No More Time-outs

Chapter One

School had just let out for the day.  Belle Black was on her way to her locker when she spotted Shawn Brady and Chloe Lane in the music room.  Shawn was tinkering on the piano, while Chloe did some kind of vocal exercise.  Belle was about to join them when she heard both of them breaking into hysterical laughter about something Belle couldn’t quite make out.  She saw Chloe slide onto the seat next to Shawn.  They were obviously having a good time.  Not wanting to be the third wheel, Belle turned and resumed her walk to the locker, suddenly plagued by a sharp, nagging pain in her stomach, a pain that puzzled her.
	
Later that day, Shawn was at the Brady Pub, munching on a snack when Belle walked in, looking decidedly less perky than usual.

Looking up, Shawn yelled, “Hey, Belle!  Ready for another one of our little study sessions?”
	
“Oh…you mean the you-doze-off-while-I-talk-to-myself session?  Sure,” Belle said distractedly.
	
“I gotta go get my history book.  Wait here a sec,” Shawn said as he bounded up the stairs to his room.

Ignoring his request, Belle followed him up the stairs, commenting, “You mean FIND your book, right?”  Entering the room, she observed, “Wow, I haven’t been up here in ages.  Yep, still looks like the aftermath of a natural disaster.”
	
“Yeah well, it missed you too, Belle,” Shawn said, scratching his head, obviously having no clue where his book could be.
	
Belle walked cautiously over to his barely-visible desk.  Crossing her arms and leaning against the desk, she sighed, not sure how to ask the question that had been nagging at her since school let out.  Looking around, she said, “You ever heard the concept of a vacuum cleaner?  Oh, oh and how about those neat little inventions called a hanger and dresser drawers?  They work better if you use ‘em.”  Belle decided small talk was the way to go while she figured out a way to approach the subject.
	
“Very funny, Belle,” Shawn said, still on the prowl for his book.
	
Belle sighed once again.  Sitting down on his messily-made bed, she absentmindedly began folding one of his shirts.  It’s now or never, she thought.  “So…Piano Man.  I saw you and Chloe in the music room today.”
	
Shawn looked up, “So, it’s Piano Man now, is it?  What happened to Tough Boy?”
	
Glad for the reprieve, Belle answered, “Well, I have to keep up-to-date, you know.  I realize you’re not a boy anymore.”  A cocky smile appeared on Shawn’s lips but disappeared quickly as Belle continued.  “Although, you’re not exactly a MAN yet, either.  You’re in that awkward male phase where you’re just clueless and…and horny.”
	
Shocked, Shawn chuckled, “I can’t believe you just said that!  Little Miss Perfect Girl using the word ‘horny’.”  With that, Shawn broke down in uncontrollable laughter.
	
Enraged, Belle shot up from the bed, feeling a warm blush creep up her neck and face, a sign of both anger and embarrassment.  “Shawn Brady, you are just so…so…I don’t even know what!”  She said as she turned on her heels to leave.
	
“Wait, Belle, wait!  Time out!  I was just kidding with you.  Come on.  Okay, how about we make up a new nickname for you,” he said as he looked into the distance thoughtfully.
	
“How about you just call me Belle?”  She muttered.
	
Ignoring her, Shawn exclaimed, “I got it!  How about Goldilocks!”
	
“You’re comparing me to a whiny, bratty, greedy little porridge thief?” fumed Belle.
	
“Don’t forget picky eater,” he said jokingly.  Then, sensing that Belle wasn’t getting the joke, Shawn leapt over some clutter on the floor, laid his hands on her shoulders and repeated what Belle had just said to him a moment ago, “Have YOU heard the concept of ‘just a joke’?”  Seeing that she was unconvinced and hurt, Shawn sighed and added, “I’m really sorry, Belle.  Forgive me?”
	
Leering at Shawn, Belle shot back, “Insensitive jerk!”  She was turning to leave when Shawn reached out to grab her arm.
	
“Oh no, you’re not going anywhere.  For ONCE, we’re going to finish what we start.”
	
“And how do you plan on keeping me here?” countered Belle.
	
“Simple.”  Shawn closed the door and stood in front of it.
	
“Please,” said Belle.  “You know very well I can body slam your butt to the floor.”
	
“Whatever.  Once…when we were like eight…and I wasn’t even looking.  I hardly think that counts.  So, let’s just finish our little fight, shall we?”
	
“Never mind that.  What’s up with you and Chloe?  I see you guys are getting pretty chummy lately.  Today, for example…” Belle blurted out, not exactly how she wanted to broach the subject, but there was no need to beat around the bush since Shawn wouldn’t be able to figure out cryptic hints anyway.
	
“Oh, that.  We were just hanging out, goofing around.  We both do enjoy the same music, remember?”  Suddenly, it hit him.  He looked up, a playful smile dancing on his lips.  “Why? You jealous?”
	
“Me, jealous?  Over you?  Yeah, that’ll be the day.  Just curious is all,” she half-lied, trying to hide that annoying blush once again.  Attempting to make a hasty exit before she lost her cool, she said, "Look, Shawn, my turn to call time-out…I think we should call it a day.  Doesn’t look like you’ll be finding that book anytime soon.”
	
Sensing her discomfort and too afraid to probe his own unexplored feelings, Shawn allowed the subject to drop…for now.  “Yeah, okay.  You’re probably right.”
	
Starting for the door, Belle suddenly turned around.  “Well, there is one more thing,” she said.
	
“What?”
	
“What IS that thing on your ceiling?”  Belle pointed to a spot above them.
	
Shawn’s eyes followed her finger.  “What thing?  What are you talking a…?”  Suddenly, Shawn felt the full weight of Belle crashing into him.  He was able to catch her in time, but her momentum propelled them both to the floor.
	
A moment later, Belle lifted herself up on her arms, looking somewhat crazed, her hair a tousled mess.  Crouching over Shawn, she wore a self-satisfied look on her face.  “Some things never change, Brady.  I still got it.  I can still take you down.”
	
“Hey, you cheated.  I wasn’t even ready…”
	
“Now, now, Tough Boy.  It doesn’t matter HOW I did it.  The point is you’re flat on your back on the floor and I put you there.”
	
Shawn looked up at Belle amusingly.  She looked amazingly cute with her messed-up hair and the look of victory and mischief in her baby-blue eyes.  At that moment, he was reminded of their childhood days, playing, wrestling, and just simply having a good time.  He wondered why things had to change as people grew up, why things had to get so…complex.
	
“What are you looking at, Tough Boy?”
	
“Nothin’.  Just at someone who’s about to GET TICKLED!”  With that, he began tickling her mercilessly.  Belle tried to escape his grasp but was too overcome by laughter to stand up.  She collapsed to the floor helplessly, trying unsuccessfully to squirm away.  Shawn crouched over her and continued his “tickle torture”.
	
“Give up, Belle?  Or are you hungry for more?”
	
“Okay, stop!  I give up!  You win!  Stop!”  Belle screamed between laughs.
	
Satisfied by his victory, Shawn finally relented.  Both remained where they were, breathing hard and recovering from the exhausting tickle-fest.  Suddenly, realizing their close proximity, their eyes locked.  Shawn’s eyes burned holes into Belle’s.  All signs of playfulness evaporated.  At that moment, Shawn understood all too well why they couldn’t ever go back to those carefree childhood days.  They weren’t kids anymore.  It was as simple as that.  And yet, at the same time, as painfully complicated.
	
He found himself leaning closer to the face he had adored all his life, allowing himself to give into the feelings he had buried for a long time.  The moment of truth was upon them and there was no turning back.
	
“Shawn…” Belle began, her heart thundering in her ears.
	
Shawn put a finger to her lips, whispering, “No more time-outs, Belle.”
	
“But you’re crushing my foot,” Belle said.
	
“Oh, man.  I’m so sorry, Belle.”
	
Belle placed her hands on his face, and with a playful look in her eyes, whispered in his ear, “Kidding, Brady.”
	
“Very funny.”  Undeterred, Shawn smiled, refusing to let the moment pass.  They were so close now that there was no question as to what would happen next.
	
Then, it happened.  A knock at the door.  “Shawn?  You in there?”  Bo yelled from the other side of the door.
	
Shawn and Belle both jumped quickly to their feet, flustered.  Great timing, Dad, thought a disappointed Shawn.  “Yeah, I’m here, Dad!”  Shawn yelled back.
	
Bo opened the door, and poked his head through.  “Oh, hi Belle.  Sorry to interrupt you guys.  Just wanted to remind you, Son, to get ready for the dinner date with your mom and me.”
	
“Yeah, I’ll be there.  Thanks.”  Shawn said, trying to smile.
	
Bo nodded toward Belle.  “Belle.”
	
“Mr. Brady.”  Belle smiled back as Bo left.
	
Now that the moment had passed, Shawn and Belle stood in awkward silence, both lost in their own thoughts and more confused than ever by what almost transpired between them.  Belle was the first to break the silence, though she refused to meet his gaze.  “I’d better be heading home.”
	
“Okay, yeah.  Oh, I hope I answered your question.”
	
“Yeah, I guess.  I hope we finished discussing…you know…everything we needed to discuss,” Belle replied.
	
Shawn took a step toward her, gently lifting her face with his hand and seeing that her eyes registered anxiety, uncertainty and confusion all at once.  He whispered, “Not everything.”
	
Not sure how to answer that, Belle took a step back.  “Uh, I have to get going.  I’ll see you later, Shawn.”  The air hung heavy with things left unsaid as Belle lingered at the door before finally turning the knob to let herself out.
	
“Bye, Belle,” Shawn said to the closed door, knowing that they would both have a restless night ahead of them.

Chapter 2

The alarm clock seemed utterly unnecessary the next morning.  Shawn slept fitfully the night before, if at all, his thoughts constantly replaying the events of the day before.  Stumbling to the bathroom, he glimpsed himself in the mirror, the lack of sleep evident in the bags under his eyes.
	
Meanwhile, Belle had fared no better.  She had been standing in front of the mirror for over an hour now, trying to hide all evidence of her restless night.  She then hurried down the stairs, racing past her parents and saying only, “Hi, Mom and Dad!  Bye, Mom and Dad!”  Grabbing a breakfast pastry, she was out the door before they could reply.  John and Marlena looked at each other, puzzled.
	
At school, Shawn stood at his locker, finally finding the ever-elusive history book.  Closing the locker, he turned around in time to see Belle walking by.
	
“Hey, Isabella!”
	
“Oh, hey Shawn.”  Belle said brightly as she stopped in front of him.
	Shawn searched Belle’s eyes anxiously.  All she said, though, was, “That history test is going to be a killer.”  She then proceeded to ramble on and on about the prospect of failing the exam.
	
“Yeah,” Shawn replied absentmindedly.  For a while, they stood in awkward silence.
	
“Well, uh, I have to go do some last minute cramming,” Belle finally said, breaking the silence.  “See ya.”
	
