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Love is Patient

Copyright 2011 by Shaina Hawkins Printed by CreateSpace Paperback edition printed in 2013 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews.

Acknowledgements
I would like to thank my father Rochaun Hawkins for his unfailing support and words of encouragement; my mother Diane Hawkins for her awesome time, effort, editing skills, and helpful criticism, and my brother Samuel Hawkins for his awesome ideas. Most of all I wish to thank my father in Heaven, because without him none of this would have been possible.

About the Author


SHAINA GABRIELLE HAWKINS was born and raised in Longview, Texas. She is currently a student and English major at Stephen F. Austin State University. She spends every day soaking in the presence of God and learning more about him from her loving parents. God is her inspiration and she couldn't have written this book or any others without his love, grace, and patience. Visit her Web site: http://gabby4151.wix.com/shainahawkiins

Love is Patient
Shaina Hawkins

Tuesday: June 3 Dear Diary, I received this diary as a birthday present from Mrs. Parker. She thought it would help me to start writing my thoughts and feelings in here as a type of therapy. I suppose she could be correct. Its only been a little over a month since my parents accident and I am still uncomfortable talking about it. Taylor! Telephone! Mrs. Parker yelled up the stairs the day before the accident happened, Its your mom. I jumped off the bed and darted out of Nikkis bedroom almost colliding with Jesse in the process. Sorry, I said apologizing to him as I continued to head down the stairs. My mom and dad were in Georgia at one of my dads company yearly business meetings. As usual they wanted to drag me along, but this year I begged to stay behind with my best friend Nikki instead traveling with them. Mom didnt like the idea of being so far away from me, but dad convinced her that since I was older now he thought I would be okay. She was finally convinced and decided to let me stay if I agreed to obey the rules set by the Parker family and we had daily phone call updates. She called twice a daysometimes three. Maybe she's so protective because I am the only child they have. I didnt mind though because Mom always had an interesting story to tell every time she called me. She would fill me in on the sites they had seen, the food they eaten at the fancy restaurants dad would take her, and how entirely boring the meetings were. Thank you, I said to Mrs. Parker as she handed me the phone. The Parkers did not allow 6

landlines in the upstairs bedrooms so if we wanted to use the phone we had to use the one downstairs in the kitchen. Hi, mom! I said into the receiver. Hey Taylor! How has your day been today? How was school? Mom had asked. School was school as it always is. So, how did your presentation go? Good I hope. Well," I said pausing, I hope you wont be too disappointed in me, but Taylor, mom said with that dont play with me tone in her voice. I made a 95 the highest grade in the class, I said triumphantly. Good for you Taylor, I knew you could do it. I am so proud of you dear. Thanks mom, I said. At that moment I really began to miss my mom and dad so much that I felt a physical ache welling up in my chest. Tears sprang to my eyes but I quickly said, What time are you and dad leaving on Thursday? Well, thats what I called to tell you. Your dad met one of his buddies from college and he said that he was leaving Georgia tomorrow. He wants to check out our restaurant back home so he invited us to fly back to Washington with him in his jet and your dad couldnt refuse. So well be back in Washington tomorrow evening around five hopefully, maybe sooner. You get to ride in a jet! That exciting; it almost makes me wish that I had come along with you. Really? mom asked sarcastically. Almost mom! Almost being the key word here." I said as I laughed and imagined the look on her face. Besides it has been great spending time with Nikki and her family. 7

Thats great, Im glad. I knew Kendra would take good care of you, although after having her cooking for the past few days you probably wont want mine anymore, mom said with laughter in her voice. Well thats possible, but its a good thing dad can cook better than Mrs. Parker, just dont tell her I said that, I whispered into the phone. I heard a commotion in the background and then some muffled talking. Hold on a second Taylor your dad just walked into the room. I heard dads deep baritone voice say into the phone, How is my favorite daughter today? Daddy Im your only daughter! I giggled. This was an ongoing joke between the two of us. Well then how is my only daughter today? Im good father and how are you? Im good now that Ive heard your sweet voice. Your mom and I have missed you on this trip Taylor. From now on no more staying at the Parkers, we miss you too much. Yes sir, I said as I began to tear up once again. We talked for about thirty minutes more. Mom put her cell phone on speaker so they could talk to me together. They talked about their trip and mom told me how dad had tricked her into eating squid. They listened as I talked about my day at school and my time spent with Nikki and her family Okay sweetie its time for us to go. Hopefully well be home by the time you get out of school tomorrow, but if not well see you around five oclock, mom said just as dad started to speak, By the way we have a surprise for you when we get home. Will I like it? I asked. 8

You will love it! dad said in response. That was one of the last times that I ever spoke to my parents. Their jet crashed the next day due to a freak storm incident. They'd called me a few hours before to tell me that they were about to board the jet and that they would be home around five oclock, but little did I know my world was about to be turned upside down. They were killed in the jet crash along with five others. I dont remember a lot of the details surrounding the crash, because I was too devastated. The two people that meant the most to me in the world were suddenly gone from my life forever. God I don't understand why my parents had to die, but because I know you love me I will be patient and trust you. I will always love you Mom and Dad.

Taylor!

Chapter 1
Wake up Taylor, Katie yelled in my ear, YOURE GOING TO BE LATE FOR SCHOOL!! TAYLOR GET UP!! Im up Katie, Im up, I said putting the pillow over my head to block out the sunlight coming in from my window. And thank you for yelling in my ear, I said sarcastically. I didnt know how else to get you up, Ive been trying to wake you up off and on for the past twenty minutes. Really? Yes, see not all of us can sleep in and have our princess beauty rest. I laughed, Im not a princess Katie, but I do need my beauty rest, why dont you give me five more minutes? I cant, were leaving for school in less than twenty minutes and youre not even ready yet. I groaned as I removed the pillow from my face, Twenty minutes? Yes, so get up princess, Katie said laughing. If Im a princess, who should I be, Jasmine, Belle, or Ariel? Im thinking Ariel, I like her. What about Cinderella? Shes a princess. Cinderella? No thanks, everyone wants to be Cinderella and have a fairytale life. But think about it, you could be her, Katie said taking a seat on my bed, Your parents died and now youre living with a completely different family.

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But your parents are not evil, and they are not making me sleep in the attic, neither are you guys. Thats true, Katie said with a sigh, Well maybe Karol and I could be your mice friends? You want to be mice? I asked surprised. Sure itll be fun and then Nikki can be your fairy god-mother, and my mom can be the nice version of the evil step mother. Okay, Im starting to like this version, I said taking my bedcovers off of me. But we need a part for Jesse, let me think. He can be my carriage driver, I said getting out of my bed and slipping on my house shoes, you know the one that has to drive my carriage to the palace. No, thats no fun, Katie said shaking her head. Wait, I know! He can be the prince! Jesse is like my brother, I said surprised at her excitement. I know, but Jesse has to stay part of the family and this is the only way it will work, and its okay because you like Jesse, she said. I do like Jesse, but I dont know how I feel about him being my prince charming. Are you sure he cant be my carriage driver instead? I asked. Ill think about it, but Im not making any promises. Ill run it by Karol first, she said smiling. So I have a question for you? Whats that Ty? Whos my evil step-sister? Dont I need one? I guess so? It could be Jesses ex-girlfriend Jessica. Shes pretty bad, Katie replied. Yeah she is pretty bad, shes worse than the wicked witch of the east. Or was it the west? 11

If we pour water on her will she melt? Katie asked. She might, anyway its time for you to leave so that I can get dressed. Awe, she said dragging her feet to my door, Well are you still going to help me fill my water guns later for school tomorrow? You bet! I said at the same time as Jesse showed up at my door. Can I help you? I asked walking over to close my door. What were you and Katie in there talking about? Jesse asked inquisitively. We were trying to decide which princess I would be if I was a princess. Who did you choose? Jesse asked raising his right eyebrow. Well I wanted to be Ariel because she loves to sing and dance, but Katie thought I fitted the Cinderella story better. You like to sing? How come Ive never heard you sing before? Because I like to keep it a secret, dont tell anyone. Interesting, so which character do I get to play in this little story of hers? I debated for a second whether I should tell him that Katie thought that he should be my prince charming, but I ended up deciding against it. I was thinking you could be my carriage driver, what do you think? Carriage driver huh, do I have to wear one of those ugly suits? Only if you want to, the choice is completely up to you.

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Huh, well youre going to have to let me think about it and then Ill get back to you on that one. I laughed, You do that. After my parents death, I not only became a part of the Parker family, but I also gained a family. Parents, siblings (for the first time), and lifelong friends, it was such a huge blessing upon my life to be accepted into the Parker family. Since Id started living in the Parker house I started treating everybody more like family than I did back when I only came over for milk and cookies after school and hung out until my parents came and picked me up. Mr. and Mrs. Parker once told me that if I ever wanted to I could call them mom and dad. I tried really hard, really I did, I mean the Parkers were the closest thing I had to family in Indiana. But no matter how hard I tried, I couldnt get myself to call them mom and dad. But they understood that and didnt take it to heart. As for Jesse, Nikki, and the twins they were the closest things to siblings I had ever had. After my mom had me her doctor implied that she shouldnt try to have any more kids, because of all of the complications she had when having me, so I wasnt blessed with any brothers or sisters until I moved in with the Parkers. But I treated Jesse and the twins as if they were my brother and sisters. In the same way Nikki doeswell almost. I will, now, Jesse said taking me by the shoulders and leading me towards my bathroom door that was adjoined with bedroom that Nikki and I shared, Would you please hurry and get dressed? You have less than thirteen minutes and I dont want you to be late. 13

I waited for him to let go of my shoulders before I replied, Yes sir, I said saluting him. I watched him laugh and head out my door at the same time that Nikki walked in. I continued to stand by the bathroom door until Nikki came in asking me why I wasnt ready yet. Why arent you ready? Youre by the bathroom and you havent been in yet? Jesse just walked me over here, and told me I need to get ready for school. Hes right about that, Nikki said as she began to put on her sneakers, but why did he have to walk you over to the bathroom door? I think he was trying to imply his need for me to hurry, I said smiling. Yeah right, I dont know what to say about the two of you, Nikki said shaking her head. What? Oh nothing, my lipsare sealed, she said looking back towards the door. What?! Never mind, you have ten minutes so get going. Gone, I said heading towards the bathroom. Nikki, like her sisters are convinced that Jesse likes me, and apparently has for some time now. I on the other hand, am not convinced of this accusation. Jesse treats me the same way he does all his friends that are girls, and his sisters. I have yet to notice a difference. Nikki says that Im blind and that Im afraid to admit that I like him too. Mrs. Parker even says that she notices a little chemistry every now and then between the two of us. I dont see it though. I mean Jesse isnt ugly or anything, hes very attractive, but I see him as more as a brother or friend than anything else. 14

I walked down the stairs and made it into the kitchen in time to see Jesse reaching for the car keys and everyone else putting on their back packs. Nice you made it out in eight minutes, thats a new record, Jesse said checking his watch. Ha-ha, I said. Okay, guys, Jesse said grabbing ten dollars from Mr. Parker, Lets head out.

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Chapter 2
Taylor Heart? my first period Spanish teacher Mr. Anderson called out to the class, Taylor.Taylor! Here! I squeaked. Zoning out again Ty? Class just got started, Nikki said. Sorry, I said to Mr. Anderson before turning around in my chair to face Nikki, I was thinking. About what? My speech, I think Im going to get up in front of the class and forget everything Ive practiced. Yeah I cant wait for that to happen. I bet youll probably take one look at us and puke all over the floor, a voice said from the seat next to me. Oh shut it Jessica, Nikki was saying, No one has time for your sarcastic remarks today, okay? Whatever, Jessica said turning back to face the teacher, But dont be surprised when it happens, she said pointing at her throat and making puking noises. Ignore her, Nikki was saying to me, Youll do fine. Just remember everything that weve been practicing for the past two weeks. Taylor, Mr. Anderson called, you can give your speech now. Okay, I said getting up from my desk and walking towards the front of the room. You have three minutesgo. he said starting the timer on his stopwatch. Hola clase, mi nombre es Taylor Heart, y hoy se habla de lo que podemos hacer para prepararnos 16

mejor para la clase de espaol, I started saying. (Hello class, my name is Taylor Heart, and today we are going to talk about what we can do to better prepare for the Spanish class.) I hated this assignment. I had actually gotten stuck with the worst topic: How can you better prepare for your Spanish class? Uh, by practicing and studying duh. I mean seriously who doesnt know that. But nonetheless I was stuck with the topic and I wasnt allowed to change it. No matter how much I begged, and believe me I begged. En primer lugar usted puede hacer lo que es obvio que es el estudio y la prctica diaria de su vocabulario. Tambin se puede viajar a un pas de habla espaola preferentemente Espaa, donde se habla un espaol correcto, I continued. (First of all you can do the obvious which is the study and practice your vocabulary daily. You can also travel to a Spanish speaking country preferably Spain, where they speak proper Spanish.) What was with Jessica earlier saying that I was going to puke in front of the classroom? I mean thats a total lie I feel completely fine. Wait a secondmaybe I do feel a little sick. No wait, false alarm. Jessica Blake, she has long brunette hair with blonde highlights, hazel eyes, is the head captain of the debate team and not to mention that almost every guy in the senior class would happily date her. She has seen me as a threat since she heard that I moved into the Parker house. Thinking that Jesse and I would get together since were living together now? Yeah right. Y en conclusin, yo tambin quisiera decir que el espaol es un lenguaje sorprendente y todo el mundo debera tener la oportunidad de aprenderlo. 17

Debido a que ms y ms ciudadanos de habla espaola se mud a los Estados Unidos, por lo que su natural que tratamos de aprender espaol para poder comunicarse con ellos. O podran aprender Ingls para comunicarse con nosotros. Pero eso es otra historia completamente diferente. El final, (In conclusion, I would say that Spanish is an amazing language and everyone should have the opportunity to learn. As more and more Spanish speaking citizens moved to the United States, its natural that we want to try and learn to speak Spanish to communicate with them. Or they could learn English to communicate with us. But thats another story altogether. The End), I said concluding my speech and looking at Mr. Anderson. Thank you Taylor for that very informative speech. You may take your seat, Mr. Anderson said writing something down on his grading rubric. I walked back to my seat to find Jessica glaring at me. This was her way of saying that I did better than she expected. Ive learned to take her glares as a compliment. Howd I do? I whispered back to Nikki. Great, not bad at all. Thanks. I didnt talk too fast or anything? Nope, slow and steady, like weve been practicing. For that I think we should celebrate. Milkshakes at Petes today after school? she asked. Definitely! I said turning to face the teacher. I looked over at Jessica who was still glaring, not at me, but at the next student giving their presentation. Yeah today was a good day. Even though I didnt know it then, it was only going to get better. A lot better.

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Chapter 3
So what grade did Mr. Anderson give you, Nikki was asking me, I got a B+ which is actually pretty surprising since Ive been making Cs all year. We had finished our Spanish class for the day and were heading towards our second period Math class with our teacher, Mr. Rite. I got an A- he said I was short by twenty seconds. Go figure. Its okay, Ty youre still making the highest grade in the class, she said no longer looking at me, but down the hallway towards the administration office. Whos the new guy? she said nodding towards the guy walking towards us with Jesse. Hello ladies, Jesse said winking at me, This is Luke Radcliff; he just transferred here from San Diego. Hi Im Taylor and this is Nikki, I said ignoring Jesse and gesturing to Nikki. Hello, Nikki stuttered. Its nice to meet both of you, Luke said smiling at us and looking back to Jesse, Maybe well see one another school around later. You know after Jesse finishes showing me to all of my classes. Of course, I said looking down at my watch, well we have to get to our next class. Dont we Nik? Nik, I said grabbing her by the arm, Are you coming? Yeah, nice to meet you Luke, she said. Butbut, she managed to get out when she could no longer see Luke, Did you see him Ty? He is way cute. Hes perfect for you! 19

Not now Nik. Lets talk about it later? Fine. Well talk about it at lunch and dont think Ill forget about it because I wont. she said staring off. I wouldnt dream of it, I said grabbing my seat and sitting down before Mr. Rite started to call attendance. She didnt forget of course. Nikki and I had arranged our class schedule so that we shared all of the same classes. Through the next two periods all she could talk about was how cute she thought Luke was. Wasnt he cute Ty? Oh Ty I think you should ask him out? What do you think? After about the fourth question I tuned her out. I could only take so much of all the wonderful things that might or might not come with Luke. I dreaded waiting for lunch to come, but two hours later it came. I considered faking sick to get out of going to the cafeteria and listening to Nikki go on and on about Luke. My refuge, however, came right before the bell rang for lunch. Mr. Branson is Taylor Heart in your classroom? the voice over the intercom asked. Yes she is Ms. Davis. Do you need to see her? Yes I need to see her as soon as you can possibly send her. Thank you, Ms. Davis said. I felt eyes boring into me, which is usually what happens when you get called to the office over the intercom. No one ever gets called over the intercom for doing something good, but I never get into trouble so I wondered what they could possibly want me for. Taylor you may go, Mr. Branson said to me, Dont forget to copy the homework off the board. Yes sir, I said getting up from my seat. 20

What do you think they want? Nikki called after me. I turned towards her and shrugged. Then I started to make the long walk towards the principals office.

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Chapter 4
Grandma! I yelled when I saw her sitting in a chair in front of the principal. Taylor keep quiet you are going to interrupt all of the classes that are in process. Grandma the bell is about to ring for lunch, so it doesnt really matter, I said smiling down at her. My grandma was sitting in the principals guest chair regally as a queen would. She was wearing a light blue dress that you would think to have seen in a celebrity magazine and her hair as she wore most of the time was tied up in a bun. Still you should have a little respect for the classes that are in session. Now are you to going to stand there smiling down at me or are you going to give your grandma a hug? Oh Im sorry, I said bending down to give her a hug, Im just surprised to see you here. What are you doing here? After my parents death my dads mom, my grandma, became my overseer. I rarely saw my moms family, because her mother disapproved of my dad and rebuked my mom for wanting to get married to him, so my dads mom insisted that she be my new legal guardian. She wanted me to move to Texas to live with her, but I didnt want to leave Carmel, Indiana because it was my home, my church, school, and close friends were located here. My grandma didnt like the idea of me being so far away without her as my legal guardian to look after me. But, after having a discussion about where I would stay, she decided that as long as I continued to attend church regularly and had a good pastor that I could go to if 22

needed guidance in an area that she would agree to my staying in Indiana with the Parker family. However, she also insisted upon getting regular updates from myself and the Parkers on a weekly basis. Well can not a grandma come up every once in a while to spend some time with her granddaughter? Well of course, a normal grandmother can. But grandma youre not normalso why are you here? My grandma took no offense to this because she knew that she wasnt a normal grandmother. My grandmother is as proper as a queen and shes a millionaire, but tries to keep it a secret from the rest of the world. She owns what I like to call a castle in Patience, Texas; I use to stay at her house every summer and Christmas break before my parents died. Which I guess explains why shes here now; I havent seen her since the two weeks she stayed with me after my parents funeral. My grandpa, her husband, his parents owned over a hundred acres in Texas and when he was in college some people drilled on his fathers land for oil, and they struck liquid gold. After his parents died, his brother and he inherited all of the money and property. He invested the money wisely and after he died he left everything to grandma and my father. I was missing my granddaughter and I thought I would come down here for a visit. Really? I missed you too grandma. But why didnt you call me? You have the number to the Parkers house. Ty, my grandma said sternly, of course I have the number. But I came down her on a business 23

matter that involves you dear. You see Taylor the thing is, umm she said looking back at the principal, Do you think we could have a minute? Oh yes of course, Im so sorry. Take as long as you need, Ms. Quinn said getting up and leaving her office. Now as I was saying Taylor, Mrs. Johnson, you remember her dont you? she asked. I nodded. Mrs. Johnson was the first person I met at grandmas house when I was five. She was in charge of organizing grandmas dinner parties and tea parties. While her husband Mr. Johnson was in charge of attending to the stables and landscaping. Well she has heard that Mr. Cross is going out of town for three weeks to go on some kind of vacation to the Bahamas. Since he wont be there to compete against, I had the brilliant idea of throwing a dinner party while he was gone. Grandma and Mr. Cross have been battling for as long as I can remember to see who could throw the best parties. Mr. Cross always decided to have his parties the same day Grandma had hers, and strangely enough he always won. I believed that the reason Mr. Cross was always so set on having his parties the same day as grandmas was to get her attention, even my dad had agreed. Mr. Cross moved in five years after grandpas death, and that guy has had the biggest crush on my grandma, but she refused to believe in such poppy cock. As far as I know, grandma hasnt thrown a party in the last past five years, because the competition was wreaking havoc on her nerves. She had to hire her own personal private masseuse to help relieve her tension. Thats great grandma and you came all the way to Indiana to tell me this because..? I asked.

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Because Taylor, I have not seen my only granddaughter in over a year and I thought you would want to come down to Texas to take part in my dinner party. What do you say? I couldnt say anything. Grandma was asking me to drop my classes and friends to go dine with a bunch of her old friends. Ummmthanks, but no thanks. Id have to say no grandma, I said pacing back and forth across the room, I mean I cant leave my friends and the Parkers to go dine with your friends. Plus I have school remember, think of all the homework Id be missing and all the days I would have to take off. Its not possible grandma. Im sorry, but I cant. Taylor! Stop pacingplease! You are giving me a headache, she said rubbing her head. I stopped pacing and sat in the chair beside her. Now of course I do not expect you to leave, and drop your classes. I was thinking that since Mr. Cross will be gone for three weeks we could have the party during your Spring break. That is in two weeks if I am not mistaken, correct? she asked proud of herself. Well, yeah. But I promised Nikki and Daniel that Id hang out with them during the break. I cant leave them here while Im in Texas, I said looking at the floor. I do not expect you to, she said looking at me, You can bring some of your friends with you, but not too many of course. I guess there should be a limit somewhere, she said smiling. How about five? Is that enough for you Taylor? she asked raising an eyebrow.

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Seriously grandma?! Thank you so much! I said getting out of my seat to give her another hug. Of course I am serious, she said after Id finished giving her a hug, You know I do not joke. Well that much was true. For as long as I had known my grandma I had never heard her joke about anything. My dad use to say that when he was younger my grandma would never tease with him, because she always said that a joke is nothing but a laughable lie but that always assured him that he could always rely on her to be honest with him. Well when are we leaving? I mean I need to pack and tell Nikki. Oh and I have to ask her parents. What if they say she cant go? No, they wouldnt say that I mean theyre way to cool to say no. Wait, what about the twins? I wonder if the Mr. and Mrs. Parker will let the twins go to Texas with us, I mean they are only ten years old. But theyre not that young, plus I can always watch over them. I guess Ill have to ask. Taylor! Please. You know when you get excited you talk a million miles a minute, and I can never understand a single word you say, grandma said rubbing her temples. Anyway I have already talked this over with the Parkers and they are completely fine with it since it will be a chaperoned party. The twins are allowed to come if they want to, but you and Nikki will be responsible for them. Now, any more questions? grandma asked exhausted. Just one, how did I get so lucky as to have the best grandmother in the entire world, I said hugging her again. She laughed, Now now, please Taylor, she said smiling. I will send my private plane to pick you and your friends up that last Friday of school 26

before the break starts and a chauffeured limousine will bring you straight to my house and we will talk about everything else from there. Understood? Yes maam I understand, I said smiling at her again. Now you head back to the cafeteria for lunch, so that I can finish talking to your principal about how irresponsible it was to let you out of class to come talk to me. I would have been perfectly fine waiting until you got out for lunch. Okay, grandma. Thank you again. I love you so much, I said giving her one last hug and a kiss on the cheek. I love you too sweetie, now get going. You probably want to go and tell all of your friends the good news? You bet. I cant wait to tell Nikki. Shes going to freak!

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Chapter 5
No way! No way! No way! was all Nikki managed to say when I told her of the news later that night. We were in our bedroom talking about the trip to Patience, Texas. Nikki was supposed to be getting ready for her swing dancing club, but she was so excited about Texas that she forgot she was supposed to be getting ready. Way! Nikki isnt it amazing. Think about it, two weeks from now were going to be in Texas. I cant believe this. Its like a dream come true, she said falling down on her bed, and I cant believe you didnt tell me as soon as you found out! Well, I said, I knew if I did you wouldnt be paying attention to anything for the rest of the day. You know Im right. I guess so. But I dont see how you kept it to yourself for six hours. Tell me about it, I said sitting beside her on her bed, I think the only reason I even managed to keep it to myself was because I wrote it down in my journal. Figures, she said snorting, your journal always finds out everything before I do. Thats why the twins love to read it. She was right of course. Back when my parents were alive I never kept a journal. Thats because if I needed to tell someone something I could usually talk about it with my parents or Nikki. But since theyve been gone it has been harder for me to 28

tell Nikki things, thats why Mrs. Parker thought it would be a great idea if I journaled my thoughts and feelings. It was supposed to be like writing a note to my mom and dad. I was actually surprised to see how well her method worked, and now I journal everyday if I could. But no matter what Nikki might say it wasnt easy to keep all of the information of the trip to myself for six hours. After waiting for school to end, I thought Id be able to tell Nikki then. But then I remembered how we were supposed to go to Petes, so that made me have to wait another couple of hours. Jesse, Nikki, and I went to Petes Shakes and Malts after school, where we met up with Nikkis boyfriend Daniel, and Jesse met up with some of his teammates. Nikki then told me all about what happened during the first half of lunch. So since you were completely zoned out during lunch, Nikki had said, Ill fill you in on what Luke said. He was telling us all of the amazing stuff he did back in San Diego. Oh really, I said trying to hide my fake enthusiasm, What did he do in San Diego? Well apparently he was captain of his football team like Jesse, and captain of the debate team, and was up for the Valedictorian rank of his senior class. But it kind of sucks that he had to move all the way out here and give all that up. He surfed on the weekends; he said he was one of the best surfers on the beach. Apparently, if he didnt miss anything else about leaving San Diego to come to Indiana, hed miss the surfing. Why did he come all the way to Indiana anyway? I asked.

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Something about his dad getting transferred out of Cali, so they had no choice but to move here, Jesse said after he had finished off his malt. Why didnt he stay until the school year ended? He said his dad felt like their family were beginning to pull apart so he took the opportunity to move as chance to get them back on course according to him. Hey Ty, Jesse said looking over at my milkshake, are you going to finish your milkshake? Because if notcan I have it? I looked down at my strawberry milkshake. I was the only one who ever drunk strawberry in my group of friends. Jesse, Nikki, and Daniel always had chocolate and the football team usually had either vanilla or chocolate. Sure, I said passing him my milkshake. Ty, whats wrong? You never pass up a chance to drink a strawberry milkshake, are you feeling okay, Nikki asked sincerely worried. Yeah Im fine; I just have a lot on my mind. I wasnt going to mention the Texas trip right there in front of the football team. That would be so rude, theyd probably ask if they were invited or not, and I didnt want to have to tell them no. So, I decided to wait until Nikki was preparing for her swing dance club meeting to tell her the good news. Nikki had become a part of the swing dance club last year when she was a sophomore, she had convinced Daniel to join it with her and he did. The swing dance club held their club meetings every Tuesday night at 7 oclock. It was actually the only thing that Nikki ever looked forward to on Tuesdays. Yeah, I said looking at my reflection in her mirror that adjoined with her desk. Arent you 30

supposed to be getting ready for your swing dance club meeting? Wheres the make- up and that outfit we picked out last night? I suppose I should get ready huh, she said looking at her alarm clock on her dresser, Well what color eye shadow do you think I should wear? Hmmmwell if youre going to wear that green top we picked out last night, then I would go with the dark green. Green huh? she asked looking at her reflection in the mirror. You dont think itll clash with my eyes? Nikki like her brother had inherited green eyes from their dad. Nikki always believed that everything clashed with her green eyes. If it wasnt her green eyes it was her brunette hair, or whatever else she was having trouble with at the moment. Nikki was a size eight, about two sizes smaller than me. Not that it mattered she was always trying to wear my clothes, because of my good taste in clothes or whatever she said. Nikki it looks fine. Do you want me to help with anything? No I got it, so Ty? Who are the five friends you were thinking about taking to Texas? Im coming of course, right? Of course, let me think, I said getting up to sit on my bed, I guess itll be you, Daniel, the twins, and Jesse. Thats five. I was actually really looking forward to this trip. Id have my family and friends with me. I mean I havent asked the twins or Jesse if they wanted to go, but I was sure that theyd say yes. Why would they want to pass up a trip to Texas? Or pass up a trip to ride in a private plane, a limo, and live in a four

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story house? I mean I hadnt actually mentioned the details to anyone yet, but Im sure theyd be thrilled. So how do I look? Nikki said facing me and spinning around. You look fine. Are you sure? Positive, but dont you think you should get downstairs? I think youve kept Daniel waiting long enough. Oh right! I forgot he said he was going to show up ten minutes earlier today, she said blushing. Well after making Daniel wait for fifteen minutes we finally made it downstairs to find him talking about the next football game with Jesse. But they both stopped talking when we walked into the living room. Wow Nikki, you look great, Daniel said grabbing his coat and car keys. You look great too Ty. That whole wearing the same outfit you wore to school look totally works for you, he said laughing. Really, you think, I said spinning around, I was trying out something new, I said smiling back at him. Umm hello, are we going to stand here talking about how great Ty and I look or are we going to go dancing? Nikki asked impatiently. Yeah I guess we better get going, see you guys later, Daniel said following Nikki out the front door. Well? Jesse asked while he was closing the door behind Daniel and Nikki. Well what? I asked walking over to sit on the living room couch. What had you so deep in thought earlier at Petes? I mean it had to have been something pretty 32

big for you to hardly even touch your milkshake, he said teasingly while taking a seat beside me, So spill. I filled him in on everything from my grandma taking me out of class to Nikki and me deciding on whos all coming with us to Texas. Oh, that is big news. Im the Jesse you were implying right? he asked grinning at me. Duh, so what are you doing home on a Tuesday night anyway? No big plans with the boys? I asked. Yeah, but I cancelled. They wanted to watch some chick flick with their girlfriends tonight and I didnt want to be a third wheel. So, I thought Id stay home and watch you and Katie while you play with her water guns, he said looking at me. Sure, I said looking away, but were not going to play with them. Your mom bought some water guns after she picked Katie up from school. We just have to fill them up and check to make sure they work. I paused before looking up, But if you want to help us check them, youre welcome too. Sure sounds fun, he asked looking at me again and this time he held his gaze. If you say so, I said looking back at the television set. So, that new guy Luke hes cool huh? I wouldnt know, I said looking at the channels being changed before me, I never took the time to talk to him. Well hes pretty cool. You could invite him to Texas if you wanted. I cant, for two reasons. One, I dont know him. He could be a rapist or a thief and two, I can only invite five, and I already reached the max, unless youd like to give up your seat? 33

No way! Well then, theres your answer. Oh hey Katie, Jesse said turning away from the TV screen, Are you ready? Yeah, are you helping me and Ty? He looked over at me, If its still okay with Ty? Its fine with me. Yay this will be so much fun, Katie said smiling.

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Chapter 6
Whoa, what do you guys think youre doing with those? Mr. Parker said entering the kitchen. Nikkis dad was a book publisher, so he was always at home unless he had to run an errand and her mom was a part-time nurse at the local hospital and when she wasnt working she was at home too. Were about to fill them up and test them, Katie said smiling. No you dont, not in my kitchen. I wont have you wasting water all over my floor, if you want to fill them up you can use the water hose in the back yard. Butits late out. Its only six thirty; if you hurry you can be finished before the sun sets. Turn the back porch light on just to be sure you have enough light though, and Taylor, grab the bug spray. Yes sir, I said nodding. Yeah, Jesse said with a nudge, We dont want Taylor to come in counting all her mosquito bites like she always does. I dont know what youre talking about. It happens to fascinate me that I can get such a large majority of mosquito bites in such a short time. Sure Ty. Come on guys lets head out before it gets too late. I got the bug spray out of the cabinet Ty, Katie said as she rushed outside. Thanks Katie, I said as I took the spray from her and began to spray my legs and arms. 35

Dont forget your face and neck, Jesse said. Yeah yeah, dont you have some water guns to fill up? I suppose so. Are you going to help, or stand over there and spray yourself? Ha, funny, Im coming. We had nine water guns, and we had finished filling and testing all of the guns in less than twenty minutes. I thought mom said she bought ten? Katie asked looking around I dont know. Why dont you go check in the kitchen to see if we left one, I said. I was watching Katie head back into the kitchen when Jesse whispered, Hey, this one isnt working. Really? I said coming over towards him, Let me see. But no sooner had I reached for it had Jesse press the trigger and squirted me on my legs. Hey! What? I was just having a little fun Ty. Come onwheres your inner kid? My inner kid he asks, I said somewhat to myself as I headed over to the stack of water guns, Ill show him my inner kid. Watch out! Jesse yelled as water started to be squirted in my direction, Oooh right in the stomach. Touchdown! This is not football and youre not scoring. Oh arent I? Nope, I said as I picked up a water gun and started to squirt him. Let the games begin, he said as he returned my squirt.

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It turned into a full-out water gun fight. But I think it only lasted few minutes before Mr. Parker and Katie appeared at the back door. I leave them alone for five minutes and this is what happens, Katie said giggling. Jesse and I stopped our water fight to look over at Katie and Mr. Parker. We looked back at each other before turning to look back at our competition. I know what youre thinking and dont. Were not even armed, Mr. Parker said as his eye began to twitch. Hes right you know Jesse. We cant shoot an unarmed person, I said in laughter. Well then they had better get armed. Five, Jesse said starting a count down. Four, I said as I watched Katie dart off to get a water gun, Three. Come on dad, Katie said as she started to laugh at the anticipation. Two, Jesse said as he prepared his gun and watched Mr. Parker hurry to pick one up of his own. One, we all screamed in unison as water started to fly through the air. Water flew from one direction to the other. Darkness began to hit, but we were so focused on trying not to get wet and to hit our opponents that the little light that came from the porch light was enough to help us in our battle. Jesse hit Mr. Parker and I hit Katie, and back and forth it went on for minutes I could never count. It was the most fun Ive had at the Parker house in a long time, but the fun soon came to an end. So this is how you help Katie get prepared for school tomorrow, Mrs. Parker said coming to the porch area in her work clothes laughing.

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Sorry honey, Mr. Parker said standing straight up and placing the water gun gently on the ground, We were just having a little fun. As I suspected you would or should I say as I suspected they would. I didnt think theyd drag you into this Kyle. They forced me into it, Mr. Parker said as he laughed and pointed at us, they gave me no choice. Lies, Jesse said as he winked over at me and Katie. We looked over at one another before giving Mr. Parker one last squirt. You see? he said flinging the water off of himself, I had to protect myself. Okay sweetie. Well its time for Katie to get ready for bed, and the rest of you need to get cleaned up. Come on guys, Mr. Parker said heading into the house. Where do you think youre going? Mrs. Parker said blocking his way. Into the house? Not soaking wet like that youre not. Wait here while I go get some towels, she said smiling. Ugh, he sighed finding a seat on the concrete. Come on Ty, lets fill these back up again, Jesse said to me. We filled them up as we continued to squirt one another every once in a while. Thats enough kids; just fill them up so we can go inside. Im freezing, Mr. Parker said shaking. Yes sir, we said in unison. Mrs. Parker came back out soon after we had refilled all the water guns. Alright guys come and get your towels. You can leave your shoes out here 38

overnight so theyll dry and leave the water guns out here too. I dont need any water being squirted in the house. Yes maam, Jesse and I said together. Jesse, Ty, let Katie take her bath first then you can go after her, Mrs. Parker said as she led Katie into the house with Mr. Parker following behind, finish drying off though before you come into the house. Yes maam. You got me wet, Jesse said as he began to dry his hair. You got me wet first, so dont start. Details, hey theres something moving, he said pointing to my face. What is it? I asked as I stood still, Get it off. Okay hold on a sec, he said as walked over closer to me and reached for something on my face. Whatwas it? It was a piece of grass Ty. Jesse, I yelled as I hit him on the arm, Dont scare me like that. You made me think it was something important. It was important. It looked like it was moving. Sure it did, I said noticing that he was still extremely close to me. Its true, he said. UmmJesse, I said. Yeah Ty. Wed better go inside. Itll be our turn for the shower soon. Good point, he said looking around, and we dont want you to get eaten up by the mosquitos any longer. 39

Yeah, I said moving away from him and towards the door. Wait, Jesse said moving in front of me to open the door, Ill get that, after you. Thanksyoure such a gentleman, I said teasingly. I try. We walked into the living room, spread out our towels on the carpeted floor and sat on them as Jesse started to flick through the channels. So Ty, I have a question, Jesse said. I might have an answer. Texas? Do you like it there? I love it there. Its so peaceful, you guys will love it! Really? Whats your favorite part about it? UmmI dont really know. I guess Id have to say riding my horse. You have your own horse? Yeah, Jasmine, remind me to introduce the two of you. Rightso have you told the twins yet? Not yet. Ill leave that up to you. Thanks. No problem, its my pleasure to let you do the honors. I wish Spring break was here already. I cant wait to head out to Texas. Me too, I said, but itll be here before we know it. And it was.

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Tuesday: February 16 Dear Diary, Today as I watched Mr. Parker squirt Jesse, Katie, and I with water guns I was brought back to one of my favorite memories I had of my dad a few years back. I was sitting on the couch in our living room watching television when he came in. Hey Taylor, my dad had said. Hi daddy. Whats up? Oh nothing much, he said smiling. What? I asked implying his increasing smile. I just have a question to ask you. Whats that? I asked questionably. Whos Jacob? he asked holding up my cell phone. Daddy! What are you doing with my cell phone?! Give it back! I said reaching for his hand. What if I dont? What are you going to do? Tell your mother. He said holding my cell phone up so that I couldnt reach it. I will and you know it. Now give it back. Go ahead call her, shell be on my side anyway because shes my wife and she loves me more. No she doesnt, I said glaring at him with my arms crossed, She loves me more and plus Im her daughter. So there. Do you want me to go get Mom and ask her who she loves more? Dad asked laughing as he carefully watched me as I chased him around the living room. That sounds like an excellent idea, I said as my dad started to head towards their bedroom.

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It does doesnt it, and then we can ask her if she knows who Jacob is. Daddy! I yelled as I started to rush after him. Uh-oh, my dad said as he changed his direction and started to run around the living room. If you want it, youre going to have to pry it from my hands, he said laughing. Trust me I will, I said as he barely slipped out of my reach. I dont think you will. Youre not as fast as I am. You wanna bet? I chased after him for the next few minutes until we both collapsed on the couch laughing and out of breath. Hah-aha, my dad said still laughing, I love you Taylorand you know its a requirement for me as your dad to give you a hard time right? Of course it is. And I love you to daddy, I said reaching over to give him a hug and taking my cell phone out of his hand. But I do have a question for you? Whats that? Whos Jacob? I asked grinning at him, I dont know anyone named Jacob. Oh you dont? He asked getting off the couch and heading towards his bedroom, Then why is there a Jacob in your phone? I looked in my phone and sure enough he had entered the name Jacob into my phone, with the number 555-0123. Daddy! I called after him, Seriously? What are you looking at me for? he asked as I heard the TV in his room come on. Youre the one

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who has a fake guys number in your phone, he had said laughing. That was definitely one of my favorite memories I had with my dad. Every time Mr. Parker jokes around with us or plays with us in some fashion I am immediately brought back to different memories I had with my dad. Man I miss him.

Taylor!

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Chapter 7
Nikki are you ready? I asked as I zipped up my suitcase. Almost, Im trying to decide between packing my pink swimsuit or my black one, which one do you think? I really dont think it matters Nikki. It was Friday, the day that we were supposed to be leaving for Texas and we were all excited for the trip. Mrs. Parker had agreed to drive us to the airports private landing strip so that we could load the private jet and be on our way. Yes it doesplease help? Go with the pink one, I said. But black is supposed to make you look skinnier, she cried in response. Nikki, I said gesturing to her body, You cant get any skinnier, so just pick one so we can leave already, I said looking around the room to make sure I didnt forget anything. Fine, but if I end up looking fat in this I wont go swimming. Yeah, yeah, I said grabbing my photo album off my dresser and placing it into my backpack. Come lets go! I said placing my backpack on my back and grabbing my suitcase. Well its about time, Jesse said when he saw us coming down the stairs. Dont start, Nikki said. Does everybody have everything they need for the trip? Mrs. Parker asked, Clothes, shoes, socks, cell phone and the charger?

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Yep, I said looking at all the packed bags, I think were good. Well then, lets go, Jesse said grabbing his bags and heading to the Parkers van. The Parkers had rented a passenger van for this occasion, knowing that they would have all seven of us plus Daniel. It was actually a good thing too, since Nikki had packed four suitcases full of luggage. Nikki, Jesse said when he saw all of her bags, You do know that were only going to be gone for a week, not a month right? Ha, Nikki said in reply, funny. Jesse closed the trunk to the van and we were off for the airport. I wish I could say that it was a quiet trip, but Id be lying. Everyone was excited and Nikki talked the entire time, asking me about what we were supposed to be doing and who with. I kept telling her that I didnt know my grandmas agenda for us, but she still refused to stop asking questions. The trip to the airport took about thirty and it was non- stop excitement all the way there. The twins had only been on a plane once so they were looking forward to riding on a private plane. Mrs. Parker kept reminding everyone to be on their best behavior and to please get along. She laid down all the ground rules and assured us that she would not tolerate any foolishness. Finally, after Mrs. Parker had finished talking, I saw Jesse and the twins turn on their iPods and I decided that I should do the same. Nikki had Daniel to keep her company and I really needed time to reflect. This would be the first time that my friends had been to my grandmas house with me and I really wanted them to enjoy their time there. I wanted this to be the perfect Spring Break. Please God, I

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prayed, help me not to be too stressed out and help Grandma to have a perfect dinner party, Amen. Nikki was still talking when we reached the airport. We all kissed Mrs. Parker goodbye and she stood and watched as we boarded the plane. Everyone looked around in wonder as they stepped into the cabin of the plane. It was like a house that flew through the air. The pilot and the stewardess greeted us and showed us where everything was located. The plane was equipped with video games, two DVD players along with DVDs, two large screen HD TVs and free Wi-Fi along with three laptops. Everything a person would need to stay connected to the outside world, even though we were thousands of feet in the air. There was a full kitchen and dining area supplied with food and water along with on board meals, a gorgeous living area and three lavish private rooms in the back. Everyone was so amazed that they were stunned into silence. All except Nikki, who talked more as we boarded the plane than she did back when we were riding in the van. I finally realized that it was a bad case of nerves and this was her way of dealing with everything. But it made the rest of us miserable. Would you shut up already? Jesse yelled at Nikki when we had finished exploring the plane, We get it the plane is big. The plane is nice and expensive. Taylors grandmother is extremely nice for letting us come on the trip with her. Yeah Nikki we got it the first time. Whats the matter with him? Nikki whispered over to me.

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I think hes tired of you talking about how much youre amazed at everything. But its understandable. Most people dont get to travel like this, so enjoy it, I said looking in Jesses direction. Oh well I guess Ill watch a movie. Im sorry, I didnt know, she said with a long sigh. I smiled at her, Im going to go check on Jesse, I said getting up and walking towards Jesses chair. You okay? I am now, he said looking over towards Nikki, how did you get her to be quiet? I told her that we needed some peace and quiet. Jesse I think you were too hard on her. I know shes probably getting on everyones nerves Probably? he said with a raised eyebrow. But, I continued, Shes really excited and a little bit nervous at the same time. Can you be patient with her right now? He looked up at me then as if remembering something. Youre right Ty, Im sorry. I shouldnt have snapped at her like that. He leaned over at that time and reached for my left hand and squeezed it lightly. Thanks for the reminder. Excuse me. He got up from his seat and walked over to Nikki. I saw him sit across from her and heard him speak to her quietly. A few minutes later he gave her a hug and when Nikki looked over at me she had a huge grin on her face. We were instructed to stay in our seats as the plane began to taxi down the runway and prepared for takeoff. Once we were up in the air we were allowed to unbuckle our seatbelts and move around the cabin. Taylor is there anything fun to do on this plane besides watching movies? Katie asked me. 47

Well if you look in the cabinet over by the couch, there should be some board games. Cool, she said getting up to look, hey Karol they have Monopoly and Life. No way, Karol said getting up to look. Hey Taylor you want to play with us? Hmmthat depends. What game are you guys going to play? UmmLife? Karol said looking at the game in her hands. Well then Im in. What about you Jesse? I said looking back at Jesse, Are you going to play with us? Sure, he said grinning, But only if I get to be the blue car. Karol seemed to think this over for a second before replying. Deal, she said finally. So for the next few hours on the plane thats what we did, we played board games. We played Life, Monopoly, Clue, and then when we were getting ready to play Scrabble Nikki and Daniel joined in. After we had finished all the board games in the cabinet I asked the pilot how long we had left. Whatd he say, Nikki asked when I got back. Twenty minutes, I said sitting beside Jesse on the couch, What do you guys want to do until then? We could play one of the board games again, Nikki offered. No, Katie said, Lets play something elselikewait whats that game called? Solitaire? Spades? Tic Tac Toe? Hangman? Karol named off. No, no, its none of those, she sighed, oh well I cant remember the name of it. 48

I know, Nikki offered, I have a great game that we can play. Its one that Ty will love. Really now? What game is that? Would you Rather? Yes! Im in! Great! Nikki said, Ill go first. Lets see. Karol. Would you rathereat a rose or a shoe? Nikki asked. Thats nasty, I said laughing. Is the shoe new or used? Karol asked. Ummits new. And do I have to eat the rose stem? Thorns and everything? Yes you do, so what will it be? Rose I guess. Nice! And youll have rosy breath afterwards, I said laughing, Daniel your turn. Okay Nikki. Would you rather date Brad Pitt or me? Oh thats a tough one, but Id have to say Brad Pitt. Oooh tough break there Daniel, Jesse said. Nah, its cool. I knew shed pick him anyway. I just wanted to hear her say it. Yeah right, Nikki said. Okay Karol your turn, Daniel said. UmmTy? Would you rather date Jesse or Channing Tatum? Jesse hands down! Channing Tatum is not my type. Interesting Jesse said grinning I blushed and pointed over to Katie, your turn. Okay Jesse. Would you rather get married today to the girl of your dreams and live happily ever after together and never play quarterback on the 49

football team again or continue to play quarterback on the football team for the rest of your life and never get married. Wait so I can never get married if I pick football? Nope. Why do I have to get the tough one, Jesse said smiling. Katie shrugged, So which will it be? Ill get married. Football isnt worth never getting to meet the woman God has for me. Good answer, I said. Okay Jesse your turn, Katie said. Alright Katie, would you rather meet Bugs Bunny or Bugs Bunny? Seriously Jesse Im not four, Im ten remember? Katie said. No complaints this is my question. So would you rather meet Bugs Bunny or Johnny Depp? Johnny Depp!! Can I meet him now? If you meet him I coming with, that way I can ask to be in his next movie, I said. I am so there with you Ty bring me along too, Nikki said. Okay my turn? Daniel, would you ratherwould you rather ride a bull and get thrown off every time or carry Nikkis luggage off the plane? Carry Niks luggage definitely. I dont want to live in a hospital. Awe youd do that for me? That is so sweet honey, Nikki said. You do know that it was just a question right?

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Oh, Nikki replied seemingly disappointed, I thought you loved me enough to carry all of my luggage. Iuh, Daniel began. Thanks sweetie, Nikki said taking his answer as a yes and giving him a quick peck on the cheek. I opened my mouth to stand up for Daniel, but as soon as I had the pilot came over the intercom, If you look out your window to the right youll see that we have reached Texas, so if you would please get to your seat and buckle up, well be getting ready to land in a few minutes. Thank you. Everyone got up to look out the window. We saw the beautiful scenery of Texas below us and all the many miles and open land that was perfect for horseback riding. Look at that you guys, I said looking out the window, Were in Texas.

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Chapter 8
The plane landed a few minutes later and as we began to exit the plane I heard someone call my name. I turned to see who was calling for me and saw Mr. Johnson in the distance standing beside grandmas limo. Mr. Johnson! I yelled back dropping my bags and racing over to hug him, What are you doing here? Wheres grandma? Now Taylor, you know your grandma. Shes too busy bossing people around to come and pick you up. So I get the pleasure of being your chauffeur for the day, he said bowing. Yes! I said laughing, well I guess I better go back and get my bags. Be right back. No need, Jesse said coming up behind me, I got them for you. Awe thanks Jesse, I said turning back to Mr. Johnson, Mr. Johnson this is my gentleman of a brother and friend Jesse. Nice to meet you sir, let me help you with those bags. They werent too heavy were they? I asked as Jesse started to hand over my luggage and his to Mr. Johnson. Please Ty, carrying your bags arent a problemalthough Niks are a different issue altogether, he said looking at Daniel struggling to help Nikki with all of her suitcases. We looked at each other remembering what happened on the plane and laughed. Well then, I said looking back at Mr. Johnson, I guess were ready. 52

I suppose so, he replied after helping Jesse to load everyones luggage in the trunk. Oh and Ms. Taylor? Yes? I think youll be very happy to hear that you have a visitor waiting for you back at your grandmas house? I looked at him thoughtfully, Who is it? That, he said opening the door for us, Is something you will have to find out upon your arrival. Mr. Johnson hadnt changed at all. He loved raising your expectations by throwing out little hints of a surprise only to tell you that you would have to wait to see whatever it was for yourself. Grandma lives in Patience, Texas which was about twenty-five miles away from the landing strip. After being in Indiana I had forgotten how dry and dusty this part of Texas was. The scenery was gorgeous, however. The bluebonnets and white dandelions were in full bloom along the roadside and the yellow sunflowers were as pretty as I had ever seen them. It felt good to be back in Texas, no sooner than we had left the landing strip had we arrived at grandmas house. Is this the right house? Nikki said gasping at the sight of my grandmas house. Yep, I said stepping out the limo and looking at the house, This is it. The outside of grandmas house looked like a castle. My grandpa had built it for my grandma for her wedding present thirty-one years ago, but every time I saw it looked like it had been built recently. There were rose bushes aligned against the side of the house, with stairs leading to the front entrance. It was a four story house with a large outdoor pool, pool 53

house, and spa. But from the outside all you saw were windows. Windows and a light brown brick with a hint of red splashed here and there. I sighed at the sight of seeing the house again there were so many memories. No wonder you gave up hanging out with Nikki to come hang out here every summer, Jesse said still staring in awe at the house. Wellare we going to stand out here gaping at the sight of the house, or are we going to go inside and check out the rest of the house? I asked. With that we picked up our luggage and headed inside. It was a thousand times prettier inside than it was outside. As soon as we walked in a scent of Jasmine brushed our noses, and as you looked around you saw chandeliers in every room with Jasmine flowers planted in the window sills. Grandma didnt believe in having carpet, because it got dirty too quickly, so in its place was blue marble flooring laid out on the entire first floor. Wow, Katie said still looking around. Can we look around? Karol asked. Surebutummtry not to touch anything okay? I dont want grandma touh I said breaking off my sentence, as I saw something as white as grandmas Jasmine flowers running towards me. Lady! I yelled kneeling down to pet my poodle that I had gotten as a gift from my grandma. Ive missed you too, I said as she began to lick my face. I stood up and looked at my friends. Guys, this is Lady. Grandma bought her for me when I was 13 as a present, but my dad didnt like having animals in our house so she had to stay in Texas, I said scratching Ladys head. 54

Oh! So this is the famous Lady you told me about, Nikki said kneeling down to pet Lady, Shes so well-mannered Ty. I laughed, Well she better be. My grandma sent her to a dog training camp a year before I got her. No way, a dog training camp, Daniel remarked. Yeah, I said looking at Lady. They smiled and then started asking more questions about Lady and grandmas house. For instance, Does she really live here with only her servants and Lady? or How could you forget to tell us that you had a dog? or the most important When can we see our rooms, because if theyre anything like the rest of the house they should be pretty amazing right? I was about to answer, but turned around as I sensed Grandma coming our way. Well it is about time you got here. How was the trip? Not too bad I hope? grandma asked walking towards us. She was wearing an elegant black dress and had her gray hair tied back into a bun. She always insisted that a lady should dress for dinner. Hi grandma, I said going over to give her a hug. The trip was fine. You remember my friends from my birthday party two years ago, Nikki, the twins Katie and Karol (who decided to hang around after seeing Lady), and Jesse. But someone you didnt meet that day is Nikkis boyfriend Daniel, I said gesturing to each of them. It is nice to see each of you again, and its nice to meet you Daniel. I am glad to hear that you could make it. I guess you will want to see your rooms. Yes?

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She saw everyone nod and continued speaking, Very well. Charles? Charles came to the door and stood smiling. As long as I can remember Charles has always worked for my grandma and to me he seems more like family than a servant. When I was younger and would come to visit my grandparents, he would occasionally sit in the parlor with me and play board games, to help me from being bored. Yes Miss, he said looking from grandma to me, Oh Taylor you made it, he said coming over to give me a hug, Have you seen your visitor yet? No...not yet, I stuttered, Who is it? I am not allowed to say, he said as he smiled and pulled away from me, But you will find the visitor in back by the stables. You have horses? Katie and Karol yelled together. Yes, we have horses, grandma said looking sternly, You are all welcome to ride, as long as you know how to ride and wear the proper attire. Now to get back to business, Charles will you please show our guests to their rooms? grandma said looking at Charles who had already picked up Katie and Karols bags. Now, she said looking at Daniel and Jesse, the boys will be in rooms J & K. The girls will be in rooms B, C, F, and G, she said looking towards us, You are welcome to share a room if you wish. But boys must remain with the boys and girls with the girls. Understood? Yes maam, we all replied and followed Charles up the stairs with the rest of our luggage. I forgot how proper your grandmother was, Nikki whispered when we had gotten at a far enough distance up the stairs from my grandma. 56

Yeah and guess what? Thats only the beginning of it. So, she has a room for every letter of the alphabet? Nikki asked grinning. I nodded, Have you seen this house? It was my grandpas idea to label the rooms with letters, because there were so many. I looked down the hallway at the rooms aligned side my side. The first floor held rooms A-D. On the second floor there were rooms E-H on the left side of the hallway and J-M on the right side. The third floor held rooms N-T and the fourth floor held rooms U-Z. My grandpa use to tell me that each room held something special, and I guess since he had died that was true. Each room held something different that he and my grandma had put in each room over the years. Wow. Your grandpa went way out for your grandma huh? You have no idea, I said thoughtfully. So whos this special visitor everyone keeps talking about? Nikki asked changing the subject. I dont know. I think Im going to go check it out when I put my bags up. Ill meet up with you later. Promise me you wont get lost, okay? Nikki looked at me at shook her head, In this place, she said looking around, I cant promise that Ty. I had finished putting my bags in my old bedroom and looked around to see if anything had changed. It hadnt. Grandma hadnt touched it since the last time I came to visit. My walls were purple with brown carpet covering the floor. A queen size bed was in the far left corner wall with a purple canopy covering it. My dresser was filled with pictures of my parents and grandparents. There was 57

even a dog bed for Lady to sleep in whenever I came to visit. I always had room F, my grandpa gave it to me the first summer I came down to spend the night with my parents when I was five. He had said, I think Im going to give room F to Taylor (my grandpa hated calling me Ty, he said it sounded too much like a guys name). Why are you giving her room F? my grandma had asked. Because, he said picking me up, shes my favorite granddaughter. Grandpa, I said smiling, Im youre only granddaughter. And I was. My grandmother had gotten pregnant twice before my dad was born, but she had miscarried them both. She and my grandpa had prayed and prayed for the Lord to bless them with a son, and they were blessed with my dad, whom they named Samuel. Meaning asked of God. I looked over at the pictures on my dresser, and picked up a picture of my parents. They looked so happy in this one. It was a picture of my dad teaching me the proper way to ride a horse. The horse had decided to stand up on his hind legs. My dad got scared and began to run away. My mom and I were in the distance laughing. The memory brought tears to my eyes, oh how I missed them. I took one last look around my room and left heading down the stairs. I walked through the parlor towards the stables. The walk between the parlor and the stables was no joke. My grandma had refused to have the horses anywhere near her beautiful house, so there was about a quarter of a mile difference between the house and stables. But it was worth it, there was a gorgeous path that led to the stables that grandma kept manicured and watered. I finally reached the

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stables to see a young man probably around my age brushing my horse Jasmine. As soon as Jasmine saw me she started to get antsy. Whoa there girl, whats got you? I heard the young man say. Thats probably my fault, I said walking towards him. She always gets like that when she sees me, I said as the young man turned to face me. Taylor? he said when he saw me, Long time no see. I stared at the young man. He was a special visitor alright. Tyler Brookes, my best friend in Texas back when I was twelve. We did everything together when I first started coming to visit during the summer, swimming, horseback riding, playing on the swing set, and everything else you could probably imagine two nine year olds doing to have fun. But that summer, that summer that I had turned twelve, I had been so excited to visit my grandma, only to go out to the stables to find Tyler crying. I had asked him why he was crying only to hear him say that his parents were splitting up and he was moving to live with his dad in Tennessee, while his mom stayed here in Texas. When I asked why he wasnt staying with his mom, he shook his head and said, I have no choice Taylor, it was in the agreement between my parents. My mom thought that it would be best if I lived with my dad, so that I can have some male guidance in my life. I only get to visit my mom throughout the year, and occasionally during the summer. We sat in silence long after that, neither one of us not knowing what to say. It was pitch black outside before my dad came to get us saying that Tylers dad was there to pick him up. He hugged me and ran for his dad, as I ran for my room. The next time I came to visit, my 59

grandma surprised me with a baby poodle to help me forget about Tyler. And you guessed it I named that poodle Lady. Well he said still looking at me, are you going to stand there looking at me, or are you going to say something? A million things that I could have said ran through my head at that instant, however, Tyler? was all that came out.

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Chapter 9
I guess I shouldve guessed it when Charles said that there was someone waiting for me at the stables. Why would anyone pick the stables as a place to meet someone, unless of course that someone is Tyler. All of the times that we spent together were usually located around the stables. He even helped me to name my horse. Well your grandmas house always smells like Jasmine, he had said, So why dont you name her that? So I did, grandma bought Jasmine for me six months before Tyler left, and every time I saw her I thought of him. Wellthats something I guess, Tyler said interrupting my thoughts, But I thought youd say something more than my name. W-Wh-What are you doing here? I thought you were in Tennessee? I asked. Well I wasI mean until my dad got remarried. I cant stand his new wife, so I left and came back out here to live with my mom. Why? Do you want me to leave? No! Of course I dont want you to leave! I said taken aback, Im surprised to see you thats all. I know, its been a long time, he said walking towards me, Ive missed you, you know. Really? I said looking up at him, Ive missed you too. It was so boring here without you, grandma had to buy me Lady to help me forget about you. He smiled, I saw. I cant believe she replaced me with a dog, a poodle nonetheless.

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I love lady, but, I said walking passed him and towards Jasmine, she could never truly replace you. So what do you say we pick up where we left off? he asked adding excitement to his voice. You want to go fishing or something? When did we ever go fishing? I asked amused. Never , but I thought wed try something new, he said smiling. Maybe later, I said looking at him, Im here with my friends you know. I cant leave without them. Well cant they stay here with your parents, while we catch up? I looked at him then, long and hard. I guess it wasnt surprising that he hadnt heard about my parents death. With him being in Tennessee for the past five years, and my grandma never wanting to bring up the subject of my parents seeing as it caused her too much heartache, almost as much as it brought me when someone brought them up. His smile disappeared from his face before he asked, Ty? Whats going on? Where are your parents? I sat on the stool beside Jasmines stable and watched Tyler come over and sit on the ground next to me. I thought awhile before I finally answered his question. Im not sure how long it took me to tell the entire story, but I told it nonetheless. Looking back at that day I remember it being a normal day just like any other up until I received a call from my grandmother. I had been staying at the Parkers house for a few days because my parents being the proud owners of Tick Tock an Italian themed restaurant had been called away on business 62

for the weekend in Georgia. I had been hanging out on the couch in the living room of the Parker house with Nikki and Jesse when it happened. Taylor, Nikki said stressing my name, What do you think your parents are going to bring you back from their trip? Since your birthday is in four days. I dont know Nik, they said they had something special for me, something that Id love, I said watching an old rerun of Golden Girls flashing on the TV in front of me, I am a little curious to know what it is though. Well you always get something good, thats a fact. Didnt you get an iPod touch for your last birthday? Man youre so lucky to be an only child, she said glaring at Jesse. Dont look at me, Jesse said chewing on a sandwich he had stuffed into his mouth, You were born after me. If you want my opinion, you shouldve stayed in there. I laughed, but Nikki didnt. Shut up Jesse, she had said. So Ty, what do you want from me this year? Werent you thinking of throwing me a birthday party or something? I asked picking up the remote and flipping through the channels. Oh yeah, I forgot, she said watching the channels change, wait turn that back. Oh never mind, I thought it was Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Well who all do you want to be invited? she asked. Just my close friends I guess you, the twins, and Jesse. Oh wait, Im invited? Jesse said coming up behind us and taking the remote out of my hand.

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Of course, youd be invited. Now give me back the remote, I said getting off the couch and going over to where he was. Thats not going to happen. Im getting tired of watching all these boring chick flicks. I want to watch something more entertaining. Like what? Football? I asked already knowing the answer. Precisely, he said finding the channel, and holding the remote out of my reach. Jesse! I did not come over here to watch football, now give it back, I cried. No. Jesse! Im not kidding give it back! Forget him Ty, Nikki said as she rolled her eyes at her brother, Come back over here with me and lets finish brainstorming for your party. Fine, I said defeated as I walked over to the couch to sit by Nikki. As Nikki and I sat on the couch for the next fifteen minutes trying to brainstorm ideas for my party I heard the default ring tone on my cell phone start to go off. I cant find it. Do you see it over there by you Nik? I asked as I began to frantically search for my phone. No. I hear it but I cant see it, Nikki said. I know! Same with me, Jesse do you see it over there by you? I asked looking in Jesses direction. Sorry Ty. No phone in this vicinity. Wait do you hear that? Nikki asked. What? I dont hear anything, I said confused.

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Exactly, it stopped ringing. Well, I guess it wasnt that important, if it was theyd call back, she said as soon as my phone started to ring again. Im guessing its important Nik, I said still hunting for my phone. Found it! Nikki sang as she pulled out my cell phone from between the couch seat cushions. Thank you. Hello? I asked into the phone as I found a seat on the couch, Oh hey grandma. What? Grandma you have to slow down. What happened? I listened for a few more seconds to the words my grandmother was saying to me over the phone, before my cell phone fell to the floor. I laid back on the couch and began to cry harder than I had ever cried in my entire life. Jesse and Nikki both rushed over to see what was wrong. They kept asking me why I was crying, but nothing came out except for tears. Jesse reached down to pick up my phone that I had dropped and listened to the rest of the story that my grandma was giving to him. My parents had been on their way home from Georgia when the pilot lost control of the jet due to a freak storm. They crashed and died along with five other people. I locked myself in Nikkis room for the rest of the day, and the Parkers respecting my privacy and loss, left me alone. When I came downstairs the next morning for breakfast my hair was a mess, I hadnt showered that morning or the night before, and I was still wearing my clothes from the day before, but I didnt care. I felt like crawling into a hole and crying until I ran out of tears. Nikki came downstairs not long after I had for breakfast. She saw me in the corner of her eye sitting in a chair at the kitchen table, but continued to walk towards the cabinet for some breakfast. After she had 65

poured some cereal into a bowl, I felt her gaze fix on me. For a while I wondered if she going to say anything, or continue to stare at me, but she finally spoke. Ty? she asked as I lifted my eyes to look at her, Howre you holding up? I dropped my eyes again and stared at the smooth table surface that lay beneath my arms. It was all still surprising to me; I mean I had spoken with my parents the day before. They had called to say that theyd be home as soon as there jet landed, and then before they hung up they said they loved me. I love you too, I had said back. I wish I couldve said, Dont get on the jet, a sudden storm will come out of nowhere and if you get on the jet youll die. But how could I? I didnt know that a freak storm would happen to be in the same location that my parents were flying in. You want to talk about it? Nikki asked interrupting my thoughts. I shook my head and continued to stare at the kitchen table. It had a black marble surfaceit even had white spots from some milk one of the twins had wasted that morning and forgotten to clean up Im sure. Mr. Parker came downstairs and said something to Jesse, who was in the living room, about telling the principal that I wasnt going to be coming to school because of my loss. I saw him look at me for a second when he passed by the kitchen then he continued up the stairs mouthing to Nikki, Im going to get your mother. Seeing this I started to cry again, only for to Nikki rush over to my side at an instant. Ty, he didnt mean it that way. He just doesnt know what to do. He doesnt quite know whats going to happen to 66

you, since you dont have any family in Indiana or anything. WaitnoI didnt mean it that way, she said feeling stupid. But I had hardly been listening because Mr. Parker and Nikki were right I didnt have any other family, what was going to happen to me? Where was I going to go? These thoughts only made me cry harder. But the next thing I knew Nikki had pulled me out of my chair and hugged me tightly in her arms. Itll be okay Ty, itll be okay, she said whispering into my hair, Ill always be here for you. Hearing this made me cry harder yet again, because my mom had said the exact same thing. But thinking about it I guess she would always be there with me. In my heart and memories, but at the moment I wanted her there with me instead of Nikki. Jesse came into the kitchen from the living room and seeing Nikki hugging me for comfort, came over and joined in on the hug, followed by the twins. Mrs. Parker came down the stairs not long after this and saw her children hugging me for comfort as I cried. Ah, honey, she said taking me from them and holding me herself. Come here, do you want to talk about it? I shook my head as I started to cry into her shirt as she took me into the living room. Im so sorry Ty, Tyler said when I had finished telling him the story. I didnt know. No one told me anything when I got back. They only said that youd be excited to see me and that I better not leave again. Its okay, I said looking at his face, I dont blame you. No one here really wants to talk about it, because it was really hard on everyone. But, I 67

said smiling at him, They were right about one thing. You had better not leave me again. Got it? He laughed as he held up his hands in surrender, I promise. I wont leave you again. So umm...was it hard? I mean dealing with your parents being gone and everything? I thought about his question for a while before answering, It was at first, I use to ask God what good reason did he have for letting my parents die along with those other five people in that plane crash. I never really did get an answer from him, but I remembered what my mom always said to me back when she was alive, 'everything happens for a reason Ty and she was right. In what way? Tyler asked. Well first of all since my parents died I've moved in with the Parkers' and become closer to them than ever. Jesse, Nikki, and the twins are more like my family now than they were before. Then there's the fact that my mom's mom keeps in contact with me a hundred times more than she did before my parents died. So I guess it wasn't all bad. I mean yes, I hate having my parents out of my life, but in the end some good did come from their death. That's good to hear. Is it hard waking up in the morning and knowing that they're not there? It was. But its become a lot easier to me now. A few months after they had first died I use to dream that they were still alive, only to wake up in the morning and find myself not in my house, but the Parkers' and before I could stop, I would find myself crying again. It was really hard to know that I didn't have my mom there to talk to or to interpret my dreams for me anymore, or having my dad around to joke and cook with. But the Parkers' have been very patient with me over the last two years and I couldn't 68

be more grateful. Anymore questions? I asked with a smile. I dont think so, I think you've covered all my questions. Good, I said getting up off the stool, Well, I guess wed better be getting back. Theyre probably wondering whats taking me so long. Cool, Ill come with you. I cant wait to meet your friends, he said getting off the ground and dusting himself off, How do I look? Presentable I hope. He looked like he always did. His hair was dark brown and cut short. He had hazel eyes that were almost mesmerizing when you looked into them, but they matched almost perfectly with his light brown skin color. His teeth were perfect due to him having braces when he was eight, and he was dressed in a pair of loose blue jeans and a green polo shirt. You look fine, I said grabbing his arm, Now lets go. Okay, he said releasing his arm from my grasp, Ill race you back. Youre on, I said running off before he was ready.

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Friday: March 5 Dear Diary, After talking to Tyler about the death of my parents I realized that I never wrote about my birthday that I celebrated four days later. It was the first birthday I had ever had without my parents. I didnt feel like celebrating, but grandma said that it might help boost my spirits. The party was held at my house. Grandma and I stayed there until we had finished gathering all of my parents belongings together for grandma to take back to Texas with her. Grandma had asked me every day if I wanted anything out of my parents possessions, but my answer was always NO. I took a picture of my dad and my mom out of one of the frames we had hung up in the living room and then one of the three of us that they had sitting on their nightstand and kept them under my pillow, that was all I wantedtheir picture to help keep them alive. The Parkers' came over later that afternoon to celebrate my birthday with me. Taylor the Parkers' have arrived, my grandma called into my room when the doorbell rang. Coming, I said getting out of my bed and walking into the living room area. I wasnt really in the mood that day to celebrate, I told grandma to forget about my birthday all together, but she refused to. Walking into the living room I looked around at the empty walls around me. Grandma had already begun to take pictures off the walls and stored them in boxes that were being lined up against the wall. Even with grandma living in the house with me it was empty. There were no cooking smells coming from 70

the kitchen where my dad would cook. Mom wasnt singing her usual happy tune as she tried on new clothing, and I wasnt laughing at my dad as he tried to sing with my mom in harmony. I use to tell him to stick to cooking because at least he was good at that...singing...not so much. I havent laughed much since their death... none actually. Happy Birthday Taylor! Mrs. Parker greeted me as she walked through the door, handed me a present and brought me in for a hug. Thank you, I said returning the hug. Theres the birthday girl, Mr. Parker said walking in behind his wife, How old are you today? 23 or 24? Im fifteen, I said with a smile. Thats what I said.... fifteen, he said laughing at his own joke. Kyle hand her the present and make room for everyone else to come in, Mrs. Parker said. Alright, alright, Happy Birthday sweetie, Mr. Parker said handing me my present. Thank you Mr. Parker, I said walking towards our living room table to put the presents down. Mr. Parker always had a dry since of humor... he reminded me of my dad in that way. Happy Birthday Ty, Nikki said as she entered through the door and gave me a big hug. Thanks Nikki, I said returning the hug and reaching for my present. What did you get me? I cant tell you, Nikki said as she walked over to put her present on the table, Itll ruin the surprise. Fine, dont tell me, I said to Nikki as I noticed the twins coming in. Hey girls, I said to the twins. 71

Hey Ty, Happy Birthday, they said in unison as they both walked past me to put a present of their own on the table. Do I get a birthday hug? Of course! Katie said as she rushed over to give me a hug with Karol following close behind. Wheres Jesse? I asked when I finished giving the twins a hug. Hes running a little late, Mr. Parker said, but hell be here. He forgot to pick you up a present, Nikki whispered over to me. Sounds just like Jesse, I said smiling. Well thank you all for coming, grandma said, There is some food in the kitchen that Taylor has made so please help yourself to whatever you like. We will eat cake and open the presents after everyone has eaten. I didnt really want to cook for my birthday but my dad had finished a list two weeks ago of everything he was going to make for my birthday dinner. So I cooked everything he had on the list to thank him for thinking of me. I made Spaghetti, Pizza, Italian rolls, cheesecake, ice cream (which was still in the freezer), chicken strips, macaroni & cheese, and popcorn shrimp. I couldnt decide what to eat on my birthday, so my dad decided that since I was turning fifteen to make all of my favorite foods. I had stayed up until six this morning making everything. I hadnt slept for long after that though. Since their accident Im lucky if I sleep for more than two hours. Grandma however did draw the line at me baking my own cake so she ordered a cookie cake and had it delivered this morning. Ty are you going to eat anything? Nikki asked as I joined everyone at the dining room table. 72

No Im not really hungry. I honestly hadnt been eating anything since the day my parents died. My grandma was starting to worry about me. That was another reason she thought that having people over might help me to get better. But you have to eat something, its your birthday. I will, just not right now, I said as I watched everyone grab their favorite foods off the table. My parents had bought a dining room table that was big enough to fit eleven people. They were always inviting people over from work to try out my dads new recipes for the menu at their restaurant Tick Tock, and having a table made for four people wasnt working out to well anymore, so we upgraded. Who would like to pray over our dinner for today? my grandma asked. No one responded, but looked down at their plates as if hoping they would turn invisible. Alright then I will pray. Father God thank you for this lovely meal that was prepared for us today, and thank you for allowing Taylor to be blessed to live another day and to be another year older. Thank you for the family and friends that could make it today to celebrate this day with us. Please continue to watch over and protect us in your name we pray, Amen. Amen, everyone said in unison as they began to eat their food. This food is excellent my dear, my grandma said as she sadly looked at the empty spot in front of me. Thanks grandma, I said back with a smile. As I watched everyone begin to eat the food on their plates the doorbell rang.

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Ill get it, I said getting up from my chair and walking to the door, Jesse! I said as I opened the door. Hey there birthday girl, Jesse said with a smile forming across his face, Sorry Im late. Its okay, Im just glad you could make it, I said letting him pass through the door entrance, Everyone is in the dining room eating. Of course, I wouldnt have missed your birthday party, and this he said as he handed me a small rectangular package, is for you, Thank you, I said as I walked over to the table and put down the package. So shall we go in? he asked offering me his arm. We shall, I said smiling. Walking into the dining room Jesse led me to my seat before grabbing a plate and loading it up with food. He found a seat beside me and began to eat heartily. After everyone was finished eating grandma suggested that we go back into the living room to open presents and then we would have cake and ice cream. Grandma handed me the presents on the table one by one. First it was Mr. Parkers I opened it to find a silver locket. It was beautiful. It was the shape of a heart with the word Always engraved on the front. I thought youd like to insert a picture of your mom and dad, Mr. Parker said. Thank you Mr. Parker, I said placing the locket beside me on the couch and getting up to give him a hug. Youre welcome sweetie, he said as he returned the hug. 74

Next I was given the presents from Katie and Karol. They had both drawn me a picture. Katies was me and her eating a picnic in the park. She had a blue and yellow homemade bracelet attached to the picture. Thank you Katie. So you want to go on a picnic? Yeah! Sounds like fun right? Katie asked. Definitely! I said smiling as I placed her present beside me and began to open Karols present. Karols picture was me and her at the zoo petting a goat, she also had a bracelet attached but it was green and pink. Thanks Karol. I was trying to create the scene of the petting zoo we went to last summer, Karol said. Ah, nicely done. Grandma handed me the present from Mrs. Parker next. It was a hand-decorated green clothed journal. It was decorated with two camera crafted patches sewed onto the top right and bottom left of the cloth, at the bottom right was a personalized note that read, It is during our darkest moments that we must focus on the light that surrounded the name Taylor that was also sewed onto the front of the journal in blue letters. I had a friend of mine from work make it for you. I thought you might like to start writing about your thoughts and feelings. It can help out more than you know. Thank you, I said getting up to give her a hug. Youre welcome sweetie. Okay, okay, my turn, Nikki said reaching to grab her present from the table. 75

Thank you Nikki, I said as I took the present from her and began to open it. Wow, I said as I studied the package of 100 different colored gel pens lying before me. Well I knew that my mom was getting you a journal so I thought Id get you some pens to write with. Now you can make it as colorful as you want. Ha-ha, thank you Nikki, I said smiling and placing the pens on the couch beside me. And the last one from the Parkers is Jesses, grandma said as she handed me the present. I hope you like it Ty, I was trying to find something that said Taylor. Well you couldve just gotten me the same journal that your mom got for me, I said holding up my Taylor journal and laughing. You know what I mean, Jesse said grinning. I opened his present to find a purple clothed covered photo album that was filled with over 400 empty slots for pictures inside. It also had the verse But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren. - Deuteronomy 5:9 printed on the cover. How did you ? I saw you looking at it a couple of weeks ago when we went to that bookstore downtown, so I thought it was the perfect present for your birthday. A tear came to my eye as I said, Thank you Jesse. Youre welcome Ty. Now you can have all your pictures in one place. I smiled as I placed his present on my legs and waited for grandma to hand me the next present. 76

Taylor this one is from me and the staff back home, grandma said as she placed an envelope into my hand. I opened the envelope to find a card that said, Enjoy your birthday and your present, you deserve both. It was signed by all the members of my grandmas staff on the left side of the card, but on the right side of the card was a credit card that had been taped to the envelope. A credit card? I yelled as I untaped it and held it up for everyone to see, Seriously? I think youre old enough to handle it Taylor, but there is a $500 limit since you are only fifteen and I can track all your purchases. So be careful with it and only use it when there is an emergency understood. A clothing emergency does not count. I can help you with that. Understood? Yes maam, thank you grandma! I said placing the card beside all the other presents. Thank you everyone for all the presents, I love them all! Youre welcome, everyone said in unison. Actually Taylor I have one more present for you, my grandma said as she got up and walked into her guest room to retrieve it. Its from your mom and dad, grandma said as she returned to the living room. You have the choice of opening it up now or later. It is entirely up to you. I looked at the medium size package that grandma placed on the floor in front of me, and then I glanced around at the anxious faces that awaited the package to be opened. Even in my parents death they still had not forgotten about me.

