Starting Over

She stood by the fresh grave wondering what she would do now.Her mother's body in the casket,now being covered over with dirt.She watched till she could no longer see the casket. She turned and walked toward the funeral car that was waiting for her.She told the driver that she would walk home,it was only a few blocks. As she walked she remembered the events of the day.

Annie was the product of her mother's first and only, marriage. Her father left after less than a year with her mother. He could no longer put up with the verbal abuse. He tried to take the new born Annie with him, but her mother got a restraining order, and he never saw her again. But Annie never forgot him. Her mother constantly reminded her, how much like him she was.

As tears formed in her crystal blue eyes, the cold air stinging her face, she grew angry for allowing her mother to control her for so long. She missed a lot of the things people do when growing up. She had no friends, male or female. She wasn't allowed to go to school functions, she had a few acquaintances in high school her mother never knew about. But Annie would not make close friends, her mother would only drive them away. And going to college was not even thought about. She would miss her mother, but the tears shed were not for her. When she reached the house she shared with her mother, she stood and looked at it,"Maybe I'll sell it, and find a small apartment". she thought to herself. She walked up the front steps and unlocked the door. As she stepped inside, the first thing that hit her was the smell of her mother's old perfume.

Annie spent the next few days going through her mother's things.Her mother wore only business suits,so all of those were packed in boxes.She had not come across any items that held good memories,so everything else would be sold,the money donated to charities. The one item she kept was a diamond ring she had seen her mother wear,many times,when going out for business dinners.She would always hold her mother's hand when she had it on,then move it around to watch it sparkle,Her mother would smile down at her,it was the closest she came to showing Annie any affection. A week after the funeral,the lawyer read her mother's will.As expected everything went to Annie.Except for running the business,which would be handled by the present employees and the lawyer.Financially Annie was set for the rest of her life.And for that,she was grateful to her mother.As she expected,Mrs.Johnson wasn't mentioned,Annie would make sure she was taken care of,An anonymous deposit would be made in her account,every month.

He had been in this business for nine year,but it felt like much longer.His body was giving out,more and more he was plagued by minor injuries,from the abuse he inflicted on it night after night.More often he would think of retiring.Not wanting to hang on and become a joke like others had. The divorce was hard on him.not only that she had found some one else,but he missed his sons.Also the security of having a home to go to,when he had time off.In reality,now he was just staying in hotels,till it was time for the next show. Women were no problem,he could pretty much pick who he wanted when the need arose.Most of them would do anything because of who he was.The others,in the same business were to wrapped up in their careers to work at a permanent relationship.While he was around beautiful women all the time,none had captured his heart.He was lonely,but didn't want to go through the pain of a divorce again.He had just about decided to spend the rest of his life alone. But how he did miss having some one of his own,a best friend,to share his life with.

Returning home after hearing the will read,Annie started thinking about what she would do.With her mother gone,she knew she had to venture out into the real world.It would be difficult,her mother never prepared her for this day,and her shyness would be a hinderance.She thought if she had a job,even though she didn't need too,maybe she could make some friends,and learn how to socialize.Maybe finding some lasting friends that her mother couldn't drive away.A boyfriend? Who would want her.

Annie rose the next morning ready to start here new life. She showered and went to the closet to find some suitable clothes,she didn't have much to choose from,she would have to go shopping, she thought. She found a pair of black jeans and a pretty blouse to wear,her excitement was growing as she prepare herself for the day ahead of her.

Before she did anything else,she made her bed and straightened her room,something she was made to do every morning,as soon as she was old enough.As she stood in the door way,admiring her handy work,she had a strong urge to go back and undo what she just did.After all,there was no one to tell her what to do anymore.But she turned away and went to check her appearance in the bathroom.

"Your not very pretty,and far from beautiful!",she heard these words as if her mother were standing right behind her.Tears formed in her eyes as she looked at her image in the mirror,she quickly blinked them away,It would have to do for now. Maybe make-up would help,she added it to her list of things to buy.She would go shopping after she went to the hotel. She left the house,her heart pounding,her stomach feeling queasy.Every step she took was forced,she stopped several times,ready to turn and go home,after all she didn't have to work."No",she toldherself,she had to do it.She had to start living a normal life.Whatever that might be.

When she finally reached the hotel,she stood outside for a few moments,to calm herself.With a shaky hand,she reached out and opened the door,she went inside on legs that felt lie they had turned to jelly.She looked around the lobby,thankfully there were only a few people there.Not knowing who to talk to,she went to the reception desk.

He smiled and introduced himself as Mr.Thomson,"We are looking for housekeepers,if your interested in that?". "That's just what I'm looking for". Mr.Thomson looked at her,then said,"Aren't you Annie Franklin,You don't need a job like this." She put her head down,thinking he wouldn't hire her,knowing who she was,then found the courage to say,"Yes,Mr.Thomson I do need a job,I need to make a life for myself."

She left feeling a little more sure of herself.Now to get some shopping done.She realized she had no cash on her,the lawyer had said that everything was now in her name.So she headed to the bank. The gentleman she talked to was very helpful,advising Annie to open her own checking account,and apply for credit cards,to get herself established.She did all this,now she was in control of the money.She could do what she wanted to with it.With every step she took toward her new life,the more confidence she gained.

He was standing by the bar when she came in,he noticed her,she was at the show,in the front row.He noticed her then too.She had reached out to touch him,he moved close enough so her finger tips brushed his arm. He felt himself stir,as he watched her find a table,it had been a while for him.She knew he was watching her,as soon as she sat down,she made eye contact with him. She smiled,he smiled back.He ordered two beers and went to join her.They started talking,although he soon discovered she was not much for conversation.She gushed over him,the usual stuff,he thought to himself.She was his greatest fan,she has followed his career for years,she heard about the divorce she could help him get over it,they all ended their speech the same way,"I would love to spend the night with you".He felt his pocket to make sure his protection was there,he would be safe.He smiled at her,stood up,put his hand out for her to take,"Come on,let's get out of here".

Annie was excited,today would be her first day of work.Her new life,making her own money.She was proud of herself,what might seem trivial to others,were great strides for her. She left the house feeling confident.But she felt that confidence wane the closer she got to the hotel.She fought the urge again to turn around and run home."I can do this",she whispered to herself,"I have to do this". When she reached the hotel,she took some deep breathes,and went inside.Mr.Thomson greeted her,the woman standing next to him smiled."Annie,this is Marissa,she will show you around". "Hello,Annie,nice to meet you",she said,"I think you will like it here". Marissa put her hand out,Annie shook her hand,"Its nice to meet you,too". Marissa could feel Annie's hand shaking.she gave her a reassuring smile. "There's nothing to be nervous about",she said," Come with me,I'll show you around". Annie thought Marissa was very nice,she would make a nice friend.Annie then thought,maybe she was hopeing for to much.

He woke the next morning,his body sore from the previous night's match.He moved to relieve the soreness,and felt the body next to him,He looked at her,he couldn't even remember her name.He sat on the edge of the bed for a moment,with his head in his hands.He always felt bad the morning after,even though he knew it was a one night stand,with someone who only wanted to be with him because of who he was.

But it did,this wasn't how he planned to spend his life. He wanted more.He got up and put his pants on.Then in a loud,booming voice he said,"Time to get up,honey,I have to catch a plan!" The woman woke with a start,"You scared me!",she said,"You could have done that a little quieter!". "Sorry,but I have to go". Still mumbling the woman gathered her clothes and went into the bathroom.When she came out,she when to him.She ran her hand over his mucsular chest,she handed him a pece of paper,"Here's my number,call me next time your in town". "Yea,sure thing". He watched her leave,as soon as she was gone,he threw the paper in the trash.

Annie loved her job,Each day it was easier for her get there,and socialize with the other workers.She and Marissa got along great.Annie found her to be very friendly,and easy to be around.They would sometimes spend their lunch hour,talking.It surprised Annie that she was so at ease with Marissa.Annie liked Bryce too,she and Marissa had been friends for along time.Bryce was funny,always making jokes.