Hiding his disappointment and bewilderment, Shawn answered, “Okay, yeah.  Bye, Belle.”  With that, both headed to class.
	
Two classes later, Shawn sat at his desk, taking the history test, or trying to at least.  He couldn’t concentrate, all the while daydreaming or staring up at Belle, who seemed fully focused on her exam.  Get a grip, Brady, he thought.  Just as he was about to bring his attention back to the exam, the end-of-class bell rang with Shawn realizing he had only his name and about a third of the questions answered.  Sighing, he stood and placed the exam on the teacher’s desk.
	
An hour later, Belle sat at her usual table, eating her lunch while waiting for some friends to join her.  Suddenly, Shawn plopped down in front of her, causing her to stiffen up with uneasiness.
	
“Hey Shawn!  What’s up?”
	
“Nothing.  And YOU?”  Shawn asked pointedly, once again searching her eyes.
	
Nervous, Belle avoided his eyes and started rambling about her classes, cheerleading practice, cafeteria food…
	
Shawn suddenly slammed his palm on the table, startling Belle and some students nearby.  “Damn it, Belle!  Stop it!  Just stop it!”  Sensing others’ stares, Shawn stood, took Belle’s hand and led her to the only place in the school that could afford them some privacy - the broom closet.
	
“What do you think you’re doing, Shawn?”
	
“We need to talk.”
	
Once inside, Belle stood crossing her arms.  “So, talk.”
	
Taking a moment to search for the right words, Shawn began, “I don’t know about you, but I can’t stop thinking about what almost happened yesterday.  Hell, I didn’t even get a wink of sleep, and I think I just made a zero on my test.  And I seem to be the only one riled up about this.  Now, am I alone on this one?  Did I imagine yesterday?  You tell me, Belle.”
	
After a long pause, Belle sighed,  “No, you didn’t imagine it.  I thought a lot about it too.  I tossed and turned all night, but I think I’ve finally come up with a solution.”  She paused again.  “I think it would be best if we both just forget about it and just pretend it didn’t happen.  I think it would be best for all involved.”
	
Shawn felt the wind knocked out of him and the ache of a hundred arrows piercing his heart.  “All involved?”  He asked, confused.
	
“You know, like Mimi.  She’d be heartbroken.  I’m just trying to think of others…”
	
Perplexed and frustrated by her sudden maturity, Shawn asked, “What about US, Belle?  What about OUR feelings?”
	
“I’m sorry, Shawn…” Belle felt a painful lump rise in her throat and the threat of an onslaught of tears, but was determined to keep her emotions in check.
	
“So that’s it, huh?  I don’t get a say in it?  We’re just gonna drop it, just like that.  Not another word on the subject.”
	
“It would never work, Shawn!”  Belle whispered loudly.  “You know how we are.  We can’t get through a conversation without fighting.  Look!  We’re fighting right now!”
	
“It’s called taking a chance, Belle.  A leap of faith.  Whatever you wanna call it.”  You don’t get the rewards without taking a risk.  It’s like…like jumping out of a plane.  Sure, you’re scared at first.  You’re not sure what will happen, how things will turn out.  Then, BAM!  The chute opens and suddenly, you’re on top of the world.  You feel alive, exhilarated, floating on air.  It’s like, like exquisite bliss coming from paralyzing fear and uncertainty.”
	
Surprised at his poetic plea and seeing an opportunity to ease the suffocating tension, Belle quipped, “Since when did Shawn Brady become such an expert at literary devices?  I thought you said that that English Lit test the other day kicked your butt.”
	
“Don’t change the subject, Belle.  I mean, are you even hearing me?”
	
“Yes, I hear you.”  Belle almost shouted, a hint of anger and frustration in her tone.  “It’s just all very…complicated.”
	
“WHAT is so complicated?  What are you so afraid of?  Tell me, Belle.”  Shawn implored, the ache in his chest now excruciating as tears began to sting his eyes.  He wiped at his face and turned to hide his hurt.
	Belle didn’t have the heart to tell him that he didn’t fit into her plans in that way, that he didn’t fit the description of her dream guy.  
	
Getting no answer from Belle, Shawn suddenly realized the irony of their situation.   Chuckling, he muttered, “The one time I wear my heart on my sleeve and look what happens…”
	
After a long while, Belle stepped toward him, placing a hand on his arm.  “Shawn, you know how important you are to me.  And whether you realize it or not, I care for you…a lot.  I don’t want to lose the best friend I’ll ever have.  Please understand.  It would just be so…”
	
“I know, I know.  Complicated.  Well, don’t worry, Belle.  I wouldn’t want to COMPLICATE your perfect little life.”  With that, Shawn ripped the door open and tore out of the little room.
	
Alone, Belle slid down to the floor, no longer able to suppress the lump in her throat, nor contain the torrential tears that now flowed fast and furious down her face.  She was upset at herself for allowing her stubbornness and her idea of the so-called ideal guy dictate her heart.  The pain of loss within her grew more and more pronounced with each passing moment.  She felt so confused, the jumble of emotions inside her so new and different.
	
Nevertheless, this was for the best, she told herself.  Things will blow over.  They would forget about this whole episode in time.  Who knows, years from now they might even look back and have a good laugh about it, though she seriously doubted that happening.  Even she knew she was lying to herself.

Chapter 3

	Belle lay on her bed, looking like death warmed over.  She felt physically and emotionally drained.  To say she had had a bad day was the understatement of the century.  She had spent the rest of that school day just going through the motions, traveling from one class to the next in a stone-faced trance.  She had held conversations with friends to a minimum because she simply didn’t have the energy, most of which was spent trying to avoid crossing paths with Shawn.
	
Her door creaked open, letting in light from the hallway.  Belle turned her head toward the sound and saw her mom enter the room, closing the door behind her and shrouding the room in darkness once again.
	
“Honey?  Are you all right?”  Marlena said as she put a hand on Belle’s forehead.  Getting no response, she continued, “Are you feeling ill?  You don’t have a fever.”
	
“No, it’s nothing like that, Mom.  If it’s okay, I’d rather not talk about it right now.”
	Concern creased Marlena’s brows.  “Are you sure, hon’?”  She persisted.
	
“Yeah,” was Belle’s short response.
	
“Well, when you’re ready, please, please, come to me, Belle.  You know you can talk to me about anything.”
	
“I know.  Thanks, Mom.”
	
Marlena continued to look intently at Belle for a long time, trying to discern any telltale signs as to what was troubling her daughter.  Finding nothing, she finally sighed and bent down to kiss Belle’s forehead.  Glancing at her one last time, Marlena got up and quietly left the room.
	
John was reading downstairs in the living room when Marlena plopped onto a chair across from him.  “How’s IzzyB doing?”  He asked, looking up from his book.
	
“Well, she’s not physically ill, but something’s obviously troubling her.”
	
“Any theories, Doc?  ‘Cause my guess would be that it’s about a boy.”
	
“That is definitely a possibility.”
	
“Yep, teen angst rears its ugly head.  Glad I was never one.”
	
Smiling at John’s remark, Marlena replied, “Anyway, we won’t know anything for sure until she’s ready to talk.”
	
“Well, whoever it is, I’m sure he’s not worth the turmoil he’s putting my baby girl through.”
	
Meanwhile, Shawn had managed to unlock Bo’s bike, carefully taking it out of its storage.  After the day he had had, he felt he deserved a ride, even if his dad didn’t know about it.  He needed the wind in his face; he needed to clear his head.  He had spent that day stalking around like a ticking time bomb, ready to explode at the slightest provocation.  Phillip had been the lucky recipient of that wrath when he came up to Shawn’s locker, saying, “How’s it goin’, studly?  SO…?”
	
“What are you talking about?”  Shawn asked, already annoyed.
	
“I saw you and Belle going into that broom closet.  So, what happened?  Anything?”
	
“Shut up, Phil.  It’s none of your business.”
	
“I figured as much.  Belle’s all talk, no action,” Phillip snickered.
	And that did it.  Shawn grabbed Phillip by the front of his shirt and shoved him up against the lockers.  “Don’t you EVER talk about Belle that way again!  Understand?!”  Shawn spat, his eyes blazing deliriously.
	
“Okay, yeah.  I was just kidding.  Take it easy, man.  Don’t blame me for your frustrations.”
	
Shawn roughly let go of him and stalked off.
	
Shaking off his anger at Phillip, Shawn now concentrated on putting on the helmet.  He was about to leave it behind but finally thought better of it.
	
Out on the road now, Shawn was able to regain some measure of calm and composure, but his thoughts refused to stray too far from Belle.  What’s wrong with me, he thought.  He wondered why he was getting all riled up about a girl who used to wear her hair in pigtails and tagged along with him all over God’s green earth when they were little. The same girl who couldn’t take a joke if her life depended on it, who threw a tantrum if he made the slightest comment about her hair.  This was the same girl who picked a fight with him if he breathed too loudly or if the sun came up too early.  The girl drove him nuts, he thought, scolding himself.  The more lost he got in his thoughts, the faster he rode, never realizing that he had run a red light.
	
Before he knew it, he felt the tremendous impact of collision.  The world flew by at a dizzying speed as he flew awkwardly into the night sky, an endless arrangement of darkness and light.  He landed just as suddenly, feeling the searing pain of skin and flesh scraping against asphalt.  He couldn’t feel his legs and wondered if they were still attached.  His mouth tasted salty, and something warm trickled over his right eye.  He looked up to see a flurry of blinding light.  And then the world went black.

Chapter 4

	Belle shot up from her bed.  “Shawn,” she whispered.  For some unknown reason, she sensed that something was seriously wrong.  Grabbing the phone, she quickly dialed the Bradys’ number.  With each passing ring, her heart thundered louder and louder in her ears.  “Come on, pick up, pick up.”  Finally, on the fifth ring, she heard someone pick up the receiver.
	
“Hello?” greeted an out-of-breath Bo.
	
“Mr. Brady?  This is Belle.  Is Shawn there?”
	
“No…no, he’s not here, Belle.  I thought he’d be with you at the Pub.”
	
“He’s not with me.”
	
“Well, he may be out helping with the dance committee thing then.  I can tell him you called when he gets back.”
	
Belle thought for a moment.  She couldn’t shake her mysterious premonition.  Taking a stab in the dark, she asked, “Um, Mr. Brady, could you check if your motorcycle’s still there?  Don’t ask why.  I just have this really strange feeling.”
	
There was a long pause at the other end before Bo spoke again, “Hold on just a sec, Belle.  Let me go check.”  Half a minute later, Belle heard Bo cursing in the background.  Though muffled, she could distinctly hear him say, “Damn it!  I can’t believe he took it again without permission.”
	
Picking up the receiver, he said, “Listen, Belle.  I have to make some calls.  I’ll call you back in a few minutes.  Let’s just hope he didn’t get himself into some kind of trouble with the law again.”
	
“Yeah, okay, but…” Before she could finish, the line went dead.
	
