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Title: The Miami Waterfront
Description: Restaurants, Nightclubs and Shopping


Miss Sofie - October 10, 2010 10:03 PM (GMT)
The Miami Waterfront

Heath - October 10, 2010 10:28 PM (GMT)
Every street the cab turned onto, Heath recognized and was smiling at the memories he'd had at every location. It made him miss Florida something awful; wandering if leaving was the best choice. But when he looked over at Jillian, it was the best because he met her and she brought him back to the Heath many loved.

He took her hand and kissed it numerous times. "When I first entered the military and was stationed here in Florida, my pals and I used to come here and just have great times. Sometimes we got in trouble but those were good times. All these weeks I've been coming to Florida and I hadn't enjoyed any of this. Thank you baby. You're the best, you really are. You have no idea how much this means to me."

Jillian - October 10, 2010 10:30 PM (GMT)
She laughed as he bestowed kisses upon her hand. It was extremely clear that she had made the right choice in bringing him to Florida for his birthday. "You're welcome but this isn't even the best part so don't go wasting all those sweet words just yet."


Heath - October 10, 2010 10:38 PM (GMT)
"I'll just come up with some better ones later. You can have those sweet words for now," he brushed off happily, opening the window and just smelling the ocean around him. They were close to the waterfront; he knew that much.

"There's a great sports bar around here. It's called Rivals. They have great food and on game days, it's really bumping; packed to the rim. They even have a great deck. Me and the guys used to pick up chicks all the time ... well before I was married."

Jillian - October 10, 2010 10:41 PM (GMT)
She rolled her eyes, laughing softly. His joy over something so simple was adorable and she was glad they'd chosen this area. "Maybe we'll hit it up while we're here but I'll have to ask you to refrain from picking up any women." The taxi slowly came to a stop in front of a beautifully decorated restaurant. The back portion overlooked the ocean and the table they'd reserved outside on the deck would provide the perfect view and an amazing atmosphere.

Heath - October 10, 2010 10:47 PM (GMT)
The restaurant they stopped at was Rivals. How the heck did she know that? How did she do this? Nathan. That boy was in so much trouble when they got back to Metropolis. All the time they spent together, he was surely spilling all the dirt on him.

"I'm not going to even ask how you knew about this place. I don't think I should even be shocked anymore. Seriously, you've done your homework and well."

Heath helped her out of the cab and before she could hand him the money, he paid and shut the door.

"This place brings back great memories. Man ... I was so young when I first came here. I was twenty, young and living life to the very fullest."

Jillian - October 10, 2010 10:54 PM (GMT)
"You really shouldn't. I mean it should be pretty clear now that I'm a psychic magician. I'm not sure why it's taking you so long to understand that. Just gracefully accept it and move on." She opened her mouth to protest his paying for the cab but he was already talking again, refusing to allow her even a second to get her argument in.

She just shook her head at him and led the way inside, giving her name at the podium and taking his hand as they followed the woman through the restaurant and out through a sliding glass door. She grinned when she saw that Jackie and the few of the others had already made it and were seated.

Heath - October 10, 2010 11:03 PM (GMT)
"Happy Birthday Sarge," cheered Jackie, standing up to greet him while everyone stood up as well to join her cheers.

"Damn, you did it again," he chuckled deeply, receiving Jackie into his arms and hugging her tightly. "Thanks Jackie. It's so nice to know you were included in the plotting as well."

"Little ole me. I'm innocent," she swore, allowing the guys to greet him with handshakes.

"Hey Lieutenant. Looking fly," said Kevin, walking over to Jillian and embracing her tightly. "It's good to see you again."

"Yes, it's good to see you again although talking on the phone has been a blast," said Jackie, pushing Kevin out the way to hug Jillian as well.

"Sarge, she's taking good care of you. Good for you." Kevin handed Heath a beer immediately.

"Oh man, yes, a beer. I've been wanting this for hours. Is this the house ale?" He took a sip.

"Did we drink anything else?" chuckled Kevin.

Jillian - October 10, 2010 11:10 PM (GMT)
Jillian stuck her tongue out at Heath as she greeted everyone with hugs. It was honestly good to see them again. She and Jackie had grown close through their phone conversations in planning everything out. "It's good to see you guys too. You all roped me in at the wedding. I'm stuck with you now."

She smiled when she heard Kevin's words. She would never admit it but it warmed her to know that his students approved of her for him.

Heath - October 10, 2010 11:19 PM (GMT)
"So how was the party Heath? Jay was telling me all about the plans she and Nathan came up with. I couldn't wait to here about it. Did you bring pictures Jay? I want to see Sarge all dressed up again," teased Jackie, pulling out her camera and taking random pictures.

"Sorry I'm late. I got held up at a class," said Paul, rushing to the table and giving Heath a pound.

"And I got stuck at the airport," said Ernie, who made a special trip back to Florida just for the dinner Jillian arranged. "But it seems we're all together."

Paul walked over to Jackie and kissed her lips softly.

"Uh, since when did that happen?" asked Heath, gazing at his two students and watching in amazement. The loud, boisterous, fun Jackie with quiet, studious Paul. That was quite a match.

"Since Paul said he loved me more than a friend. See," she said, holding out her hand and showcasing the ring on her finger. "He proposed to me yesterday."

Paul seemed to blush as he took his seat.

"Congratulations," they all wished him.

"I've only been away for a few weeks and things are already changing," said Ernie, sitting down at the table.

"How's Metropolis Ernie?" asked Kevin, finishing off his beer and flagging down the waitress.

"Interesting. That's all I have to say," he smiled. "But so far, I love it. A lot of good things are coming my way and I'm totally excited. Plus, it's just as beautiful over there as here. And the woman ... that's all I have to say."

The guys began to laugh all together. Heath was extremely happy to be around his students again. They were his own little family crew.

Jillian - October 10, 2010 11:27 PM (GMT)
She reached into her purse and pulled out a small package of pictures, handing them to Jackie. "That's only about half of them. Between his mom and the professional, there's more than I know what to do with."

Her eyes widened when she took in the ring Jackie displayed so proudly, "Well look at you! Congratulations you two. You make a cute couple." She still wasn't one hundred percent sure how she felt when it came to marriage. She'd adamantly rejected the notion before, strictly because of her past but as much as she hated to admit it, she was softening to the idea.

"I'm glad you like it," she told Ernie smiling. She hadn't seen too much of the man outside of the missions they ran together but she figured that would be changing soon. Their team was becoming extremely tight knit.

Heath - October 10, 2010 11:38 PM (GMT)
"Thank you. My Paulie is so sweet. He takes really good care of me," said Jackie, taking his face in her hands and kissing him softly. She let him go when Jillian handed her the pictures and she scooted over to her to observe together.

Paul then moved closer to the guys, just as the waitress dropped off drinks and beers. "Just let me know when you're ready to order."

"Just keep the drinks coming." Kevin picked up the beer. "Oh yeah, give us one of those appetizer dishes that come with wings and all those other things."

"No problem. I'll bring them out as soon as possible."

"OH MY GAWD. You wore that dress!" squealed Jackie, holding the picture of her and Heath standing together. "It's amazing. You look so good in it. I'm a little jealous. I have a little more curves than that. I couldn't have pull that off."

"Let me see that dress," said Kevin, snatching the picture out of Jackie's hand.

"DAMN!"

All the guys peered at the picture and then up at Jillian. She looked incredibly different; maybe it was all the skin.

"That's enough," said Heath taking the picture away from them and handing it back to Jillian. "She's my girl, so stop looking. Right baby ..." Heath winked in Jillian's direction. He was relaxed on his home turf and the night was going to be great. He felt it.

"So damn nosy Kevin. And that's right Sarge, claim your girl," she said, rolling her eyes heavily in Kevin's direction.

Jillian - October 10, 2010 11:52 PM (GMT)
Jillian couldn't control it. She flushed a light pink and tried to wave away all the attention. "It was just a dress. And it was only one night. Why do you think I got the pictures. No one's ever going to see that dress again. Can you imagine how crazy things will get on the base if the guys get a good look at that? I don't even want to think about it getting back to my brothers."

