Rising Above~Wyatt's Story

Chapter 14 ~ Rise Above This

2011-05-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

Take the night and darken everything around me
Call the clouds and listen closely, I'm lost without you

Call your name everyday, when I feel so helpless
I'm fallen down but I'll rise above this, rise above this

~ Seether

University: Wyatt's Rental ~ 6:12PM

Wyatt studied his reflection in the mirror. What he saw however was not a young man dressing for a date, but the young man he became these past few years spent in college. It had been a tumultuous senior year for him but Wyatt was finally moving forward. Just last year Jason had graduated and soon he and Jett would be graduating. Wyatt thought back to the party they had thrown for Jason.

One Year Earlier

"I wish you would change your mind about moving out after graduation. We could focus on our music; work on booking some gigs, small tours, things like that."

Jason glanced over at Kes and the feelings he had for her lit his face. "Yeah I thought about that but living here but...I'm thinking...I'm going to ask Kes to marry me."

Wyatt tried to mask his anxiety. "Marry Kes? Come on J, you are still young. Is that what you really want? Look what happened with your mom and dad. Look at mine. They married young and look where they are now. You think she will be happy following you around on the road?"

Jason folded his arms and glared at Wyatt. His expression was humorless. "She can if she wants. If she doesn't, if she wants to open her own bistro I'll support it, get her started. I am not my father Wy. I might make mistakes but marrying Kes would not be one of them. I love her. And since you brought it up...you aren't Cooper. You do not need to live his life either. Our dads opened the doors but we do not have to choose to walk in their shadow. We make our own music."

Of course, J had been right about all of it. He and Kestral were both happy, the band was thriving and Wyatt was soon to graduate himself. Jett had gotten his sometime girlfriend Lorrah pregnant and they had moved into a smaller rental. Jett had not been thrilled about changing his lifestyle but after a long talk that, according to Jett, was more of an ultimatum from his parents, they moved in together. Jett had drawn the line at marrying her. Lorrah seemed okay with it...for now.

Wyatt looked around the place before heading toward the door. The house seemed so empty and quiet. He experienced so many things at this rental. He made mistakes, made bad choices, and fell in love. The most important thing was that he finally figured out who he was. The ghosts from his past were gone, buried, and he was ready to move forward. Wyatt was his own man. Jason would be proud if not a bit smug at that admission. Wyatt was not his father. He could live with that.

Oceanside: Echo Restaurant ~ 8:23PM

He arrived right on time. Expecting to meet the mysterious Mrs. J. Michaels at Echo, he looked around. She would be wearing a blue dress, she said. Wyatt had spoken to her over the phone after the auction committee had given him the details of his date. Her contact information had been included in those details. Wyatt could not place the voice and even though he still felt a bit strange over her identity, he let it go. The last thing he wanted was to seem paranoid. What was he going to say? “Do I know you from somewhere?” That sounded cheesy.

Wyatt saw her, or at least he assumed it was her, standing near the window. He approached her quietly and then tentatively resting his hand on her shoulder he said her name.

"Hello Wyatt." She turned around and Wyatt froze where he stood. He felt as though he had been punched in the stomach with a fist made of painful memories.

"Is this some kind of joke Mrs. Michaels?"

"Of course not; I bought the date because I wanted to see you again. I wanted to apologize for everything and I doubt you would have seen me if I had asked."

Of all the people Wyatt could have imagined his date would turn out to be, the last person he considered was Bailey Walker. Seeing her again brought all those emotions flooding back. "What's with the fake name?" Was Wyatt really going to consider hearing her out and finishing this date? He did admit he was curious - he thought he had loved her once.

They sat at a table reserved for them by the auction committee. "The name is not a fake. You must remember James..." Bailey hesitated and then added, "Professor Michaels? We were married shortly after I left the music department at the university. We opened a small music school for children that I run while he teaches; it has been doing quite well. I suppose that was another thing I wanted you to know - that I had no hard feelings about losing that university position."

Dinner was a blur for Wyatt but he managed to get through it. She asked him to dance with her. Reluctantly, he agreed. Holding her close like this reminded him of that first time with her. They had made love all night and Wyatt could not get enough of her.

"For what it is worth Wyatt, I did love you back then. Your father was wrong about that part but it was for the best that I let you believe otherwise. I would have hurt you more in the end by staying with you."

Wyatt agreed to finish their date and they took a limo to the marina where they boarded a boat that cruised around the bay. They talked about trivial things, classes, her school, and his band. When the cruise was over, Wyatt and Bailey headed back to Echo where they would part ways, one more chapter ending.

"This was nice, especially since I was able to apologize and explain things. Be well, Wyatt." Bailey kissed him lightly on the cheek, gave him one last lingering smile and left.

University: Wyatt's Rental ~ 2:16AM

He could still smell Bailey's perfume on his clothes. Flipping on the light Wyatt removed them, tossed the clothes on the floor beside his bed and pulled on sweats and a t-shirt. The drive back from Echo had taken a lot longer than he expected. What time was it, 2AM? He should call Cade. Even though she said she did not care about the date Wyatt knew her, knew she would still be up. Just then, his cell began to vibrate. Wyatt looked at the caller ID and smiled.

"Your timing is perfect! I was just going to call you." Wyatt could listen to her talk all night but he had something else in mind, something else that he would much prefer doing with her.

"Yeah, I just got home and changed...I was thinking about coming over to see you. Is that all right?"

When Cadence asked about his date, Wyatt laughed. "You'll never believe it. You know what; I will fill you in on all the gory details when I get there okay? He hesitated as his heart flooded with deep emotion, a strong need to reveal those emotions to her catching him off guard.

"Cadence...I love you."

Wyatt disconnected with a quick tap and grinned. He should probably shower. No, he would shower with Cadence instead. That would be infinitely more fun. Maybe after graduation he could stay in his rental on campus, stay close to Cadie. As he prepared to grab a change of clothes, the doorbell rang. Wyatt laughed and thought, "I should have known you would be calling from outside my door."

Wyatt hurried down but when he got to the door, no one was there. "What the hell?" Stepping outside, he slowly walked toward the street and peered into the carport. Walking farther out to the sidewalk, he looked to his right. Cadence always parked near that corner; the streetlight that lit that side of the street made her feel safer. No one was there, no car, no Cadence. Had he heard it right, was it the doorbell? Maybe it was nothing, just his imagination, but the hairs on his arms rose.

Turning back, Wyatt pulled out his cell phone to call Cadence when he heard the sound of an engine revving. Tires screeched and the headlights of a speeding car blinded him.

Author's Note:
This chapter closes Wyatt's Story. Further updates will be posted at Studio Time. This blog will no longer be updated. To the readers who followed Rising Above, thank you so much.

Chapter 13 ~ Witchy Woman

2010-06-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

Raven hair and ruby lips
Sparks fly from her finger tips
Echoed voices in the night
She's a restless spirit on an endless flight

Witchy Woman ~ The Eagles

University Quad - 1:47PM
"I hope you don't bring all your dates here."

Wyatt took a long pull on his coffee as he watched Gemma uncomfortably settle into her chair. He remained thoughtful as students hurried past them heading to and from classes. "This isn't exactly a date. Besides, mid-terms are going on right now; this seemed like a good place to meet on short notice."

Gemma leaned in, her coffee untouched, and smiled curiously. "Why are you bothering to finish? Do you really think you need a degree to be a rock star? Wyatt you have the world at your fingertips and you are spending four years obtaining something you will never use. With your pedigree doors would open without you so much as lifting a fist to knock."

"There is more to it than performing and tours. The business side is just as important." Wyatt smiled wryly at Gemma before continuing, "I wouldn't want some shifty agent absconding with my hard earned money now would I? At some point I'll want to do it like my dad. Have a studio or a label and give young bands an opportunity."
"But Wyatt you'll get that from Cooper one day. You don't think he would take you into the business as a partner?"

"He has a partner, Slim, and besides I have brothers and sisters that are just as entitled to it as I am. Maybe I'll want to make my own way."

Gemma sat back, smug, studying him as if considering what to say. She finally took a sip of her coffee, grimaced and then shifted her eyes back to Wyatt. "If it is your own label you want, I know people who can help with that. You aren't even signed with Hitman which surprises me. Why would your father fail to insure he has you in the fold I wonder?"

"I'm not worried about it.""You should be. Why should you only have a fifth or even a smaller piece of the pie when you can have a much larger cut someplace else? By the time Cooper and Slim slice the business up among their offspring, and who is to say they will do that, your creative and business control will be severely hindered. You know I represent Brew, it's no secret that Jimmy Breaux is uneducated and yes he has some issues to overcome but his talent is going take him far under my wing."

"So I should let you run my business instead of my father...and I would do that why?"

Gemma grinned broadly. "For a much larger slice of pie Wyatt!"
Laughing, Wyatt stood and offered his hand to Gemma. "I need to get to class."

She held onto his hand longer than he was comfortable with. "Maybe I overstepped a bit, you don't really know me after all. Come to my house for dinner and hear what I have to say? I'm sure your mother would want you to weigh all your options Wyatt. If you don't change your mind you will at least have something to think about. Just call me and we can set something up."

"Sure I can do that. Look I really do need to get going. I'll call you." Wyatt hugged her quickly and took off across the quad.

Millwood - North Lake Drive - 7:28PM
Millwood was a quiet suburb with large oak trees, colorful birches, and fragrant evergreens. Junipers graced the walkways leading to traditional homes that boasted well manicured lush lawns. Nothing much in the way of excitement ever happened in this upper middle class neighborhood their only real claim to fame was the Stanfield family who had lived there since the birth of their son Cooper. The home where the senior Stanfields lived was modest but well kept.

Wyatt stopped by one afternoon to visit his grandparents as he often did whenever he managed some time away from school. Now he was driving slowly through the narrow roads at dusk until he came to the small stucco house where Gemma Wilson lived.
Wyatt had been curious about her since Gemma's visit to the university so he gladly accepted her dinner invitation when she extended it. There were many things he wanted to know about her, about his mother, and about the distance between the cousins. If Julia ever mentioned her, Wyatt could not remember. Time as well as teenage distractions could have caused him to simply forget.
Approaching the front door Wyatt knocked and waited for her to let him in. "You made it! I was worried my directions may not have been too precise." Gemma embraced Wyatt, held him at arm's length and gave him the once-over with her gaze. "I hope you're hungry," she offered as Wyatt stepped into her entry. "I don't cook often so my repertoire is limited but what I can manage to prepare is pretty good."
The evening was warm with a clear evening sky so Gemma served Wyatt at a small table at the rear of the house. A bottle of Merlot, Gemma's favorite, sat open and breathing. Pouring them each a healthy glass they chattered on about Wyatt's school, music, his childhood, and his hopes for the future. "What I really would like to know is why my mother never mentioned you to me. You said you weren't close, why is that?"
Gemma rose and beckoned Wyatt to follow her into the house. Settling on the sofa she sat back as Wyatt settled at the other end. Thick, black lashes fanned against pale skin as she lowered her lids demurely and raised the wine glass to drink. Moistening her lips she leveled her eyes on Wyatt and answered. "My dad and Julia's father did not get along very well. They always competed in everything and had egos the size of Texas. I was a child when my father took us to La Jolla but I remember spending some time with Julia before we moved.
"We were polar opposites. Your mom was always a perfect little lady who was expected to take piano lessons and be proper. I was..." Gemma chuckled softly; it made her look younger, softer but a mischievous sparkle lit up her eyes. "I was incorrigible, definitely not a proper little girl. My mother died shortly after we relocated to California so my father raised me by himself. Having his influence, bringing me into his business endeavors as I got older shaped my future, made me ambitious."
Gemma waved her hand in the air as if she was brushing away at old memories before sliding her shapely legs along the couch and letting them rest on Wyatt's lap and changed topics. "I saw your father the other day at Hitman. He looked surprised to see me and not particularly pleased; I think I may have dredged up a few old memories."

Wyatt wondered what affect Gemma had on his father, what memories her likeness to his mother stirred good or bad. It was hard to gauge considering he walked away from Julia and his marriage. If Cooper had any residual feelings for his mother, would they resurface? In any case, Gemma was nothing like his mother beyond her looks. "Why would you go to see him?"
Her eyes narrowed slightly as if considering whether or not she wanted to answer. "I want him to sign Jimmy Breaux - Brew, have you heard of them? Unfortunately he was not convinced." Gemma wiggled her feet and sighed. "I went out on a very long limb and assured Jimmy of a deal. I'm probably going to lose him and I was counting on that contract to solidify my place in the industry. It isn't easy for a woman in this business - your sister could attest to that I'm sure."

At that moment the furthest thing from his mind was the desire to think about his sister. Wyatt dragged his eyes along the length of her body. Gemma was a very attractive woman. Having her legs resting seductively on his lap was distracting. Wyatt shifted slightly on the couch. "What are you going to do if you lose the deal?"
Sliding her legs under her, Gemma sat up and moved toward Wyatt like a cat toward a chew toy. "I guess I'll have to find another shining star."

Wyatt swallowed hard, amazed at the heat of desire that seemed to rise out of nowhere. He had to be insane. Was it wrong to find a distant cousin attractive particularly when she looked like your dead mother? Wyatt laughed uncomfortably. "Did you have someone in mind?"

"As a matter of fact, I do."

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NEXT CHAPTER: Passages 23

Chapter 12 ~ Away From the Sun

2010-05-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

Junior Year

In less than a few months Jason would be graduating and Wyatt would be entering his final year of college. More than once he considered leaving without finishing; Wyatt did not feel as if he needed a degree to do what he wanted but both his parents would want him to finish. However he did take advantage of the opportunity to enroll in some business courses. At the very least he would feel in control of everything that happened on the business side of the industry much like Jason did. More than one unsuspecting and trusting musician had fallen prey to the sharks out there that controlled their money; some even reaped most of the money for themselves.

While he liked the rental he shared with Jett and Jason, Wyatt looked forward to moving on. To that end he considered his mother's house as a temporary residence until he was ready to find something on his own. Wyatt believed he could live there for awhile especially since their plans included going on the road soon after graduation to cut their teeth. That meant they would not be there often. Jason could move in while Wyatt and Jett got through their last year.

Right now however, his goal was to meet his father near the marina. Wyatt had received a call from Coop who sounded distracted but firm as he requested Wyatt meet him downtown to discuss something important. This would be the perfect time to fill Cooper in on his plans for his mother's house, get the keys and check it out. Feeling pretty confident his father wouldn't like the idea, Wyatt was prepared to plead his case. The house was his anyway so any argument Cooper had was moot.

His father was waiting for him as Wyatt casually strode down the boardwalk. The unease in Cooper's voice was reflected in his expression as Wyatt approached him. His face was drawn, almost haunted, Wyatt noticed as he drew closer to his father. Increasingly concerned over the unease, Wyatt joined his father at a small table near the water and studied him.

"You look stressed Dad. Is everything all right with Rayne and the twins?" Pulling out his chair Wyatt sat, signaled the waiter and waited.

"Yeah, yeah everything's fine, relatively fine anyway. Wyatt I need to talk to you about something, someone that I ran into at the benefit. There is no delicate way to put it so I'm just going to come out with it. I ran into a woman, Gemma Wilson. Wyatt she's your mother's cousin."

Hesitating, Wyatt looked at his father carefully wondering why this information was important or warranted a face to face. "Okay, is there more to this?"

"Yeah there is. Look Wyatt I have every reason to believe she is going to try and contact you even though I asked her not to."

"Why would you do that?"

"She's the spitting image of Julia. I don't know how you would react to that Wyatt. If nothing else I wanted you to be prepared, that's all."

Wyatt looked out at the waves that crashed into the bluffs below the pier. The vision of his mother, her hair, her smile, all of it had never faded from his memory. Although he had moved past much of the pain and anger that he felt over her death Wyatt had finally come to terms with it. He understood his father's concern but wanted to reassure him that he would be fine. The last thing Cooper needed was one more thing to worry over.

"Thanks for letting me know, Dad. If I hear from her, I don't want you to worry. I can deal with it."

Cooper smiled, visibly relieved that he had at least been able to prepare Wyatt. "Good, I knew you could. It's just...it shook me up Wyatt; I didn't want her appearance to do the same to you."

His brows knit tightly as Wyatt assessed his father's demeanor. Clearly he was still shaken even though he did his best to hide it from him. Or maybe there was more at play here that his father wasn't telling him. "Dad, are you all right? If you need anything at all from me..."

Coop waved his concern off and grinned reassuringly, "Don't worry about me Wy. I can handle Gemma. Let's eat."

South Beach - Julia's House

Night had fallen by the time Wyatt reached his mother's old house. It wasn't the first time he had driven here; each time before however, he did not enter. Drawing a deep, steady breath he headed up the stairs and entered the house. Moonlight streamed into the windows, silver beams that cast an eerie glow over the near empty rooms. It was cold.

Tentatively Wyatt stepped out onto the balcony. It was definitely warmer outside than in the house but Wyatt still shivered as a slight breeze ruffled his hair against the back of his neck. The gardenia his mother had planted still bloomed and he could smell the sweet fragrance as it wafted up on the wind. He should have had the power turned on, he realized as he peered through the inky darkness that hovered over the pool. It may have been the shadows or the slow undulation of the pool that played tricks with his eyes but Wyatt swore he saw movement. He inhaled sharply as a lithe figure, painfully familiar, emerged from the darkness oblivious to his presence.

His father warned him about the eerie resemblance that Gemma Wilson had to his mother. Wyatt had been prepared to deal with it if he ran into her but he never expected the chills he felt crawling along his skin. Almost as if sensing his presence above her, Gemma looked up and locked eyes with him. Wyatt wanted to say something, anything, to break the silence but found he was unable to utter a word as he stared into a face that tore into his heart.

"May I come up?"

Nodding, Wyatt turned, walked toward the stairs and waited as she slowly ascended the stairs. The closer she got the more Wyatt noticed the subtle differences between Gemma and his mother. The tension in his body seemed to ease a little as Wyatt released the breath he hadn't noticed he was holding.

Gemma smiled warmly. "Wyatt," she began, "I have been looking forward to finally meeting you! I expected you to look like your father but I see a lot of Julia in you as well. I hope it's all right - may I hug you?" She reached out tentatively and Wyatt managed a friendly if not awkward embrace.

"What are you doing here - at my mother's house?"

"I had business in the area. I haven't been in town long and I thought I might take a drive up here and check it out. Millwood isn't exactly a bustling hub of activity; I thought if the place was empty..." Gemma stopped talking and examined Wyatt as if sizing him up. "You can't imagine how delighted I am that you happened to be here although I was planning to make the trip out to your campus. You're just about through with school aren't you?"

"Yeah one more year after this and that's it. Look, if you want we can go inside and talk." Wyatt wasn't sure what he should have expected with Gemma but she didn't seem like the barracuda that his father made her out to be. His first impression after the shock of seeing her was good. He liked her.

Gemma smiled broadly as she followed him into the house. "I'd like that Wyatt, very much."

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NEXT CHAPTER: Passages 19

Chapter 11 ~ More Than Words

2010-01-23T17:17:00.000-08:00

What would you do if my heart was torn in two
More than words to show you feel
That your love for me is real
What would you say if I took those words away
Then you couldn't make things new
Just by saying I love you

Christmas Eve - 10:48PM

Deciding against spending the night in Rockwood, Wyatt drove back to his rental. Christmas Eve had been intense and emotional. Even the twins had been subdued, Nate avoided him and Eric had been more quiet than usual. Wyatt knew his attempt at covering for Rayne had not gone over well with his dad but Cooper didn't push it for which Wyatt was grateful, not that either of them were off the hook. Wyatt would have to deal with all of it later. Right now he was tired and a hot shower and warm bed was all he wanted. The house was quiet; Jason and Jett were staying at Heydon's so Wyatt had the place to himself.

Wyatt emerged from the shower and headed back down to the living room to grab his guitar. Flipping on the Christmas lights he spied the small jewelry box under the tree, a gift for Cadence. Wyatt drew a quick breath but before he could react to the sadness he felt, there was a knock at the door. Hoping it was Cadie, he rushed over to answer it. Wyatt tried not to show his disappointment when he saw Lenore grinning back at him, that same enigmatic smile she always wore. She had managed to win Jason and Jett over becoming the drummer for Crux. Lenore had done surprisingly well and drew a fair amount of fans to their gigs.

"What's shakin' Wyatt? Merry Christmas!" she gave him a quick peck on the cheek and pushed past him into the living room.

"I figured you would have gone home for the holidays," Wyatt shut the door and followed her.

Lenore flopped down on the sofa and crossed her legs. Wyatt had to laugh; she really was so much like Alice's Cheshire cat. "There's no traditional Christmas for me since I don't have family to go home to so I decided to hang out on campus. I was trolling the streets and saw the lights so I thought I'd bring some holiday cheer to you guys. Are Jason and Jett upstairs?"

Wyatt shook his head. "They're at their dad's tonight. I guess they are spending tomorrow at their mom's."

"I see...so you've got the place to yourself. I suppose it's my responsibility then to make sure you put out the milk and cookies for Santa." She stood up and walked over to Wyatt standing close enough for him to feel mildly uncomfortable. He could smell the hint of brandy and nutmeg on her breath as she smiled up at him.

"Suit yourself. You can wait up in the kitchen. I'm going to go upstairs and put some clothes on."

Giggling softly Lenore followed him to the elevator. "You don't have to on my account." Wyatt turned to glare at her and she laughed tilting her head slightly, "I'm just sayin'..."

"Just wait up in the kitchen while I get dressed."

When Wyatt stepped off the elevator and into the kitchen he found Lenore seated casually on top of the counter eating a cookie. "These are good! Did you bake them?"

Wyatt folded his arms, he really didn't feel like playing games tonight, and smirked as he responded. "Beth made them. She sent a plate home with me. Look Lennie I don't feel like doing this...whatever this is we're doing...tonight. No games okay? I'm really not in the mood."

"I know you're not Wyatt. I'm just trying to cheer you up, no big deal." Lenore slipped off the counter and walked toward him twining her finger inside the waistband of his pants. "I'm lonely Wyatt. I just feel like some company. Don't you feel like some company too?" She moved closer to him sliding her hands along his thighs as she rested her head against his chest.

Lenore lifted her head and waited. Dipping his head closer Wyatt took her mouth with his and kissed her thoroughly. Damn she tasted good. He pulled her closer losing himself in the moment. When they finally came up for air they simply looked at each other for the longest time neither one breaking the silence or disturbing the mood until Lenore smiled. "We can take this to your room if you want...no strings."

Wyatt hesitated smiling as he studied the curve of her lips, the way they parted slightly and lifted at the edges, the twinkle in her eyes. It would be so easy to just take her. That was what he wanted; freedom to explore his options, no commitments, no one to get hurt so that when he finally settled down it would be out of his system. He and Lenore could screw each other all night and into Christmas morning. It would be so easy. "I can't."

In that moment Wyatt realized the only girl he really wanted was Cadence. His heart began to pound furiously. "I have to go." He started to laugh as he turned away and headed back to the elevator. Wyatt didn't know if she'd stayed at her dad's or come back but it didn't matter. He was going to find her. She might not even take him back and he wouldn't blame her if she didn't but he was not going to give up.

Leaving Lenore in the kitchen, Wyatt threw on a jacket and headed downstairs. Pushing through the front door he hesitated for a brief moment and then turning the corner toward his car found his way blocked by Jason and Kestral. "Hey! Merry Christmas! I thought you were staying in South Beach tonight?"

Jason's expression was unreadable as he stood, arm slung around Kestral's shoulder. "Kes had to work tonight and I didn't want her spending Christmas alone." He turned toward her and smiled. "Baby why don't you go on up; I'll follow you in a second."

Kestral murmured a Merry Christmas to Wyatt as she began to walk around him and headed toward the door. Realizing Lenore was still in the kitchen he stopped her, "You might want to rescue the kitchen from Lenore. She's up there trying to make cookies." Turning back to Jason he awkwardly explained, "She didn't have anywhere to go either."

The silence seemed to stretch forever until Jason finally spoke. "So where are you going?"

Drawing a deep breath, Wyatt answered. "I was going to try and find Cadence. I don't suppose you'd tell me where she is?" Jason stared at him, a long hard look, but said nothing.

"I know where she is." Kes glanced at Jason, then turned back to Wyatt and said quietly, directly, "She went home. I think she might be waiting for you."

Light from the scented candles she loved so much, radiated softly from the window as Wyatt waited in the walkway outside. She was coming down the stairs... Kestral had said she was waiting. He hadn't even thought through what he was going to say to Cade or if he would even let her in.

Before he could finish thinking it through, the door opened and she stood framed in that warm glow more luminescent than the candlelight. "Cadence..." There were no adequate words that could touch his emotions or express how he felt. It was different, powerful and overwhelming, a rush of heat accompanied by a sweet aching need. If this was love, it was unlike anything he ever felt before.

"Are you going to come in? It's cold." Cadence stepped aside and let him in.

Wyatt followed her into the living room and sat next to her on the rug. Pulling her close to him he pressed his face against her hair and spoke quietly, "I was confused Cade, afraid that it was too soon and that we were too young. I've done some stupid things but I know what I want now, how I feel."

She pulled away carefully choosing her words. "But I don't know how you feel anymore Wyatt. You said you loved me but then you wanted to hide, from my family, our friends. How can I believe what you say?"

Wyatt rose pulling her up with him. Twining his fingers through hers he drew her close. "I know Cadie, it's just words and they may seem hollow after how I acted. But I don't need words to show you how I feel about you and you don't need words to understand."

Lowering his mouth to hers he kissed her deeply. He reluctantly pulled away gently lifting her chin and looked into her sapphire eyes. A single tear trailed down her cheek but she smiled tenderly. "That's all I ever wanted. I love you Wyatt; take me to bed and show me, show me everything."

Wyatt undressed her slowly kissing her on her nose, her neck and shoulders, her mouth. Laying her down on the bed, he eased toward her, "My whole heart belongs to you, only you. I'm in love with you Cadie; this feels like home."

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NEXT CHAPTER: Passages 12

Chapter 10 ~ Fall to Pieces

2009-10-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

South Beach - Southwest Shore, Sunday 8:19PM

All the years I've tried
With more to go
Will the memories die
I'm waiting
Will I find you
Can I find you
We're falling down
I'm falling

Fall to Pieces - Velvet Revolver

Millwood - Stanfield Home, Sunday 9:49PM

"Wyatt, what are you doing here at this hour? Shouldn't you be at school?" His grandmother embraced him warmly while chastising him and ushered him into the house. Cassandra smelled like chocolate; the entire house smelled like warm cookies on an autumn evening. "I've got your grandfather's favorite cookies in the kitchen Wyatt; come with me."

"Well now, look who's here, Cass, and eating my cookies? Wyatt, you look more like your father every time I see you! Isn't he like our Cooper?" Eric looked at both of them and then eased into a chair, leaned in and asked, "What's on your mind boy?"

Smiling half-heartedly, Wyatt replied, "What makes you think something is on my mind Gramps?"

"Well my boy, unless you smelled your grandmother's cookies all the way from campus my guess is you need to talk. There's been a lot of...excitement in the family of late."

Wyatt kept his eyes lowered as he thoughtfully considered the cookie in front of him. "Yeah I guess there has been."

They sat in silence for several moments until Cassandra finally spoke. "I think I'll clean up in the kitchen and head off to bed; you boys enjoy your treats!" Kissing Eric tenderly on the head, she smiled at Wyatt and left the room.

Eric rose and strode toward the pool table. He wasn't as spry as he used to be but he still managed to put a little spring in his step. "Let's see if you've picked up the skills to beat your grandfather shall we?"

The sound of the balls colliding on the table was the only noise that disturbed the silence. Wyatt lined his shot up carefully, not glancing up at Eric as he finally spoke. "I went to my mother's house today."

"Oh Wyatt..." Eric stood thoughtful, and exhaled as he regarded his grandson.

Wyatt set down his pool cue and folded his arms. He was unsure if his grandfather was the right person to answer his questions but he had to ask, had to know. "Did my father really love my mother? I mean, they were both really young, they knew each other for what, a week before they got married? Do you think...if the things that happened to them hadn't, would they still be together?"

Eric walked outside with Wyatt trailing behind. He glanced up at the evening sky and smiled. When he finally spoke Eric's voice was quiet, almost melancholy. "Your father loved your mother very much Wyatt but you know what terrible things kept them apart. When they found each other for the last time, neither one of them was the same person."

Turning back toward Wyatt, he continued, "They were young, very young and your father was impulsive. I wouldn't be honest if I didn't say I wish he would have waited. Julia was a wonderful young woman but she was ill equipped to be the wife of a rock star, too dependent and too idealistic, and your father's star was rising fast. I don't think either of them really knew what to expect. Your father became a huge presence; I really don't think your mother could have managed in the shadow of that. But you know all of this, Wyatt; why ask it now?"

"I have feelings, strong feelings for someone. It happened so fast. I think I love her but I don't want to hurt her. I don't know if I am ready to make a commitment, the commitment she deserves." Kicking a loose pebble with his boot Wyatt went on, "I've done some stupid things and I may still; I don't want to lose her but I don't know if I can keep her without breaking her heart."

Eric studied Wyatt for a long moment. He was very much his father's son but tempered with his mother's romanticized view of the world. "This girl," he began, "have you discussed how you feel about things with her? If she feels as strongly toward you, she should have a say don't you think?"

"Yeah, Gramps, she should." Forcing his mouth into a weak smile Wyatt started back to the house. "I should probably get back to campus; it's a long drive. Tell Grams thanks for the cookies."

Eric watched from the window as Wyatt drove away. "Everything all right with the boy, dear?" Cassandra stood waiting in the doorway. He nodded once, smiled and then followed her into their bedroom.

University Quad - Monday 4PM

Wyatt saw Cadence sitting alone absently gripping her coffee and staring at the stack of books in front of her. "You trying to will the words into your head there Cade?" he laughed as he sat down next to her.

"I wish," she laughed brightly as she set her coffee down. Her entire face lit up as she looked at him and Wyatt could not help but grim back at her. "I went home to my mom's this weekend and didn't get much done on the school front," she went on. "But," Cadence took a deep breath, "I told her about us, Wyatt, well not everything but my mom isn't naive, and she is okay with it!" She was beaming.

Squeezing his cup a little tighter than before, Wyatt fought to keep his face from exposing his shock at her announcement. "Cade, I thought we were going to do this together; I haven't even told your brothers yet."

"Oh I know that but she promised not to tell them. She understands that part. But she just seemed so sad and I thought it would make her happy. My parents have always liked you."

"Not always," he muttered. Wyatt couldn't help grinning slightly at her enthusiasm but he remembered the strange look on Heydon's face when he caught Wyatt appreciating how Cade had grown at her sixteenth birthday. He should have been with her. They should have done this together.

"Anyway we said we would tell everyone when I got to college so..." Cadence finally noticed the look on Wyatt's face and he didn't seem at all thrilled. "Wyatt, what's the matter? Are you upset about this; I thought we agreed?" The late afternoon sun dipped behind clouds. Mist from the fountain drifted toward where they sat.

Abruptly Wyatt stood and walked toward the fountains with Cadence trailing behind him. "What is the problem Wyatt?" Her voice sounded confused, almost angry, as she stood behind him. Wyatt could feel her gaze boring through his back. What was the problem? He didn't know where to begin.

Wyatt turned to face her. "It looks bad, me not being there with you. You should have discussed this with me Cadence, we should have talked about it first instead of you blindsiding me with it." Cadence stepped back, surprised, and brushed a strand of hair away from her face.

"Blindsided...you're kidding right? Wyatt, we agreed! And I am not going to clear everything I say with you, I won't do that. If you want to keep hiding it, and I don't know why you would unless..." Cadence stopped as her expression changed from surprise to hurt. "Are you changing your mind? Do you want to break up? Is that it?"

"No Cadence, that's not it! Cadie...it's not that I don't love you. We're both still really young. It's just...we should have talked...maybe I needed more time!" That wasn't what he meant at all. He was going to make her cry. Wyatt paused, averted his eyes, and reached for something else to say that wasn't going to make this worse.

"You need more time? Fine, take it, take all the time you need. I love you, I really do, and I don't think I should have to pretend that I don't. But I am NOT going to sit around and mope and wring my hands over you Wyatt. You want to take it back? Go ahead. Tell everyone I made it up if you are so ashamed of me."

"And while you're at it, Wyatt, grow up and get over yourself!"

That surprised him; he had expected tears, not anger. Maybe he didn't know her after all. The skies opened up; rain began to fall in earnest on them as Cadence turned on her boot heel and walked away leaving Wyatt stunned.

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NEXT CHAPTER: Passages 4

Chapter 9 ~ Closer

2009-05-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

University Campus: Wyatt's Rental, dawn
Soft light began to filter through the wall of glass behind Wyatt as he lay warm and content with Cadence behind him. Her slow, rhythmic breathing lulled him back to sleep when the hum of the lift drew him back. Wyatt threw his eyes open and stared at the door as his heart pounded vigorously against his chest. He knew how he would react if he found someone in bed with his sister...it wouldn't be pretty.