Five minutes later, the phone rang with Belle grabbing it at mid-ring.  “Hello?”
	
“Hi, Belle!”
	
“Oh, hey…um…uh…Mimi.”
	
“Whoa, what’s with the sudden memory loss.”
	
“Sorry, I’m just out of it.”
	
“Yeah, I understand.  I saw you take a nasty spill at cheerleading practice today.  Just wanted to see if you’re all right.”
	
“Well, my ankle still hurts like the dickens, but otherwise I’m okay.  Thanks for caring.”
	
“What did you say?  It hurts like the WHAT?”
	
“The…dickens.”
	
“Oh, I thought you said something else.  Who talks like that anyway?”
	
Belle rolled her eyes.  “Whatever, Mimi.”
	
“Oh my gosh, guess what?  Ghoul Girl just signed up to be on the dance committee.  Why the sudden school spirit, I wonder.”
	
Belle rolled her eyes once again.  She couldn’t understand Mimi.  One minute, she was a thoughtful young woman lamenting her family’s financial difficulties and lecturing Belle on some perceived hypocrisy on Belle’s part; and the next, she was a thoughtless bully making fun of others for no apparent reason.  “Shawn and I encouraged her to, you know, expand her horizons.  She’ll be helping Shawn with the music.”
	
“Oh, great.  Now she’s gonna contaminate the music.”
	
“Mimi,” sighed an exasperated Belle, “I’m really not in the mood.”
	
“Speaking of moods,” Mimi plowed on, “what’s with Shawn today?  Phillip told me that he’d cracked some harmless joke about you, and Shawn just went berserk.  He just lost it and just about killed Phil.”
	
“Well, Phillip probably deserved it,” Belle said, acutely worried now that she had learned about Shawn’s erratic state of mind when he left school, and also knowing all too well about the famous Brady temper.
	
“You’re so lucky, Belle.  You get to have Shawn defend your honor.  Oh, by the way, what’s this I hear about you, Shawn and a broom closet?” Mimi asked, not even bothering to hide the jealousy in her tone.
	
“Total gossip,” Belle lied, not wanting to have this conversation, especially NOT with Mimi.  “Listen, Meems.  I just remember I have to go…scrub the bathtub.  I’ll call ya later, okay?  Okay, bye.”
	
“Since when --” Mimi began, but Belle had already hung up.  Belle felt bad for ending their conversation so abruptly, but she did not have the energy to field Mimi’s questions right now.  She plopped onto the bed, anxiously awaiting Bo’s call.  Exhausted, she dozed off, only to be awakened by a series of loud raps on the door.  Startled, she fell off the bed.  Marlena stepped in the room, her face tinged with worry.  “Belle, honey, we’re going to the hospital.  Shawn’s been in an accident.”
	
Fear and shock seized Belle’s heart as she labored to breathe.  She looked at the clock; it had been almost an hour since she’d talked to Bo.
	
Ten minutes later, the Blacks arrived at the hospital, just in time to see the stretcher being wheeled in by two paramedics, who were followed closely by Bo and Hope.  Calamity soon ensued as doctors and nurses rushed to the stretcher, forming a human shield around Shawn.  Belle tried to get to him but was unable to squeeze through the huddle of medical personnel.  They soon disappeared through the Emergency Room doors, as Belle and the others looked on helplessly. 

Chapter 5

[***Please Note:  I am not that familiar with medical conditions or procedures.  Please excuse any inaccuracies and/or oversimplifications.]

Shawn’s loved ones were all gathered in the hospital waiting room.  Bo and Hope sat together in silence, looking very tired and weary.  John and Marlena paced anxiously nearby, stretching their legs, and periodically trying to comfort their friends.  Belle sat alone in a far corner of the room, lost in her own pain as she offered quiet prayers.  The hospital was remarkably quiet, save for the occasional, rhythmic footsteps of passerbys.  The night stretched on as Belle fell in and out of sleep.

Finally, a set of footsteps could be heard striding purposefully toward them.  Everyone jumped up quickly as Dr. Lexie Carver approached.

“How’s he?”  Bo spoke first as everyone looked anxiously at Lexie.

“Shawn’s stable now.  Some good news and some bad news.  The good news…besides some cuts and bruises, he has a minor concussion but otherwise no other major damage to the head.  He’s very lucky that he wore that helmet.  The bad news…there is some worrisome nerve damage to his legs.”  Seeing everyone’s face drop, Lexie quickly continued, “Hopefully, he’ll respond to treatment.  If that helps, he can begin extensive, rigorous physical therapy to regain motor abilities in his legs.”

“Can we see him?”  Hope asked.

“Well, he’s asleep right now…”

While they talked, Belle snuck off toward Shawn’s room.  She entered quietly, carefully closing the door behind her.  Walking over to the bed, she looked him over, not noticing anything out of the ordinary except for the scratches and bruises on his face and the heavy bandage wrapped snugly around his head.  She didn’t dare investigate further, fearing the worst.  She felt a small pang of guilt.  Looking at his still figure, Belle remembered the last time she watched as Shawn’s life hung in the balance in this very hospital, how she’d feared that he’d never walk again.  “You must really like this place, Shawn.  You’re here more than anybody I know.”  Her feeble attempt at a joke met with eerie silence and Shawn’s rhythmic breathing.

She gently reached over to brush a lock of dark hair from his forehead.  Then, with trembling fingers, she gingerly traced a scratch that marked his handsome face, letting her fingers linger on a cut on his lips.  Placing both her hands over one of his, she thought for a second that she felt his hand twitch under hers, but it didn’t happen again.  Not knowing what to say, she simply whispered, “Sweet dreams, Tough Boy.  See you in the morning.”

Belle slept in the next morning, too exhausted from her late night at the hospital to go to school.  When she awoke, it was one o’clock in the afternoon.  She quickly jumped out of bed, showered, and headed for the hospital, and Shawn.

By the time she arrived, a small group of family members had already gathered in his room, Shawn evidently conscious now.  She waited patiently outside, feeling strangely nervous.  Fifteen minutes passed before the small gathering thinned out and dispersed.  Walking toward the door, Belle bumped into Bo.  Smiling, she asked, “Shawn up for another visitor?”

“I’m sure you’ll be a welcomed sight, as always,” Bo replied, smiling through tired eyes.

“Thanks, Mr. Brady,” she said, turning toward the door.

“Oh, by the way, Belle.  I don’t know how you knew he was in trouble, but Hope and I… we are eternally grateful to you for saving our son.  It could have been much worse.  I don’t know what I’d do if….  We are forever indebted to you.”

Belle didn’t know how to reply to such a heart-felt admission, so she only nodded and said, “I’m just glad he’s okay.”

“The recovery’s gonna be hell though,” Bo continued, looking at the floor.  Chuckling, he added, “That temper of his sure gets him into a lot of trouble, just like his old man’s.”  Looking at Belle again, he said, “Well, enough of my rambling.  I’m sure Shawn can’t wait to see you.”

Nodding, Belle turned the doorknob.  Upon entering, she saw Hope leaning over Shawn, stroking his hair.  Belle noticed that his eyes were closed and felt a little disappointed that he might be asleep.  Hope greeted her with a smile.  “Hi, Belle.”  Shawn’s eyes fluttered open and looked in Belle’s direction.  Noticing that Shawn and Belle’s attentions were now solely focused on each other, Hope quietly excused herself from the room.

“Belle,” Shawn said weakly, “you’re here.”  His eyes never left her as she approached the bed.

“Of course.  Where else would I be?”

“I don’t know,” Shawn said evenly, looking away.  “A hair appointment?”

Belle couldn’t tell if he was joking or being serious, but the words stung nevertheless.  “How’re you feeling?  I mean, I know that’s a stupid question…” Belle stuttered.

Actually, I feel like I’ve been run over by a truck, “ Shawn chuckled, looking at her again.  “Other than that, just peachy.  How’s your ankle?”

“My ankle?”  Belle asked, confused.

“You know, cheerleading practice yesterday.”

Touched by his concern over such a trivial injury compared to his, Belle replied, “Oh, it’s fine, thanks.  So, I heard about your legs being….”

Shawn turned his head away and muttered, “I don’t need your pity, Belle.”

“I was just gonna say that with hard work, you’ll be back on your feet again in no time.”

“Don’t baby me either.”

“Look, Shawn,” Belle demanded, getting angry.  “This is me you’re talking to, remember?  So why don’t you just put down that armor and drop the macho act.”

Shawn disappeared into himself again.  He didn’t answer, just continued staring at the far wall.

“Maybe I should let you get some rest.  I’ll see you later, Shawn,” Belle sighed as she quickly left.

Shawn looked after her longingly, cursing himself for being so cold and distant, for not finding the words and the courage to tell her that he desperately needed her.

Once outside, a hurt and angry Belle decided it would be best for the both of them if she just stayed away for a while.  She reasoned that his recovery would go more smoothly, more peacefully, and more successfully if she left him alone.  Her presence would just inspire heartache and flared tempers….

Chapter 6

Three days after Shawn’s accident, Belle sat in her American history class, half-listening to the teacher’s lecture.  She heard the door open and someone walking to the front, attracting everybody’s attention except hers; she didn’t bother to look up.

“Everyone,” announced Mr. Mackey.  “We have a new student.  This is Jonathan Laureles from London, England.  I hope you all will do your best to make him feel welcomed.”

A new student at the end of the year?, thought Belle.  Looking up, she found herself intrigued by what she saw.  Tall, dark and handsome, Jonathan had an air of sophistication and worldliness about him.  His clothing, mannerisms, and the way he carried himself conveyed as much.  He projected a classiness and maturity beyond his years.  The girls sat mesmerized as they watched him take a seat behind Belle.  The guys sneered, obviously envious and feeling threatened by the newcomer.

It wasn’t long before the dismissal bell rang, signaling the end of class.  Turning to the new student, Belle introduced herself.  “Hi, I’m Belle Black.  It’s nice to meet you Jonathan,” she said brightly, extending her hand.

Jonathan took her hand and leaned down to kiss it.  “Believe me, the pleasure’s all mine.  I hope the rest of the welcoming committee is as beautiful as you,” he said in an English accent.

Belle blushed, noting that his dark, wavy hair was accentuated by a dazzling smile and beautiful green eyes.  Though certainly striking, his eyes seemed oddly cold, lacking the warm, soulful quality seen in Shawn’s.  “Well, I have to be going.  Maybe I’ll see you around.”

“I will be looking forward to it.”

This guy’s too good to be true, Belle thought as she walked away.

Later that day, Belle sat at DotCom, trying to do some homework, when she noticed someone standing over her.

“So, we meet again, Isabella Black,” Jonathan said, seeming to appear from nowhere.  “And so soon.  It must be fate.”

“Oh, hey, um…Jonathan,” Belle smiled, looking up at him.  “So, what brings you to DotCom?”