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I picked up the package from the floor and moved Jesses present from my legs and placed it with all the other presents beside me. I began to remove the wrapping paper slowly until a plain brown box began to show. I took off the tape that held the box together until I was able to open it and take out the second box that was inside. Pulling out the second box I held in my hands a professional 2011 Sony camera. When did they? I began to ask. They picked it out a few months ago. They sent it to my house to keep it a secret, and I brought it down with me after the accident to give to you. They knew how much you wanted to become a photographer so they wanted to give you something great to start off with. Oh, I said not looking up from the package I held in my hands, Ill be right back. You can help yourself to cake and ice cream. I said to everyone as I picked up the camera and put everyone elses presents into the empty brown box and took them all with me to my bedroom. I shut the door behind me and placed the brown box on the floor beside my bed. I looked at the present that I got from my parents one more time before placing it into the back of my closet so that I could no longer see it. I sat on my bed for a while before tears began to stream down my face. I dont remember anyone coming to check up on me, the next time I saw anyone again was the next morning. Grandma said that when she did come to 78

check up on me it was around nine that night and she placed a blanket on top of me. I had apparently cried myself to sleep. She asked where the camera was and I said nothing, I just went to help myself to a cup of yogurt. The camera did come with me when I moved into the Parker house, its even in my luggage right now that I brought to grandmas house, but its still in the box. I never took it out, and I havent used a camera in two years. But I did fill up the first half of the photo album that Jesse gave me with the pictures that were around the house, and I wear the locket with a picture of my mom and dad every day around my neck. Thats how I keep their memory alive.

Taylor!

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Chapter 10
Ah, Charles said to Tyler and me when we ran through the parlor door, I can see that you found your special visitor. Yeah, I found him. Why didnt you tell me it was Tyler, Charles? I asked in between breaths. Nope, Charles replied shaking his head, I was given strict orders by Mr. Brookes not to let you know that he was here. I looked back at Tyler who was smiling down at me, Really Tyler, strict orders? Come on. Admit it Ty, you were surprised to see me. Ill admit nothing, I said shaking my head. Where is everyone? I asked looking around the empty parlor. Your friends are in the kitchen with your grandmother. God only knows what she is saying to them, if you know what I mean, Charles said winking at me and making his way towards the stairs. What do you think shes saying to them, Tyler asked looking in the direction of the kitchen. Only one way to find out, I said racing towards the kitchen with Tyler close behind me. Taylor! my grandma called when she saw me entering the kitchen, I see you have found Tyler. Yes maam, I said looking back behind me at Tyler and then at my grandma again, so whats going on in here? Well I have given your friends a grand tour of the house and I was about to get to the important details of the party. So if you and Tyler would like to join us I will continue, she said motioning us to sit. 80

I found a seat beside Nikki at my grandmas dining table that was made to seat thirty people. As soon as Tyler and I were both seated at the table grandma started to talk about the party. First off, I would like to inform everyone that I have changed the party from being a formal dinner party, to being an elegantly dressed ball! I have already made the proper changes and I still want each and every one of you to attend. There will be things that need to be attended to around the house to which you will each help with throughout your day. Since the party is being held one week from yesterday, this way you can leave on Saturday and still have Sunday to rest up and get ready to return to school, we will go shopping for the proper attire on Wednesday. Now, grandma said clapping her hands together, are there any questions? I stared in astonishment at my grandma. She was known in the past for putting some pretty amazing parties together, but a ball? I looked around at the rest of my friends to see their faces looking the same as mine. Well, my grandma said after hearing no questions, Since there are no questions you are all dismissed to do whatever it is you wish to do. Dinner will be served in an hour and breakfast will be served promptly at seven oclock tomorrow morning. She picked up her black leather handbag and headed towards the kitchen door, I will see you all then, she said before leaving. A ball? I heard Katie scream across the table. Thats awesome. Ive never been to a ball before. I mean Ive seen one on Cinderella and stuff but Ive never seen one in real life. This is going to

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be great, Karol said leaning her head back on her chair and smiling up at the ceiling. Karol, Katie said, Do you think there will be anyone our age to dance with us? Oh, Karol said sadly, I didnt think of that. What if there is no one there to dance with, except a bunch of old people. Who will we dance with then? I would be honored to dance with the two of you, Jesse said getting up out of his chair and bowing. As would I, Tyler said standing up. Ah yes, the mystery guest, Nikki said looking up at Tyler, Ty are you going to introduce us to your friend or are you going to make me do it myself? Sorry, I said clearing my throat, Everyone this is Tyler. Tyler this is everyone and more specifically this is Nikki, Daniel, Jesse, Katie, and Karol, I said gesturing to each of them. Its nice to meet all of you, Tyler said flashing his perfect white teeth. So how do you two know one another? Daniel asked from his seat. Oh we met years ago, Tyler started saying, We were best friends before my parents split up, and then my dad got married again. So I decided to move back up here and rekindle my friendship with Taylor. This is Tyler? Nikki whispered beside me, The Tyler that you were always talking about when you got back from your summer breaks? I nodded, This is him. Nikki had been the only one I had mentioned Tyler to, its not because of anything personal. I figured that no one but Nikki would care all that much. Nikki was always so engrossed in the stories I

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showered her with when I got back from my trips to Texas; she said it was the perfect romance. Oh Ty, that is so cute. You guys went horseback riding through the woods, camping, played checkers and chess, and you even let him win at UNO. If thats not love I dont know what is. Nikki, I had said, Were not in love. Hes a really good friend thats all. Not for long, she had said with a smirk. Hes hotter than you described him. I mean he could be Daniels twin, she said looking beside her at Daniel. Now that she had mentioned it, there was a big resemblance between the two of them. They were both built the same and had the same facial structure. However, the thing that set the two of them apart was Daniels short curly brown hair and his dark brown eyes, but oddly enough Daniels tan almost matched perfectly with Tylers natural skin color. Tyler and Taylor, I heard Katie muttering to herself over and over. Whatd you say Katie, I asked. IuhI was thinking. Did you find it weird that both of your names are so similar? I mean we call you Ty, Taylor. But if you think about it you could call Tyler the same thing. Tyler and I exchanged glances before laughing. We noticed, I replied, Our parents thought it was interesting that our names were so close together too. It confused everyone, us and our parents, because everyone called us Ty and not our actual names, Tyler said smiling at me.

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So eventually we thought of a compromise that was easier on everyone, I said returning Tylers smile. What was that? Nikki asked thoroughly interested. We played rock, paper, scissors, and the winner kept the nickname, Tyler said still looking at me. Really? Who won? Karol asked. I raised my hand, Me! Tyler didnt think it was fair so we played 3 out of 5 games and I won all. Thats why I go by Ty and Tyler just goes by Tyler. I still think she cheated, Tyler said nudging me with his arm. How can you cheat in rock, paper, scissors? I protested, I won that game fair and square and you know it. Whatever, he said. So, I said changing the subject, What did you guys think about the house, big huh? Big isnt even a big enough term for this place. I cant believe your grandfather had it built for your grandmother as a wedding present, Nikki said still in a trance. I know right?! They were in love, I said. I want to find a love like that someday, Nikki said dreamily. Hello? Daniel asked, boyfriendsitting right beside you. Sorry Daniel, but its just that Tys grandparents were madly in love, Nikki said, Would you ever build me a house like this for a wedding present? If I had the money when we got married, of course I would.

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Awe, that is so sweet, Nikki said leaning over to give him a kiss on the cheek. Yuck, Karol said in a disgusted voice, Do you have to do that? Im with Karol. I mean have a little respect we have a guest visitor with us, I said. Easy for you to say, Daniel said frowning at me, Youve never even kissed a guy. Hey! Nikki said hitting him on the head, Dont go there. Taylor is waiting for the right guy to come along, arent you Ty? Yes maam, I said. Its okay Ty. Youll find your prince charming at the ball, Katie said smiling. I looked in Katies direction, Really now? What makes you so sure? Youre supposed to be another Cinderella, remember? You have to find your prince charming at the ball otherwise youll never find him, Karol replied before Katie could answer. If I dont find him at the ball Ill never find him? I asked amused. Exactly, but its okay, your fairy godmother will be there to help you out, Katie said pointing towards Nikki. Yeah, plus you have us, your mice, to help you look your best, Karol said smiling at herself. You girls have some imagination, Tyler said. Well, Im just excited to be attending a ball, Nikki said excitedly, Whos with me? Tyler, Daniel, and the twins nodded their heads as Jesse sat in silence. Are you excited for the ball Jesse? I asked. Wh- What? Oh yeah, he replied as though I had interrupted his thoughts.

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So Daniel said interrupting, Whats for dinner?

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Chapter Chapter 11
It was Sunday and as was tradition and a requirement in my grandmothers house, we woke up early that morning to attend the 9 oclock service. See my parents were non-denominational Christians -meaning that they were Christians without a title- and before my parents died I was required to attend church every Sunday and Wednesday. But since I moved into the Parker house I was no longer required to go. However, since I had become a saved Christian when I was eight years of age, every Sunday and Wednesday I was there. Jesse agreed to drive me, so that I wouldnt have to wait on the local bus, and he had refused to let me go in alone. So he came in with me every time I went and actually enjoyed himself. He gave his life to Christ a year and a half ago and never looked back. This was actually the reason that he broke up with Jessica. He wanted to be pure on the inside and out and he knew that the only way he could do that was by breaking off his relationship with Jessica. Since that time she continued to blame me for their break-up, saying that if I had never let Jesse take me to church he would have never gone inside and given his life to Christ and then broken up with her. I guess that explains why she dislikes me so much. The bible speaks about love constantly in various books throughout the bible, the pastor started, If you will turn to 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 we will read about Pauls definition of love. Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable and keeps no record of being wronged. It 87

does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up and never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. So what does this mean? the pastor asked rhetorically, Paul states in 1 Corinthians 13:13, And now these three gifts remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love. We must remember that God loved us first, because God is love. As it says in 1 John 4:8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. However, love does not only come into place when we are dealing with relationships and marriages. Because before you can love your spouse you must first love your neighbor. How is it possible that you can say that you love one and not the other? As being Disciples of Christ we are each responsible for loving every person that we come into contact with and even the people that we have never met. Now, he continued, you may be asking how can we show this love. First of all, we can pray for them, offer them housing if they are in need of it, we can lend a hand to them in their time of need, and of course we should treat them the as you would like to be treated if you were in their position. Remember when it comes to courtship and loving your spouse remember this, as Solomon said in Song of Solomon, Not to awaken love until the time is right because why would you want to start something that you are not ready for? Just because you are ready for a relationship doesnt mean that you are ready for the long term commitment of marriage, so why would you get involved in something that you are not ready to go all the way with? Why date only to break up, wouldnt you much rather wait for the 88

Lord to send the right man or woman into your life and marry him or her without the hurt? As I sat there listening to the pastor I was reminded of a memory I shared with my mom when I had asked her about courting. SoTy, my mom had said coming over to the couch where I was sitting, How was Nikkis sleepover last night. You want to talk about it? Not really, nothing special happened it was the same as usual, but I do have a question for you. Whats that Ty? At one point during the night the girls started talking about the guys that theyve dated or wanted to date. For short while I felt kind of out of place because I know that Im not allowed to date, but then one of the girls asked me what if the guy that I was supposed to marry came up to me right now and asked me out and I said no and he started to date someone else? Would I have missed my chance with meeting my future husband? And how did you reply? I didnt because I didnt know how to. Let me tell you something Ty. If God brought the man that you were to marry into your life right this second and you said no and he started to date someone else out of spite or what not. Then that is not the guy that God has for you. Because the man that God has for you would be willing to wait. No matter how long it takes. He will not start to date someone else because his feelings are hurt, or because he 89

feels like he can get another girl. He will want to wait to have the only girl in the world that cannot be had by none other. Understand? Can I ask you another question? Sure Ty, what is it? she asked. What if some guy said that he liked me and I said that I liked him back, and then he asked me out? Where would we go from there? Well Ty, first of all you have to see if he is a Christian and a professing believer. He cant just say that he is dedicated to God to get near you; you have to observe his walk with God and then take that into consideration, not to mention that you are way too young to be courting. But if you were older and this boy was a Christian, well I certainly would not have a problem with that. But you need to remember one thing. Uh-huh, I said waiting for here to continue. You have to remember, that if this guy has dated already in the past or plans to again in the future, you have to take into account how much more experience he will have had with relationships than you, etc. Oh, I said sighing, and that means hes probably kissed and been with a lot of girls? Probably so Ty, but in the end it wouldnt be my decision. You would have to be the one to pray about it and make the final decision. Okay? 90

Okay. Thanks Mommy, I said leaning over to give her a hug. Anytime Ty, and dont ever be afraid to talk to me about anything. Ill always be here for you, she said returning my hug and planting a kiss on my cheek. She was right of course. It would end up being my final decision in the end. Even after my parents death I continued to hold true to the promise that I made to them. That I would wait until God brought the right man into my life before I even considered courting. Nikki never cared about these rules, because she felt that her love between her and Daniel was strong enough to last a lifetime. But Jesse thought differently, after breaking up with Jessica and giving his life to Christ he told me that he refused to date anyone else, unless he was sure that the Lord had put the girl into his life. This statement touched my heart, because he had made the same promise I had and I knew that I wasnt in this battle for purity alone. I will leave you with this last statement, I heard the pastor say, Love is patient dont rush what God has for you. If you will remain patient, stay in prayer, and continue to devote your lives to Christ. He will give you everything that you need in his own timing. If Abraham can wait 100 years for his first child, I know that we can wait five years to find for the Lord to bring the right person into our lives. Am I right? Let us pray, dear Lord please help us to be patient in waiting for the things that you will bless us with in the future. Please continue to let us show love towards our neighbor and honor you through all things, putting you first before everything else. In your name we pray Amen. 91

Chapter 12
Okay, my grandma said joining us at the breakfast table. It was Wednesday morning the day before the ball. It surprised me how fast Spring break was disappearing before my eyes. Our week at my grandmas had consisted of cleaning, playing board games, swimming in her outdoor pool and at the nearby beach, spending some time here and there with Tyler and exploring each room in the house. The twins seemed to enjoy the rooms they seemed to believe that each room held something special. As you all know tomorrow is the big day it came upon us faster than I thought it would. I still have so much cleaning to do before tomorrow, but that is where you all will come in. I have a five lists here with very simple chores on them, grandma said handing a sheet of paper to each one of us, I was hoping that if you all do not mind, you could help me in preparing for tomorrow. So that we dont have anything to worry about for tomorrow, would you all mind helping me out? Everyone shook their heads. Grandma smiled and continued speaking, Great! But before you all start those few house chores, I have a day of shopping planned out for us. So go get into your morning attire, so that we can head out. Its about time, Ive been waiting the entire break for this day, Nikki said getting up from the table. What kind of dress are you thinking about getting? I asked as I followed Nikki out the kitchen and up the stairs. 92

I dont know. Maybe something big and puffy like the fairy god mothers dress on Cinderella, she said laughing. Funny, I said sarcastically, But seriously. What did you have in mind? Maybe something blue or orange, I mean think about it Ty, she said entering her room, No one ever wears orange to dances. Whys that? Some people do wear orange Nik, its just not one of the more popular dress colors. Thats all. She seemed to think it over, but shrugged her shoulders, What about you? What did you have in mind? I actually havent decided. I was actually hoping that I would go into the store and something would catch my eye. You know? Yeah, she said changing out of her green shirt and into a black one, its not like it matters what you wear anyway. Jesses still going to dance with youand Tyler too probably. I sat down on her bed and sighed, Tyler might ask to dance with me, but I doubt that Jesse will. Hes hardly said two words to me since weve gotten here. Thats because he doesnt know how to act around you anymore, he feels like the third wheel with Tyler around. Usually its just you and him and he can be his normal obnoxious and goofy self, but when he sees you around TylerI dont know he just changes. But I havent been trying to make him feel like the third wheel, its just that I havent seen Tyler in years. Tylers my friend and so is Jesse. You dont have to make him feel like the third wheel to make him into one. I get the fact that you just want to catch up with Tyler, but if theres 93

nothing more than that going on. You should include Jesse more. Theres nothing more than that I promise. Okay then, she said with a flip of her hair, You ready? As ready as Ill ever be, I said getting off her bed, Lets go. I felt bad knowing that Jesse felt like the third wheel when Tyler was around. I knew how much he hated feeling like an outcast, which is why the two of us usually hung around one another, because we were both the third wheels a lot of the time. Me when Nikki is with Daniel and him when is around his football buddies and their girlfriends. Now hes a third wheel by himself. Now before we head out I have some things to go over, my grandma said as soon as everybody had met up together downstairs, First of all, girls you will be with me so that I can pay for your dresses, shoes, and accessories together. Oooh accessories, Nikki whispered to over to me, but seeing my blank facial expression added, Get excited Ty. This is a once in a life time opportunity for me. I faked a smile and tried to get as excited as I possibly could. I tried a couple times looking over in Jesses direction to get his attention, but every time I did he would look at me for a second or two before looking down at the floor. As for the boys (Jesse and Daniel), my grandma said handing them some money, You will be with Charles, he will be there to help you pick out your tuxes and such, unless you would rather hang out with us girls. Seeing the boys shake their heads she continued, Very well then, I have given each one of 94

you three hundred dollars apiece. There is a lovely store called Davids Tuxes so you may go there if you wish to rent a tux, but use your money wisely. So if there are no questions, I will guess that you are all ready to leave? grandma asked looking at each one of us. Yes were ready, Nikki said, Lets go; I can barely stand to wait here any longer. With that we headed to grandmas limo and left. After driving for about twenty-five minutes we finally reached our destination. This is the stop for the girls, my grandma said waiting for the driver to come around and open the door, Boys the driver will continue to drive you downtown to your destined place. Since you will have the limo, if there is any other place that you would like to go, please feel free to go, but please remember to stay with Charles. I will call the driver when we are ready to leave, so that you all can come back to pick us up. Now, come along girls. Taylor have I mentioned how much I LOVE your grandmother? Nikki asked getting out of the limo. Only every second of everyday this week, I replied smiling. Oh, well in that case I wont tell you how much I love her.but I do. Girls, my grandma said interrupting our conversation, Suzeys is this way. Suzeys was a dress boutique made especially for these types of occasions; they had almost every type of dress you could imagine. Short, long, skinny, big, puffy, non-puffy, sparkly, need I go on? That wasnt the least of it, for every dress there were shoes to go perfectly with each one of them, high heels, low heels, no heels, even tennis shoes for those girls who 95

hate dressing up. I stood there in awe of the store for a while when I heard someone shriek, and of course the shriek came from no one other than Nikki. Ty! Have you seen this dress? Its gorgeous, is it not? Its definitely very gorgeous, I said in agreement. The dress was one of the prettiest red dresses I had ever seen. It was cut semi-low in the front and had straps that wrapped around from the front to the back. In the back there was a zigzag where the straps met up and below that was a zipper. It was also long and slender, not puffy as Nikki had originally intended, but beautiful nonetheless. I thought you were aiming for an orange dress? Well you see I wasbut then I found this one? What do you think? Couldnt you just die?! Die? For a dress? I dont think so, but it is nice, I said. You think Daniel will like it? she asked looking at the dress again. If he doesnt, hes crazy. I said grinning. Good answer. Try it on. Will you come over with me and make sure it looks alright? Of course, I said following her to the dressing rooms. As I waited for Nikki to change into her dress I spotted the twins arguing about the exact same pair of dresses. Whoa, I said walking over to them, Whats going on here? Katie got the same dress I picked up and she wont put it back, Karol said pointing at Katie. 96

I got my dress before Karol even found hers, so why should I have to put mine back? Katie asked. Well, I said looking down at the pair of simple black dresses the twins had picked out, If you both like the dress so much, why dont both of you get it? No way! Karol shouted, Mom made us wear the same outfits for years until we finally got to pick out our own clothes. There is no way Im going to go to the ball looking exactly like someone else. If I cant wear this dress, then I wont wear any dress. Fine, Katie said putting her dress back on the racket, If you want the dress so bad you can have it. Its not even that pretty anyway. If you didnt think it was pretty, then why did you pick it out in the first place? Karol asked. Because I thought it was nice and simple, but I didnt know that youd be such a big baby about wanting to wear it. So Ill find another dress to wear. Well thengood, Karol said walking off to find my grandma. Ty, will you help me to find a dress? Katie asked innocently after Karol was out of earshot. Under one condition. You have to help me to find a dress too? I said smiling down at her. Deal. Excuse me, Nikki said coming out of the dressing room, How do I look? Wow Nikki you look amazing, Katie said in awe. Shes right Nik, you look beautiful. Who knew red was your color? Really? You think so? Nikki asked looking at herself in the outside mirror.

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Definitely. Thanks Ty. I guess Ill get out of it now, she said spinning around once more. Okay, I said, Im going to help Katie look for a dress. My grandmas at the checkout stand if you need her. Has your grandmother found a dress yet? Nikki asked. Youre kidding right? My grandma has almost as many dresses of different styles as this store does. She doesnt need anymore. That has got to be quite a closet. What did you think was in room D? I asked. Wait. So your grandma has an entire room full of dresses? Yeah. Well she cant host all of her dinner party wearing the same dress twice, I said in response. She is so lucky, Nikki said heading back into her dressing room. I wasnt kidding either. As many parties as my grandma hosted that was exactly how many dresses she owned. Which was definitely about a hundred or more? After my grandpa died when I was eight, she hosted more dinner parties than ever to keep herself occupied and her mind off of grandpa. Since she had finally reached over a hundred dresses, she decided to go back through them and wear them again. Since there was no possible way, that someone has remembered the first dress she ever wore, right? You ready Katie? I asked looking down at Katie. Yep. Okay, lets find you that perfect dress, I said walking with Katie by my side.

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Chapter 13
After walking around Suzeys for half an hour we finally did find that perfect dress. It was a simple little short blue dress. It looked almost exactly like the black dress that the twins had been fighting over earlier, except this one was shorter and was sleeveless. I on the other hand never did find a dress that caught my eye. So what are you going to wear? Nikki asked me when we were back in the limo, on the way back to grandmas house. I dont know, I said looking at my grandmother, maybe we can go look at another store in town tomorrow before the dance? I do not see why not Taylor, as long as it is early in the morning. We still have a lot to do before the dance tomorrow night. Thanks grandma. SoNikki said looking at Daniel and Jesse, What kind of tuxes did you guys get? Well I got a tux, but Jesse didnt, Daniel said looking at Jesse. Are you too good for a tux Jesse? Nikki asked. No. I had already bought a suit from home, so I didnt need to rent a tux. So what did you do with the money? Nikki asked curiously. Jesse and Daniel exchanged a quick glance, but neither of them said anything for the next few seconds. I spent it wisely, dont worry about it Nikki, Jesse said fingering something in his pocket. 99

That must have been one expensive tie, Nikki said. What makes you think he bought a tie, I asked. What else could he have bought thats small enough to fit inside his pocket? I dont know, maybe he bought a pair of socks? I asked uneasily. Socks? Nikki asked me before turning to Jesse, Which one of us is closer Jesse did you by a pair of socks or a tie? Neither and I told you not to worry about it, Jesse said looking out the window. What else is small enough to fit inside his pocket? Nikki asked me as we continued our drive back to grandmas house. We finally made it back to grandmas house, put away the things we bought, and sat down for lunch. Then grandma decided that it was about time we started our chores. If you all start your chores now you should be done my supper time. You each only have a few chores and you will be done with them in no time at all. But please try to be done with all of them by five oclock sharp, that way I can check to make sure everything is complete, she finished before heading off to the kitchen. I looked down at my chore list that grandma had given to me earlier. I was supposed to: Help wash the dishes, clean the stables and brush the horses (spending time with the horsesmy favorite job!), and check to make sure that the ballroom dance floor had been shined and buffed. The ballroom dance floor that my grandma owned was enormously huge. It was downstairs, but you wouldnt find it unless you went into the parlor, 100

walked all the way to the back, and through a hidden door behind a bookshelf. My grandma hadnt used the ballroom in years, because it always brought back the last dance she shared with grandpa. But when you walked into the ballroom it looked like the room in Cinderellas castle. Beautiful and big, with chandeliers, tan colored painted walls, chairs lined up against the back of the room in case someone got tired of dancing and wanted to sit down, not to mention a little section off to the left side of the ballroom that lead out to the garden. You had to give my grandpa his props. So, I decided that after helping, Carol the kitchen attendant, that I would head to the stables and spend a few hours out there before dinner, which is exactly what I did. As soon as I had finished drying the last dish I rushed as fast as I could out to the stables. It wasnt on my list, but I decided that I would ride Jasmine for a little while (since I hadnt gotten a chance to ride her all week), before it got to dark. But as soon as I had reached the stables I found that someone had already beaten me out there. Dont you have any horses of your own? I asked Tyler jokingly. Like my mom would let me get a horse, nah, I think Im going to keep coming over to keep Jasmine company. WellI guess thats okay. As long as Jasmine doesnt die from all those apples you keep feeding her, I said looking at the apple in his hand. I promise she wont die. So what are you up to? Well Im supposed to clean the stables and brush the horses, but I thought Id go for a ride before I get started.

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Mind if I come with you? he said walking towards the saddles. Sure. Why not? Its not like either one of us has had the time to ride this week anyway. Exactly, and this will make up for all that lost time, he said smiling. We saddle up my dads old horse Trigger and Jasmine, and then we were off. At the moment I didnt care where we were going or how long wed be gone. I had forgotten how the wind felt blowing through my short black hair. It was amazing. The way Jasmine galloped off into the distance not caring where she was going or what could happen to her. Have you ever ridden a horse? I dont know how to explain the feelingits like all the worries and problems that you had before you were on the horse, seize to exist. I felt as if though I didnt have a worry in the world and that nothing could bring me down. But all of those worries and cares came back, when we decided to stop at a little creek about three miles from the house. As I unloaded Jasmine, I was brought back to the first time I met Tyler. Do you remember this place? Tyler asked taking in the scenery. How could I forget? I said taking a seat on the grass, It was the first time we met. Yeah, I had gotten upset with my dad about something and decided that Id be better off without him. So I ran away, Tyler said taking a seat next to me. Howd that work out for you? I asked. Well you know pretty good, up until the second when you and your dad found me out here by myself and forced me to go back home.

