TITLE    : Friends with Benefits Ch. 05
STORYID  : friends-with-benefits-ch-05-2
SUMMARY  : Becca and John: end or new beginning?
AUTHOR   : JayCuck@lit
DATE     : 2014-06-17
CATEGORY : interracial-erotic-stories
FLAGS    : 
TAGS     : |none|


<em>Hi folks. Thank you for reading this chapter of Friends with Benefits.</em> 



<em>I've enjoyed writing it and I hope you enjoy reading it. I've deliberately increased the tension and conflict in this story. I don't think the storyline and characters support a calm relationship any longer.</em> 



<em>I know some folks feel that the Military hasn't been shown in a good light during this series. I disagree and will just say that it's not intentional. Having served in the military, I hold any and all military members or former members, in the highest regard.</em> 



<em>Feel free to reach out and let me know what you think of this chapter. I read and review all feedback on Literotica and I try and return any emails I receive.</em> 



<em>Thanks again.</em> 



<em>Troll Alert: You probably won't like this story. Save your righteous indignation for another category.</em> 



***** 



DeShawn and Becca didn't make it to the movie, in fact, they didn't make it out of the house. When they got back, DeShawn's parents guilted them in to spending the night at home. DeShawns arguments fell on deaf ears and he finally admitted defeat. Becca for her part, liked the idea of getting to know DeShawn's parents better and she wanted to stay. Out voted, out gunned and not stupid, DeShawn conceded defeat. 



Swimming pool was out, because DeShawn's parents weren't in the mood, so they started with Pictionary with DeShawn and Becca on the same team. It wasn't long however, before new teams were chosen and Becca was teamed with Veranda. The girls handily beat the guys, which further showed that Robert and DeShawn were well-trained and smart enough not to win. 



The group headed upstairs and, of course, Robert had a beautiful Brunswick pool table that was so nice, it was almost a work of art. DeShawn and his mother were one team, with Becca and Robert on the other. It was no contest, Robert and Becca easily beat DeShawn and his mother. Unfortunately for DeShawn his mother wasn't much of pool player, but he conceded defeat graciously and everyone had a great time. 



It was probably planned by DeShawn's parents, but either way, Becca bonded with his parents. They were truly good people, down to earth and very accepting of DeShawn's interracial relationship. Becca originally planned to call John, but she was having so much fun, she completely forgot to call him. All through the night, Becca caught DeShawn looking happily between his parents and Becca and it was obvious, he loved their interaction together. 



Finally, the men separated from the women. Robert made a comment about finally getting his son to take an interest in the family business and they departed together. Robert had his hand around his son's shoulder as they walked to another part of the house and Becca found herself smiling at the closeness between father and son. 



"Becca, will you join me? I want to show you my garden." 



"Yes, absolutely Veranda, I'd love to." 



Veranda beamed at Becca and slipped her hand inside of Becca's arm and guided the younger woman out to a surprisingly large garden. It was well cared for, with even rows of fruits and vegetables. 



"Wow. Do you maintain this yourself?" 



"Yes. Robert will help some, but I do most of the work. It's a labor of love for me." Veranda laughed softly. "It's a little funny, but we can afford to buy any fruits or vegetables we want, but I prefer to grow my own. Everything just tastes better." 



"I agree." Becca said softly. "My parents always had a garden as well, not as big or as nice as this one, but they made it a point to grow as much food for us as possible." Becca didn't add that it was a financial decision, as much as a flavor decision. 



Veranda steered her around the garden, pointing out this plant or that one and letting Becca pick a few items. DeShawn's mom, had a basket near the garden, so she was able to put everything in the basket and still walk with Becca. 



"DeShawn likes you Becca." She said softly. "I've never seen him this happy before, not even with his previous wives." 



Becca smiled and looked down as they walked. "Thank you Veranda. That makes me very happy." 



"You're welcome. I don't want to put any pressure on you, I know relationships are tough. You should just know that DeShawn has always had a hard time opening up to people." She squeezed Becca's arm lightly. "But he has with you, and as a mother, I wanted to say thank you for bringing that out of my son. Seeing your children happy is very special to a parent." 



"I know." Becca replied without thinking, without considering Veranda's response. 



Veranda stopped and looked at Becca, her expression soft and understanding. "I thought you might Becca." 



"Veranda-." 



DeShawn's mom put her fingertips to Becca's lips. "Shh. It's ok, Becca. You and DeShawn will find your way forward and choose your own path together. As I mentioned, relationships are different today, than when I was younger, better in some ways and worse in others. Robert and I just want you to know that we like you very much, we love the effect you've had on our son and you'll always be welcome in our home." 



The ladies teared up as they looked at each other and then embraced each other tightly. A full minute later, they broke apart, wiping their eyes and laughing together. When they'd recovered, Becca flashed a relieved smile at Veranda. 



"Thank you Veranda. I've enjoyed meeting both of you and spending time with you and Robert. It's been very special to me." 



"Well, it's late. I'm going to go rescue my son, from my husband." She shook her head. "Robert has been trying to get DeShawn to leave the service and start working for him. I know DeShawn loves his job, but Robert would like to cut back at work and he really wants to hand the business over to his son. It's very important to him." 



"I see." 



"Besides, if DeShawn wants any woman to stick around, he needs to be home more often. It's hard enough to make a marriage work in normal circumstances, but when he's always putting himself in harm's way, it makes a marriage almost impossible." 



"I agree Veranda." Becca said softly. "It's been on my mind a lot." 



"Of course it has, Becca. You're no fool. That's why Robert and I like you so much." She pulled Becca to a stop. "By the way, Robert and I sleep on the other side of the house, away from the pool, so if you and DeShawn want to use it tonight, you don't have to worry about disturbing us." Veranda gave her a little wink and a knowing smile. 



"Thank you Veranda." 



"You're welcome. I was young once too, young lady." 



The ladies giggled like girls as they entered the house and Veranda left Becca in the kitchen and went to rescue her son. 



DeShawn joined her a few minutes later, his expression thoughtful and his smile at Becca was a little forced. He hugged her tightly though and they walked to the guest room. 



"Want to go swimming?" Becca asked softly and met his eyes. "We can talk about what's on your mind." 



"Sure. That's a good idea actually." 



Becca put on one of her bikinis, it was skimpy, but not too skimpy, and after her conversation with Veranda, she felt more comfortable wearing it. DeShawn's eyes lit up, when he saw her put it on and Becca winked at him. 



"Your mom mentioned we wouldn't be disturbed if we used the pool, so I thought you'd prefer this one, over the one-piece I bought today." 



"God, I love my mom." DeShawn replied happily. "And I do love that bikini!" 



"Robes?" 



"Yes." DeShawn replied quickly, ducked out of the room and came back with two large, soft, luxurious robes and they felt amazing against Becca's skin as she left the room. DeShawn grabbed a bottle of white wine and two glasses and they walked to the pool. DeShawn poured the wine, while Becca slipped into the pool, the water was the perfect temperature and she swam to one side, before coming back and sitting on the steps of the pool. 



"Here you go." 



"Thank you." She replied and patted the steps next to her. The steps were actually underwater, so they could sit together in the pool, be in the water, but still able to drink their wine. "What's on your mind? Do you want to talk about it?" 



"Dad's business." DeShawn replied quietly. "He wants me to leave the Air Force and come work for him. Actually take over for him, is more like it." 



"Is that a bad thing?" 



"No, not at all." DeShawn replied. "It's just that I love what I do and I'll miss it. I'm also not sure, if I'm cut out for the business world. I don't have any experience in that area." He sighed and opened the bottle of wine, pouring Becca a glass first, before filling his own. He smiled and shook his head at Becca. "I guess I'm a little afraid to make the change from the Air Force world to the civilian world. I'm afraid of failing, and more importantly, I'm afraid of letting the old man down." 



Becca sipped her wine and listened to DeShawn outline his concerns. Instinctively, she knew it wasn't easy for DeShawn to admit his fears and his worries to Becca and it was a big indication of how much he trusted her now. She also suspected the last concern he mentioned, was also his biggest concern. DeShawn and his father were obviously close and it was obvious, DeShawn wanted desperately to keep his father's approval. 



"DeShawn, your dad will always love you." Becca said softly and DeShawn cocked his head at her in confusion. "Anyone can see that the two of you are close and that your father is extremely proud of you. 



"What are you saying Becca?" 



"Honey, I know it's a difficult decision, but I don't think you need to worry about letting your father down. Honestly, I don't think that's possible." She smiled at her boyfriend. "Your other concerns are absolutely valid, but I don't think you need to worry about the last one." 



Silence settled between them for a moment, before it was broken by a gentle, deep voice. 



"She's right DeShawn." 



Becca and DeShawn looked over and saw DeShawn's father standing in the patio doorway. He was smiling at his son and he walked over slowly. Robert stopped next to Becca and squeezed her shoulder gently. 



"That was well said young lady. Thank you." Becca nodded nervously and sipped her wine, not sure what to say. Robert turned to his son. "DeShawn I couldn't be prouder of you and the man you are today. No matter what happens or what decision you make son, I'll always be proud of you, always love you." 



DeShawn nodded. "Thanks dad." His voice was a little shaky. 



"I apologize by the way, I wasn't intending to eavesdrop, but your mother wanted to share a bottle of wine, so she sent me to get it. I saw you two talking and I was just going to say hi, when I heard the tail-end of DeShawn's comment and your response." 



"It's ok Dad." 



"Enjoy your evening, kids." Robert turned to leave, but stopped at the patio doorway and smiled at his son. "You'll be a fool, if you let her get away DeShawn." 



"I'm not a fool dad." 



"No. You're not, never have been." 



Robert winked at Becca and disappeared inside the house and DeShawn took a long sip of his wine. Truthfully, he sucked down his glass of wine and refilled it again. Becca smiled at her boyfriend, immensely enjoying the interaction between them. The pride and love in Robert's voice was touching. 



"I like your dad." She said simply, more to break the silence than anything else. 



DeShawn set his wine glass down and took a seat next to Becca. "Yea. I couldn't have asked for a better father." He said softly and then added quickly. "Or mother. My parents have been straight-up awesome and I'm blessed." 



"Yes, you are DeShawn." 



"In some ways though Becca, having great parents just makes the pressure that much greater. I want to live up to their expectations and the example they've set for me. Does that make sense?" 



"Of course, DeShawn. You don't think you've done that already?" 