“Just checking out the trendy hangout I keep hearing so much about.”  Looking around, he commented, “Interesting place, this DotCom.  So, what’s a beautiful girl like you doing here all by herself?”

“Actually, I’m waiting for some friends and catching up on some studying in the mean time.”

“What are you studying?”

Belle held up her book.

“Ah, Francais.  Cela fait comdien d’annees que vous avez appris le Francais [How long have you been studying French]?”

“Deux ans [two years],” Belle replied as both proceeded to banter briefly in French.

“Impressive,” Jonathan complimented.

“Thanks,” Belle said.  “So, do you speak any other languages?”

“Oh, Spanish and Italian.  You have to when your parents travel so much.”

“So, how did you end up in good ol’ Salem?”

“My parents have a project here.  But I practically live on my own.  They travel all the time for work, never really home,” Jonathan shrugged.  “You should know all about that, considering who your father is.”

“You know who my dad is?”

“Well, John Black is something of a legend - a brilliant, very well-known businessman.  I guess you could call him my hero.”  Jonathan paused thoughtfully before adding, “I would love to meet him.”

Smiling, Belle said, “I think I could arrange that.  It’s not everyday a stranger calls my dad his hero.”

Chapter 7

It had only been about a couple of weeks since they met, but Belle found herself getting along famously with Jonathan. She rather enjoyed his company.  His tales of adventure and globetrotting with his parents mesmerized her.  She found his maturity and European-flavored charm a refreshing change from the boys she was accustomed to at school.  They hung out often, with Belle showing Jonathan the sights and attractions that Salem had to offer.  Mostly, though, Jonathan did most of the talking while Belle listened wide-eyed and amazed at his storytelling and seemingly endless knowledge about anything and everything.  Best of all, thought Belle, no stupid comments about her hair.  

Jonathan became so adamant about meeting her father that Belle finally obliged one day, inviting him over to the penthouse to hang out.  Catching her dad as he was coming down the stairs, Belle grabbed his hand and dragged him over to the living room.

“Whoa there, IzzyB!  What’s the hurry?” John asked, amused.

“Dad, I have a friend who’s dying to meet you, if you can believe it.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence there, honey.”

“Dad, this is my friend Jonathan Laureles.  He’s new at school.  Jonathan, this is my dad, John Black, renowned business man."

Jonathan’s eyes lit up as he shook John’s hand enthusiastically.  “Mr. Black, I’ve heard so much about you.  It’s incredible to able to finally meet the man.”

“Call me John.  It’s nice to meet you, Jonathan.  Thanks for the compliments, but let’s not go overboard,” John said modestly, though clearly appreciating the attention.

“The pleasure’s all mine, sir,” Jonathan replied.  He then launched into his theories on business, economics, and the like.

“Ah, how quickly we are forgotten,” Belle sighed jokingly as she left to prepare herself a snack, leaving the two to their animated discussion.

An hour later, the two emerged from John’s study, laughing and talking like old friends.

“Isabella, your friend here has a real nose for business.  With a little tutelage from yours truly, he could take the world by storm.”

They exchanged good-byes as Belle walked Jonathan to the door.

“By the way, Belle, I’ve been hearing a lot about the…what do you call it…the Last Blast.  If you don’t have other plans, I would be honored to escort you to the dance.”

Without thinking, Belle accepted nonchalantly, “Sure.  That’d be great.”

“Very good then.  I’ll see you at school.  Oh, and thanks for today,” Jonathan smiled as he left.

****

The next day, Shawn sat in his hospital room, his belongings next to him on the bed, packed and ready to go.  It had been two weeks since his accident and he was being released today though the strenuous physical therapy awaited him in a couple of days.

He was staring at a picture in his hand.  Taken at his 16th birthday party after everybody had left, the photo was of Belle sitting on his lap.  Her head rested on his, her arms circled his neck while his were around her waist.  Both wore big, goofy grins on their faces.  They had offered mild protests to the pose, but Caroline and Grandpa Shawn had insisted.  Shawn couldn’t speak for Belle, but he had experienced sweaty palms and a racing heartbeat that he hoped nobody noticed.  At the moment, he hadn’t known what that was all about.

He was reminded of Phillip and Mimi’s visit a few days ago.  As he normally did when he had visitors, Shawn scanned the crowd for blond hair and blue eyes, only to be disappointed once again.

Mimi had given him a huge hug immediately upon entering.  “Oh my gosh, Shawn, how are you doing?  I’m so sorry I didn’t visit sooner.  Are you feeling okay?  Are you comfortable?  Here, let me fix your pillows,” she rambled.

“I’m doing fine, Mimi, thanks,” Shawn chuckled, trying to keep her from the pillows.

Meanwhile, Phillip had come in, putting up his hands in mock defense.  “Please don’t hurt me.  I come in peace.”

Shawn had smiled, but refused to apologize for roughing Phillip up that day at school, saying, “You still disrespected Belle, man.”

“I said I was sorry.  Hey, too bad you won’t be able to make it to the dance, huh?  Well, guess I won’t have competition for King.”

Mimi poked Phillip hard in the ribs with her elbow, though she remained uncharacteristically quiet for the rest of the exchange about the dance.  Phillip looked at her with a “what?” expression on his face.

Ignoring his friend’s penchant for sticking his foot in his mouth, Shawn asked, “So, has the great king-to-be chosen his queen yet?”

“Actually, I asked Belle but she turned me down flat.  Can you believe that?”

“No way,” Shawn said with mock disbelief, trying to mask his relief.  “So, now what?”

“So, life goes on.  The world’s not gonna end just because Belle Black rejects you.”

Shawn flashbacked to his brush with death following his and Belle’s heated exchange.  I don’t know about that, he thought.

“Anyway,” Phillip continued, “she’s going with this new guy at school, some teen business whiz named Jonathan Laureles.  The guy’s a real charmer, too.  Better than me.  Belle seems gaga over him.  Even took him to see her dad.”

Shawn had tried to hide his disappointment at Phillip’s news, just like he was trying to do now.  Just then, Bo came in, interrupting his thoughts.  Bo was followed by a nurse rolling in a wheelchair.  “Hey Kiddo, ready to blow this joint?”

“Yeah, Dad,” Shawn answered, stuffing the picture back into his pocket.

Chapter 8

About a week later, Chloe was looking at some CDs at DotCom when she spotted Belle coming in.  “Hi, Belle.”

“Oh, hey Clo,” Belle said, gesturing to a nearby booth.  Both headed over to the seats.  “So, how’s the dance committee gig going?  The music selection all set?” Belle asked.

“No, everything’s moving pretty slowly.  Since Shawn’s hurt, I’ve been pretty much on my own.  I mean, he helps a little, but it’s not the same thing.  Why don’t they just hire a DJ or something?”

“The class officers decided to do something different this year, you know, having it totally student-organized.”

Chloe nodded.  “Sometimes, I think, why am I doing this for a bunch of snot-nosed kids who couldn’t appreciate good music if it came up and bit them in the @$$.  But, I guess I’m doing it for me, you know, finish what I start, see things through.  Try not to make the same mistake my mom did.”

“Good for you, Chloe,” Belle nodded, adding after a brief pause, “So, how’s Shawn doing?”

“Why don’t you just visit him and see for yourself?”

“I don’t really want to get into the reasons right now.  It’s a long story.”

“Well, okay.  He seems all right, I guess.  You know, the usual Shawn demeanor for the most part, although he can get pretty cranky and moody, which is understandable given his situation and all.  Sometimes, he seems a million miles away, looking like he just lost his best friend or something.  Wonder why that is,” Chloe said, looking at Belle.  Getting no response, she continued, “You two are just like those soap operas.   Misunderstandings, miscommunications, creating complications where there aren’t any.”

“YOU watch those?”

“Catch ‘em once in a while,” Chloe shrugged.  “Got a problem with that?”

“Nope, it’s just that you’re one big surprise after another, Chloe Lane.”

Chloe smiled.  “Don’t change the subject, Belle.  Where was I?  Oh yeah.  You guys are so tortured, and for no reason.  You and Shawn are like…written in the stars or something.”

“Didn’t know you were such a romantic.”

“I’m not,” Chloe lied.  “It’s just that you two are more obvious than the chip on my shoulder.”

Belle laughed at that, appreciating Chloe’s dry sense of humor.  Just then, she noticed Phillip walking in.  Spotting Chloe, he stared for a long while.  Suddenly, as if breaking out of a trance, he tries to play it off, but the whole episode does not go unnoticed by Belle.

Meanwhile, Chloe was still talking.  “All I know is you and Shawn had better resolve this thing between you two.  Otherwise, not only will you two go crazy, but more importantly, you’re gonna drive everybody around you crazy, including me.  And I don’t need any more problems.”

“How about we talk about something else, Chloe?” Belle pleaded.

Not one to push, Chloe said, “Sure.  Like what?”

“How about YOUR love life?”

“That’s easy.  It’s non-existent.”

“You never did tell me who was on the docks with you the night of Shawn’s birthday party.”

Just then, a huge crash made both girls jump.  A rack of CDs had collapsed onto the floor, Phillip evidently having tripped and knocking it over.

“Getting an earful, Phil?”  Belle yelled.

Apparently too embarrassed to answer, Phillip pretended not to hear, while trying to nonchalantly replace the rack.

Suddenly remembering something, Belle glanced at her watch.  “Oh, I almost forgot.  I have to go meet my mom at the hospital.  You’re off the hook for now, Chloe.  We SHALL continue this conversation,” Belle smiled mischievously at Chloe as she rushed out the door.

At the hospital, Belle decided to make a stop before going to meet Marlena.  She approached the door quietly and hesitantly, standing on her toes to look through the small window.  Shawn’s face wore an anguished grimace as he struggled to regain use of the muscles in his legs.  Every movement seemed to register pain in his body.  Sweat drenched his face and shirt, his hair matted to his head.  Belle placed a hand on the cold glass, wishing she could help him in some way, comfort him somehow.  She suddenly felt a hand on her shoulder.  Startled, she whirled around to see Hope behind her.

“Oh, hi Mrs. Brady,” Belle said, quickly wiping at her eyes.

“Hi, Belle.  Why are you standing out here?  Why don’t you come in?  I’m sure Shawn will be very happy to see you.”

Yeah, right, thought Belle.  “Oh, I have to go meet Mom.  I’m already late.  I was just checking to see how Shawn’s doing.”

“Okay, maybe later then,” Hope said, continuing to look at Belle curiously.  Placing a hand on Belle’s face, she asked worriedly, “Is everything all right, honey?”

“Yeah, everything’s fine.  Bye, Mrs. Brady,” Belle replied, hurrying down the hallway before Hope could answer.

Chapter 9

Bo watched as Jessie, the physical therapist, helped his son with some stretching exercises, followed by the therapy session itself.  After a while, the therapist announced, “Let’s take five.”  Shawn sat down next to his dad.

“Good news, Dad.  Jessie said she sees enough improvement for me to start using crutches.”

