Complete Free Romance Short Story I Wrote

***Revised as of 6/1. Almost good copy to send out. Paragraphs are not indented on this copy, but on file copy they are.***

Lovers or Enemies

The slap he just received across his face stung and he could feel it getting red hot. He knew he deserved that slap and much more. Randy knew he had messed up totally. He never meant for things to end up like this. He loved Melinda deeply, always had, always will. Now things would never be the same again.

     “Don't you have anything else to say for yourself?” Melinda asked. “Just, 'oh, I slept with another woman'? She sat down on the bed, put her head into hands and started to cry. Up till now, everything had been wonderful. They had a beautiful house and two children. She was a stay at home mom, which she loved. Now, in one heartbeat all that was gone.

“I just don't know what to say. It was a few months ago and this has been driving me crazy, eating me up inside.” Randy turned away from her, couldn't bear to see her crying like that, knowing he was the one who cause the pain. “If didn't tell you, I feel like I would explode inside, do you understand? I didn't have to tell you at all, but I knew that wasn't fair to you either.” Almost made him sound noble, but he was far from that.

“The fact that you went out and did it at all is appalling!”, she screamed. “You have ruined our marriage, our life, everything.” She paused, “oh, my, what are the kids going to think and our families....?”

Randy turned around, his heart wretching with pain at the site of Melinda sitting there crying. “Melinda, look at me. Please.” Randy knelt down on one knee. She looked up at him, tear stains rolling down her reddened face. “I love you the same as I did yesterday, more even. My love for you has grown and grown since we married. This changes nothing.”

“Nothing! You say nothing has changed?” Melinda said “I feel as though there is a strange man in front of me whom I don't know. This is not the man I married. This is not that man that shares a bed with me at night. This is not the man whom I had children with. This man is a total stranger to me”

Randy hung his head, knowing he caused this. He was not mad at her statement but it burned him inside. He wanted everything to be right again, but how would he get there. Could he ever put things back in order again? Could he win her heart back? She was everything to him, always has been for as long as he can remember.

One night. One stupid night. Melinda and him had, had a terrible argument. He couldn't even remember what it was about. He had gone to the local bar that night and drank way too much. Normally, he hardly drank at all, but the more he drunk the farther from the argument he was. Before he knew it, a nice looking blond was sitting next to him and started a conversation. At some point he vaguely remembered her asking him to go upstairs with her to 'talk'. Well, one thing led to another, with Randy being so drunk, he lost total control of any rational thought and had sex with her. Immediately afterward he was up packing and shaking. He couldn't have believed what he had done. What will happen with his wife and his family? He dressed and went home. Melinda was already in bed sleeping. He told himself he didn't have to tell her and she would never know. Until today. The urge to confess, just too strong. He was tired of living in this agony.

“What can I do? I will do anything you say to redeem myself for what I have done.” Randy said, hoping she would say something he could cling to that said maybe, just maybe there was a way this could work out.

She shook her head, still crying, “Just get out of here. I don't want to talk to or see you.”

“Just leave?”, Randy asked, “That's it? 15 years of marriage down the tubes because I screwed up one time. And let me point out again, that I could have kept this from you, and things would have been fine. I know that me telling you the truth now doesn't make up for what I did, but it should count for something.”

“Just leave.” She said, “ I don't care where you go, or what you do, just leave now. If there is anything you want or need have Louie give me a call.” She turned toward the bathroom. “I'm going to take a shower, please don't be here when I get done.”

Randy stood in the middle of their room. He had kind of thought it would be this way. For right now she didn't want anything to do with him. He grabbed his suitcase, put what he needed in it and headed out the door. Hoping it wouldn't be the last time.

By the time she got out of the shower he was gone. She heard the kids getting up. The morning went along about how it usually did. She brushed aside questions about where Daddy was. They didn't have to know this very second they would find out soon enough. She had no idea what she was suppose to do now. She picked up the phone to call her best friend Carl. After 2 rings Carl picked up, “Hello?”

“Hi Carl, how are you doing?” Melinda said

“What is wrong with you, Melinda?”

She started sobbing all over again. “Randy slept with another woman. I kicked him out and I have no idea what to do.”

All sorts of things were flying through Carl's head, “When did this happen? When did he tell you? Do you want to meet somewhere where we can talk?”

Wiping her nose and tears off her face, “He told me this morning but apparently this happened once a few months ago. It was one night when we had the hugest argument. He had gone out for awhile that night, I was asleep when he came home. After today's argument I told him to get out and not come back. I didn't know what else to do.”

Carl sighed, “Wow. Listen, why don't you get dressed and meet me over at Michaels' in about an hour? We'll have an early lunch. OK?

“OK,” Melinda said,“In about an hour. Thank you Carl for being there for me. I really needed a good friend.”

“Oh, one hour. Bye”

“Bye”

Melinda walked into Michael's, looking around for Carl. She finally spotted him in a corner booth, out of the way. He probably picked that one on purpose so they could talk privately. She walked over the table and said, “Hi”

He jumped a little, “You surprised me. I was just daydreaming. Please sit down and we'll order.”

She slid into the booth next to him. He smelled surprisingly good today. Not that he ever smelled bad but she just seemed to notice the nice aroma today. They ordered their food and then got into the meat of the conversation.

“So, “ Carl started, “you said some stuff on the phone but exactly what happened?”

