Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.
Disclaimer: The flowers I used may be out of season or not available for immediate purchase from a florist. Please over look this and love the gesture by John. Smile. Thank you.
John walked into Llanview's florist. His eyes scanned the shop at the same time the floral designer yelled from the back saying she would be with him in a moment. He decided to take the opportunity to look around. He noticed several arrangements on the counter and thought they were pretty, but he wasn't drawn to them. His eyes went to the glass refrigerators were other arrangements were, and he thought they were pretty too. He wasn't sure what he wanted, but he knew he wanted something special.
He wanted an arrangement that would confirm his need to be more than just a friend to Evangeline. When they were last together, he told her he couldn¡¦t handle just being her friend. He declared he wanted the strings and rings. She had boldly told him to prove it, and he meant to.
He fingered the note cards and read them silently to himself. He glanced in the direction the voice came from earlier and wondered what was taking so long. He didn't have all day.
Shoving his hands in his pockets, he looked back at the note cards and noticed a magazine on the counter.
Floral Monthly. He mocked until a heading on the front caught his attention. The meaning of flowers.¡¨
John looked around to make sure he was still alone then picked up the magazine and turned to the page indicated on the front. Hmm. He thought as he read that the arbutus flower meant Thee only do I love¡¨. He scanned the list and started formulating an idea as he learned about the different meaning of flowers. CAMELLIA, WHITE: You're adorable. CARNATION, PINK: I'll never forget you. LILY, ORANGE: I burn for you. ROSE, RED: Love, passion, respect, courage, I love you, beauty, pure and lovely, prosperity.
Sorry, I took so long.¨ A short Hispanic woman walked into the room swiping her hands on her apron. I'm here by myself while my husband and son are out making deliveries, and I just received a big shipment of flowers.¨
John was so deep in thought. He didn't notice when she entered and spoke.
Excuse me sir.¨ She tried again in her deep accent.
Oh, sorry¡¨ John bashfully placed the magazine back on the counter.
How can I help you¨ The lady asked as she glanced at the magazine and smiled politely.
I want to order some flowers¨ John stated reaching for his wallet.
For the lady you are in love with.¨ She offered him a knowing smile.
John snapped his head up and looked at her puzzled. How did she know?
Anyone can look at you and tell you are in love, senor.¨ She laughed and stepped over to the register. Their eyes locked, and she knew this was going to be a big sell.
John offered her one of his signature goofy smiles as she offered him a wider smile. She grabbed her ordering pad and asked what kind of flowers he wanted. His glaze went to the floral magazine on the counter, and he pulled out his credit card. I think I will need my platinum card for this one.¨
Evangeline¡¦s office ¡V Several days later
Todd, will you please go and let me get back to work.¡¨ Evangeline insisted as he followed her into the front office of her practice. She took the messages her receptionist handed to her and didn¡¦t notice the ear-to-ear grin the young lady was sporting. ¡§Amy, could you please reschedule my appointment with Mr. Morris?¡¨
I will call him now.¡¨ Amy informed as she picked up the phone and focused on her task. ¡§And, Layla called and confirmed your dinner tonight with her at the Palace at seven.¡¨
Thanks Amy.¡¨ Evangeline turned to Todd who had become her shadow in the last few days.
Glancing through her messages, she smiled inside at her best male friend. She remembered once that she told him he was a rotten friend, but Todd Manning had come along way in stepping up in that department. Even though his style was overbearing, his behavior obsessive, and his advice verbally insulted two men she really cared about, his heart was in the right place. He wanted to be there for her¡Kliterally. But, today, she had to put a stop to it. Several straight days of Todd Manning was enough. She loved him dearly. He was helping keep her mind off John, but it was time for him to get back to his own job. For heavens sake, he was the publisher of the Sun one of Llanview¡¦s popular newspapers. She was sure he had something he could be doing other than babysitting her. And, she really had a lot of work to do. She couldn¡¦t play hooky with him anymore.
Todd, I really appreciate your persistence of being here for me, but I need to get some work done. I have two briefs I need to take care of, a few cases going to court soon, and I promised Layla I would look over a contract for her. So, I really, really need to get to work.¡¨
I'll help you¡ I'll read over Layla's contract for you.¡¨ Todd equipped as Evangeline pushed some hair behind her ear offering him an apologetic smile after his statement. When her receptionist snickered at him, he cut his eyes at her before turning his attention back to his best friend.
Todd, that is really sweet.¡¨ Evangeline controlled her own desire to laugh because she knew he was serious. It was sweet, and the side of him he only let a few people see. His offer was genuine and uncharacteristically of Todd Manning, which made it charming.
Well, if you won¡¦t let me look over the contract for you.¡¨ He interjected seeing a refusal of his offer on her face. ¡§I can do something else. I¡¦ve been in so much trouble with the law I¡¦m sure I can be of some help¡KYou know that. You handled all my brushes since you came to town¡Khow long has that been. Three, six¡Knine years.¡¨ He sported his signature confident smile that told her he wouldn¡¦t take no for an answer.
