The Storm

As the next few days passed Lucy began to truly believe her relationship with Gerard could work out. Her initial uneasiness around Bandit had all but disappeared. The little girl had quickly become very dear to Lucy and while spending time with her and often brought back memories of her own little girl those memories had been welcomed, they had been comforting.

She and Gerard had taken Bandit to the zoo and the day had been one Lucy would long remember. It was the small moments, like Bandit reaching for her hand as they walked together, that remained with her. It was the memory of the small kiss Bandit put on her cheek before going to bed that Lucy now treasured.

But time was passing quickly and decisions had to be made. Gerard would be leaving in a few days on his tour. As of yet, no definite plans had been made and while Gerard had tired several times to bring up the subject Lucy had always skirted the issue. She knew it was time they handled this.

Lucy had spent the day with Alicia while the guys had made final preparations for the tour. Now, as the sun was slowly setting she and Gerard were out on the veranda catching up. He would be leaving in three days…it was time.

“So” Lucy started slowly, “I guess I need to start packing tomorrow.” A plane ticket had already been secured that would take her and Sam back home the day after tomorrow.

Gerard looked into her eyes. “You know I wish you weren’t leaving.”

She smiled, “Hey, you’re leaving too.”

“Lucy, tell me you’ll come back for Christmas.” He said softly.

An idea she’d been mulling over in her mind finally was spoken. Unfortunately her words didn’t explain it very well. “I don’t want to come back here for Christmas.”

His shoulders slumped. This was what he’d feared.

Lucy saw his expression so she went on quickly. “Gee, let me explain. I have an idea. Remember when we were watching that Christmas movie with Bandit and she said how much she wished she could have snow for Christmas?”

He nodded holding his breath.

“Well, I was thinking…I know Mikey and Alicia are going to be out of town and that you will have Bandit for Christmas.”

“True.” He said slowly wondering, no hoping, he understood what she was getting at.

Lucy took a deep breath then continued, “I was hoping you and Bandit would spend Christmas with me at my home. I talked to Lisa today and there’s still snow on the ground and with no warm up in sigh so I’m sure we’ll have a white Christmas.” She reached over and took his hand in hers. “But there’s more to this and it’s hard for me to explain.”

His thumb stroked her fingers. “Try.”

She nodded, “I feel I need to finally make peace with my past. You and Bandit have made me feel that way. For so long I couldn’t remember…it was too painful. But now I am remembering and it feels good. I remember all the happy times I had in my home. I want to remember that and while it sounds silly I want to make new, happy memories there. I’ve been thinking about this a lot. I want to go home and put up all my Christmas decorations that have been stored for so long. I want to put lights on the house, have a real Christmas tree” Her eyes were full of excitement. “And I want you and Bandit to be there with me because….” Her voice suddenly trailed off.

“Because, why?”

She smiled, “Because I love you both.”

Gerard felt all the tension in his body fade. He reached over then pulled her onto his lap. “I think this sounds like one hell of a good idea.” He kissed her deeply.

When the kiss ended Lucy asked, “So can this work?”

Gerard thought a minute. “I don’t see why not. I get back from the tour on the 23rd. B and I can fly to Kansas on the 24th. She’ll love the idea I’m sure.” He was now thinking out loud. “I promised Linds I’d get Bandit to her the day after Christmas, out East where she’s spending the holidays, so we could just take her there from your house. You could fly with me.”

Lucy frowned, “I’ll have to make arrangements for Sam.” Suddenly she smiled “But that shouldn’t be hard. Clyde loves Sam so I’m sure he’ll look after her for me.”

Gerard was feeling better than he had all day. He’d feared he and Bandit might possibly be spending Christmas alone but now that wouldn’t be the case. He’d be spending it with the two most important people in his life.

“Gee?” Lucy was staring into his eyes. “Are you really okay with this idea? If you’re not, I understand. If you want to spend Christmas here…”

He shook his head, “I want to spend Christmas with you and B. That’s what I want.”