Melinda looked down, still noticeably upset, “Well, all I know is that Randy said he needed to tell me something. Something really bad but I was to wait and think about it a minute before I said anything. I agreed. I never thought he would ever say those words to me. He told me had been with another woman. It was some months ago and his plan had been to never tell me." Melinda still didn't know if that was good or bad. She never wanted him to lie to her but then she didn't want her whole life turned upside down either. “I just saw red, I slapped him hard across the face. He just stood there. I told him to get out, and I never wanted to see him again.”

That was a lot for Carl to absorb. He had known both Randy and Melinda for years. Although Melinda and him always seemed to hit it off better than Randy and him. He never thought Randy was capable of cheating on his wife. He wondered what had happened that night to make Randy so something so rash. “I'm sure it's not important, but did he give you a reason?” Carl asked.

“He had said it was the night of that fight. Something about getting really drunk and then that awful woman.” Melinda said 'woman' like it was the foulist word in the English language. You could almost see the anger coming from Melinda.

Carl, though it his job to calm her down, was thinking about other things. Something creeped into Carl's mind. NO NO That would be so wrong. He know Randy for years. But, Melinda was gorgeous and if it was true she wanted nothing more to do with Randy, well, that made her back on the market. OK, long stretch there, but hey, he thought, you never know.

“Melinda, I am so sorry. I can't imagine anything that would make Randy do something to hurt such a wonderful woman,” Carl said. He carefully put his hand on top of hers and looked her strait into her eyes.

“I'm still in shock right now. I really have no idea what I'm suppose to be doing” Melinda said, “Do I get rid of his stuff, or wait for him to come get it. What do I tell the kids? What do I tell the relatives?” Melinda started crying again.

“It's going to be OK. Just take things one at a time.” Carl moved a little closer, “Little by little things will get to be normal again. Maybe not the normal that was but a new normal.”

“I am so glad you are here for me Carl,”Melinda said. “At least I know I can talk to someone about all this.”

“You should get back home and I need to get back to work,” Carl worked for an investment group and had flexible hours. But that didn't mean he could be gone all afternoon either. “Let's meet somewhere for dinner tonight. Get a babysitter and get out of the house. How about Chinese?”

“I don't know,” Melinda said, “I haven't been out at night without Randy in years.”

“Just come out with me, “ Carl said. “We'll have a blast and you can relax and get your mind off things. Don't say no, don't make me beg.”

“Ok, I agree. Where are we meeting?” Melinda asked.

“At that little Chinese place on the corner of Market and Liberty streets.”

“See you then.” Melinda said, as she slid out of the booth and walked away.

Carl watched her go and for the first time really looked at her. She was an amazing woman, both inside and out. How in the world Randy would screw up a relationship like they had is beyond him.

Melinda decided to 'do it up right' and go all out tonight. She wore a beautiful dress she hadn't worn in years. Did her hair up off her shoulders. Put on her best jewelry. Now she was ready for a night on the town. A slight feeling of guilt ran through her. Why she should she feel guilty, she's not the one who screwed everything up. She had returned to flowers at the door, which were promptly put down the garbage disposal. A letter attached that was not read., ripped up and throw in the garbage. There were several messages on the answering machine, none listened to or kept. In her mind she was threw with Randy and couldn't possibley understand, let alone forgive him for what he had done.

The babysitter was with the kids. Melinda said, “I'm leaving now, not sure how late I will be. I will try to be home at a respectful hour.”

“OK,” the babysitter said. “You look so beautiful tonight. Have a great time.”

Carl was waiting out from of the restaurant when she got there. He looked her up and down, “Melinda, you look amazing tonight.”

It was nice to have another man look at her that way. “Thank you Carl, you look handsome as well.”

Motioning toward the door, Carl said, “Should we?”

It was a Friday night, but it wasn't too busy. They waited a few minutes for an available table.

“So, has Randy tried to reach you?” Carl asked.

“If you mean the dozen red roses, a letter and several phone calls, yes, he has”, Melinda said with almost a smile.

“And, I assume this meant nothing.” Carl said

“Well, the roses went down the garbage disposal, letter torn up and messages deleted. Yes, it meant nothing”

“Remind me never to be on your bad side.” Carl said. “Have you told anyone yet? Or are you waiting to see how thing turn out?”

“You mean, do I get back with him or not?

“Well, ya, that was it, I guess” Carl motioned the waiter to bring more drinks, this was going to be a long night.

“Right now I can't think of anything he could say or do that would change my mind. He betrayed me in a way I never thought possible,” Melinda said. You could see the pain in her face. “I can't even imagine what must have been going through his mind. I know he loves me. I don't....well...you know, withhold certain things from him. He seems happy at home, why on earth would he be with someone else?”

Carl paused a minute or two, trying to put himself in Randy's shoes. “I honestly don't know. You said you two fought that night?

“Yes, but we always had fights and makeups, all couples do. He had stormed out of the house that night and came home after I was in bed. I have no idea what happened in between.”

“Obvouisly a lot.” Carl said.

They discussed the fight for awhile and the conversation turned toward other topics from work to kids and futures. Melinda was drinking probably too much, but it didn't even seem to register with her. The time seemed to fly by and before they knew it was close to midnight. Carl had driven to the restaurant and Melinda had taken a cab.

“It's late, let me drive you home, Melinda.” Carl offered.

A little tipsy, “Ok, Carl, I guess it is getting pretty late for me to be out alone.”

“If you wait just inside the front door, I'll pull my car around and take you home.” Carl said.

On the way to her house, Melinda was thinking of the last two days and how unreal it all seemed. She never saw herself this far away, emotionally, from Randy. She was angry, hurt and confused. She kept blaming herself over and over again. Finally she said to Carl, “What did I do to make this happen? What did I do or not do to make Randy that upset to cheat on me like that? I just don't get it, no matter how long I think about it.”

Carl reached across and squeezed her hand. “Melinda, you didn't do anything wrong. It was his decision. I don't know what was going on inside his head. But, I think he's absolutely crazy for giving up you and his life. Not saying there might be a chance for reconciliation, but that's up to you and what you want.”

They traveled in silence until they got to Melinda's house. It was late, and she knew the kids had been in bed for awhile. She paused, “Do you want to come in for a little. I just hate to go in to an empty house. Do you understand?”

Carl pulled the car up out front and turned it off. He got out and was to Melinda's door before she could get out. He held it open for her as she got out. She looked at him strangely. It had been so long since someone had held a door for her. Even Randy had stopped doing those things a long time ago. Once they got inside, Melinda paid the babysitter and she left. Melinda was left standing there not quite knowing what she should do.

Carl said with a smile, “Relax, I don't bite. Just two friends sitting and talking.”

“Do you want a bear? I have some in the fridge.” Melinda said

“Sure, sounds good.”

Melinda was only gone a minute and brought back two cold bottles of beer, handing one to Carl. She held hers up and said, “Cheers.”

He lifted his, slightly clinging with hers and said, “Cheers”

“Melinda,” Carl started, “I know the last 24 hours has been so hard on you. And I want you to know I feel so bad about everything. Do you think there is anyway that you and Randy can do to work things out?”

Melinda, stared into space for a minute. “I don't know, Carl. We've always been upright and honest with each other. Now I feel like I can never trust him again.” Melinda started to cry again. “I can't imagine what could have possibley pushed him to that point. I know he was angry when he left the house, but he's done that before. He has always come home and we have always made things right. But, on that particular night, something was different. I may never know what happened.”

Carl was looking at his now empty beer bottle. Melinda said, “Let me get you another.”

“You sit still. “ Carl said, “Let me get us some more.”

As the evening continued they talked and drank, and it seemed as though Melinda was finally calming down and even enjoying talking to Carl. Melinda realized she was getting rather drunk and tried to think about how many beers she had consumed that evening. She couldn't even come to a number. A lot, she was sure.

Carl and Melinda now we're both quite drunk and laughing about things from times past. They had a long history of families, going back to their childhoods. Carl and Melinda had gone to school together, a long time before she met Randy.

All the sudden Melinda remembered again what had happened the last 24 hours and began to cry again. “I'm sorry,” she said to Carl, “All the sudden everything hits me again out of the blue.”

Carl moved next to her on the couch and put his arm over her and leaned her onto his shoulder. “It's going to be OK, one way or another. These things seem to have a way, sooner or later, to working themselves out” Melinda sobbed on his should for some time. Then she seemed to calm down some, looking up at Carl.

“Thank you for being such a good friend.” Melinda said, “I really don't know how I would have made it through the last day without out.” Being this close to Carl, was bringing up feelings she had only ever had for Randy. She felt comfortable and safe.

Carl starred into her eyes, thinking how beautiful Melinda was. She was always an amazing woman, and Carl could admit to himself he was more than a little jealous when she married Randy. Being this close to her, he was feeling some sexual tension. Must be the alcohol. He leaned in to kiss her. She didn't resist. He kissed her a little more deeply and she responded, obviously feeling the same tension he was.

All the sudden, she pulled back and said, “Oh my God, what am I doing? What are you trying to do?” She looked as if he had tried to rape her. The anger in her eyes was enough to snap Carl out of his romantic state he had been in a few minutes ago.

“Me? You didn't seem to resist if I remember correctly.” Carl said.

“I am drunk and hurting and you are trying to take advantage of the situation. Do you take me to be that stupid?” Melinda blurted out, “Leave, now! I don't want you here anymore, ever. Randy is still my husband no matter what he's done. I love him and this is not what I wanted to do.”

“But, Melinda,” Carl started, “we have been friends since childhood. I'm sorry if I overstepped my boundary. It's the mixture of the beer and how beautiful you are. I have always been in awe of your beauty. Please don't let this all end here and now.”

Melinda was even more stern, “Leave this minute or I will call the cops and have you escorted out. One way or another your leaving this instant.” She turned her back to him and headed upstairs.

She reached her bedroom and slammed the door behind herself. Glancing at the clock on the nightstand she couldn't believe the time. It was 4 am. The kids had to be up and ready for school in a few short hours. She would grab a nap now, if she could sleep at all, and then sleep while the kids were at school.

As she thought, she couldn't sleep. She just lay there in an empty bed and thought. The alcohol was wearing off and she was thinking much straiter now. She was angry at Carl for trying to take advantage of her. She would not have thought in a million years he would do something so horrible.