"Yea, I guess, maybe." 



"Maybe? Have you forgotten what you do for a living? How many lives have you personally saved DeShawn?" 



"I don't keep count Becca." DeShawn said seriously. "No one that I know, keeps track of something like that, it's just not done." 



"I understand baby, but you do a job very few people on the planet can do and you do it well." She got up and sat down on his lap. "DeShawn, you've lived up to their expectations honey." She kissed him softly and was rewarded with a tight hug. 



"God, you're amazing Becca. My parents really like you, by the way. You're a hit." 



Becca laughed. "I'm glad DeShawn, I really like your parents and I'm glad you brought me to meet them." 



"Me too." He paused. "I don't want to ruin our evening, but I'm sure they'd like to meet Bethany as well." 



"I was thinking the same thing DeShawn." Becca nodded. "No matter what happens, we need to introduce Bethany to her grandparents." 



"Thank you Becca." 



"Will you take me swimming now?" 



"Damn right." 



They stood up and DeShawn slipped his robe off and dived into the water. Becca didn't follow, she stood, waiting to get DeShawn's attention. He swam back and looked up at her. 



"I thought we were going swimming." 



"We are." Becca said with a naughty smile. "Do we have to wear suits?" 



DeShawn's mouth dropped open, but he recovered quickly and a big smile grew on his face. "No, we don't. Hang on." He hurriedly got out of the pool, walked over and shut off all the patio and pool lights. In seconds, the pool was plunged into darkness, only the lanterns in the flower beds, provided just enough light for Becca and DeShawn. 



As soon as the lights were off, Becca shed her bikini and dived into the water, loving the sensation of the cool water playing over her naked body. Skinny dipping with DeShawn in his parents pool, seemed deliciously naughty to Becca and she swam to one end of the pool, turned quickly, and swam back. DeShawn's body was amazing in the moonlight, nicely muscled and beaded with water, moonlight illuminated each drop of water on his skin. A wide, genuine smile, lit up his handsome, no gorgeous, face, and Becca didn't stop swimming until she was right in front of him. 



"Wow." DeShawn said as Becca stood in the pool water. It came to her waist, so her breasts were completely exposed and Becca loved the look in DeShawn's eyes. His eyes were full of hunger and happiness and Becca wished she could capture them in a picture or a painting. 



"Becca, you are so-." 



Becca's lips closed over DeShawn's, cutting off his voice. It was beautiful moment and she didn't want conversation to ruin it. The warm sensation of DeShawn's arms encircling her, made Becca press herself against his body tightly. Instead of overwhelming passion and urgency, the kiss was soft, gentle and simply pleasing. It was an intimate kiss between two people enjoying each other's company. Becca finally pulled back from DeShawn. 



"Sorry." She said softly. "It was such a beautiful moment, I wanted us to share it with a kiss, rather than conversation." 



"Don't apologize, Becca. That was a great kiss." 



"Will you always look at me like that DeShawn?" Becca looked down for a second, meeting his eyes again. "Will you always desire me?" Her voice was vulnerable, shaky and she trembled slightly in his arms. 



"Yes. A thousand times, yes, Becca." He replied sincerely. "You're beautiful, captivating and I will always look at you like I did tonight." 



The smile that crept over Becca's face, seared itself into DeShawn's brain. Joy. The smile reflected genuine joy and happiness. They held each other and kissed for a little while longer, before they broke off and enjoyed the pool. It was large and they swam and splashed each other like kids. It was several hours, and a few bottles of wine, later, when they donned their robes and went back inside. 



"DeShawn." Becca pulled him to a stop before they got to the guest room. 



"What's up?" 



"Your old bedroom. Can your parents hear us from your old bedroom?" 



"No." He cocked his head, a little smile playing on his face. "Why?" 



"Make love to me in your bedroom. Please. It's important to me." 



DeShawn looked at her for a second, before nodding and taking her hand. "Let's go." 



Their robes dropped silently to the floor and Becca slid back on the bed, pulling DeShawn down top of her. He was already hard, completely hard, and Becca was more than ready and she gasped as DeShawn pushed inside her, loving the thick, completely full, feeling he gave her. Her hands found DeShawn's face and she pulled him into a passionate kiss. The sensation of his lips and tongue thrusting inside her mouth, combined with his delicious, amazing cock pushing inside her pussy, made Becca orgasm. She moaned into DeShawn's mouth and thrust her hips against his as the orgasm washed through her body. 



"You feel so good. So good." Becca said breathlessly. She was trying to stifle her moans. 



DeShawn slowly pulled completely out of Becca, letting the tip of his cock brush her lips, before plunging back inside her. He ground his hips against her, when he thrust inside and Becca responded eagerly, whimpering and moaning as quietly as possible. Her hands alternated between scratching his back and pulling on his ass, trying to get him deeper inside her. 



Becca slid her arms around his shoulders and behind his neck, grasping him tightly and spreading her legs even wider. "More. God, more." She gasped. "I'm yours, DeShawn. Take me please." 



"Mine." DeShawn replied softly, smiling in triumph at the beautiful woman below him. "You're mine." 



"Yours." Becca said softly, staring deeply into his eyes. "Yours." 



No further encouragement was needed and DeShawn thrust powerfully inside Becca, his pace increased quickly and within seconds, DeShawn was pummeling the gorgeous blonde. Moans, louder, unrestrained burst from Becca as another orgasm ripped through her body and she clung to DeShawn's muscular body, enjoying his strength and power, as he thrust his gorgeous, huge cock inside her. A submissiveness and overwhelming sense of femininity exploded within Becca. 



<em>God, he's so masculine. So beautiful, muscular and so freakin' strong.</em> 



Their bodies were slick with sweat, as DeShawn's power-fucking of Becca made them both sweat freely. His breathing quickened and Becca sensed he was close. A few seconds later, DeShawn groaned and released inside Becca. 



"I love it when you cum inside me." Becca said breathlessly. She held him tightly against her, feeling his heartbeat in his chest. "I always want you to do that!" 



A small laugh escaped DeShawn and he looked down at her. "What about earlier, when I came on your chest." 



"Hmm." Becca teased. "I liked that as well. We should do that more often too." 



"Sounds good to me." DeShawn said and slipped out of Becca, rolling onto the bed next to her. "Why was it important to make love in this room tonight?" 



Becca became serious. "I guess because this room is special to you. It holds so many memories for you, I just wanted to be one of those memories. A good memory." She winked at him. "I also wanted to erase any memories of other women that might be lingering in here." 



"I see." He said with a laugh. "Mission accomplished Becca. You're the only woman I'll ever think about in this room." 



"Good." She kissed him and tweaked his nose. "Let's keep it that way." 



DeShawn and Becca made their way back down to the guest room and slid under the covers. Surprisingly, they both fell asleep, with Becca resting her head on his chest. 



* * * 



John closed his eyes and listened to the voicemail. 



"I miss you John and even though we haven't been able to talk, I'm thinking of you." Becca's voice played in John's voicemail. "I miss Bethany so much. Please give her a kiss from me and tell her mommy misses her." A heavy sigh came from the other end of the phone. "We have to talk when I get back John." 

<hr pg="2" />John ended the call, but saved the voicemail. They'd traded voicemails throughout the week and Friday was finally here. Becca was supposed to come back tomorrow and so far, she'd stuck with her original plan to come back on Saturday. Unless she got an extension to her leave (vacation), she'd have to come home or risk being considered AWOL. It wasn't even a distinct possibility, so John was 90% sure she would come home. He wasn't sure if she wanted him to pick her up at the airport, and that's why he wasn't 100% sure, she was coming home tomorrow. It was very likely Becca would speak to her supervisor and extend her leave. 



Bethany walked into the kitchen, holding Donald Duck and yawning widely. 



"Goodness kiddo." John said lightly. "Are you tired?" 



"Yea." Bethany said and John swept her up into his arms. "Are you hungry?" 



No response, Bethany just nodded her head against John's shoulders and she carried her over to the table. "Honey, do you want cereal, oatmeal or eggs?" 



"Oatmeal, please daddy." 



"Sure thing. Coming right up." John dug into the pantry. "Apple and Cinnamon?" 



"Yea!" 



It wasn't a good guess, because that was Bethany's favorite flavor. She liked the one with raisins, but Apples and Cinnamon was her favorite. John zapped the oatmeal in the microwave and a few minutes later Bethany was gulping down her favorite oatmeal. 



"Not so fast honey." John said gently. "You need to chew your food. I'll make more, if you're still hungry." 



"'Kay." 



John got Bethany fed, dressed and ready to head over to AU's house. His family was friendly with John and Becca and Bethany had been over there several times. <em>She'll be spoiled rotten</em>. A smile crossed his face, because his little girl could stand a little spoiling, her Disney Vacation got cut short and her mom had been MIA, all week. 



"There she is!" AU's wife said excitedly, as she opened the door and took Bethany from John's arm with a big smile. Bethany was smiling as well and in a few seconds, they were both laughing as Bethany got tickled. John dropped her bag with a big smile. 



"Don't worry John." AU's wife winked at him. "We'll only spoil her a ton!" 



"Great!" He said wryly. "I don't anticipate being too late, so I should be back around dinnertime, say 6 pm." 



"John, don't worry about it." She gave him a knowing, gentle smile. "Have fun and if you want to pick her up tomorrow, that's fine." 



"Thank you." John said quietly. "Give me a hug kiddo. Daddy's got to go to work." 



Bethany flung herself into his arms. "I love you daddy." 



"Awww. I love you too baby." 



"Bye." Bethany turned and ran back over to AU's wife. 



John made it to work, still no voicemail from Becca. Fortunately, John was asked to run several simulators for the trainee's, so he kept busy. The last training simulator was for Jessica and she did really well. It wouldn't be long, before she was completely certified. 



"Great job, Jessica." 



"Thanks John." She smiled at him. "Wow, you really packed the sky on that one." 



"I just wanted to see how many aircraft you could handle and you did a fantastic job." He smiled. "I'm serious." 



"Awww. You know just what to say to a woman." 



John shook his head. "Your nose is growing Jessica." 



"Whatever Mr. Man." Jessica punched him in the shoulder. "You're still going to the party right?" 



"It's a party?" 



"Party, picnic, get-together, whatever." She rolled her eyes. "Don't change the subject." 



"Yes. Yes." He laughed. "I'm going. I'm not sure how long I'll stay, but I'm going." 