Annie agreed to go,It might be fun,and she wouldn't have to sit home by herself.At first having the house to herself was wonderful.She didn't have to listen to her mother's ranting,and she didn't have to watch dress to go out,telling Annie she couldn't go because,"You might embarrass me",she would say. But more and more Annie didn't like the feeling of being alone. The honking of a car horn brought her out of her thoughts.She looked out the window,to see Bryce waiting.She gathered her things,and went out the door.On the way to Marissa's,Bryce tried to explain what went on in wrestling,How it was staged,most of the time no one really gets hurt, "Most of the time?".

The program started with loud explosions,then there were a lot of people holding signs up A few that Anne could read were,THE ROCK SAYS,,alot that just said ROCK.There was one cross-like symbol with the letters COTN on it, Another that said "SHOW ME YOUR PUPPIES" Annie couldn't figure out why they would have puppies on this type of program.As the show progressed.Annie was amused at the way Bryce and Marissa,reacted to the different men that came to fight,booing some,cheering others.

Bryce seemed especially fond of one called "Edge".Annie had to agree,he was very handsome.Marissa liked the one called "Kane", But he wore a mask,Annie did enjoy the muscles in his arm,and when they showed him close you could see his chest through his shirt. She was beginning to see why they liked this wrestling stuff. The last fight of the show,brought out someone called "Big Show",Who, apparently Marissa and Bryce didn't like. The lights went out on the t.v, Bryce and Marissa both let out little squeals of delight.

The the sound of a bell tolling,The audience cheered wildly,A figure dressed in black made his way down the ramp.Annie was awe-struck by the scene on the t.v,and the effect the man seemed to have on everyone.Especially Marissa and Bryce. As the man continued down the ramp,they showed close-ups of his face,at one point it looked like he had no eyes. When Annie saw them reappear,she uttered a barely audible "Wow!". Marissa and Bryce both looked at Annie,they giggled,And Annie blushed.

It had been a tough match,but he won,he knew before he started he would win,But a match against Show was always hard,He walked with a slight limp back to his dressing room.As he showered he thought about joining the others at the local bar.But the pain in his hip told him no,he needed to rest,not end up with another nameless body in his bed.He dressed,gathered his things,and headed out. He met Glen on his way,they walked out together and were instantly mobbed by fans.

"Why can't security keep them out of the parking lot",he thought,a little annoyed,But he signed autographs,just the same. The crowd started to thin out,some of the faces familiar,groupies,they follow their favorite wrestler,like some follow rock bands.Hoping to get some extra time with them,or perhaps more. The bolder ones would offer,most of the time they were turned down. Glen asked if he was going out with the others,he said,"No,my hip is killing me,I'm going to the hotel." "Then I'll ride along with you,if you don't mind." "Sure,come on,lets go". When he got to is room,he quickly undressed,and got in bed.As he lay there deep in thought,a tear formed and ran out the corner of his eye.He quickly brushed it away,then rolled on to his side,and fell asleep.

The next day at work Annie,Marissa,and Bryce,were discussing the show.Bryce And Marissa were gushing over their favorites,especially the one called Undertaker. Annie didn't understand their fascination with him.She thought some of the others were better looking.She liked the one called Christian. Annie decided to buy a t.v,She thought it would be nice to have her new friends to her house. Marissa and Bryce were curious about it.They asked Annie how she could put up with her mother all those years.Annie could never find the right answer.But she always thought her mother was afraid of being alone,so she made sure Annie would stay with her the only way she knew how.

By Thursday,Annie had everything ready. The new t.v was there and she had cable,turned on.While Annie waited for her friends she flipped through the channels,and was amazed at the variety of programs that were on. It also kept her from be nervous about having Marissa and Bryce at her home for the first time.She hoped they liked it.Then she heard the door bell ring.

Annie blushed again,thankful that it was time for Kane and The Undertaker to fight,diverting the girls attention back to the t.v. As the match went on,Marissa and Bryce said they didn't know who to cheer for,they wished Kane nd Taker wouldn't fight each other.Annie still didn't see why they thought Undertaker was so fascinating. Even though it was a character he played,it still seemed morbid.The match ended with no clear winner,Bryce said they were counted out. They listened as future show dates were announced."They never come here,"Marissa said.As they named the last city,the announcer said they would be in Denver on June 7th.

"Your probably right",Marissa said. Without even thinking,Annie said,"I could take you to the show if you really want to go". "Annie,you can't afford to pay for all of us,that's alot of money". "Yes,I can afford to do it,I would love to do this for you both". "Have you been saving your wages from the hotel?",Marissa asked. "No,I use that for household expenses,my mother left me some money".

"I really don't need to work,but it was the only way I could think of to meet people,besides June 7th is my birthday,it would be a great way to celebrate,,,,,,wouldn't it?,Please let me do this for you". Marissa and Bryce looked at each other,then at Annie,"Please,I so grateful for your friendship,I want to do something for you both". "You don't need to pay us to be your friends". "I know,but it is something I can do for you,you both have been a great help to me,and I have to admit,I wouldn't mind seeing them in person". Marissa and Bryce laughed,and at the same time hugged Annie.Surprised at the show of affection,tears formed in Annie's eyes,she put one arm around Marissa and one around Bryce. When they let go,Marissa said,"Looks like we are going to see a live show!". Annie smiled,a tear rolled down her cheek

By early afternoon they were exhausted.They decided to get some rest at there hotel before the show.Then they would have dinner at one of Denver's finer restaurants,before going to the arena. They got there early so they could take pictures of the wrestlers arriving.They saw The Hardy Boyz,Jericho,The Godfather,And many others. Then Annie saw Christian,She snapped a few pictures of him,Then watched him as he entered the arena.Bryce poked Annie ,,to get her attention.

Come on,lets get our seats". They had front row seats,next to the bottom of the ramp,Marissa thought this was a good place to be.She said they would get to see everyone close-up. The show started and they were having a great time,If a wrestler came close to the guard rail,Marissa and Bryce reach out to touch them. Annie took a lot of pictures.

The music started that told Bryce Edge and Christian were coming out."They come through the audience,Annie,stand up so you can see,look their coming this way,put your hand out". As they past Annie and Bryce got to touch both of them,Edge and Christian gave each hand a little squeeze as they went by.Annie could smell Christian's Cologne as he pasted her,it was wonderful she thought.Their match against The Hardy Boyz ended quickly.Edge and Christian the winners.

A bell tolled and The Undertaker made his entrance,Annie though it was more impressive in person,And he was alot taller than she thought he would be. As the match progressed,they ended up outside the ring,right in front of the girls.Annie watched as Kane kicked Taker in the chest and sent him over the rail.Taker misjudged his distance,as if watching in slow motion,Annie saw his hand coming toward her.She tried to move but it was to late,As Taker brought his hand around to break his fall,it came into to contact with Annie's nose,causing her to fall side ways out of her chair,her head hitting the floor with a loud thud.

He new what happened before he hit the floor.He quickly rolled on to his knees,and looked a the woman he hit.She had a very shocked looked on her face.He put his hands on her shoulders and helped her to a sitting position.Annie immediately put her hand to her head,at the same time,blood started running from her nose.She heard him mumble a barely audible,"Shit!".Then,"I'm sorry,let me help you up,we'll get a doctor for you".He motioned to the announcers.The blood from Annie's nose was running down the front of her shirt,she moved her hand from her head to try to stop it,but it too was covered in blood."Dammit!",he said.

Just as a para-medic arrived,and before Annie knew what was happening,he lifted her in his arms.She looked at him and said"I'm okay". "No,your not,the para-medic will take you to the back".He handed her over the guard rail to Kane, Who set her back on her feet.The para-medic gave her cold clothes for her head and nose,then walked her back stage.Taker turned to Marissa and Bryce,they looked as shocked as Annie. He told them to walk along side the ramp,and it would take them backstage.They left to find Annie.

Minutes later,Taker was there asking where she was,Kane was right behind him.He felt very bad about what he'd done,even though he knew it was an accident.He pushed his way through the crowd that had formed around Annie.All these people were making Annie nervous,Bryce and Marissa had gotten pushed to the back of the crowd.Edge stayed with them Kane pushed through the crowd with Taker,To see how the woman was doing.