Yeah, you¡¦re her number one criminal client.¡¨ Amy ribbed writing something in a folder. ¡§That is why we make sure your birthday and Christmas cards are always original¡Kand, she has only had the practice here in Llanview for four years.¡¨
Don¡¦t you have some filing or something to do Ms. Kitty?¡¨ Todd said with sarcasm not liking either one of her comments. ¡§Take the rest of the day off.¡¨
Evangeline knew when Manning resulted to name calling and requesting people leave his presence it was time to isolate him from any other humanity. Okay, Todd, in my office¡KThanks Amy, and you can call it a day. Just send the phone to voice mail, and I will be fine.¡¨
Thank you Evangeline.¡¨ Amy said as she returned her boss¡¦s friend glaring stare for a second then started to straighten up her desk. Todd continued to glare for a few more seconds as Evangeline walked into her office. ¡§I¡¦ll see you tomorrow¡Khopefully alone.¡¨
Evangeline, why do you keep her?¡¨ Todd stated loud enough to be heard as he finally followed Evangeline into master office. ¡§My daughter, Starr could do a better job than her.¡¨
Todd enough is enough.¡¨ Evangeline¡¦s disapproving tone grabbed his attention.
Todd froze when he noticed the floral arrangements all around the room. ¡§I didn¡¦t do this.¡¨ He confessed wishing he had reading the confusion in her eyes and on her face. He wasn¡¦t sure what she was feeling now knowing he wasn¡¦t behind this. He couldn¡¦t believe his eyes as they started at the door and examined the rest of the room. There were numerous different kinds of flowers in quantities of a dozen invading her office. He watched as she strolled over and retrieved more than a few of the cards from them and read them.
Evangeline stared at the one arrangement of beautiful light pink roses in a rectangle glass vase. Her face was expressionless when she noticed the card without an envelope. She immediately recognized John¡¦s bold handwriting. The card simply read: Please Believe Me. Her eyes went to the next dozen of flowers, which was an identical arrangement. The card read: Perfect Happiness. Looking at the bouquet behind it, she noticed a dozen peach color roses in a vase with another note. Note: Desire.
Evangeline was spellbound as she pulled note cards from several flowers each in the quantity of a dozen. She observed the arrangements as she mindfully noted this was the first contact John has made with her since Saturday. Her attention went back to the flowers, and she realized the ones that were duplicated either had a card with a different meaning from the other same set or were without a card. Moss Rose (Confession of love), Arbutus (Thee only do I love), Astilbe (I'll still be waiting), White Chrysanthemum (Truth), Gardenia (You¡¦re lovely), Iris (Your friendship means so much to me), Orange Lily (I burn for you), Yellow Lily (I¡¦m walking on air), Forget-me-not (True Love), Gardenia (You¡¦re lovely), Purple Hyacinth (I am sorry), Yellow Iris (Passion).
Todd was doing his own exploration. Jonquil (Love me), White Lily (It¡¦s heavenly to be with you), Peach Rose (Admiration), White Chrysanthemum (Loyal love), Balsam (Ardent love), Red Camellia (You¡¦re a flame in my heart).
I was thinking your little Mexican was the idiot behind your miniature florist since he now have a few dineros after his big title fight. But, I see Chrysanthemum is spelled correct.¡¨ Todd ignored her glare as he held up the card from the flower for evidence. ¡§So, that means your comfortable living robot cop.¡¨ He surveyed the room again. ¡§He must have broken open his penny bank and took out a loan.¡¨
Todd, for the last time Cristian is¡K¡¨ She started only to have him join in unison as she finished. ¡§Puerto Rican.¡¨
Evangeline rolled her eyes as her friend smiled at her frustration with him.
I wonder where the courage-less toxic rental cop got this idea.¡¨ Todd questioned seeing her soften again as she looked at the flowers. ¡§We both know he don¡¦t have an original idea in that one track mind of his.¡¨
Todd please.¡¨ Evangeline moved to her desk and finally noticed five single flowers and a letter. For some reason, she knew those five single flowers: Fuschia, Light Pink Rose, Red Rose, Prim Rose, and Red Camellia would mean more to her than the other bundled ones.
Evangeline, please tell me you¡¦re not falling for this.¡¨ Todd questioned as he watched her pick up the letter and slowly opened it. ¡§McBain is never going to change. He¡¦s not worthy of being in the same city as you.¡¨
Todd, I¡¦m not about to talk about John with you.¡¨ She glanced at him then turned her complete attention to the letter after saying, ¡§You can¡¦t be objective about the topic.¡¨
I can be objective about any topic.¡¨ Todd lied as he wondered what John wrote in the letter.
Evangeline,
You once told me that I don¡¦t say things I don¡¦t mean. I know
you still believe I haven¡¦t changed, but I have. I¡¦m nothing with-
out you, and I don¡¦t have a problem verbalizing the fact. You once
told me to prove that you are all I have ever wanted. I¡¦m not sure
how to go about doing it, but I know I will spend the rest of my
life trying to figure it out until I get it right. I¡¦m not giving up on
us Evangeline. I told you once we were worth fighting for, and I
still believe we are.