She had to know, “Do you understand why I want us to spend it in my home?”

While he did he was still slightly troubled. Did this mean she wouldn’t want to eventually live here with him? Could she ever happily leave her home to be with him? For now he pushed those fears aside. “Yeah, I understand. You want to once more fill your home with love and good memories.”

Lucy smiled, “Exactly.” Her mind was racing as she pictured how she wanted things to be. “I even have light up reindeer.”

Her happiness touched him deeply. “Oh, really?”

She nodded, “Yep, oh and a little train that will run around the Christmas tree. Bandit will love it.”

He loved that she was thinking about Bandit. “I’m sure she will.”

“I have so many Christmas decorations packed away.” Her look turned wistful. “Christmas was always such a big deal in my family. I would spend hours decorating the house. Rafe always said…” Her mouth snapped shut.

Gerard understood, “What did he say?”

“When I had everything decorated he’d say it looked like Christmas exploded all over the house.”

Gerard laughed, “Now I can’t wait to see the Christmas explosion.” Rubbing her back he added “Honey, it’s okay to talk about Rafe. It’s okay to remember. He’d want this happiness for you, you have to know that.”

Lucy snuggled up to him laying her head against his chest. “Yes, he would. I do know that. He wanted us to be together.”

That was a fact that still amazed Gerard. “Yeah, he did. So I should start working on getting plane tickets for me and Bandit. I want to get everything done before I leave on tour.”

Lucy moved her head so she could kiss his neck. “You should but…” She left a trail of wet kisses down his throat. “I think there is something else you should do first.”

His body was already reacting to hers. “Oh really? And just want could that be?”

“I was thinking you should definitely make love to me first.” She whispered as her fingers worked on the buttons of his shirt.

“I do like the way you think.” Using his fingers he titled her head up to kiss her lips. “But I really need to take a shower first.”

Lucy frowned, “Can’t wait that long. I’ll just have to shower with you.” She slipped off his lap then held out her hand.

“You are just full of good ideas.” He stood then pulled her into his embrace. They left a trail of clothing across the living room.

_______________________________________________

The days before Lucy was to leave California flew by much too quickly. There had been so many things Gerard had wanted to show Lucy during the trip that time hadn’t permitted. He’d wanted to do this because in his mind he was trying to win her over to the idea of living in California. As of yet he still didn’t know where their relationship was heading. Would she decide to stay in Kansas after the holidays? It had been his dream for a long time that they would live together in his home but that dream was still just a dream. For now he’d give her time and hope she would miss him these next few weeks as much as he knew he’d miss her.

The night before she was to leave they made love passionately. While neither admitted it they both understood it was because they would soon be parted. Long after Lucy fell asleep in his arms Gerard studied her face, tried to memorize every feature while reminding himself that fate had brought them together and some how, some way, their relationship would work.

____________________________________________

“Take a deep breath.” Gerard murmured in Lucy’s ear as he held her tightly in his arms while the hustle and bustle all around them in the busy airport made it difficult to concentrate.

Lucy closed her eyes a moment. “Sorry, but flying makes me nervous.”

It was almost time for her to go and these moments were precious.

“So you’re sure Karl and Lisa will be at the airport to meet you and Sam?”

Lucy forced herself to smile. “Yes, I’m sure. You need to stop worrying.”

“Just wish I’d have had time to fly back with you.” He sighed.

Because he was leaving on tour in the morning that hadn’t been possible and Lucy understood. “Hey, I’ll be okay.” She said with false bravado. She looked deeply into his eyes. “You just promise me to be careful on the tour, okay?”

He grinned, “Honey, I’ve been traveling on tours for over ten years. I’ll be fine.”

Her smile slipped slightly, “Yes, I know.”

Silently he cursed. Bringing up that fact once more pointed out how different their lifestyles were. Could Lucy ever be happy with a man who was gone so often? He pushed that thought from his head. Now was not the time to have negative thoughts.

“What?” Lucy was watching him closely.

He smiled, “I’m just thinking how much I’m going to miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too.” Lucy said softly. “But hey, it’s only for a few weeks and then we’ll be together again.”

Gerard nodded. “And we’ll have the perfect Christmas together.”

“Yes” Lucy smiled, “We will.” She threw her arms around his neck to hug him tightly.

The announcement was made and it was time. Gerard kissed her deeply then walked her to the gate. “Okay don’t forget to call me as soon as you get home.” He’d been relieved when she’d agreed to keep the cell phone he’d given her. It would allow them to stay in touch while he was on tour.

“I will.” She promised. It wasn’t until that moment she realized they had drawn the attention of several people who obviously had recognized Gerard. Self-consciously she took a step away from him.

Gerard had already seen the small group watching them but had hoped Lucy wouldn’t. He smiled into her eyes while pulling her once more into his arms. “I love you.” He said softly into her ear. “Always.”

Lucy hugged him tightly. “Love you too.” She whispered.

As he watched her walk through the gate he tried to remind himself he’d see her in a few weeks. Once she was out of sight he turned to quickly exit the airport.

________________________________________________

Darkness had already fallen as Lucy closed the door after saying goodbye to Lisa and Karl. While she was already missing Gerard it felt good to be home. She turned up the heat, briefly debated wither of not she should start a fire in the stove but decided she was too tired. It wasn’t so much she was physically tired but mentally she felt drained. Walking over to the sofa she took the cell phone out of her pocket. He answered on the second ring.

“Hey, Honey.”

Lucy smiled then admitted, “It’s go good to hear your voice.” That was the honest truth, hearing his voice lifted her heart.

Gerard walked out to the veranda then took a seat. “It’s good to hear your voice too. You have no idea how much I already miss you.”

Lucy giggled, “Bet I do because I already miss you too.”

“How was your flight?”

Lucy slipped off her damp shoes then pulled her feet up under her. “It was okay. But Sam was really glad when we picked her up. I don’t think she enjoyed the flight at all.”

Hearing her name the Lab walked over then jumped up on the sofa. While Lucy had before discouraged this she realized being at Gerard’s had spoiled the puppy so she allowed the action. Absently she stroked Sam’s head.

“I miss Sam too.” Gerard said softly. “House seems awful empty without you two.”

“Are you all packed and ready to leave tomorrow?” She asked changing the subject away from one she wanted to ignore. She knew Gerard had wanted her to stay in California.

“Yeah, I’m ready. I’m just glad this is a short tour. I hate being away for too long.” His voice dropped, “I just keep reminding myself that when it’s over we’ll be together again.”

Lucy looked around her living room already making plans in her head.

“Lucy?” He wondered why she’d grown so quiet.

“Oh sorry.” She turned her attention back to the call. “I was just looking around imagining how it’s all going to look decorated for Christmas.”

He could hear the excitement in her voice. “So when are you going to start decorating?”

Lucy laughed, “Tomorrow. It’s going to take me a long time to dig out all the decorations. But I think I’ll start on the outside of the house first. I just hope all the bulbs are still working.”

“You’re going to string lights on the house?”

“Yep. And I have to get the plastic reindeer from the barn…”

“Honey, why don’t you have someone help you with that?”

Lucy frowned, “What?”

Gerard sighed, “I don’t like the idea of you stringing Christmas lights by yourself.”

“Oh Gee.” Lucy giggled, “Remember you’re talking to the woman who crawls around on the roof by herself. I’m not afraid of heights.”

He tried to reason with her. “Yeah, but there’s still snow on the ground, right?”

“Oh yes, several inches.”

“Then putting a ladder up could be dangerous.”

While she understood his concern was based on love she still wanted him to understand something. “I will be careful. I promise. But I’ll be fine. I’m so excited about doing this. I want everything to be perfect for you and Bandit. I just keep remembering how excited she was when we told her you guys would be spending Christmas here. She can’t wait to go sledding.”