Annie heard Mark utter another "Dammit!". For the first time,her eyes met his,she saw the worried look on his face,"Its okay,It was an accident",she said to him,in a soft voice.They looked at each other for a moment,till Annie looked away.Mark stood up and tried to get everyone to move away from her.Nobody budged. He told the doctor to come with him,He then lifted Annie into his arms again ,and headed for his dressing room.

"I can walk". "I know",was all he said. When they reached his room,he set her down in a soft leather chair.The doctor gave her another ice pack for her nose,and went to work on her head.Annie closed her eyes,a moment later Mark saw the tear run down her cheek,he pulled a chair close to hers and held her hand. With his finger he brushed the tear away.

When he left the room,tears flowed from Annie's eyes,how embarrassed she was. She should have gotten out of the way,they must all think her a fool,she thought to herself. She closed her eyes against the pain in her head,and the humiliation she felt for creating such a scene,she drifted into a light sleep.She didn't hear the door open and close,She didn't realize Mark sat across the room watching her.

He had told her friends,she was alright,but the doctor wanted her to rest awhile. Kane and Edge offered to take them back to their hotel,but Marissa and Bryce refused to leave without seeing her.He took them to the room,and they peeked in.She was sleeping. It was getting late,Marissa and Bryce were hungry and tired.He assured them he would get her to the hotel safely when she was ready to go.Marissa made him promise to let her know when she got there.So they left with Kane and Edge.

He sat across from her watching her sleep."She's very beautiful",he thought.She looked like someone he wouldn't mind knowing better.But he knew after tonight he may never see her again.She stirred in her sleep,it was then that he noticed the light bruises forming under her eyes.He closed his eyes for a moment,fighting the emotion that suddenly welled up.He got up from the chair,and went over to her.Her shirt was a mess,the blood on it was dry,He would replace it for her.

He realized he was still in his ring gear,he gathered his clothes,and went to shower,hoping it wouldn't wake her.He got in the shower and finished as fast as he could.He dressed quickly and went to check on her. She woke while he was in the shower,a little disoriented at first,then reality set in,and the events of the evening came flooding back.She got up from the chair,which made her head hurt,and looked in the mirror,It looked like some one painted a light blue stripe,under her eyes,and across her nose.She touched the stitches in the side of her head,a little of her hair had been shaved.But she would be able to hide that,she couldn't hide her face,she thought.

Mark pointed to a door,"There's a bathroom in there",he said. When she put the shirt on,it stopped just above her knees,"He is a very big man",she thought. She threw the bloody shirt and bra in the trash can. When she came out,the first thing Mark noticed was the way the t-shirt clung to her ample breasts,the friction of the material,hardened her nipples,he felt the first stirrings of desire.He quickly looked away.

"Oh,no I promised your friends I would make sure you got there safely,I'll walk you to your door." He took her hand and walked toward the elevators. On the ride up,he said again,"I wish you would let me do something for you". She just shook her head, "Can I at least buy you breakfast in the morning?'. "We're leaving very early ",she said,"but if we are still here,I guess it would be alright." He smiled and nodded.

Marissa thanked him and went to check on Annie. He went back to the elevator and went two floors up to his own room. When he got to his room he undressed and got in bed.He lay awake thinking about Annie,He thought about holding her in the limousine,How their bodies seemed to fit together like two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.How she didn't seem impressed at all with who he was.He decided,no matter what it took,he was going to get to know her,Spend some time with her.Maybe a lifetime.He rolled onto his side,and drifted off to sleep.

Annie layed down on the back seat.She thought about him,Mark,it was a good name for him. She could still feel the heat of his hand on her arm,the sound of his heartbeat still fresh in her ear.But he was gone,she would never see him again,except on t.v. What would he want with some one like her anyway."Your not very pretty!".Her mothers words brought her back to reality.

When they got home their lives got back to what they considered normal.Annie took a couple of days off from work,on the advice of her doctor,but every day the bruising faded a little.It was to that ugly purplish-yellow stage,when she went back to work. Bryce And Marissa would talk about Glen and Adam arriving in two days.They would tease Annie about Mark coming to sweep her off her feet..She didn't believe for a minute that he would come.

He was restless,pacing the backstage area of the arena.When this show was over,Glen,Adam,and he would be heading to Aurora.He had his doubts about going.maybe she didn't want to see him,"Suppose she doesn't like me?",he thought.But he knew he had to go,he had to see her again.He had to know if he had a chance with her.When he closed his eyes,he could still feel her next to him.Never had a woman affected him this way.

They tried to convince Annie to go to the airport with them,but she refused.There was no reason for her to be there she insisted.And if he did come,It wouldn't be because of her.Annie told if they wanted,they could come to her house,from the airport,and she would cook a meal for them.They would probably like a home-cooked meal. Bryce quickly agreed,Marissa didn't like the idea,she couldn't wait to be alone with Glen. Bryce told her what was going on.

"Yes,,,You should be there". As they started to leave,Marissa noticed Bryce and Adam weren't following,when see looked over at them,they were still in each others arms locked in a very passionate kiss! Glen walked back and stood next to them,then in a very loud voice he said,"We are leaving,are you coming?".The loudness of his voice startled them,causing Bryce to blush,Adam flashed a big toothy grin.

The sound of a car pulling in the drive way caught her attention,She looked out the window and saw Marissa's car.She went to check her self in the hallway mirror.Her nose was back to normal,but there were still dark purple spots in the corners of her eyes."Well theres nothing I can do about them",she thought,as she went to the door to greet her guests.

She opened the door in time to see them getting out of the car,Marissa and Glen,Bryce and Adam.But there was a fifth person,she saw, she looked,trying to see who it was.When she recognized Mark,the look on her face was priceless.Her heart started to race,her hands shook,Then she heard her mother's voice,as if she were standing right next to her,"Stop it Annie,control yourself,he's not here for you!". Annie got herself under control,just as they reached the door. Marissa and Glen came in first,"Well,you look a hell of a lot better,than the last time I saw you,Thanks for having us over",He said. Then kissed Annie on the cheek.

Then Mark.He put his hand out for Annie to shake.When he squeezed his hand around her's,she felt her whole body heat up. "Hi",he said,"I have to agree with Glen,you look great.It's nice to see you again,Annie". "It's nice to see you,too." As if by some unseen force,they were locked in each others gaze.Mark remembering what Marissa told him in the car.Annie feeling an excitement she never knew before.

"It would be nice,but I don't want to put Annie to any extra trouble". "t wouldn't be any trouble,would it Annie",Marissa asked. Annie was mildly shocked at Marissa's suggestion.But se did have extra rooms,it would be a nice change for him,she thought.Marissa was standing behind Mark,nodding her head at Annie. Annie heard herself say,"It wouldn't be any trouble,your welcome to stay here if you would like to".

When they reached the bed,Glen lifted her and set her gently on the bed,then crawled on top of her.He started at her forehead and worked his way down.Stopping at her lips,as they explored each others mouth.He went to her neck,licking ,kissing and nibbling.Then he took her breast in his mouth,sucking and teasing the tender tip till it was erect and hard,he did the same to the other.Marissa was in ecstasy,she could feel his hardening manhood on her thigh,She reached down,but Glen pulled away,he took her hand and kissed the palm,then continued his way down her body.his hand reached the center of her desire,he could feel the heat,He slowly moved his mouth down her belly till his tongue replaced his fingers.He brought Marissa to the very edge,then stopped.He rolled on to his side pulling her with him,holding her till she calmed. Marissa then pushed Glen on to his back,and started her own explorations.She worked her way down his chest and belly,kissing and licking as she went.avoiding his growing manhood,when she finally took him in her mouth,he gasped at the feel of her lips wrapped around him.Before he lost all control,he pulled her up to him.She positioned herself over him,and slowly lowered herself onto his waiting manhood,letting herself adjust to his size.They started to move in rhythm with each other,Their breathing quickened,Marissa released first,a second later Glen followed,with a deep moaning,Marissa collapsed on to him,and buried her face in his chest,Glen wrapped his arms around her tightly and rolled them to their side,He pulled a blanket over them,and still joined,they fell asleep.