Slipping out of bed he wrapped a towel around his waist and quietly walked out onto the deck and listened. Two male voices and then Kestral's soft laugh, a car door closing and the sound of the engine as it faded down the road. Relief washed over Wyatt; he would need to get Cadence up and out before they came back. And there was the matter of her car.
As he re-entered the bedroom Cadence was awake and sitting up looking at him curiously. Wyatt thought it would be hard to look at her in the morning but he found himself more drawn to her than ever. She was on the verge of becoming a woman. She had certainly proved that more than once during the course of the evening. He felt uncomfortable about what had transpired; they would need to talk about it and soon.
"This is awkward…and a little weird," Cadie slipped off the bed and hastily threw on the clothes that lay discarded next to the bed. She could feel Wyatt's eyes on her and felt flush as she recalled what she, what they, had done last night. Lifting her eyes as she reached for her other shoe which had slipped further under the bed than she thought, she saw the condom wrappers littered on the bed. At least they had the good sense to be careful, she thought. Damn, what had she done?
"What are you doing?" Wyatt watched as Cadence moved her fingers efficiently over the keypad of her cell.

"Damage control...I'm texting Kelsey. She's got to cover for me when my mother wants to know where I was." Cadence skimmed the response, satisfied, dropped the phone back in her bag and turned her attention to Wyatt once more.

"Cade, about last night..."

She looked directly at Wyatt, smiled as she shook her head and interrupted him, "You don't need to say anything Wyatt. I'm not sorry it happened and it isn't going to change anything between you and me." Cadence grew quiet once more as she tried to sort her muddled feelings. She had told him she loved him last night and he had responded in kind. Maybe it was the liquor but Cadence believed she could really be in love with him. Cadence turned and slipped on her shoes.
"It changes everything Cade." Wyatt approached her and slipped his arms around her protectively. "I don't know how this is going to work. No way will your mom or dad let me date you, at least not right now." She could feel his warm breath against her neck as he pulled her closer; his voice was quiet. "I won't ask you to wait Cadie, it wouldn't be fair. And your brothers..."
Cadence spun around, a look of defiance flashed in her eyes. "I'm almost 18 and I’ll be going to school here in the fall. In a few months it won't matter what they think. My brothers would want me to be with someone who won't hurt me. They could hardly complain if it was you." Wyatt shook his head and laughed softly. He seriously doubted whether or not Jason and Jett would be all right with him dating their sister. Folding her arms across her chest Cadence asked, "What's so funny?"

"Nothing really, you just reminded me of when you were a kid, that's all."
"I'm not a kid anymore." Her eyes were alight with mischief as she kissed him. Cadence slipped her arms around Wyatt's waist and sighed. "You better take me to my car before my brothers get back. I'm not ready to deal with them yet."

They found her car parked a few blocks away from the Garage Club. Cadence breathed a sigh of relief when she realized it was unlocked the keys having fallen under the brake pedal. It was a stroke of luck that no one had bothered to check. As Wyatt drove back to the house, Cadence sped off in the opposite direction along the coast highway smiling as she watched his taillights grow smaller until they disappeared. There was no traffic at this hour and she would make good time. If her luck held up her mother would be at the art studio and oblivious to the fact that she had not come home.

South Beach: Mitchell Residence

Cadence maneuvered the Beetle into the driveway and killed the engine. Drawing a deep breath she quietly made her way up the walkway and let herself in. The house was quiet; maybe she would be granted a reprieve from her mother's wrath. Cadie was certain that her mother knew she hadn't come home last night. Peri made a habit of checking in on her ever since the night her father left. She had barely made it to the stairs when her mother's soft voice stopped her dead in her tracks.

"Where have you been Cadence?" Peri held a mug of steaming coffee as her green eyes pinned her daughter where she stood.

"Just leave me alone Mom." Cadence was in no mood to fight with her mother. She wanted to curl up in her bed after a hot bath, and some eggs. She wanted to imagine Wyatt lying beside her, holding her close and keeping her safe.

"I asked you where you were! You will give me an answer right now!"

"I spent the night at Kelsey's; you can call her if you want."

Peri set down her cup and stiffly walked toward Cadence. She looked more tired than usual and Cade felt some remorse knowing that her mother probably stayed up most of the night angry and worried. "I don't remember you asking my permission to do that let alone go out in the middle of the night. I know Kelsey's parents are abroad and she would cover for you in a heartbeat so I am going to ask you again young lady, where have you been all night?"

Cadence glared at her mother, her eyes narrowed, "That's what you do isn't it mother? I bet you accused Daddy of lying to you all the time too didn't you? You probably think I'm just like him! You know what? Maybe I am! Maybe I went to a bar and got stupid drunk and slept with some strange boy!"

"Cadence, stop it! I was worried sick when you weren't in bed! You are not to leave this house without my permission or I will take that car away from you!"

"You're being melodramatic."

"Am I? Give me the keys."

Cadence sucked in a breath, "You're not serious! Are you?"

Peri stood there hand outstretched and waited never taking her eyes off her daughter. "Serious as a heart attack. Consider your wings clipped."

Cadence dropped the keys in her mother's hand and wheeled around running up the stairs as tears began to sting her eyes. Peri sighed, frustrated and struggling with exhaustion. Reaching for the phone she considered her options and with a resigned expression began to dial Heydon's number.

Coast Road

Halfway home, Wyatt abruptly pulled off to the side of the road and slammed on the brakes. He sat there absently drumming his fingers against the steering wheel, sand billowing around the car, as his mind raced. Being with Cadence had felt right last night and he cared for her more deeply than he realized but Wyatt had no idea how to handle the situation from this point on. His feelings blindsided him and in the light of day he was more conflicted than he realized.

He needed someone to talk to, someone who might understand and help him think it through. He needed to talk to his father. Glancing over his shoulder quickly Wyatt maneuvered the car back on the beach road and headed back to South Beach.

South Beach: Stanfield Residence
Easing the car in front of the massive house, Wyatt stepped out of the car and gingerly took the steps and rang the bell. Wyatt shifted his weight as he patiently waited for someone to answer the door. It hadn't occurred to him that no one would be home; he should have called first. As he turned to leave he saw his sister open the door to the foyer, smiling warmly as she let him in.
Wyatt embraced her warmly. "Hey Rainie I'm surprised to see you at home! Is Dad here?"

"He's at the studio. Mom had some things she needed to take care of so I'm watching the twins. Why didn't you just let yourself in?"
Wyatt followed Rayne to the pool and watched as she eased onto a beach towel setting the monitor next to her so she could hear the twins in the house. Looking up at him she repeated, "So why did you ring?"
"No key remember?" He plopped down next to her and tossed a pebble across the pool absently.

"That's stupid Wy, this is your house too. I know where the spare keys are if you want them. Dad changed the security code after Ryan left but I can give it to you."
"That probably wouldn't be a good idea Rainie but thanks." A mild breeze puffed through the palm fronds and danced across the water. Wyatt watched the ripples undulate back and forth slapping against the pool's edge. They sat in silence until Wyatt pulled off his shirt and kicked off his shoes relishing the heat of the sun on his skin.

"Sera Godfrey says you have a Kramer tattooed on your right hip, says she's seen it up close and personal." Rayne rolled over and propped herself up as she followed Wyatt's gaze toward the water's edge.
Wyatt laughed. "As if I would ever let the teen queen get that close to me," he threw a look toward Rayne and added, "and I don't have a tattoo at all in case you were wondering."
"Right...where'd you get it?" Rayne threw a sideways glance at her brother as she pulled her legs up and hugged her knees. "Anyway if people are meant to be together age shouldn't matter."
Cocking his head Wyatt studied her; the statement taking him by surprise. Rayne held his gaze, her expression giving nothing away. He tried to choose his words carefully; his feelings were a double edged sword and Wyatt had felt both sides of that blade. "I think," he began, "that it depends."

"It depends on what? What if you were in love with someone that other people thought you shouldn't be in love with? What would you do?" She watched him, expectant, golden brown eyes intensely burning into him.
Rayne's question troubled him deeply; it cut too close and it was what he came here to find out in the first place. Wyatt shifted his gaze away from her and fixed them on the rippling pool once more. "The truth is I don't know what I would do Rainie; I don't have any answers. I wish...I wish I did." He hung his head before lifting his eyes back toward her.
"Whatever. Why do you want to see Dad?"

Wyatt gave her a plaintive smile, "It's nothing. Look I'm going to take off; I shouldn't have come in the first place. Tell Dad and Beth I stopped by all right?"
They both rose and turned toward the house as Cooper strode toward them. "Wyatt this is a surprise. Is everything all right?"
Wyatt kicked the toe of his shoe into the concrete and avoided looking at his father. "Everything's fine. I just..." Exhaling heavily he leveled his gaze on Coop. "I need to talk to you; I need some advice...about a girl."

"Let's talk inside." Wyatt followed Cooper and watched as his father deftly tossed him a pool cue and then began systematically running the table on him. Cooper exhaled sharply while lining up his next shot. His son needed advice about a girl...several scenarios raced through his imagination and none were good. "What's on your mind?"
Wyatt didn't know where to begin and he definitely was not sure how his father would react. "I met this girl last night. She was in a bunch of my classes and we hit it off pretty well. I like her a lot and she definitely liked me; she's different and fun. I haven't been with a girl like that in a long time and I was going to take her back to my place when something happened."
Pausing, he watched Cooper's last shot miss the pocket by millimeters. Wyatt's heart was racing; he knew Coop wasn't going to like what he had to say. He might as well just get it over with. It wasn't as if he hadn't disappointed his father before; Wyatt doubted this would be any different.
Bending over, Wyatt lined up his shot and continued. "Cadence Mitchell was at the same club. Some guy was coming onto her hard and I intervened. She was drunk and scared so I took her back to my place." Wyatt followed the ball as his shot went wide of the pocket and settled against the edge of the table. His voice was barely audible. "I slept with her Dad."
Cooper paused pulling in a sharp breath and gripping the stick hard until his knuckles turned white. His first instinct was to shout at Wyatt about restraint and responsibility however it would not only be counter-productive but hypocritical as well. Cadence Mitchell was barely out of high school and not yet 18. She was underage and the daughter of one of his oldest friends and band mate. This was going to go south fast and Cooper didn't want either of the kids caught in the maelstrom.
Cooper set down his stick and poured himself a drink with Wyatt following suit. "Are you going to stand there and say nothing or are you going to tell me what to do about this? You know what, never mind; I should have known better than to come to you for help."
Cooper set his glass down hard and turned to face Wyatt. "My gut reaction is to smack you in the head and ask what the hell you were thinking. Cadence Mitchell is for all intents and purposes still a child! She's a dreamer who just had her fantasy world shattered by her parents; what do you think this is going to do to her? And I'm not even going to broach the topic of her family's reaction!"
"Cadie has always been there for me. She doesn't judge me; she understands who I am and what I've been through better than anyone else. She has kept me sane through a whole lot of bullshit. Cade is a lot more mature than you give her credit. I've always cared about her; I really do think I love her Dad. But I also really wanted to get to know Lenore. I can't do that to Cadie. So I need to know, what would you do?"
Cooper's face softened into a slight smile as he considered his answer."I would have gone for it which is exactly why I am telling you to step back. Cadence is young, you're young, and you both have a lot of life in front of you. I don't want either of you to resent a commitment made at such a young age. I'm thinking about both of you here. As much as I believe Cade would be a good choice, the timing is wrong for both of you. Think about that Wyatt."
Wyatt nodded and turned to leave. "I will."

"You know what you have to do Wyatt."

"Thanks Dad. I guess I need to talk to Cade and her family. I have no idea how Jason and Jett are going to take this."

Coop watched his son push through the door. "However this goes, I'll stand by you, Wyatt."

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NEXT CHAPTER: Sessions Chapter 6

Chapter 8 ~ Sacrifice

2009-04-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

The Garage Club

Leaving his car at home, seeing as his objective was to get stinking drunk, Wyatt wandered aimlessly all over campus. The evening was warm, the sky was clear and littered with stars. It was calm and quiet. What he wanted was noise, bright lights, a strong drink, and some action. The best place to find all four was the Garage Club.

Wyatt pushed through the doors and strode toward the bar. It wasn't crowded but then most of the students had taken off for the summer. Jason and Kestral huddled in the corner moving together to the steady sounds coming from the DJ booth.

Slipping onto a bar stool Wyatt watched them dance, laughing and touching each other in an intimate way, and felt the familiar twinge of loneliness. They had an understanding, a respect that Wyatt craved. He thought he had it with Bailey. That relationship, he realized after the pain subsided, had been a monumental mistake but it didn't stop him from wanting that comfort.

Swinging his legs around he came face to face with a blonde girl he vaguely recognized from one of his music classes. She stood watching him with an amused expression, her crooked smile barely parting her lips. "Just when I thought things might get interesting and it looks like you're leaving." Her voice was raspy, rough, and oddly reminiscent of his father's.

Wyatt smiled back convinced the evening had just taken an intriguing turn. "I might be persuaded to stick around. It's Lenore, right?"

"You get a gold star; I didn't think you'd know." She took a drink and, staring straight ahead, commented, "Too bad about Professor Walker isn't it? Her leaving so suddenly...you know there were rumors that she was screwing a student? Anyway I thought she was cool being so young and a woman teaching here. Who cares if she was getting off on some young stud?"

A strange expression covered his face as Wyatt looked at her. "Any idea who the guy was she was supposedly screwing?"

Lenore hopped off the bar stool, laughing. "Who cares? I don't want to talk about that; what I really want is to know if you guys are still looking for a drummer."

Wyatt stood, eyes slightly narrowed, and gazed down at her. "Why? Are you looking to audition?"

"Would I really need to try out? I'm clearly perfect for the job and would fit right in don't you think?"

Wyatt laughed and studied her more closely. Lenore was sassy, spunky, and, if memory served, a talented performer. She was right, she would fit in and Jett would probably be all over her the first chance he got. Hell, Wyatt was already considering that scenario. "It's not just up to me Lenore. Jason and Jett have to agree."

Lenore's mouth curved in a slight smile. "Well I'm pretty sure I already have Jett's vote."

Slightly disappointed, Wyatt considered it. "That could make things a little awkward."

Lenore reached for him and took his arm leading him to the dance floor. She began to move in time with the music, her hips swaying and her eyes never leaving Wyatt's face. Smiling at him she drew closer, "It doesn't need to be awkward. Do you have some hard and fast rule about sleeping with your band mates?"

"It never came up." Wyatt put his hands on her waist and pulled Lenore toward him. He lowered his mouth toward hers and brushing his lips against hers softly, sensually. "Besides you aren't in the band...yet."

As Wyatt moved in to kiss her again he heard a young girl's voice, familiar and frightened, from the corner of the room. Glancing over he groaned, "Damn it! I need to deal with this."

Lenore was clearly disappointed with the interruption. "Do you make a habit of rescuing wayward girls?"

"I do in this case; she's a family friend and she doesn't belong here." He exhaled frustration etched on his face. "Are you around the rest of the summer?"

Lenore smiled enigmatically, "You'll see me again Wyatt; you can count on it." Turning, she walked away from him dancing toward the bar as she waved to the bartender for another drink.

As Wyatt approached Cadence he noticed the flush of her face as she struggled against the advances of a guy who had too much to drink to notice how young she was. "Stop it; don't do that!" Cadence pleaded with the young man to leave her alone.

Tapping him on the shoulder, Wyatt tried to reason with him. "Hey man, come on now, don't you think she's a little young? Unless you're looking for a rape charge you might want to back off."

"She came onto me; I was just giving her what she wanted."Pulling away from her, the guy blinked a few times and took a closer look. "Forget it man, I don't need this shit." He staggered off to the pool table muttering something about girls being teases and how he knew all along she was young.

Wyatt stood there arms folded and glared at her. "What the hell are you doing here Cadence?" he hissed. "Are you insane?" The way Cadence was dressed it wasn't surprising that she had been hit on. If Wyatt didn't know better, he would have hit on her as well.

Cadence was mortified. "Please take me out of here Wyatt."

Wyatt looked around, relieved that Jason and Kestral seemed to have left. "Damn it Cade, you're shitfaced! Did you drive like that?" He ran his hands through his hair wondering how he was going to get her home and himself back to his house. "Come on, I'm taking you home. Give me your keys."

"I'm not going home! Not like this...please Wyatt, take me to your house?" Cadence pleaded as she fumbled through her purse looking for the car keys. "I can't find my keys! Maybe I lost them...maybe he has them!" She pointed in the vicinity of her male companion as she swayed on her heels.

Wyatt exhaled forcefully trying to figure out what he was going to do with her. "If I take you to my place, you know Jason is there with Kes. You are going to be so busted Cadence."

Finding the idea amusing Cadence giggled uncontrollably, "I can sneak in! I snuck out, I can sneak in! I'm very, very good at being sneaky. Shh, we'll be quiet and sneaky!"

Glancing once more at the bar he watched sullenly as Lenore sat talking to a group of people. He would much rather be taking her to his place. Lenore looked in his direction, smiled at him and returned to her conversation. "Let's go Cade and I'm warning you, if Jason hears you..."

She slipped her hand inside his allowing him to lead her out of the club.

University Campus: Wyatt's Rental

Except for the outside lights, the house was dark when Wyatt and Cadence finally arrived. The long walk from the club had given Cadence time to sober up. As they headed to the elevator Wyatt was grateful his room was on the floor below Jason and Jett's.

Cadence quietly walked into Wyatt's bedroom and gazed out into the night. He quietly approached her and brushed a few stray tendrils of her silky black hair from her shoulder. "Do you want to talk about what's really bothering you Cade?"

She turned to look at him fighting with tears and nausea. "Is this how you felt Wyatt? When your parents broke up did you feel like everything you believed in was a lie? I hate my mother for chasing my father off and I hate him for leaving! Love isn't supposed to die; not real love. Maybe they never loved each other at all!"

Wyatt drew a quick breath unsure of how to respond when he had struggled with the same concepts for so long. Gazing down at her, her innocence gone, her eyes questioning, pleading for clarity, Wyatt didn't know what to say. "Cadence...I don't think it was like that for your mom and dad...love doesn't always die."

They both grew silent and as if drawn to each other by some unseen force, their lips met in a kiss, soft and gentle, that quickly became deeply intense.
Rocked by the sensation and fueled by the liquor, Wyatt pulled away carefully and smiled apologetically. "Sorry...I shouldn't have done that..."

Cadence slipped her arms around him. "It wasn't the first time you kissed me like that; this time though...it felt...good." She sighed leaning into him for support.

"Come on, let's put you to bed."

Cadence slipped out of her clothes and under the cool sheets. "Stay with me for awhile okay?" she sighed. Wyatt lay down beside her and caressed her back as she closed her eyes and drifted off. His mouth curved in a slight smile as watched her sleep and remembered how she had been there for him during his dark times.

"What?" Cadence brushed the hair from his eyes as she smiled up at him.
"I thought you were asleep." As her lips parted, Wyatt slowly moved closer and pressed his mouth against hers as Cadence wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders drawing him closer. She lowered her hands and grabbed the bottom of his shirt dragging it slowly up his back and over his head.

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NEXT CHAPTER: Rising Above Chapter 9

Chapter 7 ~ Tristamente

2009-01-25T13:37:00.000-08:00

AN: Song in the playlist is Breath by Breaking Benjamin.

University ~ Saturday, early evening

The end of the semester could not come fast enough for Wyatt. He kept his head down avoiding eye contact with Bailey during class as much as possible. It hurt too much to look at her, a situation he would not allow himself to be put in next semester. In turn, Lucy avoided Wyatt and refused to allow him to explain what happened in Oceanside, what would he say anyway, but he owed her an apology.

Managing to pull out excellent grades despite the setbacks, Wyatt sat at the keyboard deep in thought. Jason's voice drew him out of his reverie. "We're heading out. Are you sure you don't want to come with us? My mom said it's cool."

Although Wyatt managed to explain that he hadn't taken Cadence to Oceanside, he refused to reveal what happened and the Mitchell boys finally dropped it, satisfied that at least it wasn't their sister. "No, it's chill; I'm just going to stay here," Wyatt answered. He would rather stay on campus impose upon Peri. Besides, he wasn't sure how long Jason and Jett would stay home now that they had a taste of independence.

Curious, Wyatt asked, "Where's Jett? Isn't he going with you?"

Jason snorted softly, "Lorrah called so he went over there. I'm going to pick him up on the way to Kestral's house. She made tiramisu to bring over to Mom's." Jason glanced affectionately down at Kestral who blushed slightly at the attention.

Starting toward the elevator Jason paused, turning once more toward Wyatt, "Look if you change your mind, the invite is still there. My mom would love to have you; she thinks you need some home cooking."

"Thanks, man, I'll think about it," Wyatt smiled and turned his attention to the keyboard once more.

Wyatt enjoyed the solitude as he stood on the roof and watched the stars. Somewhere beyond his view Bailey's house was nestled. He wondered if she was home, if she thought about him as much as he thought of her. Despite everything he missed her, still wanted her. His heart ached as the memory of her with another man flashed in front of him.

Shaking it off Wyatt exhaled and headed back toward the kitchen. A quick bite, a shower and maybe he would feel like hitting the clubs. Checking the fridge for something to eat, Wyatt began to regret not taking Peri's offer to come stay with them. Grabbing some eggs and cheese, he fixed an omelet and quickly devoured it.

After rinsing off the plate, Wyatt snapped off the stereo and turned toward the elevator when he heard the doorbell. Wondering who was still on campus he pressed the button and went down.

Wyatt's heart pounded in his chest when he saw her standing at the door waiting. His confusion at seeing her was quickly overshadowed by joy and the desire to take her in his arms. Tentatively he walked toward the door and let her in.

Bailey smiled wistfully at him, "I wasn't sure if you had gone home for the break. I hope it's all right that I stopped by."

Arms folded, Wyatt watched as she looked around the room. "Why are you here Bailey?"

She turned then and looked at him, contrite, "Wyatt, I never meant to hurt you. I can't explain my behavior; I've been so confused, I became involved with a student! It was wrong but I couldn't help myself. Ever since that first day I saw you, I wanted you and it frightened me. I wanted to push you away but I couldn't. I tried; believe me I tried to forget you and move on but I just can't."

"I hated seeing you with that guy. Did you sleep with him?"

She pulled him close and stroked his hair, soothing him with her touch, "I know baby, I know. Wyatt, none of it matters now! Only you and I matter, how we feel, what we have. Kiss me Wyatt; make love to me. I need you desperately."

His mouth brushed against hers softly, "Bailey, I love you so much."

"I know you do. Take me, right here, right now."

University ~ Sunday morning

Cooper was still in a foul mood as he watched the buildings slide past in a blur one after the other. He disliked the fanfare of a limo but it was more expeditious than a taxi or rental car. It was too early for him; he had not slept much and his body was still feeling the effects from last night's performance. The decision that he would fly home for the weekend had been made ever since his visit at Chameleon. Things were spiraling out of control and Cooper intended to set things right. A quick stop at Wyatt's and then home was the plan.

Only seeing Wyatt's Beetle in the car port as his long strides moved him toward the door, he surmised that the Mitchell boys had gone to South Beach. That was good; at least he would have some private time to talk with Wyatt, get him to understand the repercussions of his actions. Cooper knew all too well about that topic.

Cooper tried the bell a time or two and then knocked impatiently. Shifting his weight he considered leaving, irritated that he might not be able to talk with Wyatt after all. On impulse he tried the door and found it was unlocked. Swearing under his breath at the lack of security, Wyatt should know better, Cooper let himself in.

"Wyatt," his gravelly voice called out. The place was fairly quiet; Wyatt might still be in bed or upstairs playing his guitar, a habit Cooper remembered well from his college days. Smiling he took the lift up to the next floor.

Cooper heard soft music playing as he stepped off the lift, not the kind he expected Wyatt to be listening to, and called out once more, "Wyatt, are you up?" As he started for the bedroom door, Wyatt threw it open and walked out to meet him.

"Dad, what are you doing here? How did you get in?" Wyatt dragged his hand through his disheveled hair and leveled his gaze on his father.

"The door was unlocked - Wyatt you should be the last person I need to lecture regarding security..."

Wyatt cut him off hard. "What are you doing here," he repeated.

Glancing at the bedroom door Wyatt motioned for his father to follow him into the music room. He stood there arms folded, a mirror image of his father, and waited for an explanation.

"I had a few days between venues. I wanted to stop by and see you on my way home. Wyatt you need to understand why I made you turn over the keys."

"Save it, Dad; I get it. I screwed up yet again as far as you are concerned; you made your point, I don't have any more keys to give you so you wasted a trip over. Go home to your family."

Wyatt's bitter words cut deeply, "Wyatt you are my family, so are Beth and Rainie. I am only doing what is best for everyone. I know you don't like Ryan and I am sorry you felt like I took his side but you weren't thinking!"

"Wyatt?" her soft, sleepy voice floated into the room turning both men's heads at once. Wyatt's face went white as his father's transformed from surprise to recognition.

"I know you!"

"I never forget a face," Cooper's voice rumbled with a combination of surprise and anger. "Get dressed - now!"

Wyatt began to protest, "Dad, let me explain..."

"Have you completely lost your mind?" Cooper spun around, incensed and seething, "Your goddamned professor? Is she the one you had over in Oceanside?"

"I love her!" Wyatt shouted back, angry.

Cooper was enraged, "You love her? Wyatt you are 18 fucking years old! Nothing about this relationship equates to love!"

"Don't try to tell me how or what to feel!" Bailey had returned to the room after hastily dressing and attempting to straighten her hair. Wyatt immediately walked over and tried to comfort her. "Bailey, just go home. I'll take care of this."

"She isn't going anywhere!" Cooper growled as he strode purposefully toward her, "You should know better than to get involved with a student, any student! By the time I am through you will be lucky if you can get a job in a music store selling CDs!" he hissed.

"Please you don't understand..." Desperate, Bailey wept softly. "This job is my life! Please, I'll do anything...anything you ask! I'll end it, never see him again; please my job means everything to me!"

Hurt, Wyatt stepped back and watched her. "Bailey, what are you saying?"

Cooper stood back and studied them. There was any number of ways this thing could go sideways and come back to hurt Wyatt, who was obviously so smitten with the woman he couldn't see straight. She was smart; she could go public with the affair completely shattering Wyatt's life and future. If he wanted to expose her, Cooper needed to handle this carefully while protecting his son.

Stepping up to her, Cooper softened his voice using seduction as a tool, "We both know what this is really about...what you really want from him. When you make love to him, does he know you're imagining me in his place? Isn't that what you wanted all along?" Cooper caressed her cheek, "Tell him."

"Stop it, Dad..."

"Go on Bailey, tell him what you really want; then you can try and persuade me to let you keep your job."

Bailey swallowed hard as her heart pounded against her chest. Memories of flirting with Cooper when he had presented the university with a check for the music department came flooding back to her. Had she seduced Wyatt for that reason? Either way, she wanted to keep her job. "All right," she whispered, "I'll tell him."

Turning toward Wyatt, tears trailing down her face, Bailey ended it. "I'm sorry Wyatt. I'm going to choose my career. Maybe one day you'll find a way to forgive me."

Wyatt's heart sank, incredulous, as he stared back at her. She turned away and looked once more at Cooper, "What's it going to take for me to hang on to my job."

Wyatt watched from the window as Bailey walked away from his house and out of his life, feeling numb from the anger and betrayal. His father had lain out in no uncertain terms what she had to do. When it was over, she had agreed not to reveal the affair or ever contact Wyatt again. In exchange she would resign her position at the university and seek employment elsewhere, a concession that Cooper made to protect his son from scandal.

After she disappeared from his view Wyatt turned back to Cooper his voice dull and defeated, "You must be real pleased with yourself Dad. One more thing you've taken from me."

"Wyatt she was using you; didn't she make it clear what her priorities are? I did what I had to in order to protect you."

"Protection is not what I need from you; it was never what I needed from you! You know what? Forget it. Go home Dad; just leave me alone." Beaten, Wyatt brushed past Cooper and slowly walked toward the lift. Cooper followed him and tried to explain his position but Wyatt would have none of it.

They stood looking at each other, the air rife with tension and words unspoken. Finally breaking the silence Cooper reached out to his son, hesitated and then drew back his outstretched arms. "I would go through hell for you, Wyatt. I love you, son; please remember that."

Wyatt simply stood there, emotionally drained, and responded with complete silence.

As Cooper walked out of the front door, he heard the forceful click of the deadbolt as it slid firmly into place.

---------------------------

NEXT CHAPTER: Stage Chapter 30

Chapter 6 ~ Dynamic Contrast

2009-01-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

University Row ~ Wyatt's House, Sunday Evening

True to her word, Bailey refused to see Wyatt again outside of class. It had been difficult for him, seeing her every day was a constant reminder to him of what they had shared, an ache he could not ease. Wyatt lost his focus and his performance in school began to suffer.

Although she didn't know the reason behind it, Lucy took it upon herself to study with Wyatt on a regular basis. She felt confident she would be able to help him prepare for finals which would significantly affect his final grades for the semester. They had dated casually but nothing serious had developed between them. He had barely even seriously kissed her.

Sitting cross-legged on his bed, Lucy went over the manuscripts they had been working on while Wyatt paced back and forth. "Wyatt, can you look at this one passage? I can't tell if this should be major or minor." Looking over her shoulder quickly he studied the notes and answered, "Major, and this chord right here should be a fifth."

Making the necessary changes, Lucy smiled up at him, "That does it then! It's finished. Do you want to take a look at it?" Wyatt pushed the glass door open and stepped out into the cool evening, "No, I'm sure its fine."

Lucy watched Wyatt from the doorway. She liked him. It surprised her that he never made a move on her. She knew that he liked her. Maybe he was overly cautious because of who he was. Either way, she really wanted to take their relationship further. He was smart, funny, incredibly talented and drop dead sexy.

"Wyatt," Lucy gently moved her hand along his arm and pulled him down toward her. Wyatt kissed her more passionately than he ever had before. Things really started to heat up between them when Jett opened the door and interrupted.

"There's someone downstairs to see you Wy and I don't think you're going to like who it is." Wyatt glanced over at Jett trying to assess what was going on. Giving Lucy a quick squeeze he said, "Wait here Luce; I won't be long."

They rode down to the first floor in silence. Wyatt played through various scenarios as he considered asking Jett who was waiting for him and then changed his mind. If it was Bailey, he didn't want to give anything away. But given the look on Jett's face, Wyatt doubted it was anyone else.

As he stepped off the elevator, Wyatt barely contained his surprise. "What are you doing here?" he demanded angry and immediately defensive. This was the last person he expected to see in his living room.

Ryan stood there, an immovable wall, staring him down. "We need to talk," his voice boomed in the silent room. Looking at the Mitchell boys Ryan added, "You two want to give us some privacy?"

Raising his hand to stop them from leaving Wyatt responded, "Whatever you have to say to me can be said in front of them." Folding his arms across his broad chest, Ryan paused, continued to hold Wyatt's gaze, and then shrugged slightly, "Suit yourself."

Jason and Jett both positioned themselves on either side of Wyatt, a symbolic gesture of solidarity. "What do you want Ryan?" Wyatt was tempted to hurl accusations of infidelity at him but thought better of it. He'd wait, find out why Ryan was here and use it if he needed to.

Ryan got straight to the point, "You were at the beach house in Oceanside last weekend. You brought a girl. You compromised the security there, your father's, Beth's. You screwed up. Again. I'm here for the keys." Ryan shifted positions and waited.

Wyatt's temper flared."Go to hell Ryan. It's my house too. I can go there whenever I want to. Besides, my dad asked me to check up on Beth. Maybe it's a good thing I did."

Taking a deep breath, Ryan demanded once more, "Give me the keys Wyatt. As long as I'm taking care of Beth and your father is away, it isn't your house to come and go as you please. You're irresponsible and reckless. You brought a girl into the house and left your father and Beth at risk because of it. This isn't negotiable and I am not leaving without the keys."

Wyatt took a step forward and spoke in a menacing voice, "My father left Beth at risk by leaving her in your hands. As for me bringing a girl there…you don't know what you're talking about. I'm not giving you the keys!" Wyatt placed his hands on his hips and glared back at Ryan, eyes narrowed and jaw working furiously.

Not moving, Ryan responded, "Let me spell out what I know in terms you can understand; you brought a girl to the house, had sex in the tub, the sauna, and the guest room. You left a condom in the waste basket, wet clothes and towels in the bathroom, and I know you slept in the guest room because you did a shitty job of making the bed. You want me to go on? Now give me the keys!"

Jason and Jett exchanged worried glances but remained steadfast next to Wyatt, who was taken aback. He mentally went through the events of last weekend. He was sure he had cleaned everything up. It didn't matter; it was his father's house, not Ryan's. No way was he backing down or giving in.

"Even if I did, you have no right to come here demanding the keys. It's not your house. My father would never stand for you treating me like this. He knew I was there checking up on Beth; I called him in Paris."

The kid was going to push this to the limit but Ryan had no choice and wasn't backing down either. He had discussed it at length with Beth finally convincing her that there was no other way. Wyatt made a grievous error. He knew it, she knew it and Cooper would reluctantly agree to it.

In an even, deliberate voice Ryan said, "I am not leaving here without those keys Wyatt. If it takes a phone call to Cooper, so be it. But your father will agree with me here. He won't like what you did. Your choice."

Wyatt stepped toward Ryan once more, "My father won't like a lot of things that went on in that house. You want to make the call, make the call."