"Excellent!" Jessica beamed. "You better not skip it mister." 



"I won't. I won't." He assured her. "Hey, you still going with your date?" 



Jasmine rolled her eyes. "Ugh. Yes. Only because I haven't thought of a good reason to disinvite him." 



"Trouble in paradise?" 



"He's so shallow, so superficial." She hissed. "He's not exactly a deep thinker. I'll probably let him down easy at the party, or after, either way, we're done." 



"Sorry to hear that." 



"No. It's a good thing." She looked at John. "You wouldn't happen to have a twin brother would you? Someone who's as good-looking, generous, big-hearted, and hard-working?" 



"Ummmm." John was surprised at her question. "No. Sorry. Only child." 



"Hmmm." Jessica winked at him. "Becca better keep a close eye on you." 



"Maybe she will, Jessica." 



"Maybe?" 



John met Jessica's eyes. "Yea, maybe." He honestly tried to keep the stress and pain from his voice, but Jessica obviously heard it. 



"If you want to talk John." She stepped forward and put her hand on his arm. "I'm available." 



"Thank you Jessica." 



"You're welcome." She patted his chest. "Now, buck-up and get ready to party." 



John and Jessica laughed and left the training room. The rest of the shift passed quickly and John went home. He wanted to check the home phone for any messages, because Becca hadn't left a message on his phone. 



<em>Nothing. Am I picking you up or what Becca? What the fuck?</em> 



An empty house. Alone. John's steps echoed in their little house, as he walked back to the bedroom he shared with Becca. <em>Used to share anyway. What's the likelihood she'll ever share a bed with me again. Do I want her to?</em> 



Images, memories of Becca sharing the bed with DeShawn rushed, unbidden, through his head. He didn't want to see them, didn't want to remember them, but he couldn't stop them. Becca's white body, beautiful and curvy, under DeShawn's muscular brown body, the contrast striking and erotic. Her moans filled the air, filled the house, as DeShawn satisfied her physically, but more important, emotionally. DeShawn filled that special longing for black men, that Becca never lost, only suppressed when she married John. 



"Fuck!" John stepped over to Becca's dresser, pulling open a drawer and grabbing a pair of her panties at random. Soft, satiny, sexy, John frantically pulled his cock out and wrapped it in Becca's panties, jerking uncontrollably. He didn't make it to the bathroom, and truthfully, he didn't try, John jerked his cock inside Becca's panties, until he spurted ineffectually in the satin fabric. It felt amazing and pathetic. It was the sweet release of an orgasm, quickly swallowed by shame and remorse. 



"I'm sorry Becca." He panted softly. "I'm sorry Bethany." 



The panties found their way into the trash, but John wished he could burn them. Burn her panties and the memories of her time with DeShawn. John wanted nothing more than to drink himself silly, pass out and pick up Bethany in the morning. 



<em>You can't! AU expects you. His wife and daughter are watching Bethany. I could just pick up Bethany early. No one's going to miss me at this party or whatever it is. Jessica might miss you. Jessica</em>, John thought harshly, <em>she wouldn't want me, I'm fucking pathetic. Jerking off in my wife's, or soon to be ex-wife's panties. Jessica would walk away laughing at me, if she ever found out about Becca, DeShawn and I.</em> 



His sense of obligation won out over his remorse and John changed into a pair of cargo shorts and a polo. He slipped on his running shoes and smiled at himself in the mirror, well, he faked a smile in the mirror. His reflection mocked his effort, but he was pretty sure most people wouldn't know he was a fucking fraud. 



"John." AU greeted him. "Dude, I was starting to wonder if you'd make it." 



"Sorry AU." John replied using his fake smile. "I got a call from my folks." <em>Lying comes so much easier than the truth. Why is that?</em> 



"Well, you're here and that's what counts." He replied patting his friend on the back. "Let's grab a beer." 



John picked a soda, over AU's objections, but he begged off saying he had to drive and given the circumstances in the squadron, AU didn't argue. AU and John a group of guys, laughing and talking about sports, women, beer, etc. Total guy stuff and John started to feel better. He felt better that is, until Rueben showed up, with a few guys from the dorms. No one knew Rueben's friends, so they were pretty much ignored. 



"Hey guys." Rueben greeted everyone with a big smile. "How's it hanging?" 



The conversation didn't exactly die, but Rueben was greeted with a few tepid responses and John took that moment to walk over and get another soda. 



"Hey Rex." He greeted a fellow controller, next to the cooler. The guy next to the cooler was big, not fat big, but big as in he-never-misses-a-day-at-the-gym big. Rex's arms were as thick as John's legs, but he was the nicest, most gentle guy John had ever met. 



"John." Rex shook his hand. "What's going on man?" 



"Not much." John saw movement over Rex's shoulder, red hair, and he motioned to Rex. "Is that Jessica?" 



Rex snorted. "Yea. She's been hanging all over that guy for the last hour. Dude's a real douchebag too, but Jessica seems into him. He's making it point to show her off today, not sure why, but they've been sitting over making out for the last 30 minutes." 



"Wow. I thought she was dumping him?" 



"Yea. Women dude. Why do they always choose the fucking assholes?" 



"No idea." John said distantly and took another look over at Jessica's group. Jessica was sitting on a guy's lap, kissing his neck, with four or five other guys hanging around watching. It was completely out of character for the Jessica, but her date, was obviously loving it and the attention from his flunkies. 



<em>How the fuck do you know? You've only spent a few hours with Jessica. You have no fucking clue what's normal for her.</em> 



John opened his soda, distantly listening to Rex describe his new car, while his mind tried to sort out Jessica's behavior. It was just off. Wrong. 



<em>Maybe I don't know Jessica, but I'm pretty sure Jessica isn't the kind of woman who gets inebriated in the middle of afternoon and makes out with a guy she doesn't like.</em> 



"John." Rex's voice smashed his thoughts. "You ok dude?" 



"Sorry Rex." John shook his head. "It's sweet car dude. Congrats." 



"Thanks man, it's my baby." 



"Where are the restrooms?" 



"Ready for hike?" 



"What?" 



"Well, the restrooms over there." Rex motioned over John's shoulder. "They're closed buddy. You'll have to use the restroom's in that direction, about 100 yards." 



"Great." John replied slowly and Rex slapped him on the shoulder. "There's always a bush, John." 



"Thanks Rex, I think I'll take a hike." 



John started the hike over to the restrooms and his mind wouldn't let go of Jessica. She wasn't exactly a friend, but John still felt he kind of bonded with her this week. She was an excellent controller and seemed like a genuinely nice person, with a good head on her shoulder. Jessica wasn't acting like Jessica today. 



"Ahhh." John said to the bathroom wall and let his monster piss escape. He shook (only two shakes, because three shakes is creepy) and zipped up. 



"Surprise motherfucker." 



Rueben's mocking voice echoed in the bathroom and John spun around, just in time to catch a punch with his left cheekbone. He staggeredd back against the urinal, shaking his head, trying to get past the sucker punch. His hands came up, but he never saw the next punch coming. A strong, solid punch to his solar plexus robbed him of his wind and he gasped loudly, bending over slightly and trying desperately to get enough oxygen in his lungs to defend himself. 



"Dumb fucker." Rueben's voice filled the room. "You think you can sucker punch me? How's this feel?" 



Another punch came from nowhere and impacted the same cheek as the first punch. John could almost feel his eye swell shut, but he managed to get a breath and set his feet, his hands came up and he finally got a look at Rueben. 



Only it wasn't just Rueben. John was facing Rueben and two other guys. 



"Coward." John said quietly. "Three guys Rueben. You come at me from behind with two guys to back your play? You're a fucking coward, no matter how this ends." 



Rueben and his two stooges laughed. "It's going to end Johnny-boy, with you losing teeth. How long will Jessica be into you, when you don't have any fucking teeth? That pretty wife of yours will probably leave you too." 



Becca's name from Rueben's lips, brought pure rage to life inside John. "Motherfucker!" 



John swung and connected solidly with Rueben's jaw. It was a sweet punch and John had the momentary satisfaction of seeing Rueben hit the deck again. <em>Glass jaw!</em> John thought briefly, before Rueben's friends stepped forward. 



John made a valiant effort. He landed punches and kept them off him for a brief moment, but one of this friends landed a solid punch, straight jab, to John's chin. The next thing John knew he was on the floor, getting kicked furiously in the ribs and head. A particularly nasty kick, hit his ribcage and John felt a crack and pain, hot and raw, radiated out of his midsection. Despite the pain, John managed to hook one of his feet behind the ankle, of one of his attackers, and his other leg smashed brutally into the same guy's knee. It cracked audibly in the small bathroom and Rueben's flunky hit the deck, screaming and holding his knee. 



"Wait!" Rueben's voice stopped the kicking. "Wait!" 



Rueben's voice got closer, John lay on the ground, breathing heavily. 



"Hey fucker. Can you hear me?" A hand slapped the back of his head. "Did you see Jessica?" Rueben laughter was ugly. "See how she's all over my boy? Yea, the little red-headed bitch likes ecstasy a lot, makes her real horny. Well he's going to take her to a hotel after we're done with you and we're all going to have a great fucking party." One of the guys with Rueben laughed with him, the other guy was still on the floor, holding his knee and swearing. "We'll take a little video too, just as insurance, you know what I mean? We can't have the little slut crying rape. We'll get her on tape begging for it and then we're home free." 



Fear raced through John as Rueben's words registered in his brain. He started to get up, until he was savagely kicked in the face and he slammed back against the wall, barely conscious. 



"My boys are going to continue to soften you up Johnny-boy, before they join us at the hotel." Rueben's voice was fading. "I'll see you when you get out of the hospital." 



John sensed at least one of the guys turning back to him, when Rueben's startled voice echoed in the bathroom. "AU?" Rueben's voice grew a few octaves. "Hey listen man, this restroom's out of order too dude." 



John glanced up in time to see Rueben's body slam back against the bathroom wall and AU appeared around the corner. It wasn't just AU though, there were three or four other controllers behind him and they all looked pissed. 



"Rueben, you're fucking done." AU's voice was hard, furious and he looked at Rueben's two friends. The one with the hurt knee was leaning against the wall, the fight clearly out of him. "You two, stay right there, you move and we're going to start throwing our own punches." 



"Rex. Grab John, we need to get him to a hospital. You mind getting blood on your new seats?" 



