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By StarbearerTM

Trynia and Paul had spent the last few days in a flurry of activity regarding Terri's baby, and announcing their engagement to their family members. This involved many phone calls, and under Paul's blessing, she had set about choosing a wedding gown in a frenzy. A few faxed and emailed pictures of prospective gowns in Beverly Hills compared to a nice outfitter in a modest bridal shop resulted in her purchase of a wedding gown.

She was sure her mother would be pleased, and the resounding YES over the phone told her the choice was good. Although her mother was a bit concerned about the hefty price tag.

"Mom, I went with the dress I emailed you the picture of."

"Wonderful honey. Did you also go with the tiara design I suggested?"

"Well yes... and the shoes... it's pretty much just like in the catalogue..."

"Terrific! I can't WAIT for the wedding... it's in three months... and I'm glad you did say that Paul was going to speak to Fr. Dovovan about premarital counseling..."

"Well we did talk to him tentatively when we were last out there, Mom," Trynia admitted. "Father does like Paul, but he did give him the third degree about his divorce..."

"Well as long as Paul realizes he can learn from mistakes, and that divorce is NOT an option," her mother said firmly. "And the issue of children..."

"We still haven't decided, but Paul KNOWS bringing them up in faith is something I want..."

"True. You have to consider your children's future..."

"I promise that I'll get an answer soon," Trynia said to her mother. "But I'm off to tell Paul about the dress... I hope he doesn't mind how much I spent today..."

"Dear it only is once in your life. I'm SURE he'll understand," Mrs. Merin advised. "Just be honest with him, and I'm SURE he'll understand. But do it when he's in a good mood. Paul reminds me of your father in some ways... he's a very emotional and passionate man. You have to learn to accommodate that..."

"I am learning mom," Trynia laughed.

"And you're doing very well. Give Paul my love, and please call again soon. Oh, I forgot, I contacted your uncle about catering the reception..."

"Mom, I still want to go with an outdoors wedding... a church..."

"I know sweetie. Dad wasn't thrilled about not using our church, but he's warmed up to the country club..."

"Well considering his buddies do golf there, and my brothers were used to mowing lawns there for so many summers growing up... and the fact that it has a lovely gazebo and garden for weddings..."

"You let me worry about the reception. Do you have anyone in mind you want as a band or entertainment?"

"I need to talk to Paul about it... but Gene has an idea for a band. He was going to fly in some of Paul's old friends to play... as a surprise..."

"Wonderful. I hope it won't be too expensive..."

"It's Gene's wedding present to Paul. Don't worry..."

"All right sweetheart. It is your wedding... but I'm so flattered you picked me to plan it for you," Mrs. Merin said brightly.

"Well you volunteered..." Trynia started.

"I'm MORE then happy to, Noelle," she said. "And you know you don't have to worry about a thing except what you want. Daddy and I will help make sure it happens. Just make sure Paul knows about the flowers and the tuxedos, and his end of the bargain..."

"Mom, he's paying for it. He insisted."

"He doesn't really have to..."

"He does," Trynia said. "He told me that you had to send the bills to him, and he'd reimburse you every red cent... it's his way of helping out..."

"He's quite a gentleman," Mrs. Merin said slowly. "I'll talk to your father about this, and let you know... now run along and let him know about the gown. But make sure he's in a good mood... if not we'll pay for it... your father and me..."

"Thank you mommy," Trynia said. "Love you!"

"Love you too sweetheart.... Take care and stay in touch..."

***

"Honey, I don't care. Whatever you want to spend is fine."

"Uh.... Sweetheart ...it was kind of expensive."

"How much baby?" he asked.

"Uh 2500 dollars..."

"Two thousand? For what? The shoes?"

"No the dress, the shoes, the gloves, the tiara..."

"Those pretty white shoes. They are SO darn expensive," he winked. "OK, so let me get this straight. That's your TOTAL bill for today?"

"Uh... yes..." she said, embarrassed. He took a sip of iced tea a sip of water and looked at her, amused.

"You don't find that expensive?" she asked.

"Sweetie, I think I can handle it. Trust me. My wallet has taken MUCH greater hits."

"Well we're having my uncle cater the reception," she said. "Speaking of wedding plans. He can REALLY use the business...."

Since she appeared to be getting nervous he took her hand and stroked it, "Trynia, look at me. I told you before. Whatever you want to do is fine by me. It's your day. I just ask that you show up on time and that you look gorgeous as always."

"Thanks," she breathed. "But I hope you aren't disappointed if this isn't some humongous Hollywood style wedding... I mean you are inviting your friends."

"Don't forget, this is my second time around the block. I'm not looking for any big social event. I just want us to be married, to throw a fun reception with all the people who matter to us, and to make love repeatedly to my new and hungry wife."

"VERY hungry," she purred.

"My very hungry...very FRUGAL wife...." he purred back, caressing her hand.

"Wait till I tell GENE how much I spent on my dress... He'd be PROUD of me."

"Knowing Gene, he'd say 'Why bother buying a dress when all you are going to do is take it off anyway?" Paul joked, pressing his forehead to hers.

"Well I'll recommend he and TERRI get married in a nudist colony then."

"Speaking of taking off your dress" he winked, "Don't forget to remind me to talk to mom about taking Evan for the honeymoon."

"Oh good... I almost FORGOT!" Trynia groaned.

"Yeah, we have to get Evan's things together. Pammy's coming back today," Paul sighed.

"Let me get Christine and we'll take care of it," Trynia said. "I'll send Evan down..."

"No I want to help," Paul said, reaching for his crutch. Although it had been three weeks, he was still requiring the aid for getting around for major stretches of distance. Holding out his hand to Trynia, she slipped herself under his armpit and braced his other side. He carried the crutch at his side, preferring to lean on her.

By the time two rolled around, Trynia and Christine carried the suitcases to the front door, and put them in a neat row. Evan helped carry a few stuffed animals and set them to the side.

"Is that everything?" Trynia asked.

"I think you packed my WHOLE room!" Evan laughed. "Is it gonna fit in Mommy's car?"

"We'll have to see when your mommy gets here," Trynia said. "Christine, you SURE that's everything..."

"It is," Paul said, leaning on Trynia with his arm around her shoulders to give added support. "Right sport?"

"Right daddy..."

Trynia showed little signs of strain, supporting Paul's weight on one side. Up and down stairs was manageable, and it seemed as if he was relying less on her help now. Today she wore a spaghetti strapped sundress that came past her knees, with a purple cardigan sweater overtop. It had huge pockets and hung to the same length as her dress, her sandals putting her only to her usual height. To help Paul she had to sacrifice less practical footwear so she wouldn't risk twisting her own ankles helping to maneuver him. She reached for something in her pocket and glanced up at Paul.

"I see someone pulling up the driveway," Gina said, joining them in the hallways.

"I don't know if I can face her," Paul whispered.

"Daddy... I don't wanna go," Evan said glancing up at him.

"Now we talked about this," Paul said calmly. "Look I know this stinks, but you gotta be brave..."

"But you and Mommy always fight before I'm ready to go. That's why you send me away to get into the car..." Evan said sadly.

"Sometimes mommies and daddy's fight. But it's not your fault. Mommy and Daddy just don't' get along. And you know this is better then us fighting here under the same roof," said Paul. "So just don't worry about Mommy and me. That's MY job. You just be good and mind what Mommy tells you... now give your old man a hug..."

"G'bye Daddy, I Love you!" Evan said, hugging Paul around his waist tightly. He managed to lean over with help and kiss his son on the cheek, both holding so tightly they didn't want to let go.

"I have to go swim now, to get my legs in shape," Paul said. "So that's why I'm saying goodbye now. And maybe your mommy and daddy won't fight..."

"I hope not," Evan said. "Bye Daddy!"

"Love you sport," Paul said, blowing him a kiss. Christine helped to support him on one side, while he got his crutch and worked his way out to the back again.

"Gina, make sure everything's ready, just in case," Trynia said.

"Yes," Gina nodded, as Trynia patted her pockets. "I'll be right here if you need me."

***

The doorbell rang, and Trynia opened the door. In a tube top and form fitting short skirt Linda stood there, skin golden brown with a new tan. Her hair was bleached and pinned up atop her hair, long neck visible. She stood a bit taller then Trynia, shapely body toned to perfection. The tinted glasses she lifted from her forehead, and regarded Trynia.

"Hello," Trynia smiled pleasantly. "How was your trip? I heard about the hurricane... was it like Gilligan's Island?"

"Oh, it was just a mess. Thank God Frank and I had reservations at a nice hotel, so the trip wasn't a total wash."

"Great, I'm glad you made it back in one piece..." Trynia laughed.

"Trynia, I can't tell you how HAPPY I am to see that you guys were able to take Evan for me..."

"Well it was not too much of a problem, once we got everything settled," Trynia answered carefully. "But he did wonder where his Atlantis tape was..."

"Evan's Atlantis tape was actually a rental from Blockbuster. He conveniently forgets that it had to be returned."

"I figured that," Trynia laughed lightly. "Luckily we found a copy in the local store and added it to his video collection.

