It was TJ's 19th birthday and his brothers had planned a party for him! They wouldn't tell him where exactly they were going though and TJ was anxious to know!
"Come on guys!" TJ pleaded , trying to pry it out of them.
"No! You'll see when we get there!" Taj said handing Taryll a blindfold and opening the car door. As Taryll wrapped the blindfold around TJ's eyes Taj said, "How many fingers am I holding up?" Then he put up 3 fingers.
"How am I suppose to know?! I can't see anything! " TJ said kinda laughing.
Taryll says, "Okay , get into the car. I think you're going to love this party..hehe"
TJ just laughed as Taryll helped him into the car and shut the door then got in the front seat with Taj. After Taryll had shut his door they started off towards the party.
As they drive down the road TJ says , "How come I gotta be blind folded. Are we going to the bat cave or something? This thing is itching my face and I can't see a thing..."
Taj says, "Oh, quite complaining! Heh We'll get there soon enough and believe me...I think you'll thank us afterwards."
Just as Taj said this he parked into the parking lot and got out and opened TJ's door as Taryll helped him out. Both of them guided him through a door and seated him down at a table. Then Taryll took off his blind fold and said, "Ta da!"
TJ looked around him and saw bright blue, pink, and green lights everywhere. A dance light shined over the floor and there was a stage across the room.
"Are we in a club or something? How come no one is here?" TJ asked.
Taryll grins, "Cuz we haven't told them to come out yet..heh."
Then Taj yells, "Okay everyone! He's here now!!!"
Suddenly a bunch of his friends come out from behind a door and walk towards him. "Oh wow!! Hey guys! What are you doing here?!" TJ says excited.
One of TJ's good friends comes up and says, "We come bearing gifts..heh Naah man we came to throw you a party for your 19th! It was everyone's idea!"
TJ laughs and gives him a brotherly slap on the back and says, "Well thanks man!"
Then a bunch of his other friends come up to him as well and give him gifts.
"You guys I can't thank you enough!" TJ says, "This is great!"
Taj laughs, "Well, there's more! Start the music!!!"
Just as if it was planned music started blaring over the speakers, "It's all about the Benjamin's!!" It was the remix to the new Puff Daddy song and there were lights chasing each other around the dance floor. His friends came out and started dancing pulling him into the crowd.
As they danced more people arrived and waiters and waitresses came out offering drinks and food. Taj and Taryll hadn't made it a private party so everyone else could party with them as well.
After the song was over TJ went over and sat down with his brothers. "You guys this is great! " he said very excited and yelling over the music.
"We knew you'd enjoy it! " Taryll said grinning.
Then a young waitress came over to their table and said trying to drown out the music , " Can I get you anything?"
TJ looked up to her and suddenly his heart was in his throat. "Woah.." he whispered to himself.
Taj saw his expression and laughed to himself, "I'll have a coke."
Taryll sees also and says, "I'll have the same."
The waitress looks at TJ and says, "And for you sir?"
Her words didn't even make sense to him. He was too occupied staring at her. She had shoulder length black hair that she had let loose. She had a normal figure...and her nails were painted just the perfect color to match her cocoa colored skin. She held a pen in her hand and some paper...OH!! "Um..I'll have a ...a..I'll have what they'rehaving." He finally said.
"Okay...3 cokes. I'll be back in a sec." She said.
As she turned to leave TJ checked her name tag. Big letters read : TRACY. He'd remember that..
"Um...I'll have a...oh um..I'l have a ...oh..my name? Well it's..um..my name is..uh.." Taryll said mimicking TJ.
"Oh give me a break.." TJ said grinning.
"You like her?" Taj asked.
"Taj! Geez..it's none of your business..hah" TJ said kinda giggling.
Then 3 cokes are put on the table and Tracy says, "Okay here's your 3 cokes. They're on the house so don't worry about paying. The other waitresses wanted to pay for it since it was one of your all's birthday..."
Taj says, "Yeah, it's TJ's 19th birthday." Then he points to TJ. He grins trying to play it cool.
"Well congratulations," Tracy says with a grin , "I hope you're having fun. In a few minutes we'll have some live acts on stage so hopefully that will get you and everyone else livened up." Then she turns to leave..then she turns back around. "Hey TJ..are you shy?" she says still grinning.
TJ kinda raises his eyebrows.."Well..I guess..I mean..I don't know.
Tracy says, "Okay. That's all I wanted to know. Enjoy your party." Then she walks off.
TJ instantly darts his eyes to Taryll and TJ..."Is she part of this whole thing too?"
Taryll shakes his head..."Nope.."
Suddenly the sound of a mic being tested is heard and the room is quiet. Then a DJ's voice is heard over the speakers..."What's up party people!!! Are you having a good time??!" The crowd responds with a loud...."Yeah!!"
The DJ continues.."Well tonight we got a special show for you all! We're going to introduce some ladies that are going to put a little groove on for everyone. They also got a little sumthin' sumthin' for a lucky guy out here tonight. So put your hands together for a great show tonight!
Then on cue the lights go dim and the stage goes black. TJ watches carefully wondering what will happen next.
All at once the lights start flashing on stage and reveal 5 girls all dressed in shiny silver jumpsuit outfits. Then the sound of a horn being played is heard..and the beginning of "Feel So Good" by Mase is heard...."Party people..It's the place to be..it's about that time..For us to..yeah...!" Then the music skips to the chorus.."bad bad bad bad boy you make me feel so good..." The girls on stage do a fast up-tempo catchy dance that gets the crowd excited and jumping. TJ can't even keep still as they perform...Then all of a sudden the music stops and the girls freeze with their legs apart , head down, and hands held behind their back...then after about 5 seconds of silence they drop to the ground as "Shoop" starts.
The girls dance revealing new moves and taking off clothing till they are wearing only a sleeveless thin top, and short skirt. The music is quiet again and the dancers freeze. One of the girls starts making her way through the crowd walking towards TJ in slow long steps. As she got closer TJ noticed that the girl was Tracy.
When she got about 2 yards from him she stopped and the lights went dim. Then a spot light was shown on her. She held a mic in her hand and looked at TJ with seductive eyes. TJ was anxious to see what she was up to..
Slowly the sound of soft easy listening music is played..and finger snaps are heard...TJ instantly recognized the song..it was his Aunt Janet's..."Anytime, Anyplace.."
...except Tracy was going to sing it.
Tracy walked a little closer using movements to match the words she sang.."In the thundering rain, you stare into my eyes, I can feel your hands moving up thighs, skirt around my waist..wall against my face, I can feel your lips....oooh..."
TJ wasn't sure what she was trying to achieve but whatever it was it was driving him crazy. She came closer running her fingertips down his cheek..."Anytime...anyplace..I don't care who's around...no..no..no.no..no..."
Then she pulled him up and wrapped his hand around her waist .."Dancing on the floor..feeling the slow groove..." TJ couldn't stop grinning and his heart just about stopped as she pushed him back in his seat and leaned down and whispered in his ear .."I was thinking maybe we could...well you know..." then soon finishes the song.
The song stopped and the sound of the audience giving applause and whistles being made were heard. TJ had to swallow and take a deep breath to bring himself back to reality. He was put back into his trance though as Tracy leaned down and whispered a little more..."Happy Birthday, Shy Guy...." then she pulled away letting her lips just barely touch his. Then she kinda winked and walked away.
When she was gone Taryll said really loud, , "WOAH! TJ do you realize what just happened?!"
TJ grins .."Yeah I do...heh"
"And you are going to just sit there and play stupid?!" Taj says, "Why don't you go talk to her or something!"
"Naah..she probably was paid to do that you know. For all I know you guys could have put her up to that." TJ said.
Taryll says, "We swear we didn't know she was going to do that. Now come on..it's your birthday! Go take some chances and talk to the girl!"
TJ grins and looks towards the direction she went and sees her disappear around the corner. Taking a deep breath he stands up and follows her.
He finally catches up with her and sees her come out of a room with jeans and the same shirt she was wearing earlier. She grins at him as she sees him and puts a finger up to tell him to hold on. Then she goes to a desk and turns in her waitress outfit and walks over to him.
"Hey there Birthday Boy. Can I help you with something?" Tracy says.
TJ kinda nervously says, "Well I was just kinda wondering what inspired that little show on the dance floor a few minutes ago.."
Tracy giggles looking at the floor then looking back up at him, "Well the other waitresses kinda talked me into doing it. I'm the youngest out of all them and they are always pushing me into things..heh. They thought you'd enjoy it.....did you?" She says, obviously a little self conscious.
TJ grins running his hand through his curly hair and says, "Yeah I did...truthfully I think any guy would have..heh" he says laughing nervously.
Tracy grins, "Hey um..I'm off of work now...so um..you wanna go out there and dance or something? I mean unless you have a girlfriend or something...."
TJ looks at her and says, "If I had a girlfriend I wouldn't have came here to talk to you and I'd love to dance with you..that is if you can keep up!"
Tracy laughs, "No it's the other way around..you'll have to keep up with ME!" then she runs out to the dance floor waiting for him.
As soon as he reaches her "The Train" by the Quad City DJ's starts to play and the whole crowd is dancing to it. As Tracy starts dancing TJ does too following her moves and getting into a little bump and grind session and really rocking the floor. Suddenly they are both in the middle of a circle with the crowd cheering them on and loving every minute of it! The song stops and the crowd screams!