He cupped her breast in his hand,as he licked and nipped at her neck.Bryce ran her hands over his hard,well muscled body. Since Bryce was a little on the short side,Adam layed her on the bed.She sat up,as he stood in front of her,she wrapped her arms around him,and teased his belly with her tongue.She could feel his manhood pressing against her chest.She bent,and took him in her mouth.Adam moaned,and put his hands on her head.Hearing him moan increased her own excitement.Adam gently pushed her back on the bed,and returned the pleasure she had given him.When he felt she was ready,he positioned himself between her legs.He entered her slowly,She moaned as he started to move into her.He started moving in her,she arched her back to might each thrust .He moved faster and harder,till they reached their limit at the same time.Adam buried his face in the hollow of her neck,and moaned her name.Bryce wrapped her arms tightly around him,they stayed like this till both regained their composure.then crawled into bed,and slept in each others arms.

"Annie,before I leave here your going to know how beautiful you are".He put his fingers under her chin,and forced her to look up at him. She looked into his green eyes,and something told her he was being sincere.He bent and softly brushed his lips against hers.She felt herself blush,feeling a little flustered,she said, "I better go lock up". Her eyes were still lost in his."I'll come with you". He walked through the house with her,while she made sure everything was locked. When they started back upstairs,she said to him,"Marissa shouldn't have told you about Mother".

"I'm glad she did,I want t know everything about you". Stunned by his words again,she could only look at him.He took her hands and pulled her into him. "Your very special to me Annie,your mother was wrong,you are worth caring about". Again,he bent and kissed her,a little longer,and a little harder.When he broke the kiss,he brushed her face wit his fingers,and smiled at her. "Good night,Annie". He turned and went to his room. She could only stand there for a minute,feeling like her legs weren't going to support her.

She went to her room,undressed and got in bed.She lay awake for a long time,thinking of the things he said to her,still feeling his lips on hers,still feeling the warmth of his touch.A tear slid from her eye,she had suppressed her feeling for so long,she wasn't sure she knew how to feel anything. After thinking long and hard,she decided she would let him into her heart.Maybe it would last,maybe not,but it was time to try.just before she fell asleep,for the first time,she wondered what it would be like to make love to him.

Every so often he would move her arm so it rubbed against his chest.Annie tried hard to control her breathing,the one time she dared to look at him she could see a fine layer of red hair covering his chest.She wanted very badly to reach over and run her hand over it.Out of the corner of his eye,he saw her looking at him. Then the phone rang.She tried to pull out of his grip,but not before he flatten her hand against his chest,and rubbed it over his nipple again.Looking her straight in the eye.She took a deep breathe. Annie was flustered and flushed,without saying a word,she walked into the house.

She answered the phone,"How's it going over there Annie?". It was Marissa, "Everything is fine,"Annie said,sounding out of breath. "Whats going on,you sound all out of breath?" Marissa looked over at Glen and smiled,she could guess what was happening.If he hadn't already had her it would happen son. "Nothing,we were sitting outside,,,Marissa,,,I'm scared,Why would he want someone like me,,,I don't know what to,or what to say,I can talk to him about anything,but when it comes to,,,,,,sex,I don't know what to do". Marissa heard her voice break,Marissa knew Annie was scared,And she knew what a struggle it was for Annie to make all these changes in her life.But Annie had met the world head on,at an age when most people already knew what they wanted from life.Mark would be the most important change for her.Though Mark didn't say so,Marissa felt that he loved Annie,when she mentioned it to Glen,he agreed,Marissa knew Mark would take good care of Annie.

"Annie,just relax,everything will just happen the way its supposed to when the time comes,you like him Annie?". "Yes,,,very much,he makes me feel good." "Then you have nothing to worry about,just let it happen,He knows what he's doing,he'll take care of you.I'm not going to call you till tomorrow,but if you need me,I'll be right here,okay?" "Okay",Annie hung up the phone,just as Mark came through the door. "That was Marissa,they won't be over,she says their busy." He smiled,and nodded his head,"I'll bet their busy". Annie blushed,she knew what he meant.

They spent the rest of the afternoon talking,holding each other,touching,teasing. Annie grew bolder and more confidante. She came to understand that she could trust him,She felt ready to give herself to him,whenever he wanted her,if he wanted her. It was late afternoon when he fell asleep on the couch.Mother would be in a rage,she thought, and smiled to herself.

Mark was awake when she came and stood by the couch.He could smell her lightly perfumed scent.She was getting a little bolder,he thought,she returned some of his teasing.she has a very quick wit,and a great sense of humor.She amazed herself at times,it was wonderful to see her transformation.He knew his feelings for her were growing stronger all the time,he would be her first lover,but he also wanted to be the last.It was then that he felt her hand on his chest.

He slowly opened his eyes,they met her's."You should get up,you won't be able to sleep tonight". He smiled up at her,reached up and touched her face."I think I'll sleep just fine,"he winked at her. making her blush. "I fixed you something to eat,unless yo want to go out for a while". As he stood,he told her he didn't want to eat in a restaurant,he wanted to stay there with her.She smiled,she didn't really want to go out.

Later,as they sat on the couch,He put his arm over her shoulders,she rested her head on his chest. His fingers gently brushed against her neck,worked their way down,lower till they traced the edge of her bra,over the top of her breasts. He felt her body shiver as she took in a quick breath.He put his mouth to her ear,"I want you,Annie",he whispered.She nodded her head.

He stood and put his hand out to her,she took it.He lead her upstairs.She hesitated before going into his room,he knew what she was thinking,"This is not you mother's room anymore".He smiled,and nothing else mattered. Still holding her hand he went to the bed and sat down,she stood in front of him."Are you sure?",he asked. "Yes",was all she said,and ran her fingers through his hair. He put his hands under her shirt,and pushed it up and over her head,then removed his own.He opened his legs,and pulled her to him.He knew she was scared,he kissed her,gently at first,then with more passion,pushing his tongue into her mouth.As best as she could she returned his passion.he reached around her,and opened her bra,he slid it off,and dropped it to the floor.he put a hand on each breast and gently squeezed,then he bent and took one sensitive tip into his mouth.He flicked with his tongue,and sucked.Annie moaned from the sensations it caused,she kissed the top of his head.

He continued on the other side.Annie was getting weak in the knees.She put her hands on his thighs for support,she moaned softly,her breaths comeing quick and deep.He stopped what he was doing and looked in her eyes,"Its going to hurt at first Annie." He looked worried,she put a hand on his face,"I'm ready," He stood,lifted her in his arms,and laid her on the bed.Then he finished undressing.He stood naked before her,She marvelled at the beauty of his body.He unzipped Annie's jeans and pulled them off.Annie reached over and took his manhood in her hand,he groaned softly,and climbed on top of her,He kissed her,and started to work his way down,His fingers found her pleasure point,she jumped at the sensation,then his tongue replaced his fingers. Her breathing was ragged,She let out a long soft moan as he brought her to climax. He inserted a finger,and felt Annie's last barrier. He knew she was ready for him.He moved back up her body.He kissed her,then positioned his self between her legs.He inserted the tip of his manhood,she closed her eyes against the pain.

He knew talking to her not only soothed her,but gave her time to adjust to his size.She opened her eyes,She saw his beautiful smile."Ready?". '''Yes". He started to move inside her,There was more pain at first,He kept telling her to relax,the more she did the better it felt.She started to move with him,the pleasure growing with each of his thrusts.She wrapped her arms tightly around his neck,as her excitement reached its peak,she cried out his name,tears filling her eyes.A second later,Mark released his warm seed inside her.She heard a deep throaty growl as he did.her tears spilled over,when he looked at her,he kissed them away. He held her tightly,as he rolled on to his side,still inside her.They spoke no more words,he covered them and they slept...

Annie woke up around 3am,a little disoriented.She was curled up against Mark's chest,She didn't want to move,but she had to use the bathroom.She felt a little sore,but nothing to bad.She washed up a bit while she was in there,it was very hot in this room.As she washed her face she looked in the mirror,she saw a pretty woman looking back.A thought crossed her mind,that made her giggle,"Oh,,,Mother,if you weren't already dead,you would be now".She scolded herself,that wasn't a very nice thing to say,but it was true.