Ryan drew a deep breath and exhaled. Wyatt's innuendo was not lost on him but it was baseless conjecture. He didn't want to have to bring Cooper into this but was fully prepared to call him if necessary. Ryan knew Cooper would see the potential damage Wyatt's behavior would have caused. He didn't have to like it, but Cooper would back Ryan up on this, that much he knew. Wyatt was reckless and headstrong. Pulling out his cell phone, Ryan punched in the numbers to Cooper's cell.

Ryan's eyes never left Wyatt as he waited for the call to go through. This wasn't going to be easy on either of the Stanfield men. "Cooper? It's Ryan. No everything is fine with Beth. I'm here at Wyatt's. There is something you need to know."

Ryan paced around the room as he recounted the evening he returned from Paris with Beth. Wyatt watched him, angry and dumbfounded. He couldn't believe Ryan actually called his father.

Jason's voice snapped him back to reality, "Wyatt what the hell is he talking about? You had a girl over at the beach house? Last weekend? What girl?"

Before Wyatt had a chance to answer, Ryan shoved the phone toward him, "Your father wants to talk to you."

Wyatt swallowed hard. His father would be furious to have been bothered by something this ridiculous while he was thousands of miles away. Wyatt took the phone from Ryan and spoke, "Hey, Dad."

Turning away from the group, he walked toward the window, "No, it wasn't like that…Dad, wait a minute…let me explain…"

Snippets of his conversation drifted toward Jason and Jett who stood uncomfortably and waited. They took turns glancing between Wyatt and Ryan, who watched them both with detachment. He would have expected no less of them than to stand by Wyatt.

As Wyatt continued to talk to his father, the elevator door opened and Lucy stepped out. Seeing Wyatt on the phone, she headed toward the boys and asked, "What's going on? I got worried." Seeing Ryan, she asked them cautiously, "Is Wyatt in some kind of trouble?"

"Go back upstairs Lucy. He's a bodyguard hired to watch out for Wy's stepmom. There's no trouble, just a misunderstanding," Jason tried to usher her out of the room before Ryan had a chance to cross examine her.

"Lucy is it? Are you the girl that Wyatt took out to the beach house last weekend?" Ryan demanded as he stepped toward her.

"What are you talking about? I've never been to any beach house with Wyatt," Lucy reacted defensively. "It's all right; you can tell me if it was you that spent the night. Nothing is going to happen to you," he insisted.

Lucy looked at Ryan, incredulous. "It wasn't me," she whispered, her voice wavering.

The uncomfortable silence was broken by the snapping shut of Ryan's cell. All eyes turned toward Wyatt whose fact was taut, eyes flashing anger, pain and disappointment. Silently he handed the cell phone to Ryan along with the key to the beach house.

"I'll need the key to the house in South Beach as well," Ryan quietly added.

"What? You've got to be kidding me!" Wyatt shouted, "Fine, take it. Anything else? Or have you finally managed to take everything you want."

Ryan watched Wyatt carefully before making one last demand, "I need the name of the girl Wyatt." Wyatt folded his arms and leveled an angry stare at him, "Fuck you, Ryan. I'm not giving you anything else. I don't care who you call, you aren't getting that."

Ryan was tired of this, damned spoiled rock star kid, it was always the same, "If there is a chance that what happened there can get out, cause a problem…"

"Just drop it Ryan," Wyatt's voice was quiet, his body slumped in utter defeat. "She won't be a problem for anyone. You're just going to have to trust me on that, like it or not, but you're getting nothing more from me. Now get the hell out of my house."

"I'm sorry it had to go down like this Wyatt," Ryan's conciliatory tone infuriating Wyatt. "Just get out, damn it!"

Wyatt waited until he heard the door shut and Ryan's SUV drive off. "Son of a bitch!" he shouted. He shut eyes hard and tried to make sense of what had just happened. His father had actually taken a stand against him. He felt betrayed and humiliated.

Shaken, he turned toward Lucy whose wary expression took him by surprise. "Lucy, I can explain this," he started. "Don't," she interrupted, "I guess was wrong about you after all. You aren't the guy I thought you were Wyatt. I don't think I want to see you right now."

"Lucy, wait! Can't you give me a chance to explain this?" he called after her as she hurried out the door.

Running his hand through his hair, Wyatt looked to his roommates who looked back at him with concern and anger. "What the hell Wyatt? What did you do?" Jason demanded. Jett stepped toward him, hands on hips and challenged, "Who did you do is more like it."

Wyatt raged, "Do you have any idea what just happened here? My father went against his own son and took sides with some dude who is probably screwing his wife and you're asking me what I did?"

Jason pressed him, "You took Cadence to the dance last weekend Wyatt. Did you take down my sister? Is that why you won't talk?"

His anger erupted, "No! That's disgusting! She's a kid…how can you even think I would do that to Cade? You know what? Screw you both! I don't need this crap! I'm out of here!"

Wyatt took off down the street. The crisp air was biting against his skin but he could barely feel it. He was numb and he was furious. What the hell had just happened? His best friends insinuating something outrageous, Lucy not giving him a chance to explain… he didn't deserve this, he didn't do anything wrong.

Hadn't his father asked him to watch out for Beth? So what if he brought a girl there! And what about Ryan…if his father only knew exactly how Ryan had been taking care of her…

His father…how could he take a stand against him? Wyatt's anguished voice screamed out, "Damn it Dad! Why would you do that?" Crushed, he buried his head in his hands. He had to talk to someone…Bailey. He needed to talk to her.

Cutting across campus, Wyatt headed toward her house on foot. It was late and no one would see him if he took the path through the park and went in the back way. Nearly there Wyatt hastened his steps anxious to see her, hold her, and make love to her. He ached, his need was so great.

Wyatt stood at the door and collected himself. Heaving a sigh of relief, he knocked loudly. It took several moments for her to answer the door. She looked incredible. "Wyatt, what are you doing here?" She didn't, however, look happy to see him.

"Something happened…I needed someone to talk to and I thought about you. Can I come in?" he pleaded. "Wyatt this isn't a good time. Perhaps you could see me after class on Monday?" Agitated, Wyatt raised his voice, "This can't wait until Monday! Please, I need you…"

Bailey cut him off with a stern look of warning and repeated, "I said this wasn't a good time!" Wyatt's eyes were immediately drawn to the heavy footfalls of a man who was descending from the bedroom. "Bailey, what's all the commotion?" The man gently placed a kiss on the side of her head.

Wyatt stared at her in disbelief. "James, this is one of my students, Wyatt Stanfield. I've been working with him on a special project for the music department. His father is Cooper Stanfield. Wyatt, Professor Michaels and I were just on our way to dinner. Perhaps you could accept my offer to see me after class on Monday." Her eyes begged him to leave quietly.

"Oh so this is the Stanfield boy I've heard so much about!" James offered his hand to Wyatt. "I'm not a boy," Wyatt growled as he turned his angry gaze on Professor Michaels. His heart ached as he thought of her with another man.

Turning abruptly Wyatt muttered, "See you in class Professor."

Wyatt's legs felt leaden as he stumbled back through the park and finally sank down into the thick grass and sobbed. He tried to pull himself together, make sense of what she was doing with an older guy, Professor Michaels.

He felt sick as he hugged his knees close to his chest. The vision of him kissing her, such an intimate gesture, coming down from her bedroom, had she slept with him? Wyatt's body shook as he tried to keep his composure. None of this made any sense. She had to love him; didn't she whisper it in his ear when he made love to her?

He had to get away from here. Rising, Wyatt began to slowly trudge along the lake aimlessly. He had nowhere to go. Maybe the beach. He would need his car. As he headed toward home, Wyatt's cell began to ring.

His heart leapt; it had to be her. "Hello?" his voice sounded hopeful. "Wy? It's Cade. Where are you?" He barely hid the disappointment, "I'm at home," he lied.

"No, you're not. I was just there dropping off some care packages to my brothers and I had some snickerdoodles for you. So where are you? I'll come pick you up!" she said brightly.

"You made snickerdoodles?" Wyatt asked dubiously.

Cadence laughed, "Don't be stupid Wyatt; I can't cook. My mother made them. I'm just the mule. Where are you? I need to talk to you and if I leave these cookies at your house they'll be gone before you get them."

After quickly giving her directions to the campus coffee shop, Wyatt sprinted over there and waited for her.

University Quad ~ Starbuck's

They sat in silence eating the cookies and sipping lattes that Wyatt coerced the barista to make them despite the fact they were closing. "So Cade what did you need to talk to me about?" he asked between sips.

Cadence studied his face for a long time. She could see the pain in his eyes, the emotion he wore like a mask; she overheard Jason talking to their mother about what had happened, what Cooper had done, but Cadence wasn't so sure she should bring it up.

"I've been dancing you know," she began, "and there is a group of us from school who are going to perform on New Year's." Wyatt sat back in his chair, "That's great Cadie."

"I know, it is great and this photographer has been taking pictures of all the girls in the group. I haven't had mine done yet. My mom won't let me go alone and she hasn't had time to take me." Cadence paused while she took a few more sips of her latte.

"She told me that I'm not like the other girls. Because of who my father is, it's important for me to understand that the things I do are watched more closely, that my life isn't exactly "normal" like everyone else's."

Wyatt rose and walked toward the fountains that shot periodically out of the quad. Following him, Cadence touched his arm lightly, "My dad told me that sometimes decisions needed to be made that we wouldn't like. It was to protect us from people saying or doing things that might hurt us. It doesn't seem fair, but you know, I think I understand."

In a softer voice she told him, "It must be ten times worse for you Wyatt with everything you've been through." Wyatt turned toward her, eyes bright with unshed tears, "It sucks Cadence. I didn't ask for any of this."

"I know Wyatt," her voice was soothing, "but my mom explained that people are out there who want to exploit us and she's right. Can you imagine what a photographer could do with pictures of me if my mom wasn't there to watch out for me? So they make decisions we don't always understand or like but they do it out of love."

"You know don't you?" Wyatt turned to look at her. "Yes, Wyatt I do." She whispered, "Are you mad about that?" Wyatt wrapped his arms around Cadence, grateful to this young girl for trying to help. "No, Cadie I'm not mad. Thanks for trying to help."

"Don't thank me, Wy. That's what friends do; they take care of each other." They stood there in the dark looking at each other as if for the first time. "I better go," Cadence said, finally looking away.

They slowly walked back to the car and headed for home.

----------------------

NEXT CHAPTER: Stage Chapter 28

Chapter 5 ~ Terraced Dynamics

2008-12-20T04:00:00.000-08:00

Oceanside ~ Friday 10PM

Wyatt had driven as fast as he could to Oceanside running through all sorts of scenarios in his mind. He had been so wrapped up in his own thing, consumed with thoughts of Bailey, he had blown off the promise he made to his father. If something had happened…no, Marc had to be making it up.

Beth hadn't been answering her cell or the house phone. He had even tried their house in South Beach. It didn't matter; he had to see for himself.

He glanced back at Bailey who was sitting in the passenger seat absently looking out the window. She had very reluctantly agreed to ride along with him insisting she would sit in the car once they arrived. Her hope was to at least use the long drive to Oceanside to discuss what had become a very complicated relationship.

Wyatt was uneasy as he walked up to the front of the massive beach house. The street was dark, the house was dark. All Wyatt could hear was the roar of the waves as they crashed against the rocks. As he approached the front entrance, he fumbled in his pockets for the spare key Cooper had given him.

Standing there, attempting to put the key in the lock, Wyatt felt the air being sucked out of his lungs. His hands shook as his heart pounded against his chest and sweat beaded on his forehead. Gasping, trying to get a grip, catch his breath, he violently jerked his hand back.
Stumbling backward, needing to get away from the house, Wyatt retreated to his car feeling foolish but unable to shake off the overwhelming fear. "Bailey," Wyatt's voice broke. Alarmed, she got out of the car and asked, "Wyatt, what's wrong? Are you all right? You're white as a sheet!"

Wyatt grappled with how to say what he needed to say without sounding childish, " I can't…it's dark…I can't go in there…my mom…" Wyatt struggled to stay in control of his emotions, "Please, go in with me? I know it's a lot to ask but I just can't go in there. I can't do it alone. If anything happened…"

Bailey wrapped her arms around Wyatt and felt him trembling. "It's all right Wyatt. We'll go in together. Come on, it's going to be fine." Reluctantly Wyatt pulled away from her and smiled weakly as they walked along the cobbled entrance to the double doors and went inside.
The house was cold, quiet and dark as Wyatt quickly disabled the alarm. Moonlight filtered in from the windows and shimmered on the crystal chandelier in the entry. Wyatt glanced around unsure of where to begin. "Beth?" he called out tentatively. "I don't think anyone is here Wyatt," Bailey commented softly. Everywhere she looked there was a striking reminder of where she was; the man's presence was overwhelming.
Wyatt turned toward Bailey, his fear replaced by concern, "Something's not right here. I'm going to check the bedroom. Come on; it's this way."

Grasping her hand in his Wyatt led her toward the master bedroom. Bailey squeezed his hand reassuringly and then carefully drew it back.

Stepping through the etched glass doors, he stood in his father's bedroom and allowed his eyes to adjust to the darkness. His attention was immediately drawn to the iron bed. Moonbeams cast an eerie glow on the disheveled white sheets like a beacon in contrast to the ebony walls. It looked as though someone…

His face tightened as he walked around the room while Bailey stood, uncomfortable, near the door. Walking toward the fireplace, Wyatt could smell the remnant of a fire.

"Wyatt, we should leave," Bailey's voice echoed, "no one is here and we shouldn't be either." Carefully, Wyatt stepped past Bailey and went into the bath area examining it quickly before returning to her.

Wyatt's expression was taut, his jaw working furiously as he moved past her. "Come on, let's check the upstairs," he growled.

Striding purposefully toward the guest room with Bailey trailing behind, Wyatt sprinted up the stairs and shoved open the door to the guest room. He stood arms folded and stared at the perfectly made bed. "You could bounce a quarter off that," he mumbled.

"That son of a bitch!" he growled. "Wyatt, what's going on; what is it?" she pressed him. "Beth's bodyguard is what's going on," he spat. "He's screwing my father's wife!" "You don't know that Wyatt, why would you even say such a thing?"

He turned to face her, anger chasing away the fear he had earlier felt. "Did you see my father's bed? It was a mess! And Ryan's bed hasn't been slept in! He's fucking my step-mother!" Wyatt shouted.

Shoving through the door once more, Wyatt stormed down the stairs. "Wyatt you need to calm down and think about this. There is no proof of that and it is none of your business. You don't want to get in the middle of something without all the facts." His eyes were cold as he stopped and faced her again, "How do you think those sheets got all tangled up Bailey? Remember what yours looked like the night I came to you?"

Her cheeks flushed as she remembered that evening. More softly she answered, "All you have is a suspicion. What if you are wrong? What then? This is between your father and his wife. Are you willing to accuse her of something you aren't sure of?"

Wyatt paused, thought about it and wondered, "What time is it in Paris? It has to be morning there. I'm calling my father." He strode out toward the pool. "Wyatt, wait! You can't do this!" He stopped, his face masked with guilt, "I should have kept an eye on her like I promised. I gave him my word and I let him down. I feel responsible; I need to talk to my dad."

"And tell him what? His wife isn't here and the bed is messed up? How is that going to sound? What is that going to prove? All that will do is upset him over something you don't know for certain!" she pressed.

"I have to call him," he insisted. Pulling out his cell, Wyatt dialed.

Bailey wandered around the house glancing toward the door every so often to watch as Wyatt paced back and forth as he spoke to his father. She was realizing that coming with him was a mistake. She had hoped to convince him as they drove that they couldn't repeat the events of that Sunday night. They both had too much to lose.

Examining the poster that hung near the stairs she could feel Cooper's eyes bearing down on her. He wouldn’t like it, not one bit, and Bailey knew it. She could hardly blame him either; she was playing with fire and if they weren't careful she and Wyatt were both going to get hurt.

Sighing, she sat at the piano gently stroking the keys. Bailey concentrated on the glistening ivory as her fingers slid easily along them. Even here, she could feel Cooper's disapproving glare from the wall hanging as she intently focused on the music.
Wyatt silently approached her, placed his hands on her shoulders and softly dragged his fingers along her arm sending a bolt of electricity through her. "What did your father say, Wyatt?" His voice was calmer, "Beth is in Paris with my dad. She flew out to surprise him."

Bailey turned on the stool and listened. He sounded almost weary as he recounted his conversation with his father."You must be relieved that you didn't tell him your suspicions," she said.

Wyatt looked down at her consumed with the desire to loosen her hair until it fell across her shoulders. He could get lost in that hair. Damn, was he falling in love? That all consuming need to be with her, was that love? "Thank you for doing this, for coming with me. I don't think I would have made it through the door if you weren't here."