“If you fall off the ladder and break your leg you won’t be able to do that.” He muttered.

Lucy laughed, “You worry too much. I’m not going to break my leg.”

He tried to put his concerns aside. “I sure hope not. I’d hate to think of one of your beautiful legs in a cast. If it was I couldn’t run kisses from your ankle all the way up that leg.”

“Oh” Lucy’s heart began to race. “Mr Way, just what kind of phone call is this?”

“Any kind you want, Honey.” His voice was low and smooth.

For the next hour they spoke often intimately. Finally Lucy was unable to hide a yawn.

“Okay, Sugar. Time for you to get t bed. We both have big days tomorrow.”

Lucy hated to end the call but knew he was right. “So you’re gonna call me after your concert tomorrow night?”

“I’ll call you before then.” He answered. “You will keep your phone with you, right?” In his mind that request helped lessen some of his worries. If she got hurt she’d have a way to summon help.

“Yes, I promise.” Lucy answered. “And I just might send you some photos.” She was still getting the hang of sending photos from the cell phone but had an idea.

Gerard’s voice grew sexy again. “Photos you say? Maybe of those incredible legs? I mean just so I can see they are okay and not in a cast?”

Lucy giggled, “That was not what I had in mind.”

“It’s what I have in mind.” He muttered. Suddenly he had another thought. “Would you send me a pic once you’re in bed?”

“What?”

“I’d like to see you in bed.”

Lucy giggled, “Okay, I suppose I could do that.”

They said their goodnights then Lucy stood. “Okay, Sam.” She said to the puppy. “It’s bed time.” As she expected the dog followed closely on her heels as she walked up the stairs.

“Tomorrow we’ve got a big day. Not only do I want to start on the decorations but I’ve also got to develop the film I took out in LA.” Talking to Sam as if she was speaking to another human had become one of Lucy’s habits. Sam simply wagged her tail.

Gerard was in his study when his phone alerted him to the text. He smiled as he read the words….ARE YOU READY?

SURE ARE. He sent the text then waited. A moment later another text arrived with an attachment. Gerard laughed when he saw she’d taken a picture from the bed that showed the starry ceiling.

NICE BUT I WANT TO SEE MY BEAUTIFUL WOMAN UNDER THE STARS.

Lucy giggled as she read the response.

A few minutes later Gerard opened the next attachment. His face broke into a wide grin as he looked at the picture of Lucy laying on the pillows. Her hair was spread out across the satin and there was a beautiful smile on her face. She looked sexy as hell to him.

His fingers flew as he typed his response. YOU LOOK SO BEAUTIFUL. THANK YOU.

Lucy took another photo then hit send.

This one made Gerard laugh out loud. Now Sam was in the picture too curled up next to Lucy. She’s added the words…TWO OF YOUR GIRLS

He knew he still needed to take care of some business before tomorrow so he sent back…LOVE YOU GIRLS NOW GET SOME SLEEP. TALK TO YOU TOMORROW

Lucy sent LOVE YOU

Gerard replied with LOVE YOU ALWAYS before setting down his phone. As he turned to the computer to pull up his e-mail he kept reminding himself he’d be reunited with Lucy soon. But right now wished with all his heart he was laying in bed holding her in his arms.

_______________________________________________

The next few days passed by quickly. Lucy and Gerard talked several times during the day and he always spoke to her after each show.

Now as Lucy was pulling garland out of a storage box her cell rang. She assumed it would be Gerard but was surprised to see it was Alicia calling.

“Hey girlfriend. How’s Kansas?”

Lucy threw down the tangled garland then moved to the sofa where she sat down. “Cold and snowy. How’s thing out in LA?”

Alicia who was sitting out on her patio smiled, “Nice and sunny.”

“I wouldn’t mind some of that sunshine.” Lucy admitted. “It’s dreary today and I think we’ll get more snow. Oh, I developed the photos I took and yesterday I sent them to Lynn.”