“That’s my boy,” Bo smiled.  After a pause, he asked, “I’ve been meaning to ask… what’s been going on with you lately, Shawn?   I mean, you’ve been real despondent and cranky…down in the dumps.”

“Well, Dad, I was in an accident that busted up my legs pretty good.  Kinda ruins your day when that happens.”

“You miss her, huh?”

“What?”

“Belle.  You miss her.”

“You’re grabbing at straws, Dad.”

“Am I?  Let’s examine the clues, shall we?” Bo said as Hope entered the room.

“What are my two favorite Brady men discussing?” she asked.

“How we know about Shawn’s thing for Belle Black.”

“Oooh, interesting topic,” Hope said.

“Unbelievable.  This is ridiculous,” Shawn said, rolling his eyes.

“Methinks the man doth protest too much, wouldn’t you say Fancy Face?”

“ ‘Tis true, ‘tis true,” she teased.

“Okay, clue #1…you mope around all day, only showing the slightest interest when the word ‘belle’ is uttered,” began Bo.

“Two, you mumble her name in your sleep,” Hope joined in.

“Three, that worn-out picture of you and Belle sticking out of your pocket there.  Need we go on?”

Shawn blushed as he shoved the photo deeper into his pocket.  “Why do I feel like I’m being ambushed here?  Besides, you see how we fight, and over the smallest, dumbest things.”

“I’d say that’s a good sign.  What do you think, Hon’?” Bo said, winking at Hope.

“I think it’s what’s called sexual tension.”

“Mom,” Shawn groaned.

“Well,” Bo said, “there’s my cue to leave.  Your mom’s about to launch into one of her theories.”  Catching a look from Hope, Bo quickly added, “And what excellent theories they are.”  He got up, kissed his wife and left.

“As I was saying,” Hope continued, “the way I see it, you two have this chemistry, this electricity…passion between you two, and you’re both not sure how to express it and so it comes out as fighting and bickering.  You can’t decide if you love or hate each other.  Denial is the first sign, you know.”

“Well, great,” Shawn said sarcastically.

Hope leaned in closer to look into his eyes.  Speaking more discreetly and seriously, she asked, "What is going on between you and Belle?  Why haven’t you two talked face to face for weeks now?”

“Mom, I can’t talk about that now.”

“Talk to me, Shawn.  Whatever it is, it’s obviously making the both of you miserable.”

“How do you know Belle’s miserable?”

“I just saw her outside…”

“Belle’s here?” Shawn interrupted, eyes lighting up.

“No, she just left.  I asked her to come in, but she made some excuse to leave.  Apparently, she’s been checking up on you.  You wanna tell me why she won’t come in to see you?”

“I don’t know, Mom.  Things are really weird between us now.  You wouldn’t understand.”

“Try me.”

“Okay, okay.”  Taking a deep breath, he began, “The day before the accident, Belle and I, we almost…I can’t believe I’m talking to my mom about this…we almost kissed.  I confronted her about it the next day, but she said she just wanted to drop it without even discussing it.  Just wanted to pretend it never happened.”

“And how do you feel about that?”

“I don’t know,” Shawn sighed.  “I guess I was really upset.  Maybe I scared her off.  Maybe, she doesn’t want to upset me more.  Maybe, she just plain hates me.  I don’t know.  I couldn’t begin to know how Belle feels.”

After a long pause, Hope said, “I won’t pretend to know what Belle’s feeling, but I DO know that you two are very young still and that you’ve known each other for a very long time.  She may be just as confused as you are.  Give her some time.  In the meantime, it’s very important that you two maintain your friendship.”  Hope stared off into space, a distant look in her eyes.  “She helped save your life, you know.  She somehow had a feeling you were in trouble.  God knows what would have happened if we’d gotten there too late.  I owe that girl everything.”  Looking back at Shawn, Hope continued, “You and Belle have a special connection.  Don’t ever let anything sever it.”

Chapter 10

Bo and Shawn were in their living room, watching TV when the doorbell rang.  Answering the door, Bo was greeted by John and his young new intern.  

“Hey, Bo.  Got a minute?” John asked.

“Yeah, what’s up?”

As if just remembering that someone was standing next to him, John smiled sheepishly and said, “Oh, by the way, meet my new junior assistant Jonathan Laureles.  Jonathan, this is my good friend, Bo Brady.”

Hearing Jonathan’s name, Shawn looked up.  Introductions now over, Bo and John headed into the study, leaving Jonathan alone with Shawn.

Getting up on his crutches, Shawn turned to face Jonathan.  “So, you must be Jonathan Laureles, teen prodigy of the business world, and brown-noser extraordinaire.”

“And you are?” Jonathan queried, unaffected.

“Shawn Brady.”

“Ah, big man on campus at Salem High, rebel without a cause, recent cripple, and the apple in Belle Black’s beautiful blue eyes.”

“So, I hear you’ve managed to weasel your way into her life, becoming her new best friend even…”

“And don’t forget, escorting her to your school’s big lame dance.”

“I don’t know what she sees in you, but if you hurt her in anyway, and I mean in anyway at all, you’re a dead man,” Shawn threatened.

“Says who?  A bitter cripple?”

“A REAL friend, since we were both in diapers.  Hell, since we were born,” Shawn said, his anger surging.

“Big, passionate talk for someone who’s ‘just a friend’.  Jealousy does not look good on you, my friend.  Anyway, what kind of friend are you?  You haven’t even spoken to her in weeks.  Too busy feeling sorry for yourself, I suppose.”

“How do you know all this?”

“The grapevine, Shawnie Boy.  Gossip travels fast in small towns.”

“Well, you don’t know me, man,” Shawn retorted. “And you sure as hell don’t know Belle.  So, I suggest you step VERY carefully as far as she’s concerned.”

“Don’t worry, she’s in good hands,” Jonathan smirked, angering Shawn even more.  

Shawn was about to respond when John and Bo returned from their brief conference.  

“Well, I must be going,” Jonathan said.  “Good day, Mr. Rebel.”

Shawn felt anger boiling over inside of him, but all he could do was grit his teeth and hold it in.

Later that day, the phone rang over at the Blacks’ residence.

“I got it!”  Belle yelled.  “Hello?”

There was a moment of silence at the other end, and then, “Belle?  It’s me, Shawn.”

Surprised by his call, Belle responded with a silence of her own.  “Hey, Shawn,” she said.

“So, how’s everything going in the land of the young and the crutch-less?” he asked.

“Okay, I guess.  How are YOU doing?”

“As well as can be expected, thanks.”  There was an awkward silence before Shawn continued.  “Oh, I met that new guy Jonathan yesterday.”  Another pause.  “Look, Belle, I’m just gonna cut to the chase.  Something’s not right about him.”

Wondering if Shawn might be jealous, Belle asked, “What do you mean?”

“He just came off as a real jerk with something up his sleeve, some hidden agenda.  He’s up to no good.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me, Shawn.”

“I’m telling you, Belle.  That guy’s bad news.”

“What proof do you have?” Belle said, getting slightly angry, too riled up to listen to reason.

“I don’t exactly have any.  I just have a gut feeling.”

“Unbelievable.  It’s the first time we’ve talked in weeks, and you’re lecturing me on how to choose my friends.”

“Just hear me out, Belle.  Please!”

“I have to go.”

“Fine!  Be that way!” Shawn yelled, giving up.

“Fine!”

Both slammed down their phones.  Shawn picked up a football and hurled it at the wall, frustration and pent-up emotions gnawing at his very being.  Meanwhile, Belle, emotionally jarred as well, kicked at a stuffed toy on the floor, only to miss and stub her toes on a dumbbell.  She fell to the floor, hot tears streaming down her face.

Chapter 11

Though their phone conversation ended badly, Shawn’s warning did give Belle some food for thought.  Over the next few days, she began noticing the strange behavior exhibited by Jonathan, something she had never really paid attention to before.  She still liked him, but his constant compliments and praises grew tiresome, even nauseating.  To make matters worse, he tended to treat her like some brainless twit.

Her suspicions did not peak, however, until she went to visit her father at work one day, only to find Jonathan in John’s office, rummaging through his desk.

“What are you doing here?  And, where’s my dad?” Belle had asked, startled to find Jonathan there alone.

“Oh, he just stepped out for a minute,” he said calmly.  “I’m just looking for a…a stapler.”

“Here, let me help you,” Belle said, handing him a stapler she took from the bookcase.  “My dad usually keeps his office locked when he’s away from his desk.”

“And what am I?  Some stranger off the streets?  You really need to work on your trust issues, Belle,” Jonathan said as he calmly straightened his suit and left the office.

Devising a plan to do a little investigating on Jonathan, Belle recruited Phillip and Mimi to help her carry it out.  She asked them not to tell the grownups in case Jonathan turned out to be legit.  Besides, they all seemed oddly preoccupied over something concerning Hope’s pregnancy.  And, of course, she refused to tell Shawn for obvious reasons - fear of disrupting his recovery being among them.  Meeting her cohorts, Belle began explaining the details.  “So, here’s the plan….”

Later that day, Belle, Mimi, and Phillip invited themselves over to Jonathan’s house.

“Hi, you guys.  I wasn’t expecting….”  The surprised, almost guilty look on his face as he opened the door suggested that they had interrupted something.

“Hey, Jon,” Belle greeted.  “Hope you don’t mind us dropping in to hang out.”

“Actually, I was just in the middle of some…housecleaning.”

Ignoring his subtle attempt at a brush off, Belle asked, “You mind if I go freshen up?  It’s so hot and sticky outside.”  Before he could answer, she had already made herself at home.

“Yeah, me too.  You have another bathroom, man?” Phillip chimed in.

They left Mimi alone with Jonathan.  Using her gift for gab, she was to keep him busy with conversation while Belle did some quick digging and Phillip stood watch.  “So,” Mimi began, “I’ve heard a lot about your adventures around the world.  I would love to hear about ‘em.”

Shrugging, Jonathan obliged.

Belle started with what looked to be the library.  She pulled at the desk drawers but was irritated to find them all locked.  Frustrated, she quickly surveyed the entire room.  

Meanwhile, outside the door, Phillip was to stand guard and give her a sign if he heard someone coming.  He suddenly realized he really did need to use the restroom.  “Come on, Belle.  Hurry up,” he muttered.  Feeling that he could no longer hold it, he left his post.  I’ll only be a sec, he thought.

Back inside the library, Belle was heading over to a closet, when she tripped over something.  Looking down, she noticed a barely-visible protrusion in the rug-covered floor.  She removed the thick rug and saw that it was a loose floorboard.  Prying it up with her fingers, she realized that it was some sort of hiding place.  Apparently, in his rush, he had neglected to replace the board properly.  She reached into the space and removed a small black box.  Opening it, she discovered what looked to be at least 20 ID cards.  Upon closer inspection, the individuals pictured on them resembled Jonathan in one way or another.  She sorted through them.  All featured different names and addresses; all seemed to have Jonathan in various disguises.  Again, she fished around the space, pulling out a small book.  Flipping through it, she discovered that it contained a list of names, John Black being among them.  What the hell are you up to, Jonathan?  She thought.  