"Just so you know, Trynia, I DID try to exhaust all other possibilities with everyone I could think of, but then I thought, "Paul's his dad. He ought to take him."

"Well true, but did you know he was in the hospital?" Trynia asked carefully, not wanting Linda to get off so easily for her actions.

Linda waved her hand a bit, dismissively. She didn't appear to be very interested in this bit of news, "Yes, I had read about that somewhere...."

"Well he had to have hip surgery. He'd been putting it off for a long time, but he had mentioned to most people he thought needed to know..."

"Do you...mind if I come in? I really would like to help Evan pack his things. Sometimes when he goes from Paul's back to my house, somehow some of his things don't exactly make it back with him."

"Well, Christine made sure it was all together," Trynia answered smoothly, and stepped aside to indicate the luggage lined up beside her. "And she has a perfect memory... in case he forgot anything."

"Perfect! Evan thinks the world of her."

"Yes, he does," Trynia nodded. "She's quite a valuable addition to our staff..."

"Oh..." Linda said, and then noticed the flash of light of Trynia's left hand. "New jewelry, I see?"

"Yes," Trynia nodded, her body freezing in sudden fear at the dropping in the temperature between the two.

Linda bit her lip, forcing a smile to her face as she twisted her own wedding ring. Laughing nervously, she said, "Congratulations are in order, I presume...I think..."

"Congratulations to you," Trynia nodded, steadying her own voice. "And thank you."

"Or maybe I SHOULD say, my condolences...." Linda laughed, "Just kidding. Paul is.... Well...a challenge, but you'll find that out."

"I know," Trynia smiled. "Especially the black eyed stare."

"I just can't tell you how nice it is to be married to someone who's around when I need him. Paul is too busy...being PAUL, I suppose."

"Well I'm sure Frank has gotten all he's ever wanted in you," Trynia said casually, though the adrenaline pulsed through her body. "And I have gotten what I wanted in Paul. So it's all's well that ends well."

"Well, it's quite different actually getting to be a real wife, who's needed in her man's life. I have to tell you, I don't miss the Rock Star Wife in La-La Land bit very much."

"I don't either," Trynia laughed. Inwardly she could guess what Linda was doing, egging her into some sort of unfavorable confrontation. Although she could see it coming from a mile away, she didn't want to let this challenge go unanswered.

"But, look. Here I am, going on about this in front of you, and here you have all these challenges ahead..."

"Yes," she nodded. "Especially when it comes to finishing my masters out West here at UCLA Berkley, and pursuing my budding painting career."

"How exciting for you," Linda said with a measured tone, her eyes narrowing. "But I don't have to tell you that Paul is...Paul is..."

"Paul is what?" Trynia asked, forcing a smile to her face.

"Not an easy husband. I know that probably everyone blames me, but it's simply not the case."

"I know," Trynia sighed, meeting Linda's gaze. "You did what you had to do. And what you felt was best for Evan."

"If it weren't for Evan, we would have split a long time ago."

"Better to be apart then together in a bad marriage for the sake of the kid," Trynia nodded. "As long as you're happy, right?"

"Yes, well, he was good for one thing. Paul, that is. Evan and I live very comfortably. Oh, and he was good for something else too, but I'm sure you've already figured that out." she winked.

Trynia laughed, anger rising inside. She willed herself to remain calm, throwing out the most harmless rejoinder, "He keeps me on my toes."

"Hmmm. And OFF your toes and flat on your back," Linda laughed, a twinkle of resentment in those blue eyes. Again Trynia's temper flared, and it was all she could do to suppress the urge to reach out and grab that slender neck and throttle Linda.

Instead Trynia smiled and shrugged, and took a step back. She was sure that Linda could see her jaw muscles clenching. Just then, Evan stepped into view, smiling sweetly, but hiding behind Trynia a bit.

"Mommy's here Evan," Trynia said, pointing to Linda. "Why don't you show her what you made her..."

"Evan! Sweetheart!" Linda flushed, holding out her arms to her son, and getting down on one knee.

"Hi mommy!" he said, walking over to her and holding his arms out reluctantly. Linda folded him in a big hug, stroking his back and kissing him.

"How are you, angel? Mommy and Daddy missed you soooo much," Linda said, voice choked off playfully as if Evan was hugging her too hard.

"Tell Mommy about how we learned to paint..." Trynia said, unable to stop the emphasis on the word.

"Trynia here showed me ALL how to Paint!" Evan laughed, pushing a rolled up picture into Linda's hand.

"Wow! Buddy, that's just wonderful! You are so talented!" Linda said, taking a moment to look at the picture, and put it into her bag. "Did your Old Daddy take good care of you? Did he make sure you ate right and brushed your teeth?"