I¡¦m not one to admit when I¡¦m wrong, but I was more than a fool
to let you get away. You¡¦re the best thing that has ever happened
in my life. I¡¦ve never had a woman who made me feel and think
the way you do. When I¡¦m with you, I¡¦m whole.
Todd watched as Evangeline walked over to her desk and sat down. He observed the expression on her face and wondered what was going on in that gorgeous mind of hers. He recalled a conversation he had with her once when she said she wanted success in her career, a family, and a soulmate. Even though she was in a relationship with Cristian Vega, she didn¡¦t claim to have the soulmate part. He watched as a tear rolled down her right cheek. Just as Blair was his soulmate, he knew John McBain was hers. He rolled his eyes at the thought of her giving McBain a second chance, but he knew she would. He saw it in her body language and expression. What was in that damn letter? He thought again and moved towards her desk.
I¡¦m sure three hundred sixty-five flowers in your office is overkill,
but I need for you to understand. I¡¦m committing all of me to you. Everything I have inside of me. I will show and tell you how I feel.
That¡¦s the reason for the flowers. I was originally only going to get
you a dozen roses. I saw a floral magazine that talked about flowers and their meanings, and I realized you deserved more than a dozen. You deserve any and everything that confirms how beautiful you are inside and out. I want a second chance to show you how beautiful you are to me and how much I love you. I will not rest until I can look into your eyes and see the reflection of my love in them.
Evangeline, I want you to trust me with your heart. I want you to
believe in us. I am ready to be the man in your life. I want to be
the man you wake up in the morning to start your day with, and the
man that makes you forget the rest of the world at night. I know in
my heart that you love me. I feel it when you touch me. I see it in
the way you look at me. Now, I need you to look at me and look into
my heart and trust in the love you see that I have for you.
Evangeline, you are my destiny. You are in my heart and every part
of my being. Now, I will explain the five flowers on your desk. The
prima rose is because I can¡¦t live without you. The red camellia is
because you¡¦re a flame in my heart. One that was ignited the
first day I met you in Angel Square as Agent McBain.
Evangeline smiled and wiped a tear off her cheek as she remembered him that day. He inquired about her martial status in an indirect way. His low husky voice played back in her mind as she remembered him saying Ms¡KWilliamson. She was a little intrigued by his pausing and waiting for direction technique. She didn¡¦t have a problem with him knowing it was Ms. In fact, she wanted him to know.
The fushica is for taste, and I¡¦ll explain that one in person.¡¨ Todd read out loud. ¡§I always knew McBain was a pervert.¡¨
Evangeline who had sat down in her desk chair at some point looked over her shoulder and noticed Todd was reading her letter too.
Todd!¡¨ She scolded moving the letter from his view. ¡§This is a personal letter.¡¨
It looks like pornography more than a love letter.¡¨ He commented stepping away from her not revealing an ounce of remorse for invading her privacy. ¡§It looks like something Blair would enjoy not a wholesome girl like yourself.¡¨
Evangeline shook her head as she finished the letter.
The light pink rose stands for please believe in me. I know I don¡¦t
have a right to ask, but I¡¦m proving to you I don¡¦t want to lose you.
Finally, but not least, the red rose. For every meaning it has because
I know you will never be second or settle for anything less than the
best. So, you have my love, passion, respect, courage, and so much
more.Evangeline, this is not about taking away the pain I caused you in the past. I wish I could but I know I can¡¦t. This is me knowing you are my destiny. I¡¦m ready to take that leap, hon. Actually, I have and I am waiting with open arms for you to join me. I promise to never hide or hold back my love for you ever again.
Love you with everything in me, John
She sniffed and wiped her right cheek again then folded the letter. She allowed her eyes to glance over the floral arrangements before locking eyes with Todd. She wasn¡¦t surprised he was the first to break the silence, but she was shocked by what he said.
Evangeline, you are the type of person who knows what you want.¡¨ Todd stated wondering why she was struggling with her heart. ¡§You told me once you wanted a family and soulmate to spend the rest of your life with.¡¨
He lowered his eyes briefly knowing for her he had to admit the truth. And¡Kif you ever tell anyone I admitted this, I will deny it and post some not so nice stuff about him in the Sun.¡¨ She frowned as she waited for him to continue. ¡§You and I both know John is your soulmate.¡¨
She chewed on her bottom lip as she thought about the letter in her hand, and the scent of the flowers filled her nostrils.
I'm not a fan of the guy, but you are the finest person I know. You¡¦re my best friend, and you know I want the best for you. McBain makes you happy, and I don¡¦t think he¡¦s stupid enough to screw up twice. He changed his priorities for you.¡¨ Todd studied her lovingly as he saw the internal turmoil in her eyes. And, if I'm wrong, well I can have him taken care of with one phone call.¡¨
She smiled shaking her head then buried her face in her palms as she wondered how John managed to get Todd Manning on his side. Evangeline knew Todd loved her and only wanted the best for her. And John loved her and wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. She often wondered how two men with so much love in their heart for her could detested each other so much.
So, what about you and me?¡¨ He asked fiddling with her pencil cup on her desk.
What?¡¨ She snapped her head up and wondered what he was referring to now.
Vega had a problem¡K¡¨ He started and they locked eyes and she knew his full meaning.
John won¡¦t have a problem with our friendship.¡¨ She answered confidently. ¡§He knows when I commit I give 110%.¡¨ She smiled still seeing a little worry on her friend¡¦s expression. ¡§He also knows I won¡¦t let any man pick my friends for me.¡¨
Todd offered her a confident smile, but his smile quickly disappeared when she continued with her thought.
But, I won¡¦t let you goad him either like you did with Cristian.¡¨ She stood realizing she was emotionally and physically tired. More to the point, Todd wasn¡¦t going to let her get any work done anyway. She¡¦ll just take her work home. ¡§Todd, I¡¦m going home.¡¨
Okay. I¡¦ll come¡K¡¨ He started, but she quickly put her hand up.
No. You are going to the Sun.¡¨ She grabbed some folders and placed them in her briefcase. ¡§The penthouse, Llanfair, La Boulet, or anywhere else besides my condo.¡¨
Todd looked a little hurt, and she felt slightly guilty. He was just trying to be a good friend.
Hey.¡¨ She waited until he locked eyes with her again. ¡§You¡¦re getting pretty good at this friend thing.¡¨
I had an excellent role model.¡¨ He grinned and decided to concede and allow her the space she needed. He watched as she walked around to him.
Thanks for everything.¡¨ She kissed him on the cheek and gave him a firm hug. I'll pay for lunch tomorrow.
Sitting on her chaise Evangeline surfed the net on her laptop looking for some information for a case. An hour ago she was IMing her cousin Yvonne and was informed that the newlyweds were expecting her first child. She couldn¡¦t stop her mind from wondering what it would be like to start a family with John. His question haunted her, and she allowed herself to mediate on her feelings of having a child with him. She knew John loved children, and the thought of having his child made her feel even more connected to him. She allowed herself to process the fact that she wanted to have it all with John, but she wasn¡¦t ready to allow it to happen. Her IM noise indicator grabbed her attention letting her know she had a new IM. She glanced at the laptop screen.
JohnnyMac: Surprise SunshineESQ!
Evangeline gasped when she saw the screen name and wondered if it really could be John. But, how did he get her¡KYvonne. She was going to kill her cousin. Now, she was going to have to explain to him why her screen name was sunshine. Her IM indicator went off again.
JohnnyMac: Yvonne gave me your screen name. I hope it¡¦s okay. I was IMing Darius and she said you were online. She also told me to ask you about your screen name.
SunshineESQ: I¡¦m sure she did on all accounts. Okay with you having my screen name. Thanks for the flowers, John. They were beautiful. I was going to call later.
JohnnyMac: You¡¦re more than welcome and worthy. And, they can¡¦t touch your beauty. So?
Evangeline was smiling ear to ear. Wow! The man was definitely holding back on her before. John McBain undeniably had a way with words. Enjoying the feeling of his courtship, she IMed.
SunshineESQ: So, what?
JohnnyMac: I¡¦m curious about the screenname. Is this another secret I'll have to kiss out of you?
SunshineESQ: That only worked because I wanted it too. ļ
Evangeline couldn't believe John was actually indulging in chatting on the computer. She knew he was willing to verbalize himself now, but she didn¡¦t think he would even cover the cyber form. Her Johnny Mac has turned into something really good and wonderful.
JohnnyMac: I'm upstairs and up for the challenge. I just need the word from you.
She didn't reply. She just looked at the screen. He¡¦s giving her everything she want, but she still can¡¦t¡Kwon¡¦t bring herself to give him a second chance. Todd was right. She didn¡¦t believe he would hurt her again, but¡Kshe chewed on the inside of her left cheek as she wondered again what was holding her back.
JohnnyMac: Evangeline, I was teasing. I understand you are only offering me friendship, and I will take that if it means being in your life. I can't live without you.
JohnnyMac: I won't stop showing you the love I have inside for you, and I'm not giving up hope that we will be together in the end.
JohnnyMac: Are you still there?
Evangeline pushed some hair behind her ear, sniffed, and held back her tears, and typed her simple reply.
SunshineESQ: I'm here. I'm surprise you are into IMing.
JohnnyMac: I use it to keep in contact with my grandfather in Ireland. He won't talk on the phone, but he will spend hours on his computer. I find it crazy, but I enjoy communicating with him. He has given me a lot of advice.
JohnnyMac: You owe me an explanation for the screen name Williamson.
She smiled to herself then typed.
SunshineESQ: I'm not telling, but you will find your answer in the movie Harlem Nights, Lieutenant.
JohnnyMac: Harlem Nights?
SunshineESQ: Go rent the movie. My phone is ringing, so I have to go. Talk with you later.
JohnnyMac: Okay. Eight o'clock good for you?
SunshineESQ: I wasn't suggesting we watch it together.