“Interesting read, I trust,” Jonathan said from the door.  “Congratulations, Miss Black.  You’re smarter than the average teen queen.”  The English accent had disappeared.

“I’m so sorry, Belle.  I tried,” Mimi cried as Jonathan ushered her through the door.

Startled and terrified, Belle dropped her findings.  She quickly located and picked up a nearby golf club, poised to strike.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you, Sweet Thing,” Jonathan said, pulling out a gun, a shiny silencer attached to its nozzle.

Just then, footsteps were heard rushing to the door.  “Belle?” Phillip whispered loudly.  With Jonathan temporarily distracted, Belle saw her opportunity.  She swung the club at him but only came up with empty air as he swerved to avoid impact.  He then lunged forward to grab Belle, placing the gun to her head.  “You stupid b**ch!  You screwed up my plans!  Well, I’m gonna get what I want one way or another.”  Glaring at Phillip and Mimi, he growled, “You two, tell her Pop to wait for my call.”  With that, he vacated the premises, hauling Belle with him.

Meanwhile, Chloe sat at her house, waiting for Belle’s phone call.  She was to call the police if she didn’t hear from them in 45 minutes.  Seeing the time limit pass, she picked up the phone and called the police.  She tried to explain the situation as best she could, but because so much of her story was speculation-based, they didn’t believe her, brushing her off as a prank call.  Panicked, she dialed the Black’s number and quickly told John what was going on.  Before she could finish, John was already out the door.

Chapter 12

When John arrived, a guilt-stricken Phillip and a hysterical Mimi filled him in on what happened.  Feeling helpless and harboring pangs of guilt himself, John passed on the information to Marlena and the Bradys.  Now, all they could do was wait.

Meanwhile, Belle did her best to put up a struggle against Jonathan, but was silenced with a blow to the face.  When she awakened, she found herself strapped to the passenger seat of a car, her hands bound with rope.  She turned to see Jonathan driving next to her.  “Where are we going?” she demanded.  She got no answer from her captor.  “My family will hunt you down to the ends of the earth.  The whole town’s probably looking for me right now….”

“Shut up! Just shut up!”  Jonathan shouted.  He stopped at what looked to be a small rundown motel.  As far as she could tell, they were in the middle of nowhere.

After quickly checking in at the front office, Jonathan rushed Belle into one of the vacant units.  He placed a gag over her mouth and left her to sit in a corner of the room.  He paced around the room, muttering to himself as if unsure of what to do next.  Standing in front of her now, he hissed, “I can’t believe Rich Girl tripped me up!”  Then, moving closer until she felt his breath blanketing her face, he traced his fingers down her cheek, saying, “Maybe you can make it up to me, Sweetness.”  A sleazy smile materialized on his lips, no doubt indulging in some sick, perverse fantasy.  Belle held her breath, too frightened to move.  Tears streamed down her face.  Suddenly, he whipped out his cell phone.  “But, first things first.”

Belle breathed out a sigh of relief, albeit cautiously.  She had never felt so dirty in all her life.  She listened as he made the inevitable ransom demand to her parents.

“No, you listen to ME, Mr. Black!  I have the upper hand here.  Do exactly as I say or you’ll be planning your beloved daughter’s funeral by tomorrow morning!”

Belle heard the cell click off.  She saw the worry and anxiety on Jonathan’s face as he sat there.  He evidently hadn’t anticipated this glitch in his plans.  He hadn’t devised a back up plan, hadn’t thought he needed one.  Belle couldn’t believe a criminal could be so ill prepared.  She figured Jonathan was of the dumb and slow-witted variety.  

He sat motionless for a long time, lost in his thoughts, apparently no longer aware of her presence.  Eventually, he seemed to doze off.  Belle waited until she was certain he was asleep.  Remembering, a rope trick her dad once showed her when he was in one of his “Soldier Black” moments, Belle set to work freeing her hands and removing the gag over her mouth.  

Tip-toeing to the door, she quietly slipped out.  Once outside, however, she suddenly felt disoriented and lost.  To make matters worse, it was fast approaching nighttime.  She had no earthly idea where she was, so she just started running, putting as much distance between her and Jonathan as she possibly could.  Finally out of breath, she found herself at a deserted gas station.  Nobody seemed to be around.  Where the hell is everybody?  she thought to herself.  It’s like the freakin’ Twilight Zone here.  Carefully surveying her surroundings, she finally spotted a pay phone.  Ecstatic, she ran over to it.

Meanwhile, the Bradys were gathered with the Blacks at the latter’s home.  The phone suddenly rang, jarring everyone’s already frazzled nerves.  Diving for the phone, John almost shouted into the receiver, “Hello?!”

“I have a collect call for John Black from Belle Black.  Do you accept?”

“Yes!  Yes, I accept!  Belle?”  Everyone immediately jumped up and gathered around John.

“Daddy?”

“Isabella!  Are you okay, baby?  Did he hurt you?  Is he there?”

“He was asleep when I left him.  It won’t be long before he realizes I’m gone and comes looking for me.  Daddy, I’m so scared.”  

John’s heart broke, hearing the panic and fear in his daughter’s voice.  “I know, honey.  I know.  Can you tell me where you are?”

“I have no idea.  I’m at a gas station right now…I’m guessing, somewhere out of town.  But, nobody’s here.”

“Okay, okay.  Is there a number on the phone?”

“Yeah.  But, it’s all scratched out.  I can’t read it,” Belle answered, now more panicked than ever.

“Okay, hon’.  We’re gonna trace the number and address, and come get you, okay?  Don’t you worry.  Just hang on for a few more minutes, okay, Belle?  Belle?  Hello?  Belle?”

“Oh my God, Belle!”  Marlena whimpered, putting a hand over her mouth.  “Why isn’t she answering?”  Hope put a comforting arm around her friend.

“Bo, did you get the trace?”  John barked, the mercenary now taking over.

“Yeah, got it.  Let’s go.”

“Marlena, Hope.  You two stay here in case she calls again,” John ordered.

“Where’s Shawn?”  Bo wondered aloud as he and John raced to the car.  Once there, they discovered Shawn already in the back seat.

“Out!”  John ordered.

“No way!  I’m going!  There’s nothing you can say to make me get out of this car.  You’re just gonna waste time trying to make me stay here,” Shawn shot back determinedly.

“He’s right,” Bo said.  “My son can be very stubborn.”

“Alright.  Let’s go.”  John growled, exasperated.

The whole ride there was a long, nightmarish experience for Shawn.  He couldn’t get to Belle fast enough.  He sat in the car, rocking back and forth, trying to block back all kinds of horrible scenarios his imagination could throw at him.  Memories of Belle flooded his mind.  “Please, God, let her be okay,” he whispered over and over.

Chapter 13

Belle crouched deep into the shadows of one of the gas pumps and its surrounding shrubbery, tightly clutching a metal rod she had found in a nearby trash bin.  Moments earlier, when she was on the phone with her father, she had noticed a suspicious-looking vehicle circling the block.  Aware that it might be Jonathan, she had quickly ducked for cover.  She cursed herself for neglecting to place the phone back in its original position, fearing that it could give her away.  But then she remembered that her father needed the time to trace the phone number and its corresponding address.

Fifteen minutes passed before she heard a car engine grind to a halt and being switched off, and the thunderous sound of the door slamming shut.  She heard slow, cautious footsteps and then the click of the phone receiver being placed back onto its cradle.  Five minutes later the shadowy figure stood just inches from her hiding place.

She would not miss this time.

Taking a deep breath, she rammed the rod with all her might into Jonathan’s groin area.  As he doubled up in pain, she smashed the weapon into the back of his head.  He went down in an awkward heap.  

Dropping the rod, she finally allowed herself a breath of air.  She reached for the gun Jonathan had dropped when he fell.  She struggled to grasp it.  She had never handled one before and was loathed to do it now.  But she had no choice; Jonathan might suddenly awaken at any moment.  To make matters worse, she could not make her hands stop shaking.  She fumbled with the gun for a full minute before finally achieving at least a clumsy grip on it.  It felt immensely heavy in her small hands.  She hoped she would not have to use it.

Belle stood for a minute, considering her options.  She couldn’t decide what to do next.  Should she run?  But where to?  Or, should she stay and wait for her dad but risk Jonathan waking up.  Nothing seemed like a good idea.  The more she thought about it, the more panicked she became.  Indecision plagued her.  He could regain consciousness at any moment, she kept reminding herself.  “Think fast, Belle!” she said to herself.  For a second, she even considered taking Jonathan’s truck even though she didn’t know if she would be able to drive it.

Suddenly, sirens could be heard in the distance.  Her dad was on his way, and he had brought the cavalry with him.  She had never heard a sweeter sound in her life.

Chapter 14

John escorted his little girl away from the dense crowd of police, reporters, and onlookers.  Apparently in shock from her recent ordeal, her face was devoid of emotions.

Shawn saw no way to get to her through the crowd, especially with his bulky crutches in the way.  He needed to let her know that he was here for her.  So, he did the only thing he could think of: he called out to her.  It worked because she looked in his direction.  After briefly consulting with her father, she headed over to him.  

Standing face to face with Belle now, he suddenly didn’t know what to say.  His heart broke to see her like this - her tear-stained face bruised, her hair and clothing disshelved.

“Belle, I…um….uh….”

Without warning, Belle pulled him into a hug, folding herself into his arms like a little child.  Shawn returned her embrace just as fiercely, holding her as close to him as he could.  Tears sprang to his eyes.  “I’m so sorry…”  he whispered, choking back tears.  They clung to each other for dear life.  Holding Belle in his arms, Shawn realized for the first time just how tiny and fragile she was.  He felt her small body convulse with stifled sobs.  “It’s okay.  Just let it out, Belle.  You don’t have to be perfect for me, remember?”  Shawn soothed as he hugged her tighter.  

They held each other for a long time until Belle finally broke the embrace, retreating to her father’s outstretched arm.  Shawn watched as John escorted her to his waiting car.  No words were spoken.  None were necessary.

After a brief visit to the hospital for medical attention, John took Belle down to the police station to give her statement.  Before leaving the station, Belle stopped at Jonathan’s holding cell.  He glared at her as she stood in front of him.  “Look what you did to my head, you little brat!” he growled, massaging the back of his head.

“Why did you do it?” she asked without emotion.

He shrugged.  Then smirking, he said, “Everybody’s gotta make a living.  Mine just happens to be preying on dumb little rich girls and their families.”

“You’re on the wrong side of those bars to be saying that,” Belle retorted.  

“Won’t be here for long, Sweetheart,” he shrugged again.  “Got connections.”

“Yeah, well…we’ll see about that.”  She turned to leave, but not before adding (still without emotion), “Not bad for a brainless twit, huh?”

Chapter 15

Upon further investigation, 17-year-old Jonathan Laureles from London, England was discovered to be 24-year-old con man Randy Dumkrook from Allen, Texas.  Apparently, he also had an as-yet-unknown accomplice who had served to “authenticate” Dumkrook’s respective background information for each of his many aliases.  Furthermore, he had evidently been sent by someone to target John Black and his family, though the identity of that person also remained a mystery.

During his stay at the police station holding cell, Dumkrook received a surprise visit from Shawn, who somehow managed to slip through to his cell undetected, despite his encumbrances.  Shawn wasted no time in trying to get at the con man.  Dumkrook didn’t help himself by aggravating Shawn’s already-rattled nerves.  “Hey, Mr. Rebel.  How’s your little girlfriend?” he sneered when he noticed Shawn approaching.

“You sick bastard!” Shawn roared, rage almost blinding him.  “I told you if you hurt Belle that I’d kill you myself.  And I’m a man of my word.  When I’m done with you, not even your own mother will recognize you!”  Shawn spat out the threat, his eyes filled with dangerous hatred, his words laced with venom.

Despite his handicap, it took Bo AND Roman to restrain Shawn.  For the first time, the smug look on Dumkrook’s face faded.  Finally restoring some measure of calm, the two officers quickly escorted a grumbling Shawn away before he could again get at the now clearly disconcerted con man.  

Some days later, Belle lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling.  The phone rang, interrupting the quiet in her room.  She stayed where she was, letting the answering machine pick it up.

“Um, hi, Belle.  It’s me, Shawn.  I know you’re probably not in the mood to talk to anybody right now after the week you’ve had…I just wanted to make sure you’re okay.”  He paused.  “I wished I had been there to, you know, protect you from that son-of-a-b**ch.  But, I guess you didn’t need it.  I can see the headlines now, ‘Young Heroine Whacks Criminal Twice Her Size.’  You wield a mean weapon, Belle,” Shawn chuckled.  Another pause, then: “Listen, Belle, I know I don’t always say or know the right things to say, but just know that I’m here whenever you need me.  I hope you try to remember that.”

Belle smiled as the message ended, glad to hear Shawn’s voice.  Finally feeling the full effect of her trying week, she drifted off to sleep, only to be awakened by the same nightmare that had plagued her for days now.  

As was her ritual every night since the kidnapping, Marlena came in to check on Belle.  Seeing her daughter in tears, Marlena sat down on the bed, put her arms around Belle, and cradled her as if she were a baby.  Belle leaned into her mother’s embrace and sobbed freely.  

“Oh my dear, sweet baby girl.  It’s all over.  Everything will be alright now.  Your father and I won’t let anybody hurt you,” Marlena soothed.  

Belle cried until she felt emotionally cleansed.  After a long while, she finally spoke.  “Mom?”

“Yes, honey.”

“Can I talk to you about something?”

“Of course, sweetheart.  Anything.”

Marlena waited patiently as Belle collected her thoughts.  “Remember that day - the day of Shawn’s accident - I came home from school upset and I wouldn’t tell you why?”

Marlena nodded.

“Well, the day before that, me and this guy - whom I’ve known forever - we, well, kinda had a moment.  He wanted to talk about it, but I guess I wasn’t ready for that conversation.  I just wanted to drop it entirely.  We haven’t talked about it since.  I just want things to be like they were before.  All this awkwardness is driving me crazy.”

“So, what are you and Shawn going to do now?”

“I don’t know…” Belle began, then staring at Marlena in surprise:  “How did you know I was talking about Shawn?”

“Lucky guess,” Marlena smiled.

“Oh.  Anyway, I’ve been trying to stay away from him.  He has enough to think about without having to get into another fight with me.  He needs to concentrate on recovering and therapy.  Besides, he’s so stubborn and hard to talk to sometimes.”

Marlena nodded again.  “DO you have feelings for Shawn?”

“I don’t know.  I mean, maybe.  I don’t know.  It’s all so confusing,” Belle said, clutching her head.  “On the one hand, he drives me up the wall AND he doesn’t exactly fit my description of the ideal guy.  You know, older, sophisticated, worldly.  But on the other hand, I get all crazy jealous when I see him with another girl, and I get these weird feelings when I’m around him.  All I know is, we need some kind of closure or something.  All this tension’s making me insane.”

Marlena waited patiently until Belle finished before speaking.  “Sweetheart, I don’t know if I’m one to give romantic advice.  But, as someone who knows a thing or two about love’s trials and tribulations, it has been my experience that you don’t get to pick and choose who you love, checklist or otherwise.  You love who you love.  It’s as simple and as complicated as that.  There’s no rhyme or reason to it.  Fighting it won’t help; it’ll just intensify.  So, sticking strictly to some checklist may not be the best way to find your soulmate, or ‘The One’.  Chasing after a set of criteria is, well, just that - chasing after a fantasy, looking for a matching list of characteristics.  You might find it, you might not.  You might not even like it once you find it.  Looking for certainty in the unknown is an oxymoron in and of itself…next to impossible, not to mention dangerous.”

Belle thought about her former fascination with Brandon Walker and “Jonathan Laureles”, and cringed.  She had to admit that what her mother was saying was very true.  “So, you’re saying I should settle for what’s familiar.”

“Well, I wouldn’t use the word ‘settle’.  I’m talking about finding the UNEXPECTED in the familiar.  Follow your heart - as cheesy, cliched, and vague as it may sound.  You don’t always have to be on the lookout, or checking off items on a grocery list you’ve made up.  Sometimes, you find what you want without even looking for it.  Do you understand, honey?”

Belle nodded.  “I think so.”  Then, rubbing her temples, she sighed, “Why does it all have to be so complicated and confusing?  I almost wished we could go back to our petty little fights.”

“The best things in life wouldn’t be so wonderful if they were easy, Belle.  But, then again, what do I know.  Believe it or not, I’m STILL trying to figure it all out.  Unfortunately, the confusion never ends, but the rewards are priceless.”  

Marlena gazed at her daughter, who seemed to be lost in thought.  Then, glancing at her watch, Marlena said, “Well, I’d better let you get some rest.”  She kissed the top of Belle’s head.  “Good night, honey.  Sweet dreams.”

“ ‘Night, Mom.”

Marlena got up from the bed and headed for the door.  Turning around, she said, “I love you, Isabella.”

Belle smiled up at her.  “Love you too, Mom.  And thanks…for the talk.”

“Anytime, angel.”  Marlena winked as she let herself out, leaving Belle alone with her thoughts.  She had much to think about.

Chapter 16

Shawn was feeling immensely sorry for himself.  It was the night of the big end-of-school dance and here he was relearning how to walk.  He knew it was a petty thing to mope about but he couldn’t help it.  Not that Shawn was a big fan of dances.  He wasn’t.  But he got the feeling that while everybody else was moving forward, he was regressing, moving backward - the other kids carrying on with their carefree little lives while he was learning how to walk for the second time in his life.  He felt left behind and utterly depressed.  Self-pity washed over him despite the great strides he had accomplished since beginning the physical therapy.  After all, he could stand on his own now as well as take slow baby albeit ungraceful steps.  

And worrying about Belle only served to exacerbate his misery and crankiness. Suddenly losing his balance, Shawn found himself falling forward, his arms shooting out to break the fall.  The physical therapist’s arms immediately came to assist.

“I got it,” Shawn growled impatiently, but the arms persisted.  “I SAID, I…” Looking up, Shawn saw not the therapist, but Belle.

“Belle…” he said, surprised.  She was dressed in a simple tank top and jeans, her hair up in a ponytail - not exactly proper attire for a major school dance.  Whatever she was doing here, she was a sight for sore eyes, Shawn thought to himself.  His heart leapt; his eyes softened.  He felt indescribably glad for her presence and the feel of her sweet touch. 

“Gee, Shawn, are you always this friendly to people who try to help you?”  Belle remarked sarcastically.

She held him briefly as she helped him to his feet.  Despite his protests, Shawn didn’t try to pull away.  Instead, he found himself drinking in her scent, the weakening in his knees having nothing to do with the injury.  He was surprised at the power she had over him.

Belle felt Shawn’s heartbeat quicken, its urgent pace matching hers as she held him.  She felt the ragged rise and fall of his chest against her own.  Overwhelmed, she released him before her emotions threatened to get the better of her.

“What are you doing here, Belle?  Shouldn’t you be at the dance, having fun or something?”

“Change of strategy.  Thought you might need some motivation.”

“Motivation?”  Shawn asked, puzzled.

“Since you’re still mad at me, I thought my being here would get you energized - you know, fired up.”

“Come on, Belle.  I’m not mad at you. But, I don’t need your help or your…” Shawn insisted stubbornly.

“I know, I know…you don’t need my pity.  Well, DAMN your stubbornness…and mine!  This has gone on long enough.  You’ve always been there when I’ve needed you, and I’ll be damned if I let you do this alone!”  Shawn was about to protest again, but Belle wasn’t finished.  “AND I don’t feel sorry for you.  You’re already doing enough of that for the both of us.  And another thing, I will not apologize for what happened to you.  I did NOT make you take your dad’s bike, and I certainly did not make you ride it at some ungodly speed.  That instance of poor judgment was all you, Shawn.”

A long time passed before Shawn spoke.  “Finished?”  Getting no response, he continued, “Good.  Then, I have just two questions.  One, where did all that come from?  And two, when did you become such a potty mouth?”  His brown eyes danced, and a big grin appeared on his lips, the first genuine smile he had allowed himself in weeks.

“Don’t change the subject, Brady.  I’m still mad,” Belle said, smiling in spite of herself and slightly embarrassed at her rapid-fire outburst.

Suddenly becoming serious, Shawn looked into Belle’s eyes.  “Belle, I am SO sorry if I made you feel like I didn’t want to see you.  Nothing could be further from the truth, believe me.  It was dumb of me.  I don’t know…it’s a guy thing, I suppose.  I felt this idiotic need to keep up a macho exterior or something.  And where’d you get the idea that I blamed you for any of this?  I wouldn’t do that to you.  Acting without thinking…that was all me.  I know that.”  

“I have an apology to make too…for being selfish,” Belle admitted.  “I shouldn’t have disregarded your feelings like I did that day at school.  I mean, you had every right to say how you felt too, and I wouldn’t hear any of it.  It was very unfair of me.  I’m sorry, Shawn.”

Shawn took a moment to soak it all in.  Finally, he said, “So…friends?”

“Always,” Belle replied.

Both breathed a sigh of relief, feeling the weight of the world lift off their shoulders.  “Man, you don’t know how relieved I am now that we’ve cleared the air.  To think, we could’ve saved ourselves all this misery if we’d just simply talked,” Shawn said.

“I guess we both had a lot of growing up to do,” Belle said.  Looking at Shawn, she joked, “Some more than others.”