TJ catching his breath and trying to figure out if he really did just do what he was just doing says, "Wow!"
Tracy laughs and says, "Man! I haven't had that much fun in a long time! You really got some moves there boy!"
TJ laughs, "I've learned from the best..heh"
Then the lights go down and couples embrace as the DJ announces, "Okay people this is the last song for the night. Hope you all enjoyed it here tonight and we hope to see you all here again! Now to end the night here we're gonna play a slow jam for you all..."
Then LSG's "My Body" starts to play and TJ looks at Tracy .."You wanna..?"
Tracy grins and moves closer to him resting her hands on his shoulders and looking up to him. TJ puts his hands on her waist and leads the dance grinning.
"So..um..how old are you anyway?" TJ says.
Tracy smiles, "I'm 18 but I'll be 19 in a few months."
TJ smiles too and continues to dance with her. Eventually Tracy has her arms rested on his chest and her head leaning on his chest as well. TJ closes his eyes and dances with her until the music stops.
When it does TJ feels kinda sad and says, "Is there anyway I can get a hold of you sometime? That is if you are interested in that.."
Tracy grins, "I'm interested...how about you meet me here at 9 tomorrow. I get off work then...we can go get something to eat or walk around town. Is that okay?"
TJ smiles,"That's perfect. I'll see you then. " He gives her an innocent hug then walks off to his brothers.
Taj looks at him with a menacing grin.."So did we have fun?"
TJ laughs, "Yes I did. Thanks a lot for bringing me here, but we better get home or we'll never see the end of it from Poppa T."
Taryll says, "Yeah we should."
Then they all get in the car and drive home.
When they get home they walk through the door and they see Poppa T sitting on the couch playing some tunes on his guitar. He looks up at them and says, "Hey boys! Did you all have fun?"
TJ smiles, "Lots! We had a great time!"
Taryll laughs, "Yeah..especially TJ. He met a girl there..."
Poppa T puts his guitar down and laughs, "Oh really? Well you know what I'm going to say..."
TJ grins, "Yes..yes..I know. Be careful and don't fall for something that isn't really there cuz the girl could be pulling my chain...heh"
Poppa T smiles, "I've taught you well son..haha. Oh, your Uncle Michael left something here for you while you were gone. He said he hopes you like it and he is sorry he couldn't spend time with you for your birthday but he'll make it up to you. It's on your bed in your room."
TJ grins and says.."Thanks!" then he darts to his room and flings his door open! There on his bed is a huge wrapped gift. He couldn't tell what it was yet but soon he would! He tore open the package and almost screamed in excitement! It was a brand new guitar! He had mentioned to his uncle that he was saving up some money to get a new one but he had never thought that he would get him one! Then there was also a little box and TJ opened it. He was just as excited as before when he saw what it was! It was a guitar pick that had all of the band members of Oasis'signatures in little print.
TJ carefully put the pick down and picked up the phone and dialed his Uncle Michael's number. The phone rang and he answered, "Hello?" Michael said.
"Hey Uncle Mike!" TJ says kinda yelling, "I can't thank you enough for the gift! I love it! And don't worry about not being able to spend time with me cuz I know you are busy. I understand.."
Michael laughs and says, "I thought you would like it. Now the next time I see you I wanna hear you play something on it for me okay?"
TJ excited says, "You bet! Man..thanks so much!"
"No problem my man..heh. So how was your night out on the town? I heard you were out having some fun with the rest of the T clan.." Michael says.
TJ gets excited again, "It was great! We went to a club and I met this really great girl! She can dance..sing..and she's got some really high ratings in the looks department!"
Michael laughs at TJ's enthusiasm and says, "Hmm well just be careful! Cuz coming from someone that knows...girls can really pull off a convincing front on us and I don't want you to have to go through that."
"Thanks..and don't worry I'm 19 now! I can take care of myself! " TJ says.
"Yeah a big boy now! Hah Ahem..ohh..excuse me..MAN...heh. You know I remember when you were running around in little diapers and causing trouble wherever you went.. Michael starts..
"Oh no! Don't start with the "I remember when" stories! If you really want to get into the topic of memories I have a few about you that I've heard from Poppa T I could dish out!" TJ says laughing.
Michael giggles and says, "Well sometime I'll tell you a few stories I have up my sleeve about Tito that he would kill me for telling you about!"
TJ laughs, "I can't wait! Hah Well I just wanted to tell ya thanks! You're the best! I should go now and catch up on my practice.."
"Anytime big boy! Stay out of trouble and I'll see ya soon. Tell the rest of the Stooges I said hey for me! C'ya!" Michael says then he hangs up.
TJ hangs up too and walks over to his guitar and sits on his bed. He picks up the guitar pick and plays a chord. Then he lets the music flow and he starts to play the tune to "Wonderwall" ...he found it so hard to believe that Oasis had played the exact same song with this pick. After a while of practicing he put the guitar down and laid in bed.
He couldn't wait for 9 tomorrow night. It had been a long time since he had had a date with a girl. He hoped things would go well. This had to have been the best birthday he had ever had so far!
The next morning TJ wakes up and takes a shower then gets dressed. He plays a few chords of "Anything" on his guitar then puts it under his bed and walks downstairs.
When he walks downstairs his adrenaline picks up as he sees Janet in the kitchen. She is cooking up some breakfast and it was smelling really good!
"Hey Aunt J!" TJ says running up to her and hugging her.
Janet laughs and pats him on the back, "Hey sleepy head! I didn't think you were going to get up! "
TJ laughs and glances at the clock letting go of her. Whoa! IT was 11 O'clock. "I guess I was really tired.heh. So what are you doing here?"
Janet grins stirring some hashbrowns that are in a skillet, "Well I thought I'd surprise you and come down for a week or so. Rene made me take a break. We cancelled a few concerts and appearances so we could spend some time with the family..."
TJ smiles stealing a hashbrown and says, "You deserve a break believe me! Man it's great to see you! Is Rene here too?"
"Yeah I think he's in the living room fighting with Taj and Taryll over what character in Street Fighter 2 dominates the game or something...heh." Janet replies.
TJ laughs giving her a kiss on the cheek and running off to the living room.
Rene instantly greets him, "Hey! Look who finally decided to join us!"
"Hey , it's good to see you too...haha" TJ says.
"I heard you were getting freaky with some girl at a club last night.." Rene says kinda laughing.
TJ throws a couch pillow at both Taryll and Taj, "You guys can't keep nothing to yourself huh?!"
Taryll says, "Hey watch it man!"
Taj just sits in his chair laughing hysterically and trying to calm himself down.
Suddenly Janet calls, "Okay children, brunch is ready!"
They all race to the table and eat their brunch. It was afternoon so it
couldn't necessarily be breakfast.
After they got done eating Poppa T came through the door and says, "Anyone for a little competition? I say we all go outside and play some baseball!"
Janet laughs, "I don't know I think I'll pass."
TJ says, "Oh come on Aunt J! It will be fun! "
Janet laughs and giving in says, "Oh, alright as long as I can be on the opposite side of Rene! It's about time I get to whoop his booty in somethin'!
Then they all file outside and play a game of baseball.
The day seemed to go so fast! TJ's team ended up winning the baseball game. His team consisted of himself, Janet, and Taj.
TJ checked the clock for the millionth time and this time was relieved to see it was 7:30. He went and took a shower and got ready. When he was all ready he picked up his keys and said good-bye to everyone then got in his car and drove to the club.
When he got there the club was crazy! People were bumping into each other everywhere. After what seemed like hours he made his way to the back of the club to meet Tracy. He looked around for her but she wasn't back there...where was she?
Out of nowhere he felt someone tap him on his shoulder. He turned around and smiled to see Tracy standing there. "I was afraid you didn't show up." TJ says.
Tracy grins, "I'm not like that...Now where do you want to go?"
TJ says, "Anywhere you want to go. I want you to have a good time. So you pick where we go."
"Awwww.." Tracy says, "Hmmm..well I do know of a place we could go. You know that little lake that is about 10 minutes from here?"
"Yeah, I know where that is. " he says.
"Well lets go there..if that sounds like fun to you." Tracy says questionably.
TJ grins, "That sounds great! Come on lets go.." he says making his way through the crowd and out to his car. Both of them get in and they start on their way to the lake.
When they get there both of them get out and Tracy makes her way to the edge of the lake sitting down on the grass. TJ walks over to where she was sitting down too. The ground was pretty cool...and it was surprisingly warm tonight.
Tracy pulls her knees to her chest and looks around. Then she looks at TJ.."So how come you don't have a girlfriend? I was sure that you did..."
TJ grins pulling at some blades of grass from the ground.."Just haven't had the time. Plus I haven't been out much and haven't had the chance to meet anyone. And how come YOU don't have a boyfriend now that we're on the subject."
Laughing, Tracy says, "Nice come back..heh Same reason as you. No time to really dedicate my time towards a relationship. It seems like I'm either working, trying to pay off my car, or trying to get through all the obstacles that I'm going through. You know?"
TJ says, "More than you know..."
"You know..this may sound stupid..but..what does TJ stand for?" Tracy asks.