Oh my God, she thought to herself. Tonight could have mirrored Randy's night with that woman. Not that Randy had known the woman, but still the anger, mixed with too much alcohol, was the same scene that had occurred here tonight with Carl. And she was tempted. She kissed Carl, like she had never kissed another man except Randy. All the sudden the guilt poured into her like a raging stream. She hadn't had sex with Carl but she kissed him and was tempted to have him stay the night. Her thoughts wondered to Randy. She had to be honest with herself, even with what he did, she loved him dearly. She wondered if, just maybe, they could make things right somehow. It would take time for her anger to subside. And should she tell him about Carl? She knew the answer. Yes, she had to. If he heard it from somewhere else it would break the trust bond all over again. She finally started to drift off to sleep.

The alarm clock was exceptionally loud the next morning. Realizing that she had to get up to get the kids off to school, she dragged herself out of bed. Looking at the time, she realized she had only had a couple hours of sleep. Sleepily, she got the kids up and out the front door. Then she sat on the couch, on the couch where she had kissed Carl last night. She missed Randy. Since all the wooing that Randy tried yesterday, there had been nothing. No phone calls, nothing. This, actually worried her. Did he just decide to walk away now without even to continue to try?

The phone rang, jolting her out of her thoughts. She picked up the phone “Hello?”

“Finally, you answered the phone,” the voice of Randy came from the other end of the phone. “Please, I beg of you Melinda, talk to me. Let's have coffee somewhere. I just have to talk to you.” Randy's begging sounded so sincere. All her fears of him just walking away subsided. What to do now?

“Melinda, you still there?”

Melinda had been so lost in her own thoughts, she didn't realize there had been such a great pause. “I'm still here. Just trying to think.”

“Well, at least your talking to me today,” Randy said. “That's a step up from yesterday.”

“Did you say something about coffee?” Melinda asked.

“Yes, I did. Would you please meet me for at least that?” Randy said, hoping for a positive answer seconds seemed like hours.

“Yes, I think we should,” Melinda answered. “I just got the kids off to school. Let me get myself together and I'll be leaving shortly. Where do you want to meet?”

“How about the donut shop down the street from the house?” Randy asked.

“That sounds good. I'll be there in an hour or so.” Melinda responded.

“OK, meet you there.”

Randy had gotten to the shop early and was waiting in a booth when Melinda showed up. When she saw him, all the love came back. But, then the next thought was, he doesn't know about Carl yet and guilt overwhelmed her. She quickly went over and sat at the booth with him.

“You haven't ordered yet?” Melinda said, seeing nothing on the table.

“Nope, wanted to wait for you.”

OK, Melinda thought, points for his chivalry at least.

“What do you want and I'll go and get it?” Randy asked.

“Oh, just coffee for me please. I have a slightly sick stomach and probably couldn't handle anything yet.” Melinda said. Too much beer the night before. Actually only a few hours ago.

Randy went and got two coffees and a couple donuts for himself. “So, I want to tell you how estactic I am that you agreed to meet with me. I'm not sure what changed your heart, but I'm sure glad it did.”

She looked him straight into his eyes. She knew she couldn't lie to him or keep anything from him. Same as he felt about his affair, he just couldn't keep it from her cause of the love he had for her. Somewhat of a bitter sweet thing, this confusing thing. “Randy,” she started, “I have to tell you something before we go any further.”

Randy's stomach suddenly felt like the bottom of yet was dropping out. “What?”

“After our argument yesterday I hung out with Carl last night. He was just there to listen to me and comfort me. Totally Innocent, at least on my part.” Melinda paused. OK, just tell him, he has to know. “We came back to the house last night.” She saw the look on Randy's face. She knew just what he was thinking. “No, we didn't sleep together, not anything close to that. However, there was a kiss, a romantic kiss. I stopped it right there and demanded he leave. I am so sorry Randy.” She waited for his reply.

Randy was silent for a minute or two and then said, “Nothing more happened other than that?”

“I swear to you, nothing more happened. I told him to leave and that I never want to see him again. I told him that even after what you have done that you are still my husband and I love you dearly.”

Randy looked at her, and said, “So, you have forgiven me for my discretion?

“No, but I got a different perspective from last night. I was very drunk and hurt. I know now how it could have happened, but I am still angry and hurt that you didn't stop it before it went too far.” Melinda paused, not quite sure how to say that following part. “I was in the same position, but with someone I know and care for. It would have been easier for me to have slept with Carl then it would have for you to sleep with some stranger. I might not ever understand that.”

“And I may never be able to make it up to you.” Randy said, “But, I want a second chance. We have a beautiful life together. Obviously we both love each other very much. What can I do?”

“I'm not sure,” Melinda responded, “Maybe you should come home and we can talk. Maybe after some time I will be able to trust you again. I just want you to know it's going to take a lot of time and a lot of patience on your part. We are not going back home and just pretend none of this happened.”

“That's more than I expected or could have hoped for,” Randy said happily. “I'll take 'We'll work it out' any day over 'leave and I don't want to see you again'.”

Randy and Melinda went home and slowly put their relationship back on track. Melinda chose never to speak to Carl again. After what he had done, she just couldn't trust him. He had tried to take advantage of her and turn her further away from Randy. If he had succeeded there may never have even been a chance to work things out with Randy. They never told the kids, family or friends so the didn't have to be reminded of what happened. They went back to their normal life eventually.

THE END

FREE SHORT STORY- "LOVERS OR EMEMIES"

This is the first part of a wonderful romance short story. You may have the rest of it for free. E-Mail me and I will sent it to you, all I ask is that you let me know what you think of it. Thank you.
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Or al5766@gmail.com if link doesn't work Lovers or Enemies

     The slap he just received across his face stung and made all the blood rush to his face because he knew he deserved that slap and much more. He had messed up totally, he never meant for things to end up like this. He loved her deeply, always had, always will, but now things would never be the same again.

     “Don't you have anything else to say for yourself?” Melinda asked. “Just, 'oh, I slept with another woman'? She sat down on the bed, put her head into hands and started to cry. Up till now, everything had been wonderful. They had a beautiful house, two children. She was a stay at home mom, which she loved. Something about taking care of a house, being there when the kids got home from school, serving homemade meals every night. And, now, in one heartbeat all that was gone.

     “I just don't know what to say. It was a few months ago and this has been driving me crazy, eating me up inside.” Randy turned away from her, couldn't bear to see her crying like that, knowing he was the one who cause the pain. “If didn't tell you, I feel like I would explode inside, do you understand? I didn't have to tell you at all, but I knew that wasn't fair to you.” Almost made him sound noble, but he was far from that.

     “The fact that you went out and did it at all is appalling!”, she screamed, “You have ruined our marriage, our life, everything.” she paused, “oh, my, what are the kids going to think and our families....”

     Randy turned around, his heart wretching with pain at the site of Melinda sitting there crying. “Melinda, look at me. Please.” She looked up at him, tear stains rolling down her reddened face. “I love you the same as I did yesterday, more even. My love for you has grown and grown since we married. This changes nothing.”

     “Nothing! You say nothing has changed?” Melinda said “I feel as though there is a strange man in front of me whom I don't know. This is not the man I married. This is not that man that shares a bed with me at night. This is not the man whom I had children with. This man is a total stranger to me”

     Randy hung his head, knowing he caused this. He was not mad at her statement but it burned him inside. He wanted everything to be right again, but how would he get there. Could he ever put things back in order again? Could he win her heart back? She was everything to him, always has been for as long as he can remember.

     One night. One stupid night. Melinda and him had, had a terrible argument. He couldn't even remember what it was about. He had gone to the local bar that night and drank way too much. Normally he hardly drank at all, but the more he drunk the farther from the argument he was. Before he knew it, a nice looking blond was sitting next to him and started a conversation. At some point I vaguely remembered her asking me to go upstairs with her to 'talk'. Well, one thing led to another, with me being drunk, I lost total control of any rational thought and had sex with her. Immediately afterward I was shaking. What had I done? What will happen with his wife and his family? He dressed and went home. Melinda was already in bed sleeping. He told himself he didn't have to tell her and she would never know. Until today.

     “What can I do? I will do anything you say to redeem myself for what I have done.” Randy said, hoping she would say something he could cling to that said maybe, just maybe there was a way this could work out.

     She shook her head, still crying, “Just get out of here. I don't want to talk to or see you.”

     “Just leave?”, Randy asked, “That's it? 15 years of marriage down the tubes because I screwed up one time. And let me point out again, that I could have kept this from you, and things would have been fine. I know that me telling you the truth now doesn't make up for what I did, but it should count for something.”

     “Just leave.” She said, “ I don't care where you go, or what you do, just leave now. If there is anything you want or need have Louie give me a call and I'll work things out with him.” She turned toward the bathroom. “I'm going to take a shower, please don't be here when I get back.”

     Randy stood in the middle of their room. He had kind of thought it would be this way. For right now she didn't want anything to do with him. He grabbed his suitcase, put what he needed in it and headed out the door. Hoping it wouldn't be the last time.

CHAP 2-DEXTER & CHRIS SHOOT POOL AND DEXTER MEETS LADY FRIEND

***remember this is just a FIRST draft, just getting the story down on paper. I am choosing to blog it, to get out there. I know there are errors that will all be polished after the 2nd draft and after a professional editor looks at it. Read it for the story content***

He reached his destination fairly early, around 6:45. Chris was usually punctual on the dot, so he had some time before Chris would be there. Dexter walked into the familiar place, the bouncer at the front door nodded hello to him. Everyone one there knew who he was but none were really good friends. He always kept this wall up around himself. It wasn't that he didn't like people, he just felt he was so different from them that no one would really understand him. He never felt superior to anyone, or underneath someone.

“ Dexter!”

Dexter turned around and saw Chris standing by the door. He smiled and said, “ Actually early for once.”

“Thought I'd throw you a curve ball.” Chris laughed, “I know Danny is coming tonight and I know how you are about being around other people so I thought I'd get here early to lend moral support.”

“Not needed,” Dexter started, “ but thank you for the thought. I”m sure everything will be find tonight.” Or at least Dexter Hoped everything would be ok.

“Lets get some seats at the bar until Danny gets here.” Chris said

“I told him we'd be back in the pool room , but this is ok too”, Dexter said taking a seat. The bar tender came up to them.

Chris said, “How about two Budweiser's in a bottle? Is that ok with you Dexter?”

Dexter was a little preoccupied with something further down the bar, and mumbled , “Sure, what ever. Sounds good.”

Christ followed Dexter's stare down the bar. To Chris's surprise there was a very nice looking blond woman sitting there. Not that Dexter wasn't like any other red blooded American guy, but he wasn't known for his dating skills. Even in high school, there was the date here and there but nothing very serious. And Dexter seemed to be quite fine with that. “Dexter,” Chris started, “are you actually staring at that amazing blond down there at the end of the bar?”

Dexter shook himself, as if he was in a trance, “Me? You know better.”

“Yes, I know you better than you know yourself most days. You are attracted to her. I think that is wonderful!”

“I don't know,” Dexter said, “just something about her”

Danny had come in at that moment and saw Dexter and Chris at the bar. Coming over he said, “Dexter..Chris, how's the night going so far? Chris it's been a long time, you look like life is treating you well.”

Chris shook Danny's hand, “Life's been good, following in my father's footsteps. I'm a junior partner in my law firm. Nice house, nice car. Pretty much enjoying life. And you? Dexter tells me your a Sargent at the police department.?”

“Yes, I am” Danny said, “I guess we're all grown up now.” laughing , “I'm glad I was able to reconnect with you two. Very fond high school memories.”

Chris stood up, “Let's head back to the pool room to see if you still can hold your own Danny” Chris led the way back to the pool room. The band was setting up. Sometimes they had good bands come through and some bad, but you couldn't hear very much from the pool room anyway, which where they spent most of their time

There was a bar back there as well, so they didn't have to fight their way back through the crowd to get a few drinks. Dexter and Chris had finished their 1^st so Chris asked Danny, “Do you want something from the bar? I'm getting Dexter and me something.”

“Sure, grab me a long island ice tea.” Danny said, handing Chris a ten dollar bill.

Dexter grabbed a pool stick from the rack on the wall. He headed for the nearest table and set the balls up. “You want to play first, Danny?”

“Sure, “ Danny answered, “but remember I might be a little rusty.”
During the course of the night, they switched off playing pool. They had about the same skill level so it was a challenging night. Dexter always loved a good challenge.

All the sudden Dexter stopped in his tracks and just stared. The blond woman from the bar had just come into the room and sat down at the bar there. Danny and Chris were both wondering what was going on, when Chris laughed, “Dexter has had his sites on that woman all night long”

Danny looked confused, “Dexter was never a ladies man in school. Is he actually actively dating now?”

“Nope, “ Chris said, “this is the first time I've seen him actually staring at a woman. I mean, she is beautiful and see why he's staring. Just really weird behavior for him”

“Dexter...” Chris said, “wanna get your mind back on the game,” No response. Chris yanked on Dexter's blazer. Dexter turned around to him with a questioning look on his face. “I've been trying to get your attention back on the game. But, I'm not tall, blond and beautiful so I understand.”

Dexter, sill looking confused said, “What? I didn't hear you say anything about the game”

“Why don't you just go up and ask her out, if your that interested. She seems to be alone.” Chris suggested.

“I agree with Chris”, Danny chimed in, “what could it hurt. You won't know unless you try.”

“I just can't, that's all.” Dexter said. And the way it came out, was, I don't want to talk about this anymore. Chris and Danny respected Dexter's place.

The pool playing continued and the blond kept sitting at the bar watching them. Dexter excused himself to the bathroom. Chris and Danny looked at each other.

“Could we, should we?”, Chris asked

Oh, hell, why not, what's the worst that can happen., This way , if he gets turned down he doesn't have to know about it. And if he doesn't, well, he needs a little kick the pants to get him out there on the dating scene.”

“OK,” Chris said, “lets give this a shot”

Chris walked up to the woman at the bar and said, “Hi, how are you tonight?”

She smiled and answered, “I'm doing really good. Looks like you and your friends are pretty good pool shooters. Been sitting here watching you.”

Chris nodded, “We kind of saw you watching us. Liston I'm going to ask this straight out and you can say no or yes. No hard feelings either way. My friend, Dexter, the one who went to use the bathroom has been looking at you all night. He's not a ladies man and if he's looking at you that means something.” Chris sighed before asking the next question, “would you be adverse to him taking you out for dinner some night?” Ok, he'd asked, hoping Dexter wouldn't hate him for doing this.

The woman at the bar, look hard at Chris before she answered, “I've been watching him too, hoping I would get his interest and he'd talk to me. I got the impression he wasn't interested”

“No ma'am, “ Chris said, “he's very interested. Just doesn't have the guts to come and ask himself.” Just then Chris saw Dexter returning from the bathroom. When Dexter caught Chris's eye and saw who he was with, he had a sinking feeling in his stomach. Oh, God what has Chris done now. Chris motioned for him to come over.

“I'm sorry,” Chris said to the woman, “I haven't even got your name yet. Mine is Chris.”

“My name is Stacy”

Dexter came over to Chris. Chris said, “Dexter I'd like you to meet Stacy.”

Stacy said, “Nice to meet you Dexter. You sure play a mean game of pool. I've been watching”

Chris thought Dexter was going to pass out right then and there on the floor. Chris thought, come on Dexter you can do this.

After a few minutes, Dexter said, “You like pool?”

“I like pool when there is a handsome man playing pool.” Stacy flirted with Dexter.

Dexter, looked around sincerely, not like most people do to kid around “Me?”

“Yes you, Dexter.” Stacy said, “Chris here has said perhaps we can get together sometime for dinner, if you would like?”