“Hardy har har,” answered Shawn.  “So…what now?”

“Well, since you can’t go to the dance, I’m bringing the dance to you.”

“No way,” Shawn said disbelievingly, though certainly curious.

Chapter 17

Belle headed over to a bag she had left over in a corner of the room.  She lifted out a portable stereo and placed it on a nearby table.  Again digging into the bag, she pulled out some refreshments.

“What, no DJ or fancy lighting in there?” Shawn teased.

“Work with me here, Shawn,” Belle said, looking over her shoulder at him.  She reached over to dim the lights a little as the music began playing.  Turning around to face Shawn, she cleared her throat and said in a mock dramatic tone, “May I have this dance, Mr. Brady?”

Looking around, Shawn responded, “Well, seeing’s how you’re the only girl here, I guess I don’t really have much of a choice.”

“Sure, yuck it up now, Tough Boy.  When you get all better, I’m showing no mercy.”

“Wouldn’t want it any other way,” he said, looking at Belle intently.

Blushing at his comment and stare, Belle stepped toward him.  Very slowly and gently, she helped him out from between the two parallel balance beams and led him to the “dance floor.”  Placing both his arms around her waist, she wrapped her own about his shoulders.

“Just lean on me if you feel like you’re gonna fall,”  Belle suggested.

“Is that an invitation?” 

Belle blushed again.  “No.  I was just saying that I’m stronger than I look, so don’t worry about it.”

“Oh, believe me, I know.  Just look what you did to that Jonathan guy.  We could really use you on the baseball team.  Or the hockey team….”

“Please don’t bring THAT up,” Belle groaned.  “I know…I have the absolute worst taste in men.”

“Present company excluded, I hope.”

“Jury’s still out,” she teased.  “At least you don’t nauseate me…well, not usually.”

“Uh, thanks, I guess.  Well, anyway, next time you decide to do something that might get you killed, I’d appreciate at least a heads up.  Deal?”

“Deal,” Belle smiled.

It was a while before they spoke again.  Finally breaking the silence, Shawn commented, “Sorry I’m not as light on my feet as I used to be.”

“Don’t worry.  I’ll lead,” Belle replied.

“Very funny.”

“If you want, we can just stand still and sway or whatever,” Belle offered in a more serious tone.

“What would be the point then?  It’ll look pretty ridiculous.”

“Look, Shawn, there’s no reason to be embarrassed.  There’s nobody here but me.  Since when did you care about what people thought anyway?”

Staring right at Belle with smoldering brown eyes, Shawn said, “You know very well that I value some people’s opinions more than others.  Anyway, today might be the day I make a breakthrough.”

“Why do you say that?”

Shawn flashed Belle a smile that made her heart flutter.  “Well, let’s just say I feel inspired.”

“Quit making me blush, Brady.”

“So, what do you think the gang’s doing at this very moment?” Shawn wondered.

“I suppose they’re all at the dance by now.  Let’s see, Mimi’s probably eyeing some guy now even though she’s promised YOU her heart. Phil’s probably trying to look cool even without a date.  And Jan and Jason, the two-headed snob du jour, well - you know them - they’re probably STILL trying to buy a clue.”

Shawn laughed out loud at Belle’s last comment.  “I knew it!  Perfect Girl DOES have a sense of humor.”

“Wait, there’s more.  They’ll all get a very big surprise when Miss Chloe Lane makes her grand entrance.”

“Chloe went?”  Shawn asked, genuinely surprised.  “Who’s she going with?”

“Yep, she went alright.  And I’m thinking she won’t be lacking in attention tonight either,” Belle smiled, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

“And why’s that?”
“Let’s just say long black dresses and dark non-prescriptive glasses will no longer monopolize her wardrobe.  And I’m sure Phillip’s mouth will drop the furthest.  I swear, there’s something going on between those two.”

“Phillip and Chloe?” Shawn said, surprised once again.  “Now, I’ve seen it all.  Who’da thunk it?”  Then chuckling, he joked, “I guess you were so busy glamming everyone else up that you forgot about yourself.”

Belle looked down at her tank top and jeans ensemble.  For a moment, he feared that he had offended her again, but she only shut her eyes and cheerfully chanted, “I will not let Shawn Brady get to me.  I will not let Shawn Brady get to me….”

When Belle finished, Shawn looked her in the eye and said, “You know I’m only kidding with you, right?  You’d look perfect in a brown paper bag, Belle.  The most beautiful girl in Salem is definitely NOT at the dance.”

“Aw shucks, Shawn.”

“Actually, I was talking about my mom,” Shawn teased.

Belle slugged him playfully as he pulled her in closer, wrapping both arms tightly around her.  One hand pressed her closer against him while the other played with a belt loop on the back of her jeans.

“I missed you a lot, Belle,” Shawn whispered in her ear.  “I was even desperate to see those chopsticks and Boy Scout knots of yours.”

“You sure know how to ruin a moment, Shawn.”

Ignoring her remark, Shawn continued.  “And when I thought I had lost you….  I’d never been so scared in all my life, and angry.  Every time I think about what that creep did to you, I wanna rip his sorry throat out.”

Speechless for the first time that night, Belle could only look down at the floor, not sure how to respond to Shawn’s heartfelt admission.  They danced for a long while in silence, relishing their closeness.  In the background, Marc Anthony was singing: “ Girl, I live for how you make me feel; so I question all this being real, ‘cause I’m not afraid to love.  For the first time, I’m not afraid of love.  This day seems made for you and me.  And you showed me what life needs to be…All the while you were in front of me, I never realized.  I just can’t believe I didn’t see it in your eyes.  I didn’t see it; I can’t believe it.  Oh, but I feel it, when you sing to me…Just to think you live inside of me.  I had no idea how this could be.  Now I’m crazy for your love, can’t believe I’m crazy for your love.  The words you said just sang to me, and you showed me where I wanna be.  You sang to me….”

It was Belle who finally spoke.  “Shawn?  Can I still take you up on that skydiving, um, parachute jump offer?” She asked cautiously, referring to Shawn’s long-ago proposition on taking chances {see Chapter 2}.

Shawn remained silent for a long time.  Belle’s heart sank, fearing that their time had passed.

Chapter 18

Heartbroken by Shawn’s lack of response -- but still determined to maintain her composure and self-dignity -- Belle quickly added, “ ‘Cause I’d understand if the offer is no longer standing-.”

Shawn interrupted her by placing a finger to her lips.  “Do you EVER stop talking?”  Gently placing a hand on her face and gazing into her alluring eyes, Shawn continued, “You know I wouldn’t dream of falling thousands of feet with anyone else.  But I guess you knew that all along.”

Wiping away tears of joy, Belle said, “Actually, I wasn’t sure.  I took a chance - not an easy thing for me, as you know.”  Belle’s heart swelled with delight and relief.  She couldn’t stop grinning as tears rained down on Shawn’s shirt.  “Spontaneity is NOT my strong suit,” she continued.  “I think EVERYTHING to death.”

“Thinking is a good thing, “ Shawn replied lamely, gazing amusingly at her.

“Not when you beat me to everything.  I mean, it seems like you’re always one step ahead of me.  You’re not, of course, but maybe I should start being more like you - you know, do things without thinking.”

“Maybe you’re going overboard with this new-found sense of humor,” Shawn joked.

“Whatever you say, Brady.”  Belle paused, then looking up at Shawn wonderingly, she added, “Has anyone ever told you, you look a lot like Tom Cruise?”

“Oh, so you only love me for my looks.”

“Nah….  I think it’s your uncanny Celine Dion impersonation that time on the island that finally got me.”

“You making fun of me, Belle?”  Shawn asked, feigning hurt.

“Who me? I would NEVER,” she said innocently.

“A guy sings one song and he’s labeled for life,” Shawn sighed in defeat.

“Oh, so Tough Boy can dish it out, but he can’t take it, huh?”

“Okay, okay.  Score another one for Belle Black.  You’re on a roll today, Perfect Girl.  Who knows, maybe one day you might actually be able to keep up with me.”

“I live only for your approval, Shawn Brady,” Belle countered facetiously.

Both laughed stupidly at their back-and-forth bantering, which had apparently returned to old form.  “Man, I didn’t realize how much I missed this,” Shawn said, once the laughter died.  “You know, all this bickering’s giving people ideas.  Everyone’s convinced you might very well be the love of my life.”

“Oh my gosh!  You get that too?”  Belle asked, her eyes opened wide, practically popping out of their sockets.

“It must be true, then,” Shawn said flirtatiously.  “We’re what my mom calls kindred spirits… soulmates.”

“I never figured you to be the sensitive, sappy type.”

“Well, what can I say?  I’m full of surprises.  It’s your fault, you know, for bringing it out in me.  Of course…I could have been real insensitive and kept you in suspense for a lot longer.”

“Well, excuse me, O Great One.  I guess I should thank you then for letting me off the hook so soon.  Thank you SO much, Shawn-Douglas Brady, for throwing a kink into my carefully constructed plans, for messing with my perfectly planned life,” Belle teased playfully.

Shawn took her hand in his and held it over his heart, his eyes focused, his face serious.  Looking into Belle’s eyes, he whispered, “Thank YOU, Isabella Black, for saving mine.”

Eyes locked, Belle and Shawn leaned in for their long-awaited kiss, but… well…don’t quite make it.

“Ouch!  Sorry!”  They both said in unison, grabbing their foreheads after the collision.

“You know, Belle, you’re really bad for my health,” Shawn said, still massaging the small bump forming on his forehead.

“Ditto, Tough Boy,” Belle returned.  “Oh my gosh, am I bleeding?”

Both let out an embarrassed laugh.  “Let’s try that again, shall we?”  Shawn suggested.

“Proceed with caution, Tough Boy,” Belle joked, again bringing on nervous giggles from both.

After the silliness subsided and seriousness restored, they tried once again, this time with much better results as they were finally able to avoid any further mishaps.  They leaned nervously toward each other, their hearts thundered wildly in anticipation.  As their lips touched for the first time, both felt a wholly pleasant tingling sensation unlike any they’d ever experienced before.  Overwhelmed and unprepared, they pulled back for the briefest of moments to see if the other had felt the same.  Their eyes met, acknowledging the fact that they had both indeed shared the same electrifying feeling.  They moved in again; this time, Shawn’s mouth closed eagerly and with urgency over Belle’s.  She responded in kind, welcoming him with enthusiasm.   Like the way they danced together, their lips moved in perfect synchronicity with each other.  Tender but far from timid, the kiss conveyed a longing and passion that had finally found expression and release.  

The kiss soon deepened.  Tongues and hands both grew more daring in their exploration.  Shawn enveloped Belle in a firm embrace, she fitting perfectly into his arms.  All awkwardness and uncertainty left them as they sought to make up for lost time.

And for a moment, the world stop spinning and time stood still.  There would be no more interruptions this time, no more hesitancy, no more confusion, no more time-outs….

The End