"Trynia is talented too. She sold a WHOLE bunch of pictures!" Evan said, ignoring what Linda said. Trynia cringed at the words 'old daddy'.

"Oh, I'm sure Miss Trynia has all SORTS of talents," Linda said levelly, with a look Trynia didn't care for.

"And Trynia says she is putting all the picture money away in the bank like I do with my allowance... so she can start a business with Aunt Terri... But not till after she and my daddy are married..." he blurted out. Trynia groaned inwardly, realizing this was NOT A good time to be revealing future plans.

She says crisply, "Well, isn't that wonderful? I'm sure that your old daddy will be happy to help her too."

"And maybe not till she give me a new brother or sister..." Evan said brightly. Trynia flushed with embarrassment, wanting the ground to open up and swallow her up.

"Now, now, Evan," Linda said, grinning rather painfully at Trynia, "Let's not rush them quite yet. Mommy already had this talk with you. Sometimes these things take time."

"I want a younger brother or sister to play with. I hate being the youngest..." Evan pouted.

"Sweetie, you wouldn't believe how much the girls missed you. They talk about you every time we call."

"They pick on me and call me names. Shelly's okay... but Jennie steals my toys..." he muttered.

"Now, that's no way to talk, little man. The girls love you. It just takes some...adjustment time. That's all."

"Give them a chance," Trynia urged Evan.

"And remember, you were going to be Mommy's Big Man and not complain about it, remember?"

"AWW mom!" he groaned, pouting eve more. Trynia winced in sympathy for Linda who must be equally mortified at what her son was saying. Sighing she poked her hands into her pockets.

"Besides...Daddy's 50 now, honey, and well, maybe there won't be any more brothers and sisters."

"Uh Evan why don't you and mommy take your stuff out to the car..." Trynia suggested, and Linda glanced up at her, as if anticipating a reaction. Eduardo strode up from what looked to be a good-sized rental car, a pleasant smile on his face.

"Eduardo, please help Evan get his stuff," Linda called.

"Yes Miss," he nodded, and began to scoop up the suitcases, with a nod to Trynia.

"Is Paul.... here?" Linda asked.

"Uh well he's out back, swimming," Trynia said. "Helps with his hip replacement and all..."

"If you don't mind, I'd really love to see him," Linda said, faking a sweet smile that Trynia knew was trouble in disguise. "I'm sure Evan would like to say goodbye, one more time."

"I'll get him," Trynia says. "Come on in and wait inside here. Evan wait with mommy here..."

"All right Trynia," he said, leaving out the Miss that had been programmed from his start. Linda sent Evan off when Eduardo came back with one of the suitcases. Walking next to him was a man in his early forties, slightly balding and only a bit taller then Linda. Trynia glimpsed him as she returned from her mission, hearing the whispered conversation between what must be her fiancé Frank and Linda. Linda's shoe tapped in anxiety as she whispered, "Wait out in the car Frank dear, I don't know HOW long this is going to take..."

"All right honey, but if you're not out in fifteen minutes I'm coming in after you... Paul's house or not," came the man's voice.

"She's coming back, just go out and wait in the car," Linda hissed anxiously. By the time Trynia stepped into view, Frank was rapidly walking off with the rest of Evan's things.

"Oh, there you are, so where's Paul?" Linda asked.

"He says he would like you to come back and see him," Trynia said slowly.

"Oh, that's no problem. Look, Evan honey, why don't you go jump in the car and pick out a good seat. Daddy's in there and he's waiting for you. I need to go talk to your Old Daddy for just a bit," Linda called to Evan, who was walking out to the car, hand in hand with Eduardo. Trynia glanced past Linda, noticing the man who held his arms out to Evan, and giving him a hug. Evan let the man carry him to the car, and set him inside as Eduardo put the other suitcases in the trunk.

"Wait!' Evan said, rushing back into the house. Running up to Trynia, he held up his arms for a hug.

"Bye," he said. Trynia leaned over and hugged him. Soft lips pressed to her cheek for a moment, and he whispered, "I love you!"

"Goodbye, and go to your new daddy, he's waiting for you," Trynia whispered. He nodded and rushed back out to the car. Linda rested a hand on her hip, biting her lip.

"Just this way," Trynia said, indicating the way to the pool. They strode through the house, past hallways filled with fine paintings and a French style of furniture. Gone were all the Italian styled pieces he had gotten with Linda.