Dexter, even though flattered and somewhat dumbstruck, reached out with his 6^th sense feelings. He didn't feel anything wrong about this woman, as far as he could tell she was the real thing. He stood there, not speaking, everyone waiting for a reply. Shortly the words slowly came out of his mouth, “That sounds like an awesome idea”

Stacy was writing on the bar napkin, and handed it to Dexter. “Here's my number, call me and we'll together soon. I have to go now, but I hope to hear from you soon.” She hoped off the bar stool, “You all have a great night” and headed out the door.

Dexter sat down on one of the bar stools. Chris said, “You ok there dexter, you look a little white?”

“I'm ok. Why would she find me attractive with all these other men here to choose from, yourself included Chris?”

Danny came over, “Dexter, consider yourself lucky. She looks like a wonderful woman and she likes you. I'm happy for you and I think you'll have a marvelous time out with her.”

CHAP 2-SUSPENSE GROWS, DEXTER TAKES A STEP AHEAD DESPITE HIS FEARS

***Please remember that his is my first draft of this novel, and it will go through several revisions until the final version is ready for publication. I am posting, as I go, to let people know I'm here and I do have a talent for writing. My hope is by the time I'm done, I will have an agent willing to pitch my book to some publishing companies on my behalf. And, if you are a first time reader, the first blog is the beginning. Thanks for looking***

Sometime around dawn Dexter arose to start his morning routine. So comfortable he was with his life, everything was exactly the same every day. His mind wandered to yesterday's murder again. That probably was the most fun, although it seemed bad at some one Else's expense, he had in years. The mystery, however small it was, got his creative juices flowing. He felt young again, even though he was only in his mid thirties. After the morning routine, he went downstairs and waited for Mrs. Houser to show up. She always stopped in around mid morning to say Hi. Or at least that's what she says, Dexter thought, smiling. Her real motive was to make sure Dexter didn't starve or die among all the clutter in his house. They both knew it, but, it was something that they just didn't talk about.
Dexter took at look outside at Mr. Peabody's house. There was still crime scene tape up and police looking for more clues. Obviously they hadn't found the killer yet. Dexter was still convinced it was a worker that Mr. Peabody worked with. Well, not really his problem, I guess. I'm sure Danny is on top of it. Danny! He all but forgot about calling him and asking him out tonight with Chris and himself. Dexter pulled Danny's card from his wallet. He sighed, unsure if this is what he wanted to do and not something Chris had just talked him into. Perhaps a little of both. It was nice talking to Danny again.
Dexer picked up phone and dialed the number. Danny picked up on the other side. "Detective Johnson speaking. How can I help you?"
"Danny, it's me, Dexter. How are you doing this morning?"
You could hear the surprise in Danny's voice as he said, "I'm doing pretty good. Still struggling with this murder from yesterday. You would have thought it would be easy, especially with the button clue we have. Thanks to you. Everyone seems to have an alibi. But, not your problem. What's up with you?"
Dexter paused and then said, "You remember my  cousin Chris, right?"
"Yes"
"Well we normally go out, have a few beers and shoot pool a few times a month. We were planning on going out tonight and wondered if you would care to come out with us?" There he had said it. One step in the right direction, Dexter thought.
"Actually, that sounds like a of fun. And it would be really nice to see Chris again. Where and when?"
"It's downtown, Mezza Luna. Have you heard of it?"
"Yep", Danny said laughing, "Have pulled more than one drunk out of there."
Dexter smiled, "OK, we get there around 7:00 before the major crowd sets in. The pool tables are at the back. Even with all the people there, I really enjoy spending time with Chris."
"Sounds great to me, Dexter, I'll see you there around 7 tonight. Time to get back to work"
"OK, Danny see you tonight. Bye"
"Bye"
Just then there was a knock at the door. Dexter didn't even have to look, he not only knew because of the time it , but he 'felt'her. Dexter had what most people might call a 6th sense. But, with Dexter, it was beyond that. He was well read on what some people would call horse hockey or worse. However, Dexter knew what he read was true. He had witnessed things over and over again to prove out his theories. Yes, there were ghosts, or a better name would be spirits. He was able to pick up things from other people. Not mind reading, not even clear thought but he could read there emotions. That combined with his fantastic talent for seeing things other didn't, it made look smarter than he felt most days. He had known about this things from his teenage years forward and now he didn't even think about it. He just used it automatically. Mrs. Houser, for instance, he could tell it was her and tell she was in a good mood ever before he got to the door. The sensation was stronger with people he knew better.
Opening the door, Dexter smiled, "Good morning, Mrs Houser. How are you today?"
"Except for the arthritis kicking in worse this morning I'm doing good. Must going to rain later, always gets worse then."
"Tell ya what," Dexter said, "Let me cook you breakfast instead."
Mrs. Houser took a long look at him, so used to cooking breakfast herself, but maybe it would be nice to have someone else do it instead. "That would be wonderful Dexter"
Dexter headed to the kitchen, and Mrs. Houser took a seat at the table. "So," Dexter started, Ï called Danny this morning. My friend from the police yesterday.
"I remember"
"I did what you and Chris said I should do. I asked him out tonight to shoot pool with Chris and myself" Dexter said.
Mrs. Houser, smiled, and asked, "And his response?"
"He said he'd be happy to meat up with us"
"See, I told you so." , Mrs, Houser said, "You don't have to be the one waiting around for people to call and get hold of you. I bet he was happy you called. Now, if I can just get you to approach women the same way." Mrs. Houser sighed.
Dexter got the dishes down and set the table. He divided the eggs and sausage he had made for breakfast. He grabbed the orange juice from the fridge and sat down with Mrs. Houser.
"Probably not as good as yours." Dexter said, "But, I thought for once you deserved a break. You do so much for me around here."
"I do the things I do out of caring and love Dexter. I have been in yours and your families life a long time now. I still remember you as a baby and a young child. You were brilliant even then. Gave me a run for my money for sure." Mrs. Houser said, thinking fondling of her previous position of Nanny for Dexter and Chris. She retired when they were grown, but always checked on Dexter. Believing he would be a total recluse if she didn't visit on a regular basis. At lease Chris gets him out as well too.
After breakfast, Dexter cleaned up the dishes quickly. He was thinking of going to the park to read some today. But, Mrs Houser had said it probably was going to rain and was surprisingly accurate. Mrs. Houser had already gotten up and started picking things up around the house. Dexter settled down in his favorite chair, grabbed his book and started from where he had left off yesterday.
Before Dexter knew it was time to get up and start getting ready to out. Dexter would just drown himself in a book and get lost for hours. Normally he just throw on whatever and go. Tonight was different, tonight Danny would be there. And even though Dexter despised himself for comparing himself to anyone, he found himself comparing his life to Danny's life. Feeling that he came up so short. He kept reminding himself that he was happy with his life the way it is. He quickly threw on something a little nicer than usual and headed out the door.