"Hell no AU." He said grimly and reached down to help John to his feet. "My new baby is fast too, so I'll have John at the base hospital in no time." 



"Civilian hospital is closer Rex. Go there. Go now!" 



"Yes sir." 



A familiar voice joined the conversation. "I'll go with Rex, AU, unless you need me to stay." 



"No go." AU said heatedly. "We got these motherfuckers." 



Rex and another controller (John wasn't sure who), helped him to Rex's car and they laid John down in the back. John felt the car spin out and soon they were speeding down the road. 



"Wait!" John's voice was soft. 



"Take it easy John. We'll be there in a second." 



"Rex." John gasped. "Wait!" 



"John, relax buddy." 



"No. Dammit, listen to me." John struggled to get a breath. "We need to help Jessica." 



"What?" 



John took a breath, trying to get as much oxygen in his lungs, despite his broken rib, the pain was unbelievable. "Rueben. He said Jessica was given ecstasy. That's why she's acting that way." 



"Seriously?" 



"Yea. Rex, we need to find her." 



"Rex." The other voice in the car replied. "I saw her leave with her guy and about three other guys, a few minutes before we went to check on John." 



"Shit!" 



"Rueben said they were going to take her to a hotel." John was regaining some strength, not a lot, but he was able to form complete sentences. "Guys, we gotta help her." 



"What about you John?" 



"I'm fine." Rex cast him a doubtful glance in the rearview mirror. John held up a hand and managed to inject some steel in his voice. "Seriously Rex, I'm fine. We gotta find Jessica man." 



"Ok, where do we start?" 



Silence reigned in the car and then John had an idea. "Call AU. Have him ask Rueben which hotel. Tell him about Jessica." 



It worked. It worked like a charm. Apparently Rueben's bravado fled completely, when he was discovered in the restroom and his friends were talking fast too, although they were throwing Reuben under the proverbial bus. The police had been called and it looked bad for Reuben and his two stooges. 



"No-Tel Motel." The other controller hissed. "Know it?" 



"Yep." Rex said tightly. "It's a small town dude and that place is supposed to be off limits." 



"Using that place basically guarantees they won't meet another military member. Sunofabitches, have probably done this before." 



"Fuckin right!" 



"How far?" John asked 



"Five minutes, tops." Rex snarled and punched the accelerator, the new sports car shot down the road and John thought he saw a ghost of a smile on Rex' face. John took several breaths, not deep breaths, but enough oxygen got into his lungs that he felt his head start to clear and he slowly sat up. 



"Why don't you lay back down John?" 



"No. I'm ok. Rib's cracked, I can feel that, but otherwise, I'm just scraped up." 



The road slid quickly by and Rex really pushed his new car. Three minutes later, Rex squealed his tires turning into the parking lot and they immediately saw three guys standing outside a hotel room. They looked conspicuous as hell. 



"That's them." John said quietly. 



Rex drove his car right up to the room, leaping out of the car almost before it stopped and he made right for the three flunkies. The other controller, Mike (John finally put his name and face together) got out of the car as well. No words were exchanged, no trash talking or pushing and shoving. Rex walked up to first one and decked him and the guy dropped like a stone. Rex, without missing a beat, stepped up to the next guy and dropped him the same way. The amount of force Rex put behind his punches, was unbelievable and anyone on the receiving end simply dropped. Mike had his own style and he make a quick feint with his hands, before swiveled his hips and his leg shot up, colliding hard with the last guy's cheekbone. The last guy apparently thought he could talk his way out and he had his hands out and down in a placating motion. Big mistake. Mike's kick was perfectly timed and it spun the last guy around, before he crumpled to the pavement. Mike clearly had some experience, or training, or he was just damn good, because his guy didn't move when he hit the pavement. 



By the time John made it out of the car, limping badly and bent over at the waist, Rex and Mike were banging on the door, yelling and screaming. 



"Open the fuck up." "Jessica!" 



Sirens sounded in the distance, but they grew loud quickly and flashing lights soon illuminated the parking lot, as cop cars pulled in and moved directly over to the room. John, Rex and Mike all got down on the pavement as the cops took over the situation, guns drawn and shouting commands. 



It was a mess. 



Six guys down, at least one of them unconscious, John obviously hurt and barely able to breath and Rex and Mike, trying to force their way into a hotel room. It was ugly and tense for several minutes, while the police tried to separate the good guys from the bad guys. Everyone got put in cuffs, while the cops knocked on the hotel room door, paramedics arrived and examined John first and then strapped him down to a gurney. 

<hr pg="3" />The hotel room finally opened and Jessica's 'boyfriend' exited holding his hands up. No sign of Jessica. The cops, dropped him to his knees, cuffed him and then entered and one came right back out, motioning frantically to the paramedics. They dived into the room, leaving John strapped down to the gurney, and everyone waited, and waited, and waited. A paramedic came out, rushed over to the ambulance and grabbed a firm, rectangular surf board looking-thing and ran back into the hotel room. Finally, the paramedics brought Jessica out, on a firm, medical looking board and moved her right into the ambulance. They shoved John in as well and took off. 



"Is she going to be ok?" John asked the paramedics. No answer. 



The paramedics worked over Jessica with an intensity that clearly indicated her situation was dire. John desperately wanted to ask more questions, but he knew they wouldn't get answered and it may affect Jessica's care. 



John whispered. "Fuck. Jessica, god you have to be ok." 



When they arrived at the hospital, John and Jessica were separated and John was admitted for overnight observation. He didn't expect to sleep a wink, but the doctors must have given him something, because he dropped right off. 



* * * 



"Good morning sunshine." 



Becca opened her eyes, to find DeShawn's gorgeous smile shining at her, his lips touched her cheek and she hugged him briefly. 



"What are you doing up so early?" 



"I've been slacking off, I'm going for a run." He moved off the bed and stripped naked, searching in his suitcase for some workout clothes. Becca sat up and admired his naked body. 



"Any chance I could convince you to come back to bed?" She asked softly and threw back the covers. Becca slept naked, so she laid back and raised her hands above her head seductively. "I'll make it worth your while, handsome." 



DeShawn stopped and stared at Becca. The hungry, happy look returned to his face and Becca felt warmth blossom in her. "Come to bed DeShawn." 



"No!" He forcibly moved his eyes away from Becca, laughing softly. "I need to run baby. It's important." 



"Awww." Becca said playfully. "Am I losing my touch? You don't find me so beautiful anymore?" 



DeShawn slipped on some clothes before coming back to the bed and meeting Becca's eyes. "You're more than beautiful Becca and I will never tire of you." He kissed her. "But my job depends upon me being in good shape. I need to run." 



"Go." Becca shooed him away. "I understand. I expect you to make it up to me later mister." 



"Yes Ma'am. It's only a 10 mile run, so I'll be back soon." 



"10 miles? Soon?" 



Deshawn laughed. "It's relative Becca. I'm in good shape and my average mile time is just under 6 minutes, so hopefully I'll only be an hour." 



"I'll miss you." 



Her boyfriend waved as he left the room. "Miss you too." 



<em>A shower. I need a shower and some coffee!!</em> 



The shower was huge and amazing and Becca took the opportunity to shave her legs and take care of all the girl stuff. The shower even had a good quality shampoo and condition, as well as skin lotion. It was with reluctance that Becca finally shut off the water and stepped out of the shower. Never one to wear a lot of makeup, Becca wandered into the kitchen a few minutes later. 



"Good morning, Becca." Veranda's voice greeted her as she walked into the kitchen. "How'd you sleep last night?" 



Becca smiled at Veranda. "Great. Thank you." 



"Coffee's over there, in case you're a coffee drinker." 



"Yes!" Becca said quickly. "I'm definitely a coffee drinker." 



Veranda laughed at Becca's reaction. "Me too. Sweeteners are by the coffee machine and creamer is in the refrigerator, help yourself." 



The coffee smelled amazing, as Becca poured herself a cup and got it to just the right color. Veranda motioned her over and Becca carefully walked over, sipping her coffee along the way. 



"Oh god, this is sooooo good." 



"Where's DeShawn this morning?" 



"He went for a run." 



"Ahh. He's always been athletic." Veranda nodded and spied Becca over the rim of her coffee cup. "Well, it gives us time to have some girl talk." 



"I'd like that Veranda." 



"Tell me about your child or is it children?" 



"Child." Becca clarified quickly. "I have a baby girl, who is the center of my world." 



"As she should be." Veranda nodded in agreement. "Do you have any pictures of her?" 



"Of course!" Becca walked back to the guest room and retrieved her phone. She got it setup for Veranda and handed her the phone. "Just use your finger to advance the pictures." 



"Awww. She's beautiful." Veranda replied and moved through the pictures, fast at first and then more slowly. "You're very lucky Becca. 



Becca smiled happily as Veranda moved through the pictures. She kept a separate folder of pictures, just of Bethany and another folder held family pictures, of John and Bethany. Veranda handed the phone back to her. 



"Your daughter is absolutely precious and beautiful Becca." 



"Thank you Veranda." 



"You're welcome." Veranda took a sip of her coffee and eyes Becca over the rim of her mug. "So when am I going to meet my grandchild?" 



Silence. Heavy, awkward silence settled over the table and Veranda looked at Becca steadily. There was no anger on Veranda's face, but her expression was serious. Becca met Veranda's eyes and took a deep breath. 



"How did you know?" 



Veranda smiled. "It wasn't hard Becca. It's obvious DeShawn in her father. Besides, my son was different after he got injured and came back from South Padre Island. I suspected something happened to him there, but I was never sure what it was, until now." She put her cup down, reached over and squeezed Becca's hand. "You also have a really bad poker face Becca." 



"I see." Becca said softly. "Very soon, Veranda." Becca answered her question. "DeShawn and I want to bring Bethany to meet her grandparents very soon." 



"Bethany?" Veranda asked. "What a pretty name." 



"Bethany DeShawna." 



Veranda rolled her eyes. "Oh that poor child. You actually gave her the middle name DeShawna?" 



"Yes." Becca took another sip of her coffee. "It was important to me, to make sure DeShawn was a part of her life." 



"Becca, I get the sense that both you and DeShawn are working through some issues. I'm not asking what they are and I don't want to put any pressure on you." She set her coffee on the table. "It's just that Robert and I want to be a part of our grandchild's life." 



"You will be, Veranda." Becca said evenly. "I promise." 