She brought a cool washcloth with her,and climbed back on the bed next to Mark.She knelt next to him,and looked at his naked form.With the washcloth,she wiped the sweat from his face.His eyes fluttered open. "Go back to sleep,"she whispered,"Its early". "Are you alright?". "I'm fine,never better". She smiled down at him. The longer she looked at him,the more she wanted him again.The pain forgotten,the incredible way he made her feel,still fresh in her mind. "Are you really tired?",she asked,as she ran her fingers over his chest,and down his belly. to just above the soft red curls surrounding his maleness. He smiled,as he gently brushed his thumb over her nipple,"What did you have in mind?". She smiled back at him,kissed his cheek,and started exploring his body.

Glen and Marissa lay awake,she had been crying. "I'm sorry,I should have explained the situation sooner,but I didn't plan on meeting you". He tightened his hold on her,as fresh tears ran down her cheeks. She knew he was separated from his wife,and divorce hadn't been discussed yet.but he didn't tell her that now there was a chance they would get back together.He talked to her just before coming to Aurora,they would meet in a week to talk things over. "What was I,one last fling before going back to your wife?",she asked him. "No,your the only woman I've been with since we separated,your the only one I wanted to be with,we have a couple more days together,unless you want me to leave." She knew she should make him go,but she couldn't,she wanted him,,,he would be hers for two more days. She knew once he left,he would never come back.

Bryce and Adam lay sleeping in each others arms.They had spent the day getting to know each other.Both physically and emotionally. Adam said he was in love with Bryce,and Bryce told him the same. They had both been through bad relationships,,but now they had each other.Though it had been only a short time since they met,they knew in their hearts they belonged together. Adam wanted her to leave with him,But Bryce knew she had things to settle here first. So they agreed Aurora would be homebase for awhile. When she woke the next morning,she looked into the face of the man she would spend the rest of her life with.

When Mark woke up,he had his arms tightly wrapped around Annie.He felt good,better than he had in along time,he was happy. Annie stirred beside him,she opened her eyes to see him watching her.When he smiled at her,she couldn't help but smile back. She snuggled closer to him,and kissed him. He rolled her on to her back,and looked in to the blue eyes he loved more each day. Uncertain if he should tel her how he felt.he wanted her to love him,it would break his heart if she didn't feel the same. Annie was watching him,he had a sad look in his lovely green eyes. "What are you thinking about?",she asked as she touched his cheek. He kissed her."Annie,,,,,,I love you".

Annie's eyes filled with tears,she had never in her life heard those words. "But you don't have too,just because of what we did,you don't have too!" She covered her face with her hands,and began to sob.She remembered the fun they had yesterday,how he made her feel last night.She heard her mother saying,"You don't deserve to be loved."

"I don't deserve to be loved." she whispered. It was Mark's turn to be stunned.He couldn't believe what she just said.He held her till she quieted,then took her hands from her face and wiped away her tears. "I don't love you because I have too,Annie,I love you because I want too.And if anyone deserves to be loved,its you!". "I swear if your mother weren't already dead I'd kill her myself!." This statement struck Annie as funny,she started to giggle through her tears.

"What?." "I thought the same thing last night,if she wasn't already dead,she would be when she found out somebody does ,,,,,",she couldn't finish the words. "Loves you Annie,you can say it,someone loves you,I love you,and I hope to God you love me, I would consider myself the luckiest man alive,if you loved me." Annie started crying again,When she regained control,she said"If I cry anymore,I swear I'm going to dehydrate!" Mark kissed her,softly on the lips,"Don't cry anymore,Annie," he whispered. "Do you remember the first time you said that?". He nodded his head."In the back of the limousine,after I so gracefully fell on you". They both laughed,it was an odd way for two people to meet. He took her face in his hands,"I love you", he said again,then kissed her,And made love to her.

Marissa and Glen were finishing breakfast.They discussed what might happen with his wife.He suggested they keep seeing each other,being on the road it would be easy,he told her. Marissa decided she wouldn't do that. There were too many ways she could find out, someone could tell her,and what if she decided to just show up some day? No,Marissa thought She didn't want to be just his mistress.She would rather not have him at all. Glen felt like he was being torn in two directions.He was falling in love with Marissa,but felt he owed it to his wife to try to work things out.Marissa was right,it would be risky to have her on the road with him. They decided they needed to get out,so they thought they would go to Annie's and see how things were going there.

Bryce and Adam had everything worked out.Whenever Bryce could,she would join him wherever he was.When Adam had time off he would be there with Bryce. They would be married whenever Adam had vacation time.It wouldn't be anything fancy.Thy wanted more time for the honeymoon. After getting themselves ready for the day,they headed to Annie's house.To tell everyone the news.

Both couples arrived at about the same time.Adam rang the bell,but got no answer. "Maybe they went out some where." "I don't think so",Bryce said.She looked at Marissa and gave her a knowing smile. Adam rang the bell again,still no response. "Maybe their busy," Glen added,with a sly smile. Then they heard Mark bellow,"Hold on,I'm coming!".

"I bet he's coming", Adam said.He and Glen started laughing.Bryce gave Adam a poke in the ribs,but the girls started to giggle too. Mark and Annie were still in bed,enjoying each other,when the bell rang. "Damn,who the hell is that!". Annie watched as Mark fumbled with his pants, she started to giggle."You want to go answer the door?," Mark asked,getting more than a little flustered,trying to get dressed in a hurry. Annie could only shake her head,as the door bell rang again."Dammit!",he said,Annie buried her face in the pillow to muffle her laughs. "I'm take care of you later,nobody laughs at The Undertaker and gets away with it!" Annie laughed harder,Mark gave her a playful slap on the butt,saying,"You better get dressed,,,,Dammit!,"he said as the bell rang again.

Mark reached the door and yanked it open,when he saw who it was,all he said was, "What?". As he stood there bare foot and shirtless. "Aren't we cheery this morning," Glen said. "We were!", he said. Marissa said,"We thought we would come over and see how things were going". "Come on in,things WERE going really well," he said with a smile.

Everyone came in and sat down,Mark asked if they wanted anything. "We want to know how Annie is," Marissa said. "I'm fine," Annie said as she entered the room. She stood next to Mark,and he promptly draped his arm over her shoulders.She in turn put her arm around his waist.She looked up at him,he bent and kissed her,as he did this,his hand brushed against her breast,"Forget something?." he asked.

They drove to a secluded spot the Bryce and Marissa had shown Annie once before. Annie loved the quietness and beauty. The girls went for a walk,while the guys set up the picnic lunch. Bryce and Annie had noticed that Marissa was kind of quiet and withdrawn.When they asked what was wrong,she told them about Glen's situation with his wife,and how he asked her to join him on the road. Bryce was a little hesitant t tell them her news,feeling bad for Marissa. But,Marissa being who she was wanted to know how they both spend their days. Bryce told them about the plans her and Adam made,she looked so happy,Annie and Marissa wished her luck,then they both gave her a hug.Marissa teased her about giving Adam a hug an a kiss to congratulate him.

They both looked at Annie."We want to know all the details," Bryce said. "It was a wonderful day,he makes me feel good,he keeps telling me I'm beautiful." Okay,get to the good parts." Marissa said. Annie smiled as she remembered the day.she told Bryce and Marissa most of what happened. Some things would belong only to her and Mark.They congratulated her,and wanted to know how she made it through the first night without something happening. Annie didn't really understand why they would congratulate her.She did tell them that she had a hard time sleeping the first night he was there.

"Damn,Glen,what are you doing here if your thinking about going back?",Mark asked. "I like Marissa,I think I'm falling in love with her". "Gee,Glen whats the wife going to think about that!"Mark shook his head."Thinking with the wrong one again,right?". "I could use a little help here,I don't need to be lectured,I know it was wrong,And she asked for the separation,not me.And if she decides she wants a divorce,she can have it". "What if she doesn't?",Mark asked his friend,knowing exactly what he was going through. "I don't know,I don't think I could be happy with her anymore." "Because of Marissa?". "Partly,but I'm not the only one who had an affair". Mark was stunned,he hadn't heard this before. "I'm sorry,I didn't know,but you have to make sure Marissa isn't just payback". "I'm very sure she isn't," Glen said.

Adam busied himself getting things ready,he didn't feel he should be in on the conversation. The girls were just getting back from their walk. Glen went to Marissa and put his arms around her,she hesitated,then returned his hug. Marissa closed her eyes against the tears. Adam held Bryce's hand as she sat down to eat,he then sat next to her,and snuggled close to her. Mark took Annie in his arms,"I missed you". "I wasn't gone that long",Annie said. "I still missed you,and I still love you,and i want to keep you!". He bent and kissed her till she got weak in the knees."Lets eat so we can go home," Annie whispered to him.

When they finished their lunch,Glen and Marissa went for a walk,Annie watched them leave,and hoped everything would work out for them. Bryce told Adam there was a little spot she wanted to show him,"just a little over that way" ,she said.She winked at him,and he got up and followed her. Mark sat leaning against a tree,Annie came to him and sat between his long legs and leaned back against his chest.She closed her eyes and enjoyed the feeling of being so close to him.She took his hand and kissed his fingers. The events of the last twenty-four hours still fresh in her mind.She felt a shiver go through her body.She also remembered the words he said to her this morning,"I love you,Annie".She wasn't sure she knew how to love him back.

He watched her move as she came to him.He put his hands on her hips,as she sat down,to keep her from falling.He loved the way he lips felt on his fingers.He kissed the top of her head,taking in her scent.He wondered if she would love him.She was just starting a new life.was it fair of him to not want her with anyone else? He felt her shiver,he wrapped his arms around her,,"Are you cold?". Annie shook her head no.He felt the stirrings of desire,as she ran her hand up and down his thigh.It made him wonder if it was just a physical attraction,no he thought its much more than that,"I love you,Annie",he whispered,to her and kissed her head again.

Tears formed in Annie's eyes,she wasn't sure she knew how to love him back.She hoped that she could. Glen and Marissa were just getting back. Annie noticed Marissa straightening her clothes as Glen picked some grass out of her hair.She turned her head up to look at Mark and said,"Outside??". "Yep,outside,we'll have to try that sometime". Annie nodded her head,"Wow,,,we should have gone for a walk",she said,and smiled up at him. He chuckled,then pressed his lips to hers,

When he broke the kiss,they saw Bryce and Adam returning.They too,looked a little dishevelled "We aren't interrupting anything are we?',Glen asked Mark. "Nope,not this time". He stood and helped Annie to her feet,pulled her to him and kissed her again. Marissa suggested they pack up and head home.The car was packed in no time,and they were on their way.Mark and Annie were dropped off first. When they got inside,Mark said he would put the leftovers away.He suggested Annie take a shower,then he would,when she was finished. Annie headed upstairs,Mark watched her,a smile crossed his lips,he quickly put the food away,and headed up the stairs after Annie.

When he reached the top of the stairs,he could hear the water running,he made it upstairs in time. He started undressing as he entered the bedroom,by the time he reached the bathroom,he was naked. Annie felt a cool breeze when he opened the door,and peeked around the curtain,her eyes widened when she saw him there."Time for another lesson", he said with a smile. Annie smiled,and held the curtain open,he stepped in. He looked twice as big in the small shower,the water hitting his chest.Annie watched as it ran down his body,as he did the same.

He took the soap and started to wash her,he pulled her close while he did her back.She put her arms around him and rested her head on his chest.He ran his soapy hands,down her back and over her backside,Bringing his fingers back up the center.Then he turned her around,her back against his belly.he soaped his hands again,and started at her shoulders,Down her arms and back to her shoulders.His big hands went down her sides,and to her belly.Then up till he cupped each breast in his hands,He massaged each one,brushing lightly over each nipple,feeling them harden.She moaned softly. His hands started moving down,till they reached her thighs.Every nerve in her body came alive at his touch.His hand found the center of her passion,She reach around and felt his own excitement growing.She turned to face him,and washed him as he had her.

When the water started to run cold,they stepped out,and dried each. He led her to the bed,He took her face in his hands,"I love you,,,,,,",and then kissed her,pushing his tongue into her mouth,she ran her tongue over his.Mark buried his face in the hollow of her neck.Annie started kissing down his body,taking each pale nipple in her mouth. She worked her way down,he moaned when she took him in her mouth.Before he reached his peak,he pulled her back up,laid her on the bed,he lay next to her. Annie pushed him on to his back,and straddled his hips,"You learn fast",he said. "You're a good teacher".

"I love you.......",he said again,his words nothing more than a whisper.Annie didn't know how to answer him,she rested her body on his,and buried her face in the hollow of his neck. How could she explain to him that every time he said I love you,,,she heard her mother's voice telling her nobody would truly love her.It would be only for her money,she wasn't pretty enough,her mother's voice told her.Though her heart told her Mark did truly love her,it seemed like her mother stepped out of the grave and stood between her and any happiness she might find with Mark,or any man. She started to sob.

Glen and Marissa lay awake.They decided Glen would leave a day early.He would go home to his wife and see how things were,before going back on the road.Marissa knew there was a real possibility Glen wouldn't be back.She was happy for the time they had,but in a way wished it never happened.She knew the pain of lost relationships,and didn't want feel that again,but it was already too late,the thought of Glen going back to his wife, hurt her deeply.She ran her hand over his bare chest. Glen pulled Marissa closer,and held her tightly,not wanting to let go.He felt like he was being pulled in two directions.He knew he loved Marissa,the thought of hurting her was eating him up.His own emotions in turmoil. Did he still love his wife? Could he forgive what she had done? Yes,he could,but he couldn't forget.Whenever he left,he would wonder what she was doing,and who she was with.he felt,no matter what,he had to see her,and talk to her one more time,at least.

Bryce and Adam had everything planned out.Bryce would be going with him when he left. She would quit her job the next day,and have Annie and Marissa check her apartment evert so often.Bryce was happy,she couldn't believe this was happening so fast,Adam had swept her off her feet,She could no longer imagine life without him. Adam was thrilled when she agreed to leave with him.He was sure he loved her,she was different than the other girls he met on the road.To Bryce he was just Adam,,,,not Edge,no one special.And she loved him,that made him feel honored,that some one as special as she,loved him.

Mark listened as Annie sobbed,trying not to let him hear her.He wondered if he moved to fast with her.He was her first lover,After enduring the oppression of her mother,did he have a right to want her for himself.Since the divorce,he was convinced there would be no more serious relationships.One night stands satisfied his need,but left him feeling more lonely than before.Then Annie came along, The night,and the way they met,replayed in his mind,he felt so bad about what happened,but she was so forgiving,even blaming herself. He shifted onto his side,he pulled her close to his chest,and kissed her forehead."Tell me what's wrong Annie". She loved how he said her name,she took some deep breathes to calm herself.She knew she had to tell him what she was thinking,it was the only way to know for sure. "Mother told me the only reason anyone would love me is for my money,it was the only thing they would be attracted too."

As soon as she said"mother",he felt the anger rise in him.He kept it in control,then said, "Annie you work at a hotel,how much money could you have". "Marissa didn't tell you?".He shook his head,so she told him. He raised his eyebrows,all he could say was "Wow!" "I don't want you to love me for my money". He started to chuckle,Annie was puzzled at his reaction.She loved the way he smiled. He sat up and pulled her up with him,he took her face in his hands,his forearms resting against her breasts. "Annie,,,,I don't need your money,I'm pretty much set when it comes to that,coarse is not as much as you have,but I don't need your money," he said to her,he kissed her,"All I want is for you to love me".

Annie wrapped her arms round Mark's neck. "Don't ever doubt my love for you,just you,not for money.I love you because of who you are". Annie looked in his eyes,she loved that shade of green,seeing only love in them.She kissed him. Annie didn't say those words to him,but he knew she would,in time. They lay back on the bed,their naked bodies pressing against each other,and slept.

Would it do any good to go back and try to work things out? They had alot of differences.She wanted him to quit wrestling,so he was home more,not on the road.She didn't trust him,she accused him more than once of having other women when he was gone.When in fact,since their marriage,the only other woman,was Marissa. He came home early because of a minor injury.When he walked in the house they were right by the door,in each others arms.They tried to act casual about it,telling Glen he was having personal problems,and she'd been kind enough to listen.Glen just stared at her.The more he stared,the more nervous she became,her "friend" left."Who's that?,he asked .She explained that he just bought the house next door,and he was just divorced."Isn't that convenient",Glen said.