JohnnyMac: I am. I'll bring Chinese and chocolate ice cream.
JohnnyMac: Or you can come over to my place. Chance misses you. I miss you.
JohnnyMac: Evangeline?
SunshineESQ: I'm here.
JohnnyMac: Is eight good?
SunshineESQ: John, I don¡¦t want to hurt you. Honestly, I don't think we should spend a large amount of time together. I don't think either one of us is ready for a lot of personal interaction. I'm not trying to hurt your feelings.
JohnnyMac: What ever it takes?
SunshineESQ: Thanks again for the flowers...and the letter. Thank you for saying what you said in it.
JohnnyMac: Evangeline, I want to give you more than 365 flowers. And, the letter was just a beginning of offering you what is inside of me.
JohnnyMac: Okay. I'm going to rent that movie. May I call or IM you later.
SunshineESQ: I'm okay with that.
JohnnyMac: Bye. Cyber hug and kiss. Love you.
Evangeline stared at the last two words he typed. She placed her laptop at the foot of the chaise and stood. She was deep in thought about John and her feelings when the ringing of her cell phone grabbed her attention.
Rodi¡¦s ¡V two weeks later
Are you and John back together?¡¨ Nora questioned as she took her seat across from her best friend.
Nora, can we at least order before you start cross examining me?¡¨ Evangeline teased as her friend confirmed her suspicion on why she received a lunch invitation today. Nora was on a fact-finding mission. ¡§Besides, you are up to speed on my status with John. We are friends, but we are limiting our interactions to phone calls, emails, and texts.¡¨
Friends? Phone calls? Emails? Texts?¡¨ The local DA queried. ¡§Evangeline, John is not acting like you are just friends. He¡¦s acting like you are sleeping with him again. Bo says the guys at the station are calling him Goofy now.¡¨
Goofy?¡¨ Evangeline wondered as she looked over the menu.
Yeah.¡¨ Nora followed her actions with her own menu. ¡§I don¡¦t know what you are doing to him, but Bo says he walks around with a permanent smile plastered on his face now¡KHe hasn¡¦t barked an order at an officer in about two weeks¡KI saw him yesterday, and he actually seemed happy.¡¨
John McBain happy. That automatically means we¡¦re back together.¡¨ Evangeline giggled at her friend and Llanview Police Department¡¦s deduction.
Everyone knows the only time John was truly happy in his life was when you two were together.¡¨ Nora offered the waitress a polite smile as she walked up. And, I find it hard to believe his up beat mood is because of some emails, texts, and phone calls.¡¨
May I take your order?¡¨ The waitress arrived and interrupted with no apologies.
I'll have a chef salad with a water please.¡¨ Evangeline ordered not really feeling hungry. She watched her friend as she started to open her mouth to order then closed it when they heard the ringing of a cell phone.
Oh, it¡¦s mine.¡¨ Evangeline pushed some hair behind her ear as she checked the LCD screen and decided to let the call go to voicemail.
John?¡¨ Nora questioned as she studied her friend.
Evangeline watched the waitress walk away then looked at Nora.
Okay. I¡¦m curious.¡¨ Nora shifted in her chair to get more comfortable. It's obvious you two are't finish. I know Natalie was a problem.¡¨
Evangeline remained quiet as her friend analyzed her relationship.
But, according to Bo, John has definitely handled and cleared up any doubts where Natalie would be concerned. She is no longer apart of his life in any fashion or form¡¨
Evangeline still remained silent.
So, why aren¡¦t you willing to give him a second chance.¡¨ Nora gestured with her hands. ¡§For heaven sakes, the man went to the ballet and played tennis for you¡KI don¡¦t think John has ever been in a pair of shorts before then.¡¨
Evangeline started chewing on her bottom lip as Nora continued.
Honestly, I know you and I know you want this.¡¨ Nora frowned as she wondered what was holding the beautiful, intelligent defensive attorney back. Why won¡¦t you take him back and make both of you happy?¡¨
Nora, I know you mean well,¡¨ Evangeline sighed, glanced at the door, and fiddled with her napkin. John and I had bigger problems than Natalie.¡¨
What is his inabilities to say the words¡¨.¡¨ Nora sounded more like she was in the courtroom cross-examining a witness instead of Rodi's having lunch with a friend. ¡§Well, I know and have seen that he has given you the words¡¨ in every fashion and form. The man can't get enough of telling and showing you how much he loves you.¡¨
You don¡¦t understand Nora.¡¨ Evangeline tried and crossed her arms in front of her chest as she looked around the room.
Do you understand¡KOkay, alright. I don¡¦t understand then, help me.¡¨ Nora demanded. Evangeline, look at me, look at me!¡¨
Evangeline locked eyes with her comrade.
You love John. Why won¡¦t you give him a second chance?¡¨ Nora queried. ¡§You know. I rarely if ever admit I was wrong, but I was wrong about John.¡¨
Okay. I have one bacon cheeseburger with extra tomatoes and bacon with onions rings on the side.¡¨ The waitress interrupted placing Nora's order in front of her.
Evangeline was thankful for the interruption as she shifted in her seat and prepared herself to eat. She figured the arrival of their food would help her dodge her friends questioning. She wished she had answers for her girl, but she had been asking herself the same questions.
Twenty minutes without McBain¡¦s name being mentioned, Evangeline figured Nora had tabled her inquiries on John. They had talked about everything from the up coming award ceremony for Llanview¡¦s finest to some recent events in town. And, Evangeline was surprised and pleased that Nora didn¡¦t mention John¡¦s name when they were discussing the award ceremony.
So, are you going with Hugh to this award ceremony to make John jealous?¡¨ Nora checked her friend¡¦s reaction to the subject matter. ¡§You know, Bo got a table for the award¡¦s dinner again. He thought it would be nice for all of us to sit together.¡¨
Nora, I¡¦m going with Hugh¡Kbecause he asked me first.¡¨ Evangeline rolled her eyes at her friend as she wondered to herself why she thought her best friend would let it go. Nora could be like a dog with a bone sometimes. She smiled inside knowing she had the same trait at times. ¡§John understood¡Kunderstands. It's not like we are dating or anything.¡¨
I wonder how John is going to handle watching you and Hugh together all night.¡¨ Nora couldn¡¦t help but pondered the possible disaster if the Lieutenant couldn¡¦t handle it. You know, John hates seeing you with other men¡Kand I don¡¦t think he's a big fan of Hugh Hughes.¡¨
John is not the type of person to cause a scene, so I think Hugh will be safe.¡¨ Evangeline replied and ate some more of her salad as she contemplated her friend¡¦s scenario. She knew it would be torture for John to watch her with Hugh, and she was delighted over the fact. It wasn¡¦t like she was setting things up that way. Honestly, until now, she hadn¡¦t even thought about it.
Would it bother you if John was escorting someone else?¡¨ Nora baited.
You¡Kyou are¡Kimpossible.¡¨ Evangeline crossed her legs and placed her hands in her lap and glared at the woman grinning across from her. She shook her head at the older woman and sucked her teeth as she realized only in the courtroom was she going to beat Nora Hanen. But, she knew John wouldn¡¦t take anyone else, because he only wanted to be with her. He learned from his mistake with Natalie, and she knew he wouldn¡¦t place another woman in that predicament. John wanted her, and he¡¦s not making any secrets about it. So, what was her problem? John¡KJohn said he probably won't attend Bo isn't making it mandatory.¡¨
I can change that if you want.¡¨ She smirked. And, you didn't answer my question.¡¨
You know like I know John hates formal events.¡¨ Evangeline shrugged as she reached for her water glass. ¡§He¡¦s always joking that he would rather have a root canal done without anesthesia.¡¨
So, it would bother you to see him with someone?¡¨ Nora raised her right eyebrow as she teasingly grilled Evangeline. I'm asking a direct question, and I feel I deserve a direct answer.¡¨
Evangeline wanted to say with confidence It wouldn't happen¡¨ instead she answered. If John had a date, I would be okay with it, but, John has already told me if he couldn't go with me he would be attending alone.¡¨
Watch out Hugh Hughes.¡¨ Nora laughed.
John¡¦s Apartment ¡V a week later
Thanks for having dinner with me.¡¨ John dried the last plate from dinner with the dishcloth he was holding then studied Evangeline. She had insisted on helping him do the dishes since he cooked.
I ran out of excuses.¡¨ She teased avoiding eye contact. He had asked her over for dinner every night since she went to the award ceremony with Hugh. The night turned out wonderfully; even though, she had to call both men on the carpet thirty minutes after John¡¦s arrival. She wasn¡¦t going to be in the middle of any pissing contest. For the rest of the night, both John and Hugh were respectful of the others position and her feelings. But, she had to be honest with herself. John was wearing her down with the attention he was showering her.
John glanced around the kitchen and noticed Chance was over in the corner sleeping on the floor vent. He smiled slightly then turned his attention to his guest. She had been abnormally quiet tonight. They have been talking non-stop for the last couple of weeks in almost every form of communication possible. He smiled as he thought about some of her texts and emails.
So, Sunshine, why are you so quiet tonight?¡¨ John teased knowing she wasn¡¦t going to give him a retort. The night she told him to go rent Harlem Nights for his answer on why she chose SunshineESQ as her screen name he did. A woman in the movie was described to have a treasure between her legs so good that if you threw it up in the air, it would turn into sunshine. He knew first hand Cookie could claim to be the original for that nickname. She had him turned out since the first night they were together, but he¡¦ll never tell her. He smiled for days agreeing with and using the nickname for her. It slightly bothered him when she confessed later that an old boyfriend whose name was Harlem ironically stole it from the movie for her. He was pleased reality took over his stupid male ego because he knew she wasn¡¦t a virgin. They both had their share of lovers, but he and Evangeline were soulmates. They were destined to be together. Hon, you want to talk about whatever got you deep in thought?¡¨
Evangeline smiled weakly then pulled the chain on the sink stopper. I was just thinking, I didn't know you knew how to cook.¡¨ She looked up into his mesmerizing blue eyes and saw love and patience. She also saw that he knew she was avoiding whatever she was brooding over.
Well, I didn¡¦t know I could cook either.¡¨ He commented shoving his hands into his pockets feeling the temptation to reach out and touch her increasing rapidly. I picked up a few things when I was taking care of my grandfathe He love eggs.¡¨
It was surprisingly delicious.¡¨ She ran her fingers through her hair and walked over to the island and leaned against it. ¡§I never had an Irish omelet. You have to give me the recipe.¡¨
Only if you let me¨ He waited until she looked at him with her dark chocolate eyes. He saw the curiosity in her eyes, as she remained silence as he continued. ¡§Make Denver omelet for you tomorrow.¡¨
Denver omelet.¡¨ Evangeline chewed on her bottom lip and wondered if she would be pushing her luck with allowing him to cook for her two days in a roll. Her heart was melting. She studied him for a minute and knew he was her destiny, but why couldn¡¦t she take the leap into this relationship. ¡§We will see?¡¨ She answered moving around to the other side of the island.
Okay.¡¨ John replied watching her. He vowed to himself to give her all the time she needed to accept that they were meant to be together. ¡§Would you like a glass of wine? I picked up a bottle from Nash's vineyard.¡¨
I've love a glass.¡¨ She responded watching him walk over to the refrigerator. But, I really should be going. I have a big day tomorrow.¡¨
All work and no play, Counselor.¡¨ John smiled at her as he read the desire in her eyes while he stood by the fridge. The last time those words were spoken between the two of them she had said them to him. And, he remembered like it was yesterday; even though, it has been over a year. How they played that day. It was magical like all their times together were. ¡§Are you sure? We could listen to some music, drink some wine, and look at the stars from the window.¡¨
Look at the stars.¡¨ Evangeline couldn't help laughing. McBain, I didn't know you had such an interest in astrology.¡¨
I don't¨ He admitted fighting the urge to reach out for her and touch her soft skin. ¡§My interest is solely in Evangeline Cookie¡¨ Williamson.¡¨
You are too much.¡¨ She laughed and started towards the front room. Thank you for tonight. I really had a good time.¡¨
You¡¦re welcome...only the best for you.¡¨ John spoke her Uncle¡¦s words to him. Evangeline looked into his eyes and felt overwhelmed by the love she saw in them. She quickly turned realizing she had to leave soon if she was going to leave at all.
Goodnight John.¡¨ She walked over to the door.
Let me walk you down.¡¨ He offered grabbing her purse that she was forgetting.
No.¡¨ Evangeline spun around and shook her head determined. There is no need. This is¡Kthis wasn¡¦t a date.¡¨ Seeing the pain in his eyes, she regretted her words. I'll be okay making it one flight down, John.¡¨ She reached for her purse making sure she didn't touch his hand. Thanks again for tonight.¡¨
John remained quiet as he watched her walk out his front door. He looked down at Chance and sighed.
I have one more hand, and I'm putting everything on the table with it.¡¨ He informed the dog then turned to go take his routine cold shower. He had found that the cold showers slightly helped pacify his desire for his true love. He prayed he could break through Evangeline¡¦s defensives soon, but if not, he¡¦ll wait a lifetime. It has been proven that what his body, soul, and mind needed was her and only her.
Evangeline walked into her apartment debating whether or not she did the right thing leaving John¡¦s apartment. She had to admit with every encounter they had a piece of her imagery wall was coming down. She yearned for him. He was still the only man who could take her into his arms and make her forget about everything else in the world. He was still the only man she wanted. Sighing, she tossed her purse on the couch and noticed something white fell to the floor. She walked over to it, picked it up, and tried to recognize the greeting card size envelope. She also tried to recall when she placed it inside her purse. Was she losing her mind?
When she opened the envelope she found two-pieces of paper and a CD. She was puzzled when she saw the familiar handwriting was John¡¦s. Still holding all the contents of the envelope, she opened the first letter and began reading.
Evangeline,
I remember you once told me to prove I didn¡¦t want to lose you. I am attempting to do that now. They say never too late, and I implore that is true. I hope after tonight, you no longer have a single doubt in your mind about how I feel for you and my commitment to you. I don¡¦t want to miss out on the best thing that has happened between the two of us. I know I said I will accept your offer of friendship, but you know all is fair in love. I vow never to give you less than every-
thing I have inside of me. There will never be another mystery on how I feel about you. Evangeline, you have forever been in my heart and thoughts since that first kiss at the Palace. You are my Lady in Red, and I¡¦m never going to let you go. You stood up in front of a
crowd in hopes to break through to my heart. I¡¦m offering you a poem straight from my heart. Please, bare with me. I have never verbalized my love in this fashion, but I hope you enjoy. Also, here¡¦s a CD especially for you. I will never think of torturing you with an attempt to sing, but you deserve nothing but the best yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Love, John
Evangeline didn¡¦t bother wiping the tears running down her cheek, because she figured there would be more. She opened the second sheet of paper to reveal a poem titled, ¡§Everything I Have Inside¡¨.
In the opening of the poem, John expressed his foolishness of letting a precious love slip through his life. There was no assumption that the writer regretted the mistakes of thinking with his mind and not with his heart. He said he did in plain English. He mentioned the mistakes he made on correcting his shortcomings and the penance he ordained for his life. He exposed a man who never felt good enough to a man who would always be the best for his love.
She finally wiped her right cheek as the words from his epic pierced her heart. She looked towards Heaven, inhaled, prayed for God to help her, exhaled, and continued reading.
John¡¦s poetry described his feelings and their love in an intoxicating, mesmerizing, and surviving manner. He had her attention as her eyes scanned over statements he had made in the past that he placed to make his meaning clear. She recalled when he said ¡§they were worth fighting for¡¨, what we had no one could ever take away¡¨, ¡§you¡¦re the woman I want to be with yesterday, today, and tomorrow¡¨, and ¡§even if I get torn apart again, you are worth it¡¨.
By the middle, he offered pleads for forgiveness and new beginnings. He summarized their possible future with five elegant and romanticized phrases. At the end, he presented her with promises of a whole new world if given the chance. He conveyed a declaration that he had never felt a love like theirs. He articulated on how he¡¦ll give anything to get her to take a chance again. He finished his poem with saying she was everything he ever wanted, and he was surrendering everything he had inside to her.
Evangeline sniffed, wiped her nose with her left index finger, and pushed her hair behind her left ear. The pull on her heart for this man was so great. She closed her eyes and prayed for strength as she looked at the CD in her hands. She walked over to her CD player and pushed the open/close button. Placing the CD insides, she noticed the writing on the CD. He titled the CD. It was the same as the poem. She appreciated even more the significance of the poem and CD. John McBain wasn¡¦t the type of man to do either¡Knot even for the woman he loved. She pressed play then ran both of her hands through her hair. She closed her eyes, and she felt the connection between herself and John at that moment like she never felt it before. As she listened to the CD, she knew which verses from the songs he desired to penetrate her heart. She willed herself to psychologically focus on the words.
Evangeline found herself slowly opening her heart as she allowed the tears to flow down her face as she continued to listen to the CD. He included Selena¡¦s ¡§Dreaming of You¡¨ and Jaheim¡¦s ¡§Forever¡¨. These two songs were sung at her cousin¡¦s wedding, which they were in the wedding party. These two songs gave her a moment to get control over her emotions; even though, the meanings were just as powerful as the others. In this moment, she thought about the sequences of the songs, and she could see John wondering what order to put the songs and why. She smiled as his choices confirmed his inexperience. The next songs were old school slow jams ¡§Weak¡¨ a cappella version by SWV and ¡§If This World Was Mine¡¨ by Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn. And, suddenly, the words of the songs took over her again. She didn't know she had moved from in front of the stereo, but she felt the wall behind her as she searched for a place to escape. Knowing her back was literally against the wall, she slide down the wall to the floor. She placed her hand over her mouth then her heart as she closed her eyes and allowed herself to surrender to the love she felt for John. Her free hand reached for something and landed on the carpet beside her. The lyrics from the songs continued to engulf her like a mystical force.
When American Idol contestant Katharine McPhee song ¡§My Destiny¡¨ started, Evangeline totally yielded to her feelings, and instead of hearing the woman who was actually singing the song, she heard the husky sexy voice of the man she was in love with affirming the words.
I have always dreamed of this
I'll admit that there was something I missed
Wonderin' if it is for real
Every mistake, every wrong turn
Every time I lost my way
Led me to this, moment of bliss, tonight
With you, finally I can break free
With you, I saw a changing in my destiny
Dream come true, it's so funny now that I see
How different life turned out to be
You were always by my side
That you believed in me was enough reason why
I didn't stop, didn't give up
Even if I sometimes lost hope
I did my best, and I am blessed
In life
With you, finally I can break free
With you, I saw a changing in my destiny
Dream come true, it's so funny now that I see
How different life turned to be
Can I get any higher
Tell me, does it get any stronger?
I owe it to you, that I made it through
I never could've done it, without you
With you, I can break free, yeah
With you, I saw a changing in my destiny
Dream come true, it's so funny now that I see
How different life turned out to be
[Oh, cause of you, I saw a changing in my destiny
Dream come true, it's so funny now that I see
How different life turned out to be
I've realized that it's my destiny
John opened the door to his condo wearing only pajama bottoms. He blinked several times as he focused on the image before him. When he recognized Evangeline standing before him, his heart started beating triple time. He wiped his mouth as he witnessed the tears streaming down her cheeks, and misinterpreted their meaning. He started to open his mouth, and she covered them with her own. He automatically buried one hand in her thick mane and used the other one to cup her face.
Within seconds, the kiss exploded into a hungry reclaiming of their souls. They both felt a completeness within themselves that was unexplainable. They moderately experienced this feeling earlier in their relationship after John had attached a string to her wrist and offered her a commitment. But this amazing occurrence was an unification of their entity. Both knew in this instant that they were each other¡¦s destiny.