“So how’d they come out?”

“Good, I think. I hope Lynn is pleased.”

“I talked to her yesterday.” Alicia said slowly. “She asked me if you’d be back in LA after the holidays. There’s another building she’d like you to photograph for the Historical Society.”

Lucy laughed “She hasn’t even seen the ones I took. Maybe she won’t like my work.”

“We both know that’s not a possibility. You’re a great photographer. I can’t wait to see the ones you took.”

“Well you’ll be getting a few in the mail.”

Alicia was surprised. “You sent me some?”

“I sent you a few copies of the ones I liked best. Oh and a few pics of Bandit I took too.” She paused, “Uh, I sent duplicates of those. I thought maybe Lindsey would like them.”

“That was thoughtful.” Alicia said with a smile. “I’ll be sure to get them to her.”

“Thanks.”

“So I’m guessing you’ve been keeping in close contact with that brother-in-law of mine?”

Lucy smiled, “Yeah, we’ve been keeping in touch.”

“I already knew that.” Alicia admitted. “Mikey said he can always tell after Gee talks to you because he’s so damn happy.”

Hearing that touched Lucy’s heart. “I’m pretty damn happy when I talk to him too.”

“So….”Alicia still wasn’t sure if she should be bring this up but felt it was best for Lucy to know. “There’s been a few pictures of you and Gee that have been posted on the Net.”

Lucy frowned, “What?”

“Yeah, at the airport when you were leaving for Kansas.”

“Oh”

“Look, I’m telling you this because to be honest one of them is a really beautiful photo of you and Gee hugging.” She went on quickly. “And most of the comments have been really nice. People are realizing how important you are to Gee.”

“I think a lot of that has to do with Lindsey.”

Alicia knew about the interview. “Yeah, maybe some of it. But anyway I just thought I’d tell you. If you’d like I’ll send you link so you can see the picture.”

“Sure.” Lucy answered. “I’d like that. To be honest I’ve been sorta avoiding the Net. The only time I’m on is to check my website.”

“So you haven’t pulled up any videos from the tour?” This surprised Alicia because she often checked out videos. It was always good to see Mikey on stage.

“No” Lucy said softly. “That’s weird isn’t it?”

Alicia believed she understood. “I think you’re still having a hard time dealing with that part of Gee’s life." When Lucy didn’t answer right away she asked, “Am I right?”

“Yeah but that’s silly. I know it’s a big part of his life.”

Wanting to understand completely Alicia said slowly, “But that part of his life still seems foreign to you.”

Lucy sighed, “The video’s you showed me…it was like watching a stranger on stage.”

“But it’s not a stranger, it’s Gee. The guy who’s head over heels in love with you.”

Hearing Alicia’s words brought a smile to Lucy’s face. “I feel the same way about him.”

The two women talked for almost an hour before Alicia finally ended the conversation because she had to meet up with a friend for lunch. She promised she’d call again soon.

Once Lucy disconnected she sat the phone down then slowly walked over to the computer.
“Sam, I’m falling into bad habits again.” She said as she sat down in front of the desk. “I’m trying to hide and avoid.”

Sam sat down next to her chair wondering why her mistress seemed upset.

Lucy took a deep breath then started searching the Web. For hours all decorating came to a halt as she watched video after video of the man she loved. In her heart she knew it was important to embraces this part of his life as it was so important to him. At first watching the videos saddened her. It truly was like watching a stranger but she eventually realized that was only because they’d led such a solitary life together when he’d been in Kansas.

However that part of their life was over and in her heart Lucy knew if they were to continue on, continue to be together, she must let that past go.

Sighing she pushed her chair back from the desk. Sam who’d been sleeping by her feet raised her head questioningly.

“I love him so much.” Lucy said to the dog as she leaned down to pet her head. “So we gotta figure this out.”

Sam jumped to her feet to follow Lucy who once again moved to work on the tangled garland.

Notes