That's when she got angry and told him everything,saying it was his own fault because he wasn't there enough to satisfy her needs. The hurt and the anger welled up inside him,he walked past her and went upstairs,undressed and stepped into the shower,and cried. That was two months ago,three weeks ago he met Marissa. Marissa watched him as he moved around the room gathering his things.He had told her the whole story.She knew he felt guilty,he started to believe that maybe it was his fault.That was his reason for going back.He felt he had to at least try one more time. "But if you don't give up wrestling,how will it be different?", Marissa had asked him.He had no answer.

Bryce and Adam agreed to take Glen to the airport.Marissa wouldn't be going.They would meet at Annie's for lunch,then leave from there.Glen and Marissa arrived first.Mark could see the tension in his friends face.He didn't understand Glen's need to go back.He took Glen outside so they could talk Marissa helped Annie set the table,Marissa was quiet as they worked.Annie knew she was hurt,But didn't really know what to do for her. Mark and Adam tried to make light conversation,but to no availe.Bryce was not her usually bubbly self,she felt so bad for Marissa. Then it was time to leave.Glen told Mark he would see him in a few days.Then he went to Annie and hugged her,he looked down and smiled,kissed her cheek,and whispered,"Take good care of her".Annie kissed him back,and softly said,"I will". Bryce and Adam waited in the car,Glen and Marissa walked out arm in arm.They held each other and kissed,neither one wanting to let go. Bryce, as gently as possible,said they had to go or they would be late. Glen kissed Marissa one more time,Then quickly got in the car,and told Adam to,"Go,,now!". Annie and Mark slowly made their way to the car.reaching it just as Glen got in,and Adam drove away.Mark put his arm around Marissa's waist just as her knees buckled.He held her close to him to support her.She buried her face in his chest,and cried. Annie stood near by.Not knowing what to do,she looked at Mark.He put his hand out to her and she went to him.He knew she was at a loss,as to how to help her friend. Annie wouldn't allow herself to cry,she at least knew she had to be strong for Marissa. Annie put an arm around her,and softly said,"Let's go back inside".

Glen looked out the back window of the car,he saw Mark put his arm around Marissa as if she were about to fall.He saw Mark look toward the car,Glen watched,until he could no longer see them.He then leaned forward with his head in his hands. Bryce and Adam exchanged looks,Adam smiled,he knew Bryce was upset,he put his hand on her thigh to sooth her.Bryce put her hand on his,and gave it a squeeze,She was glad he had talked her into going with him,,,she didn't want to have to say good-bye.

Annie and Mark got Marissa back in the house.Mark suggested she go upstairs and lie down for a while.Annie walked up with her,They sat on the bed,Marissa was calming a little. "I hate what he's doing to you Marissa,If he had one ounce of brains in his head,he'd have his ass back here tomorrow!". For Annie,this was a forceful statement,Marissa was surprised,but no more than Annie was.They looked at each other and started to giggle,but Marissa's giggle turned to tears.She leaned onto Annie.Annie hugged her hoping that would help,then said she would leave her alone,but she was right downstairs if Marissa needed her. When Annie got back downstairs,Mark was on the couch.Annie went and sat next to him,he put an arm around her shoulder,and pulled her close.Annie cuddled into him,putting her arms around his waist. "Mark,,,,,whats going to happen when you leave?". "You could come with me",he said. "I could,but then Marissa would be alone,she needs a friend right now,,,,but I would love to go with you,I want to go with you,I don't know what to do". Her voice broke. "Its okay,,I'm being selfish,,I want you with me all the time.But your right,Marissa needs someone,especially with Bryce leaving too. Besides I'll call you everyday,and any time off will be spent here,,,,,with you.". By late afternoon Bryce and Adam returned.Bryce handed Marissa an envelope,and said Glen told her to give it to Marissa.Everyone decided to spend the evening at their respective homes,relaxing.Annie told Marissa she was welcome to stay there,but she refused saying she needed time alone.

Annie was fixing dinner as Mark snoozed on the couch.As Annie worked,tears would fill her eyes at the thought of Mark leaving.She tried to put it out of her mind.When everything was ready,She went to wake him. She stood looking at his sleeping face,and thought back to everything that had happened in the last few days,she was still amaze that he was in love with her,he deserved better. She reached down and pulled his t-shirt out of the waistband of his jeans,and slid her hand underneath.She lightly ran her hand caressed his belly,one finger under the waistband.. He slowly opened his eyes. "Dinner is ready". He looked up at her.As she gazed back at him,tears filled her eyes and dripped on to his shirt,"Mark,,,,I love you".He reached up,took hold of both of her arms and pulled her over the back of the couch so she was on top of him. "You love me,,I have everything I need right here,"he said.He held her to him,as tears filled his own eyes,she wiped them away,"Dinner is going to get cold". "I don't care,you love me,"he kissed her long and hard,passions started to flare. She started to move her thigh,which was resting on his crotch,she rubbed softly.Mark took a deep breath,"If you keep doing that,dinner will get cold". She smiled at him,,,,,dinner got cold.

When Marissa got home,she set the envelope on a table.She wasn't sure she wanted to open it.She busied her self around the house,trying not to think of what might be in the envelope.She was sure it was Glen's way of telling her it was over between them,he had decided to stay with his wife.For hours she wondered. She would look at it,pick it up and start to open i,then put it down again.Bryce called during this time,trying not to pry,but anxious to hear what was in the envelope.Marissa told her she was afraid of what it might say. "But its something he wanted you to know", Bryce said,"You have to know whats going on,you have to prepare yourself for whatever happens". Marissa agreed,she said she would read it and call Bryce back. She went to the table,and sat down.She picked up the envelope,opened it and took out the letter. As she read,a smile crossed her lips,Glen had decided,,,He would ask,,,,no tell his wife he wanted a divorce.But he didn't want Marissa to get involved,so they would have to be very discrete for awhile.When he felt it was safe he would go to see her,or send her a plane ticket to come to a show.When the divorce was final,if she would have him they would be married. She then called Bryce and told her the news.

Bryce and Adam were were on the couch cuddled close to each other.Bryce wouldn't relax till she heard from Marissa. They discussed their own plans for the future.Bryce would travel with him as much as possible,and married as soon as time allowed. Aurora would be their home.The next time they were home,they would start looking for a house. And maybe,in a year or two start a family. Adam had some doubts about the relationship in the beginning,but not any more.Bryce was the woman he had been looking for,she made him happy as no one else ever had.She was what he had been looking for. The phone rang,Bryce answered it,it was Marissa.She read Glen's letter to her,Bryce turned to Adam with tears in her eyes and told him the news.He let out a very loud yell.which made the two girls laugh. Marissa said she wanted to call Annie,so they said their good-byes and hung up.

Annie and Mark finished their warmed over dinner,and were sitting outside in the cool air. Mark would notice a tear roll down Annie's cheek every so often.He didn't say anything,he knew she was trying to hide it.But it brought his own emotions to the brink. What if when he left she changed her mind about him,or found some one else.There was that guy,Keith,in laundry that had his eye on her.He had never in his life felt so insecure about a woman,but this woman was special,,there was no one else that affected him like she did.His life became an open book to her,she knew his faults and excepted them.He couldn't imagine life with out her. The phone rang,bringing them both out of their thoughts.Annie went to answer it.Mark followed. It was Marissa telling her about Glen's letter. Annie was happy for her,Mark said,"Its about time he came to his senses." They talked for a bit,then hung up. Annie looked over at Mark,who was drinking from the milk carton again,she lost any control she had over her emotions and started to cry. He went to her and held her,struggling to keep his self in control.

When she woke,he was already up,she rolled onto his side of the bed,se could still smell the scent he left.She wondered where he was,the shower wasn't on,A slight feeling of panic hit her."No,he wouldn't leave without saying good-bye,even if he doesn't come back",she whispered to herself. Just then the door opened and he came in carrying a tray of food.He had on a frilly bib apron,and his briefs.Annie started to giggle the sight of him.