Bailey could feel his eyes undressing her. He was too close and it hindered her better judgment. "It's late," she whispered as she stood, "We should leave now. It will take hours to get back." Wyatt wrapped an arm around her and tugged on the strap of her shirt, "We could stay the night, leave in the morning. I haven't even had a chance to properly show you around the house."

Wyatt imagined swimming naked in the pool with her, making love in the hot tub, in front of the fireplace, in the tub. He leaned in and took her mouth with his. "Wyatt, we can't…"

He smiled, pulled her against him and kissed her with more urgency. She could feel the hard bulge pressing against her as his mouth moved languidly on hers. A soft moan escaped as his hands deftly roamed the length of her body. Her mind, her heart, and her body were at war as she felt herself giving in once more to the passion she knew was wrong but couldn't resist.

Oceanside ~ Saturday, late morning

Wyatt swung his long legs over the edge of the bed trying to shake off the sleep. It was late morning; they had been up most of the night and he smiled at the thought of having fulfilled most of the fantasies he had. Bailey had blatantly refused to sleep in his father's bed so they opted for the guest room.

As Wyatt watched Bailey sleep he recalled her insistence at length on the drive over that they could not see each other again. She had been adamant since the first time that it wasn't going to happen again.

Previous Sunday ~ 4AM

"Wyatt, wake up, it's nearly morning," Bailey gently placed her hand on his bicep and shook him. Mumbling incoherently and his mind still clouded from their night of passion, Wyatt sat up. "Wyatt," she coaxed, "you have to leave! Did you drive here? God, is your car out front?"

Bailey quickly padded downstairs her hair a tangled mess, the back door still ajar from last night. She stood briefly in the hallway remembering the passion they shared right there against the wall. She exhaled as her body quivered at the thought.

Glancing through the front window, and she would need to get blinds if this was going to continue…No, she thought firmly, this can't happen again. Seeing Wyatt's car parked outside she groaned inwardly.

Wyatt groggily descended the stairs calling out in a hoarse voice, "Bailey, come back to bed." He slipped his arms around her and planted a seductive kiss on her bare shoulder biting her gently until she shuddered.

Turning, her face serious, she urged, "You need to go home Wyatt. As it is, we took a huge risk…I took a huge risk allowing you in my home, my bed." Wyatt stepped back, "You think it was a mistake? You can't believe that!"

Bailey's face softened, "Wyatt, this is faculty housing around here. I wasn't thinking…YOU weren't thinking, coming here in the middle of the night! You have to get out of here!" Looking down over his shoulder and talking more to herself than to him she reasoned, "Maybe no one will see you; I can come up with some reason for you being here…something plausible, if they did."

Pulling her hard against his body, damn he wanted her again, he teased, "Next time I'll walk or bring a bike or you can come to my place…" Bailey pushed away from him, "There isn't going to be a next time Wyatt! This was dangerous, wrong, it's too risky!"

His eyes narrowed slightly as he weighed her words against the reaction she was having to him. Her body was trembling slightly, her breasts heaving. Without saying anything Wyatt took her in his arms again, his fingers entwined in her thick red hair.

Wyatt drew her into a deep kiss as he pressed her tightly against him. He could feel her heartbeat pounding against his chest as she responded once more, hands groping until they fell to the floor legs wrapped around each other.

Having slipped on a pair of sweats he found in a drawer, Wyatt made his way to the kitchen and made himself an espresso. "I guess I put that argument to rest," he thought smugly as he slowly sipped on the hot brew.

Wyatt stepped out onto the patio and looked out over the ocean. It was clear and quiet, the salty smell of the ocean refreshing as he watched the waves break along the shore. He threw his legs easily over the balustrade that surrounded the pool feeling a sense of calm as he inhaled the fresh ocean air.

The sound of her footsteps drew him back from his reverie. "You're dressed; I thought we might go for a swim in the ocean," he told her. "We really need to talk Wyatt." Bailey kept her distance from him; she needed to get through to him, needed to end this before it got ugly and painful for both of them.

Ignoring her Wyatt continued, "Beth won't be back for awhile so we have the house to ourselves. I have a thing I need to do tonight but you can stay here, wait for me and we can spend the entire weekend doing whatever we want. I could pick up some clothes for you…"

"No! You need to listen to me Wyatt! This is a train wreck waiting to happen! Don't you get it? It doesn't matter how much I enjoy being with you or how much you want to be with me; I could lose everything I have worked so hard for with one slip, one mistake!"

Exasperated, she stepped toward the balustrade and stared out at the ocean, unable to meet his gaze. In a softer voice she went on, "If our relationship gets out, it won't just ruin my life Wyatt, it will ruin yours. You could be expelled from the university and no matter how much money your father throws at another one, they may not let you in. I don't want to risk that for you. You have so much talent, a gift; I don't want to be the cause for you not realizing your potential."

He stood behind her, confused and hurt. "Bailey, please turn around and look at me?" he pleaded gently. Sighing, she turned and looked him in the eyes. "You know I'm right Wyatt. If you think about it, you know I'm right."

"You don't understand how I feel about you! I…I think…" he stammered trying to say the words. Why was it so difficult?

Bailey pressed her fingers against his mouth, "No, Wyatt don't even try to say this is something more than it is." Straightening herself she announced firmly, "When you leave to head back to the university you can drop me off near the library. I can walk to my house from there."

"I'm going to straighten up the house and then we'll leave," she said as she turned and walked away. Wyatt watched her disappear through the double doors confused, his heart pounding in his chest.

"This isn't over, Bailey," he vowed, "No way this is over."

University Row ~ Saturday 7PM

Wyatt stared at his reflection in the bathroom mirror. His mind was still in a fog as he went over all that Bailey had said to him. Trying to convince her otherwise on the drive back had been futile, every argument he threw at her, she shot down firmly. She had treated him no differently in class, he understood that part, but not being with her, not being able to see her outside of class was going to make him crazy. He wanted her, he couldn't keep his mind off of her and she was going to end it.

She said it was for the best but that wasn't going to work for him. Wyatt was determined to get through to her somehow. Shrugging on his clothes, Wyatt descended to the main floor only to be greeted by Jason and Jett who stood poised to grill him about Cadence.

"Don't embarrass my sister, Wy. You know this means a lot to her; I still can't believe you are doing this," Jason assessed his appearance and shook his head. "I still don't know what you were thinking offering to take her in the first place." "Be sure you have her home on time," Jett added, realizing he sounded more like his father than he thought possible.

"Shut up and let me by, I'm already late," he retorted. Glaring at them, Wyatt pushed past his roommates and headed for the door. As they watched him leave, Jett remarked, "Jase, you don't think Wy and Cade…" Jett paused dwelling on the thought. Jason folded his arms, "No way; don't even go there."

South Beach ~ Mitchell Residence 8PM

Wyatt glanced up at the balcony that jutted out from the room Peri converted to a study for Cadence. Taking a deep breath he swore he would let go of the last 24 hours and focus on Cade. This was her night and he was going to insure that it was memorable for her.

As soon as he rang the bell, Peri answered the door looking a little fatigued but still wearing a pleasant smile. "Come on in Wyatt; Cadence is just finishing up. Can I get you something to drink?" "No thanks Mrs. Mitchell, I'm good." Wyatt glanced around the room.. "Looks like you've been busy," he mused. "I always get stir crazy when Heydon is away so I tend to redecorate," she laughed.

"I'm going to check on Cadence and see if she needs any help," Peri said as she lightly ascended the stairs.

A few moments later Cadence was floating down the stairway looking prettier than he had ever seen her. Wyatt smiled as he watched her gracefully approach him; she still had that same mischievous sparkle in her eyes but she was definitely no longer a little girl.

He found himself admiring her a little more openly than he should have; Cadence had filled out nicely and her dress clung to her lithe body revealing every soft curve.

"You look incredible," Wyatt told her as she twirled for him to get the full effect. "Thanks! Did you bring me a corsage?" "Cadence!" Peri scolded. Wyatt grinned at her, "Damn I left it in the car; do you want me to go get it? I'm a little rusty at this." Laughing gleefully, "No that's okay; I knew you wouldn't forget. I only told you about a dozen times what color to get."

Wyatt took her arm, "We should probably get going." Cadence smoothed the front of her dress, "I want to be fashionably late so that everyone sees when we walk in together. I want everyone there to notice us." "Well I'll tell you one thing; there won't be another girl there that looks prettier than you Cade. And I'll guarantee that Travis Wheeler will deeply regret not taking you."

Cadence smiled and led Wyatt to the door, "I know you will. Bye Mom; don't wait up!" she called over her shoulder. Peri watched them from the doorway shouting out to them, "Wyatt you have her home on time! And have fun you two!"

The Villa Palms ~ 9PM

Cadence and Wyatt walked along the sidewalk toward the banquet room where the prom was being held. "Cadence, wait! Slow down!" She turned to look at him hands on hips and impatiently asked, "What?" He stood there looking at her for a moment, amused, before continuing, "If you want to make a spectacular entrance, you shouldn't be in such a hurry to get in there. We need to time this just right."

Wyatt and Cadence hovered near the door for a little while nodding briefly as couples passed by and noticed them. Hearing the DJ announce the first slow song of the night, Wyatt made his move. Taking her hand, Wyatt escorted her slowly and deliberately onto the dance floor and immediately took her in his arms. All eyes turned to notice them; the girls whispered with an expression of surprise and envy as they recognized Wyatt with Cadence.

He led her around the dance floor pulling her close, pleased at the expression of sheer joy on her face. She leaned in close and whispered, "There's Travis. You should see the look on his face…don't look!"

Leaning in so that his mouth moved softly against her ear Wyatt murmured, "All right Cadence, go with me on this…" Wyatt's lips dragged along her slender neck until they brushed against hers. A look of surprise turned to recognition as she allowed him to kiss her.

Pulling back slightly Wyatt smiled at her, "You should see the look on his face now." Cadence was too stunned to move, her heart rapidly beating against her chest. She swallowed and nodded, unable to speak. She had been kissed before but never, ever did it feel like that. It was unsettling to say the least.

"Cade?" Wyatt's voice brought back her focus. "You know what?" she announced, "I need to go check my makeup." Turning abruptly she gathered her composure and walked smoothly toward the ladies room while a confused Wyatt watched her walk away.

Cadence studied her face in the mirror. Her cheeks were flushed, probably the dancing, she decided. Smoothing her hair and checking her dress, she didn't notice the girls that had walked in.

"Cadence you look amazing!" gushed the blonde who seemed to be at the center of the small group. Cadence stared back at her from the mirror. Lindsey Mayberry, the prom queen, thorn in her side, stood there wearing her stupid tiara and smiling at her like they were best friends, looked back at her and waited for some response.

Turning around to face her, Cadence asked, "What do you want Lindsey?" "I just felt so bad about the thing with Travis! But since we are here together and you came with Wyatt Stanfield, I thought we could, you know, hang out, the four of us!" Lindsey flashed her plastic prom queen smile and fully expected Cadence to go along.

"Oh don't worry about it Lindsey; you really did me a favor taking Travis off my hands. When Wyatt found out I was going with Travis…well he didn't like it, not at all. It was going to get ugly with Wyatt being so jealous. I think things turned out for the best!"

Cadence smiled triumphantly and slowly pushed past Lindsey whose mouth was gaping open. She knew it would get back to Travis although somehow it didn't seem to matter much.

Finding her way to the pool, Cadence slid onto the cool marble bench and took a deep breath of the salty air. The waves lapped quietly on the shoreline. Footsteps approaching drew her attention as she watched Wyatt slowly stride toward her. "Cade, you all right?" he asked.

She smiled up at him, "I'm fine. Never better. Can we get out of here? Maybe go somewhere else; I don't feel like going home yet but I don't want to be here anymore." "Are you sure?" he asked her, "We haven't been here that long."

"I'm sure," she replied as she stood. "Let's go bowling!" He looked at her dumbfounded, "Bowling? You want to go bowling?" Laughing, Cadence declared, "No, ice skating! You are so taking me ice skating. Come on let's go!"

Taking his hand, she pulled him toward the exit chattering the entire time.

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NEXT CHAPTER: South Beach Chapter 37

Chapter 4 ~ Duets

2008-11-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

AN: Song in the playlist is All or Nothing by Theory of a Deadman.

Wyatt's Rental ~ Sunday Night

"So what do you think?" Wyatt asked Lucy. He just finished the final touches to their overture and hoped she approved. She looked up at him amazed, "I think its perfect; it's tragic and beautiful."

She hesitated a moment considering whether she should say what was on her mind. Lucy had not wanted to be partnered with Wyatt. She knew that for whatever reason, he was not on Professor Walker's good list and worried that it would affect her grade. Finally she blurted out, "I never would have thought something so classical would come out of you; I was really concerned about being teamed with you Wyatt. I'm sorry for that."

Wyatt stood up and stretched lazily. He would never get used to being underestimated but at least it no longer surprised him. "That's all right Luce and anyway half the grade is yours. You did as much work as I did."

Lucy smiled warmly at him. She was unusually pretty and Wyatt found her funny and smart. "Hey, I'm sort of hungry; would you like something to eat? I can fix us something if you want." "You can cook?" she asked him dubiously. Laughing, Wyatt assured her he wouldn't poison her.

When they had finished eating Lucy sighed and looked once more at Wyatt. She would be lying if she said she wasn't star struck. Everyone loved Mercury Rising and Wyatt was as hot as his father. She blushed at the thought.

"What?" Wyatt asked her curiously, "do I have food on my face?" "No, nothing like that…" her voice trailed off, "I really should be going."

Walking her to the door Wyatt leaned in and asked, "So maybe we could do this again, the eating thing, like a date?" Lucy's heart fluttered wildly, "I'd love to!" she barely choked out the words. As he contemplated whether or not to try and kiss her, Lucy moved in giving him a soft kiss.

"See you in class," she whispered.

Central Campus ~ Student Housing

Jett slipped his arm around Lorrah and whispered softly in her ear. The steam rising in the cool evening from the warm water that gently bubbled around them was nothing compared to the heat he felt as their bodies rubbed against each other. Lorrah had never been modest in showing off her body but allowing Jett any further liberties was something she shied away from.

Carefully undoing her bikini top, Jett pulled her close to him allowing his hands to explore her body. He deftly slipped one hand inside her bikini bottom and tugged until he liberated them from her hips. “Jett I’m just not ready to go all the way,” she gasped as he slid his hand upward along her inner thigh.

“It’s all right baby,” he murmured as his lips trailed from her soft neck to her shoulders, nibbling playfully lower and lower until he found her breast. His mouth still working his magic on her, Jett pulled her onto him, breathing heavily.

“Baby I want you so bad,” he moaned as he ran his hands along her hips grinding his throbbing erection against her.

Lorrah pulled back before she was completely swept away. “Jett…I can’t…I…it’s too soon,” she weakly protested. Truth was, Lorrah wasn’t sure if she could hold back much longer. Jett was much more experienced than she was and knew exactly what to do to drive her wild.

Shutting his eyes, Jett tried to compose himself. “All right Lorrah, I’m sorry. It’s just…” he glanced over at her through half open eyes that immediately fell to her heaving breasts as the water playfully teased her nipples and felt his composure slipping away again.

Turning his back to her, he rose from the hot tub. “I probably should get going. It’s getting late.” Jett slowly got out of the hot tub gingerly stepping across the deck and walked toward the house to change.

Lorrah followed him, pulling a terrycloth robe around her hastily as she tried to keep up with him. “Jett, wait! Please don’t be upset. Are you upset with me?” she implored following him to the bedroom.

He had already dried off and pulled his jeans on when she walked into the bedroom. Lorrah’s cheeks were still flushed from the heat of both the hot tub and their make out session, which Jett found oddly arousing. The couple just stared at each other for several silent moments until Lorrah weakly reasoned, “My roommates might have walked out there and seen us Jett. Please understand…”

“They aren’t here in this room, Lorrah. What’s stopping you now?” He took a tentative step toward her as she stiffened slightly. Brushing his hand against her cheek Jett said, “I want to show you how I feel about you baby, what you do to me when I'm with you." Jett pulled her close and kissed her tenderly. "I won't make you do anything you don't want; I'll never force you baby; I just want you so bad and I wish you wanted me too."

Lorrah gently sat on the edge of the bed and stared at his bare feet. "I do want you Jett," she whispered. He stood in front of her and waited. Her eyes trailed up his legs stopping briefly at the bulge between his legs before focusing on his vivid green eyes.

Blushing she rose and drew him close to her. "Show me now Jett, take me to bed." Lorrah shrugged her robe off and pressed her body against Jett kissing him with an abandon she never before had shown him.

Pulling his jeans carefully down, she laid back on the bed with Jett as he covered her with kisses. Jett could barely contain himself as he poised himself above her, hesitating as she stiffened again.