Linda noticed the redecoration, and none of the old furniture she recognized, following Trynia out onto a stoneworked patio. Distant splashing of water lapping against a tile surface told her the pool was just outside. Iron pool furniture ringed the rectangular pool, the object of her consternation sitting in one of the chairs under an umbrella table. Hair moist and plastered to his head, he sat there pulling on a pair of pants and zipping them up, grabbing for a t-shirt to throw over his chest.

Trynia moved to his side, standing in the sunshine. Paul picked up a glass of iced tea to his elbow, and glanced up at Linda. Sunglasses hid his dark eyes from her face, and she was glad for the absence of the dark gaze.

Christine stood to one side, in her short maid's outfit, only a slight bit of cleavage showing, blue eyes anxious as she stepped out of Linda's way. Her eyes and mouth opened wide, "Uh... Ms.. Purcell... What a surprise."

"Well.... Well.... Isn't THIS a pleasant surprise? Paul, I suppose this was more important than coming to say goodbye to your son? Typical," Linda said, with a hand on her hip.

"For you information, I already said my good-byes to him, waiting for you," Paul said calmly. "The doctor says I should take it easy... so that's why everything was ready when you showed up."

"And It's rather hard to get up when you had HIP SURGURY, only three weeks ago," Paul added.

"Yes, I can see that. Places to go people to see. That's always the case with you, isn't it?"

"For your information I was HERE the whole three weeks you were gone." Paul answered, his mouth twisting into a frown.

"I see. Well, according to your fiancée' here, she STRONGLY implied that you were back active in the bedroom, so let's just assume you were just not interested in saying goodbye to your son."

"Nothing's further from the TRUTH!" Paul snapped, shaking a finger at her.

"Paul, easy baby,' Trynia whispered, griping his shoulder and giving it a squeeze.

"But ANYWAY, as is always the case when I talk to you.... I digress..." Linda held up a hand.

"What do you want?" Paul asked, steadying the anger in his voice.

"I spoke with my lawyer. I have not received Evan's child support payment since before we left for the honeymoon."

"Oh really?" Paul asked. "Trynia, call Miss Gina and ask her if the check was sent out?"

"Sure Paul," Trynia nodded. "Miss Christine, please find Gina and tell her to come out here..."

Tense minutes passed as Christine rushed off and disappeared into the house.

"Apparently your attorney needs to speak to our attorney..." Paul said levelly. "Considering Evan was not in your custody the past three weeks..."

"Oh, God, now WHAT?" Linda groaned, rolling her eyes. Just then, Gina strode out, undaunted by the acid gaze Linda tossed her. She handed something in a briefcase to Paul, who took it from her.

"He was HERE for the honeymoon, without written prior notice," said Paul, tapping the part of the document. "Two weeks I believe was supposed to be given."

"Paul, this was my VACATION time. If you bother to read the custody agreement, I am entitled to vacation time," Linda snapped, reaching for the custody order Gina had furnished.

"Yes, but TWO WEEKS advance notice should be given," Paul says, angrily. "It's all there in BLACK AND WHITE!"

"This was.... Well...an emergency," Linda fumbled, realizing he had her there.

"So much of an emergency you couldn't CALL Me before taking off, or even BOTHERING to find out if I was having surgery?" Paul snarled, yanking the papers from under Linda's nose. "I guess rushing off to get married in the Bahamas was too big of an emergency..."

"Listen, mister, your health or lack thereof is frankly none of my concern. Somehow, you were feeling FINE, the day you decided to go to bed with me and make the child. Now you step up to the plate and support him, damn it. What would your father say?" Linda yelled, hands on her hips.

"Damn it!" Paul shouted, banging his fist on the table. He grabbed his crutch, pushing up and hauling himself to his feet in a fit of anger, almost knocking the chair over.

Trynia moved between him and Linda, and blocked his way, "Look, just calm down Paul, it's in the past..."

Linda stepped back, because behind her persona, she was still a bit in awe of Paul. He pushed sunglasses off his face and hurled them to the ground, the dark eyes glaring holes through Linda.

"Easy," Trynia said, gripping Paul around the waist. She turned back to Linda, regarding her calmly.

Heaving a deep breath, Linda waked toward them both, "There's one other thing."

"What?" Paul asked, so angry he can hardly see straight.

"I want more child support. I think I am going to petition the court for an increase."

"Really?" Paul asked, trembling in anger. Trynia could feel his muscles tensing against her like a tiger ready to pounce on his prey.

"But I wanted to give you the courtesy of notifying you first," Linda quipped.

"I thought your rich lawyer boyfriend had a lot of money..." he muttered. "I guess 10 mill doesn't last long eh?"

"He is not your financial concern. You are Evan's biological father and you need to take care of him, or perhaps you forgot the results of that little test you took."