TJ leans back with his hand behind his back, "It stands for Tito Joe..."
Tracy grins.."I see..I was just wondering.." then she moves up towards
the water more and says.."Come here.."
TJ moves up to where she is.."What?"
Tracy takes his hand and puts it in the water gently. "IS that cold to you?"
TJ grins, "Nope..why?"
Tracy grins too.."Well, how about you turn on your headlights on your car and we go for a swim?"
"You have got to be crazy.." TJ says.
"Why's that?" Tracy asks, "Ain't nothing in there that is going to get ya...except maybe me..heh"
TJ laughs.."Oh..I don't know...I mean..we'd be all wet..and I can't afford to get sick."
"Pleeease.." Tracy says, "We could sit out and dry."
TJ would not normally go and do something as wild as this but for some reason Tracy made him feel daring. He thought for a moment looking at Tracy as she waited for an answer...then he got up and turned on his headlights. Then came back.."Okay you talked me into it..heh But I still think that you are crazy.."
Tracy just laughs taking off her shoes and socks then goes to take off her shirt..
"Hey..wait.." TJ says.
Looking puzzled Tracy says.."Huh?...oh...I'm not gonna like strip or nothing! Geez..heh I'm just taking off my shirt and pants I promise."
TJ feeling a little better says.."Okay.." and takes off his socks and shoes as well. Then he starts to take of his pants then thinks twice.
"You are shy aren't ya?" Tracy says, "As long you got something underneath those pants you don't have nothing to be shy about.."
TJ grins kinda blushing...then takes off his pants. Tracy grins and says.."Mmm...blue's my favorite color..heh" then she walks into the water.
TJ follows her ...and lets his eyes follow as well. He couldn't explain just how much he wanted to hold her...he knew she was teasing him by all this but he was loving it. He scooped some water up and splashed it at Tracy laughing.
Tracy yelps! "Hey, Boy!!" Then she splashes water back at him. Then they both end up having a splashing war which ends with Tracy pushing TJ into the water.
TJ comes up out of the water laughing and running his fingers over his face wiping the water away. Tracy laughs getting into the water fully too and swimming around a little. "See isn't this fun?" Tracy says smiling.
TJ smiles.."Yeah it is. I haven't been swimming in awhile."
"Me either.." Tracy says. "The water is really beautiful.."
Grinning TJ decides to show how good he is at teasing as well and says, "Yeah..when the light hits it just right it makes it and everything in it look amazing.."
Tracy blushes and says, "I agree..." moving closer to him. Then she takes his hand and pulls him towards her. She wraps her arms around his neck then wraps her legs around his waist.."Did you know that in water you practically weigh nothing? I could pick you up just like this and have no problem.."
TJ a little surprised puts his hands under her legs supporting her and says, "Yeah, my brothers and I used to think we were some big stuff cuz we could pick our dad up. Unfortunately we found out later that we weren't actually that strong..heh"
Tracy smiles, "I wish I had some brothers or sisters. After my mom had me she decided she didn't want anymore so I've kinda entertained myself all my life."
"I'm sorry...It's important to grow up with someone...but hey if you want I'm sure my brothers wouldn't mind you hanging around. They're great most the time..heh" TJ says.
"I don't want to be a bother..maybe some time though." Tracy says. Then she moves away and swims toward a part of the lake that the bridge covers. TJ follows her and as soon as he catches up with her says, "Where you going?"
Tracy just leans against the bridge wall. The water wasn't too deep here so she could keep herself up by her feet. She just stood there looking at him not saying a word...
TJ moves closer and says..."You really are into this teasing thing huh?"
Tracy keeps a serious yet flirty face and says,.."Teasing? what are you talking about?.."
He moved a little closer but she didn't move at all. He could tell that she was pushing his confidence and was going to make him make the first move. So slowly he moved to where their bodies just barely touched. He reached out and stroked her bare arm...and looked into her eyes.
Tracy kinda shivered and little drops of water fell from her eye lashes...TJ leaned close and kissed one drop from her eyes. Tracy closed her eyes and leaned her head back. TJ really wanted to kiss her..but this is something he wouldn't normally do. This was moving too fast and he liked to take things slow. But there was something about this girl that just got his hormones working triple time...so he took her face in his hand and kissed her softly. She wrapped her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist once again and kissed him back. Pretty soon the soft kiss turned into a passionate deep kiss that surprised TJ so much that he backed off.
Out of breath Tracy says.."I'm sorry..I got out of line.."
TJ looks around nervous..."No..you didn't do anything that I wasn't thinking about doing. But um..I think we should get out and start drying off."
Tracy says, "Yeah me too.." then she starts to swim towards the side of the lake that they got in. She sits down on the ground pulling her legs to her chest.
TJ reaches land and goes to his car kinda shivering. He gets in the trunk hoping to find a blanket or something. Sure enough there was a blanket in there that he kept for emergencies or something. He took it out and wrapped it around Tracy and sat down next to her.
"Thanks..." she says. "I hope I didn't spoil this whole night for you. I didn't mean to come on so strong..I usually don't act like this...I dot know what is up.."
"Don't worry about it.." TJ says, "Tonight was great and I wouldn't change a thing. Don't feel bad about anything. I usually don't act like this either. Maybe it was something in the water...heh"
Tracy giggles a little.."yeah maybe..."
After about 30 minutes of talking a little they both finally dry off and put the rest of their clothes on and get into TJ's car. TJ drops Tracy off at her house and says.."Goodnight.."
Tracy grins and kisses him on the cheek..."Thanks for tonight. I had a lot of fun I hope we can see each other again."
TJ smiles, "Well do you have a day off anytime soon?"
Tracy says, "As a matter of fact I'm off all next week. They don't need me till next week."
TJ says, "Well , how about we have lunch together tomorrow? I'll come pick you up around 1:30 or so?"
"That sounds great.." Tracy says, "I'll be waiting." Then she gets out of the car and walks into her house.
TJ drives home feeling wonderful..but also kinda guilty..
The drive home seemed to go by so fast and he arrived at his house and shut off the car. He waited to get out and just sat back in his seat leaning his head back. Everything had seemed to go so fast. Yet he didn't know if he regretted it or not. What he did wasn't necessarily really wrong. It was just something he wouldn't normally do.
He got out of the car and walked in the house and was glad to see that everyone was asleep. He really didn't want to explain to everyone where he was. He shut the door and locked it. Then he went to the fridge and got some juice and walked up to his room and took a shower After changing into some PJs he turned off the light and got into bed. He hoped tomorrow would be as good as tonight was...
The next morning he woke up at 10 and went downstairs and fixed himself some cereal. Not long after Janet came down yawning and sat down across the table from him stealing the cereal box and eating some cereal out of it. She had this big grin on her face.
TJ just grinned.."What?" he said.
Janet just smiles, "Oh I was just wondering what you and that girl were doing that made you stay out till 10..you gonna tell me? Heh" she said.
TJ laughs.."We were just talking that's all. I'm smart okay? " then he finishes his cereal and put it in the sink.
Janet says, "You know I'm just checking on you.." then she goes to the living room and turns on the TV.
TJ just laughed and walked back upstairs and shut his door. He picked up his guitar and started to play one of his Uncle Michael's songs and sang as well.."..and you will always be..the lady in my life.." He put the guitar down and laid back on his bed and checked the clock..it was 11 O'clock now. He got up changed clothes and got ready to go out.
When it was 1 O'clock he got in his car and headed to Tracy's house. He was amazed at how anxious he was to see her again..When he arrived he got out of his car and went to the door and knocked. Tracy answered the door and said. "Hey! Give me one sec..heh" Then she went and gave her parents a hug and walked out the door shutting it.
TJ helped her to the car and opened her door and shut it for her. Then he got in the drivers side and turned on the car and started down the road. "So where do you want to go?" he said.
Tracy says, "Oh, it doesn't matter to me."
"Hmm..well how about Taco Bell or something? TJ says.
"That would be fine...but how about we get it drive through so we can talk..." Tracy says.
TJ says, "okay.." then pulls into the drive through and orders their food. After he orders their food he drives down to the lake and parks the car in the shade.
"Here ya go. " he says handing Tracy her food.
Tracy takes the food but then looks at TJ seriously.."TJ..listen I am really sorry for my actions last night. I was way out of line and I know you didn't want to do any of the things you did last night."
TJ looks her in the eyes, "Tracy..I told you last night that you didn't do anything wrong. Dont blame yourself for something that we BOTH wanted to do okay?"
Tracy kinda sighs.."Alright..." then she takes a bite of her food.
TJ takes a bite of his food too and suddenly Tracy starts laughing..."What ?" He says.
Tracy says, "Don't move.." then she moves closer to him and reaches up to his chin and wipes off some taco sauce.." there..heh"
"Ha, Ha, Ha should have brought my bib..." TJ says laughing.
Tracy giggles then they both finish their food.
TJ goes to turn on the car but Tracy puts her hand on his and says.."No...lets stay here for awhile..."
He stops and sits back in his seat.."Okay.."
Tracy smiles and says, "I just wanna sit here and talk or something...."
TJ grins..."Or something?"
Tracy playfully slaps him and says.."Boy your nasty! Heh"
He just gives her a menacing smile and pulls her closer to him. She gets on her knees facing him and strokes his face just looking into his eyes.."You want to kiss me right now don't you?" she says.
TJ turns away embarrassed and Tracy pulls his head back to face him.."You don't have to be shy about it. Just tell me..you do don't you?"
TJ looks into her eyes and says.."Come closer and you'll find out.."
Tracy leans closer her lips almost touching his....then he leans forward and kisses her softly. She kisses him back moving her hands up his arms obviously wanting more then just one innocent kiss. He goes along with her persistence and pulls her a little closer.
She runs her fingers up his neck and through his hair..then whispers in his ear.."Am I crossing the line again..?"
TJ runs his hands up her back and answers by just quieting her with another kiss. After about 15 minutes of this they both pull away and grin.
"Woah.." TJ says.."I haven't ...I mean..I haven't done that in a while.."
Tracy, looking kinda dreamy , sits back in her seat and says.."Me either..heh." Then she catches her breath and says.."Um..I should get home now.."
"No problem." TJ says turning on the car.
They drive to her house and TJ says, "Today was fun.."
Tracy grins kissing him on the cheek.."Here..I want you to have this." She hands him a piece of paper.."It's my phone number. I probably won't be able to leave the house tonight because my parents are going out and they want me to stay home."
He takes the piece of paper and puts it in his pocket, "I'll call you if I can." Then she gets out and walks into her house.
TJ drives home and pulls into the driveway then walks into the house. Where was everyone? There didn't seem to be anyone around..he walked into the living room and didn't see anyone there..then he turned and looked in the kitchen..still no one..Then suddenly Taryll and Taj jumped out and started attacking him with silly string and laughing hysterically!
"AH! I should have known !" TJ yells trying to dodge the string but not making any progress.
Taj and Taryll finally stop and say, "So..?"
TJ says.."So what?"
"So did you have a good time?" Taj says.
"A great time..heh" TJ says. "Where's Poppa T and everyone?"
"They all went somewhere. They wouldn't tell us and they said they wouldn't be back till tonight and that we have to stay home. " Taryll says.
TJ groans."Aww man...well I'm going to go to my room and play some tunes. I'll see you all later." Then he goes upstairs and plays for a while. Then he remembered that he had Tracy's number and picked up the phone and called her.
"Hello?" Tracy answers.
"Hey, it's me TJ." He says.
"Oh! Hi! What's up?" she says.
TJ laughs, "Not much actually. My dad went off somewhere and I'm stuck up in the house with my brothers bored out of my mind. "
Tracy laughs, "Well how about you come to my house?"
"No I can't...I can't leave the house." TJ says.
"Well how will he know if you get back in time?" Tracy says.
"Cuz he didn't say when he was going to be back.." TJ replies.
Tracy is silent then says.."Pleeeeease TJ? I really miss you.."
"It's only been an hour or so!" TJ says laughing.
Tracy doesn't laugh and says kinda teasingly.."If you come over you won't regret it..I promise...pleeease come over!"
TJ checks his watch. IT was about 7 now..and his curfew was 11 o'clock. Maybe if he only stayed awhile he could get back before his dad did..."Okay ..Ill be there in a while."
Tracy makes a kissing sound and says. "Thank you! I'll be waiting!" Then they both hang up.
"What am I getting myself into?" TJ says to himself. Then he gets his car keys and walks downstairs sneaking past his brothers who are playing Nintendo and out the door and drives to Tracy's house.
Once he gets there he walks up to the door and knocks. Instantly Tracy opens the door and pulls him in by his shirt and shuts the door kissing him. TJ gently pushes her away and says..."Woah.."
Tracy gives him a sad look.."What?"
"Well I mean ...I wanted that..but slow down..heh" TJ says.
Tracy smiles and walks to the couch and turns on the TV. TJ follows her and sits down next to her. "So why did you want me to come over so badly?" he says.
"I'm bored..and I missed you.." Tracy says.
TJ laughs "Your crazy.."
Tracy smiles and lays her head on his shoulder.."Yes I know." Then she finds a movie on TV and they both watch it. After it is over Tracy sits up and stares at him while he is still looking at the TV. He notices and turns to look at her and smiles.."What?"
"Nothing.." Tracy says..
TJ leans a little closer to her and strokes her arm.."Don't lie..what were you thinking?"
Tracy gets the chills and says.."I was thinking...that you are ...um..very good looking and have a wonderful smile..."
TJ grins kissing her neck.."You really think so?...Well..you're very beautiful..."
Tracy grins.."You're just saying that.."
He pulls away and looks into her eyes.."No I'm telling the truth. In fact..I was wondering if maybe you'd um...if you'd like to go out."
Tracy smiles..."I would love to.."
TJ smiles and kisses her..then they continue kissing for a few minutes.
Suddenly TJ panics and stands up!
"What?! " Tracy says.
"It's 11:30! My dad is going to kill me!! I really have to go!" TJ says running to the door and hopping in his car and driving home.
"Please don't let him be home..please..." TJ says. He pulls into the driveway and walks into the house. As he shut the door his heart practically stopped.
"So, son. Where ya been?" Poppa T says trying to play it cool but obviously looking upset.
"Um...I.." TJ says.."I was at Tracy's house.."
"Tracy?" Poppa T says, "You know you have a curfew. You are 19 now TJ aren't you a little too grown to be doing something as careless as this?"
TJ looks at his feet.."Yes I know..I"m sorry..I won't do it again..I promise.."
"That's right.."Poppa T says.."From now on your curfew is 10 and you won't be going anywhere for a week. You won't be calling Tracy or anyone else either. You have really disappointed me son.."
TJ's face was really hot now...he felt so bad. He hated to see his father disappointed in him.
"Okay, Dad.." TJ says..then he walks up to his room and sits on the bed with his head in his hands.
What was he getting himself into?
He woke up the next morning with someone knocking on his door. Sleepily he walked to the door and opened it.
"I just wanted to tell you that I have some business to take care of and won't be back till late again tonight. Don't forget you have to stay home and I don't want to find out that you called that Tracy girl either...okay?" Poppa T says.
"Okay, Dad.." TJ says sadly.
"Okay..I'll see you tonight." Poppa T says shutting the door.
TJ sat back on his bed. Why did he have to go last night? He knew the chances of him getting home on time were slim, but Tracy had talked him into it. She seemed to have a lot of control over him. Even right now he wished he could talk to her..and how could he not talk to her for a week??
TJ gets up and walks downstairs and sits on the couch glumly. Taj and Taryll were watching some wrestling match they had taped the other night and usually TJ really got into it, but he wasn't too happy right now.
Taryll says, "I heard about last night man..."
"Truthfully..it was pretty stupid bro.." Taj says.
TJ doesn't even answer he just gets up and gets some juice then goes back upstairs. Then he falls asleep not noticing it.
He wakes up a few hours later and realizes it is already afternoon..."Woah! " he says. He must have been tired. He goes downstairs and sees his brother playing Nintendo. "Hey man come play with us!" Taj says.
TJ kinda laughs and takes Taj's controller and plays against Taryll. They continue competing against each other for quite sometime then Taj says. "Lets order pizza or something I'm starving!"
Taryll says, "Okay I'll call hold on." Then he gets up and picks up the phone and dials the pizza place ordering pizza for them all.
After they all eat pizza TJ goes back up to his room and plays some music on his guitar..then his phone rings. "Hello?" He answers.
"Hey baby it's me, Tracy.." Tracy says.
TJ says, "I'm not suppose to be talking to you.."
"Why?!" Tracy says.
"Because I went out of the house when I wasn't suppose to and I was out past my curfew. My dad grounded me from going anywhere for a week. He told me I can't even talk to you for a week either." TJ says.
"TJ, I'm sorry...it's all my fault. I shouldn't have asked you to come over..I'm so sorry.." Tracy says sounding like she is about to cry..
"Tracy..don't blame yourself and don't cry. It will be okay..but I won't be able to talk to you for a week.." TJ says.
"I can't go that long without talking or seeing you TJ.." Tracy says.
TJ sighs.."Me either..but we'll have to try."
"Can't I just come over...please..?" Tracy says.
"Tracy..come on..you know you can't. My dad isn't home but my brothers are and I'm already in trouble with my dad..I feel bad enough." He says.
"TJ..but...please? Can't I just see you one more time before we have to stay away from each other for a week?" Tracy pleads...
TJ wanted so badly to give in....."Oh Tracy..I don't know...it's 6 o'clock..my dad might be home soon.."
"If he comes while I'm there I'll just sneak out..but I HAVE To see you...please...TJ.." Tracy asks.
TJ couldn't resist anymore.."Okay..but you can't stay too long.."
Tracy says. "Give me your address..."
TJ does..then tells her to come to the backdoor when she gets there.
After a few minutes she arrives and TJ is waiting for her by the door.."Shh." he says..then he leads her up to his room and shuts the door and locks it.
Tracy grins at him, "Nice house.."
TJ smiles.."Yeah..it isn't bad.." He just noticed what she was wearing and was kinda having trouble keeping his eyes off her...she was wearing a thin skirt ...and a almost see through shirt...man..her legs ...
Tracy says, "Hm...do you like?"
TJ snaps out of his day dreaming and says..."Huh?
Tracy giggles.."Do you like what you see? You're staring me down.."
TJ kinda blushes embarassed.."You know I do..."
She goes and sits on the bed crossing her legs. " So where's your dad?"
TJ goes and sits down next to her "He's doing some kinda business stuff I guess."
Tracy takes his hand and puts it on her leg and moves closer to him.."I can't stay away from you for a whole week.."
TJ almost loses his mind..."Um..well you'll have to....."
Tracy moves closer getting on her knees and running her fingers up his arms..then up his shirt sleeve...""You don't understand..."
TJ's heart was pounding...he hoped she couldn't tell. He didn't want her to stop..but he also didn't want to get in trouble..
Tracy puts her hands up his shirt..."I want to know you better TJ..."
TJ knew what she was hinting at..but he didn't know if he was ready to do that with her yet. "Tracy...I really care for you..but not yet..okay? Let's take it slow.."
Tracy giggles kissing him softly.."Take it slow? Seems to be moving pretty fast to me..." then she opens TJ's hand and sticks something in it.."Please TJ.." she says.
TJ didn't have to even look to see what it was..."Tracy...we can't do this..it's too soon and besides you have to go soon.."
Tracy kisses his neck and says.."Just put it on..we can make it quick..."
TJ throws the protection on the ground and takes Tracy's hands off of him.."No..Tracy..I think you should go...it would be best for both of us.."
Tracy looks at him with hurt eyes.."But TJ..."
"I'm not mad...just ...please go..I'll call you after my dad has cooled off..okay?" TJ says.
Tracy stands up.."Alright.."
He walks her to the door and gives her a kiss on the cheek then she walks off.
TJ walks up to his room and plops on his bed...geez. What was this girl doing?
Tracy walked back to her car. She was so steamed! Why had TJ let her come over if he knew exactly what she wanted. Was he just leading her on and then pushing her away? She knew he wanted to do it..what was holding him back? On the other hand..she almost didn't want to go that far just yet anyway.
Meanwhile in TJ's room he was trying to add up all that happened in his room and suddenly he fell asleep.
He woke up to someone screaming his name and standing over him. It was Taj and he was holding something in his hand. He couldn't quite figure out what it was yet but Taj looked really mad.
"What the hell is this?!" Taj says throwing what he was holding at TJ.
TJ sits up and looks at it then falls back on the bed.
"Awww man!" TJ says.
"Aww man is not even going to cut it TJ! What is this doing in your room on your floor?!" Taj says kinda yelling.
TJ sits on the edge of the bed and says "Taj! Don't yell at me okay?! You know I'm 19! It=92s not all that unusual to have condom in my room okay?!"
Taj gives him a "I don't even buy that" look and says, "No, it's not unusual but what's it doing on your floor?"
"Okay since I don't have the time to fight about this with you I'm going to tell you! Tracy was here last night and SHE brought it trying to get me to go all the way with her. I refused and threw it on the floor! Now..don't tell Poppa T about this..I'll be in so much shit!" TJ says.
"You disobeyed him TJ! You almost did something way out of line with a girl you hardly know! And you want me to keep it from Poppa T?!" Taj says unbelievably.
"Yes, bro I do..Come on! Please!" TJ says.
"I am going to regret this so bad...I won't tell him if you don't have Tracy here no more! Okay?" Taj says.
TJ nods and says, "You got it.."
Then Taj walks out of the room kinda slamming the door.
TJ falls back on the bed running his fingers through his hair. How could he have been so stupid?! Well, he sure had enough time in his room to think about that...once again she had gotten him into a jam.
Suddenly there was a knock at the door..
"Come in.." TJ says.
Poppa T walks in and says, "Hey son. Can we talk?"
TJ nods throwing the cover off of him and sitting on the edge of the bed.
"I know I was kinda hard on you the other day. I just was upset that you disobeyed me like that. You usually aren't like that and it just got me wondering. So...I'm going to unground you on onc condition. No more midnight strolls to Tracy's house okay?" Poppa T says.
TJ says, "Okay Poppa T..."
Poppa T says, "Alright..breakfast is ready so when you're ready come on down." Then he closes the door and goes downstairs.
TJ went and took a shower and freshened up then went downstairs. He could see Taj was really staring him down as he joined everyone at the table. "It's about time! I thought we were all going to have to starve to death until you got up!" Janet says.
TJ just gives a kinda nervous laugh. "I was tired.." he says trying to avoid Taj's stare.
Then they all have breakfast together. After Breakfast TJ puts his plate up and says, "I'll be back later..."
"Where are you going?" Poppa T says.
"I'm...going to Tracy's house.." TJ says.
Poppa T kinda gives an aggravated sigh and just puts his plate up not saying anything.
TJ knew that he was starting to not like Tracy very much..but he had never met her! He walked out the door and got in his car driving to Tracy's house.
He knocked on the door and a few seconds later Tracy answered the door. "Hey!!"
TJ kinda smiles.."Hey, what are ya doin'?" he says.
"Nuthin'..I thought you were grounded..." Tracy says confused.
"My dad ungrounded me today. He said as long as I didn't make it habit going to your house in the middle of the night then things would be cool." TJ replies.
"Well, um...how come you came here? After last night I must seem like a real cold hearted bitch.." Tracy says walking all the way outside and shutting the door.
"No...I don't think you are like that at all Tracy. Things just started to go a little too fast....we just need to take it a little slower. I don't hold a grudge on anything you or I did last night..okay?" TJ asks.
Tracy grins..."Kiss me so I know everything is really cool..."
TJ laughs and grins too...then leans forward and kisses her softly..."How's that?"
Tracy grins taking one of his hands in her hand and says, "Lets go do something. Let's go to the mall or something. We don't have to buy anything we could just walk around looking around with each other..."
TJ kisses her hands and says, "Okay..maybe if you're a good girl then I'll get ya something too..heh"
Tracy laughs kissing him once more and says, "I'll be right back. I need to go get my purse." Then she runs inside and TJ goes and starts the car. After she gets in the car they head towards the mall.
Once they get there TJ takes her hand and they walk around the mall. Time seemed to just fly. They had such a good time and acted like a bunch of kids! Finally they got hungry though and stopped at one of the restaurants in the store
"Hah! Ooh my! I can't believe we just played tag in the Disney store!!! " Tracy says laughing hysterically!
TJ tries to sit down almost missing his chair cuz he is laughing so much! "Neither can I!"
He calms down enough to order their food though. "So you're having a good time?" TJ asks Tracy.
Tracy smiles, "A great time..I haven't had this much fun since the first time we met. "
They both eat their food and by then it was about 5 in the afternoon. "I should get home.." TJ says.
"Yeah me too..." Tracy says.
"Do you wanna come over tomorrow or something? I want you to meet my brothers. My dad will be gone he will be out for the day. I don't think it is the right time to meet him yet.." TJ says.
Tracy says "I'd love to! "
TJ walks her out to the car and says, "Do you want me to pick you up around 2?"
Tracy says,,"naah I'll just drive there myself. I'll probably need to run an errand for my parents anyway."
They arrive at her house and TJ says,,"Alright that's fine. I'll see you then...give me a kiss before you go..."
Tracy giggles and leans over and gives him an at least 5 minute kiss then says.."Bye." then goes in her house. She already had him begging....
TJ headed back home and walked in the house. Everyone was watching TV so he sat down with them and watched too.
"So guys what are you doin'?" TJ asks nervously.
Taj says, "Nothing....what were YOU doin?"
TJ kinda gives him a glare..."Nothing....just went to the mall with Tracy. That's all."
Taj just nods and continues to watch TV. TJ says, "Well I'll be upstairs if you need me.." then he goes upstairs and picks up his guitar and starts to play things that come to his head. Then he puts the guitar down and someone knocks at the door.
"Come in .." he says.
Michael walks through the door grinning, "Hey.."
"Uncle Mike!" TJ says getting up and hugging his uncle.
Michael laughs, "I'm glad to see you too!! I heard you playing out in the hall. It sounded really good."
TJ says, "I practice all the time..I love the new guitar!"
Michael grins sitting on the edge of the bed, "So...I hear that you've got a girl in your life now. The same one we talked about on the phone?"
TJ pulls up a chair by the bed and sits down.."Yeah ..same one."
Michael nods...TJ could tell he was going to get a lecture.."It must be pretty serious if you missed your curfew..."
TJ sighs..."Yeah...I think it is. I mean..I don't know really. When I'm with her Uncle Mike..everything else doesn't matter. But sometimes she talks me into doing things that normally I wouldn't do. Sometimes I'm not sure if I even wanted to do them. She kinda has a control of me...is that love?"
Michael kinda gives him a serious look, "Well TJ....you have to find that out yourself. You have to be real careful with girls now....I think you know this, but you might want to lay out some stuff to this girl so she knows what's up. You know? Don't go too far too fast or someone is going to get hurt...and it might end up being you."
TJ says, "But..Tracy...she makes me feel really good. I have never met a girl like her before. I don't think Poppa T really cares for her though. He's never even met her!"
"Well, maybe he should then. " Michael says, "If you feel that this girl is worth that much then have her come over and meet your father."
TJ says..."You're right....but I don't know.
"I'm only trying to help you out. I know how difficult girls can be when you're this age..." Michael says grinning.
TJ laughs and says, "Are you staying for a while?"
Michael says," I wish I could but I have to get home because Debbie needs to get some rest so I'm gonna watch Prince for a while. I'll see you soon though. If you need any advice or anything you know my number. "
Then he walks out the door. TJ wasn't sure what to do now...should he have Tracy meet his dad?
TJ listened to his radio for a while. He was trying to think of a way that Tracy could meet his dad with out all hell breaking lose. He figured he would just have his brothers meet her tomorrow when she came over then when Tito comes home have him meet her. Maybe if Taryll and Taj liked her they would back him up if something happened.
He wasn't too sure of that though. Taj seemed to be eyeing him constantly. Maybe he would just go talk with him or something. So he went downstairs but no one was there so he decided to try Taj's room. He walked up to the door and knocked.
"Who is it?" Taj calls.
"It's TJ. " TJ says.
"Come in..." Taj says not very enthusiastic.
TJ walks in and sees that Taj is on his bed reading. "Can we talk for a few minutes?" TJ asks.
Taj puts his book down and crosses his arms over his chest. "I suppose. What is it you want to talk to me about?" Taj says.
TJ pulls up a chair and turns it around backwards then kinda straddles it and says. "I wanna talk about Tracy and how you keep watching me like I am a 5 year old. It's starting to get to me."
Taj sighs and sits up, "What about it?" he says.
TJ says, "I'm not 5 years old Taj. I'm 19! I wish you would treat me like I was."
Taj says, "I am TJ..I am 24. Which means you are my little brother. It's my job to look over you and make sure you don't get hurt. I'm just afraid that this girl isn't going to be who you think she is. No one who REALLY cared for you would have moved so fast. I think you know this too. You just don't want to think that because you miss having a girl. I do too..but you just have to be patient. It's kind of the price we pay for choosing the career we have."
"I know I'm making the right decision. Maybe for some reason she felt pressured. Like she had to do what she did last night to impress me or something, and even though you are my big brother Taj, you can't watch my every move. I need some space too." TJ says.
Taj asks, "What is it about this girl that makes you like her so much?"
TJ says, "Her name is Tracy, and there are a lot of things. I mean she is beautiful, sweet, fun to be with. A lot of things..."
"Yeah sounds like a lot of things to me.." Taj says sarcastically.
"Well, she is going to come over tomorrow afternoon and meet you and Taryll. I want you to meet her first hand and see how she really is. Then you can judge her." TJ says.
"Alright, but I can't promise I'll like her. I'll give her a try though." Taj says.
TJ reaches across the chair and gives Taj a brotherly hand shake then says, "Thanks bro." Then he gets up and walks to the door. "What are you reading anyway?"
Taj laughs and picks up his book, "Hero Of Dreams, by Brian Lumley. It's pretty good..heh"
TJ grins and says, "cool..see ya." Then he walks out the door. He hears the front door shut and walks downstairs to see who it is.
" Hey son!" Poppa T says.
"Hey dad." TJ says. "How was your day?"
"Pretty good actually. What about yours?" Poppa T says.
"The same." Then he pauses and follows Poppa T as he goes and sits on the couch turning on the TV. "Listen, there's something I need to talk to you about."
Poppa T turns off the TV and faces him. "Yeah? Is everything okay?"
"Yeah I think so. That's why I want to talk to you. You see, I know that right now you aren't too hot on the idea of me seeing Tracy. I know right now your impression of her isn't all that great. So I want you to meet her and then truly judge her then."
Poppa T rests his head on his hand, "You really care about her huh?"
TJ nods, "Yes I think I do."
"Well, I'll wait until I meet her then. My father never really gave your mother, Dee Dee a chance. I don't want you to feel like you can't come to me about these things. So, when am I going to get to meet her?" Poppa T asks.
"Tomorrow," TJ answers. "She'll be here in the afternoon. Then when you come home from your business stuff then you can meet her."
Poppa T says, "Okay sounds great then."
TJ smiles and hugs his dad, "Thanks! I think I'm going to bed now. See you later." Then he runs up to his room and falls on his bed. Things were going pretty good so far.
He had hardly noticed that he fell asleep and when he woke up the next day at 10 he instantly started to get ready. Why was he so nervous? After he was done getting ready he went downstairs and fixed himself some cereal and sat at the table. He really did hope that things would go well today.
He sat there for a while eating and then Taryll came down and joined him. "So I hear the famous Tracy is coming today?" he says.
TJ says, "Yeah she is. I want you all to meet her."
Taryll takes a bite of cereal and says, "That's a good idea I suppose."
TJ says , "I hope it is." Then gets up and washes off his bowl and spoon. "Is Aunt J still here?"
Taryll nods because he has a mouthfull of cereal.
"Good." TJ says. Then he checks the clock...11..then goes upstairs and plays on his guitar a while. He wanted to make something for Tracy but he wasn't sure. Did she even know who he was?
That got him thinking a little. How come she had not even said a thing about him being a Jackson or anything? Did she even know? Maybe he would explain all that to her today.
Suddenly he heard someone scream, "TJ someone is at the door for you!"
TJ got up and went downstairs to the door. When he gets there he sees that it is Tracy. "Hey. You're early..heh"
Tracy grins, "Too early?"
TJ shakes his head and motions for her to come in, "Not too early."
Tracy walks in a bit shy, looking around and sees Taj and Taryll sitting on the couch.
TJ shuts the door and holds Tracy's hand. "Okay you two. This is my girlfriend Tracy." TJ says.
Taryll and Taj both walk over. Taryll puts out his hand and says, "I'm Taryll. Nice to meet you." Tracy shakes his hand with a grin. Then Taj does the same and says, "I'm Taj. I'm glad I finally get to meet you." Tracy returns the shake as well.
TJ says, "We're going to go talk about some things. Then we'll come back and you all can get to know each other. Then he gently leads Tracy to his room and shuts the door. "Tracy, I need to ask you something." TJ says.
Tracy smiles, "Go for it."
TJ grins still holding her hand and taking the other one as well, "Do you know who I am? I mean..do you know who my family is and stuff?" TJ says.
Tracy grins, "Yes, I do. But that's not why I'm your girlfriend TJ. I hope that you know that. That's why I haven't said anything about it. It's no big deal really...I mean it is..but..."
TJ cuts her off by saying," I understand, and thanks. You know, you're kinda different then a lot of girls.." he leans closer and gives her a soft kiss. "But I like that." He finishes.
Tracy grins blushing and says, "I really like you a lot too. I hope your brothers except me."
TJ says, "Just be yourself and they'll think you are great." Then they both go downstairs again and sit down.
Tracy trys to break the ice by saying, "So I hear you all play soccer. I used to play soccer a lot but when I moved I had to quit the team..."
Taj says, "Yeah we do. We think it is a great sport, but we also love baseball as well."
"Yeah that's what we grew up on. Our dad used to coach our team too." Taryll says.
TJ says, "We have our own team made up of some of our best friends. Maybe you could come see a game sometime. Or maybe we could all split into teams and you could join us in a game.Just for fun?"
Tracy smiles, "It sounds like a lot of fun. I just hope you guys aren't intimidated by a girl." She says kinda giggling.
Taj laughs, "No way! So what are you doin now? I mean like career wise and stuff."
"Well, I just got out of school so I'm looking at some colleges right now. I have a part time job at that dance club. I'm sure you saw what I do there..heh. When I get enough money I plan on going to a good college." Tracy says.
Taryll says, "Yeah you're a good dancer and singer. That's a great club too!"
TJ says, "I think you just liked the girls there.." then he grins slyly.
Tracy laughs, "Well, looks like you do too! You know, I'm only suggesting but I bet the club would be even more slammin' if you guys came and performed a little something for everyone."
ial" size="2"> Taj says, "Hmm..you think so? Well, it's just we wanna go there to have fun, and if we perform then people might be on our backs the whole time we are there."
Tracy says, "Naah. Most the people are pretty respective. They're just there to have fun and party. They may say, "Hey great show man!" or something but that's about it."
Taryll says, "We'll see. It's something we'd love to do but we'd have to talk it out with our dad."
Tracy says, "It's no big deal. Just an idea..heh"
Just then Janet comes through the door from a little jogging and says, "Hey you guys! Oh, company?"
TJ stands up pulling Tracy up with him and says, "Aunt J, this is my girlfriend Tracy."
Janet grins and shakes her hand. "Well, hi! I've been wanting to meet you! TJ seems to be pretty attatched."
Tracy blushes and grins, "Yeah. I think it's the same on both sides..heh."
Janet laughs, "Well, that's good. I just hope things go well for both of you."
Tracy smiles, "Thank you. That's really nice of you."
Janet smiles, "No problem. " she calls as she runs up the stairs to get changed and take a shower.
TJ looks at Tracy and says, "Thing going okay so far?"
Tracy nods, "Things are going great."
TJ kinda strokes her hair, " I just want you to feel comfortable here. I think Taryll and Taj really like you."
Tracy grins, " Yeah, it looks like it.
TJ says, "Well, lets sit back down." And pulls her towards the couch.
Taj says, "Tracy, do you have a computer at home?"
Tracy smiles, "No, I don't actually but I really want one! "
Taj laughs, "Well, how about we go get on my computer guys and we can show her around and maybe have a little bomberman competition!"
Taryll grins, "You're on!"
TJ says, "Aww, you guys know I'm gonna whoop your butt like I always do!"
Taryll says, "Not this time bud!"
Taj says, "okay come on..."
Then he walks up to his room and turns on the computer and connects the modem. "Should we log onto 3Tonline for a while you guys?" Taj asks.
Taryll says, "yeah go ahead. We haven't been there in awhile."
Taj logs on sees that they have a ton of messages to read. Everybody pulls up a chair around the computer and Taj tries to explain everything to Tracy.
"You wanna type some things? We could go into one of the chatrooms and
just say it's all of us here."
Tracy grins, "Um..okay!" Taj moves out of the way and Tracy pulls her chair up. Taj gets her into the chatroom and says, "Okay. Show us what you got..heh"
Instantly as they arrive in the chatroom a million names say, "Hey Taj!!" Tracy laughs and replies.."Hey you guys! This is all the guys
here. Plus me...I'm just a friend of theirs."
A name known as Theresa says, "Hey peeps, what are you all up to?"
Tracy replies, "We're just sitting around. It's a lazy day. What about you guys?"
This goes on for a while and the guys tell her what to type. Then suddenly TJ says, "Man, I'm hungry! Taryll, how about we all go out and get us something to eat. Like Taco Bell or something. Taj can stay here with Tracy and show her around. She looks pretty hypnotized by that screen..."
Tracy turns around, "Huh?"
TJ laughs, " see...heh "
Taryll says, "Alright, we'll take my car."
TJ gives Tracy a kiss on the cheek and says, "We'll be back in a few. Taj behave yourself! Heh"
Taj puts his hand up to his forehead and solutes him, "Yes sir!" then bursts out laughing.
Then TJ and Taryll head off to Taco Bell.
About 30 minutes later, Taryll and TJ came back and Taj walked down the stairs. Tracy had already went downstairs luckily. He didn't want to confront her after what just happened. His heart was racing and he was kinda shaking..how could he tell his brother?
Tracy ran up to TJ and gave him a hug and TJ hugged her back and said, "Dig in! We just got a little bit of everything since we weren't sure what everyone wanted." Taryll says.
Taj puts on a fake smile and dodges Tracy's eyes while getting himself something to eat and sitting down on the couch.
TJ laughs, "So did Taj behave himself?"
Tracy smiles, "Yeah , he did.."
TJ gets him and Tracy some food then they both sit down as well.
Taryll says, "Poppa T should be home before too long. "
Tracy says, "Great! I really want to meet the man who's brought up such fine boys! Heh"
After telling a bunch of childhood stories and talking about Poppa T they all finish eating. During all this though Taj was a little uncomfortable. He felt so bad..
Suddenly Poppa T walked in the door and sat down with a sigh, "Work ...work..work..heh"
TJ laughs, "Poppa T..this is Tracy."
Tracy puts her hand out..and Poppa T shakes it. "So you're Tracy huh?" he starts, "Are you enjoying it here?"
Tracy grins, "Yes, I am. The guys just finished telling me some stories..hehe They're great boys you should be proud."
Poppa T smiles, "Believe me, I am VERY proud."
Tracy says, "Well, you've done a great job bringing them up."
Poppa T says, "Well, thanks! Is Janet here you guys?"
Taryll says, "Yeah. She went upstairs to take a shower."
TJ says, "How about we play a video game you guys! Tracy, do you play?"
Tracy laughs, "Do I play? I am the video game queen mind you!"
Taryll says, "We'll just see about that!"
TJ grins, "You can't be the video game Queen because Taryll is..heh"
Taryll throws a pillow at him and laughs!
Poppa T says, "Oh my, I'm getting out of this!" then he walks up to his room.
Taryll hooks the Sony Playstation in and hands Tracy a controller. "Show me what you got!"
Tracy giggles and plays against Taryll.
Then Janet comes down and sits on the couch next to Taj and kinda bumps him with her shoulder, "Hey, why you so glum?"
Taj gives another fake smile and says, "I'm not glum just...tired."
Janet says, "Oh, I see." Then she gets out her nail polish and does her nails watching them play video games.
TJ says, "Bro! She beat you! Oh my gosh!"
Tracy laughs humming the tune to "We Are The Champions."
Taryll says, "That was just luck! I challenge you to a rematch!"
Tracy grins, "Bring it on!"
They play another match and Taryll wins this time. He throws his hands up in the air and says, "Whoo! Ain't nuthin' but a thang!"
Tracy bursts out laughing and hands TJ the control. TJ says, "Hey, Taj. You wanna play? You haven't said anything for the past 15 minutes."
Taj says, "No, that's okay. I'm just gonna watch. Actually I think I'll just go up to my room and read or something. See ya guys."
Tracy says, "I'm sure Taj could do some damage to you all. He's got a lot of things hidden in that quiet soul of his...see ya Taj..."
Taj cringes and Janet sees his expression.
TJ and Taryll get into heavy combat hardly hearing anything she just said, and TJ wins this time! "No, rematches bro' !"
Taryll says, " Like always, I let you win!"
TJ says, "Whatever!"
Tracy laughs, "You all are just plain crazy.."
TJ giggles and sits on the couch. "Let's watch some TV for a while." Then he turns off the playstation and turns on the TV. Taryll gets on the couch too.
Janet gets up and walks to Taj's room a little worried. She knocks on his door..."Who is it..?" Taj answers.
"It's your Aunt J." Janet replies.
Taj says, "Come in.."
Janet walks in and sits at the edge of Taj's bed, "So, are you going to tell me what is going on?" she says.
Taj says, "Nothing is going on."
Janet kinda smiles, "You've always been a bad lier, Taj."
Taj looks up at her and Janet can see the worry in his eyes. "Aunt J, I am in such a fix.."
Janet moves closer to him and says, "Tell me all about it."
Taj sits up on his bed, "Well...say you had a friend, and you had known this friend all your life. He just met a girl that he thinks is so right for him. He leaves for one second and that girls makes moves on you, but you refuse to do anything with her. Would you have betrayed your friend, and should you tell him?"
Janet looks at him worried, "Well, if you refused then you didn't betray anyone. She would be the one being unfaithful because she made the moves, and it might be a good idea to tell this friend because he doesn't need a girl like this. "
Taj focuses his eyes on his hands and says, "Aunt J...that friend is TJ, and the girl is Tracy...."
Janet says, "So you're saying that Tracy made moves on YOU?"
Taj says, "Yes. I feel so bad..because I know TJ really likes her.."
Janet says, "Well, what did she do? I mean are you sure she wasn't just being a little flirty or something, but not meaning anything by it?"
Taj rolls his eyes, "Oh , she DEFINATELY meant something by it. See, at first I was showing her around the computer while Taryll and TJ went to get some food. She seemed to be really facinated by it. I every once and I while I would feel her hand brush against my leg, but I didn't think anything of it. Eventually though, it started to get repetitive and she didn't move her hand at all. I asked her politely to take her hand off, but she wouldn't." Taj says all this remembering everything.
Janet says, "Go on.."
Taj continues, "Well, then she started to run her fingers up my back....and run her fingers through my braids. I gently pulled her hands away and she quite for awhile. Then she started it again...and I said a little more sternly for her to stop, but that only added to her persistance. She took my hands away from the computer and started to kiss me all over. I didn't want to hurt her or nothing so I tried to push her away gently still, but she kept on. She kissed my neck and kept saying, "Oh Taj, just this once..just one time. I won't tell I promise.." Then she..um.." Taj gets a little embarassed..
Janet says, "Then she what? It's okay..don't feel uncomfortable.."
Taj says, "Then she took off her shirt, and I pushed her off of me and handed her shirt back to her. I told her that she was disrespecting TJ and she needed to get a grip. Then she just laughed and went downstairs...I'd say that was a little more than just flirting. And another thing...I promised I wouldn't tell anyone but I'm worried now...I found a condom in TJ's room on the floor and TJ told me that Tracy tried to get him to have sex with him. That doesn't sound like a girl that is going to respect him for who he is..."
Janet says, "Listen, don't worry about this. I'll be right back." Then she walks to the top of the stairs and says, "Tracy, come here girl. Let me show you something." Then she flashes a smile.
TJ says, "Go ahead. Probably baby pictures or something..heh"
Tracy laughs kissing him on the cheek and going upstairs. Janet leads Tracy into her room and shuts the door. Suddenly her mood changes and Janet says, "What the hell do you think you are you doing to TJ?!"
Meanwhile Taj walks downstairs and gets him something to drink and sits at the table.
Tracy says," Huh? What are you talking about?"
"Don't try and play innocent with me. I know what you did to Taj today and I know some other things that you have been trying to do to TJ. I think you need get of TJ's life before you hurt him too bad."
Tracy says, "Oh come on! You can't tell me what I can and can't do with TJ! He's of legal age and so am I! As for Taj, he's just a little baby who's probably never even touched a girl before! He needs to grow up."
Janet getting pretty mad now says, "Taj is a very well brought up young man and he knows his bounderies! Even if he had or hadn't touched a girl, which is none of our business, he wouldn't have even thought about touching a dirty hag as yourself!"
Tracy's mouth drops open and she says, "Dirty hag?! Whatever! You need to stay in your own business and leave me and TJ alone!"
Meanwhile TJ walks up to Taj at the table and sits down. "So what's up?"
Taj looks at TJ as if he wants to say something but he doesn't. "Nothing.."
TJ says, "I can see right through you. Something is up."
Taj looks at him again, "Listen, I don't think you should see Tracy anymore."
TJ gives him a puzzled look, "Huh? What do you mean?"
Taj stirs his finger in his drink nervously, "Tracy isn't right for you. She's just gonna break your heart. TJ, today while you and Taryll were gone she made a move on me..."
TJ says, "Oh come on..she did not.."
Taj says, "I wouldn't lie when it comes to something like this. I am serious.."
TJ cuts him off, "Taj you're just jealous! There is no way that Tracy would make moves on you!"
Taj says, "I am not at all jealous. I just don't want you to get hurt. I told Janet about it too..and I think she is talking to Tracy..."
TJ says, "What?!" and runs upstairs to where they are at.
He walks in just in time to hear Janet say, "I don't have to leave you alone! You are the one that needs to leave things a lone! Now, leave!"
"Hey! What is going on?!" TJ says.
Janet turns around surprised and says, "TJ there are some things you need to know.."
Tracy runs up to him putting on a front and acting all scared. "Oh TJ, I didn't know what to do. She just started yelling at me telling me all these things that Taj told her and I .."
TJ kisses her forehead and says, "Shh..it's okay."
Tito walks in and says, "What the hell is going on?! I can hear you all screaming in my room."
Janet says, "Tracy here has a lot of things to hide and she's not at all what she pretends to be. I don't think that TJ needs to be with her.."
Tito looks kinda confused and says, "Do you know what she is talking about?"
TJ says, "No, Taj lied to her because he is jealous that I have a girlfriend! None of what he said was true!"
Janet says, "Not even the part about Tracy trying to get you to have sex with her, TJ?!"
Tito looks at TJ surprised, "TJ, I think you need to stop seeing Tracy until things get worked out.."
TJ says, "NO way! I can't believe you all are doing this! Come on Tracy!"
He practically drags her down the stairs and outside and into his car. He puts the keys in the ignition and peels out of the drive away and down the road. He finally stops when they arrive at the lake.
Meanwhile back at the house Poppa T sits on the couch confused. What should he do? He decided to call up a Personal Investigator to do a back ground check on this girl Tracy.
Taj still hasn't moved from the table and is feeling very down. Taryll walks over to him, "Taj, don't feel bad about this. It is not you're fault and it would have happened sooner or later. You did the right thing, and I don't think you are lying." Taryll says.
Taj puts his face in his hands, "TJ doesn't think that though. He thinks I'm jealous of him, and now he is off with Tracy and who knows what is going to happen. I started all this madness! So it IS my fault Taryll!" Taj says with anger and on the verge of crying.
Taryll pats his brother on the back, "Don't worry Taj. I'm sure thing are gonna work out."
There is silence in the car and the only thing that can be heard is the water splashing against the shore from the cool summer wind. The silence is broken when TJ gets out of the car and sits on the top of the hood.
Tracy joins him and takes his hand, "TJ, If you want to be mad at me you can. It's my fault all this is happening. I didn't do any of the things that everyone says I did though. Can't you see that they are trying to break us apart?"
TJ tightens his grip in Tracy's hand. She was so beautiful. He couldn't see how she could have even thought of doing the things everyone was saying.
"I know Tracy. I don't believe anything they are saying, but I can't believe that Taj would lie like that to me? I suppose he's jealous..but I just don't see why he is doing this!" TJ says obviously upset.
Tracy runs her fingers up his bare arms and kisses his shoulder. "TJ, I really am sorry for everything I have done. It seems like I just keep getting you in trouble.." she kisses him on his shoulder this time, "I don't see how you could still love me.."
TJ closes his eyes. He knew that he was in the same position that he was that night in his bedroom, but would he go through with it? Maybe he would. Just to get revenge on his father and on Taj. If they didn't want him to see her, after they found out he had sex with her that would really make them mad. But was revenge the answer? Should he have listened to Taj more?
His thoughts were broke as Tracy slipped her warm hands up his stomach and kisses behind his ear softly. That was his weak spot and instantly the adrenaline in his body shot through him! TJ kinda jumped and shivered...
"Hmm..do you like that TJ?" Tracy asked, almost in a whisper.
TJ, with his eyes still closed just nods. It was taking all his will power not too lose his mind.
Tracy kissed his ear once more and started to take his shirt off. She was surprised when TJ opened his eyes and looked into hers. Signaling that he wanted her too. She took it off and was awe struck.
It was obvious he worked out, and the truth was revealed by his muscular chest. It wasn't too muscular but just right. Since it was dark outside now the moon and water seemed to reflect off of his skin, and his eyes sparkled.
TJ reached out and stroked Tracy's arm and felt her quiver beneath his touch. He kinda grinned and then ran his fingers up her shoulder and traced her collar bone. Tracy's closed her eyes kinda leaning her head back and TJ moved closer and kissed her neck softly.
She smelled really good and her skin was kinda cool. He could feel her heart pounding in her chest. Was it nervousness or excitement? Or maybe even both? He moved his lips up her neck and kissed her cheek and whispered, "Are you sure?"
Tracy barely able to speak just nodded and reached out and ran her hand down the middle of his back. TJ couldn't take it anymore and realized his mind was made up. He was going to do this.
He ran his fingers up Tracy's waist and slipped her shirt off. Tracy opened her eyes to make sure TJ wasn't showing any signs of holding back then kissed him softly on the lips. All the while, TJ slipped off her skirt as she slipped off her sandals.
TJ slipped his shoes and socks off as well, and felt Tracy reach down and take his pants off. Then TJ ran his fingers through Tracy's hair taking her barrette out and letting her hair fall to her shoulders.
Without knowing it they found their self totally undressed on top of his car. Both of their hearts beating rapidly , anxious for what they both knew was about to happen. They stayed a moment just looking into each others eyes.
Suddenly the silence was broken, "TJ I can't do this..."
TJ looks at her strangely, "What are you talking about?"
Tracy suddenly changing her attitude and almost looking frightened says, "TJ, there is so much you don't know about me. I wish I could tell you everything but I can't now." She starts gathering her closes and putting them on as she speaks.
TJ confused says, "Tracy, what are you saying? Are you saying that what Taj said is true?"
Tracy now crying as she finishes putting on her clothes says, "Yes...no..I mean.in a way maybe. It's so confusing TJ! "
TJ pulls on his clothes too and hops off the top of the car. "Tracy I can't believe you did this to me! So , what do you mean there is so much I don't know about you ? Is there another guy too?"
Tracy gets off the car too and looks at TJ with tears streaming down her eyes, "TJ, you can hate me if you want. I know what I did was wrong and I'm willing to take the consequences. I don't think you'll ever understand why I did it. Maybe it's for the best because I don't want to hurt you more than I already have."
TJ about in tears himself says, " I don't know what to think about you Tracy. All this time I trusted you, and I defended you from my family. I just can't see how you could do this to me..or to Taj even!"
Tracy cries, "I have to go!" Then she runs off.
TJ gathers all his stuff and gets back in his car and drives back home. As he drives he tries to run everything that just happened back through his head. Maybe he was missing something here?
He found it odd how suddenly Tracy had just become a whole different person. She had always been a pretty forward person not afraid of anything it seemed. Then suddenly she turned into someone who seemed almost sweet, innocent, and frightened. Not at all the Tracy he first met.
Now he had to go home and apologize to Taj. He felt so bad now because everyone was right and he was wrong. How could he tell everyone what Tracy just told him?
He pulled up to his house and shut the car. Slowly he walked up to the door and walked in glumly.
Tito surprised looks up and says, "Son! Where have you been?"
TJ looking really depressed says, "With..Tr.." He stops. He didn't even want to say her name. "I was somewhere it doesn't matter."
Tito says, "TJ, I think you might want to read this..." he hands him a piece of paper and TJ reads it. It read:
Name: Tracy Sims
Age: 18
DOB: 2/22/80
Weight: 120
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown
Information Found: Lives with her mother and father. They were given a loan for their house issued by Danny Dominguez A.K.A "Chico" Did some background research and found he is convicted of many crimes. More research showed that this loan was illegal and he had Tracy doing his dirty work for him. The plan, to destroy TJ's image.
She was to create an image that TJ would like and pull him from his family. If she did this they could keep the house with no problem. We did some background work on Tracy and her family before all this and found out that they had many problems with homes in the past. Money was a big problem for them. Tracy maintained good grades and has never been into any trouble. Not a girl that would do this on a regular basis.
TJ stops and looks up at Tito. "So...does this mean that she did all this just to keep her family in the house?"
Poppa T says, "I'm afraid so.."
TJ shoves the piece of paper in his pocket and says, "I'll be back later!!" Then he runs out the door. He had to find her and talk to her about all this. He was worried because if all this was true. She risked losing her home and everything to tell him what she did today. He decided he would go to her house and see if she was there.
Meanwhile Poppa T is pacing the floor. What did TJ think he was going to do? If this Danny guy was all he was known to be TJ could be getting himself into some huge trouble.
He picked up the phone and called Michael.
"Hello?" he answered.
"Hey Mike. This is Tito..I need your help." Tito says.
"Okay..is everything okay?" