Adult-FanFiction.org : Celebrity

My December	By : Fuelish Category: Individual Celebrities > Josh Groban Views: 2010 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. I do not know Josh Groban. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 6
- 7
- 8
CHAPTER TWELVE

“Josh, where are the maps?” Karen called from the driveway. Josh was lifting the cooler on the porch and carrying it down the stairs.
“I’m pretty sure I put them in the driver’s side door.” He said hoisting the cooler into the car and positioning it between the middle row of captain’s chairs in the Chrysler Town and Country van they’d rented the day before. Karen opened the driver’s side door and found them exactly where he said he’d put them. She sighed. He was so good and she was so forgetful. It was the day they had been anxiously awaiting for weeks, the kids were inside adding the rest of what they were bringing on vacation to their suitcases and had been instructed to bring them out to the van when they were ready. As if on cue Ryan emerged from the house dragging his suitcase behind him. He handed it over to Josh who was neatly arranging everything in the back.
“Where are your sisters?” Josh asked him, a plume of smoke escaping from his mouth as he spoke. It was a nippy day in Ohio and being as it was 6 in the morning it was even chillier then normal. “Aren’t they done yet?” Ryan shrugged his shoulders and began to climb into the van via the side door. Josh stopped him with a hand on his shoulder. “Ryan, please go get them. I want to get on the road.” Karen watched them and smiled. They seemed to get along well so far and it pleased her. Ryan wasn’t intimidated by Josh the way he would be an older man and Josh wasn’t bossy like a parent would be but more like almost a peer. Ryan nodded to Josh and headed off in the house to round up the girls. Busy situating CDs between the two front seats she jumped when she felt arms slip around her waist. She turned to Josh who smiled at her.
“I’m so excited.” He said and grinned. He was wearing a heavy winter coat, a wool hat, and mittens. She giggled. He was adorable! He had rosy cheeks and his nose was tinged red as well. She slipped her arms around him and hugged him as best she could with all the bulk he carried.
“Me too, Josh, me too.” He leaned forward and kissed her. His lips were cold. She let hers linger a moment to warm him before pulling away. He held on tightly to her.
“You’re so warm.” He said, nuzzling his cold face into her neck. She squealed and pushed at him. “Come on, baby, warm me up.” He teased. She finally wiggled out of his grasp and went for the house.
“You Californian, you!” She called hiking up the stairs and opening the front door. “Carlie, Kelly, it’s time!” He heard her call before the door closed behind her. He climbed into the van and started the engine and with all the doors opened he blasted the heat and held his gloved hands in front of the blowers hoping to steal some warmth. Within the next fifteen minutes, everyone was in the van, safely buckled in their seats, Josh behind the wheel and Karen in the co-pilot position. Before pulling out of the drive Josh turned around and addressed the passengers.
“Does anyone have to go to the bathroom before we go?” He asked eyeing each of them. They all shook their heads. “Good, then we’re off.” He faced the front, put the van in drive and pulled out and onto the road. “Oh, one more thing!” He said and eyed them again, this time in the rearview mirror.
“What?” Kelly said with a sigh.
“I don’t want to hear any of that ‘are we there yet’ crap!” He said and then snickered.
“Are we there yet?” Ryan called from the third row of seats in the back. Josh growled and then laughed.

It was a long day of traveling. Josh drove most of the way and Karen was relieved. She found herself nodding off every hour or so from the vibration of the tires on the pavement and the hum of the road. She kept apologizing to Josh and he just laughed at her.
“It’s okay, Karen.” He said. “That’s what happens when you get old.” Kelly and Carlie giggled and Karen smacked his arm. He pretended to swerve, jerking the wheel. Karen grabbed the dashboard and frowned. “Joshua!” She snapped. He giggled again with the girls in the back.

They stopped for the night in Iowa City. Renting a two-room suite at a Holiday Inn, exhausted, they carried their suitcases up to the rooms. Karen unlocked the door with a key card and the kids pushed past her and into the room. Josh dropped his and Karen’s suitcase on the floor and flopped down in the first chair he saw and sighed. Karen stomped into the room and hollered at the kids who were busy jumping up and down and back and forth from bed to bed. She opened the door to the next suite and sighed. At least she and Josh would be alone for the night. She flipped on a light and headed quickly for the bathroom. She’d been holding it for most of an hour and her sense of urgency had abated and a sense of emergency took it’s place. When she came out, Josh had their suitcases on the dresser in the bedroom and was pulling out a small case that held his toothbrush, toothpaste, and assorted toiletries.
“I’m going to take a shower, Karen, do you mind?” He said as he stuffed a clean set of clothes under his arm and headed for the bathroom.
“When are we going to eat?” She asked knowing that any minute the kids were going to rush in and claim they were starving. Josh went into the bathroom and closed the door.
“I’ll only be a minute!” He called and then she heard the sound of the water running. Karen sighed and headed for the kid’s room.

Karen decided that they should walk the two blocks to the family restaurant they spied on the way to the hotel being as it would release a little nervous energy the kids were storing and they would sleep better. Josh slipped his hand into hers and they walked together, kids running on ahead.
“Karen, this is so cool.” Josh said squeezing her hand.
“Yeah it is.” She said. “It’s been a long day though.”
“That it has.” He said. “I’m so glad you got the time off.” Karen sighed. It had been a bumpy road getting there but there they were. After she and Josh discussed her job the night her boss told her she couldn’t take off the week she went in to him the next day and told him if she didn’t have the week off she would quit. Without waiting for an answer she turned on her heel and walked out the door. After a few minutes of mulling it over he returned to Karen and told her she could do it. “And …” She added, not caring if anyone else was listening. “I might be reducing my hours to part-time.” He frowned and glared at her. “I have a relationship to maintain.” It was his turn to turn and leave in a huff. Karen didn’t care, she now had options. She tightened her fingers around Josh’s hand. He turned to her and smiled. They ate in the small family restaurant and then headed back to the Holiday Inn. The kids were instructed to take showers and go to bed.
“We have an early start and we want to get in some breakfast before we travel again.” Josh said. “We have some interesting things coming up in the next day!” While Kelly showered in Karen’s room, Ryan showered in their room and then it was Carlie’s turn. After they were all fresh and in bed Josh told them about all the fun things to see in South Dakota.
“I know that Mount Rushmore is there.” Kelly said only it came out as Rount Mushmore. The four of them giggled so hard Karen thought they were going to burst. She laughed from the other room as she emerged from the shower and was now putting on pajamas. When the giggles subsided, Josh wiped the tears from his eyes.
“I needed that.” He said with a satisfied sigh.
“What else is there?” Carlie asked.
“Besides Rount …” Kelly crossed her arms over her chest and frowned.
“Don’t say it Josh!” She said angrily. He giggled again.
“Okay, okay. Anyway, there are a few things to see, first there’s this town called Mitchell and they have this cool building made out of corn, it’s called the Corn Palace.”
“Sounds corny.” Ryan said and laughed at his own joke. Josh rolled his eyes.
“Never heard that one before!” He teased. “Anyway, then there are the Badlands.” Carlie’s eyes grew large.
“What are the Badlands?” She asked. “It sounds scary.”
“It’s not really, it’s beautiful. It’s like a barren wasteland of the most beautiful rock formations you’ve ever seen, very colorful.”
“I’ve heard of it.” Kelly said, disinterested, flipping through channels on the TV. Josh tucked Carlie into bed next to her sister and kissed her on the forehead.
“Anyway, there’s lots to see. You guys get a good night’s sleep ‘cause we’ll be off and running early.” He closed the door between the rooms and found Karen snuggled in bed.
“That’s going to need to stay open.” She said eyeing the door. He turned the lock on it and winked at her.
“Sure.” He said. “After.” She smiled as he approached the bed, slipping his shirt up and over his head. Before he climbed in next to her he kicked off his jeans and socks. She gasped.
“You weren’t wearing underwear.” She whispered. He scooped her into his arms and kissed her.
“No, I wasn’t.” He said and kissed her again.
“Weren’t you freezing your ass off?” She asked between kisses. He smiled.
“Yeah and I shriveled up to nothing.” He rubbed himself against her. “But not any more.” She reached down and slid her fingers around it. He gasped. “It’s warmed up and ready to go.” He breathed in her ear then bit at it. She pressed her mouth against his passionately, her tongue slipping inside. He positioned himself over her and entered her quickly. He had just started to make love to her when there was a knock at the door. Josh froze and held himself inside her. “What do we do?” He asked, panicked. Karen sighed heavily.
“Hang on.” She said to Josh then yelled to the door. “What?”
“Ryan took the remote from me and won’t give it back.” Kelly said. Karen clicked her tongue.
“Good grief.” She said to Josh again. “Knock it off or I’m coming out there!” She hollered again to the door. They waited a moment and when it was silent Josh began to make love to her again. He had shrunk some during the intrusion but now stiffened and was getting into it. He hurried himself along this time, not wanting to hear another knock on the door and when they were done, Karen went out to see that everything was okay. The girls were asleep and Ryan was flipping through the channels on the TV. Karen went over and kissed the top of his head. He smiled at her. “Don’t be a jerk to your sisters. We’re supposed to be having a good time.”
“I’m not.” Ryan said. Karen messed up his still damp hair.
“I’m sure you aren’t. Go to sleep.” She said and went back to the other room leaving the door ajar. Josh was curled up, waiting for her. She slid in beside him and he took her into his arms. “Interesting day.” She said. He kissed her forehead.
“Very. Tomorrow will be even better.” Josh said and closed his eyes.

By 8:30 AM they were back on the road. Ryan and Carlie were in the first row of back seats watching a movie on the DVD player and Kelly was in the third row of back seats reading a book. Josh was at the wheel and Karen sat in the co-pilot position reading a AAA Travel book on the state of South Dakota.
“That corn palace isn’t made of corn.” She said suddenly.
“No?” Josh asked and frowned.
“No. But it does have corn murals that are put up on the exterior walls every year. And the damn thing’s been standing there 90 years!” Josh made a face.
“Well that’s still pretty cool, huh?” Karen smiled and nodded.
“Yeah, I can’t wait to see it.” She directed him from Interstate 80 to I380 and then over to I90 where they would easily get to the Corn Palace, the first place of interest for the day.

There was a crowd gathered outside of the building, some pointing, all talking. Josh grabbed the digital camera from the van and took pictures.
“This building is really old.” Karen told the kids.
“I can’t believe it’s made out of corn.” Ryan said. Karen shook her head.
“It isn’t. But the whole layer on top of it here …” She pointed. “Is made from corn and corn husks.” Ryan shoved Josh playfully.
“Why’d you tell me it was made out of corn?” Josh laughed.
“’Cause I thought it was! Your mom is the one who told me it wasn’t.” Ryan blushed.
“Jeez …” He said. “That will teach me to believe you again.” Josh laughed again.
“Are we going inside?” Carlie asked. Karen shook her head again.
“No, we really need to get on the road if we want to make it to California before Thursday.” Before piling back into the van they stopped in a gift shop and grabbed a few items then pressed on towards the Badlands. The drive was slow and monotonous. The van was quiet for once, the kids sleeping in the back. Karen slumped down in the passenger seat and watched out the window as the lifeless landscape zipped by. She let her eyes go out of focus and saw nothing more then a blur in various hues of browns, yellows, and golds. She suddenly felt Josh’s hand on her leg. She turned and looked at him. He was smiling. She smiled back and took his hand into hers. His thumb stroked her lightly and before she knew it was asleep again to the hum of the road.

Karen was drifting, floating … perhaps on the ocean, on her back, the sun warming her body. She smiled. It felt so freeing, so peaceful … until she heard a shout and sank into the water. She sat up quickly, squinted and looked around. Where the hell was she? Her mind came back to her quickly. Josh glanced into the rearview mirror and frowned.
“Knock it off.” He said. “Your mother’s sleeping.” She yawned.
“Not any more she isn’t.” She said and turned around the face the two directly behind her. “What are you arguing about?”
“Kelly doesn’t want to watch Care Bears.” Carlie whined.
“I hate those stupid bears.” Kelly said.
“How close are we?” Karen asked Josh. He smiled.
“Very.”
“Thank God.” Karen muttered and turned her attention to the map.

The Badlands. Karen stood at the edge of a crag and stared down into it. Josh stood next to her and slipped an arm around her waist. The kids had run off to explore with strict instructions not to wander too far. She slipped her arm around his waist and sighed. If one had never seen the Badlands and Karen had to describe it to them she would be at a loss for words. It was beautiful and beautiful didn’t even come close to matching the sheer strength of it. As far as your eye could see, hundreds of miles of buttes and chasms of muted coppers, golds, and creams dotted with yellows and browns now and then, a paleontologist’s wet dream. Karen looked up at Josh. He grinned.
“Cool, isn’t it?” He said then leaned down for a kiss.
“It’s breathtaking!” Karen said. Josh released her and tugged at her hand.
“We’d better get going if we’re going to make some distance today.” He stuck his fingers in his mouth and whistled. The kids came running. As the group piled back into the car they grumbled about not being able to see anything. Josh started the van and headed back towards the highway promising bigger and better things to see in the near future.

The five of them stood and stared at the creation that loomed largely before them. Josh had not seen it other then in pictures since he was a young boy and the three children that stood in awe next to him had never seen it. They were eerily silent. Josh slipped an arm around Karen’s waist. She leaned against him and sighed.
“It’s incredible, isn’t it?” She said softly. Josh just nodded. Ryan aimed the camera and snapped several photos. People milled about, Kelly sighed.
“Okay, I’m ready to go.” She said and yawned. Carlie clung to her mother’s legs. Josh leaned down and kissed Karen.
“Should we get going?” He asked. “I’m almost getting sick of driving.” He sighed and pulled Karen towards the gift shop. When the kids saw that he was going in they quickly followed. Half an hour and forty dollars later they were back on the road. Wyoming wasn’t too far and Josh wanted to make it as close to California as he could before they crashed for the night. Before piling back into the van Karen slid behind the wheel and Josh gladly let her drive. He was lulled to sleep by the vibration of the tires on the road and woke up sometime after dark.
“Where are we?” He said groggily wiping a small puddle of drool that had accumulated on his cheek. He rubbed his eyes and squinted. He wasn’t used to sleeping in his contacts and they had adhered to his eyeballs.
“We’re in California.” Karen said softly. The younger two children were snoring lightly in the back while Ryan sat with the maps and watched the dark landscape pass quickly by. He had the map light on over the seat and was reading a tour book on California and reading stories to Karen about the Donner group who had gotten lost in the mountains and had to resort to cannibalism to stay alive.
“How the hell did you get so far so quickly?” He grabbed his water bottle and swigged generously.
“It wasn’t all that quick, sweetie, it’s after 10.” Josh pulled up the sleeve of his shirt and squinted at the numbers on his watch.
“What?” He shook his head to clear the sleepy fog. “We should stop and crash for the night.”
“Already got that covered.” Karen said and smiled. She exited the expressway and made a left. They came into a sleeping, silent little town called Barstow. By the time Karen pulled into the parking lot of a Holiday Inn Express and parked Josh was already out the car door and heading into the lobby. He came back out moments later.
“Let’s go girls …” He said opening the gate of the van and pulling out his backpack. Ryan frowned at him.
“You talking about yourself again?” He taunted, coming up behind Josh. Josh just grunted and carried some luggage into the hotel. Ryan followed with the rest of the temporary luggage while Karen jostled the girls awake. She carried Carlie inside while Kelly slowly dragged herself inside clutching her pillow. While Josh got ready for bed Karen made sure the kids we tucked tightly into bed then she slipped into the oversized tee shirt she slept in and crawled in next to Josh. He was mostly asleep already but found energy to pull Karen into his arms and cuddle her. She lay there a few moments taking in his warmth and the spice of his cologne mingled with the fresh scent of his just washed face. His body pressed against her, the matted fur of his chest hair tickling her arm. Desire swept over her and she leaned up and kissed his lips. At first he didn’t respond but by the third kiss he kissed her back slowly. She ran her hands down his belly and then slipped them inside his boxers where she found his manhood sleeping as well. She stroked him lightly and quickly it stood at attention. Josh groaned into the kiss. He pushed her over onto her back and nibbled at her neck. She sighed. This was what she wanted, a little attention. Josh slid his hands up her tee shirt and wrapped his large fingers around her breasts. Karen raked her nails down his back eliciting a heavy moan from Josh then slid her hands down inside his boxers and cupped his ass. He groaned again as she wiggled her fingers between his cheeks and rubbed a finger along his tightening balls. He came away from her neck and yanked off the boxers. He was good and ready for her. She opened her legs to him and he dove inside burying himself to the hilt. Karen moaned audibly. Josh covered her mouth with his to silence her. He moved himself in and out quickly, her wetness spreading and dripping down onto the sheet. He sighed as he slipped himself inside her and held it there.
“God, you are so wet tonight.” He whispered and slipped his tongue inside her mouth. She sucked it in and lapped at it with hers, her hips rocking upwards against him to get him moving again. “You want this baby?” He whispered, his lips right on her ear. She groaned. He moved quickly and feeling himself building towards orgasm, slowed down to enjoy it. He came with a rush holding himself tightly against Karen as her nails dug into his skin. He groaned into her neck. When he came down from the excitement he rolled off of her, pulled her against him and fell into a deep sleep.

Kelly went straight for the extra bedroom and plopped her suitcase down onto the bed. She went straight to the stereo on the shelf across the room and flipped it on. It was still on the same radio station she’d left it last time she was in California, it made her smile. She began to unpack when Carlie came in and frowned.
“I hate this music.” She said and wheeled her suitcase to her dresser and unzipped it.
“I don’t care. I hate your music.” Kelly replied throwing her clothes into a drawer.
“I listen to Josh’s music.” Carlie said. Kelly shrugged.
“So?” She said and felt herself flush. She really did like Josh’s music too but refused to give in and tell everyone how she felt. It had been a week or two since she had sat staring at photos of him in her mother’s photo album and sighing. That curly hair, those huge brown eyes … his bright, white smile. Not to mention his voice … She sighed again not realizing she was doing it out loud.
“What?” Carlie asked her seeing that Kelly had gone off into one of her trance’s again. She had been doing that a lot lately and Carlie knew all the signs. She was in love with a boy. She always did that when she fell in love. “Who is it now?” Carlie asked.
“Who is what?” Kelly said, coming out of it as she saw Josh walk past the door with Ryan in tow.
“The boy you like.” Carlie said.
“I don’t like anyone!” Kelly snapped. Carlie giggled.
“That’s a lie!” Kelly walked over to her and pushed her backwards on the bed.
“Knock it off squirt.” She said and walked out of the room.

Josh took Ryan over to a privacy screen in the corner of the living room.
“Check this out, Ryan.” He said and went behind the screen. “Now you don’t have to sleep out in the open in the living room.” Ryan smiled.
“That’s cool. Thanks, Josh.” He said and peeking behind the screen found the bed, a nightstand, and a dresser pushed into the corner, TV on top of the dresser. “Very cool.” Josh smiled.
“So you like?” Ryan held his hand up for Josh to give him a high five.
“It’s great. Thanks.” Josh left him and headed for the bedroom where Karen was emptying her suitcase and Josh’s. Kelly watched him intently and then blushed furiously when his eyes met hers. He stopped in front of her, planted his hands on his hips, and smiled brightly.
“There’s pop in the fridge.” Josh said and then frowned. He glanced towards the kitchen. “Oh shit, maybe, I don’t remember if I got any last time I went out.” He stomped into the kitchen and yanked open the fridge. There was yogurt, beer, a bottle of wine, and a Pepsi. “Shit.” He muttered. He went back into the living room where Kelly stood, waiting. He stood with his hands on his hips and made a face. “Oh am I dumb.” He said. Kelly laughed. “Want to come with me to the store?” Her heart leaped into her throat. She was going to get to be all alone with Josh, for the first time ever!
“Sure.” She said. Josh grabbed his keys off the credenza and fished his wallet out of his back pocket.
“Go tell your mom where we’re going.” He instructed. Kelly went into the bedroom where Karen was sorting socks in a drawer.
“Josh and I are going to the store.” She said matter-of-fact.
“Hang on and I’ll go with you.” Karen said. Kelly felt panic flood her very being. No! Her mom couldn’t go, it was her first time alone with Josh – and in California no less.
“No, mom, we’re leaving right now.” Karen shut the drawer and stood up.
“I’m almost done, Kel.” Kelly turned.
“Mom, just wait here, we’ll be right back.” She said and left the room before Karen could say another word. She met up with Josh in the hallway right outside the door. They took the elevator down to the parking garage. Kelly headed right for the van but Josh clicked the button on his remote turning off the alarm on the Porsche. Kelly felt tingly from the top of her head to the tips of her toes. “Oh … my … God!” She said breathlessly as Josh approached the passenger side of the car and opened the door for her. “Is this your car?” She asked. He smiled and nodded.
“Yeah, she’s beautiful, isn’t she?” Kelly nodded so quickly she felt dizzy. “Josh indicated the inside. “Well, go on, slide on in.” She made to get in and Josh stopped her with a hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him, bright green eyes questioning. “Wait. You don’t have anything sharp in your pockets do you? Like a knife or something? Maybe a pen?” She thought a moment then shook her head, her eyes wide in surprise mixed with fear. “Good.” Josh said laughing and releasing her. She slid down onto the seat and Josh closed the door for her. “Can’t have anything ripping my leather seats now …” He said as he climbed in and started the engine. It purred to life like a kitten. Butterflies batted around in her belly as Josh slid his sunglasses onto his face and pushed them up onto his nose. He indicated to her that she should buckle up before putting the car into reverse and pulling out of the garage and into the bright California sunlight. Kelly squinted as the ultraviolet rays singed her eyes and wiped the moisture away as they began to tear up. Josh, noticing how she pawed at her eyes, reached in front of her, into the glove box and pulled out a pair of sunglasses. She slipped them on thankfully and then sighed.
“Oh, it’s good to be able to see again!” He laughed. She clicked the radio on and jumped as the music filled the car. Josh quickly turned it down then made a cringing face at her.
“Sorry …” He said. “I like it loud when I’m driving alone.” She giggled and turned it back up a little. He smiled. Kelly sat proudly in the passenger seat as she rode to the grocery store in a Porsche, sunglasses on, moon roof open, rock music blasting from the speakers – with Josh. She prayed that the moment never end. Sadly it did as he pulled into the parking lot at Ralph’s Grocery Company. He turned off the car, tossed his sunglasses up onto the dash board and climbed out. Kelly kept her sunglasses on as they went into the store. She couldn’t help but to notice how people stared at them as Josh pushed the cart down the soda aisle. He was so handsome, she found herself feeling stupid and giggly in his presence. Kelly sighed. She was never so glad in her life that her mother had hooked up with someone who was young and sexy! ‘Go Mom!’ She thought to herself and smiled. She glanced around at the boys who were stocking the shelves in the Pepsi aisle. They returned her glance and smiled. Yeah, they were hot but not as hot as Josh. He stared at her and smiled. Reaching out he pinched her arm lightly and she jumped. Her smile faded and was replaced by a scowl.
“What was that for?” She asked, rubbing her arm. He laughed.
“Because I had been saying something to you and apparently you were lost in another world.” She blushed furiously and tipped her head down.
“Oh.” She said quietly then looked back up at him, the pink of her cheeks accentuating the green of her eyes almost causing a glowing effect. He was taken aback a moment by the sheer beauty of them. They were just like her mother’s … her gorgeous, hot mother. Josh thought to himself and dropped a case of soda in the cart. Best to get back home, he needed a Karen fix.
“Grab a few cases of whatever you, Ryan, and Carlie will drink.” He instructed as he loaded some diet pop into the cart then went off in search of some snacks. She found him in the bread aisle, his arms loaded with groceries. As she slid up to him with the cart he dropped everything into it.
“Are we doing the shopping for the month or what?” She teased. He sighed and ran a hand through wild curls.
“Yeah, I know. I don’t keep much at home because I’m not usually there.”
“Don’t forget it’s Thanksgiving too, Josh.” He sighed again.
“Oh crap, yeah.” He said and shook his head. Taking control of the cart again he pushed it towards the check out counter. “What should we do tomorrow?” He asked Kelly.
“We have to go to the beach.” She said. He rolled his eyes. The beach wasn’t his favorite place to go. He hated undressing and sitting on the white sand with his white skin and feeling like he blended into the scenery. He didn’t spend as much time as he probably should out of doors and because of that he was pasty white under his clothes with black body hair that made him stick out like a sore thumb.
“Okay.” He said nodding. “The beach. What else?”
“Shopping!” She replied excitedly. He smiled.
“Your mother will love that …” He said, sarcastic. He loved shopping and spending money on Karen and she hated when he did that.
“Don’t care!” She said flippantly. “This is our vacation too!” He laughed softly.
“Maybe we should go to the dinosaur place your mom wanted to go see last summer.” She rolled her eyes and sighed heavily.
“Boring.” She caught the attention of a young boy bagging groceries and blushed when he raised an eyebrow at her. Josh noticed and could barely contain a laugh. He cleared this throat and handed over some money when the cashier told him how much he owed. They packed the groceries and sodas in the little trunk and the rest in the back seat then headed on back to the condo. Once home they unloaded everything into the elevator and brought it upstairs. The other three were on the couch watching the TV, waiting. Karen was at the door as soon as she heard the elevator open. She grabbed a couple of cases of pop that Josh pulled out of the elevator and helped them carry them inside.
“So did you have fun?” Karen asked Kelly. Kelly nodded.
“Yeah it was nice. And Josh drove me in the Porsche.” Karen looked at Josh and he grinned.
“I had to.” He said with a shrug. Karen laughed.
“It’s a cool car isn’t it?” Ryan came into the kitchen.
“You have a Porsche?” He asked, eyes open wide.
“Yep.” Josh said as he put the milk gallon in the fridge.
“Will you take me for a ride in it?” Asked Ryan as he cracked open a case of Pepsi and took one out.
“You bet!” Josh said as he stuffed the rest of the cans into the fridge.
“Me too!” Carlie said as she rushed over to Josh and climbed onto his back. Josh fell forward into the fridge and then toppled over backwards onto the floor spilling Carlie and laying on top of her. She giggled and Josh jumped up to see if she was okay. Seeing that she was, relieved, he laughed too.

For dinner the group went out to a pizza place called Extreme Pizza. Karen looked at the menu and made a face at Josh.
“This place is goofy.” She said. Josh set down the menu and grinned.
“This place is incredibly popular.” Ryan looked around at all the pretty faces around him and smiled.
“I like it.” He said. Josh laughed. Karen rolled her eyes and chalked it off to a testosterone thing. When they couldn’t decide which pizza to order, they began to argue about it. Finally Josh said they each were ordering their own. Sometime towards the end of dinner, Josh’s cell phone went off and he answered his mother’s call. She asked to speak to Karen. He made a face and then held the phone out to her. She frowned and looked at him.
“Who is it?” She asked, wiping her face with a napkin.
“My mother.” He said softly. She took the phone hesitantly and answered it.
“Karen, dear …” Lindy began. “Let’s talk about Thanksgiving Day …” Karen sipped her Diet Coke.
“Yes! Good idea. What can I bring?”
“I don’t want you to bring anything dear, I wanted to ask you about the kids and what they eat and drink.” Karen eyed Josh who was watching intently, a worried look on his face. Karen wasn’t sure she was liking Josh’s mom constantly calling her dear but she made a strong attempt to overlook it.
“Well, they will eat most of anything … Kelly’s a little picky but the other two are good. They just drink whatever anyone else is drinking.” Ryan laughed and nodded. Karen growled at him.
“That’s wonderful. Do they like Coke or Pepsi?”
“They don’t really care. As long as it’s got sugar and fizz they love it.” Lindy chuckled softly.
“Listen, I wanted to make sure that you were aware of the traditions of our family. We dress up on Thanksgiving. I doubt Josh told you … he’s not real good about that. He doesn’t like it so much but I don’t care, we’ve always dressed up for the Holidays. Next, I’m not sure if he also told you that there will be about 4 or 5 families over with their children too. Which is probably a good thing, it’ll give the kids something to do.” Karen smiled.
“Yes, and thank you because he had not mentioned it.” She eyed Josh. He mouthed, ‘what?’ She held up a finger to him, indicating he should wait. “Now Lindy, there has to be something I can bring, I can’t come empty handed!” Lindy sighed on the other end.
“What would you like to bring Karen?” She asked.
“I could bring a dessert …” Karen said.
“That would be great. I will look forward to seeing you all Thursday.”
“Great! Thank you. Oh! And Lindy …” Karen said before Lindy could hang up.
“Yes?”
“What time?”
“Anytime after noon and before 2.” Karen chuckled.
“Well okay then!” Karen hung up the phone and gave it back to Josh.
“Well? What was that all about?” He asked anxiously. Karen gave him the gist of the conversation. Josh sighed.
“Whatever.” He said sarcastically. “I hate that whole dressing up thing on Thanksgiving.” Karen giggled.
“It’s okay, Josh. I might have to go shopping at some point in the next few days, I doubt Ryan brought anything decent to wear.” Josh shrugged.
“We gotta do what we gotta do.”
“I hate shopping.” Karen said. Josh took her hand in his and kissed her palm.
“I know you do, sweetie, I know you do.”

Josh was excited and scared at the same time. He was thrilled that Karen and the kids could spend this holiday with him but flooded with fear over what his family was going to think of his ‘instant’ family. He lay in bed for a long time without sleep the night before and pondered how it might go. There were two scenarios in his head. In the first, everything went great, the kids got along well with his cousin’s kids – who could sometimes be a real pain in the ass and his cousins and their spouses accepted Karen into the family willingly and everything was as it should be. In the second however, the kids were put off by the way his cousin’s kids acted and lashed out creating havoc. Then his cousins were snooty Californians and turned their nose up at Karen and now him for his choice of a mate. At one point during the night he’d even laced his fingers together and said a silent prayer for himself, apologizing the whole time for being selfish and hoping things went his way. Now he sat waiting, in the van as Karen rounded up the kids who were all decked out in their new “finest” and most certainly as anxious as he was to go to his parent’s house and meet hoards of new people. They came walking through the parking garage and he smiled. They literally sparkled and it was the first time he’d truly noticed how handsome and lovely her children were. They climbed into the van and Josh started the engine. He took the cheesecake she’d prepared the day before as she hoisted herself into the passenger seat and then belted in. She took the cake back from him and smiled nervously.
“You okay?” He asked when he felt the chill of her fingers as they brushed his hand when she took the dessert from him. She offered a phony smile and nodded.
“Mmmhmm.” She said and took a deep breath.
“You sure?” He asked once more before putting the van into reverse.
“Yeah. Let’s go.” She said breathless. He backed out of the space and they emerged into the dazzling California sunshine.

There were already six cars parked in front of the Groban’s and Karen felt her stomach doing flips. Josh pulled into the driveway where a space had obviously been left for him and parked the van. He turned to the kids in the back who sat staring at the looming mansion before them. He smiled warmly hoping to calm them.
“Hey.” He said. All eyes turned towards him. “Don’t be nervous.”
“Easy for you to say.” Ryan said and adjusted the tie that was now tight and choking him.
“If things don’t go well I’ll just take you up to my room and you can watch a movie or something. I’m sure it’s going to be fine. If you feel uncomfortable just find me and let me know.” Kelly forced a smile. Oh she would find him all right … “Ready?” Josh asked. Ryan didn’t answer but he opened the van door and climbed out.

Josh entered the house and the familiar scents of Thanksgiving assaulted his senses. He smiled and felt emotions flood him. The melancholy memories of many holidays past filled him. He distracted himself by helping Karen slip off her jacket and then hanging it up in the coat closet along with Kelly ’s and Carlie’s. He slipped his hand inside Karen’s and looked at her. Her eyes were open and staring.
“Ready?” He asked her. She looked at him and shook her head. He leaned down and kissed her lightly on the forehead. “Let’s get it over with, shall we?” Karen took Carlie’s hand as Josh led them forward into the house and towards the conversation.

To Karen the scene was one straight out of a Hollywood movie, relatives dressed in their finest, drinks in hand, chatting away, some laughing, mother’s scolding children for running recklessly, an older gentleman smoking a cigar … She forced a smile though her face felt like it was made out of silicone. The conversation slowed as the five of them made their way into the room. Jack broke away from his conversation to approach them. He smiled and hugged Josh.
“Happy Thanksgiving, son.” He said and when he was finished turned to Karen and embraced her. “And happy Thanksgiving to you.” He said as he squeezed her then released. He turned to Ryan. “You must be Ryan.” Ryan generously stuck out a hand for Jack to shake. Jack took it and pumped it up and down a few times. “Pleasure to meet you all.” He shook Kelly’s frail and ice cold hand then knelt down to Carlie. “Hello young lady.” He said. She smiled shyly and clung on to Karen’s leg. “Don’t be shy. There’s lots of things to do here today and a few kids your own age.” She eyed him but still stayed safe behind her mother. Jack smiled. He remembered Josh at that age, he would have burst into the room and made himself well known. “Are you thirsty?” She nodded ever so slightly. “Why don’t you come with me and I’ll get you a drink.” He stood and held out a hand. Karen nudged Carlie towards him and slowly she took it. Jack winked at Josh as he led Carlie into the dining room. Josh began to introduce the remainder of his entourage to the family members in the room. Josh was hesitant as he approached his cousin. His palms were suddenly sweaty and his hands chilled. He cleared his throat as he introduced Karen to Brandon, his cousin. She squeezed his hand tightly and smiled.
“Karen, this is my cousin Brandon. He’s a veterinarian here in town.” Brandon smiled brightly and for a moment her heart fluttered in her chest. The resemblance was striking. She held her hand out to him and he took it and instead of shaking it, kissed the back of her hand. She felt her cheeks redden.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you Brandon.” She said. “It’s amazing how much you two look alike.” Josh smiled shyly and looked down at the floor.
“Yeah, well, he’s a lucky devil then, isn’t he?” Brandon said, adjusting his tie and tucking a curl behind his ear. He didn’t wear his hair as curly as Josh, it was more wavy then curly but it was handsome nevertheless.
“Where’s Blaire?” Josh asked, referring to Brandon’s wife. Brandon indicated with a hand that held a bottle of Miller Lite to a woman in the corner of the room chatting away.
“Over there, gossiping to your mother.” Josh glanced over and seeing she was a bit larger then the last time he saw her, looked again. Brandon noticed this and chuckled. “She’s pregnant.”
“Wow! Congratulations.” He clapped Brandon on the back. Just then Lindy came rushing up to them and slipped her arms around her son, squeezing him tightly.
“Joshua!” She said and kissed him on the cheek. She quickly moved on to Karen and hugged her as well. “Karen.” Lindy turned to the children and slipped her arms around Kelly. “Welcome Kelly.” She said. “I’m Josh’s mom. I’m so glad you could come.” She moved on to Ryan. “Let’s go, you guys need drinks and to be introduced to the other people your age.” She slung and arm through each of their arms and led them away. Josh turned to Karen and sighed.
“How are you?” He asked and slipped his arm around her shoulder. She leaned into him and searched his eyes for understanding.
“Nervous as hell.” He leaned down and kissed her trembling lips lightly.
“We’ll get through the day and after this any other family get-togethers won’t seem so bad.” She smiled weakly as he led her into the room. She felt as though she was being led into the lion’s den. Karen didn’t see the kids until dinnertime when Carlie rushed up to her and hugged her. She was bubbly and happy. Karen hugged her.
“What are you doing little girl?” She asked.
“Having fun, mommy. I’m playing a game with Ashley.” She pointed to a pony-tailed girl in a blue dress who was talking to her mom and pointing back at Carlie. The two girls giggled.
“Is she nice?” Karen asked. Carlie nodded.
“Very. I wish we lived closer together so we could play more often.” Karen hugged her daughter again.
“You will see her again, I’m sure.” Just then there was the sound of a bell ringing and Josh came up beside Karen. “What the hell is that?” She asked him.
“Dinnertime.” He led Karen to the table. In all the commotion Karen hadn’t noticed the other two kids finding their way to a second table populated with mostly kids their age. She watched with curiosity as they chatted and giggled, pointed, but barely ate. After dinner they took off again as Karen was helping clear the dining room table. It seemed the Grobans were a little old fashioned in the sense that Karen noticed all the women bustling around the table and the kitchen cleaning up while the males disappeared; she shook her head and clicked her tongue. Karen smiled nervously at the other women bustling around her and tried to make small talk. She brought a handful of glasses to a woman perched at the sink who was busily washing anything that was put within her reach.
“So I hear you’re pregnant.” Karen said, hoping to strike up a conversation. Pregnancy was certainly something she knew about and felt she could probably hold a decent conversation. The pretty young girl smiled and then nodded towards another blonde on the other side of the sink, laughing and loading plates into the dishwasher.
“That’s Blaire, she’s the pregnant one.” Karen felt herself flush with embarrassment. She covered her mouth with her hand.
“Oh my God, I’m so sorry!” She said quietly. The young blonde laughed softly.
“It’s quite okay. I have a child already. It’s their first.” Karen watched as Blaire finished up at the dishwasher and now followed a brunette over to the leftovers in bowls and heaped them into storage containers.
“I have three.” Karen sighed.
“Oh you’re Josh’s girl.” Karen felt herself blush again and mentally chastised herself for continuously doing that. She sighed. She needed to get control and was finding it more difficult.
“Yeah, I am.” She said. The girl leaned close to Karen.
“You’re the talk of the family.” She whispered. Karen’s mouth dropped open in shock.
“I am?”
“Yes! I’m Deanna by the way.” The girl stuck out a wet hand. Karen took it and shook it before realizing it was wet and soapy.
“I’m Karen.” Deanna smiled.
“I know.” She said and wiped her hands on a dish towel. “We met earlier. I’m sure you don’t remember because there are lots of us today. You being here ensured a good turn out for the Grobans today.” Deanna laughed. Karen rolled her eyes and sighed heavily. “You and Josh are positively scandalous.” She gushed and then grinned. “And I love it! It’s just what this uptight family needs.” She leaned back against the counter.
“God, Deanna, I don’t want to make trouble for Josh.” Deanna turned to her.
“Don’t you even worry about it.” She said. “These people are so uptight that they couldn’t find their assholes in the middle of the day with a flashlight!” Karen uttered a small laugh. Deanna laughed so hard she snorted. “By the way, I’m married to Lindy’s sister’s son, Alex.” Karen nodded. She was totally lost but it didn’t matter. She seemed to have an ally in Deanna and was grateful.
“Ahhh …” Karen said. “I can’t remember which guy he was.”
“I’ll point him out as soon as they get done setting up.” Karen frowned.
“Setting up what?”
“Game tables.” Deanna went over to the fridge and pulled a wine cooler from the back. She held it up to Karen. “Want one?” Karen nodded. She needed it now after finding out she was the talk of the family. Deanna brought it to her, she twisted off the cap and took a large drink. “We play game for a while after dinner before dessert.” Deanna took a sip. “Call me Dee Dee by the way Or just Dee.” Karen nodded again.
“You can call me scandalous.” Dee laughed right as she took a drink and nearly sprayed it all over the floor. She wiped her mouth with her arm and chuckled. “I suppose I would be scandy for short …” Karen sighed and Dee laughed again.
“You’re funny. Well I think your relationship is wonderful.”
“Thank you. Josh is a great guy.” She nodded in agreement.
“Yeah, he is. And that thing he was dating before, she was just a dipshit.” Karen nodded.
“Yeah, I had a run-in with her not too long ago.”
“Did you?” Dee asked, her eyes opening wide and smiling devilishly. “Tell me!”
“She showed up at Josh’s condo one morning and started some shit. I listened for as long as I could before sticking my nose in his business and telling her what I thought of her.” Dee clapped her hands excitedly.
“God, I wish I could have been a fly on the wall that day!” Karen chuckled.
“Well looking back on it, it must have been interesting. I wasn’t having fun then though.”
“You know she was kind of a low life. Just because she was in a few ‘B’ movies she thought she was all that. I can tell right away when I meet someone what kind of person they are and she just gave off bad vibes from the moment I met her.” She shuddered. “You, on the other hand, are very nice.” She smiled brightly at Karen and Karen returned the smile.
“Well, thank you.” Just then Carlie and Ashley came bounding into the kitchen.
“Mom!” Carlie said holding her arms up to Karen for a hug. Karen leaned over and hugged her.
“What?” Karen replied in the same tone that Carlie had said ‘mom.’
“Ashley and I are playing with Barbies!” Karen looked over at Ashley who was hugging Dee.
“Ashley is your daughter?” Karen asked Dee.
“Yep!” Dee said proudly.
“Excellent! Our daughters get along famously!”
“You see? It is meant to be!” Carlie and Ashley ran back out of the room. “How old is Carlie?”
“She’s 8.”
“Ash is 7, her birthday isn’t until February.” Karen nodded.
“Car will be 9 in March.” Just then Josh came into the kitchen. He smiled when he spied Karen.
“There you are!” He said as he approached. He slipped an arm around her waist and pulled her close. “I’ve been looking all over for you.” Karen smiled and leaned up to him for a kiss.
“I’ve been here the whole time, talking to Dee Dee.” Dee swallowed the last of her wine cooler and tossed the bottle into the recycle bin in the corner then returned.
“Karen’s fantastic, Josh.” He smiled at her then winked. “She’s a fine addition to the family.”
“Well I think so in any case.” He tightened his grip on her. “The games are set up. Want to go play games?” He asked Karen. She shrugged. She would have rathered just stand there and chat with Dee all night. Dee was already heading out of the kitchen towards the den. Josh and Karen followed. Inside the den there were several card tables set up with different games on each one. Some tables were already full of family members. Karen was impressed. It was a very interesting idea to say the least. She wondered where the kids were hiding and thought about finding them before getting involved in a game. Dee called them over to her table where a tall, thin, blonde haired man was sitting. When they approached, Dee introduced Karen to Alex. He stood and waited for the girls to sit before he and Josh sat down. Moments later Brandon and Blaire joined them and they began to play Scattergories. Halfway through the game Lindy and her sister set out all the desserts on a buffet table towards the back of the room and Karen noticed people getting up and helping themselves to pumpkin pie, cheesecake, and various assortments of sweets and treats. Josh eyed the goodies and then licked his lips.
“Yummy!” He said and nudged Karen. Karen smiled at him.
“Well go on up there.” She said and thought about where the kids were and if they would like some dessert. She got up from the table and grabbed onto Josh’s hand before he could head for the table. “I’m going to see what the kids are up to and see if they want something. I’ll be back in a few.” He pulled her to him and kissed her lightly before she went in search of Ryan and Kelly. She came across Ashley and Carlie first, they were in one of the bedrooms on the first floor sitting and playing with a Barbie house, Barbies strewn over the carpet, clothes littering the dream house. Karen giggled. It reminded her very much of her own ‘dream’ house. The girls weren’t in the mood for dessert just yet.
“Do you know where Ryan and Kelly are?” Karen asked Carlie. Carlie nodded.
“They are downstairs in the basement.” Ashley said. Karen thanked her, kissed Carlie on the head and headed for the basement. As soon as she opened the door to the stairway she was assaulted by noise. Obviously they were playing video games and listening to music, it was so loud she could feel it reverberating through her entire body. She went down the stairs carefully, squinting into the darkness. The TV and a lamp in the back of the room provided the only light. There were several boys and a few girls sitting around the TV either playing the games or watching the ones who were. She found Ryan, he was sitting on his knees with a game controller in his hands, watching the screen with an intensity reserved for the professionals in a real match. She scanned the faces of the others looking for Kelly and when she didn’t find her searched the other rooms on the lower level. She found a bedroom and pushed the door open. It was very dark inside. She felt the wall beside the door jamb, found a light switch and clicked it on. Yellow light flooded the room and Karen saw it was empty. She turned the light off and left the room. Next there was a bathroom but it, too was empty. She found another bedroom; there was a closet light on in the room. She entered and didn’t see anyone but when she turned to go she heard a noise in the closet. Curious, she crept to the closet door and peeked in. What she saw shocked and slightly horrified her. Kelly sat in the closet with a boy, he held her face in one hand and the other was around her neck. They were kissing. Riveted to the spot, Karen watched, mortified as their lips pressed together, mouths sucking, breath coming faster. Her heart pounded in her chest. Her eyes darted from the two embracing on the floor and back to the door. She wasn’t sure what she should do. She bit her lip and then decided to clear her throat. As soon as she did two sets of very big, very wide eyes stared up at her.
“Mom!” Kelly exclaimed, her cheeks reddening. She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. Karen held out her hand and pulled Kelly up off the floor then she extended her hand to the boy who literally unfolded himself and stood to be nearly six feet tall. He was lanky and young looking yet sported blonde scruff all over his chin and upper lip. His light curls fell over his forehead and covered his eyes, which Karen was sure he did on purpose.
“Well, not that I don’t already know but what the hell is going on in here?” Karen said planting one hand on her hip. The boy glanced up at her through his hair, she saw a flash of his hazel eyes and then they dropped to the floor.
“Mom, we were just kissing.” Kelly said anxiously. Karen felt her temper flare and bit her tongue to keep from saying something she might regret. Instead she thought for a moment.
“You are only 12 years old young lady! And you …” She turned to the boy. “How old are you?”
“He’s 15.” Kelly said. Karen’s eyes blazed green tinged with anger as she turned on her daughter.
“He is not 15, Kelly, he’s got a beard! How old are you?” She snapped at the boy. He coughed then cleared his throat before answering.
“I’m 16.” He said.
“Did you know how young she was when you were fondling her and sucking her face?” Karen spat at him. His head dropped lower, ashamed. Her hand shook as she smoothed back her hair. “Well, what should I do with you two?” She asked, more to herself then to them. She was quiet for what seemed an eternity before she spoke. “Well, first you’re going to lead me to your parents …” She turned to the boy. “What’s your name?”
“Kevin.” He mumbled quietly, so quietly that Karen had to strain to hear him.
“And who are your parents?”
“John and Katie.” Karen sighed. She had no idea which of the couples they were but she would find them quickly.
“Go and get them, bring them back here.” She said and then stopped herself. “No! Kelly, you go get them and bring them here. Kevin will wait with me.” Kelly’s eyes opened wide and she started to protest.
“But I don’t know who …”
“Go get Josh! He’ll know who they are. Go!” She said loudly and pushed Kelly towards the door. Karen and Kevin stood alone in the room, an uncomfortable silence engulfed them. “Sit down, Kevin.” She said, finally. She was tired of standing too. She sat in a chair across from the bed and watched him as he sat; another handsome Groban boy worming his way into a young girl’s heart. She sighed as Kevin dropped his head into his hands and slid his fingers into his curls. She thought how unfair it is that these Groban boys have such luscious curly hair and all the women were saddled with the straight hair. She shook her head. Moments later Kelly appeared at the door with Josh in tow and Kevin’s parents right behind him. Josh flicked the light switch and flooded the room with light. Karen squinted and stood. Josh planted his hands on his hips.
“What’s up Karen?” He asked. She brushed past him to John and Katie.
“I just thought you should know I caught these two in the closet ummm …” She trailed off.
“What?” Katie asked, her brows furrowed in anger.
“We were just kissing Mom.” Kevin said.
“Get out of here Kevin.” John said pointing to the door. Kevin didn’t hesitate at that, he got right up and left the room.
“Kelly perhaps you should leave too.” Josh said to her. She sighed heavily.
“And stay away from Kevin too. Go by your brother and wait.” She rolled her eyes as she left the room and closed the door behind her. Josh ran a hand through his hair nervously.
“What did you see them doing?” John asked planting his hands on his hips in a traditional parental stance.
“They were sucking face is what they were doing.” Karen replied.
“And?” John urged her to give him more information.
“And that’s all they were doing.” He sighed.
“Thank God.”
“Well if that’s all they were doing …” Katie said, stepping in front of her husband. “Then that’s not bad.” Karen frowned.
“What do you mean, that’s not bad?” She uttered a spiteful laugh. “That is bad. She’s 12 and he’s 16!” John took a deep breath and let it out.
“It’s just kissing!” He said defensively. Karen felt her temper flare and did her best to control it but it was threatening to fly out of control.
“It could have been more!” She said loudly, not caring who heard.
“But it wasn’t!” Katie said. “Come on, Karen, lighten up!” Josh watched helplessly as Karen’s temper erupted.
“Lighten up? You’re supposed to be his parents, you’re supposed to be as upset about this as I am and punish him! I have a feeling it won’t go any further once we leave this room!” Josh pulled Karen close, his goal was to calm her some. John and Katie looked at each other and shook their heads.
“Maybe it was your daughter that started it. Have you considered that?” Karen pulled away from Josh, too angry to be near anyone at that point.
“Yeah, I have and whether or not she started it she’s going to be punished for it. Apparently I’ve made a mistake by coming to you. I mean, damn you’re only his parents after all.” She walked away and towards the door.
“Well what did you expect? I mean, look at your relationship. You’re dating a man who’s young enough to be your son!” John said. Karen turned quickly and glanced at Josh who was now angry too.
“How dare you?” He said to John. “This relationship has nothing to do with your son molesting her daughter! You take that back right now!” He spat. John uttered a laugh.
“No, little Josh, I don’t think I will. You’ve made a joke out of this family lately, I think it’s you who needs to apologize. It was then Karen noticed that Josh’s fists were balled up tight, so tight his knuckles were turning white. She quickly stepped in front of Josh. She placed her hands on his chest. He was breathing so hard he was panting.
“Don’t do it, Josh, it’s not worth it.” She said quietly. He glared at John then his eyes darted back and forth between his two cousins.
“What are you going to do, hit me?” John taunted. “Come on. I dare ya.” He said with a laugh. Karen saw Josh’s muscles in his arms tense and pushed him backwards towards the door.
“Don’t Josh. Don’t let him goad you into fighting with him. It will turn out very bad in the end.” Josh looked down at Karen and felt himself relax slightly. She took his hand and unballed his fist, their eyes locking. “It’s not worth it sweetie, it’s not.” She whispered. He slid his arms around her neck and hugged her tightly. John headed towards the door.
“Yeah, I thought so.” He muttered. “You always were a pussy.” Right as he passed Josh he stuck his foot out. John kicked Josh’s foot, stumbled and toppled onto the floor. John was on his feet in a heartbeat, his face red with a mixture of anger and embarrassment. Katie ran over to him and inspected him for damage. “You asshole.” John said before turning and leaving the room. Once they were gone Karen and Josh began to giggle. They fell into each other, laughing so hard they had tears in their eyes. When Kelly and Ryan appeared at the door they straightened.
“Get your stuff together, we’re leaving.” Josh said to them and sent them away with a wave of his hand. When they were alone again Josh wrapped his arms around Karen and held her tightly. “I’m so sorry.” He whispered into her ear. She held him at arm’s length.
“I’m sorry too, that guy made me so mad. I know he’s your cousin and all but it just made me nuts to know that he wasn’t going to do a damned thing about it.”
“I know, I know.” He replied. “Let’s get going.” Josh pulled her by the hand out of the room and up the stairs. He found his mother in the den with the other relatives and pulled her out into the hallway.
“We’re leaving.” He told her once they were safely out of earshot. Her eyes opened wide, questioning.
“Why? What happened?” Josh gave her the Reader’s Digest condensed version of what went on down in the basement. She frowned and sighed. “John is an idiot and so is his wife.”
“Well, I think Karen would like to get the kids out of here and avoid any more incidences.” Lindy nodded.
“I don’t blame her. Before you go let me get you guys some food to take with you.” Josh stopped her with a hand on her shoulder.
“No, Mom.” He said. “Why don’t we just get together tomorrow or Saturday and have dinner?” She smiled and nodded.
“Okay.” She said.

Josh waited with Karen at the front door until his parents met him there where he hugged them and kissed them goodbye then they made their way quickly out and into the van. The ride home was eerily quiet as both Josh and Karen fumed about the situation Kelly had gotten them into. Once home, Ryan retreated to his area in the living room and Kelly and Carlie went into their room. Josh went straight to the kitchen and grabbed two beers. He popped off the caps and handed one to Karen. She took a large swig and sighed. They sat down at the table in the kitchen and looked at each other.
“I suppose I should go talk to her.” Karen said finally, breaking the silence. Josh nodded.
“Unless you want me to. She might feel more comfortable talking to someone who’s not her parent.” He raised his eyebrows in question. She shook her head.
“No, I’m going to try first.” Karen got up from the table, took another large swig of beer, burped and then headed towards the guest bedroom of Josh’s condo. She knocked softly before walking in. Both Kelly and Carlie were sitting on the bed, Carlie reading a book, Kelly listening under her headphones. She patted Carlie’s feet and asked her to go out by Josh while she talked to Kelly. Carlie slid off the bed and exited the room closing the door behind her. Kelly took off the headphones and sniffled. Her eyes were red and teary. Karen sat down at the foot of the bed and sighed.
“I know what you’re going to say already, Mom.” Kelly said and sniffled again. Karen sighed.
“What am I going to say, Kel?” She asked, a hint of sarcasm in her already tense voice.
“How ashamed you are of me.” Kelly said quietly. Karen made a face and shook her head.
“No, that’s not what I was going to say.”
“Then what?”
“How disgusted I am at you. What in the world made you do that?” She turned to her daughter and frowned. “And don’t tell me it was all him because you have been acting funny for a few weeks now. I have a feeling it’s that new girl from school you’ve been hanging around with lately.” Kelly’s eyes opened wide and she opened her mouth to speak but stopped. “Well?” Karen prodded.
“I don’t know what made me do it. I just thought he was cute.” Karen sighed. That didn’t sound like her daughter at all. Now she was convinced that it had to have been some sort of outside influence.
“Cute?” Karen asked. “Yeah, cute is one thing, making out like you were is completely another.” Kelly looked up at her mother through her lashes and eyebrows, her knees tucked up under her chin, her arms hugging her knees. Karen thought she saw a smirk on her face but with it buried in her legs she wasn’t positive. “You know kissing as they say, is harmless but it’s what kissing leads up to that could’ve gotten you into huge trouble and possibly gotten that boy arrested.” Kelly didn’t look up at Karen this time. “Not to mention what would have happened had things progressed and you ended up pregnant?” Kelly sighed, disgusted.
“Mom, it wasn’t going to go any further.” Karen felt anger welling up inside her and for a moment thought that maybe Josh was right, maybe she shouldn’t be the one to have this talk with her daughter. She grit her teeth and looked at the door hoping and praying for composure.
“Kelly … you can’t be sure things wouldn’t have gone any further. You were alone in a closet for Heaven’s sake with a 16 year-old boy! As much as your hormones are telling you that kissing a ‘hot’ boy is stimulating, the boy’s hormones are twice as crazy as yours. Sometimes …” She pointed a finger at her daughter who watched out of the corner of her eye. “boys who are … excited by kissing like that have to take it further because their brain is telling them to and then when you change your mind and say no they don’t listen. He was a hell of a lot bigger then you and could have gotten you down on the floor quicker then you could say …” She searched for a word but ‘oatmeal’ was the only thing she could come up with in her angered state. Kelly nodded her understanding. Karen sighed and pulled her daughter into her arms. “I love you, honey, and I just don’t want to see anything happen to you. Can you understand that at least?” Kelly wrapped her arms around Karen and began to cry into her blouse. Karen smoothed her hair and held her tightly.
“I understand, Mom. And I’m sorry if I ruined your holiday.”
“You didn’t, Kel.” Karen lied.
“Is Josh mad at me?”
“Not that I know of. I think he’s more mad at Kevin.” Kelly nodded. She didn’t want Josh to be angry with her.
“He’s not a bad guy, mom. I might have led him on, he may have gotten the wrong signals from me.”
“Don’t blame yourself, sweetie. Things will be fine. You just have to be careful about sexual situations. You don’t want to get yourself into something you can’t back out of.” Kelly sniffled and pulled back. Karen wiped off Kelly’s cheeks and smiled.
“I won’t.” Kelly said. Karen leaned forward and kissed her daughter’s puffy, tear-filled lips.
“Good.” She got up from the bed and went to the door. “And you get to spend the rest of the night in here. If there’s something you want you’ll have to ask and that’s no guarantee that you’ll get it.” Kelly made to protest and Karen held up her hand. “If you say another word you will be punished further.” She said and left the room.