She smiled and bit her lip as she averted her eyes at Heath's claim. It was taking some getting used to but it still made her feel warm inside.

Heath - October 11, 2010 12:23 AM (GMT)
"Trust me, that dress did a lot to me that night," admitted Heath quietly amongst the guys but Jackie's eyebrows rose in curiosity. "I had never been speechless but I was that night. I didn't know how to act."

Kevin made a howling noise and all of them cracked up again. "That dress would be forbidden in most states Jay. But I have to say, no offense Sarge, you're totally a fox especially in that dress."

"Thank you Kev and that's enough. No more comments about that dress," he laughed, taking Jillian's hand and kissing the back of it.

"Yeah man, respect," said Ernie, casting a glance across the table at her. "I have to keep yesterday a secret from the rest of the team; including the dress. But don't worry Lt. I have your back."

"Oh yeah, I meant to tell you Congrats on Special Ops Ernie."

"Yes, I didn't get a chance to tell you either Ernie. Congratulations," said Heath, as they all tapped their beer bottles together. "I'm proud of your great accomplishments. We have a lot to celebrate tonight. Jackie and Pauls engagement ..."

"Your birthday ..." interjected Kevin.

"Plus you and Jay's promotion to Special Ops." Although he wasn't particularly fond of her taking that option, Heath was still proud she was doing what she wanted to do.

"Oh snap, you too. So let's get a toast going around." He stood up and waited for everyone else to stand. "In honor of this great night, I want to make a toast to all of us for our achievements and future endeavors. Salute!"

Jillian - October 11, 2010 12:29 AM (GMT)
Jillian laughed at Kevin's antics. She couldn't very well claim it wasn't that bad because they'd seen it with their own eyes. She could only hope that the pictures wouldn't be seen by anyone on the base. Honestly, it wouldn't be a terrible thing but it would shake the foundation she'd built on. They'd see the fun, wild Jillian that hadn't come out too often. It would throw them for a loop, that was for sure.

She flashed a smile at Ernie. "I appreciate it. You see how protective their growing." It was to be expected. With a team that small and so consistently in danger, it would be impossible not to form their own isolated little family.

She rose with the others and couldn't help but smile as they toasted to each other. It seemed she was finding yet another family to fit into.

Heath - October 11, 2010 12:40 AM (GMT)
Ernie knew how special Jillian was to Heath and he'd do anything and everything to ensure their safety, especially hers. It was dangerous but the thrill of being out their in rescue along with his comrades was exactly what he wanted to be doing with his life. Metropolis was offering more than he could have imagined. He owes a lot of thanks to Heath for pulling some strings and expediting his transfer. He owed the man a lot more and watching out for Jillian was no favor Heath would ever have to ask for. He was automatically doing it.

"To my great friends and for the most wonderful, beautiful woman I've ever met," said Heath, placing his arm around her waist. "I wish you all well but I know this isn't the last of our get togethers. You are all apart of me and my family. If you need me, I'm always there. When the world turned their back on you, I didn't and I can't imagine myself ever doing it. I love you all for always be supportive and being my backbone when I need strength. Salute."

Their glasses clinked again and Jackie wiped the tear from her eye. "Sarge, I love you too! This is the greatest group of friends I've ever had. I hate the fact we're so far from each other now but so happy because we're all finding what we deserve. And to Jillian, thanks to you mostly for being the coolest chick ever and giving us the chance to celebrate Sarge's birthday with him. Whooo!!"


Jillian - October 11, 2010 12:47 AM (GMT)
"Would you guys knock it off?" Jillian demanded blushing violently. The emotion was running thick among them and she didn't, under any circumstances, want to shed any tears. If they kept it up,however, she might be in trouble. It didn't help that the words were so obviously heartfelt.

If she wasn't careful, she'd let them turn her into a softie.