"God damn it he IS my concern!" Paul shouted. "How DARE you suggest otherwise! He's my SON damn it! NOTHING WILL CHANGE THAT!"

Linda shook her head, rolling her eyes. Turning her gaze to Trynia she said, "Oh, yes, Paul will INSIST your children are genetically testing, because, well, he just doesn't trust his women."

"Listen to you two," Trynia said with disgust, still supporting Paul.

"Worrying More about MONEY then your own SON! My GOD what's WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?"

'Let's put it this way, Susie Sunshine. If he trusted you fully, he'd assume you wouldn't bed down with another man. Frank would NEVER do that to me."

"Let me explain one thing to you," Trynia said politely, narrowing her gaze.

"And....PAUL.... Maybe it's a good thing you had Evan tested. I mean, there IS that chance...." Linda interrupted her. Again Paul moved but Trynia steppe din his way. She urged him to sit down again, helping him back into the chair, reluctantly.

"I can't believe..." he hissed.

"Easy lover," Trynia whispered back. "Ms. Purcell, you don't know me from Eve, right? Well, before you jump to conclusions about my personal life, may I remind you that it's not your decision to make? My life and my business with Paul are mine alone..."

Linda stepped back; a bit annoyed that the woman was putting her nose into business that wasn't hers. She opened her mouth, but was cut off as Trynia continued, "I didn't ask Evan your dirty secrets, And I don't' CARE what you do with Frank. As long as Evan is fine."

Furious, Linda took a step toward Trynia, blue eyes blazing, as she said, "Let me tell you how life with Paul will be like. He's never home, and when he is, he's moody as hell. And if you don't satisfy his CONSTANT need for affection, you'll start hearing whispers about how he's been seen tonguing this groupie or screwing that one."

"I know that drill, I'm a KISS fan, remember?" Trynia said calmly, hands at her sides. At this, Linda rolled her eyes again.

"Yes, of COURSE, you are, how stupid of me to forget."

"I know what I'm getting into," Trynia answered. She noticed out of the corner of her eye that Paul gripped the side of the table, eyes flaring with rage, as he witness the verbal sparring of ex and fiancée.

"And..... There are those who say he never got over me," Linda said, looking directly at Paul.

"True, but have YOU gotten over him," Trynia asked. "You are very quick to throw your little barbs and slings at him, just to piss him off. That's the mark of a mature person, wouldn't you say?"

"Oh, YES, I should say so," Linda said coldly, twisting her engagement and wedding ring in an exaggerated fashion.

Paul opened his mouth, but stopped when Trynia shook her head no. Pushing away from the table again, he seized his crutch and stood up, turning away. Seeing that she was getting to Paul, Linda pressed her advantage, "When he tells you he'll never cheat, look DEEP in his eyes, because he doesn't know the meaning of the word MONOGOMY."

"I look into his eyes a lot, and yeah it was hard to see that at first, I'll admit," Trynia said, folding arms across her chest. "So what else is new?"

"Just a tip. From one of his ex-wives to someone who will soon be another..." Linda further clarified, eyes locking into Trynia's impassive gaze.

"But then I learned something... Nothing lasts FOREVER... You take what you can get in the moment... and live for today."

At this, Linda laughed, "ESPECIALLY not if you're Paul's woman."

"Paul is the man I love," Trynia answers. "I'll admit the past trend doesn't dictate monogamy, but I also know that people change..."

"How DARE you say that!" Paul exploded at Linda. "You have a lot of nerve coming in here and..."

"What's wrong, Paul? You AFRAID to say what you feel? You certainly are quick to let your little tramp do your battles for you, are you not?"

"God damn it how dare you!" Paul shouted, shaking his fist.

"Paul, no, don't even start," Trynia said with disgust. "Tramp, huh? I'm supposed to be hurt? Am I supposed to run home to my mommy crying and screaming?"

"Well, let's just say I DON'T appreciate my son having to live in a situation.... Such as this," Linda said in cold anger.

"I'm sure you know EVERYTHING about me, don't' you, Ms. Purcell?" Trynia answered, gripping her own self-control.

"Moans of passion, Paul. You think that's a good thing for a small boy to hear?" Linda asked, turning to Paul again. "Your sexual frolics.... Hmm....."

"Is it good to hear his mommy and daddy SCREAMING at each other?" Paul asked without missing a beat. "Because they can't get along? I'd rather have my son hear his parents loving each other then HATING each other."

"I just have...concerns about him staying here." Linda said, finally.