Mark loved to hear her laugh,he didn't think she had done much laughing as she was growing up.He watched as she ate,if so much as a crumb dropped on her,he made sure he picked it off her t-shirt. "Do you treat all your women this way?". "No,"he answered,"Only the ones I love". Annie looked up at him,"Are you really coming back?". Mark felt a little insecure,not something he felt very often,but what if she didn't want him to come back?. "Only if you want me to". Annie nodded her head,"I want you to".

Mark took the tray and set it on the floor.As he leaned over,Annie caressed his butt,when he righted himself,he pulled Annie close to him. "Did you have that t-shirt on when we when to bed last night?". "No,did you have that apron on?, she asked,giggling again. "Well,I'll just have to take it off".Which he did,"And you don't need this",he grabbed the back of Annie's shirt and pulled it over her head.

He pushed her down on the bed,He kissed her long and hard. They spent the afternoon,in bed,touching,teasing,playing,making love. Mark not wanting to leave her. Annie still afraid if he left,he wouldn't come back. The time passed quickly,before they knew it,it was time for Mark to go. Adam and Bryce said their good-bye to Annie and Marissa,then went to the car to wait for Mark.

Annie and Mark clung to each other,Mark kissed her,tying to reassure her he would be back.Annie tried hard to believe him,but no matter what he said,she still doubted herself,she just didn't think he could really love her enough to come back. Adam beeped the horn.It was time to let go. Until now Annie controlled her tears,but she couldn't any longer,They walked to the car,Mark struggling to stay calm,it tore his heart out to see her hurting so much.

Mark and Glen arrived a week later. When they reached Annie's both the girls were outside waiting for them.Marissa walked to the driveway to meet Glen.Annie stayed on the porch,still a little unsure about what happened with Keith,would Mark be mad a her for letting it happen? A million doubts went through her mind. She watched as he walked to the porch,he was limping again.Tears filled her eyes,she knew he was hurting again.

Mark started up the steps,Annie saw him wince a little,taking the first step. "Your hurt again",she asked in a soft voice. "I'm okay,its just my hip." They looked at each other for a moment.Mark saw the tears in her eyes,"Don't I get a hug?". Her tears spilled down her cheeks,as she nodded her head and went to him.He wrapped her in his arms,and held her tight.He kissed the top of her head,she squeezed tighter. "That's good for starters,now a kiss".She looked up and smiled. He took her face in his hands and kissed her.

Glen and Marissa stood watching,till Glen cleared his throat. Mark looked up and said"What?". "Just thought I would say hello to Annie before we leave",he said with a smile.There were hugs all around,Mark and Annie watched a they left then went inside. "Are you hungry,I could fix something?". He pulled her into his arms,"I'm hungry for you", he told her,he kissed her again,and maneuvered her to the stairs.She guessed he wasn't mad at her.

"Like what you see?". Annie smiled and blushed,"Yes,I do". Mark winked at her,"Come on over,let me look at you". Annie's blush deepened,"I'll just put some liniment on your hip,then you can rest". She went to the bathroom and came back with a towel. "Whats that for?",he asked "Well,this is kind of runny,you should cover your,,,,your,,,,", "My what?".he said with a sly little smile on his face knowing what she meant. "Mark,don't tease me".She threw the towel toward the area to be covered and moved to the other side of the bed.Sometimes she still hear her mothers voice telling her she was stupid.

She felt that way now. She climbed on the bed and started rubbing his hip. He loved the way she blushed,her innocence,even after all they had done together.He felt the heat of the liniment,and quickly grabbed the towel and pressed it to his groin.Annie's gentle rubbing,and the warmth,soon lulled him to sleep. Annie watched him for a minute,then covered him and left the room.

She knew Mark was teasing,and it was nothing to be upset about.But it embarrassed her,she hated that she was so shy,it made her wonder if she was the right person for Mark.He needed a strong woman,not someone like her. About an hour later Mark woke and headed down to the kitchen,he could smell Annie's cooking.Half way there he heard a loud crash.He rushed into the kitchen to see Annie standing over a broken dish and food all over the floor. "What happened?",ha asked as he rushed to see if she was alright. "It was hot,I'm sorry,I clean it up". Her hands were clenched as she went to start cleaning up the mess. Mark grabbed her arm,he could feel her shaking.He gently opened her hands to see bright red burn marks.Annie tried to pull free saying "I have to clean this up".

"Annie,I love you more than i thought it was possible to love anther person.a broken dish or a stolen kiss isn't going to stop that.How do I make you stop doubting yourself and my feelings for you?You make me happy.No matter what,i will always love you." Annie leaned against him,it was what she needed to hear.Now she was sure,"I love you too,Mark".He leaned down and kissed her neck. "Then why don't we go back upstairs,and I'll show you how much I love you,then you can show me how much you love me".

Bryce and Adam were to have a big traditional wedding.Adam's mom kind of insisted on it.But they were enjoying making plans and deciding who would be in the wedding party. Adam chose Christian as his best man, Bryce asked Marissa to be matron of honor, but being seven months pregnant,she and Glen didn't think she should travel.So Bryce asked Annie,at first she was excited,but as the day approached she became nervous,worrying that she would do something to embarrass Bryce and Adam.

Mark assured her that she would do fine. And Christian told her he wold hold onto her tight,so wouldn't fall.This wasn't very comforting,but she thought he was probably joking. The wedding was beautiful,everything went as planned.Annie was proud of herself for not making any mistakes.And under Mark's watchful eye,she even danced with Christian. But only once.Mark kept her to his self the rest of the day. Bryce and Adam,as a gift from the Mcmahons honeymooned in the Bahamas.

Mark had finally convinced Annie to quit her job.She started traveling with him.She love seeing all the places,she had just heard about. Where ever they went,Annie would buy a little trinket,Mark thought this was silly,but didn't stop her. Annie loved watching Mark wrestle,but she knew with every show his pain got worse. During one of The Undertaker's more dramatic entrances,she was one of the Druids that proceeded him. Annie was happy,she wondered,sometimes,how long it would last.She didn't want it to end,but she had prepared herself if it did,though she never mentioned this to Mark.She would stand with him as he signed autographs,she marvelled at how so many people,especially women,adored him.

On one particular evening,as he was signing,Annie stood next to him,greeting some of the fans.One had even asked for her autograph.On this night,a woman that Annie had seen at other show, came and stood in front of her.She "accidentally " pushed Annie away from Mark.Annie watched as she snuggled up close to Mark,"Why don't you get rid of that little mouse",she said,"You need a real woman".As she ran a hand over his backside. Annie's eyes filled with tears,she turned and ran back into the arena.

Mark got angry when he saw Annie running away,he looked at the woman hanging on him,if she was a man he would have decked her. Trying to keep his temper in check,he told her, "I can't stop you from coming to the shows,but if you ever approach me,or my fiancee again, I'll have you arrested for harassment". With a slight smile on his face,he left to find Annie.The woman stomped off in the opposite direction.

Mark found her back in his dressing room. She sat with her head in her hands,crying softly.When she heard Mark come in,she refused to look at him,but said"Maybe she's right". Already angry,Mark grew angrier,tears filled his eyes.He stepped in front of Annie,grabbed her arms,and brought her to a standing position.Annie still avoided looking at him. "Look at me,Annie",he said through clenched teeth,he gave her a mild shake and repeated his words. She looked up at him,tears spilled down his cheeks,she had never seen him cry before.

"Don't ever let someone like that intimidate you again.Your the woman I love,only you,I want you with me forever,do you understand me?". Annie couldn't answer through her tears. "Do you understand me",he repeated. "Yes,,,,,Yes!",she whispered,as she reached up to catch his tear,then wrapped her arms around him.They stood and held each other for a moment.

They told everyone what was going to happen. Grayce was inconsolable, she spent every moment she could with her mother. As did Mark. They keep their lives normal for as long as it was possible. But soon... Annie was bed-ridden. A nurse would come in every day, but Mark did everything for her, and never complained. But it took its toll on him, Marissa and Bryce convinced him to take Grayce and get away for a few hours.