"Are you sure Lorrah?" Jett studied her face for any sign of hesitation. "I'm sure," her mouth moved against his driving him insane. Sliding between her legs, Jett began to push inside her as she let out a sudden gasp.

"Am I the first?" his throaty question answered by a gentle nod from Lorrah and a deep kiss. He could no longer hold back and thrust deep inside her.

"I love you," Lorrah's soft breath whispered in Jett's ear as he slept, content, beside her.

Duffey Hall ~ Monday Morning

Wyatt and Lucy sat at the electric pianos and performed their overture Monday morning as Professor Walker listened intently. It was haunting and tragic, exactly what the movement called for but what stood out to Bailey was the connection between the performers.

There was no mistaking the looks that passed between Lucy and Wyatt and it made her feel somewhat unsettled. Shaking it off, she congratulated the pair and called on the next pair to present their work.

When class was over, Lucy hung back and waited for Wyatt as he gathered his things. "Wyatt I wondered if I might have a moment?" Professor Walker called out to him over the din of students passing from one class to the next. Glancing between the two, he told Lucy he would catch up to her later as he walked toward the professor following her into her small office.

She smelled of lavender and lilac; Wyatt found himself studying her more intently than he meant. In fact, his pulse had quickened and his stomach was fluttering as he fought the urge to brush the tendrils of soft red hair from her face. Damn, no way, did he have a thing for his professor? Not in any universe was that going to work.

Bailey looked up at him from her desk, "I wanted to thank you again for rescuing me Friday night. I feel like I owe you…" her voice trailed off as she tried to come up with some reward. "You don't owe me anything Bai…Professor Walker. Did they fix your car?" he asked trying to get his mind off her soft curves and the way her mouth pouted slightly.

"Not yet…" What in the hell was she doing? Bailey could see how he was looking at her. Normally that would have incensed her but she welcomed it, wanted it, and wanted him. She had to be crazy; he was her student. End this now before it gets out of control. "Well thank you all the same. You should probably get to class…"

Bailey rose and stepped toward him placing her hand gently on his arm. That's right, encourage him Bailey, you idiot. Pulling her hand back she smiled slightly, "Go! You'll be late Mr. Stanfield!"

And just like that Wyatt snapped out of his fantasies.

Wyatt's Rental ~ Monday Night

It was dark by the time Wyatt got back to the house after grabbing a quick bite with Lucy near the student union. Jason and Jett were nowhere to be seen and Wyatt tossed his keys down, switched on the stereo, stripped down and headed for the hot tub to clear his head and ease his muscles.

Settling back, allowing the jets to massage his tired body, Wyatt's thoughts drifted in a direction he didn't intend. The encounter with Professor Walker still plagued him. He tried to make sense of the attraction. She was beautiful; he wasn't blind or oblivious to that or to her change in attitude toward him.

It couldn't work. No good would come of any sort of relationship; don't even think about it. Was he thinking about it? The consequences would be bad for both of them. The price was too high…if he went for it. No, his father would kill him…for all he knew his father may have had the same feelings for a professor and acted on it, not that he would admit it to Wyatt.

The music…what was this music anyway? Some sort of easy listening, a quiet storm of music lulled him as his mind drifted to the possibilities in front of him. Wyatt closed his eyes and went with it; the undulating heat adding to and arousing his overactive imagination.

Through the hazy steam he fantasized about Professor Walker, Bailey, walking toward him seductively, slowly. Carefully and deliberately she stripped off her clothes and released the pins that held her hair in place as it tumbled wildly around her face and breasts. His breathing became ragged as his temperature rose, blood pounding.

Wyatt moaned softly as he imagined her stepping into the hot tub, one long leg after the other, her lips parted, and her eyes caressing his body, focused on the object of her desire. His heart raced as he shifted his weight, the jets hammering hard against him.

"Wyatt…"

"Wyatt?"

His body shuddered slightly as he opened eyes slowly at first and then threw them open wide as he realized he was not alone.

"What are you doing here!" he demanded, horrified at how much she may have observed. "You know your door isn't locked? I was looking around for my brothers; I needed to talk to them but I guess they aren't here. I saw you out here so I thought I'd say hi," she chattered.

Cadence flopped down on the stone tiles and examined her nails absently. "Gimme that towel next to you and look the other way! I'm not dressed!" Wyatt grabbed the towel and wrapped it around him hastily and sat on the edge of the hot tub.

Relieved at the idea that she may not have realized what had been going on, Wyatt asked Cadence again, more soothingly, "So why are you here Cade?" Wyatt thought he saw a flash of sadness cross her face that ripped at him a little. "Travis Wheeler was taking me to the homecoming dance up until some blonde bimbo asked him to go. She's going to be the prom queen so he dumped me to go with her!"

Wyatt smiled gently, "So what did you think your brothers were going to do about it half punk?" Cadence stood up and walked toward the house, "I don't know, beat him up, do something…" She turned and looked at him, "I have a dress, shoes, everything. The dance is Saturday. Everyone I know is going. No boy I would go with is free; everyone has a date. Everyone but me!"

A wave of anger swept over Wyatt as he saw the hurt and disappointment in Cadie's face. He would deal with Travis Wheeler but for now, he wanted to do something for her. "Hey, you know what? I'll go with you to the dance Cade, if it wouldn't embarrass you."

She looked up at him, on the verge of tears. When had she gotten so pretty anyway? Wyatt wondered how any guy would dump Cadence. She was funny, smart, graceful, "Well? What do you say?" he gently prodded.

That mischievous expression found its way back to her face as her eyes twinkled, "Are you serious? Me walk in on the arm of Wyatt Stanfield? It's brilliant!" Looking into his eyes once more she asked, "You'd really do this for me Wy? It isn't beneath you to go to a high school dance with your best friends' little sister?" "Not at all Cade; I'd be honored. Those guys will be banging down your door to get with you after Saturday night," he assured her.

Cadence threw her arms around Wyatt's neck and hugged him tightly, catching him off balance. "You're the best Wyatt. Thank you!" she breathed in his ear.

"I better get home. My mom is going to kill me as it is…" smiling shyly Cadence looked up at him again. "I'll see you Saturday Wyatt."

Tossing her shiny black hair over her shoulders, Cadence bounded out the door and headed home. Wyatt watched her leave absently toying with the edge of the towel around his waist, distracted and unsettled once again. His thoughts drifted back to Professor Walker and his fantasy of earlier.

His jaw set, his eyes narrowed slightly and determined, Wyatt hastily pulled on his clothes and headed out the door.

East Campus ~ Bailey's Loft

What was he thinking standing outside her house in the middle of the night? Only a dim light could be seen filtering down from the loft. Her bedroom…she wasn't sleeping.

Wyatt carefully made his way to the back of the small house and knocked on the door. He saw her form shadowed on the wall as she made her way down the stairs. Too late Wyatt realized the mistake in coming here. He had not thought it through. What would he say? What was she going to do finding him here in the middle of the night?

Bailey opened the door and gasped imperceptibly. "Wyatt…"

Those lips parted, her tongue licking them absently as they gazed at each other. The air crackled between them; Wyatt could feel it grazing his skin, intense, vibrating throughout his body.

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NEXT CHAPTER: South Beach Chapter 35

Chapter 3 ~ Pas de Deux

2008-11-14T20:29:00.000-08:00

Duffey Hall: Friday morning

Wyatt quickly settled into a routine with school. He was enjoying his music classes and finding them more challenging than he anticipated. The friction between Wyatt and Professor Walker was still there; Wyatt did his best to keep under her radar. So far he was doing well and still able to focus on his own music.

“All right class, you’ve been given a partner for next week’s assignment. Each team has been given the name of a classic composer and an excerpt from literature. Your assignment is to create an overture in the style of the composer that portrays the literature you’ve been given,” Professor Walker looked up briefly, “you’re dismissed. Enjoy your weekend.”

As the class filed out, Professor Walker walked toward Wyatt, “Mr. Stanfield, I’d like to see you after class.” Wyatt groaned inwardly. What had he done now to draw her attention? Exchanging glances with Jett, he waited until the rest of the class was gone before approaching the professor.

Keeping his voice as non confrontational as he could Wyatt asked, “You wanted to see me?” Professor Walker studied him for several moments. She had met his father once when she was first hired at the university. He had supported their music department with generous contributions and was not at all the embodiment of the spoiled, indulgent rock star that she had expected.

Experience with the offspring of those self indulgent rock stars had jaded her opinion however. She tried not to judge Wyatt in the same way but she had not seen any evidence that he was any different than the rest of the spoiled youth that attended her classes. “I believe you have something that belongs to me,” she told him.

Confused, Wyatt stared at Professor Walker. “What are you talking about? I never took anything that belonged to you!” he exploded. “Give me a break; what did I do to you that you’re so hot to get me! You come at me every chance you get!”

Her eyes narrowed, “I am not 'hot to get you' Mr. Stanfield. The other day in my office, you hastily gathered up the papers you knocked over and took some work that belongs to me. I want it back!” she snapped.

Drawing a sharp breath, Wyatt stammered defensively, “I haven’t even looked at those papers…they were…I…my notebook had some music…” Why did she make him feel like an awkward teenager caught cheating on an exam?

Softening a bit, Professor Walker told Wyatt, “I had hoped to work on them this weekend. Please just bring them to class next time.” She was pleasant, almost attractive when she wasn’t scowling at him. Wyatt was struggling to keep his emotions in check; he wasn't even sure what they were; only that he was confused by her. Never before had he struggled to understand a girl's needs so what was the difference here?

"You had better hurry to your next class, Mr. Stanfield. I'll see you Monday morning," she said, her stern tone breaking into his thoughts. He looked at her once more; she couldn't be that much older than he was. Wyatt imagined she would look even younger with her hair falling down around her face and shoulders.

"What are you looking at?" Professor Walker said heatedly. "Go! We're done here!" Turning on the heel of his boot, Wyatt took long strides toward the door muttering under his breath.

Wyatt's Rental: Friday 9PM

Wyatt paced back and forth, agitated and angry. Both Jason and Jett were out for the evening. It was a Friday night, an evening Wyatt would have normally been out himself if it had not been for the black mood that consumed him. Realizing that she had his composition book with all his music set him off. The idea that she would look at it, criticize it, was too much for him.

Cursing vehemently, he grabbed his keys intent on heading back to campus. It was common knowledge that Professor Walker spent Friday evening going over class work and preparing the following week’s agenda. The sooner he returned her papers the sooner he could forget about her.

Duffey Hall: Friday evening

“This cannot be happening,” she muttered as she stared intently at her car as if the look alone would start the engine. Leaning against it, frustrated and wishing she could replace the relic, she inhaled deeply. “All right, all right, call campus security. They can probably find jumper cables somewhere,” she told herself.

Searching through her bag for her cell Professor Walker realized she left it in the office. “Shit,” she spat as she contemplated the very long walk home. As she weighed her options, headlights pointed in her direction.

“Professor Walker,” Wyatt got out of the car and walked toward her cautiously. Watching him, her eyes narrowed slightly, “Perfect,” she thought, "to what do I owe the pleasure?" Her voice was tinged with venom.

Wyatt took a breath and willed himself not to react. Still confused by the animosity and his inability to ignore it, he explained, "I figured I would return your papers tonight…the sooner the better." Lame, he told himself, you sound like a whipped school boy. "Anyway, I need my music back too; I was working on something and wanted to finish it this weekend."

Professor Walker watched him as he shifted his weight. She knew he was uncomfortable and found it oddly satisfying. "Your music must be sitting in the pile of papers in my living room," she replied. "I'll make you a deal, if you can give me a jump, you can follow me home and I'll give them to you tonight."

"Your car won't start?" Wyatt asked her. "Aren't you clever figuring that out all by yourself?" her tone more biting than she intended. Why did he bring out the worst in her? "I guess I'm clever enough to have roadside assistance," Wyatt shot back, "but since you don't seem to be interested in my help…" Wyatt turned and headed toward his car.

"Wait…I'm sorry…it's been a long day and I've been keeping this relic running with chewing gum and spit. I'm just frustrated, that's all. I don't mean to take it out on you Wyatt," Professor Walker seemed genuinely sorry. Leaning against his car Wyatt regarded her, his expression impassive. That was the first time she had referred to him by his first name; she called him Mr. Stanfield during class, always emphasizing his last name. Wyatt was sorely tempted to leave her stranded but his upbringing got the best of him. Pulling out his cell, he called for a tow.

Her car headed for the shop, Professor Walker considered her options. It was bad enough that she had to rely on Wyatt's assistance; now she was considering asking him for a lift home, a thought that did not sit well with her. As if reading her thoughts, Wyatt reluctantly offered her a ride. Equally reluctant, she accepted. "So this is your car?" she asked as she eyed the shiny red Beetle, "I'm surprised your father didn't buy you an expensive sports car to impress the girls."

"I inherited it; the car was my mom's," he quietly responded. Wyatt stole a glance as he started the car; Professor Walker's cheeks were flushed with embarrassment. Wyatt seized the opportunity, "What I inherited from my dad is pretty impressive, so I'm told." Professor Walker turned toward him and glared, "I assume you are referring to your musical talent?"

Wyatt smiled smugly, "Of course; what did you think I was talking about?" They sat in silence the rest of the way across campus.

East Campus: Professor Walker's Residence

The loft style house where Professor Walker lived was small but inviting Wyatt noticed as he walked toward the front entrance. She unlocked the door and stepped inside gesturing for Wyatt to follow. Looking around Wyatt decided that the organized clutter suited Professor Walker. Music, books, and candles were strewn around the small living room. In fact, the entire house from what he could see was very eclectic, yet another reflection of what he perceived as Professor Walker’s style.

“It isn’t much, I’m afraid;” her tone was self-deprecating, “the entire place is probably about the size of your guest bathroom.” Wyatt's temper flared and he snapped, “Why do you do that? You don’t know anything about me or my family!” She crossed her arms, eyes blazing, “Do what? State the obvious? You want to stand there and tell me my entire house won’t fit inside the bathroom of one of your father’s many mansions?”

Wyatt stood so close to her that he could count the freckles scattered across her cheeks and nose. “I’m not my father,” he snarled, his voice intense and vibrating. Her lips parted as she tried to speak but couldn’t. Wyatt’s eyes drifted to her full lips and then back to her limpid blue eyes.

She lowered her eyes as if in surrender, and glanced toward the phone whose message light blinked repeatedly. “I should probably check that,” she said in a shaky voice as she turned toward the machine and pressed the Play button.

“Hello Bailey…this is James…Professor Michaels. I wanted to have a word with you regarding the battle of the bands debacle that is scheduled for November. Perhaps we could meet over dinner? Drinks? Say the Bottom's Up Club? Call me, Bailey please?”

Punching the button mid-message, Bailey looked at Wyatt, her cheeks flushed again. “It isn’t what you think…” she stuttered. “You’re not my girl; it doesn’t matter to me. Maybe if you just give me my music, I can take off,” Wyatt responded suddenly feeling uncomfortable and oddly jealous.

Looking around the room for the music, Bailey wondered where she had put it. “I think I may have put it up on the piano. Upstairs, you can just run up and grab it; I need to return this call.” Without saying anything, Wyatt headed for the stairs and went up. “And leave mine while you’re up there!” she yelled toward the loft.

Wyatt stopped at the top of the stairs and glanced around the room. A towel was draped over a mirror that stood against one wall and just beyond was a massive bed. Approaching the bed Wyatt ran his fingers along the silk teddy lying across the foot of the bed.

Wyatt found himself aroused at the simple gesture, the delicate fabric sliding along his long fingers. Jerking his hand back as if snake bitten, he turned to the grand piano shoved in the opposite corner. Bailey’s muffled voice drifted softly up to the loft as Wyatt sat at her piano and began playing softly.

He was soon lost in the haunting melody and didn’t hear her footsteps approaching along the stairs. She stood behind him mesmerized; the music coming from this young man moved her deeply. Sensing her presence, Wyatt stopped abruptly. “That was incredibly beautiful; I don’t think I’ve heard that before. Where did you learn it?” she breathed.

Rising from the bench, he walked toward her wearing an expression that was difficult to interpret. “I wrote it,” he said simply. “I should be going,” he continued, “I hope things turn out with your car.” Wyatt collected his music and headed back down the stairs with Bailey following behind.

Bailey reached out and gently grasped Wyatt’s arm, “Wyatt,” she hesitated, “Thank you…for the rescue.” Bailey studied Wyatt as if seeing him for the first time. “You’re welcome Professor Walker, good night.”

~*~*~*~*~

"I knew you would come back. I hoped..." His touch ignited her. "Shhh, we don't need words..."

"No words...do you hear it? The music? It's everywhere..."