"And it's so hard on a young boy to keep flying him up this frequently. Evan's made quite a few friends at home, and he loves Frank's girls. So, I don't know. Maybe I should discuss this with my lawyer too."

"He loves his grandparents, and he loves me," Paul answered. "And maybe I should call mine. And explain just WHERE you were for 3 weeks..."

"You KNOW where I was," Linda snapped back.

"I have concerns about him staying with YOU, and a drunk ex WIFE in the picture!" Paul shouted.

"Oh! I see! You've been using Evan as a spy to find out about Frank's family. How very cute. Jealousy is unbecoming on you, sweetheart."

"And I suppose it's cool for you to confuse him the way you do?" Paul asked. "With this old daddy new daddy shit?"

"He is NOT confused. On the contrary. I practically have to drag him out here to see you. He much prefers being in Texas with his family and friends."

"Really, why don't you ask HIM that?" Paul says angrily.

"And he loves Frank. No "New Daddy". Evan just calls him "Daddy"," Linda announced triumphantly. A mean gladness sparkled on her face at the crumple of hurt on Paul's face.

"Funny, I seem to recall him calling me Daddy here, and Frank New daddy here," Paul said slowly.

"Funny. You can recall such a ridiculous detail, but yet your mind slips when it's time to mail my child support check."

"And you let your mind slip when you forgot I was having hip surgery!" Paul asked, standing right in front of Linda this time, face only inches from hers.

"No, I did NOT forget. I just didn't care," Linda snorted.

"And I suppose you don't care if your son wondered if you were even coming back at all for him?" Paul asked.

Angrily she gasped, and shook her head in disbelief. Getting right into his face, she shrilled, "Damn it, Stanley Harvey, don't you EVER imply that I am not a fit mother. Who the HELL do you think watched him as you wiggled your ass onstage and galloped all over the country? You? Yeah, RIGHT! Christine over there can testify to who watched him. ME!"

"Mr. Stanley," Christine said helplessly, looking at Paul.

"Leave our staff out of this," Paul snapped.

"And if you test me, you WILL be sorry. I have people.... Friends.... Still in the Kiss camp, and I'm sure I can find someone who will testify to drug and alcohol use on the road. And your constant PHILANDERING!"

"Now you've gone TOO far," Paul hissed.

"Oh for GODS SAKES SHUT UP!" Trynia screams at both of them. "Listen to you like CHILDREN! Don't you CARE WHAT this is doing to EVAN?"

"Evan's in the car!" Linda yelled at Trynia.

"I know, but don't you two even care what this fighting is doing?" Trynia continued. "That's not the immediate point! You made a child together, and now all you can do is bitch and moan... do you know how scared he was that you two were going to fight? HE thinks it's HIS fault thanks to the BOTH of you!"

"As always you have your girlfriend say what you can't, is that what this has come to?" Linda asked, pointing to Trynia. "Besides, Frank and I were possibly looking at some property in the Bahamas. It would be a DARN shame if we just took Evan there."

"Maybe so," Paul said slowly. "But there are laws about violating custody orders."

"Oh, sure there are, but who's to say we won't go someplace out of the arm of the American courts?" Linda said, that gleam of mean triumph in her eyes. Paul's face crumpled, and he turned away.

"So, I guess you two will never be able to put this crap behind you, huh?" Trynia asked, moving between Linda and Paul again.

"Not as long as he's this impossible," Linda snapped at Trynia.

"So let me get this straight, Ms. Purcell. You'll just use Evan to hurt each other till he's old enough to hate you both?"

"I LOVE my son. How DARE you presume otherwise," Linda retorted.

"Can you love your son enough to stop trying to hurt his father?" Trynia asked. "I know you don't like me, but I don't care. But can't you stop for the sake of Evan?"

"This is NOT your business missy," Linda raised her hand.

"Okay, it's not. But you entrusted ME to take care of him. I guess you don't trust me anymore to look after your own son then," Trynia said sadly. "I guess what you said before you left him off wasn't true then?"

Before Linda could say anything further, she heard the sound of someone coming through the house and calling her name, "Linda!"

Suddenly Linda turned, realizing whom it was. She took deep breaths, straightening out the strands of loose blond hair that had come free from her bun. "Frank, I'm back here..."

"Sweetheart, we're waiting. I thought you were right behind us, " he said, then noticed Paul standing with his back to Linda, and looking at the water lapping in the pool. Trynia stood before Linda, arms folded, hair blowing loose in the wind. For a moment, both she and Frank regarded each other, taking in the other's appearance.

"Hello, I don't believe we've met," Frank said, extending his hand to Trynia.

"Hello," Trynia said, shaking the offered hand carefully. "Linda and I were just talking. She was about to leave, weren't you..."