"Thank you." She got up and hugged Becca softly. "Will you send me some pictures of her? Please?" 



Becca's response was immediate. "What's your email address?" 



The ladies hugged again and within minutes, Veranda was gushing over the pictures Becca sent her. "I have a lot more, Veranda, and from now on you will get a copy of any picture I have of Bethany." 



"My grandbaby. She's so beautiful and such a good mix between the two of you." 



"Does DeShawn know?" 



Veranda looked up and smiled at someone over Becca's shoulder. "He does now." 



"Does DeShawn know what?" 



Becca spun in her seat to see DeShawn walking up, wiping the sweat from his face, and smiling at his mother and girlfriend. A shaky smile grew across her face, DeShawn noticed it and cocked his head. 



"Oh shit." He said dramatically. "I'm in trouble aren't I?" 



"Only a little." Veranda winked at her son. "We were just talking about my grandchild." 



DeShawn's jaw fell on the patio and Veranda laughed openly at her son's reaction. She went inside to refill her coffee cup and DeShawn looked at Becca. 



"I'm sorry DeShawn." Becca said softly. "I showed her some pictures of Bethany and she immediately saw the resemblance." 



"I suspected a long time ago, DeShawn, so don't you go blaming Becca." Veranda added as she walked back onto the patio. 



"It was after your vacation to South Padre Island, wasn't it?" 



"Yes ma'am." DeShawn's tone was that of a young boy, responding to an angry parent. "I'm sorry mom, but our situation is a bit complicated right now and I just wanted to wait until things were more settled." 



"I understand baby. Although, I'm sure your job has something to do with it. I know you love your work DeShawn, but maybe it's time you considered what's more important." Veranda replied seriously. "You have a child in the world now and that should take priority over your job." 



"I understand mother." 



"Ok, enough said about that, I know your father told you the same thing. Anyway, Becca has already sent me a bunch of pictures and she promised to bring my grandbaby by to see me and your father." 



"She did, did she?" 



"Yes. Your baby girl is beautiful honey." 



"I agree. Does dad know?" 



"No, but I'm going to tell him." Veranda said firmly. "He deserves to know as well young man." 



"You're right. I'm not arguing momma." 



"Good man." Veranda looked at the young couple. "So, what's on your agenda for today?" 



"We need to head over to Hurlburt. Becca leaves tomorrow and I need to get her to the airport." 



Veranda made a face. "Long drive." 



"Yep, so we actually need to get going." 



"I understand DeShawn." Veranda got up and hugged Becca again. "It's been so nice to meet you Becca. I can't wait to see you again and meet my grandchild." 



"Thank you for having me Veranda and I can't wait to bring Bethany." There was a hitch in Becca's voice. 



"I love you mom." DeShawn hugged his mom tightly. "Thank you for understanding." 



"You're welcome baby." Veranda tightened her arms around her son. "Please think about what your father and I have told you." 



"I will." DeShawn replied. "Say goodbye to dad for me?" 



"Yes. He'll be sorry he missed you, but he wanted to visit a job site today." 



"That's dad all right." 



A few minutes later, DeShawn and Becca waved goodbye to Veranda and drove off. They were both quiet, lost in their own thoughts about the future. Their future. It was almost an hour, before DeShawn looked over at Becca. 



"Are you ok?" 



Becca smiled, nodded and leaned her head on DeShawn's shoulder. "Yes. I just feel bad, that's all." 



"Why?" 



"I should have made it a point to ask about Bethany's grandparents." Becca said softly. "Your mom has missed being a part of Bethany's life and we won't get that time back." 



"Becca, that's my fault, not yours." DeShawn replied softly. "Even if you wanted to, there was no way for you to contact them." 



"I know, but I like to think I could have persuaded you." She said with a smile and ran her hands over his chest. "I can be persuasive, you know." 



Laughter bubbled up from DeShawn. "Oh. I know, Becca." 



"Anyway, I'm going to send your mom every picture and every movie, I have of Bethany." Becca said firmly. "And then I'm going to bring Bethany to meet your parents." 



"What about John?" 



Becca sat back in her seat and looked at DeShawn carefully. "DeShawn, I'd like John to come." 



"Really?" 



"Just hear me out." 



"Ok." 



"If we're going to be together DeShawn, we have to come clean with your parents. They need to know the truth about us, about everything. I won't start our relationship with any secrets." Becca took a deep breath. "John is a fantastic father DeShawn and he's the only father Bethany knows." 



"Hey-." 



Becca put her hands on DeShawn's shoulder. "Wait. Just hear me out. I'm not saying you wouldn't be a good father honey. Not at all. It's just that John has been there from the beginning. He loves Bethany dearly DeShawn and I won't cut him out of her life. It would destroy John and Bethany." Becca took a deep breath. "I've really screwed up my marriage DeShawn and that's my fault, but I won't hurt John any more than is absolutely necessary." 



DeShawn nodded. "I understand Becca." He sighed. "And I agree. John's a good guy, a good man and I could tell he's a great father." A shrug lifted his shoulders. "John and I will find a way to work it out. Man to man. We both care about Bethany, so it'll work out in the end." 



"Thank you honey." Becca kissed his cheek softly. 



"Does this mean you want to be with me?" 



"Do you still want me?" 



"Always and forever, Becca." DeShawn's voice was soft, but serious. "Always and forever." 



"Then yes, DeShawn." Becca stared at him intently. "I want to be with you." 



"YES!!" DeShawn almost drove off the road, he got control of the car and quickly swerved to the side of the road, where he got out and pulled Becca into a hug. "Thank you! Becca, thank you so much. You won't regret it." 



"You're welcome baby." Becca replied happily, returning the hug and loving the feel of DeShawn's body against hers. 



They got back on the road, after kissing passionately, and resumed their drive to Hurburt Field. Becca leaned up against DeShawn, unwilling to be separated from his body. 



"It's not going to be easy." DeShawn said quietly. 



"I know baby." Becca agreed. "I'll talk to John and we'll see how things progress. It won't be easy on any of us, but we'll find a way to make it work." 



"Yes we will." 



The drive was long and they talked excitedly about their future, DeShawn was still undecided about whether to leave the military or not, but he was committed to leaving active operations. A training slot, while not what he really wanted, was the best spot for him now. Becca smiled happily, because the training position was located in San Antonio, Texas, which would put them much closer together. 



"Ta da!" DeShawn replied as he opened the door to his condo. He insisted on carrying Becca over the threshold. 



"Wow." Becca replied. "It's nice." 



"Yea. I saved up for a long time, so that I could afford this and I love living here." He put her down and kissed her softly. "It's paid off, by the way. I'm pretty sure I'll make enough money, when I sell it, to buy us a house." 



"DeShawn." Becca said softly. "One step at a time." She leaned up and kissed him. "I love the way you think though, baby." 



"I told you I'd take care of you and I meant it." He said seriously. 



"Thank you baby." She replied. "I can help you know. I always plan on working DeShawn and John and I have some money saved. I'm sure I'll get some of it, at least, although I think John should get the bulk of it, because of Bethany." 



"One step at a time Becca." He replied with a smile. "But I like the way you think though." 



"What are we doing tonight?" 



"Whatever you want." DeShawn said seriously. "We can go out and party a little. I'm sure one of my friends is probably BBQ'ing tonight, or we can just stay in." 



"I'd like to meet your friends DeShawn." Becca said eagerly. "I want to be a part of your life and that means getting to know the people who are important to you. Besides, I'm sure they have some good stories to tell about you." 



DeShawn looked at Becca for a moment. "So we're staying in then? Just the two of us?" 



Becca punched his chest. "Oh no. Call Marcus, we're hanging out tonight." 



"I'll go get our luggage and be right back. Make yourself at home." 



DeShawn left and Becca flopped down on the couch, she dialed John, hoping to talk to him and see how Bethany was doing. It went straight to voicemail. Becca was sick of leaving voicemails and ended the call. DeShawn entered a second later, carrying their luggage and smiling widely. 



"Why are you so happy?" Becca asked. 



"Because you're in my house." DeShawn said immediately. "I love coming and seeing you. I'll never get tired of it." 



"You better not." 



"Did you get a hold of John?" 



"How'd you know I called John?" 



"Because Becca, you're holding your phone. Who else would you call?" 



"Good point." She smiled at him. "No I got his voicemail." 



"He's picking you up right? At the airport?" 



"Shit!" Becca stood up. "I totally forgot about that. Crap, I've got to get a hold of him." 



Deshawn put his hands over Becca. "Don't worry about it." 



"What? Why?" 



"I called the rental car company and reserved a car for you." DeShawn replied. "You can drive it to Del Rio and turn it in at the little airport in Del Rio. They have a small rental car location at the airport, so you're all set." 



"Deshawn." Becca said softly. "Wow. Thank you." 



"You're welcome." He kissed her. "I told you I'd take care of you." He pulled back and his expression grew serious. "Listen, if something happens and you need to keep the car, just let the rental car people know, ok? Just in case." 



"I will DeShawn." Becca replied. "It won't come to that, but I will, if it does." 



"Cool. Well, I called Marcus and I was right. A few of my buddies are getting together to sear some red meat, swap stories and talk trash. Want to come?" 



"Sure." 



"Ok, but be warned, these are mostly single guys." DeShawn laughed. "They're not housebroken and they can be a bit rowdy." 



"Bring it on." 



"Famous last words." 



* * * 



"God, I hate you." Becca groaned. "Shots. Whose idea was it to do shots?" 



DeShawn laughed for the millionth time. "Yours." 



"No way." 



"Way." He replied shortly. "You said you could keep up. I tried to warn you, but you insisted." 



"It seemed like a good idea at the time." 



"Doesn't it always." DeShawn stopped at the curb. "Here we are." 



"Already?" 



"Yep. I tried to get you to switch your flight, but you insisted on leaving early." 



"I know. I know. Don't rub it in." She groaned. "At least I'll be back in Del Rio by noon." 



"You sure you're ok to drive?" 



"Yes Yes." Becca said. "I'll take two more aspirin, drink some water, and I'll be fine." 



DeShawn and Becca got out of his Mercedes and DeShawn got everything squared away with the luggage. He parked in short-term parking, so he walked with Becca into the terminal and stood with her, while she got her boarding pass. Hand-in-hand, they walked to the security checkpoint, where DeShawn pulled her over to one side. 



"Becca." His voice was soft and Becca could tell he was almost trembling. "I need to tell you something." 