"You are the music Bailey, my music. Let's go back to bed..."

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NEXT CHAPTER: South Beach Chapter 34

Chapter 2 ~ Aleatory Music

2008-08-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

University Row ~ Fall Semester, Sunday Evening

Wyatt and Jason sat huddled in the living room going over their class schedules. Tomorrow they would attend their first classes. Looking up, Jason glanced over at the pool where Jett was lounging with Lorrah, the girl he met at the Pizza Palace and had been dating regularly. “Has he even looked at his schedule of classes?” Jason muttered.

Laughing, Wyatt responded, “I have no idea although I think he and I have one or two classes together, Music Theory and History of Music.” Jason winced, “Oh man those classes are both taught by Professor Walker. I hear she is a righteous bitch! Hard, mean…probably a spinster who decided to take out her lonely and resentful life on unsuspecting college students.”

Wyatt smiled as the mental image of a bitter, wrinkled music teacher formed in his imagination. "Well the classes should be a breeze, at least the theory class," he responded casually.

Jason rose, stretched and looked once more out the window at his brother getting hot and heavy with his girl. Shaking his head, he turned and headed toward the elevator. "I'm going to get cleaned up and grab some dinner. I hear there's a great seafood place nearby that just opened up. You want to come?"

Rising himself, Wyatt shook his head, "Nah, I'm going to stay in and write some music, maybe hit the rack early."

Central Campus ~ Student Housing
Lorrah strolled up the black brick walkway and pushed open the heavy glass and wooden door to the rental she shared with her childhood friends. Glancing at the couch she smiled slightly and headed toward the kitchen area. "You're still up Chloe? It's awfully late."

Looking away from the newspaper she picked up at the student union, Chloe watched as Lorrah picked up the wall phone and dialed, answering softly, "I can't sleep yet. I'm too excited I guess. Who are you calling?"

As she waited for the call to go through, Lorrah whispered, "Jett…he probably isn't home yet but I thought I'd leave him a message before I go to bed." Turning away she walked toward the kitchen and spoke softly into the phone.

Settling into the seat next to Chloe, Lorrah smiled, "So you can't sleep huh? I could make you some Chamomile if you want; it always relaxes me." Chloe regarded her for a few moments before answering, "Maybe…Lorrah I hope you aren't rushing into things with Jett. I know he's a nice guy but you haven't known him for very long…" Interrupting, Lorrah assured her, "No, we're taking it slow but honestly Chloe I think he's the one!"

Helena had come down the stairs when she heard the girls talking and, noticing the tie around her friend's neck, asked, "Where'd you get the necktie Lor?" "It's Jett's; he tied it around my neck earlier this evening. Kind of a remembrance, not that I need one."

Helena paused, not wanting to put a damper on her friend's spirits. "A remembrance? Did something happen?" She had always been cautious when it came to boys and was worried Lorrah might be moving way too fast. "Look Lorrah, guys like Jett can be very sweet but a lot of times they just want one thing. I'm not saying Jett is like that but please don’t rush into anything."

Laughing Lorrah replied, "No, nothing happened, Helena. If I didn't know better, I'd think you two planned this little lecture." Helena looked over at Chloe and smiled. "Honestly you two would think I've never had a boyfriend before," Lorrah continued, "I know what I'm doing and I know Jett. He really cares for me Helena."

"Correct me if I'm wrong but you have only known him for a few weeks. We're just trying to watch out for you isn't that right Chloe?" Folding her paper, Chloe walked toward the girls, "It isn't that we don't have faith in your judgment Lorrah, we do, but Jett is…well he's the son of a rock star. As nice as he is, you should just take your time, that's all."

The girls curled up on the floor and continued their conversation, "Haven't you always told me to follow my heart Clo? That's what I'm doing. I have a feeling, a really good feeling about Jett. Anyway, we are taking it slow. Nothing is going to happen that I don't want to happen. I trust him. And you shouldn't stereotype."

Chloe knew there wasn't much she could say to dissuade Lorrah's feelings. She was smitten and was going to follow her heart no matter what. Exhaling, she responded, "Yes, that is what I told you but sometimes the heart and the head aren't on the same frequency. Sometimes you need to listen to the mind and not let the heart override common sense. And I'm not stereotyping; I'm just asking you to be careful."

"What's going on?" Antonia flopped onto the couch and looked from face to face. "Did I miss something?" Lorrah stared at Chloe, "Yeah, apparently my friends don't think I know my own heart and mind. Jett and I are close. It's real but we aren't moving fast I swear. He's been a total gentleman."
Rising once more, Lorrah headed slowly toward her room. Watching as she reached for the door Chloe called out, "Lorrah, it's just that we care and don't want you to get hurt, that's all. You know that; we watch out for each other right?" Sighing, Lorrah answered, "Yeah I know that Clo. I'm going to bed."

University Row ~ Late Sunday Evening

Wyatt sat quietly at the piano breathing slowly and allowing his thoughts to clear. Tentatively, he began to play a piece that his mother had taught him when he was younger. He had never been any good at it then nor did he want to be but he finally mastered it. For her. Julia had smiled with delight when he played it the first time.

"What the hell are you playing Wy?" Jett had come in and flopped down on the sofa. Closing his eyes, he hadn't wanted to let the moment go, he replied flatly, "It's Chopin."

"Whatever, man. I'm going to go out and hit the clubs, scope out the babes. Want to come?" Jett walked over to Wyatt and stood smiling at him. "What about Lorrah?" Wyatt questioned him.

"She went home. Anyway I can't get past second base before striking out with her," Jett complained. "Maybe you ought to take your time with her Jett; do you even care about the girl?" Wyatt was uncharacteristically annoyed at Jett's griping.

Hesitant, Jett regarded him for a long time before answering carefully, "Sure I care about her. Why do you think I want to get in her pants?" Letting out an exasperated sigh Wyatt headed for his room. "We have class tomorrow, early. I'm going to bed. Try not to stay out too late."

"All right "Mom" I won't. Can I borrow the car keys?" Laughing Jett headed for the elevator knowing full well Wyatt was firing daggers at his back.

Monday Morning
Wyatt had been awake long before his alarm sounded. Swinging his legs over the side of his bed, he sat there for a moment, mentally ran through the list of things he needed for his classes and headed for the shower.
Dressing quickly, he headed for the kitchen where Jason and Jett were already seated. Wearing a rather satisfied look on his face, Jett greeted Wyatt, "You should have come with me last night Wyatt. There was definitely no shortage of women ripe for plucking off the vines."
Grabbing his plate of food, Wyatt slid into one of the chairs, "You know Jett sometimes I think you're all talk when it comes to your conquests." Jason, who had been more subdued than usual added, "Trust me, he isn't. I had to listen to one of them moaning all night. I swear I thought these walls were thicker."
Ignoring Jett's smug look of satisfaction, Wyatt turned to Jason, "So how was that restaurant last night?" Smiling slightly Jason answered, "It was good, interesting…very interesting." Intrigued, Jett remarked, "Yeah? Good food? Maybe I'll check it out later this week."

Glancing over, Jason answered, "You probably wouldn't like it Jett. Not enough action to suit you I'm afraid."
"Well I'm heading out; Jett are you ready? We've got Music Theory first thing this morning," Wyatt stood looking at the younger Mitchell brother. Rolling his eyes he grumbled, "Yeah, Professor Walker…that should be boring as hell."
Stuffing his guitar case with his schedule, manuscript notebook, picks, and wallet Wyatt slung it over his shoulder hastily. Stepping outside, he breathed deeply. It was bright; the air clean, crisp as he made his way to the car and his first class.

Main Campus ~ Duffey Hall
Duffey Hall didn't look like much from the outside but as Wyatt and Jett pushed through the heavy industrial doors they realized their perception was far from accurate. There were several large classrooms on either side of a main hall on both the first and second floor. Music mingled along the hallways along with voices; the place was alive with creativity and sound.
Entering the large classroom on the right they noticed a large group of students milling about. Chairs were piled in the corner, music stands scattered about. Posters hung on the walls high above while sheets of manuscript paper adorned the wall above an old fashioned spinet.
Leaning in close, Jett laughed and triumphantly exclaimed, "Check out the hottie with Professor Walker. Damn I knew I'd find some reason to keep me from dropping this class."
Glancing over Wyatt noticed the redhead Jett referred to. Thick hair piled on her head and wire framed glasses but the thing Wyatt noticed most was her curves. Allowing his eyes to wander over each peak and valley he looked up and saw her looking back. It wouldn't be the first time an older girl came onto him.
A slight smile played at the corners of his mouth as he held her gaze. She didn't look away but her expression was hard to interpret, almost hostile and not what he expected at all. Turning away, she spoke quietly to the woman next to her throwing a look toward both Jett and him.
The old woman standing next to her was who Wyatt assumed was Professor Walker. She was almost as Jason had described. Old, frumpy clothes, he was certain that if she were to speak her voice would mimic the grating sound of a rusty gate. He turned to mention as much to Jett when a warm, rich voice spoke from the podium.

"Ladies and gentlemen your attention please," Wyatt turned and saw the redhead speaking from the front of the room as silence gradually overtook the chattering of students. "I'm Professor Walker and this is Music Theory."

Looking straight at Wyatt she continued, "If you've come to my class thinking you'll get a free ride because you know all there is to know about music, this isn't the place for you."
Stunned, he watched her in silence as the older woman left the room. She was Professor Walker? The spinster music teacher?
"Music Theory…the study of mechanics of music and how it works. We'll be covering a broad spectrum of ideas, beliefs and notions on this topic. There are many elements to music as you know; harmony, rhythm, structure, dynamics, and texture just to name a few. It's intertwined with mathematics. Understand it, learn it, and use it."
The rest of the lecture was a blur as Wyatt couldn't shake his embarrassment. He had openly flirted with his professor. And was that hostility aimed at him over his perusal of her body or over his heritage?
At the end of class Wyatt turned quickly to Jett, "You go on ahead. I'll catch up to you in a sec. I want to check out that spinet." As Jett left the large music room, Wyatt headed for the professor's office.
Knocking lightly he heard that honey voice beckoning him to enter. "Professor Walker, I…about earlier…what went on…" Wyatt wasn't really sure how to approach his error in judgment.

"I'm not sure I know what you are referring to?" she stared at him, emotionless.
"I just thought…I didn't realize YOU were Professor Walker, that's all. I thought maybe you knew who I was and…" Before Wyatt could continue, Professor Walker erupted, "Know who you are? Are you special? More so than the other students in my class?"
Wyatt's mouth dropped. What the hell? "Yes, I know who you are Mr. Stanfield, you and your friend, and I don't care. You'll get no special treatment from me. My standards, my expectations are no different, do you understand me? I can fail you with a clear conscience believe me!"
Wyatt's temper flared, "Fine! And as far as failing your class, don't hold your breath! I probably forgot more than you can teach me!"
Turning in that narrow office, Wyatt's guitar case knocked into the folders on her counter spilling the contents onto the floor. Reaching to grab them, his binder fell open spilling its contents on top.
Blinded with rage Wyatt quickly gathered up the mess and righted her binders muttering a hasty apology as he glared at her once more and turned to leave. Professor Walker stood hands on hips watching him walk away.
They were all the same, the so called privileged few. If it hadn't been for the grants her department had received…it didn't matter. Stanfield or no, if he didn't do the work, he didn't pass the class.

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NEXT CHAPTER: Stage Chapter 24

Chapter 1 ~ Overture

2008-07-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

University Row ~ Late Summer

Spending the last remaining weeks of the summer moving into their rental at college, Wyatt and the Mitchell boys had finally found some time to just kick back. Life at the university would be arduous the first semester so the boys took full advantage of the brief respite before classes began. Having a prestigious department of fine and performing arts meant hard work and focus for the young men.

"Listen to this; Glades Pavilion is hosting the annual Battle of the Bands in November," Jason's enthusiasm drew their attention. "We can take that no problem and the first prize is an opportunity to perform at the Rock Festival as the headline band. We need to do this," he continued as he began to complete the registration.

"Who died and made you the promoter?" Jett lazily uttered as he lounged by the pool. "We already have first class tickets to the top." Jason had always been more ambitious than Jett and was diligently networking with various organizations since they arrived at the university.

Throwing him a warning look, Wyatt responded, "No, it sounds cool Jason. I think we should sign up. But nothing is certain; there's a lot of talent at this university."

"Come on Wy…with our genetics, who's going to be better than us?" Jett rose and dove into the pool gliding with ease through the aquamarine water, then turning easily, he floated as Wyatt watched in silence. "Jase, we should scope out the competition just in case," he spoke quietly, "Where we come from could work against us even if we are the best band out there."

Climbing out of the pool, Jett grinned at Wyatt as he headed for the house. "I've got a date with that redhead from the Pizza Palace; I need to get cleaned up." As he walked toward the door Jett called over his shoulder, "You worry too much Wyatt; lighten up dude. There's going to be plenty of competition but we'll blow them away and you know it."

Later that evening, restless, Wyatt stood on the deck outside his room. It was silent except for the distant sound of the ocean as it crashed against the bluffs. Closing his eyes, Wyatt inhaled deeply allowing the fresh salt air that wafted from the coast to fill his lungs. There was a storm heading toward the coast; you could smell it in the air, the night was charged with it.

Both Jason and Jett were out and he welcomed the peace and quiet. As he started back toward the bedroom he heard the chime of the front door bell. Sighing, he slowly made his way toward the elevator wondering who would be stopping by so late.

"Dad," Wyatt stood at the door and stared curiously at Cooper. "What are you doing here?" Cooper waited, his arm folded across his chest. "Are you going to ask me in Wyatt or make me stand out here?"

"Sorry, yeah…come on in," Wyatt stepped aside as his father walked in and surveyed the place. He wondered if he was always going to feel like a kid in the presence of his father.

Turning, Cooper regarded him thoughtfully. He had changed in the few weeks he had been gone and Cooper realized his son was a man now.

"Beth gave me strict orders to stay away while she was fixing the place up with you; now that it's done, I figured it was time for the grand tour." He glanced around the main floor, "Looks a lot bigger than the place I lived in when I was your age. She did good...real good."

Wyatt glared at his father, "It looks fancier than it really is. Beth got some pretty good deals on a lot of this stuff. And there are three of us here; the Mitchells helped out too." Wyatt's tone was defensive as Cooper stared back at him.

"Just remember why you're here Wyatt. You need to focus on your education, not just the extracurricular activities."

Walking toward the elevator, Cooper spoke over his shoulder, "I hear you have a pool table. I earned a lot of pocket money hustling pool in my college days. Maybe I can teach you a trick or two."

As they studied the array of multicolored balls on the black felt, Wyatt inhaled and asked his father, "Why are you here really dad? Aren't you supposed to be getting ready for the big tour?"

Cooper leaned over the table, his muscles flexed slightly as he positioned his pool cue toward his shot, his gaze trailed along the stick intently as he took his shot. "I need a favor Wyatt…I hesitate to bring it up. It's a lot to ask but I need you to keep an eye out for Beth and Rainie."

Wyatt carefully walked around the table, "Isn't that what you hired Ryan for? Why haven't you fired him yet anyway?" Cooper's jaw tightened considerably, "I said it was a lot to ask Wyatt with you being in school but Ryan is good at what he does and Beth likes working with him. I don't have time to find someone else that I can trust."

"You shouldn't trust Ryan, Dad," Wyatt's voice was hard, "I don't like him, you know that."

Cooper held Wyatt's gaze as he answered flatly, "Yeah, I know that. He has impeccable references; he's never done anything unethical. I just have…a feeling…there's something there…or maybe I'm reading it all wrong."

Cooper turned back to the table and stared blankly at it. "You don't trust Beth?" Wyatt quietly posed the question. His voice was eerily quiet as Coop responded, "I do trust her…but things happen…I'm going to be gone a long time Wyatt and it isn't like Beth can drop everything and travel with a toddler. It's hard on a child to be dragged around like that as much as it would delight me."

"Look if you don't want to do it I understand. You have enough on your plate. But I'm not asking you to spy, just keep an eye out once in awhile. That's all. And let me know if I need to be concerned about anything."

Wyatt carefully chose his words, "I never thought I would be the one saying this Dad, but Beth loves you, it's obvious. She isn't interested in Ryan. But if you want me to keep an eye out, I will, especially if it eases your mind."

Cooper was visibly relieved as he smiled at his son. "Thanks Wy. Look I should get going." Wyatt embraced his father, "Just go rock the world Dad and don't worry about anything. You can count on me."

Wyatt watched from the kitchen window as his father drove away on his bike. It still felt oddly out of character for his dad to seem unsure of a woman but then Wyatt thought he knew enough about Ryan to believe that fear was warranted. Ethics aside, things you don't expect can happen between the most unlikely people.

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NEXT CHAPTER: South Beach Chapter 30