"Yes," Linda said. Frank moved over to her and put a protective arm around his wife. Trynia smiled as politely as she could to him.

"Congratulations on your nuptials," Trynia said.

"Yes, thank you. We had a fabulous time, but we're glad to be back. We didn't quite count on all the aggravation, but well, it was a honeymoon after all."

"Good," Trynia nodded. Paul returned, limping lightly on a crutch as he joined Trynia and the others. He slipped his arm around Trynia's shoulders and leaned his weight on her.

At sight of Paul, Frank tensed noticeably, clinging to Linda for support. Trynia noticed the apparent ill ease of the lawyer around Paul, guessing what he must be thinking.

"Oh, hello... Mr. Stanley," Frank said nervously. "I was uh... just seeing what was holding Linda here up..."

"Our business is concluded," Paul said coldly. "So sorry to delay you Mr. Grady."

"I hope you two have a nice life together," Trynia said diplomatically.

"Yes, we will, won't we, honey?" Frank said, calming down when he noticed Trynia holding tightly to Paul's waist as if trying to hold him back.

"I hear you are a lawyer?" Trynia said.

"I...am. That's how I met Linda," Frank said carefully, mindful of Paul's eyes on him.

"Funny how two people can meet... considering how Linda is an actress and all," Trynia said. "Because you see, I'm a chemist... and I met Paul at a KISS concert."

"Talk about strange coincidence." Frank laughed as good-naturedly as he could. Tension crackled at the staring match between Linda and Paul, who both regarded each other with pensive stares. Both fumed in their silent pain as their respective mates exchanged idle banter.

"I know. I'm mostly through my master's degree when Paul and I met. Someday I hope to go back and finish it part time. But I was thinking how nice it would be to settle down and have a family. I understand you have children yourself..."

"Yes... three girls," Frank said.

"That's nice. I have three brothers," she smiled as sweetly as she could. "Children are very important in a family."

"Yes, they are. My girls mean everything to me," frank nodded. "Linda and they get along so well..."

"Good," Trynia nodded.

"Wonderful. It's great to see a professional woman around Evan, rather than just some mindless bubblehead."

Linda laughed loudly at this, rolling her eyes. Trynia knew what she must be thinking at this exchange.

"Thank you," Trynia smiled. "It's nice to know not all lawyers are after things like chasing ambulances."

"Don't be too fooled, honey. She's still got some bubbles in her," Linda joked meanly.

"Don't we all," Trynia laughed. "But even gasses have to condense and form liquid so they can rain down on the solid earth."

"Trynia is about to complete her masters out here in LA," Paul said diplomatically.

"Glad to hear it. It's lovely out here. I really do miss it." Frank nodded. Linda glared angrily at Paul for butting in. Trynia sensed a spark of sexual energy, in that she is still very attracted to him.

"I trust that you are leaving soon?" Paul asked, looking coldly at Frank. "Don't you have a long way to go?"

Frank glanced at his watch, "Yeah, now that you mention it, we do need to get going to catch our flight, honey. Either that or we spend 4 hours in the airport with a very frustrated Evan."

"Hmmm. You've got a good point, dear." Linda answered, kissing him softly on the lips in full view of Paul.

"Goodbye Frank. Nice meeting you," Trynia said politely, holding out her hand.

"Yes, same to you too," he said, shaking her hand firmly. "Goodbye Mr. Stanley."

"Goodbye," Paul said.

"I'll just go see if Evan's okay in the car... catch up when you can," Frank said.

"I'll be right there honey," Linda called. She turned again to Paul, holding out her hand and saying crisply, "Paul..."

"Goodbye," Paul said firmly, making no move to shake her offered hand. He glanced down at her dispassionately.

Angrily Linda turned to Frank and said, "You see what I have to deal with? He's totally uncooperative."

"Yes, honey. I know you're upset, and we'll get a chance to talk and see where we go from there."

"I'll tell you where we go from here," Linda said. Looking right at Paul she mouthed, "You're going to lose him."

"Shall I have Miss Christine show you two out?" Trynia asked brightly. Glad to do something right, Christine strode up to them.

"Let's go, we'll miss our flight," Frank urged, taking Linda's hand and leading her out quickly, accompanied by an anxious Christine.

Frank stopped for a moment as Linda and Christine disappeared into the house and turned to them again. Paul's hands twisted into a fist behind his back.

"It's been a pleasure,' Frank said.

"Goodbye," Trynia nodded. "Take care of your lovely wife."

He smiled brightly, "Yes, I will, thank you."

A second later he was gone, silence marking his absence.