"Yes?" 



He took a deep breath. "I love you." 



Becca leapt into his arms and fortunately, DeShawn caught her, she wrapped her legs around his waist and hugged him tightly, her kisses coated his face, cheek and neck. Finally, he stopped laughing and she stopped kissing him and he lowered her back to her feet. 



"I love you too, DeShawn." 



"Wanted me to say it first?" 



"I didn't want to pressure you, DeShawn. I didn't want to guilt you into a relationship." 



"I understand Becca." He replied softly. "But from now on, can we just tell each other how we feel?" 



"Absolutely." She kissed him. "I love you, DeShawn." 



"I love you too Becca." 



They stared at each other for a long while, before DeShawn finally pushed her towards the security line. "Go. The sooner you leave, the sooner you'll be back." 



"Yes sir." 



* * * 



John came awake slowly, moving his jaws, swallowing and trying to create some moisture in the desert that was his mouth. He raised his head and immediately dropped it back to the pillow, with a low groan. The muscles in his neck and shoulders immediately voiced their displeasure at John getting his ass kicked. 



"Here dude." A voice. Rex's voice managed to pierce the pain. He handed John a cup, with a straw and John sucked greedily on it. "Thirsty huh? Well, getting your ass pummeled and then saving the damsel in distress, will tend to dehydrate you." 



John finished the water and looked at Rex. "Jessica?" 



"Fine." Rex replied shortly. "She almost over-dosed on Ecstasy, thanks to those assholes. Apparently they spiked her soda, before they went to the BBQ and then they gave her more, right before they left. They didn't tell her obviously and she lost consciousness just before they arrived at the hotel. The doc said that she's so petite, that it was a pretty close call." 

<hr pg="4" />"But she'll be fine? No side effects, no long-term damage?" 



"Nope. Doc says she'll be fine." 



"Thank god." 



"We told her you saved her, by the way." 



"So you lied to her then?" 



Rex shook his head at John. "Shut up and deal with being a hero, besides, you wanna know how you're doing or not? Or are you only worried about Jessica?" 



"Knock it off dude." John said quickly. "What is up with me?" 



"Doc says you'll be fine too." Rex motioned at this body. "Concussion, broken ribs and a dislocated shoulder, but you'll be fine." 



Mike walked in and smiled at John. "What's up hero?" 



"Hero?" John asked confused. "Rex just said, all I did was get my ass kicked!" 



"No." Rex clarified. "I said you got your ass pummeled and then you rescued the damsel in distress." 



"Whatever." 



"John." Mike said seriously. "That's the truth. Besides, Rex got to drive his new car like a maniac and I got to knock the shit out of complete asshole. All in all, it was a good day." 



"That's the story John and we're sticking to it." Rex said with a thick southern accent. "Might as well get on board with it. No one's going to believe any different." He looked over at Mike. "That was a pretty sweet kick dude. Where'd you learn to do that?" 



"Tae Kwon Do lessons, since I was about five buddy." 



"No shit?" 



John cleared his throat and interrupted the play by play. "Rueben and his band of buddies?" 



Mike and Rex laughed openly at John's question. "Totally and completely fucked!" Rex said emphatically. "Every one of them is looking at an article 15 or court-martial." Mike added. "Apparently, they'd drugged a few other women, military and civilian, and the security police found some video's that they'd used to coerce the women not to say anything. You'll be collecting your pension, before those fuckers get out of jail." 



"Sweet!" 



"Anyway." Rex continued. "Doc says he's going to release you around noon today, so we'll be back to take you home. Mike already drove your car back to your place and AU and his family are watching your daughter." Mike lifted his fist and John bumped his knuckles. "Rest. Get better. Because we're going to party when you're recovered!" 



John laughed, or tried to laugh, before his ribs reminded him that they were cracked. It quickly became a laugh of pain. 



Rex and Mike started to leave, but Mike turned back at the door way. "John, by the way man." 



"Yea?" 



"You're cell phone is toast dude." Mike shook his head. "It really took a beating and it's basically in pieces now." 



"Great!" 



"Better it, than you buddy. See ya." 



"Take care guys." 



* * * 



"AU?" 



"Yea, who's this?" 



"It's Becca." Her voice was light and friendly, but also curious. "I just got back into town and I can't reach John. Any idea where he is?" 



Silence slid over the connection for a full minute, before AU responded, his voice formal. "Becca, where are you now?" 



"I just got back into town and I'm at our house." She replied. "John and Bethany aren't here and I thought maybe they were hanging out with you." 



"I'll come over Becca." 



"Uh, ok." Becca stuttered. "I'll see you in a minute." 



AU terminated the phone call and saw his wife standing there watching him. "That was Becca wasn't it?" 



"Yea babe." 



"Well, it's sure nice of her to visit." It was a bitter, sarcastic and angry response. "John almost dies and Becca would really like to know where he is, wow, what a great wife. Did she bother to ask about Bethany?" 



"Honey." AU said quietly. "Let them work it out." 



"Fine, but if she hurts John, I will personally kick her ass. I'm serious!" 



"Believe me babe, you're not alone in that sentiment." AU moved toward the door. "I'm going to take her over to the hospital. I don't want her driving over." 



"Go. Bethany's in good hands." 



"Thanks babe." 



"Yea Yea." 



AU lived two blocks away, so barely three minutes had passed, when he pulled into the driveway and walked up the sidewalk. 



Becca met him at the door. "AU, what's going on?" 



"Becca, you mind if we go inside?" 



"No, but now you're scaring me." 



"Well a lot has happened this week and I want you to hear it from me first." 



"Shit! Is John ok?" 



<em>Do you even fucking care?</em> The thought raced across AU's mind and he shook his head as he sat on the couch. 



"Becca, John is in the hospital." AU started and quickly put his hands up. "He's ok, but he sustained a pretty good beating." 



"Oh my god, what happened?" 



"Well, John got into a dispute with Rueben." 



"That creepy asshole!" 



"Yes. John and Rueben got into an altercation at work earlier this week, but it looked like it was over." AU shook his head. "It wasn't over, not by a long shot. We had a BBQ on Friday and Rueben and several of his friends attacked John in the bathroom." 



"Jesus." 



"Unfortunately, Jesus wasn't there and Rueben and his friends managed to crack one of John's ribs, give him a concussion and dislocate his shoulder. It was pretty rough." 



"I don't understand, why would they do that? Why would they attack John?" 



"Well Rueben tried to start a rumor about another Controller and John took exception to it. I didn't see it, but I'm pretty sure John decked Rueben at work." 



"Wow." 



"Anyway." AU continued quickly, he didn't want to discuss Jessica with Becca. "Bethany is at our house and my wife and daughter are watching her. She's welcome to stay as long as you two need our help. I thought I'd take you to the hospital, because John's getting released at noon." 



"Yes, of course." Becca said quickly. "Thank you so much." 



AU nodded shortly. "You're welcome." 



They drove down to the hospital and the ride was quiet. Becca tried to make small talk, but AU wasn't in the mood. He couldn't think of anything to say to Becca that wouldn't end up with him yelling at her. 



Towards the end of ride, Becca looked over at AU. "Have I done something wrong AU?" 



"I'm not sure what you mean Becca." His tone was formal, polite and cold as ice. He didn't look at Becca when he responded, he just kept his eyes on the road. 



"Never mind." 



They both fell silent and the city of Del Rio, TX slid by the windows. 



* * * 



"Hey mister, are you awake?" 



John looked over and saw Jessica standing in his doorway, she was dressed in civilian clothes and looked really good. It was a huge relief to see her alive, conscious and smiling. 



"Yes. How are you? Jessica, you scared the shit out of me." John motioned her into his room and sat up slowly, grimacing in pain. "Get in here, tell me how you're doing." 



A slight blush colored Jessica's cheek and a genuine smile grew on her face, as she walked into the room. "I'm good John." She replied. "I'm still a bit shook up, but otherwise I'm ok. I didn't realize what was going on and the doctor said there was traces of Rohypnol, in my system, so that explains the memory loss." 



"Holy shit! I can't believe those fucking guys." 



"Yea. You can say that again." 



"I'm just glad it ended well, Jessica." 



She looked at John for a long moment, before she stepped forward and kissed his cheek. "Thank you John. No one else would have come to look for me. No one else believed that I was acting weird." 



"You're welcome Jessica." John felt his face get hot. "The whole situation didn't seem right to me, especially since you told me how you felt about that douchebag." 



"I don't think I'll ever be able to repay you or say thank you enough." 



"You've already said it once, Jessica. That's enough." 



Her eyes filled with tears and she wiped them away, laughing softly. "Why are all the good ones taken?" 



"I'm not a good one Jessica." John said softly. "Believe me, if you knew the baggage I came with, you'd run away scr-." 



John was going to continue, but suddenly he couldn't, Jessica stepped forward and kissed him softly, sensually on the lips. It was a nice kiss, an intimate kiss and John enjoyed every second of it. It ended too soon for John, but not soon enough for someone else. 



"Ah-hem." A loud throat-clearing echoed in the room. "What the hell is going on?" 



Becca stood in the doorway, glaring at both of them, her face red and her fists clenched. 



Jessica stepped back calmly and looked at Becca. "I was thanking your husband for saving my life." <em>Bitch!</em> The actual word wasn't spoken, but it was definitely implied. "But I'm sure you know all about it Becca, so it needs no further explanation, right? You know about everything that happened this week, so you shouldn't need an explanation." 



<em>Jessica has a temper</em>, John thought wryly. 



"What the hell is she talking about John?" 



John tried to think of a response, before Jessica beat him to the punch. The two women were staring daggers at each other, neither one willing to back down and John was willing to bet money, it might get physical. He needed to step in or it was going to get ugly. AU poked his head in, behind Becca, and John shook his head slightly. 



He turned to his visitor. "Jessica, will you excuse us?" 



"Are you sure John?" She looked at him for confirmation. 



"What?" Becca asked furiously. "You heard him, fucking leave." 



"Please Jessica." Jessica nodded at John, turned and gave Becca a glare, before she walked out of the room. 



For her part, Becca walked over to John's bed, physically avoiding Jessica and staring at John. "What was she talking about?" 



John explained everything, keeping his part as minimal as possible, and comprehension slowly dawned on Becca's face. She nodded when John was finished and looked towards the door. 



"I should go apologize to Jessica." 