The house was finally dark and quiet. Karen lay peacefully in Josh’s arms, his fingers laced with hers.
“I’m sorry about today.” She said silently. He kissed the side of her head.
“Don’t be.”
“I just went and made a huge rift in your family. They are all talking about us now, more then they did before.” She sighed. Josh pulled her hand to his mouth and kissed it warmly. He had just made love to her, slowly, tenderly, sensually … he let the tips of his fingers roam her firm body, his lips kissed her anywhere, everywhere … and when he entered her she was warm and wet. He held himself there, savoring the feeling before he began his rhythm. He leaned down to her tonight, hands on either side of her head, holding her there, watching what went on in her eyes as he pleasured her and what he saw, or what he thought he saw were the burning embers of love, a deep and unbreakable bond between them. It seemed to heighten his desire and when he reached his peak it was with such intensity that his whole body shook. Afterwards he lay trembling and lightheaded in Karen’s arms. If she noticed she didn’t say. Now she was bringing up the day, something he had already forgotten and he didn’t want to go back to. He wanted to bask in the whirling afterglow and then fall asleep with his arms around her and dream of pleasantries. The horror of the day now came flooding back into his consciousness and he sighed.
“Karen,” He began, patiently. “Let’s not think about it now. Let’s hold each other and go to sleep. I’m tired and I feel really good, I want to drift off just like that.” He pulled her closer and when she made to open her mouth he clamped her lips together with his fingers and then kissed them. She giggled. “Shhhh …” He whispered and closed his eyes; a perfect end to an awful day.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Christmas for Ryan, Kelly, and Carlie couldn’t come fast enough. And it didn’t help that every week Josh sent 3 or 4 more packages for them in the mail. The living room was chock full of gifts and Karen didn’t know what to do with them anymore. The kids were dying to open them and every day was torture. It was the only way she could keep them in line anymore, threatening to take them away. Now and then she would find one or two in the mail for her and it was making her crazy! Mostly they were in small boxes but she was grown up enough to know that things that came in small boxes usually cost a lot of money! Not only did she feel she didn’t deserve expensive gifts like that but she couldn’t match them or give him anywhere near what he’d already given to her in airfare alone! They had already made plans for the holidays, based around the kid’s Christmas break schedule and Josh’s personal appearance schedule. Following the Thanksgiving fiasco, Josh finished recording and began working on mixing and editing. He was keeping himself very busy so he wouldn’t have to go home and hear about how he almost tore his mother and her sister apart and how the family was talking about him and Karen behind his back to Chris and his parents. The only ones from his extended family who called him after that was Alex and Dee. Dee called to get Karen’s number so she could call her. That made Josh happy. He was glad to see at least someone out of the family cared. The plan was that the family was going to come out for New Year’s Eve since Josh was committed to do a Christmas show. Karen and the kids were to fly out the day after Christmas and stay until New Year’s where they would celebrate in L.A. Josh was a bit distraught that he wouldn’t be spending Christmas Day with Karen and Karen felt the same since the kids would be with their father on that day so she would be spending it alone. Josh wouldn’t be alone, he would be with an entourage of people that he liked but didn’t necessarily want to spend his holiday with. Dee and Karen kept in touch through the month, Dee told Karen about the humility that John and Katie suffered after that awful Thanksgiving Day. Karen was relieved to know that Kevin had been punished and had his brand new Mustang taken away temporarily. Karen had a good laugh at that but hey, it was something. Dee also told Karen about the women who were constantly trying to get to Josh, not only through the management but through the family as well. Poor Chris was suffering from multiple heartbreaks from girls who were trying to get to Josh through him. Karen’s heart went out to him and ached to be with Josh. She wasn’t afraid that Josh would take any of the girls up on their offers but the temptation was always there, was it not?

Christmas Eve the kids packed their suitcases. After they finished Karen let them open presents. There was much screaming when the kids opened up a boat load of expensive presents from Josh. Her ‘ex’ picked them up after dinner and the one consolation Karen had was that the kids would have a rotten time at HIS house after opening up all of the presents Josh had sent them. When they were gone she closed the front door, locked it and leaned against it. That was when she started to giggle. The giggles turned into tears of laughter and finally, as she dragged herself into her cold, empty bedroom alone they turned to tears of loneliness. She undressed and crawled into bed, settled herself under the covers and waited for Josh to call.

The phone rang, startling her out of a sound sleep.
“Did I wake you?” Josh whispered. Karen glanced at the clock, it was nearly 2.
“No, umm I mean, yeah.” She swallowed a few time to moisten her throat. Josh sighed on the other end.
“I shouldn’t have called this late, I’m sorry honey.” Karen rubbed her eyes.
“No! No, I’m glad you called.” Her eyes were crusted with dry tears. “I miss you terribly.”
“I just finished up with the taping and the interviews. There was a stupid party David made me attend.” He sighed. “I didn’t want to go. Now I’m really tired.”
“Go to bed, Josh, we can talk in the morning.” Karen said sleepily.
“No. I need to talk to you right now.” He said quietly.
“Why, is something wrong?” Karen sat up and placed her hand on her chest and clutched her nightgown. With the distressed sound of his voice and the fact that he said he needed to talk to her, she feared the worst. Perhaps there was a woman at this party …
“No, nothing’s wrong. I just miss you. I should be there right now. And here I sit. Like a cad.” She ached to hold him right then. She looked down at the blanket and traced little circles on the top.
“I miss you too, and yeah, you should be here but you can’t. We will be together soon.”
“Yeah, well not soon enough. I wanted to be there Christmas morning when you wake up so I could kiss you and wish you a Merry Christmas.” Karen felt the tears welling up behind her eyes again. She wished them away.
“I wish for that too Josh, but it can’t be so it’ll have to be next Christmas.” He was silent. “Josh?”
“I’m here.” He paused. “I’m just tired.” She wiped the tears that escaped from under her lids and trickled down her cheek.
“Go to bed sweetie and we’ll talk in the morning.” There was no answer. “Josh?”
“I’m here.” He said softly.
“Go-to-sleep.” She directed.
“I-don’t-want-to.” He said adamant.
“I’m going to hang up then. You’re too tired to talk.” He sighed.
“Okay, okay.” After a few more minutes of talking they hung up and Karen lay awake for a long time after staring at the dark ceiling.

Christmas morning was like any other morning for Karen. She woke up early but lay in bed until she fell asleep again only to wake up an hour later. She opened one eye and glanced at the clock. 9AM. She raised her arms above her head and tucked them underneath her pillow and lay staring straight up until she felt herself drift off again. The next time she woke she forced herself to sit up. She couldn’t lay in bed any longer. Her arms were numb from sleeping on them. She pulled the covers off her legs and swung them over the side of the bed. She shook her arms to stimulate blood flow and get the feeling back in them. She grabbed her robe off the chair next to the bed, slid it on and stuck her feet into her slippers. She headed down the hallway to the kitchen. Something wasn’t right. She smelled coffee. She was positive she hadn’t set the coffee maker to brew this morning. Her heart sped up and she headed into the kitchen quickly. Josh stood, his back to her, and when he heard her coming down the hall he turned and smiled. She ran to him and leaped into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist, her arms encircled his neck. He hugged her tight and spun her around.
“Josh!” She squealed. “You little stinker, you!” She scolded before their lips met for a long awaited, much needed kiss.
“This wasn’t planned Karen.” He said as they finally broke apart and he set her down on the floor but didn’t let go of her.
“Sure it wasn’t.” He shook his head.
“No. I couldn’t stand not being able to see you today. I can’t stay long, I still have a commitment tonight.” His eyes saddened as he looked at her. She toyed with the curls that hugged the base of his neck.
“Oh God, Josh, why did you come? I can’t believe you did that!” She tried to look serious but a smile crept over her face and she lit up. He leaned down and kissed her holding her face in his hands.
“That’s why. That smile you just had on your beautiful face. I would give everything I have away to see you smile like that every single day.” She ran her hands up the sleeves of his bulky, soft, green sweater to his shoulders and rested her arms there. He put one arm around her back and the other under her legs and lifted her into the air. She giggled as he walked her back down the hall and to the bedroom where he lay her on the bed. She was up onto her knees immediately pulling at the sweater and tugging it over his head. Her fingers fumbled with the buttons of the shirt he had on underneath as his mouth found hers and kissed her hungrily. She pulled open his shirt and ran her hands up and down his soft, furry chest. He pulled off the shirt and wrapped his warm arms around her, his hands sliding down her back then up and underneath her nightie. He moaned as he ran his hands from underneath her buttocks, up her back and then down again. She kissed down the side of his scruffy face to his chin then down onto his neck. He tilted his head sideways to allow her access to him. She nibbled at him sensually as she unbuttoned and unzipped his jeans. He wore nothing underneath. She gasped as she felt his hardness protruding from where his jeans lay open. She tugged the pants down over his hips and they fell to the floor. She took him into her hands as she sunk her teeth into his neck. Josh groaned as he worked his fingers between her legs. She opened herself for him and he slid them inside. She was so wet and slick, he wiggled them at her opening and within minutes she was tensing up in anticipation of release.
“Oh God, Josh.” She moaned. He withdrew his fingers not wanting her to climax just yet then eased her down onto the bed. He knelt down next to the bed and draped her legs over his shoulders. She gasped as his mouth came down on her, licking her, sucking at her, kissing her. He moved his tongue in circles around her sweet spot, he knew exactly where it was and she groaned. Once she slid her fingers into his hair it was the sign that she was about to let herself go. He let her have her pleasure and once she stopped pulsating against him, stood up and slid himself inside her easily. He apologized for not being able to go slow and take his time. He made love to her quickly and roughly, his body wanting to posses her, to pull himself inside her and take up residence there. His mind went blank and all he knew at that moment in time was the ecstasy of being with Karen and being inside her. He saw stars under his lids as he let himself go inside her and finally, spent, collapsed on top of her. She ran her fingers through his hair until he pulled himself up and smiled.
“Merry Christmas, darling.” He said and kissed her. She giggled.
“What a present!” She said as he climbed into the bed next to her and pulled her into his arms.
“Oh, I’m just warming up.” He said and laughed.