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How could we not, I asked, It was seven oclock in the evening and you were three miles from your house. Yeah, well. It was nice to get away. Yeah, I said looking at the fish jumping in and out of the pond water, I still cant believe you ran three miles away from home at nine years of age. Youre telling me. I still cant believe I did it, he said with a laugh. But ever since that day, this has always been our place, I said lying down on my back. Always. It had actually been quite an interesting day. My dad and I had been riding just to check out the scenery when we came upon this little boy about my age. My dad had said, Taylor, stay on the horse. Ill check it out. He did of course only to learn that Tyler had run away from his dad because his dad had been accusing his mom of having an affair. When he tried to intervene, his dad yelled at him. My dad let Tyler ride his horse with him, and after riding back for three miles, we made it back to grandmas house. Then we had to walk next door to return Tyler to his parents, who were more than grateful to learn that we had found him. You know whats weird though? Tyler asked. Whats that? My dad accused my mom of having an affair, when in all reality it was my dad who was having the affair, Tyler said quietly. And he was trying to hide it by blaming it on your mom? I suppose so. I never found out about it until a year after their divorce and my dad kept bringing 103

over Vanessa. She was telling me about how much she loved my dad and how these last five years with him had been amazing. Then to top it all off she went on to say how she was happy that they could finally be together since my parents had gotten a divorce. No wonder you cant stand her. Yeah. We sat in silence for the next couple of minutes thinking about the conversation we had had about his family and taking in the breathtaking scenery until Tyler broke the silence. So, Tyler asked, are you ready for tomorrow? Should I be? Well yeah, Tyler said lying next to me, I thought all you girls were getting all dressed up and fancy for tomorrow nights ball. Not all, I said shaking my head; I have yet to find a dress. You wouldnt believe how hard it is to find one that you like. Maybe you will end up being like Cinderella and youre fairy godmother will magically give you one, Tyler said deep in thought. Please dont go there. Im not in the mood for any fairytale stories right now. But you never know. I mean they could be on to something, there was laughter in his voice, the twins are your mice or birds, Nikki is the fairy godmother, I could be your carriage driver. Wait what about your evil stepsister? Ive already got one, I answered, She goes to my school back in Indiana, Jesses ex-girlfriend. Oh, well then youve got pretty much everybody. Maybe you really will have a Cinderella fairytale. I doubt it. 104

Then Jesse can be your prince charming, he said with a smirk. Excuse me? He likes you Ty, and if I didnt know any better Id think you liked him too. Well then, its a good thing you dont know any better. Ty, can you honestly tell me that you dont like him. Yes, I can. And that you have no idea, not the slightest clue, that he likes you back. Wouldnt believe it, even if he came up to me and told me himself. Wow. Someone must have hurt you deep. What are you talking about? Listen Ty, its clear that Jesse loves you, but there must be a reason that youre not allowing him in on that level. Ive seen the way he looks at you when you come his way, or when you walk into the kitchen. You catch him off guard and he cant help but to wonder what it is about you that makes him feel that way. And youve talked about this with him have you? No, but Im very observant. So what is it Ty? What is keeping you from liking Jesse? So what about you? I asked changing the subject, Are you bringing anyone special your Cinderella to the ball tomorrow night? Youre avoiding the questioninteresting. I looked away and waited for his response, Yeah Im going to bring a friend with me. Were not dating or anything, but I like her a lot and who knows maybe well seal the deal tomorrow night.

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Are you buying a house or getting a girlfriend? You know what I mean. So I answered your question are you going to answer mine? Whats holding you back Ty? You know when my parents died I prayed and read my bible every day. I prayed for patience, patience to get through the day without feeling lonely or homesick, and when I did start to feel really homesick Id call my grandma and tell her to tell me stories of my parents to help keep the memory of them alive, then the next day I pray the same thing. I usually read Matthew-John when Jesus is trying to explain to his followers and disciples the things to come in the world and that he is the son of God. Because when Jesus was trying to tell his disciples those things, he needed patience too, because his disciples didnt understand a single thing that he said. Did it help you? To read and pray? So much, I try not to miss a single day, God has helped me enormously through this time, and thered be no way that I couldve made it these two years in the Parker house without him. Hes my refuge. Wait, so what does this have to do with Jesse? I dont know. Its just what happened to come across my mind. Well there must be a reason for it. If you find out what it is let me know.

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Chapter 14
After Tyler and I had finally made our way back to grandmas we parted ways. He went back to his house and I went back to doing my chores. I was walking out of the ballroom and into the parlor when I bumped into Jesse. Hey, long time no see, I said jokingly. Youre telling me, so why have you been avoiding me all week? he said laughing. Me avoiding you, noI think its you thats been avoiding me. I dont think soask anyone. Believe me, I said smiling, I will. Good. Then youll know that I was right. So what are you up to? Nothing now, I finished my last chore on my list, I said waving my paper around in the air. Thats not fair, he said looking down at his paper, I still have to finish cleaning the parlor. Well...have fun. Unlesssomeone wants to help me, he said not taking his gaze off me. I guess, I said with a fake sigh, Itll make up for you ignoring me these past few days. You still have it wrong Ty, he said picking up a pillow and tossing it at me. Really, are you trying to start up a pillow fight with me? No! I couldnt imagine messing up your grandmothers precious furniture, he said sarcastically. Funny. So I have a question for you?

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Whats that? What did you buy with the money my grandma gave you? I cant say, promised myself Id keep it a secret. From who? Everyone, he said laughing, but dont worry everyone will find out in due time. Promise? Yes maam. When the right time comes everyone will find out what it is. The right time? I asked excitedly, Oh my goodness Jesse!! Whos the girl? I cant believe youre getting married! What? No Im not! Rightsure youre not. Dont deny your feelings Jesse, I said tossing the pillow back at him. Dont you think Id have to be in a relationship first, before I can even think about marriage? I suppose youre right, well thats a letdown. I was going to help plan the wedding, I said laughing as I started to expand my hands, Flowers everywhere even on the groom. As long as theyre Jasmine flowers, Jesse said pointing to the flowers sitting in the window sill. Of course, they have to be Jasmine what other option is there? I asked with a smile. Well if you really want to know? Please dont. Let me think, there are Lillys, Roses, Tulips, Daffodils It took us about half an hour but we finally finished cleaning and straightening up the parlor, right in time for dinner too. Grandma said that the cooks had the evening off because they had a full day 108

ahead of them tomorrow, so we were on our own for dinner. So what are we going to do for dinner? Daniel asked as he listened to his stomach growl. You have two options, grandma said to us as we surrounded her in the living room. You can either order out for dinner. There are a few places still open that will deliver or you can feel free to cook your dinner. I say we just order out for pizza, Nikki said, Itll probably be faster. Or, I said looking over at Jesse, we can always make dinner. Are you thinking what Im thinking? Jesse asked as a smile formed across his face. Yep. Hamburgers! Yeah hamburgers! Karol said excitedly. Splendid. Well Taylor you know where everything is located so feel free to use whatever you like. But remember to put everything back where you got it and dont forget to clean up after yourself, grandma said. Yes maam, thank you grandma, I said as she turned to leave the room. Do we have to help? Nikki asked finding a seat on the couch. You dont have to help us cook Nik, but can you guys take some of the supplies upstairs for me? What kind of supplies? Karol asked. Paper plates, silverware, napkins, stuff like that? Sure thing Ty, where are they located? Nikki asked. In the kitchen, I said turning to face that direction, follow me.

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We walked into the kitchen and I went to the storage closet where grandma always kept the paper supplies. I grabbed seven of everything in case we needed extras and handed them to Nikki, the twins and Daniel. Okay you guys can take these upstairs to room M and then you can pick out a movie for us to watch while we eat, I said. Come on guys, Nikki said as she headed out the kitchen door with the others following close behind her. Does your grandma have a grill? Jesse asked me after the others had left. Yeah its out on the patio. If you reach the garden youve gone too far. Great! Ill start the grill up and you can bring the patties out when youre finished preparing them. Yes sir, I said, And dont forget to turn the patio lights on, its the last switch to the right on your way out the door. I finished preparing the hamburger patties I brought them outside to the grill. The grill had been started and the coals were beginning to glow a bright red. Thank you, Jesse said when I had handed them over to him. Youre welcome. Jesse carefully placed the patties on the grill, closed the grill cover then turned to face me. This is really a nice grill station your grandmother has. I would love to have one like it at home. I glad its covered though. Cooking in the rain would be no fun. I laughed as I looked up at the clear evening sky only to feel a drop of water hit my face.

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Is it raining? Didnt Charles say that it would be pretty and clear all day? I asked as I felt another drop of rain hit my face. I guess he was listening to the wrong weather station, Jesse said looking at me, and the sun is still shining. Maybe itll pass. Maybe. I watched Jesse flipped the burgers over, before he said, So what are we eating with the burgers? I dont know. What would you like to eat with the burgers? Just in case youre wondering, Im not making any potato salad, I said with a laugh. Well then, how about some chips? Ill see what I can find, I said as I started walking back towards the house. I searched through all the cabinets in the kitchen before I found a bag of barbecue and plain potato chips. Apparently Grandma had gotten Carol to move everything since the last time I was here because nothing was in the same place, except for the silverware, her cooking pans, and my old picnic basket. What did you find? Jesse asked when I went back outside. Potato chips, plain and barbecue. That works for me, Jesse said as rain began to fall steadily harder. Hey come here, he said as he grabbed my arm and pulled me under the awning. Thanks, but I dont mind getting wet, I said looking as the rain suddenly began let up and return to a drizzle. I know, but that doesnt mean that I want you to get wet, he said noticing that his hand was still around my arm, Sorry. Its okay, I said looking up at him.

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Well these hamburgers are just about done. Are you ready to take them inside? Sure, but I dont want them to get wet. Its about a thirty second walk from here to the door. What about I run with the burgers inside? A little water wont hurt and you can come in after me? Alright, I said. Here take my jacket, it has a hood on it, Jesse said as he began to remove his jacket to give to me. But wont you need it? I asked as I took it from him. Ill survive, he said looking at me once more and running off in the rain. I turned off the grill and ran as I soon as I saw that he had entered the house. We shook the rain off ourselves and dabbed the little bit of water that had hit the patties with a paper towel. See I told you, it didnt ruin them. I guess youre rightI doubt Nikki and the others will mind being the first to try our infamous rain burgers, I said laughing. Rain burgers? he looked at me and grinned. If you say so. We placed the burgers in the oven while we started to cut up some lettuce, onions, and tomatoes. After we had finished chopping everything up we placed the patties, buns, both bags of chips, vegetables, and condiments inside my old picnic basket that I took down from the cabinet. Do we have any cheese? Jesse asked when I had finally closed my basket. There should be some in the refrigerator, I said as I watched Jesse walk towards the fridge. He looked inside and soon found a package of unopened white American cheese. 112

Will this work? Jesse asked It shouldcheese is cheese, I said opening the basket for him to place the cheese inside. After we had closed the basket again we began to head upstairs to join the others. Its about time, Nikki and Daniel greeted us with when we opened the door to room M the movie room. Why are you guys wet? Is it raining? Nikki asked. Its more like a light shower, I said answering her question. Oh. So what did you bring? Nikki asked taking the picnic basket from my hand and placing it on the table. We took turns going to the small table that was set up in the room until everyone had gotten their food. It was made for placing a bowl or two of popcorn on, but we made it work. Nikki said that Daniel had decided on Final Destination, but Nikki and the twins decided on Pride & Prejudice. The girls over ruled the boys so we won, and as we sat on the couches that surrounded the screen and watched the movie as best as we could while we ate our hamburgers. But you couldnt help but to hear Daniels outrageous remarks. This movie is so lame, if he likes the girl so much why doesnt he tell her? Why does he have to keep staring at her longingly from a distance? he asked. Didnt you hear what Elizabeth said, I remarked, she said that he should take his grandmothers advice and practice. Thats what hes trying to do. If youve never seen Pride & Prejudice its about this guy named Mr. Darcy who happens to be in 113

love with this girl named Elizabeth Bennet. However, Mr. Darcy is really shy and he keeps to himself a lot. While Ms. Bennet is outspoken and doesnt mind speaking whats on her mind. So basically if Mr. Darcy wants to even think about getting together with Ms. Bennet he has to come out of his shell and tell her how he really feels. Which he eventually does, I mean it only takes him a couple of years. But if he likes her as much as he seems to, then why cant he tell her about his feelings? Daniel was asking. Daniel! He does tell her, I mean it takes him a little while, but he tells her. You know not everybody is as outgoing as you are, Nikki replied. Plus, men back then didnt go walking up to the girl they were crushing on and go, Hey I like you. Do you like me, because if you do Id really like to know? Thanks. No! They were civil about it. They went to the parents first and asked for their permission and then courted with their daughter until marriage, I said. Nikki sighed beside me, Hes making us miss the movie. You should tell him that, I said looking at the screen. Like hed listen to me. Hey, is that my brothers jacket youre wearing? I looked down and realized that I was still wearing Jesses jacket from earlier. I had forgotten to give it back and he hadnt asked for it. Ummyeah. Well you see it was raining and Jesse You dont have to explain anything to me Ty, Nikki said as she smiled and turned her attention back to the screen. 114

Well thats stupid. Why would he do a stupid thing like that? Daniel was asking. Because he has respect for her, Jesse said as he hit Daniel over the head. Hey! Daniel said rubbing the spot where Jesse hit him. Also, because thats a better way to a girls heart, than half the things guys do now days, Jesse continued. Jesse had grown so much since the first month after he had given his life to Christ. I mean he still did the same things he use to but after a while, he let those things go and started to read his bible more. I guess it might have had something to do with that conversation we had one. night. It was about a month after he had given his life to Christ. Jesse? I had asked when I found him sitting in the kitchen looking for something to eat, What does being a Christian mean to you? Why? Jesse asked finding a bag of chips and opening the bag. Because I want to know your definition of being a Christian, so whats your answer? I dont know, he said stuffing a chip into his mouth, I guess giving your life to Christ and accepting him as your Lord and savior. Is that it? Is there more? he asked eating another chip.

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Yes a lot more. Like are you bearing good fruit or bad fruit? Are you living the way that Jesus would want you to live? Are you being an example to the others around you? Are you spreading the gospel to your friends and family? Are you taking up your cross daily? Are you reading your bible daily? He swallowed, Isnt that a lot to be asking of a guy? I only got saved a month ago. Yes and in that month what have you done for the kingdom of heaven? Are you storing your riches in Heaven or on Earth? Umm He put down his bag of chips, I dont think I have an exact answer for that. You know if you ever need help, Im always here. Maybe I can help you to find the answer, I said before grabbing a bottle of apple juice out of the fridge and heading into the living room. You know, I like having Ty in the house, I heard Mrs. Parker say as I left the room and she entered, shes a good influence on the family. She even asked me to come to church this coming Sunday. Are you? I heard Jesse ask. Yes. We all are, she said. He had actually learned a lot since that time. We had bible studies on a daily basis and he was always asking questions and wanting to know more about the kingdom of Heaven. He even invited some of his friends off the football team to church with us one Sunday, they didnt come of course. But that 116

didnt mean that Jesse gave up, he asked them until they finally did come, and they of course enjoyed it. Now if I could only get Nikki to feel the same way. The movie had finished and we were all beginning to head to our rooms to get ready for bed. Hey, I said as Jesse passed me, I think this belongs to you, I said taking off his jacket and handing it back to him. I guess it does, I forgot you had it. So did I, I said smiling. Jesse looked at the jacket in his hands and back to me for a second. He held his gaze with me as if he wanted to say something, but he never got the chance. Come on Ty, were sleeping in your room tonight, Nikki said coming up and pulling me by the arm. Alright, I said looking away from Jesse to look at Nikki. Good night Jesse, Nikki said dragging me behind her. Good night, I mouthed back to him only to see him mouth it back to me in unison. So, Nikki asked when we got to my room. Whered you go earlier? When? I asked as I began to change into my pajamas. When you were supposed to be cleaning the stables? I went out to look for you, but you and Jasmine were gone. Oh, that, I said, Tyler and I went for a ride. Really what happened? Details please, she said asked making a seat for herself on my bed. Nothing, we were talking about the ball tomorrow. He believes that I should try harder to 117

convince myself that I might possibly be a second Cinderella. Interestinganything else? Ummwell he did say something about some girl that hes bringing for his date tomorrow night, I said sitting down beside her. Who is she? I dont know. He didnt tell me her name, just something about that he might officially ask her out tomorrow. Thats exciting, so who did he think your prince charming was? He thinks its Jesse. See Ty, everyone sees that Jesse likes you, but were waiting for you to finally come to your senses and admit it. Well I hope everyone has a lot of time on their hands, because I suspect that you will be waiting a long time. Ty? Why dont you like Jesse? Nikki asked as she got up and began to help herself to a pair of my pajamas. What are you talking about? I do like Jesse. Not in the way Im talking about. Did he do something? Nikki listen to me. Jesse did nothing, we are friends nothing more and I like it like that. Okay? Okay, Nikki said defeated. I laid down and stared up at my ceiling, it was purple like my walls. When I was little my grandma use to think that purple was my favorite color so she went a little crazy and decorated my room purple and bought everything in the color purple. I didnt have the heart to tell her that my favorite color was green; it probably would have broken her heart.

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Ty? Nikki said lying down beside me on the bed. Yeah. When you were younger did you ever use to think that this place was a castle, because if I were you I would have been convinced that it was one? Yeah I did, I said answering Nikkis question, Tyler and I would play this game where I was the damsel in distress and he was my prince charming coming to save me. We didnt have dragons so he had to fight Joseph and the other servants downstairs until he finally made it up to the attic. I wasnt the easiest princess to find in the attic, because as soon as I heard him coming I changed our game into a game of hide and seek. So he would have to hunt for me. Sometimes he found meother times he didnt. Maybe you forgot how the game worked, but the prince is supposed to find you. I know. But even though I was only around ten and eleven at the time, I didnt want Tyler to be my prince, my knight in shining armor, I thought that role should go to someone else. But since Tyler was the only boy in the house at the time Who did you think he should be? I dont know, all I knew was that it wasnt going to be Tyler. Thats why I hid so much. Did he ever find you? Sometimes he did, but it wasnt very often, and when he couldnt find me my dad would. Did you mind your dad being your prince charming? Nikki said with a laugh. I loved it whenever my dad was my prince. I would have taken him over a real prince any day.

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You know, its a good thing you were never really a princess. Why do you say that? You wouldve been extremely picky. Your prince would have never found you. Its not that Im picky, I said thoughtfully, Its just that I want the real thing, a happily ever after and all the ups and down that come with it. I dont want it to be with just anyone.

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Wednesday: March 10 Dear Diary, I had fun today making hamburgers with Jesse, it reminded me of the first time that we made hamburgers together. It was four years before my parents had died. Jesse and Nikkis parents had gone out of town one weekend and asked my parents if it was okay if they stayed with us during that time. My parents agreed since it was only the two of them because the twins were only four at this time and they were going to Delaware with their parents. Nikki and I were up in my room watching TV when my dad came and knocked on my door. Hey Ty? Yeah dad? I had asked looking away from the TV to focus on him. Im about to make dinner did you want to help me out? Sure! What are we making? I was thinking hamburgers. What do you think? Hamburgers? Jesse asked coming out of the bathroom. Yeah, my dad said turning to face Jesse, how does that sound? Great! Jesse said. What about you Ty? Yeah that sounds good, I said turning to face Nikki, Nikki do you want to help us make some? Im not really in the mood to cook, Nikki said not looking away from the television screen. The Parker kids were only allowed to watch television on weekends after they had finished their homework, so when the weekend came Nikki was always the first to

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finish her homework and last to leave the television set. Can I help? Jesse began to ask my dad. Sure thing kiddo, my dad said as he headed into the kitchen. We followed close behind my dad as he began to take the meat from the refrigerator and a few sauces from the pantry. I think this is the perfect time for the two of you to practice your cooking skills. So heres what well do. If youll make the hamburgers, Ill put them on the grill and let them cook. Sound like a plan? my dad asked. Yes sir, Jesse and I replied as we watched my dad as he began to cut open the plastic that covered the meat. Do you remember how I taught you to flatten the meat Ty? Yes sir, I said going opening a drawer to find the spatula. Okay. Make sure all the patties are flattened. How many should we make? Six ought to be enough, I bet Jesse and I could both go for a double meatam I right? Yes sir! Jesse said enthusiastically. Turning to me he said, So what goes on the patties? I like to put onion powder on them, because it gives it a good taste, I said reaching for the shaker. Ewe, no way. I dont like onions, but Ive seen my mom put garlic powder and some salt and pepper on hers and it always turns out good. Garlic? Yuck! Well Im not doing onion, Jesse said crossing his arms. And Im not doing garlic, I said crossing my arms mockingly. 122

So are we just going to have salt and pepper on the patties? my dad asked as he began to head outside to the grill. Maybe we can compromise? Jesse said. Meaning what? We can use both garlic and onion. It cant turn out too bad can it? I sighed as I glanced over to the two shakers, Fine, well use both. And so we did. I flattened out the patties while Jesse sprinkled salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder on them. After we had finished we gave the finished patties to my dad to put on the grill and after they had finished grilling we ate. These are amazing! Samuel did you make these? my mom asked my dad. No maam these are a Jesse and Ty one of a kind hamburger, my dad with a wink over to us. Well props to you both, these are spectacular. Whats the secret? You just have to know how to compromise, Jesse said before taking a huge bite out of his hamburger. Thinking back to that memory makes me smile. Ever since that day thats the only way Jesse and I will make our hamburgers. And ever since we always get compliments on the flavor of the patty, but as far as we know no one but my dad knows the secret ingredient. Although its not hard to figure it out, you just have to use a little bit of this and a little bit of that.

Taylor!

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Chapter 15
Why didnt anyone wake me up? I asked when I came running into the kitchen in my pajamas. It was Thursday morning the day of the ball. As I had come down the stairs I saw the servants and other people I didnt know making last minute preparations to the ball room and entrance. But I still couldnt understand why my grandma hadnt awakened me to go look for a dress. We tried, Katie said coming over beside me, But you wouldnt budge. Yeah we screamed in your ear and everythingbut you were knocked out like sleeping beauty, Karol commented. Im starting to think the twins read far too many fairytale stories. Are you sure? Of course Im sure, but I think your grandma said something about going to the store with Nikki to pick out your dress, Katie said. I cant believe they went without me, I said dragging my feet over to an empty seat at the kitchen table. Sorry Ty. But we really did try to wake you. I know, its okay. But I wish that Whoa! Nice pajamas, Daniel said entering the kitchen. I looked down at my pajamas. They were Winnie the Pooh pants and an Eeyore shirt with a picture of Eeyore plastered on the front. I didnt think they looked so bad, it had been a Valentines Day present from my mom.

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What? Dont you like them, I asked curiously. Oh yeah, Daniel said grabbing a roll off the breakfast table, Please, the next time you go shopping for pajamas, get me a pair. Ill make sure to remember that, I said getting up to leave. Wait Ty, I wasnt serious. Sorry, you already asked, and its no trouble Daniel, Id love to get you a matching boy pair, I said laughing as I left the kitchen. I was walking up the stairs and down the hall to my room when I ran into Jesse. Literally I ranstraightintohim. Dude, he said after I backed up from him, We have got to stop meeting like this. What would the twins say? Say to what? The fact that both of us are apparently blind and dont watch where were going? I asked smiling. That or the fact that you keep running into me, because youre obviously dying to ask me a something, he said with a grin. Obviously, so what question would I want to ask you? How should I know? I cant read your mind. Thats true. If you could we wouldnt be having all this trouble with running into each other. Tell me about it, he said walking past me, Do you know what were having for breakfast? Biscuits, grits, and sausage I think. Well that is if Daniel hasnt eaten it all already. Thanks for the heads up. I guess Ill head down and salvage what I can.