"Yea." John looked at Becca evenly and his voice was cold. "I think you should, Becca." 



Becca's eyes widened at John's comment, because it wasn't what she expected. John was supposed to tell her not to worry about it, but he didn't, and from the expression on her face, it surprised her. She started to say something but the doctor walked in. 



"Ready to go John?" 



"You bet." He looked at Becca. "Why don't you go talk to Jessica and I'll handle the paperwork." 



Becca nodded and left the room. The doctor did one last check and told John to get dressed, which he did carefully, because he was still sore everywhere. A nurse came in, when John was fully dressed, and insisted that he sit in the wheelchair, a ghost of a smile was on her face. John shook his head, muttering about being babied and let her wheel him out into the hallway. 



"SURPRISE!!" 



John jerked in the wheelchair and then grimaced in pain, but started laughing nonetheless. The hallway and waiting room were filled with people. It looked like the entire Air Traffic section was present, even the captain. John endured the pats on the back, fist bumps, smiles and cheers as the nurse wheeled him down the hallway. 



Becca was waiting with the car, as the nurse pushed him into the sunlight. Jessica was one of the last people in line and she mouthed <em>thank you</em> to him as he passed, he nodded and gave her a little smile. The nurse and Becca helped him in the car and the Captain told him to stop by the flight surgeon's office on Tuesday. 



"Until Tuesday John, you take it easy. You hear me?" 



"Yes sir." 



The car ride home was cool, almost cold, and it had nothing to do with the air conditioning. Becca didn't say much and neither did John. They stopped to pick up Bethany, before they went home and Becca received a frosty reception from AU's wife and daughter. 



Bethany was tired from playing all morning, so when they got home, she went right to sleep. John walked into the kitchen and pulled out a beer, he was only on over the counter medication, so he could drink and he desperately needed one now. A beer drinker by choice, today he would have shot tequila to kill the pain. 



Becca met him in the living room. "What did you tell everyone? Why are they looking at me, like I'm trash or something?" 



John sighed internally. <em>Fuck, is this how marriages end?</em> 



"Becca I haven't said anything to anyone. Whenever someone asked, I simply told them you were in Florida with friends." He shrugged. "It was the truth." 



"That's it?" 



"That's it." 



"Oh." Embarrassment flooded Becca's face. "ok." 



John flopped down on the couch and turned on the TV. Truthfully he didn't know what to say to Becca. He'd thought about her all week, but now that she was here, it was like she was a stranger. He took a long pull on the beer. 



"You don't want to talk?" Becca asked as she took a seat on the other end of the couch. 



"Not really, Becca." John replied sincerely. "I'm wiped out, I'm in pain and I really don't have the patience to talk right now." 



"Oh." Becca's eyes dropped to her lap and she sat in silence for several minutes. "I guess I'll go unpack." 



John didn't respond and she slid off the couch and walked into their bedroom. He watched her go and part of him wanted to go after her, wanted to try and work things out. The other part of him wanted to grab her by the hair and throw her the fuck out of his house. 



Thankfully, neither side won. 



Bethany, the center of John's world and the only person who made him truly happy, woke up an hour later and all of them walked down to the park. Bethany was excited to see her mommy and Becca's face lit up when she hugged her daughter. Despite being upset and desperately hurt, John couldn't help smiling at the joy on both of their faces. All of their friends, were convinced Becca wasn't a good mother, but they were wrong. Becca was a great mom, she just made a bad decision this week. They held Bethany's hands and she walked in between them, as they made their way to the park. John's arm was still in a sling, so he had to be careful. 



"Push me daddy." Bethany begged as she waited on the swing. 



John smiled indulgently and gave his daughter a gentle one-armed push. "Yayyy!!" 



Becca sat nearby on the grass, watching her daughter and husband. John felt himself smiling widely, as he pushed his daughter. 



"It's nice to watch you two together." Becca said softly. 



John glanced at Becca, his smile all but disappeared at her comment, but he shrugged. "She's my little girl." 



"Yes she is." 



Bethany quickly tired of the swing, just like she always did, and moved over the huge play set. She loved to run around and crawl through the entire thing. John slid over to a bench, where he could keep an eye on her and watched his daughter. 



"Hey you." Becca said a moment later, sitting on the bench next to him. 



"Hey." 



"Come here often?" 



A ghost of a smile crossed his face. "All the time." 



"John." Becca said softly. "I'm sorry." 



"Sorry for what?" John asked. He wondered what she was actually sorry for, because in his mind the list was fucking long! 



"Sorry for a lot of things, I guess." Becca wiped her eyes. "I'm sorry I caused you so much pain this week. I'm sorry I was so selfish. I'm sorry I wasn't here and wasn't able to help you at all. I'm sorry you got hurt. I'm sorry about how I've treated you and our marriage." 



"Are you sorry for falling in love with DeShawn?" 



"No John." Becca said softly. "I'm not sorry about loving DeShawn. Just like I'm not sorry about loving you or loving Bethany." 



"Well, at least you're being honest with me." He said bitterly. "I couldn't take it, if you lied to me." 



"I wouldn't do that to you John." Becca's voice was soft, sincere and John liked the way it sounded. "I'll always be honest with you." 



"Thank you Becca." He took a breath. "So, you're in love with DeShawn?" 



"Yes John." Becca replied softly. "I think I've been in love with DeShawn for a while now and this week, just brought it into focus." 



"Yea." John drew the word out slowly, before he continued. "I figured as much, when you said you were staying." He watched Bethany for a moment, before he turned to Becca. "He's a good guy, Becca. I'd like to hate him, but I can't, I know he's a good man and you'll be happy with him." 



"DeShawn said the same thing about you John. He likes you as well." 



"Well, I guess that's something." 



They were silent for a long moment, both of them enjoying the sight of their daughter playing and just being happy. It was a golden moment and John cursed silent for not bringing a camera. 



"I won't give up Bethany." He said resolutely. "I'll fight you and DeShawn for her Becca, you should know that right now." His voice choked up, but he managed to finish his thought. "I'm her father. The only father she knows and I won't let her go." 



"John." Becca said softly and he met her eyes. "DeShawn and I agree with you. You'll always be Bethany's father. No one will ever try and take that away from you. I won't allow it." 



"Thank you Becca." 



"You're welcome." It was Becca's turn to take a breath. "I met DeShawn's parents John. They're really nice people and I'd like Bethany to meet them. Will you bring her to meet them? I want them to meet you too." 



"Yes." John replied. "Bethany should meet her grandparents and thank you for asking me to bring her." John sighed, blowing his puffing his cheeks and letting the air out slowly. "Becca, I want you to stay in the dorms. I spoke with the 1<sup>st</sup> Sergeant and he opened up a room. I think it's for the best." 



"John-." 



"Becca, please." John asked. "It doesn't have to be tonight, but I can't live with you. Our marriage is obviously over and you've chosen DeShawn. Fine, I accept it. Let's take the next few days and explain things to Bethany and then we need to separate. We can split everything down the middle and go our separate ways." 



Tears came freely to Becca's face and John felt even worse, he hated to see Becca cry, but he didn't change his mind. As hard as it was, living with Becca and knowing she was eventually going to leave him, would be worse. Much worse. Like pulling his fingernails out each day. 



<em>No. It's for the best. We'll make it work with Bethany, but Becca needs to move out.</em> 



"I think we should just tell people, we're not getting along anymore." John said quietly. "It'll keep them from asking questions about DeShawn. Since we're still married, all of us could get in a lot of trouble, if this got out." 



"I know John. I agree." Becca's voice was shaky. 



"Pizza for dinner tonight?" 



Becca laughed in spite of herself. "Sure." 



"It's not all your fault Becca." John said after a minute and gave her a weak smile. "I'm in for an equal share. I'm pretty sure this all started with me." 



"Maybe, maybe not John." Becca shrugged. "Blame doesn't matter at this point any way. We have a beautiful daughter. Our marriage produced Bethany and she will always be a source of joy for both us." 



Their eyes met and they nodded at each other. Their marriage had never been one of shouts and fights and now that it was over, it would end the same way. Fingers could be pointed in both directions and both sides had merit, so there were no winners, only losers. It sucked. It hurt tremendously for both of them, but arguing and fighting over a lost cause would only create more pain and bitterness. Bethany would be the one who suffered the most and neither John nor Becca wanted that to happen. 



As quietly as it began, John and Becca's marriage ended. 



The pizza was good, a local pizza restaurant, and they watched a movie as a family. Becca called the 1<sup>st</sup> Sergeant and let him know she was going to move into the dorm room. John and Becca resolved to talk to Bethany tomorrow, on Sunday, and explain as much as they could to her, neither one of them was looking forward to that conversation. Becca slept on the couch. 



* * * 



The next month was full of big and painful transitions for Becca and John. Becca moved as much as she could in the dorms and what she couldn't fit in the dorm room, went into storage. John and Bethany stayed in their home and John tried his best to keep Bethany happy and occupied. It wasn't easy for anyone, but Becca came over as much as possible, which was almost every night, and they had dinner and watched a movie. As soon as the movie was over, Becca always left for the dorms. It was a mutual decision. The last thing either of them wanted was mixed messages or an 'accident' to happen where they both ended up in bed again. John honestly didn't expect that to happen, but it was easier if Becca left, than if she stayed. 

<hr pg="5" />The news spread around their squadron like wildfire, but John and Becca stuck to their story. Their marriage just wasn't working out anymore. It was a common tale in the military and everyone was supportive. Typical of divorces though, people ended up choosing sides, and surprisingly John found most people siding with him. It didn't make him feel any better, but he was on the receiving end of a lot of invitations to parties, BBQ's and just about anything that would take his mind off his situation.  



Jessica made it a point to talk to John each day, he wasn't sure if she was attracted to him, or she just wanted to thank him, but he enjoyed her company. They worked together and trained together, but that was it and John was glad she didn't push for more. Jessica was the hottest woman on base, but John couldn't summon the strength to even consider anything more than a professional relationship. His heartbeat, his lungs blew oxygen in and out, and he shuffled through life, but actual living was beyond John, aside from Bethany. 



Becca made a few friends in the dorms and they hung out together. Fortunately, Becca didn't go out to any parties or spend any time in the towns few clubs, because that type of behavior would have had every tongue on base wagging. The few times that John dropped Bethany off, the Becca's dorm friends, looked at him, as though he was something they needed to scrape off their shoes. Fortunately, Becca stood up for him, just as he stood up for her, and Bethany saw both of them as much as possible. 



It would have been easy to color Becca as a bad wife and bad parent. Even at his lowest point though, John couldn't paint Becca with that brush. Despite living apart from John, Becca was a constant presence in Bethany's life and she was as friendly to John as he'd let her be. By all indications, Becca did a fine job of walking the line between being a divorced parent and still being a constant, positive presence in her daughter's life. John wasn't sure if that made things better or worse for him, but he definitely appreciated it for Bethany's sake. 



Another month passed, their divorce became final. Becca stopped by one night, to watch a movie, and she asked John outside to their patio, once Bethany got settled. 



"John." Becca said softly. "My orders have come through and I'm moving to San Antonio. I'll be stationed at Randolph Air Force Base." 



"That's great Becca." John replied. "I know you've been wanting to get out of the dorms." 



"Yes." Becca took a breath. "DeShawn has accepted a training position in San Antonio and we'll be moving in together." 



"That's great Becca." John said sincerely. "I'm happy for you." 



"Thank you John. That means a lot to me and it means a lot to DeShawn. We'd like to have you and Bethany visit, as much as possible." She looked up at him for a moment. "Please John." 



"I don't know Becca." John hesitated. "I'll definitely drop off Bethany, but I'm not sure I'm ready to spend time with you and DeShawn. No offense." He shook his head slowly. "I won't keep Bethany from you at all, Becca, I promise. I'm just not ready to see you and DeShawn together." 



"It's ok John. Just think about it ok?" Her voice was soft and hopeful. "Our door will always be open, to you and to Bethany." 



"I'll give it some thought." He said noncommittally. "When are you leaving?" 



"Thirty days." She said brightly. "DeShawn will be there about sixty-days after me." 



"Well, if you need help moving, just let me know." 



"Thanks John." 



Becca looked up at him for a long moment, searching his eyes for something, before she turned and walked back inside. John stayed outside, he needed a few minutes. Thirty days and Becca would be gone from his life, maybe not forever, but he wouldn't see her very often. John didn't know how to feel, he was still shell-shocked from his divorce and he wasn't ready to consider his feelings. Someday maybe, but not right now. He thought about going to sleep, but it was hopeless. 



<em>No fucking way, I'm sleeping tonight.</em> 



Becca was leaving. Gone. Their marriage well and truly over. He checked on Bethany. <em>Sleeping beauty</em>, John thought affectionately. The micro-brew he bought at the store was calling his name, so he grabbed one and headed back out to the patio. He turned on the patio light, it was low, and sat down on an empty chair. 



As he sat down, he noticed a neighbor, who lived behind him, sitting out as well, she had her baby on her lap and she was rocking her gently, she waved to him and he waved back. Their neighbors were a young couple, with a new baby. Nice people. The lady gave him another smile and went inside with her baby. 



<em>Summertime in West Texas</em>, he thought wryly. <em>It's eleven at night and still 90 degree's.</em> 



John sipped the chilled beer and thought about Becca leaving. When they separated and everyone finally accepted that they were divorcing, John's male friends all had the same advice. 



<em>Burn the bitch! Demand everything. Make it as painful as possible for her.</em> 



He understood those feelings, any guy would, but he couldn't bring himself to treat Becca like an enemy. They were divorcing yes. They weren't enemies. Pain went both ways and causing his ex-wife pain, wouldn't make him feel better. 



<em>Maybe I should have fought harder.</em> 



<em>John, you fight a battle when you have a chance of winning.</em> 



<em>Becca was already in love with DeShawn when you went to Disneyworld. Fighting would have been futile and humiliating, because she still would have chosen DeShawn.</em> 



<em>It's over dude. Focus on Bethany. Life will work itself out.</em> 



The beer was good and John had two more, because he didn't have to be at work the next day, and he enjoyed the solitude. It was a nice night and it slowly cooled off to a frigid 85 degree's. There was a nice breeze, no humidity and no mosquitos. It was a nice night. 



"Anybody home?" A soft female voice washed over him. 



"Back here." John said softly, sitting up. 



<em>Who the hell?</em> 



Jessica walked around the corner. "Hi stranger. Can I join you?" 



<em>Oh! Holy shit!</em> 



"Of course." John stood and smiled at Jessica. "How are you?" 



She walked forward, smiling at him. "I'm fine John. Thank you for asking." 



He stared openly at Jessica for a second, before he did a quick double take and motioned to the empty patio chair. "Please, sit with me. Can I get you anything?" 



"One of those would be great John." 



"Coming right up." John disappeared inside the house, checked quickly on Bethany, and came back out with a micro-brew. "Here you go." 



"Thank you." Jessica replied and took a sip. "How's Bethany?" 



"She's great." A genuine smile split John's face, as he sat down next to Jessica. "She's always great." 



"I saw you at the playground the other day. It's so cute to see you playing with her, she really loves her daddy." 



"She's the center of my world." John said honestly. "She always brings a smile to my face and makes me happy. Truly happy." 



"I can see that John." Jessica replied. 



They looked at each other, looked away, sipped their beer and looked back at each other, smiling awkwardly. Finally, the mix of silence and awkwardness was too much for John. 



"So what are you doing out so late?" 



It was dark, but John sensed a blush on Jessica's face. She took a deep breath. "I have a confession to make John." 



"Oh yea?" 



"Yes. I'm friends with the couple behind you." She motioned to the house that shared a backyard with John. "I might have received a phone call that you were sitting outside on your patio." 



John laughed. "Wow, you've got a whole covert communication network going on. I'm going to stop walking around naked now." 



"Not really, jerk." Jessica threw her bottle cap at John. "It's just that the wife is up late a lot, with her newborn and she called me when she saw you sitting outside. I took a chance and came over." 



"I'm glad you did, Jessica." 



"Me too." She looked at John carefully. "How are you doing John?" 



A big sigh and a shrug of the shoulders, was John's first response. He took a sip of his beer and put his thoughts into words. "I honestly don't know Jessica. I feel like there's this big hole in me and I don't know how to fill it. I feel like a failure, as a man and a husband, but weirdly enough, a success as a father. I'm starting all over again, but now I have a daughter, who I love dearly, and no idea of what's next for me. Things are good at work, but privately I'm still a mess." John sniffed, wiped his eyes and laughed sadly. "God, listen to me. I sound like a bad Doctor Phil episode." 



Jessica stood up, walked a few steps to John's chair and sat down on his lap. She didn't ask permission, she didn't hesitate, she just sat down and put her arm around his shoulder. 



"John." Her voice was soft, gentle and sincere. "There is life after divorce. I'd like to help you see that, if you'll let me." 



"Jessica." John started, stopped and then sighed. "Jessica, you don't want me. You're gorgeous, smart and a fantastic controller. You have a great career in front of you. Believe me, you can do better." 



"Why don't you let me make that decision John?" Jessica asked. "I'll take a good-looking man, with a big heart and a good work-ethic any day of the week. Pretty much every guy my age, is more interested in seeing how much they can drink and what kind of panties I'm wearing." She smiled down at John. "You're different John." 



"Jessica, you don't really know me." 



"I know enough John. Your daughter is absolutely precious and it's obvious you're a fantastic father. I'd love to get to know Bethany." She winked at him. "I'd like to get to know her father better too." 



"Jessica, I-." Her fingers on his lips, stopped him. 



"Shhh." She replaced her fingers with her lips, for a second, before she moved them and kissed him gently. "I've wanted to do that again, ever since that day in the hospital." 



John chuckled. "So did I." 



"Let's do it more often, shall we?" 



"Yes, please." 



Jessica kissed him again, longer and better, much better, and John returned it with vigor. Jessica felt amazing and smelled even better, the light scent of lilac greeted his nose and he inhaled deeply, hugging her to him. 



"Jessica?" 



"Yes." 



"This won't be easy for me, so you'll have to have a lot of patience." 



"I understand John. I think you're worth it." 



"I sincerely hope I am." A smirk graced his face. "Will you go to the movies with me and Bethany tomorrow?" 



"I'd love to, John." 



"Good. It's a date." 



* * * 



"Finally." Becca sighed as she closed the door. The movers had finally finished moving her into a small apartment in San Antonio. DeShawn was joining her in a few weeks and they'd stay here, until they could find a larger place. It was small, but they didn't need a lot of space for now. 



<em>We will soon though, real soon,</em> Becca thought and ran her hands over her stomach. 



Happiness and excitement were the emotions Becca heard in DeShawn's voice when she told him, she was expecting their child. There was no chance that it was John's because Becca hadn't made love to John since her last period, so DeShawn was the father. No question about it. 



<em>Yayy!</em> 



Her belly had grown and it was now obvious she was pregnant, but she didn't care and she couldn't stop rubbing her growing little bundle of joy. She loved the feeling of being pregnant, knowing a baby was growing inside her, and that DeShawn was the father. A strong sense of warmth and contentment washed through her, as she sat down on the couch. 



<em>Finally, I can relax!</em> 



Her cell phone rang. 



<em>Are you kidding me? Oh well, maybe it's DeShawn!</em> 



"Hello." 



"Becca? It's Marcus." 



"Hey big guy." Becca said happily. "How's it going?" 



"Becca, it's not good." Becca had never heard Marcus sound this serious. 



"Oh no. Marcus what's wrong? Is DeShawn ok?" 



"There was an accident Becca." Marcus exhaled loudly into the phone. "A training accident and DeShawn was involved. He-." 



"No." Tears immediately started flowing and Becca's heart dropped into her stomach. "Marcus NO! He's ok right?" Becca pleaded with DeShawn's best friend. "Marcus, please tell me he's ok." 



"We're not sure Becca. He's in intensive care right now." Marcus exhaled into the phone. "The doctors say we'll know more in a few hours." 



"I'm leaving for the airport now Marcus." Becca managed to respond, through her tears. "I'll be there shortly." 



"Text me your flight Becca and I'll pick you up." 



"Call me or text me if his condition changes." 



"I will." 



"Marcus, tell me he'll be ok. I need to hear that from you right now." 



Marcus voice broke as he responded and raw grief poured through the phone at Becca. "It was a bad accident, Becca. There was a problem with his parachute." His voice trailed off. 



<em>Marcus doesn't think he'll make it!</em> 



"I'm on my way Marcus." 



"See you soon Becca." 



<em>DeShawn!</em>