Josh and Karen lay together in the bed, neither of them wanting to get up into the chilly room. They were content to just lie there, arms wrapped around each other, sighing and kissing.
“So I saw you didn’t open the presents I sent you.” He said breaking the silence.
“I couldn’t open them without you.” He sighed.
“Yes you could have. I wanted you to.” She looked at him, her eyes softening.
“I know, but I couldn’t.” She said quietly.
“You can now.” He winked. She smiled at his chocolate brown eyes curled up at the ends.
“If you want me to.” He nodded. She made to get up but he stopped her.
“I’ll get them and give them to you in the order I want you to open them.” He climbed out of bed and slipped naked into the living room, scooped up the four boxes and brought them back to the bed. He crawled back under the covers with her and then examined the boxes. “Shit, I can’t remember which is which.” He said staring at them. A long, thin box he set aside. “I know what that one is but these …” He weighed them in his hands and then set two down and held one out to her. She took it from him and tore open the package with care. Josh stared anxiously.
“What are you doing?” He asked. She giggled.
“I’m opening it.” He shook his head.
“That’s not how you open presents!” He said, grabbed the box and tore the paper off in one swift movement. He held in his hand a little blue box. Karen gasped. “That’s how you open them.” He held the box out to her. Her hand trembled as she reached for it. There was only one thing that was nestled inside a box of this color and that was jewelry. She opened the top of the box gingerly and stared at the contents inside.
“Oh, Josh, you shouldn’t have!” She exclaimed. He grinned and crossed his legs Indian style. She touched the beautiful greenish-purple stone gently and smiled at him. “It’s so gorgeous! What kind of stone is it?” He took the box from her and removed the necklace with the teardrop-shaped stone and hooked it around her neck.
“It’s called Alexandrite.” He said as he fastened the clasp. It lay softly against her bare chest. She got up off the bed and looked at it in the mirror.
“Oh God, it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.” She sighed as she moved it this way and that, watching the colors change in the light. She slid back onto the bed next to him and pressed her lips against his for a kiss.
“It pales in comparison to you. Here …” He handed her the next box hoping it wasn’t the one he wanted her to open last. She made to open it slowly again and he eyed her. She ripped into it and threw the paper behind her on the floor. He laughed.
“Very good!” He said. She held another blue box in her hand.
“Josh, oh my God!” She felt her breath catch in her chest and found herself taking deep breaths just to get oxygen. He took the box from her, peeked into it and then, once he found it was the right box, handed it back.
“Okay, it’s the right one, go ahead.” She flipped open the top and inside was a pair of matching teardrop Alexandrite earrings. She looked at him and smiled. “Put them on!” He said, excited. She bit her bottom lip as she hooked the earrings into the holes in her ears and then fastened the safety clasp. “They are very rare, Alexandrites.” He said, handing her the next box. “Most of them you see today are fake, well not fake but manufactured.” He ripped the paper off of the last blue box and held it in his hand. He pulled her close. He felt his breathing speed up with anticipation. “Karen,” He began as he looked into her eyes, they were as green as the Alexandrite she wore around her neck. “In the short time that we have spent together, I just want you to know that I have had the best time in my whole life.” She smiled. “You are so different from anyone that I have dated or even spent a good amount of time with. You are so patient and kind. You are my best friend and my truest lover. When you’re near I am at peace, when we’re apart I feel like there’s a large chunk of me missing but I can sleep well at night knowing that you’re not that far and that I will see you again and you will be there for me like you always are. I trust you and I trust myself when I’m not with you. You love me for me, and unlike any relationship I’ve had in the last six years I know you don’t love me, the singer, but you love me, Josh. And, as girly as it sounds, it’s nice to be with someone who doesn’t always look to me for the answers, or to make the decisions. It’s refreshing. And even when I look my crappiest you don’t care because you don’t love the Josh who wears a suit and sings Italian love songs, you love the Josh who belches after drinking beer and who isn’t always eloquent or diplomatic. The stupid Josh who almost hit his cousin …” His cheeks tinged pink and Karen smiled. “And, like the mature, intelligent, confident woman you are, smartly talked me out of it.” She giggled. He opened the box and took her left hand. On it he slipped an Alexandrite ring. It slid easily onto her middle finger. Karen felt tears brimming onto her lower eyelid, her bottom lip trembled. Josh’s eyes were slightly damp as well. He curled her hand into his and attempted a smile, it ended up lopsided. She giggled again. “This ring is my promise to you that we will be together always, in friendship and in love. Because Karen,” His eyes searched hers for any sign of discomfort but found repose. “I love you.” He whispered. Karen lunged at him, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him. She kissed his mouth, his nose, his cheeks, his forehead, his neck. He laughed while she went on a kissing spree. They tumbled over onto the bed and he climbed on top of her. He leaned down and kissed her again, this time slowly and with feeling.
“Josh,” Karen said as he pulled back.
“Hmmm?” He asked.
“I love you, too.” She said. He smiled.
“That’s good to hear.” He said and raised his eyebrows at her. She giggled. “Now what do I get?” He asked. She wrapped her legs around his waist.
“Anything you want!” She said.

Josh pulled his sweater back down over his head and tried to smooth the curls that struck straight up from his head, electrified with static. He frowned into the mirror.
“What the hell is going on here?” He asked and smacked his head a few times. This time the hair stuck to the bottom of his hand. While Karen snapped and zipped her jeans, out of the corner of her eye watched as Josh played with the hair that stuck straight up from his head onto the palm of his hand. “This shit’s crazy!” He laughed. Karen giggled and pulled a Henley over her head.
“You are a nut.” She said coming up behind him, licking her palm and smoothing down the curls. He made a face in the mirror.
“Thanks, mom.” He teased. She squeezed him tightly. He pretended he was going to throw up and she released him.
“I wish you could stay and come with us tomorrow.” Karen said heading out to the living room. Josh followed.
“I know but I have that Christmas concert tonight otherwise I would.” He checked his watch and saw that it was a quarter to two. The limo would be there in fifteen minutes to pick him up and take him to the airport. He sighed and pulled Karen into his arms.
“Thank you for coming.” She said quietly. He raised one eyebrow and winked.
“At least four times.” He said and then laughed. She smacked his shoulder.
“You goof!” He leaned forward and kissed her, his mouth lingering. She pulled back. “Don’t start that.” She warned. He grinned.
“But I could do it again.” She held his arm up and shoved his watch under his nose.
“Not in ten minutes you couldn’t.”
“Wanna bet?” She shook her head, her earrings dangling against her chin. Josh smiled and then remembering something he ran back to the bedroom. He found the long, slim box on the bed in the covers and brought it back out to Karen. He held it up to her.
“Not another one?” He made her kiss him before he would give it to her.
Just then the limo pulled into the driveway. Josh grabbed his coat and put it on. He pulled Karen into his arms and kissed her once more, very deeply.
“Yes it’s another one, but it’s cheap.” He headed towards the door. Karen followed him. Before he walked out he turned and hugged her tightly. “I’ll see you tomorrow for dinner.” He kissed her and with that he was gone. She watched as he climbed into the limo and backed out the drive. She held the box in her hand for a long time before tearing into it. Her eyes opened wide when she saw the bracelet he’d given her.
“Oh my God!” She gasped. It was a tennis bracelet adorned with ¼ carat diamonds. She pulled it out of the box and slipped it on her wrist then she grabbed her phone and called Josh on his cell. He answered it laughing.
“Cheap?” She cried. He laughed again.
“Yeah, it was cheaper then the other stuff. It’s something you can wear everyday.”
“Oh God, Josh no!”
“Oh God, Karen yes! It’s not diamonds. I know you think they are.”
“They aren’t?” She turned her wrist backward and forward. The stones shimmered.
“No! They are white sapphires. Aren’t they beautiful?” She looked closely at the stones and they were even more beautiful then diamonds.
“Josh, you are so awesome!” He chuckled.
“I know.” She sighed.
“I packed all your gifts. You’ll get them tomorrow.”
“MmMMmm …” He moaned. “I got what I wanted today.” She sighed again.
“You’re impossible!”
“Am I?”
“Yes. And thank you again, it was the best surprise seeing you today.”
“I thought you’d like it. I even wore a green sweater for you.” She giggled.
“It was awesome. I can’t wait to see you tomorrow.” He sighed.
“Me too.” They hung up after a few more minutes and Karen bounded into the bedroom to finish packing her suitcase.
- 6
- 7
- 8
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

My December