Dexter Hears From His Cousin Christopher Chap 1 Pt 7

"Hi Chris," Dexter said, "how are you doing? We had an uproar over here this afternoon."

There was a pause and then Chris said, "Nothing much knew with me. What happened over there?"

"To make a long story as short as possible, " Dexter started, "one of my neighbors was murdered today. You remember Mr. Peabody who lives across the street? The one no one really likes?"

"Yep, I remember him. Kind of hard guy to forget"

"Well, I was reading and heard gun shots. By the time I got out the murderer was gone and there was just the body laying in mud in his front yard."

"Let me guess, " Chris asked, already knowing the answer, "You had to check out the crime scene?"

Dexter chuckled,"You do know me well, don't you? Yes, I went and poked around. You'll never believe who I ran into there."

"Who?"

"My old friend from High School, Danny Johnson. He's now a detective on the police force. He let me into the crime scene for a closer look." Dexters voice had a hint of excitement in it.

"I remember him."  Chris said, "And, I remember correctly he was one of the few people you every hung around with. Too bad you two lost touch with each other after High School. Maybe this was fate that brought you back together. We should ask him out on one of our nights out."

Dexter hesitated, again, afraid to put himself out into a situation outside his comfort zone, "We did talk about getting together something. But, Chris, you know how that goes. People always say they will do something and never do."

"Then you have to make it happen."

Dexter laughed, "I guess I'm suppose to do this. Mrs. Houser was saying the same thing.

At the mention of her name, Mrs Houser stopped what she was doing and looked toward Dexter with a questioning look. He put his finger up, as if to say, hold on a second and I'll explain.

"You want to go out tomorrow night?" Chris asked, "We'll just hit the pool room, grab something to eat and some drinks. Nice causal night. See if Danny can join us. I'd love to see him again as well."

Dexter sighed, starting to dread the night already, "OK, I'll give him a call and see if he can make it. I'll let you know tonight or tomorrow. Around what time?"

"Let's make it around 7. Is that ok for you?"

"That will work.", Dexter said, thinking, I have no life, anytime would have worked just fine. Till he saw his old friend today he was fine and content. All the sudden he wasnquestioning his whole life. He knew that trying to measure your life up against another's life can only bring disaster. And, quite often depression and self doubt. Wish is where Dexter found himself this night. "I'll talk to you soon, Chris. Bye"

"Have a good night Dexter and I'll see ya tomorrow. Bye", Chris said hanging up the phone.

Mrs Houser was still sitting there with this questioning look on her face. Dexter looked at her and almost laughed. "Chris says I should invite Danny out soon. I was explaining to him how people don't ever follow through and he said that I need to make this happen. Same thing you said."

"See, I told you,"Mrs Houser said, "you need to get yourself out of here more and make some more friends. Chris is a fine friend but it wouldn't hurt to have a few more, to be more well rounded."

"We shall see.", Dexter said. "It's been a wonderful evening Mrs Houser." He took a look around and while he was on the phone with Chris she had cleaned up more than half the apartment. "And thank you for your help, even though I can never find anything after you clean. "Dexter smiled. "Let me see you to the door and I will look forward to seeing you tomorrow before my night out."

Mrs. Houser gathered her coat and grocery bags up. "You will do fine Dexter. Just be yourself. After all, that's what I love you for."

After seeing Mrs. Houser out, Dexter picked up the book he had been reading when he had heard the shots from outside. He finally put it down. He thoughts were racing on other things. He, all the sudden, had so many questions without answers. He knew that Mrs. Houser and Chris were both only looking out for his best interest, but he still hesitated. Going out with Danny was way beyond his comfort level. It didn't bother him to have the crowds around him at the pool hall, he just blocked them out. And he, most importantly, didn't have to talk to them. Danny was different, he would have to make conversation. Conversation with Chris was so easy, they had practically grown up as brothers. Chris had always been in his life.

Dexter got some Earl Grey tea and headed for the bedroom. Finally relaxing some. He picked the book back up and read till he fell into a peaceful sleep.