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You do that, I said walking towards my room. UmmTy? Jesse asked when I had reached my room. Yeah. Can I ask you something? Of course, what is it? Whats up with your pajamas? he asked pointing to Pooh bear. They were a gift from my mom and I dont care what anyone says I like them, I responded defensively. No, its not that, he said pointing to my hip, I think you sat in something. I looked down at my pants and sure enough I had a grit stain on my pants. Apparently, I had sat in the seat that Katie had gotten up from and I sat in her leftovers. Great! Just great! I said opening my door and walking into my room. It was about an hour and a half later before Nikki and grandma got back. I had been journaling the events of my week. When Nikki burst open my door and laid a box on my bed. Whats this? I asked staring at the box. Youre dress. Open it, she said excitedly. I opened the box to find a pale orange dress. It was cut low in the front and fully covered in the back; it was long and had one strap that attached from the left side to the right. It was beautiful, but also two sizes bigger than me. Ummits nice Nik. But why is it so big? Well Nikki said taking a seat in my computer chair, apparently your grandma invited a lot of people to this ball. So basically to sum it all up all the small dress sizes were gone. 126

You cant be serious. I wish I wasnt, but I am. We couldve gone to another store in town, but youre grandma wanted to hurry and get back. Im sorry you can always try to fit into that one. I looked down at the dress in my hand, then at the box, and back at Nikki. There is no way I can fit into this. Its huge. Well your grandma did offer to tailor it for you and make it smaller? I sighed deeply, Theres no point. Then what are you going to wear? Nikki asked leaning forward in the chair and leaning on her hands. Well if I dont have a dress then I guess I cant go, I said solemnly. Thats stupid. You have to go. How else is your prince charming supposed to find you? Do you expect him to come up here? Nikki for once in your life would you stop with the prince charming fantasy! This is not a fairytale, Im not Cinderella and youre not my fairygod mother! Ty, I know, but Look at me. I said looking down at myself. Im a mess. I sat in grits, I cant find a dress that fits, and Im wearing Eeyore pajamas. Tyare you feeling okay? You know you can tell me right? Why was I freaking out now? Maybe its because the ball is in a few hours and I still didnt have a dress. Then theres also the fact that I unlike Nikki, Katie, and Karol didnt have a date to the dance. It was all too much to take in. Nothing, I said putting the dress back in the box, Im fine. 127

No youre not, so tell me whats going on. Nothing, I said moving back my covers and getting back into the bed, I want to be left alone, alright? Okay, Nikki said getting up to leave, Well if you need anything let me know. I will, I said bundling up into a ball and closing my eyes. I heard the door shut and after a minute or two I was sleeping yet again. When I opened my eyes I was back at home with my parents. They hadnt died in that terrible jet crash and left me to live with the Parkers. No they were in the house sitting on the couch watching a rerun of a Steelers vs. Patriots football game. As I stood there watching them watch TV, I saw my mom turn around. When she saw me staring at her she came up to me and gave me a big hug. Ty honey whats the matter? she asked wiping a tear from my eye. Its nothing. No, somethings wrong. What is it? she asked as she sat me down at the kitchen table. I looked at her and then at the surrounding area. We had had such a simple little house and lifestyle, a small one story house with three bedrooms. One for them, one for me, and a game room for my dad and I. I looked around for my bird, Starburst, but she was nowhere to be found. I guess this must have been after my dad started wanting no animals in the house, well all animals but fish. I looked at my mom again and burst into tears, I dont know whats going on with me. Grandma went shopping without me and the dress that they found for me was too big, and I dont have a date to the dance tonight. Then everyone keeps telling me 128

that Jesse likes me, but I cant believe it, apparently theres something holding me back, but I dont know what it is. Its all too much, I said reaching up to hold her, never wanting to let go. As I held on to my mom I caught a whiff of her perfume. She was wearing the perfume that she always had, I never knew the name of it, but it had a faded flowery scent. I use to be so in love with her perfume that I sprayed it on all of my Barbie dolls when I was younger. Every time I smell that perfume I always think of my momand my Barbie dolls. Shhh, she said whispering into my hair, Itll be okay. How? Because I think I might have an answer for some of your problems. I sniffed and leaned back to look at her, Really? Yes, let me think. Now with Jesse, do you know for a fact that he likes you? No, but everyone keeps saying he does even Tyler who just met him less than a week ago. Well Ty, I cant tell you how Jesse feels, but I can help you with your feelings. You want to tell me why youre afraid to let Jesse in? I dont know! Think about it sweetie, whats holding you back? I dont know! Itsever since you and dad leftand hes been so kind to mebut what if it doesnt work out I said between sobs. I think I understand, she said wiping my tears, Youre afraid that since dad and I left, that if you begin to like Jesse hell leave too? Or that something will take him from you?

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What if he does? I cant go through the pain anymore. He was there to help me with the loss of you and dad, but who will help me with the loss of him? Nikki? No shes too obsessed with Daniel. Grandma? No she lives here. The twins? Theyre too young. Who will help me? I asked looking at the ground. Taylor I want you to listen to me closely, understood? I nodded my head, and looked up. Nothing is going to happen to Jesse. God brought Jesse into your life when we died to help you get through that rough patch. He knew that Jesse was the person youd need to help you get through that trial, and if he has brought Jesse into your life for a longer period than isnt that something youd want? Wouldnt you rather have Jesse by your side with you to defeat all those trials together than to lose him and have to face them alone? Yes. Then dont fear sweetie, you have to tear down that wall that you have built up over the years, and allow a friend in to help you. No one is asking you to marry him or even to date him, just give him a chance. He might help you out even more than you would think. Okay? Yes maam. God will never leave you nor forsake you. Always remember that Ty, he knows the plans he has for you even when you dont. He has your best interests at heart. Now onto the matter of finding you a dress, I think your grandma might have an old one that I had from a while back stashed somewherewhy dont you ask her about it?

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Okay, I said wiping up the rest of my tears, Ive miss you so much mommy. You to daddy, I said looking in the living room at my dad. We miss you too Ty. But were always with you. Just remember that as long as you keep God first youll never be alone, my dad said turning down the volume on the television, and your mother is right about this whole Jesse situation. I always liked him so you have my blessing, just allow him in Ty, dont push him out or you might miss out on something incredibly amazing. Thanks daddy. I guess I just have to give it some time. Not too much time though. The ball is tonight. What does that have to do with anything? Just pointing out an obvious fact, my dad said as he turned back to the football game. I wish you were both still here, I said smiling over at my dad. We know honey, we miss you too, my mom cut in, But life goes on, and you have to remember that you are an example for others. Yeah I guess youre right, I hadnt thought about that. Thanks mommy. Ty! Ty! Wake up! Ty you have to wake up! The ball is in less than two hours, I heard Katie yelling into my ear, Ty Im not leaving this room until you wake up! I opened my eyes and looked up to see Katies face only a few inches from mine. How long had I been asleep? What was with that dream? It felt as if it were real, like God had sent my mom and dad to come down from Heaven to speak to me about my problems. Thank you, Jesus.

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Well its about time you woke up, Katie said looking relieved, Ive been calling your name for over ten minutes now. How long was I out? About six hours. Why were you so tired? I had a lot of things on my mind. Oh, Katie said sitting beside my leg, Are you feeling better now? Yes a lot better, Katie can I ask you something? Whats that? Have you seen my grandma? UmmI think shes downstairs making last minute changes to the dcor. Why? Katie replied looking towards my door. Do you think you could go down and get her for me? I need to ask her a question.

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Chapter 16
Grandma finally came up the stairs and I confronted her about my moms dress. She was shocked that I knew about it, apparently she had forgotten that she even had it. She told me it was in the attic and after rummaging through a few boxes we finally found it. It was BEAUTIFUL! It was a long, flowing, sparkly purple dress. It had straps and glitter at the bottom and top of the dress. It was something Id think a princess would wear. As I stared in awe of the dress grandma continued her hunt for my moms matching pair of shoes, which she eventually found. They were purple high heels with three straps along the front of the shoe, and imitation diamond studs along the straps. I couldnt believe that my mom had gotten this dress and never told me about it. Yes, my grandma said staring at the dress and shoes, It was her first dress she ever wore to a dance here. It was before you were born Taylor. Really? My mom went to one of your dances? But dad hates dancing. I know, I tried to get him to take dancing classes all through high school, but he never did. So eventually I stopped trying. So what made him decide to go to the dance? Your mom, grandma said thoughtfully, He loved your mom. You know that Taylor. I nodded in agreement. If there was one perfect couple in the world it would have to have been my parents. Sure they arguedwhat parents dont? But they loved each other unconditionally too. They kept God first and he continued to bless them 133

abundantly. My dad use to joke about how my mom would never leave him because she would never find happiness with any other man and it was true; my mom would never have left my dad for anyone else, she loved him too much, as much as he loved her. They were connected at the hipbasically, until death. Like the pastor says on the day of a marriage ceremony, Until death do you part. But even in spite of their death, they were still together. She begged and pleaded with him to take her to the dance, and then she threatened that she would fly down to Texas by herself if he did not go with her, my grandma was saying. What did he say? Nothing, he picked out a suit from his closet and called the airport for the next flight leaving for Texas. Your dad may have hated to dance Taylor, but he was not stupid. Tell me about it. When they were dancing on the ballroom floor, it really was magical. Talk about seeing Cinderella and her Prince Charming. That was your mom and dad. Thats so sweet, I said finding a seat on the attic floor. Yes, I use to love the way he would stare at her across the room, with love, compassion, and tenderness. Almost, my grandma said pausing to look at me, in the same way Jesse looks at you. I smiled remembering my conversation with my mom, Grandma- but she cut me off. Now I do not want to hear it Taylor. I know for a fact that the young man likes you, but the question is do you like him? Im working on one thing at a time right now grandma. 134

Excuse me? Its a long story. Youd have to ask my parents. Okay now I really am confused. Are you feeling alright Taylor? Better than I was, trust me, I said smiling. Grandma and I continued to talk for about another twenty minutes until she decided that it was time that we all got ready for the ball. I went back downstairs and knocked on Nikkis door only to see her open it wearing the red dress she had gotten the day before, but with her red shoes, make-up, necklace, and bracelets already on. Dude, I said staring in shock and awe, You do know that the ball isnt for another hour right? Yes, but I was so excited I couldnt wait. So, she said twirling around, How do I look? Truthfully, Nikki looked gorgeous. She had decided to straighten her brunette hair and let it flow down her back, where it reached midway. Her red eye shadow brought out her green eyes and everything else about was wellred. I suppose she wanted to match her dress. Amazing, I said at the same time as the twins did walking towards us, already in their dresses as well. Umm I said looking down at my pajamas and the dress in my arm, am I the only one who isnt ready? Yes, so get going. So that we can make you into the princess that you are, Nikki said directing me towards my room. I showered, brush my teeth again, flossed, painted my toenails and nails purple, and walked into my room in a tank top and shorts to find Nikki, and the twins sitting on my bed. 135

Well its about time, Nikki said, the ball starts in thirty minutes. Youre not even close to being ready. Umm I said still in shock that they were in my bedroom waiting on me. Come on Ty, Nikki said grabbing my arm and sitting me in my computer table chair, Im going to fix your hair into an amazing up do, and the twins are going to find some jewelry in my room that goes with your dress, which is amazing by the way. Yeah, I mumbled as I watched the twins leave my room, It was my moms. Well then I guess we know where you got your great taste in clothes from. Now sit still so I wont burn you with the curling iron. Curling iron? What are you planning on doing? Youll see. Hey Karol could you pass me that hairspray thats sitting on my dresser, she yelled into the next room. After what seemed like hours, Nikki and the twins were finally finished helping me to get ready. They helped me to put my moms dress on, the high heels, finished my hair (which I still hadnt been allowed to look at yet), and my silver locket that never left my neck. Wow Ty. You really are a princess, Katie said looking up at me in amazement. No kidding, Karol said next. Well almost, Nikki said crashing down on my parade, Its missing something. But I cant quite put my finger on it. Wait, Katie said snapping her fingers, I got it. She raced out of my room and into Nikkis. We heard a lot of commotion coming from the next 136

room, but no one budged. Finally, after a couple seconds Katie came rushing back in. Here you go, she said handing a pair of simple silver earrings to Nikki, You cant be a princess without earrings to match your necklace Ty. I mean they dont match perfectly, but theyll do. Shes right, Karol said in agreement. Now, Nikki said tucking a curl behind my ear, You can look at yourself in the mirror. I walked over to my dresser mirror to see an almost exact duplicate of my mom looking back at me. Its a good thing we were about the same size or I wouldve never been able to fit into her dress. But I did, and I looked amazing in it. I was a little lighter than my mom, from not being in the sun as much. But it didnt matter. Nikki had done an amazing job. My hair was in spiral curls, she had put some lip gloss on my lips to make them shine, the dress was as shiny as my lips, but more beautiful. Looking at myself in the mirror I almost cried. Its a good thing I had refused to let Nikki touch me with any make-up. I looked like an actual princess. Dont cry, Nikki said looking at me tearing up in the mirror, If you cry then Im going to cry. Then Ill cry, Karol added. Ditto, Katie continued. I wont cry, I said smiling, But Im so thankful I have you guys. I look stunning. There was a knock at the door, Karol went to answer it and my grandma came in. Well do not all of you look amazing, Taylor, she said coming over to look at me closer, You look like the spitting image of your mom. She would have loved to see you in her dress. Thank you grandma.

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Oh and one more thing, grandma said taking her right hand out from behind her back, I found the last piece to your outfit. This was your moms tiara. I watched through the reflection of the mirror as grandma gently settled the silver tiara with purple studs to my head. It was beautiful, but with all the purple I was wearing it was no wonder that grandma had thought my favorite color was purple in the past years. Taylor darling, you are the spitting image of your mother, grandma said. I know, I said holding back a tear, and grandma you look lovely in your dress as well. It was true, my grandma was wearing a white long dress that flared at the bottom, had long sleeves and it covered up everything. Talk about being modest. Thank you Taylor. Now, my grandma said walking back to the door, If you young ladies are ready I guess we should not keep the guys waiting any longer. Nikki, Daniel is waiting for you, - Katie, Jesse is waiting for you, - and Karol- Tyler is waiting foryou. Wait. Taylor, where is your date? I shook my head, I dont have one but, Im fine with it for a change. Cinderella didnt have a date to the ball and she turned out okay, right? But my dear there are dozens of young men downstairs waiting for someone as lovely as you to dance with, my grandma said. Waitthere are young boys? Karol asked. But of course. My friends have grandchildren too, who are anywhere from twelve to twenty and they were all invited. So everyone should have a partner to dance with.

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It doesnt matter anyway, Katie said making her way over to the door, Ty already has her prince charming.

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Chapter 17
As we walked down the staircase one by one, gasps were heard by the guys waiting at the bottom of the staircase for us. They looked so adorable in their tuxedos and Jesse in his suit he had brought from home. Daniels tie was red to match Nikkis dress (she must have picked it for him when they went shopping earlier), Tylers tie was black and he was in luck because that was the color of Karols dress, and Jesses tie, as strange as it may seem, did not match Katies blue dress, but my purple dress. Wow you girls look ridiculously pretty, Daniel said when we had finally made it down the stairs. Is that supposed to be some type of compliment? I asked un-amused. Yes, Daniel you should try to think of a better compliment. Try again, Nikki said not smiling. Im sorry ladies. You all look very beautiful, breathtaking even. Well thank you, Nikki said going over to grab his hand, You guys clean up nicely too, if I may say so. Yeah you ladies look amazing, Tyler said looking at each of us, dont they Jesse? I glanced in Jesses direction to see his gaze fixed in my direction, when our eyes met he looked away. Yes theyre right. You all are the prettiest ladies here by far, Jesse said offering his arm to Katie.

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As they all walked arm in arm into the ballroom entrance from the parlor, Nikki pulled me to the side. Okay, if you dont admit anything else to me about Jesse. Please admit that you saw him completely googly-eyed over your outfit. Well yeah, but its probably because hes never seen me look so fancy before. Usually when he sees me Im wearing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. Nikki looked me up and down, Well youre right about that. Hey are you guys going to stand over there gossiping or are we going to go in? Daniel called from the parlor entrance. Nikki raced to his side and I saw them enter, as I decided it was about time for me to go in too I caught a glimpse of Mr. Cross. Grandma, I asked rushing to her side, What is Mr. Cross doing here? I thought he was out of town? He was Taylor, but he got into town early, and when he heard about the ball. He was insistent that I make him my date; otherwise he would have thrown his own party, even with the late notice. So youre date to the dance is with Mr. Cross? Yes, I dont know why he was so persistent in wanting me to go with him, but I couldnt say no. I have put far too much effort into this ball to see it go to ruins. Am I right? Mr. Cross had had a crush on grandma for as long as I could remember. Thats one of the reasons that he always threw his parties the same day as her. First, it would get her mad enough to go over to his house and confront him about it, and second, it would give them something to talk about in the later years. 141

However, my grandma could care less about Mr. Cross and his feelings towards her. Her heart still belonged to grandpa and always would. You know grandma; I think this will be good for you. You can talk to one another and get to know each other better. Who knows he might end up turning out to be your prince charming? Poppy cock, Taylor do not be such a child. This is strictly business and that is it. That might be what you think, I said under my breath. Should not you be going into the ball? You did not put on that dress to stand out her conversing with your grandma. Now go. Alright, alright. Have fun grandma. After walking through the parlor door that led to the ballroom I was there. It was beautiful on the inside, even more so since it had been decorated for the ball. There were Jasmine flowers aligned on the sides of the wall and all the girls dresses shimmered in the light. It was so exciting to see everyone dancing and having so much fun. The DJ that my grandma hired was in the upper balcony working away at his music. It wasnt loud and obnoxious music of course, but soft classical music. The only kind my grandma would allow, but it was nice. I had even convinced her to have some jazz played from time to time. I eventually found Nikki and Daniel dancing away on the dance floor, and then I found Katie and Karol dancing together. Where were Jesse and Tyler? I looked around for them and eventually found them by the punch bowl chatting about something. I was about to make my way over, when someone tapped me on my shoulder.

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Excuse me, the stranger said, but would you like to dance? I looked up at the stranger, he had a dark skin complexion, about 61 or 62, he had short black hair, and an after shadow. I looked into his eyes (I always seemed to think that you could tell a guys character by three things: the way he dressed, his handshake, and the color of his eyes). His eyes however, were light brown, but he seemed to be nice. So I said yes. As we dance my arms got so tired from being around his neck. I hadnt taken into consideration how much taller he was than me. It had to be about seven inches or so, it was ridiculous. As soon as the dance finished, he bowed and left me. Unfortunately, however, another guy about an inch or two shorter than him came up to me and asked me to dance too, which of course I did. This dance happened to be a slow dance, so it took even longer, and it didnt help that his cologne smelled terrible. It smelled as though he had dumped the entire bottle over his clothes to make sure he smelled good, but sad to say it wasnt working out for him too well. I was only satisfied when the dance was over so I could finally get away from that horrid smell, but as soon as I had let go of him and said my goodbyes when someone else tapped on my shoulder. I was about to say no, when I turned to see Jesse standing in front of me. Hello, Jesse said. Oh Jesse, its you thank God. Happy to see me Im guessing. You have no idea. He laughed and cleared his throat, May I have this dance Ms.? he asked bowing. I curtsied, Of course, but what about Katie?

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He picked up my hand and held it in his, She didnt want me to leave you over here by yourself, so I offered to dance with you. Well wasnt that nice of you, I said putting my other hand on his shoulder as we started to sway to the music. So I forgot to tell you, butuh, you look very pretty in that dress. Thanks, it was my moms. Grandma forgot she even had it. Oh really, he said twirling me around, Is that why the two of you were in the attic? Yeah we were rummaging through some of her old things, because mom told me her dress would be up there. Your mom told you this? Jesse asked unconvinced. Yeah in a dream I had earlier today. Interesting. So, do you want to tell me why your tie matches my dress and not Katies? I actually happened to forget my tie at home, and your grandma found an old tie of your dads in your grandpas closet. So were wearing the outfit my mom and dad wore to their first dance here at my grandparents house? I suppose we are. Now thatis interesting, I said grinning. I looked up at him, but his eyes were focused elsewhere and I couldnt tell where. He seemed to be focusing in on the twins and their dance partners. Hes not too protective of his younger sisters, but hes protective enough if you know what I mean.

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So, tell me about yourself, Jesse said looking back at me, Ive never seen you around here before. Excuse me? I hear your friends call you Cinderella? Is that right? he said flashing his white teeth at me. Oh I see where hes going with this. Everybody wants to pretend that Im Cinderella and now Jesse is joining in on the fun. Well I guess I might as well have fun with it too, right? Actually only my close family calls me Cinderella, everyone else calls me Ty. Its ummshort for Taylor. Really? Well Tyits very nice to meet you. Im Jesse. Well Mr. Jesse, tell me about yourself, I said smiling. Theres nothing much to tell. Im a senior at Tandberg High in Indiana, I live in a house with my dad and five girls, and Im going to Texas A&M in the fall on a football scholarship. Wow, five girls huh? Is that awkward at all? No not really? Im related to four of them. The other one is my sisters best friend. Really whats her name? I asked as the song ended. Her name? Its ummwaitI know this. You dont know her name? I asked pulling away from him. He hit himself on the head a couple of times, as if he was trying really hard to remember the name, Ugh, what is her name, I think it starts with a Y maybe? You have issues. So youve said before.

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I heard the next song start up, and decided that I would find a seat against the back wall, so that I would have an excuse not to dance. Hey where are you going? Jesse asked as I started to head off the dance floor. Well I was going to go sit down, but now I think Im going to head to the little girls room. Is that okay with you sir? As you wish my lady, Jesse said bowing and grinning.

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Chapter 18
I walked back into the ballroom after I exited the ladies room and was soon greeted by Nikki. Ty? Where the heck have you been? Nikki asked as she came up from behind me. In the bathroom why? Jesse s looking for you. Hes looking for me? I told him I was going to the bathroom. Well it seemed important and I guess he assumed that you had already exited the bathroom. Do you know why hes looking for me, because if he wants to dance again I might have to pass. I dont know but for the past three minutes or so hes been searching this ballroom high and low for you. Whatever he needs to talk to you about must be pretty important. Alright, Ill see if I can find him, I said leaving Nikki to search for Jesse. As I started to walk around the ballroom looking for Jesse I heard, He who finds a wife finds what is good, gaining favor from the Lord, That was weird, I thought to myself as I stopped in my tracks in the middle of the ballroom, Why did Proverbs 18:22 just randomly pop into my head? Ty? I spun around at the sound of my name to find Jesse behind me. Hey Jesse, I heard you were looking for me. I was, but now Im not. I found you. It would seem that you had. So whats on your mind? 147

At the moment, a lot, can I speak to you in private? Sure Jesse, I said thoroughly intrigued. He looked around for a second before grabbing my hand and taking me outside to the garden along with him. After we had walked a little ways away from the ball and the music, we finally approached a bench and sat down. Is something wrong? I asked. Jesse seemed to do some heavy thinking before he responded, Ive been thinking and praying about something for a long time now, and I think its time to tell you. Tell me what, I asked curiously. Ty, he said picking up and holding both of my hands, Ive liked you for the past year, but Ive been keeping it to myself to be assured by God that you were the woman he had for me. But when we arrived in Texas and you started to spend a lot of your free time with Tyler, I dont know, I guess I started to lose hope. I started thinking that none of what I had heard was real and that I was just kidding myself. Then I realized that I had to get out the my-self state and listen to what God was telling me and not pay attention to the things I was observing. Oh. Of course, I mean I didnt come to think of you in that way overnight or anything it happened overtime. I really dont know how to explain it. Its like one second I only thought of you as my little sisters best friend, the next second you were like my sister, and then the next thing you know I had.I wasI began to grow in love with you. I helped you during your struggle with your parents death like you helped me to find the Lord. I couldnt have done that 148

without you. About a year ago, I started to pray that God would send my wife to me, and that my wife would be a helper, that she would be my best friend and partner, that she would understand me and that I would understand her. That we would grow into love with one another and have the right kind of courtship, unlike the courtship that is seen across the world these days. I prayed that God would be first in both of our lives and that we would be second in each others. Wow, I said still speechless. Yeah, and do you know when I officially knew I had begun to have feelings towards you? I shook my head. It was about ten months after your parents death. I was lying in my bed right after our daily bible study thinking about everything you had helped me to realize about being a Christian. I was reading in Song of Solomon about how he was in love with this woman. As I was reading it I prayed. I prayed that God would send me someone that I could love as much as that man loved that woman. I prayed that the woman God sent me would one day turn out to be my wife, and help me to grow stronger in the Lord as a wife should. I prayed that she would be easy to talk to and get along with, and that she would never leave my side and I would never leave hers. What did he reveal to you, I asked. He showed me you Ty. He reminded me of what a great friend youve been to Nikki over the years even though she isnt a Christian. He reminded me of how youve been patient with both Nikki and I always treating us both equally and loving us in spite of our differences. He showed me how much of a sister youve been to the twins and a daughter to my parents. He showed me how much youve grown 149

since becoming a part of our family and how much of a friend youve become to me. Ty youre my best friend in the entire world and I never want to lose you. With those words, the tears that I had been holding back since he started to talk began to fall down my face like a waterfall. I had tried not to pay attention to the words that he was saying, but everything that he said was true. I knew it was, I could see it in his eyes. I could hear it in his voice, just as I had in my parents and grandmas voice. It was all true. Ty, Jesse said pulling a handkerchief out of his pocket, Why are you crying? Because of everything you just said. You said the same thing my mom and dad said to me earlier in the dream I had. I prayed for those same things too once before. I prayed that the man that I was supposed to marry would want to court me the right way and ask for my parents permission and be given the permission by my dad. I prayed that he would love me and always love me no matter what obstacles we faced, I prayed that we would be best friends until our dying day. I prayed so many things of the same things that youve already said. So why are you crying? Because, I built up a wall to keep me from ever being hurt again, because I dont want to lose you either Jesse, but I know that if I tear down that wall and let you in you might leave too, just like my parents did. I couldnt handle that, not again. You are too important to me; I cant imagine losing you too. You wont lose me Ty, Im not going anywhere.