Heath - October 11, 2010 12:59 AM (GMT)
"She's right. We're acting like a bunch of emotional punks right now. Let's stop with all the blubbering and have fun," chimed in Kevin as he sat down with a smile

"We were having a moment for Sarge, dufus. Ugh ... I can't believe we're somehow friends," scoffed Jackie in teasing before resting a hand on Paul's shoulder and giving him a kiss on the cheek.

"So when's the wedding?" asked Heath who was curious because knowing Jackie, everything was planned the next day.

"We haven't set a date yet. I want Paul to graduate without having to stress about the wedding and stuff. Plus, I've been taking nursing classes to get my license to become a nurse practitioner. We're just going to take the time to finish what we need to before a big commitment like that."

Paul nodded with a smile on his face.

"That's good. I'm glad you're taking your time." Heath had nothing else to say about marriage. He didn't want to even get into that topic at all.

"Plus it gives Paul a chance to change his mind," joked Kevin who was swatted on the arm by Jackie.

"Never. She's perfect," Paul responded, kissing her hand.

"Do we need another round of beers?" asked the waitress returning with the tower of appetizers and snacks.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 01:04 AM (GMT)
Jillian propped her chin on her hands as she took Paul and Jackie in. The two seemed genuinely happy and they understood each other. If she allowed herself to, she could remember what that was like. She could remember finishing each other's sentences, anticipating each other's needs, communicating without speaking a word....

She suddenly pushed away from the table and stood. She forced a small smile when they turned their attention to her. "Be right back," she promised lightly and made for the bathroom to compose herself. She had no idea where the thoughts or memories had come from and the suddenness of them had thrown her off balance.

Heath - October 11, 2010 01:12 AM (GMT)
Heath had felt the twinge in the air when Jillian seemed to snap out of her thoughts and for some reason felt there was something wrong. He had to fight the urge to go after her because he would and was ready too. However, Jackie was already standing up, slinging her purse over her shoulder.

"I'll be right back too," said Jackie, patting Heath on his shoulder while he attempted to engage himself back in the conversation.

Jackie walked into the bathroom and stood in front of the mirror, fixing the light make-up she wore.

"So anything been happening on the base?" asked Heath.

Ernie and Paul shrugged. "There's a lot of transfer of command officers. But besides new recruits, nothing. It's kind of lame here. I was thinking about transferring back up North to be with the family but it's just a thought," answered Kevin.

"I heard something today," said Paul, holding onto his beer. "Seems as though Gary had his transfer overturned. He's coming back."

Heath just pressed his lips together before speaking. "I'm glad I won't be around for that."

Jillian - October 11, 2010 01:17 AM (GMT)
Jillian was splashing cold water on her face and didn't notice Jackie's entrance. It had been years since she let herself think about any of it. Think about him. Aaron. If she closed her eyes she could see his beautiful hazel eyes and the ruffled black hair that always looked like he'd just rolled out of bed. She could see the smirk she'd loved so much, one corner of his mouth inching up as he smiled down at her.

It was like a flood once she allowed herself to remember one simple thing. Aaron had been the only bright spot in her world for a long time and in the end, even that had given way to darkness. She shuttered and splashed more water on her face. She wasn't going down that road. Not tonight.

Heath - October 11, 2010 01:26 AM (GMT)
"Hey girl, are you going to be alright?" asked Jackie, pulling out paper towels from the dispenser and holding it out to Jillian. "What's wrong? Do you want to talk about it? I'm a great listener." Jackie gave her an affectionate expression as she walked closer to Jillian.

"I'd beat his ass if I saw him," said Kevin with much hatred. "I hate that punk. Not only was he a messed up friend but he betrayed all of our trusts. A couple of months back, we got into it about ... stuff." Kevin didn't want to mention how he almost fought Gary because he was flaunting Lacey around the base like nothing. "Since unfortunately, he was superior to me at the time, I got into deep trouble with Commander Monroe."

"Oh yeah, I remember that," said Ernie, because it happened right before he left.

"What stuff did you get into?" asked Heath curiously.

"You don't want to know man. It's not cool, let's just put it this way. I'm not bringing that up tonight. We're going to have a good time tonight."

Heath agreed especially because he had a feeling it had all to do with Lacey and Gary.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 01:34 AM (GMT)
Jillian laughed but there was no humor in the sound. How would she even begin to tell that story? There was so much behind all of he memories that were rushing to the surface that it would be impossible to give Jackie a condensed version even if she wanted to.

She accepted the paper towels and gave the other woman a weak smile. "I'm fine. Just thought about some old times. Caught me off guard is all."

Heath - October 11, 2010 01:39 AM (GMT)
"I kinda understand where you're coming from. There's just a lot of emotion in the air and getting caught up in it is so easy. It's okay girl. Life is good, right?" she asked without waiting for an answer. "One this is apparent to me though, you look so much happier than the last time. And not saying you weren't happy before but you seem to be glowing. Does it have anything to do with Sarge?"

Jackie smiled. "...because I definitely see the change in Sarge and the way he looks at you chokes me all up. It's such a beautiful thing whatever you two have." She paused. "Are you two dating or something?"

The guys continued to catch up and had already begun the battle of the shots. Heath and Kevin were neck in neck with four while Ernie lagged behind with three and Paul, two.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 01:42 AM (GMT)
Jillian laughed, knowing there was no way she was going to be able to dodge this conversation with Jackie. "We're not really dating...his parents think we are, thanks to Nathan, but we're really just...enjoying each other's company." She absolutely refused to tell Jackie about Heath's confession of love. She'd never hear the end of it if she did. "We shouldn't keep the guys waiting," she added inching toward the door.

Heath - October 11, 2010 01:45 AM (GMT)
Jackie eyed her suspiciously. She didn't know Jillian enough to be able to read her but there seemed more to the story or so she hoped. She really thought that by now they'd progressed to at least dating. But again, she was sure Heath wasn't ready to jump into anything until the divorce was finally and he could really devote himself to pursuing her.

"I know but wait ... is it true that Lacey made an appearance at the birthday party? Tell me it isn't true." She bit on her fingernails.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 01:53 AM (GMT)
Jillian sighed and nodded. "Yeah, it's true. The most disappointing part was the fact that Heath wouldn't let me hit her. But in the end, we took care of it. His family knows her for the cheating whore that she is and I think Heath's really ready to let her go now. Or at least I hope, but that's none of my business." She shrugged and smiled.

Heath - October 11, 2010 02:01 AM (GMT)
"Oh god that's horrible. I heard that skank was going to Metropolis. Some people said it was to visit Alice, you know, Heath's sister. But I knew Heath's birthday was coming up. I kind of figured she was up to something. I'm glad she didn't ruin it for the boys though. Even though I'm not real close with Nathan, I know he's a good guy too."

Jackie sighed before standing straight and glaring into Jillian's eyes. "You should make it your business if you really care about him like you say. Although I'm sure that Heath has let her go. He's too good of a man though and that's why Lacey walked all over him."

Grabbing the door handle, she opened it up. "And someone already beat you to the ass beating. Gary's wife, excuse me, estranged wife, really gave it to her recently."

Just as Jackie was going to spill something else, Heath called to them. "You're missing the party!"

Jillian - October 11, 2010 02:16 AM (GMT)
Jillian just shook her head. "That's not territory I'm willing to cover right now. We're fine like we are. I'm not going to mess with that. Besides, I'm sure there's things Heath wants to do with his life or whatever. Our plans might not be entirely compatible. No need to go messing up what we've got right now. I care about him enough to just let it play out without trying to push it in any particular direction."

She knew it was messed up but a part of her was entirely too happy to find that someone had given Lacey a bit of her own medicine. Before she could question Jackie further however, Heath was calling them back over.

Heath - October 11, 2010 02:31 AM (GMT)
"We'll talk girl. I have so much I want to tell you anyway. It's nice to have someone to just listen and talk to you," said Jackie, giving her a quick hug as they exited the bathroom.

"There you go. I was about to send a rescue party for you two," chuckled Heath as he held onto a shot glass filled with tequila. "I wanted to take a shot with you so I reserved number five for you."

"You guys already started the shots without us. How rude!" Jackie strutted away toward the table as Heath and Jillian strolled back at a slower place.

"Would you get mad if I thank you again?" he asked her.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 02:34 AM (GMT)
Jillian smiled and returned the hug. She had a feeling that Jackie was right, she simply was never willing to talk although many had indicated they were willing to listen.

"Yes," she decided promptly. "You already started tequila shots without me and now you insist on thanking me for things I've told you you're not allowed to thank me for? You're really pushing it, Mr. Hasker."

Heath - October 11, 2010 02:39 AM (GMT)
"Actually no. I did vodka shots earlier because Kevin insisted. But I saved the best drinks for my best lady," said Heath leading them back to the table where everyone was being loud, especially Jackie who didn't hesitate to take a few shots. She was one of the very few girls who could handle her alcohol well. Paul on the other hand, he wasn't a big drinker or party person. He was always the designated driver.

The food was already on the table, the guys deciding appetizers instead of full on meals. Heath grabbed a slider burger from one of the plates and handed it to Jillian. "They're real good," he said, taking one for himself.

"Another round ...??"

"Only if it's tequila!"

Jillian - October 11, 2010 02:47 AM (GMT)
Jillian took the burger as well as Heath's shot of tequila, draining it promptly. "You still started without me." She smiled sweetly and handed him back the empty glass. She claimed her seat and bit into the mini burger. "But you're right. This is really good."

Heath - October 11, 2010 02:56 AM (GMT)
"Oh, my apologies your highness," he chuckled, finishing off the burger and pulling his seat over to sit beside Jillian. He had just looked up when he caught a glimpse of a familiar face. At the same moment, she looked over and upon seeing him, her face brightened.

"Heath?!" she called out to him as her feet quickly carried her over to where he was.

"Alaina." He abandoned his seat and the table, meeting her half way. She practically jumped into his arms and Heath didn't hesitate on grasping her in a tight hold.

"Oh my gosh," she said, parting from him to look into his face. "What are you doing back in Florida? It's so good to see you."

"The same here Alaina. It's good to see you too," he said finally letting go of her and taking a quick glance. Alaina looked a lot different from the last time he'd see her. She was thirty or maybe forty pounds lighter. Her hair was brown and curly around her face instead of straight and highlighted with blond streaks. She did look a little older as well; a slight darkness underneath her eyes. Otherwise, she looked great.

"My girlfriend flew me out here for my birthday, to hang out with my crew." He hadn't meant to say it again, although it was much easier to explain Jillian as his girlfriend than his friend.

"Your girlfriend?" She smiled. No wonder Heath looked so good. He was happy.

"Come. Let me introduce you," he said, bringing her over to the table.

Jackie immediately recognized who Heath was talking to. "Jay," she whispered to her. "That's Gary's wife ... Heath's ex-bestfriend's ex-wife."

Jillian - October 11, 2010 02:58 AM (GMT)
Jillian had already been taking the woman in when Jackie provided an explanation. Any woman that greeted Heath with such open enthusiasm had her attention from the start. She did relax when Jackie told her who she was though. It was the woman who'd given Lacey a piece of her mind. She deserved an applause at the very least.

She flashed the woman a warm smile as she approached with Heath.

Heath - October 11, 2010 03:07 AM (GMT)
"Oh wow, the whole crew is here," noted Alaina, who hadn't see any of them in months especially after things went south with Gary. "Hi everyone."

"Hey Alaina," said Kevin, lifting an eye to her and smiling. "You're looking good. How's everything?"

She shrugged. "It's going. You know, taking it one day at a time."

"I hear that," said Ernie, lifting up one of the drinks toward Alaina. She took it with no hesitation and then turned her attention toward the blond who she assumed was Heath's girlfriend. Alaina had to admit to herself Jillian was a beautiful woman and the simple fact that she seemed to fit in with the rest of them had her relaxed a little more.

"Jillian, this is Alaina. Alaina, Jillian ..." He held his breath for a short moment.

"Such a pleasure to meet you." Alaina held out her hand to Jillian and smiled. "I've known Heath for a long time. We used to be neighbors when he was living here. He's such a great guy. I love him to pieces."

"Do you have time to join us for a few drinks?" offered Heath.

She nodded. "Sure. I guess I have some time to spare before I have to get going."

Heath pulled up a chair to the table for her.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 03:10 AM (GMT)
Jillian returned the handshake with a smile. "It's nice to meet you too. I haven't had the chance to hear much about you, but I like what I've heard so far." There was something about Alaina that struck a chord with Jillian. The woman reminded her of her mother in so many ways she had to take a moment to catch her breath. She had the same gentle mannerisms, the air of fragility with just a hint of backbone. She was forced to avert her eyes if only for a second.

Heath - October 11, 2010 03:21 AM (GMT)
"Alaina and I met when I first came to Miami. She was working in the administration building on base. She was probably the nicest person there at the time. I remember how she helped me get the house and all. She used to personally bring me dinner because you know I can't really cook much." Heath smiled.

"Oh yeah, you really loved my Cuban food. He couldn't get enough of it." Alaina's laugh was heart and gentle. She pressed a hand to her chest and sighed. She hadn't done that in quite some time.

"There's so much catching up to do, I don't know where to begin," said Heath, sitting between her and Jillian. "First, I have to ask ... how are the kids? I totally miss Garrett, Grace and Gemma."

"You have no idea how much they miss you too. They always ask about you; more than they ask about their stupid father." There was displeasure in her voice when she mentioned her ex-husband. "They'll be so excited to hear about you."

Alaina leaned over to engage in conversation with Jillian. Heath pushed his chair back slightly. "He was so good with my kids. I mean, I'd never seen a man endure so much torture from a 3, 5 and 8 year old. Anytime I needed to run errands, he'd come over and watch them for me. It always amazed me how great he was with them. Even when they were sick, he'd take the time to bring them soup and medicine. Heath captured my sisterly love simply because he adored my children."

Heath's head filled with wonderful memories of the kids.

Jillian - October 11, 2010 03:27 AM (GMT)
Normally Jillian would have been annoyed by Alaina's actions. She knew what the woman was doing. She was trying to put Jillian at ease by displaying that she was by no means attempting to be competition. Usually, the idea that someone would think they could compete and trying to show that they weren't would have annoyed her but she appreciated the attempt from Alaina.

"I can only imagine. I don't usually get to see him with kids but when he met my little sister he was amazing with her." She didn't bother trying to explain the dynamics of her familial relationship with the Ryders.

Heath - October 11, 2010 03:39 AM (GMT)
Alaina merely shook her head. She never will understand how good people didn't get what they deserved. Anyone would be lucky to have Heath as a spouse. Sure he wasn't perfect; he had his flaws but he was so good to Lacey all the time and she was terrible to him.

"What is it Alaina?" he asked, watching her expression saddened.

"Nothing really ..." she trailed, looking up at him. She knew so many secrets now. Once she found out what Gary had done to her and to Heath, she never rested until she found out the truth about everything. If Heath knew half of the stuff ... she could never bare to tell him.

"You're lying," he said, watching her reach for a piece of chicken and nibbling.

Jackie and Kevin shared a look before looking back at her with much attention.

"I just will never understand why this happened to us, you know. I know it's been over a year but ... I guess I'm still hurt by it all Heath. You were a good man. I was a good woman. I know we did everything in our power to make them happy yet here we are and those two pretend like it's nothing. It's such a slap in the face. After all we did ... they still trot around Miami, together."

Jackie's eyes widened. No!

"Together?"

"Yes, together ... I don't want to be the one to tell you this. Oh my gosh, I can't ..." She stood up to leave.

"No, don't go. What were you going to say?" he asked with pleading eyes.

"I didn't want to be the one to tell you. I know you're going to find out eventually though. I'm really sorry Heath." Regret was thick in her voice. "Lacey is ... She's going to have Gary's baby."




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