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Thats what my parents said too, I said as a few tears continued to fall. See? Even they know it. But how? How do they know for sure? How do you know for sure that you wont die in the next five minutes? Taylor look at me, Jesse said placing his index finger under my chin and lifting it up. God has given me a purpose on this Earth, what that purpose is fully, I dont know yet, but what I do know is that God has also provided me with a helper to help me figure out my purpose and to conquer whatever it may be. To preach the gospel throughout the world with you by my side, to speak to people who were not as fortunate as the two of us. To let others know that God sent Jesus to take away our sin, so that we may be able put on a clean robe of righteousness as he takes on our sin in replacement. And yes, it is possible for me to be like Paul and do this alone, but that is not Gods purpose for my life. His purpose was for me to have a partner, to help me to grow spiritually, mentally, and physically in him. Taylor, you are that partner. I began to laugh my tears away, Are you asking me to court you or marry you? He smiled in unison, One step at a time Ty. I began to see at that moment what being in love truly is. Not the remedial abstract things, but the concrete things that stay with a person for the rest of their life. Im not saying that I knew every part of it, because I didnt, but my eyes were definitely opened up to something I havent seen in a long time. Hope. Im not saying that you need to give me an answer right now or anything Ty, but I felt like this was the perfect time to tell you. So I

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It is the perfect time, I said as I felt myself grow in hope, even my dad said that. He even gave you permission, which means the world to me, more than you know. Im just sorry that I never realized any of this before now. Ive been so blind, because of the walls I had built up that I was afraid to let anyone in. I was afraid Id lose the ones I care the most about, but I see now that that is not the case. God is giving me a chance to add to my story in life and I can either take the chance or let it pass and regret it for the rest of my life, and Im happy to say that I believe that this decision will be one of the best decisions I will ever make. I looked up at the stars; it was so clear out tonight. It was cool, but not cool enough for a jacket. A smell of freshly cut roses brushed by my nose and it smelled lovely. It was perfect. I also got permission from your grandmother, Jesse said getting a little teary eyed himself, I was praying about the situation and everything and after I called my parents and talked to them about the situation. I felt the Lord telling me to talk to your grandmother about it too. After a long talk and a lot of ground rules, she gave me her blessing, Jesse finished. You went to my grandma about it? Well yeah, I needed approval from your guardian, and since your parents died she became your official guardian. She said that shed have to pray about it then when she had she felt that the Lord was giving her confirmation about us. She said that? She didnt say anything to me about it. She was helping me to keep it a surprise. I couldnt have been more surprised if someone had thrown me a surprise birthday party. 152

Thats good to know, he said smiling. You have no idea, I said as I began to get a lump in my throat. Well then I asked her advice on something, and she completely went for the idea. Advice, on what exactly? I asked at the same time Jesse pulled a small box out of his pants pocket. This is for you, he said handing me the small box. It was a small black box with a ribbon connecting over every corner. I pulled the ribbon off and opened the box to find a diamond necklace. Between each diamond stud was a little flower, and on the middle of one flower was the word Ty it was the prettiest thing I had ever seen or held. Wow! But Jesse I cant accept this, I said still looking at the necklace. Why not? Because it looks so expensive, and you know how I am with my jewelry. Trust me youll keep this one, and just in case I got the warranty, he said with a wink, I saw it at the store and I thought of you. I used the money that your grandma had given me the day we went shopping and some of my money Id saved from past years and bought it for you. Waitso this is what has been hiding out in your pocket? Thats it. Do you like it? I love it, I said reaching over to give him a hug, thank you so much Jesse. Here, he said taking the necklace from my hands, let me put it on for you. I turned away from him so that my back was in front of him, moved my hair aside and waited for 153

him to secure the necklace on my neck, behind my silver locket. There, he said as he pushed the clasp closed. I cant believe this, I said breathlessly as I turned back to face him. Yeah. When I agreed to come on this trip to Texas, I had no idea what events it would hold for me, I thought wed relax, ride some horses, meet new friends, and maybe shop. But this You never would have guessed any of it huh? Not in a million years. Then I guess the twins were right. I guess so; my carriage driver turned out to me my prince charming. Someone had to protect you from all those tall guys inside. Im just glad that someone was you, I said leaning in to give Jesse another hug. Thank you Jesus, I whispered silently.

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Chapter 19
So spill, Nikki was saying, What happened when you and my brother left the dance. Tell me what happened, Nikki begged, Im all ears. The dance had been over for two hours now, its was about four oclock in the morning, but none of us could sleep afterwards. What happened after the dance you may ask? Well Ill tell you. After Jesse and I made our way back inside to the ballroom, Jesse asked me to dance again, which I of course did. He actually rarely ever left my side throughout the entire night. The only time he left was to dance with Katie his date that he had come with. When Katie and Jesse were dancing at one point, Nikki came rushing over towards me. Where have you and my brother been? In the garden, I said looking over at her. Well what the heck happened out there? Youre beaming Ty. I am? Let me see, I said pointing to her purse. She looked inside of her purse and handed me her compact mirror and sure enough I was all smiles, even my face looked brighter than usual. There was definitely something different about me. So, whats going on with you? Oh my goodness, are youre in love, with my brother? Oh tell me what did he say? He said that Im his the one, I said holding up the necklace for her to see. Oh my gosh Ty!, she said at the same time that the song ended and Jesse started to make his way

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back over to us, Tell me what happened later. Got it? I nodded and smiled up at Jesse. He seemed to be as happy as I was, I felt truly happy for once. All the worrying that had brought me down earlier had disappeared and now I was truly confident in God that he would not take Jesse from me anytime soon. The DJ started to say something into his microphone, but I really wasnt listening all I heard was, This will be the last jazz song of the nightenjoy. Jesse looking down at me said, Well, I dont want to seem forward Ms., but umm.would you like to dance with me again? Again, I said smiling, Either your date dumped you, or you must really enjoy dancing with me. Definitely the second one, he said taking me up in his arms and spinning me around. I dont know what was going through my head for the next three minutes of that song, all I remember is wondering if I had ever felt this happy. I mean I know Mr. Parker says that I laugh more than I normally do when Jesse is around, and I guess he was right, Jesse made me feel so happy. God couldnt have blessed me with a greater guy and best friend. The grandfather clock in the parlor struck twelve and rung all throughout the ballroom, Excuse me Ms., Jesse said again, But dont you have a pumpkin or a carriage to catch? That all depends, if I left right now and my shoe got left behind, would you search for me? Until my dying day, Jesse said twirling me around once more. He smiled down at me as we finished dancing to the song. Eventually, after the song ended, no one 156

was really in the mood for more dancing. So, Jesse, the twins, Nikki, Daniel, Tyler, Sophia (Tylers girlfriend), and I merged eight chairs together to talk about the events of the ball and reflect back on our spring break. After we had finished our chat I continued to dance with Jesse until the clock struck 2 oclock and the ball was officially over. Jesse and Daniel walked Nikki, the twins, and I back to our rooms, so that we could get our beauty rest. However, after I had finished undressing and slipping on my Eeyore pajamas Nikki knocked on my door to have a heart to heart about my night with Jesse. This brings us to where we are now, in my bedroom, having a two person sleepover. I related the events that happened between Jesse and I to Nikki and she was more than happy for the two of us. I knew it! Didnt I tell you I knew it! Yes, I said less than amused, You did. I knew Jesse liked you. I still cant believe that after all this time you finally have a boyfriend, and its my brother. But I guess I shouldnt warn you how annoyingly weird he is. I mean after all, you do live with him. This fact hadnt occurred to me until now. What would happen now that Jesse and I were courting? Would I have to leave? And if so, to where? I dont have any other family members living in Indiana. What? Nikki said, Youre expression went from excited to thoughtful. Whats up? I was thinking. What are you parents going to say, when they hear that Jesse and I are courting now? I doubt they will continue to let us live together under the same roof. I dont know really, I mean I know that my mom has known for a while that Jesse liked you, but I 157

guess since he didnt pursue a relationship she thought that nothing should be done about it. But what can they do. Were the only family you have left in Indiana. Thats what I was thinking. Eventually, after talking with Nikki for another hour or so, we finally fell asleep. The next morning or should I say afternoon we were greeted by a knock on the door. Come on you two, its time to wake up, my grandma said opening the door and blinds. Five more minutes mom, Nikki mumbled before turning her back to the sunlight. I will not give you five more minutes. It is two oclock in the afternoon. You girls are wasting away a perfectly great day in bed. But grandma, I mumbled, I was having this dream that Jesse told me that he likes me, and that we were going to be together forever. Taylor that was not a dream, you know perfectly well that Jesse told you of his feelings towards you last night. Wait, I said rising up in my bed, It wasnt a dream? It most certainly was not. I looked towards my dresser, and sure enough the necklace that Jesse had given to me the night before was lying in my jewelry box. So if it wasnt a dream then that means that my mom was right, as usual, and that Jesse really did care for me in that special way. But there was still the matter of what would happen to me when we got back to Indiana. Upon thinking about this I laid my head back down on my pillow, and pulled the covers over my head and Nikkis.

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Hey! Nikki yelled when I did this, Okayokay, Ill get up. You dont have to suffocate me. I felt Nikki get out of the bed and heard her head over to the bathroom. Taylor, I need to talk to you about something before your friend gets back, grandma said walking towards the bed. Sure grandma, I said uncovering my head, What is it? She seemed to be thinking about how to correctly word what she was about to say. Taylor I am sure that you know that your young man asked for my permission to court you. Yes maam, he told me that last night. Courting its actually really different from dating. When you are in the midst of courting someone else you are telling the other person that you one day want to get married to them. So, in my family (its different in every situation) you are required to have a chaperone around watching what youre doing and making sure that neither one of you is acting sinful. There is no kissing allowed; you can hold hands and hug, but nothing else that would cause the two to act lustfully. Well there were terms and guidelines to my approval. Did he tell you what they were? No, I said thinking back to last night, I dont think he did. Good, because I wanted to tell you myself, Taylor as you know I do not mind you courting with this young man, but as you may also know there have to be some strict ground rules applied. Understood? I nodded my head and she continued, So my guidelines are that I absolutely forbid, kissing of any sort, you may hold hands but nothing else, you will 159

not go out on a date aloneyou will either have to have an adult chaperone or be with a group of friends, and the rest you should have heard from your parents. Is that right? I nodded again, Furthermore, she continued, I absolutely forbid for you to continue living in the Parker residence. I admit that I let you stay there against my better judgment after your parents left, because you loved your friends and were already attending a high school in Indiana. But now that you and Jesse are together I will no longer allow it. I sighed. So where will I live? Ive decided that I am moving to Indiana to live with you. Waitwhat? I asked making sure I heard her right, Youre going to move to Indiana, to live with me? Yes, that way you can still attend school and be near your friends and Jesse. Oh grandma, I said reaching over to give her a big hug, Thank you, I was worried for a second thatwell it doesnt matter anymore what I was worried about. Thank you! It is nothing dear. So what are you going to do about your house here in Texas and the horses, the servants, and what about Lady? The servants will continue to stay here and keep an eye on the house and the horses. As far as Lady goes, she will be coming with us. I reached over to give her another big hug. You had to admit, I had the best grandmother in the world. Grandma I cant believe youre doing this for me and Jesse, thank you!

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Yes, well it is the least I can do. I am your grandmother am I not? And its about time that I start acting like it, and not visiting you only for two months out of a year. It should never have ended up that way in the first place, she said getting up to leave. Hey grandma? I asked curiously, Whatever happened between you and Mr. Cross last night? That dreadful man, he is the one that helped me make my decision to leave for Indiana. Can you believe that he tried to kiss me? The nerve of some people, she said leaving my room. I lay back on my bed and laughed. Grandma couldnt see it when I tried to tell her about Mr. Cross crush on her, but she finally saw it with her own eyes. Apparently she was quite disgusted with him. During the next few hours, everyone was hurrying to try to get packed for our flight back to Indiana the next day. After I had finished packing I went down to the parlor to talk with Jesse. Did you know? I asked him when he entered the parlor. Know what? he said joining me on the couch. Know that my grandma was moving out to Indiana so that I could continue my schooling, and see my friends and you? Yes. She told me about it when I was asking for her permission to court you, but, he said holding up his hands in surrender, She told me that she wanted to tell you herself. So dont get mad at me. Im not mad, I said smiling at him, Im glad. Im happy that we are both mature enough to make this sacrifice, even though we both enjoy each others company in your house, I think this will work 161

out for the both of us in the end. Its not courting if were living together, right? Right, plus I thought that this was more important. I mean your grandma said that since shes moving up to Indiana, Ill still continue to see you. Plus, this is the best way for both of us; it will benefit us from having any lusting or sinful nature. So I have a question for you? I asked fluffing up the pillow beside me. Whats that? Was it hard for you to deal with patience during this last year, when God gave you a confirmation? There were plenty of times when I had to catch myself from acting the way I shouldnt be acting, and then I had to act like there was nothing to hide from you. So the answer is yes, daily. Oh. I handled my trial of patience by praying, enjoying our bible study time together, and studying my bible. Well I had to deal with patience too, but not in the area of courting. But in the area of faith? Yes. I guess I never really got over the fact that my parents death happened so suddenly. One second they were right beside me, and the next they were gone, forever. Just trying to get past that, and still have faith in God every day of my life was a struggle. But writing in my journal helped so did our bible study time together. You helped me to stay accountable to God through all of my trials even when I wanted to give up on him and myself. I know how hard it was for you when your parents died Ty, Im just blessed that I was able to be there with you in your time of need, when your 162

grandmother couldnt because she was here taking care of her amazing castle. I smiled, It is pretty amazing isnt it? Jesse, I am so thankful for you. Even if you wouldnt have asked to court me yesterday, the fact that you are my friend and that you help me through trials I could never face alone would have been enough for me. The same goes for me, but I am even more excited to spend the rest of my life with you, and not have to let you face your trials alone. We can face them together, whatever the devil or the world throws at us, itll be God, me, and you, until our dying day. Just like my parents? I asked. Even better, well be just like us. We will have our own testimony to tell, our own future together, our own story to look back out when we reach our dying age. All this dying talk is depressing, I said looking off. Im sorry, one day at a time? Deal, I said reaching for his right hand. Awe, you guys are so cute together, Nikki said entering the parlor. Hey Nikki, I said still holding onto Jesses hand, Whats going on? I was coming to tell you that dinner was ready, but then I saw how cute you guys look together so I had to come watch. Continue your conversationplease. Dont stop on account of me, she said sitting down on the coffee table in front of us. I looked over at Jesse, Is there something wrong with your sister? Shes just excited to see you so happy, he said squeezing my hand.

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Im excited to see the both of you happy, Nikki said speaking up. I am happy, I said smiling, and for once not worried about the future or losing my friends. Glad I could help with that, Jessie said. Well you dont deserve all the credit. Most of it goes to my mom and dad; if I wouldve never talked to them yesterday evening I cant say if this would have happened. Well then, Im going to have to personally thank them myself when I arrive in Heaven, and then give God the biggest hug Ive ever given to anyone. I cant handle the cuteness, Nikki said laughing, I want to take a picture, Ill be right back dont leave. Jesse and I continued to sit and talk for a few more minutes while we waited for Nikki to come back down stairs with her camera. Okay Im back are you ready? We need to document this moment so everyone say cheese! Ive never seen that camera before, I said to Nikki as I eyed the camera from a distance, when did you get that? Ummits not mine, Nikki said uneasily. Then whos is it? I asked with a grin. Its yours Thats the camera my parents bought me? I said as my smile began to disappear from my face, WHY ARE YOU USING THE CAMERA THAT MY PARENTS BOUGHT ME! Im sorry, Nikki said taken aback, I thought you wouldnt mind. Nikki you had no right to go into my room and open the box to my camera! I said as I began to get angry. Im sorry, I just thought 164

Thats just it you didnt think! How could you! I asked yelling as I took the camera from her. Ty you need to calm down, Jesse said in a smooth calming voice. NIKKI DONT YOU EVER GO INTO MY ROOM AND TOUCH MY STUFF AGAIN do you understand, I said ignoring Jesse. My parents gave me this so you have no right to it. I cant believe you had the nerve to go into my room, into my closet, and justtake itwithoutasking! I said as tears poured down my face. Ty please, I heard Jesse say beside me. Nikki stood with a look of disbelief on her face as tears began to well up in her eyes. Im sorry Ty. Im sorry, she said repeating herself over and over again. I stormed up to my room with my camera in hand opened the door to my room and slammed the door behind me. When I had the picture that I loved so much of my parents that was sitting on my dresser fell to the ground and shattered the glass that covered the picture. I turned around and looked at the frame and picture that fell to the ground. I grabbed the picture from underneath the glass and held it in my left hand with the camera in the other and broke down into tears. Go away! I said after I heard a knock at my door. Ty, its me, I heard Jesse say from behind the door, Can I come in? I said nothing but placed the camera and the picture beside me on the floor, brought my knees in close to hold them and continued to cry. My door opened and Jesse entered. Ty? Are you okay? 165

I buried my head in my knees thinking that he would leave if I just ignored him. Can we talk? Jesse asked as I felt him sit down on the floor beside me. I dont care what youre going to say Jesse. She had no right to open it, I said still not moving my head from my knees. I know, Jesse said coming over to sit beside me, She shouldnt have done what she did. But is yelling really going to help the situation? I remained silent, but brought my head up to look at him. Maybe she was trying to help you? How? How could she have been trying to help me? Well it took a little push for you to give us a chance and to let go of what could or could not happen in the future. Maybe Nikki was trying to help you to get rid of another skeleton in your closet? I looked at him now confused. What? You wear that locket that holds a picture of your parents around your neck every day, Jesse said as he reached for my locket and lifted it up, but do you ever open it? Of course I open it Jesse. What kind of a question is that? Have you actually ever looked at the pictures inside? I just said yes. Would you get to the point? Jesse held the locket in his hand for a moment longer before opening it and looking at the pictures inside. On the left side was my dad with a chef hat on holding up a spatula. It was opening day at their restaurant Tick Tock and my dad couldnt have been more proud of their accomplishment. On the right was my mom taking a second to smile for a picture as 166

she took the orders of their first customers. She was just as proud as my dad. Look at these two loving, caring, happy parents. Do you think that they would have wanted you to keep their present locked up in a box for all these years? Do you think that they would have wanted you to never pursue your passion of wanting to become a photographer? To yell at a friend when all she was trying to do was help? I took the locket out of his hand and looked at the pictures myself. He was right; my parents wouldnt have wanted me to give up on my dream of becoming a photographer or anything else that I wanted to become. How do you know she was trying to help? Theres only one way to find out, Jesse said glancing towards my door. I sighed as I got up with my camera and headed back downstairs. Nikki was sitting on the window settee staring at the view outside. Pretty isnt it? I asked implying the view. Yeah lots of flowers, Nikki said not looking at me. I sat down next to her and placed the camera between us. Im sorry Nik. I over reacted. I shouldnt have snapped at you the way I did. Im sorry too, Nikki said turning her gaze away from the window, I had no right to get your camera without your permission first, I just thought that capturing you and Jesse on your camera might be something special youd want to remember. I thank you for that Nikki. But I need to explain to you why I got mad the way I did. The camera was the last thing that my parents gave me that I held close to my heart. I hid it for all these 167

years because I knew that if I opened it I would be acknowledging the fact that my parents were really gone. I knew that if I used my camera I would have to continue my dream of becoming a photographer without my parents there for moral support. But were your family now Ty, we will be here for your moral support. Thank you Nikki, I said as Jesse walked into the parlor, and thank you too Jesse for allowing me to see the error of my ways and allowing to look at myself the way that my parents saw me. Youre welcome Ty, Jesse said coming over to grab my hand. This is the picture that I want to have taken, three friends that stick together through everything, so I can remember this moment for the rest of my life. Are you sure? Nikki asked. Im positive. I wouldnt be at the place I am without you and Jesse, and I want this to be the first picture taken on the camera. Thanks Ty, she said pulling me and Jesse in for a hug. Did I miss something? Grandma asked as she walked into the parlor. Just three friends solving each others problems, I said picking up my camera and giving it to grandma. Grandma will you take a picture of us. Sure thing honey, I would be honored to. Im proud of you, you know, Jesse said standing beside me. I smiled up at him and kissed him lightly on the cheek, How did I get to be so lucky to be blessed with a guy as amazing as you? Say cheese, Grandma said as Nikki found a place on the other side of me.

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Cheese, I said as Jesse leaned down and kissed me on the top of my head as Nikki squeezed my hand.

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Thursday: March 11 Dear Diary, I want to talk about the person that helped me to decide to become a photographer, my grandpa. It was during a summer vacation that I shared with my parents in Texas. I was about six years old and my grandpa told me that he had a special camera for me. Theres my Taylor, my grandpa said as he welcomed me in for a big hug. Dont worry dad, we can take the luggage upstairs by ourselves, my dad said jokingly. I know you can son, my grandpa said as he took a package from behind his back and smiled at me, I have a present for you ladybug. For me! I asked excitedly. Yes maam, here, my grandpa said handing me a small package, open it. I took the package from my grandpa and opened it to find a small camera inside. A camera? Yes, but this isnt an ordinary camera, this one takes a picture and captures everything that youd miss with that ladybug eye of yours. What do you mean? Well lets say for instance that you take a picture of me smiling, but you might miss that behind me a butterfly is landing on a sunflower. This camera will capture all of that. It will? I asked truly interested. Yes, here let me show you. What would you like to take a picture of? Umm, I said tapping my chin, What about grandma watering her flowers? Okay, my grandpa said walking into the parlor to where my grandma was watering her 170

flowers. Dont look up sweetie Im showing Taylor how to properly capture a picture. She laughed, Okay honey. Grandpa aimed and clicked the button on the camera. Did you get it? I asked. See for yourself, my grandpa said handing me the camera. I looked at the picture grandpa had taken with the camera and sure enough it had grandma watering the plants, but it also showed water droplets flowing from one leaf to the other. Awesome, I said. Awesome, indeed. Can I take a picture of you grandpa? Snap away, grandpa said. I took a picture of him and then as soon as I was satisfied with that picture I took a picture of everything else I could find. The floor, my parents unpacking, my clothes, my bedroom, the kitchen, the parlor, the stables, and anything else that was worth capturing. When it was time for dinner I waited until after my mom had said grace and then I began to take pictures of my food and everyone sitting around the table. Okay Taylor its time to put down the camera, my mom said. Yes maam. You can play with your camera more when you have finished eating your supper. I nodded and began to eat my food, while still eyeing my camera that lay to my right. Nice idea dad, giving her a camera, my dad said to my grandpa. What do you mean son? Shes going to be a natural photographer that one. 171

Whats a photographer? I asked looking up from my food. Someone who takes pictures as a profession or job, theyre paid to take pictures, my dad responded. Oh well I dont want to get paid, I just like to take pictures. The words spoken of someone of true innocence, my grandma said smiling. Is there a job where I can take pictures for fun daddy? I asked. If there is Im sure youll find it, my dad said as he took a bite of his chicken. As I reached to look at my camera my mom said, What did I say Taylor? Not until after supper. I dont want to be forced to take it away from you. Yes maam, I said solemnly. Dont worry ladybug, tomorrow youll have the entire day to take pictures, my grandpa whispered over to me. I gleamed at these words as I began to eat the rest of my supper. Thank you grandpa, I whispered back after I had finished my supper. Anytime ladybug. I spent the rest of my summer taking picture after picture after picture. All the pictures that I took from this summer were the first ones to fill up the photo album that Jesse gave me. Now that Im slowly getting back into taking pictures again, I can finally fill up the rest of my album. Taylor!

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Chapter 20 20
Dinner came and went, after dinner we had about an hour before lights out to do whatever we wished. Katie and Karol wanted to go see the horses before we left for the week, so Jesse and I accompanied them out to the stables. Which one is yours? Katie asked me. This one, I said petting Jasmine, This is my Jasmine. Shes so cute. And tall, Karol commented. Sixteen hands and extremely fast, I said brushing her with my hand. Shes not that fast, a voice said jokingly in the distance. Tyler, what are you doing out here? I saw the stable light come on, so I thought Id check to see who was visiting. Thanks for being so watchful, I said. Anytime, hey Jesse, Karol, Katie. Whats new? Nothings new, Karol said, Were just visiting Tys horses before we leave tomorrow. Oh yeah, tomorrow is the big day, isnt it? Ready to head back home? Yeah I miss dad. I miss mom, Katie said. Hey Ty, can we go look at the horses in the other stable? Karol asked. Umm, sure but youll need someone to go with you. Can you come with us, please Jesse, Karol pleaded. 173

Jesse looked over at me for approval before agreeing and walking off with the twins. Just be careful, some of the horses get antsy this late at night. Thanks for the heads up, Jesse called back. So you and Jesse huh? Tyler asked after they were out of ear shot. What about it? I asked. I was right wasnt I? Yes, you along with everyone else, I said smiling. Did you ever find out what was holding you back from him? Yeah, I did. My mom helped me to figure it out in a dream. I was afraid to let him in because I was afraid Id lose him. And now? I have faith that Jesse wont leave me, at least not anytime soon. So no more doubt, no more worrying? Not today Tyler, Im not going to let anyone get in the way of what Gods plan holds for me. Im letting God lead the way and Im following close behind him. Sounds like a plan to me. Yes it does, I said as I saw Jesse and the twins start to head back our way. Bored already? I asked. The twins got scared; I think we might have awoken a few of the horses, Jesse said. I told you they get antsy, I said smiling. Well Im going to go ahead and head back. It was nice seeing you again Ty, have a safe trip back, Tyler said coming over to give me a hug, You guys stay safe too and dont forget to come back and visit.

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We watched as Tyler turned to head back to his house before Jesse decided it was time to head back as well. So what did the two of you talk about? Jesse asked as we followed behind the twins. Gods plan for my life, I said thinking back. Does it include me? Jesse asked with a grin. I sure do hope so. We got back to the house a little before 8:40, but as soon as it hit nine oclock Grandma came around to everyones room to say that it was time for bed. We had a big day ahead of us tomorrow (Saturday). Grandma and I had to find a house to stay in for the next year or so, I had to transfer all of my clothes from the Parker residence to my new house, and then I had to prepare Lady for the flightwhich is hard to do because she hates planes. I was thinking about all the things that needed to be done for tomorrow, when I heard a knock on my door. Come in, I yelled. I was soon greeted by Katie and Karol wearing their nightgown clothes and each holding a teddy bear. Ty? Katie said coming over to sit on my bed, We cant sleep. Is that so? Yes, Karol said, Can we sleep in here with you? Wouldnt you rather sleep with Nikki? She locked her door, and didnt hear us knocking, Karol said sadly. Well then, I said pulling back my covers, Of course you can sleep with me. Yay, they said both getting into my bed.

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So Ty? Is it true that you and Jesse are going to get married and live happily ever after? Katie asked after a few minutes had passed. Well I would like to say so, but well have to wait and see. Wont we? I hope that you do. I want you to me my sister for forever, Karol said speaking up. Ill always be your sister, no matter what. Promise? Karol asked. I promise. There was silence for a while and I decided to lay my head back on my pillow and try to get some sleep. When I heard Katie say my name. Ty? Yeah? Could you tell us a bedtime story? Katie asked. A bedtime story huh? I said leaning up on one arm, Let me think. What kind of story would you girls like to hear? Definitely one thats fairytale related, Katie said. And there should be a huge castle, Karol added. Okay, but Ill have to make it up as I go along. Do you still want to hear it? They nodded their heads in agreement. Okay. Once upon a time

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Friday: March 12 Dear Diary, Im in the bathroom right now. The twins finally went to sleep after I told them a bedtime story. I couldnt think of one right off so I started to combine the story of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Snow White. Sounds bad right? Let me set the record straight that I should have won an award for that story. I definitely did not see that one coming. Anyway so I was trying to fall asleep when I remembered a bedtime story told to me one night by my grandfather, I wish I wouldve remembered this earlier the twins would probably have loved to hear this story over my horrible made up one. But since I cant tell them now, Ill just write it down instead. It began with me racing into my bedroom. I raced into my bedroom, grabbing my favorite stuffed bunny rabbit off my bedside table, jumped into the bed and snuggled underneath my bed covers. This was my customary night time ritual every night I stayed with my grandparents, I would get settled in my bed and wait patiently for my grandpa to come tell me a bedtime story. So what would you like to hear tonight my little ladybug? my grandpa had asked as he came into the room. Would you like to hear about a lovely princess or how about a prince that fights a dragon to win the heart of the girl he loves, he said with a wink. Umm., I said thoughtfully.

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Leo, have your started your story yet? My grandma had asked as she entered my room. Not yet, why? my grandpa asked. The kitchen sink is leaking; do you think you would be able to fix it when you are finished in here? Sure thing sweet pea, as soon as Im finished telling my little ladybug her story for the night. As I watched my grandma form a smile on her face, before leaving my room quietly closing the door behind her, I was hit with an idea for my bedtime story. Grandpa, I said, I know what story I want to hear. Do you now! Well tell me before you forget, he said laughing. I want to hear the story of how you and grandma fell in love. Thats better than a princess in a castle any day. He looked at me uneasy for a second or two, tucked the covers around me then glanced around the room. I thought it would be a long time before you asked about our story, but since you do get to pick the bedtime stories, here it is. He got a little twinkle in his eye and then said. Once upon a time there was a beautiful young lady. She had smooth mocha colored skin, beautiful black hair, and the prettiest 178

brown eyes I had ever seen. We met one morning at her church that I went to visit with a friend. She was eighteen and had been attending this since she was the age of eight; a little older than you, but this was my first visit. The second I saw her across the room I could feel that there was something different about her. What was it? I asked excitedly. Well you see I wasnt the only guy whod noticed her. There were at least five other guys vying for her attention, but she paid them no attention because her heart was set on another. It was about a month later when I found out that she had never ever dated anyone. Not once had she been on a date with any other guy, because she wanted to keep herself pure. I thought to myself, How can I compete with that, because you see I had dated my share of women in high school and I did not feel worthy of her. At this time I was in college and had become a believer of Christ three years earlier, and with that I also made the decision to change my lifestyle. What happened? Did you have to go to battle with the other man? I asked intrigued by the story. No nothing quite that dramatic, but if I hadnt listened to the Holy Spirit as he constantly tugged at my heart, I probably would have lost out on one of the best fairytales in the world. So I listened to the Holy Spirit as he told me not to give up and have patience. I waited

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during a long period of time, but as I waited she grew closer to her supposed prince charming that she liked and I began to lose faith. But thats not a happy ending grandpa. Its not and thank God that he didnt end it that way. But about three months later the guy that she had set her heart on started to date someone else. YES! I said, I mean aww. Grandpa laughed, Well, soon after that we became really good friends and that friendship grew into a great love. I was just so excited that I had become friends with this amazing woman who had such a love for God. We eventually began to court, meaning that we couldnt be alone together and we always had someone chaperoning us. Our parents said that it was for our safety, and we didnt complain, we were just happy to be together. Our parents loved that we were together and were joyful that one day we would get married and spend the rest of our lives together, but since we were not at that stage yet; they chaperoned to protect us, as your parents will do with you one day. Your grandmother taught me how to cook crme brulee and how to be patient in everything I did in life on a daily basis, I taught her how to fly fish and to always put God first in her life, and as we still do, we enjoyed to talk and share about our opinions on Gods word. What did great Grandpa Frank say, when he found out you liked grandma? 180

Well he wasnt too happy about it at first. He thought she was too young and I was too immature, but he soon found out that she was my better half and although she was young, she had wisdom beyond her years. Well how did grandmas parents react? Oh them, my grandpa said smiling, they loved me instantly. Grandpa! Its true, they were happy that the time had come for their daughter to meet the man she would spend the rest of her life with. Really? I asked. True story. So then you and grandma got married and spent the rest of your lives together like Cinderella and her Prince Charming? Not quite. We did things the right way, ladybug. There were no fairy god-mothers, no magical pumpkins, or mice being turned into horses, and no lost glass slippers. There was just courting, waiting, and patiently waiting on Gods perfect timing. But you did get to live in a castle? This old thing, my grandpa said looking around and smiling, your grandmother didnt deserve anything less. Is that why you put so many rooms in here? 181

Yes, I believed that your grandmother was worth all of this and then some. But you gave me my own room grandpa. Thats because you my dear are my little princess, and all queens and princesses deserve to be treated like royalty. Oh, so grandma is your queen? Indeed she is, the best queen that has ever lived. Oh. I was right, that is a better bedtime story than a madeup fairytale, I said yawning. Im glad that you think so my dear, my grandpa said leaning over to give me a kiss on my forehead. Good night lady bug, he said as he got up and headed towards my door. Are you and grandma going to live happily ever after grandpa? That my dear is not something that I can tell you, but I can tell you that so far we are living each day to the fullest and being very grateful and blessed for each day that God blesses us with. So it is like a fairytale! He smiled and turned out the light, Goodnight my little ladybug. I had forgotten all about that story until tonight. Remembering back to it makes me wish for 182

a fairytale romance like theirs. I am thankful that I was patient and waited for my fairytale romance to begin, plus just remembering my grandpas bedtime story continues to give me hope that one day I will be able to live my own fairytale story given to me by God! Goodnight.

Taylor!

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Chapter 21
The next morning we all got up early to head back to Indiana. We had more luggage than before with us in the limo, so grandma decided that we take two limos. One limo was for the luggage and Lady, and the other limo was for us. Grandma, I said looking at Ladys sad puppy dog eyes from the limo she was in, You know that I cant let her stay in there by herself. Shell get lonely. Taylor she will be perfectly fine in the limo, she has ridden alone in the back before. Yes, but I wasnt here the last time she rode in a limo, and Im here now, so can I please ride with her? Wellwho will keep you company? You cannot carry on a thirty minute conversation with a dog. Actually grandma would be quite surprised, when my dad had bought Starburst, my bird, for me back when I was younger. I use to carry on minute long conversations with her when I was bored. My dad became convinced that I was turning into a bird myself or was at least becoming a bird whisperer and decided to nickname me Tweety. Grandma Ill be fine. Ill ride with her, Jesse said coming out of the other limo. Now I will not have you to riding together without a chaperone, grandma said shaking her head. Well, I said looking at the limo, Lady can always chaperone, I mean she will be with us.

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Taylor. I am serious. But if you both insist on riding in the limo with Lady, then I guess I will ride with you, but in the front with Mr. Johnson of course. I cannot have that dog getting dog hair all over my traveling attire. Thank you grandma, you are without a doubt the best grandmother ever, I said. Make sure you remember that fact in the future Taylor, grandma said entering the limo. The limo ride was quite short, but Jesse and I didnt get to do much talking do to the fact that Lady hates being in one spot for too long. So we had to keep her calm and still, which wasnt an easy task. When we finally reached grandmas plane and had loaded the luggage. I took a seat next to the window and surprisingly fell straight asleep. I left the twins in charge of watching Lady this time. I slept the entire trip back to Indiana, and by the time I had awoken we were there. Mr. & Mrs. Parker both arrived to pick us up; due to the mass amount of luggage we were now carrying. I think grandma brought fifteen suitcases with her. Eventually we made it back to the Parker house; they had cleared out the guest bedroom for grandma to place her bags and get settled into until we found a place of our own. After grandma had all of her luggage brought into her room, Mrs. Parker and her set out to find a nice hotel for us, and a car to buy. Grandma said that first thing Monday morning she was going to start looking for a house for the two of us to live in. So, grandma spent the rest of the afternoon with Mrs. Parker hunting down a car to drive and a hotel to stay in. Soare you excited about the car? Nikki asked me as I packed up the remainder of my clothes in our closet and drawers. 185

Why would I be excited? I wont be able to drive it, I said shooing Lady away from my suitcase. The Parkers had allowed Lady to reside in our room under one condition. We would have to keep our door closed at all times and we would be responsible for cleaning up after her. But these rules were quite easy to attend to, since Lady was very well behaved and she was trained to use a litter box. Yeah I know, but remember your grandma said that at the beginning of senior year you get to have it, and shes going to buy herself another one, remember? I remember Nik, but thats not for months. Yeah I guess youre right, and you still have my brother to drive you around whenever you want. Jesse had agreed that since I wouldnt have my own car until the beginning of my senior year that he would gladly pick me up from the house grandma and I would eventually get and take me anywhere I needed to go. As long as we had a set of eyes and ears in the back seat to keep an eye on us, and I had already knighted Katie for that job. Yeah that was nice of him, I said folding up a shirt. Well he couldnt have very well said no, to his new girlfriend. How awkward would that be? Youd be all like Hey Jesse could you take me to the store? and hed be all like, What? You think that because Im your boyfriend now that Im obligated to take you places? I dont think so Ty. Wow, over exaggerating much? Maybe a little, but I got your voice down pretty good right? she asked. It was okay. I mean I do live with youit shouldve been perfect, I joked.

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Let me try again, Jesse can you please take me to the store? Nikki said changing her voice. Not even close. I think it was worse that time. Really you think? Definitely. So I have a question, Nikki said sitting on my bed, How upset do you think Jessica will be on Monday when she hears that you and Jesse are courting? Huh? I dont know, not too bad I hope. I wouldnt want her to take her jealousy or anger out on me and Jesse. Well, Nikki said getting off my bed and heading to the bathroom, Theres only one way to find out. We did find out her reaction eventually, but not before Monday morning. So what time are your grandma and my mom supposed to be coming back? I dont know. But while Im waiting on them, Im going to help myself to a bowl of ice cream and the television set. Want to join me? I would, but I have to finish unpacking before tonight, Nikki said sighing, Sorry. Its okay. If you need any help let me know. I was treating myself to some strawberry ice cream and the television set when I heard someone come out of the kitchen, into the living room, and joining me on the couch. What are you watching? Jesse asked sitting down on the couch next to me. Its an old re-run of Gilligans Island, shhh. Gilligans Island really? I didnt even know that show came on TV anymore.

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They started showing it again over Spring Break, now hush. Thats cool, mind if I watch with you? I dont care Jesse, I said, but Im trying to hear whats going on. Okay, Ill be quiet, he said digging into my bowl of ice cream with a spoon he had taken from the kitchen, So whats going on? Well Gilligan just emptied the last few cans of corn beef for this lion they found on the island, I said watching as the credits across the screen, Well I guess it doesnt matter anymore. Its off now. The end of the Gilligans Island theme song ended and the Andy Griffith show came on next. I reached for the remote control and flipped the channel trying to find something worth watching. Im sorry Ty. I didnt mean to make you miss the ending, he said sounding sincerely sorry. Its fine, there will be another episode on tomorrow at the same time, so no worries, I said looking at his sullen facial expression, You okay? Yeah, Im fine, he said reaching for another scoop of ice cream. I moved my ice cream bowl out of his reach, Whats wrong? Its only that. Im going to miss the times that we had hanging out here in the living room. You know? Yeah, I said thinking back to all the good times we had, But itll be ok. The memories will still be here, plus its not like Im leaving the country or anything. Hopefully, Ill only be a couple of minutes away. Yeah, but it wont be the same. You can say that again, Nikki said coming into the living room and making room for herself 188

between me and Jesse on the couch. I overheard what you guys were talking about and I couldnt agree with Jesse more. Really? Yeah Ty, youre part of this family now. Like another sister and its weird to see you go, especially since youre not even leaving for college yet. I couldnt agree more. The Parkers had become my new family since my parents death. It was extremely hard to think about me leaving them to move in with my grandma. But, it was, however, the most responsible and adult thing to do. So I couldnt really complain. I mean it couldve turned out a lot worse; grandma couldve made me stay in Texas, until the day I graduated. Itll be fine you guys. Youll see. Ill still come to visit all the time, and you are always welcome at our house. Nikki Ill even make sure that grandma puts in an extra bed for when you sleepover, and Ill make sure the cabinets are loaded with chips and junk food for you Jesse, I said smiling at them. Thats sweet Ty, and I dont know maybe shes right Jesse. Maybe things will be the close to the same after she leaves, Nikki said. One can only hope, Jesse said frowning. And pray, I said finishing his sentence. Grandma and Mrs. Parker returned home soon after our conversation ended. Grandma had found a nice five-star hotel for us to stay at until she had found us a permanent home. She had also found a small dark blue mustang convertible to drive around town in. Taylor, grandma said when she entered the living room, go upstairs and get your luggage so that we can check into the hotel. 189

Nikki and I dragged our feet upstairs to get my luggage and Lady. After we had brought my luggage downstairs and put it into the car I said goodbye to my family of two years. I hugged Mr. and Mrs. Parker goodbye, followed by the twins, and Nikki who cried and refused to let me go. Nikki, you have to let me go. Youll see me Monday. You will also see her tomorrow, grandma said. What? Nikki asked letting go of me. I have asked your parents to join Taylor and I for church tomorrow morning, and they are more than pleased to come. I hope I will also see each of you there as well, grandma said implying Jesse, Nikki, and the twins. Oh, well then what am I hugging you for Ty, Ill see you tomorrow, Nikki said brushing away her tears. Ill miss you too Nik, I said giving her one last hug before heading over to Jesse. Ill see you tomorrow too, right? I asked Jesse. I wouldnt miss it for the world, he said leaning down to give me a hug. After we had all finished our goodbyes, grandma and I drove off towards our hotel. It was a very expensive hotel. There was an indoor and an outdoor pool, a sauna, butlers and valets, bellhops, and very nicely mannered maids. Our rooms were separate but joined by a bathroom. They were very fancy and elegant rooms, but I was too tired to soak it all in. Plus I missed my roommate; it was as I was thinking this that my cell phone started to ring. Me: Hello?

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Nikki: Oh hey Ty! Did you make it to your hotel yet? Me: Yeah, we made it in a little while ago. Why whats up? Nikki: Nothing, Im bored and lonely here. So I decided to give you a call. Me: Okay Nikki: Hi Ty (Katie and Karol were saying in the background). What? Tys on the phone (I heard Jesse say) Jesse: Hey Ty, so hows life in paradise? Me: Ill let you know tomorrow, Im too tired to explore paradise right now. Jesse: Alright, well get some sleep; Ill see you in the morning. Me: Okay bye. Can I have the phone back now, Nikki was saying. Sure thing, here you go, but dont talk for too long okay, she needs to get some rest, Jesse said. Nikki: Awe he cares about you and your beauty rest. Me: It would seem so. Nikki: Ty did you just yawn? Me: Maybe? Nikki: Okay Jesse was right you need to get some rest. Ill talk to you tomorrow alright, or if you wake up later tonight feel free to call me. Me: Will do Nik, thanks. I hung up the phone, laid down on my bed and began to dream.

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Chapter 22
Sunday morning church service at the church I attended, Jesus Lives started at 9 am. Mr. and Mrs. Parker and their children were more than happy to be invited back again. All except for Nikki who refused to enjoy herself and sulked the entire time. After church ended grandma took us all to Jakes Italian diner for lunch, and to thank the Parkers for allowing us to stay in their hospitality yesterday and for helping her to find a hotel and vehicle. They were more than grateful, but it was so weird how they acted around my grandma. It was different then the way they treated most people. Why are you parents acting so weird? I whispered to Jesse who was sitting in the seat to my right. You mean weird as in; its weird that theyre not acting like themselves around your grandmother? How should I know? What are you two whispering about? Nikki whispered to me at my left. After asking her the same question I realized that no one knew why the Parkers were acting so weird. Maybe it was because they never knew that she was a multi-millionaire before. I mean when I was younger and my parents told me I pretty much freaked too. The first thing I asked my grandma for was a horse, which I got eventually, but not immediately, due to the fact that I was only like three at the time. We went back to the Parkers house after grandma decided that we should have a family bible study, since she heard that the Parkers did not attend 192

church on a regular basis. She set out to change that. I wasnt sure how that was going to work out for her, but I didnt dare try to stop her. After listening and sitting through a hour and a half long bible study, grandma finally turned her focus to thanking the Parkers for allowing me to stay with them for the past two years and Nikki shared with Jesse and I her feelings on the bible study. Sothat little bible study your grandma gave earlier, Nikki commented. What about it? I enjoyed it, I learned a lot from the things she was talking about. It actually all kind of makes sense now. Really? I asked surprised. Yeah, and your grandma said that shes going to hold a bible study every Sunday after church at her house, and Im thinking about going. Seriously? Thats awesome Nikki, if you thought you learned a lot today, be prepared to have your mind blown. Yeah Im interested in what else she and the Lord have to say to me. I couldnt be happier for her; I had prayed several times that I would be around to see Nikki give her life to Christ. Not that she has or anything yetbut well see where this takes us. Speaking of bible studies, Jesse interrupted, Whats going to happen to our one on one bible study time Ty? I dont know, that hadnt even crossed my mind, but Im sure that grandma wouldnt mind you coming over to study the bible with me. I mean she could even join in if she likes. You dont think so?

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I dont know, but I can ask her in the morning. I did ask her the next morning as I was getting ready for school, and she had absolutely no problem with Jesse coming over for a personal bible study. Nor did she mind the fact of Nikki coming over to spend the night from time to time. When I told Jesse and Nikki about the news they were pretty much thrilled themselves. We actually ended up leaving for school about thirty minutes early due to the fact that grandma came into my bedroom and woke me up. Then she called the Parker house and woke everyone up at six oclock, thinking that we had to be at school at seven, and she wanted to make sure that Jesse had enough time to come to the hotel to pick me up for school. Who goes to school at seven in the morning? Im so tired, Nikki said in the Jeep on the way to school, why did your grandma have to wake us up so early? I dont know, I said yawning, something about she heard me and you talking about school today and thought we said that schools starts at seven. Why would a school start at seven in the morning? Well, at least we didnt have to worry about Ty running late, Jesse said jokingly from the drivers seat. Well thats one plus side, I guess, I said back. But the downside is, not enough sleep, Nikki said stretching. When we finally reached the school Jesse and I walked around for a while hand in hand before the bell rang for our first class.

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So you promise to keep Nikki in line when it comes to Jessica? Jesse asked as we started to walk towards my first period class. I promise. I dont want to see Jessica upset either and this might just crush her. Well that, but we all know how Nikki can get with her sarcastic remarks. Thats true, I promise to keep an eye on her. Jesse smiled, Ill see you after school alright? Yes sir, I said as I returned the smile. He squeezed my hand lightly as we approached my classroom and he walked in for a second to wave hello to Nikki. Later Ty, he said as he gave my hand one last squeeze before walking off. What was all that about? Jessica whispered to Nikki when I had taken a seat in my Spanish class. Whatever do you mean Jessica? Nikki asked as if she had been blinded to the whole situation. That she said pointing to me, Why was she holding hands with Jesse? Ummexcuse me, I said turning to face her, But that has a name you know? Fine. Taylor. Thank you. Thats all you had to say, I said turning back around to face the front of the classroom. So why were you holding hands with Jesse? Jessica asked. Jesse who? Nikki asked, trying to continue her little game with Jessica. Jesseyour brother. You know his last name is Parker.

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Oh, Nikki said looking back at me, That Jesse. I have no earthly idea Jessica. Do you know why you were holding hands with Jesse, Ty? Nikki, dont tease Jessica, I said back to Nikki before turning to face Jessica, Jessica, Jesse and I started to court three days ago. What? Jessica screamed. Excuse me Ms. Blake is there a problem? Mr. Anderson asked Jessica. No sir. I apologize. I looked back behind me at Nikki and heard her let out a giggle. Wait, so you and Jesse are courting now? Jessica whispered over to me, I knew this was going to happen. It just happened you have to trust me. I didnt even know he liked me. I said. How did you not know? Even I knew that, Jessica said disgusted. Youll have to forgive her, Nikki said patting me on my shoulder, she was a little blind to the fact. But he told me that he wasnt going to date until God put the right girl into his life, and you cant be that girl. Jessica cried. Why cant I be? I asked. BecauseI was supposed to be that girl, Jessica said sobbing hard into her hands. Why do you think youre supposed to be that girl? I asked truly confused. Because were soul mates, duh, Jessica said as she started to glare at me, Havent you noticed our namesJesse and Jessica? Were meant to be together! Theres no such thing as soul mates Jessica, Nikki said amused. 196

Shes right Jessica, and dont worry youll find someone better I dont want someone better! she shot back at me, I want Jesse! Ms. Blake! Mr. Anderson yelled across the classroom, I will not tolerate any more of your yelling. I am about to start teaching a class. Please excuse yourself from the classroom right this second. Jessica directed her gaze at me and glared before picking up her backpack and stomping out of the classroom. I was only trying to help, I whispered back to Nikki solemnly. I dont think she wants your help. But dont worry Ty, if God wants you to help Jessica hell put the right situation into her life for you to help her through. Yeah. I guess youre right. Of course Im right. I just wish I could help her now you know? No matter how she treats me, if Ive learned nothing this past week is that we all need hope and faith in God to help us through the direst of situations. I just want to help her get there. You will Ty; your time will come to help Jessica. Just let it pass right now; let her be on her own. When God says its time youll know. When did you become such an expert? I listened to your grandmother when she spoke yesterday. Very wise, your grandmother. Dont I know it? Just wait and be patient, your time to help Jessica will come sooner than you think. I knew she was right. I couldnt help Jessica if she refused to accept my help, but in Gods perfect 197

timing if he would allow for me to be there to help out Jessica then I would help her with all my strength, because everyone deserves Gods peace and compassion. Okay class, today we are going to talk about how to properly conjugate Spanish verbs, because it seems that a few of you are still having trouble comprehending this chapter. It was at that moment that I began to pray for her. Dear Jesus, please give Jessica peaceand remind her of the undying love that you have for her

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Thursday: May 5 Dear Diary, Its almost been two months since my Spring Break trip to Texas. Grandma and I finally got a house! Its about two minutes away from the Parker house and its really nice. Its a five bedroom, three and a half bath two-story townhome. Theres a rather large master bedroom for grandma which has a large walk-in closet for all her fine clothes and shoes, and a second bedroom for me that is almost just as large. I even have my own bathroom. We even have three guest rooms for any time that Nikki or Grandmas friends want to visit. Grandma had over a hundred Jasmine flowers delivered to make her feel more at home. Charles arrived two days ago and will be living in the guest house in the back. He was not happy about moving to Indiana, but he would do almost anything for Grandma and he is well on his way to getting everything in decent order. Jesse, Nikki, and the twins are all doing great. I still ride to school with the Parkers every day and see them every weekend. Before my parents accident we always had sleepovers and now with Grandma here we are able to do it again. Jesse graduates at the end of the month from high school and Nikki and I will officially be seniors. I am really looking forward to being a senior college here I come! Something strange has been going on with Jessica. Nikki and I have noticed that she doesnt get 201

to school lately until after the last bell has rang and although she has always made As her grades have been steadily going down. The other day the teacher called on her to answer a question and we all realized that she had fallen asleep. At first Nikki and I thought that her sudden change might have something to do with Jesse and I, but yesterday we found out from Mrs. Parker that Jessicas mom has breast cancer. What! Nikki and I exclaimed in unison. Yeah! She had a mastectomy to remove the cancer, but she told me that it has already began to spread. Theyve tried chemo and radiation, but it doesnt seem to be working. They said that she might only have a few months to live unless Unless what? I asked. Unless, they send her mom to a special hospital in Texas! Seriously? Nikki asked sarcastically, Is that the only place they can think of? No, but it is the only place with the medical care that she is looking for, Mrs. Parker responded. So is she going to go? Jesse asked. According to her mom, Jessica wants her to go, but she doesnt want her there alone. She wants to go with her. Her mom said that they are short on finances right now and they have no family or friends that live in Texas for Jessica to stay with. That stinks, I said looking back at the TV, poor Jessica. Ty, Jesse began saying, What about your grandmothers house? 202

Jesseno. I dont think Grandma would be willing to lend her house out. Why not? Because she doesnt live in Texas anymoreshe lives here now we live herein Indiana. So youre not going to Texas for the summer? Jesse asked. Of course we are, my grandma stated as she entered into the living room. Why would we not go? My home is there. Awesome! Jesse said as he began to relay the news to grandmother about Jessica and her mother. I think it sounds like an excellent idea Taylor. There is enough room for Jessica to stay with us and she could visit her mother at her own convenience. But grandmaI started to say. Plusshe will need a friend to get her through this hard time Taylor, and that friend just might have to be you. I thought a while on this before agreeing to house Jessica. Alrightits fine with me. Love your neighbor as yourself right? Exactly! my grandma said, Plus youll have your friends there to help support you in return. Thats an excellent idea, Mrs. Parker said rising up from the sofa. I might even get a chance to come myself.

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That is a great idea, I said with a grin on my face as I looked toward Jesse and Nikki, I forgot the two of you would also be there with me. Do I have to go? Nikki asked. Nikki, were turning over a new leaf remember? Fine Ill go. But I wont like it. Good enough for me. Jesse? Of course Im going. Its an easy commute from your house to the college and Ill help out whenever Im not busy with football. It sounds like its settled then. Kendra, my grandma said to Mrs. Parker, can you speak to Jessicas mother and see if she would be willing to allow Jessica to stay with us while she receives her treatment. Please let her know that I will provide anything that Jessica needs and she does not have to worry about finances. I will take care of everything. If she approves, Jessica can come down whenever her mom is ready for treatment. Thank you Grace, Mrs. Parker said to my grandma Im sure she will be relieved. Thats the way the conversation went so now I have to brace myself for the impact of spending my summer vacation with Jessica Blake. This ought to be fun! I just hope that the time until then doesnt go by too fast. Tick tock, tick tock. Thats the sound my clock is makingjust keep a steady beat like that and Ill be able to prepare myself. Love is kind Taylor, love is kindI can remember that! Tick tock, tick tock. Slow down a little! 204

Taylor!

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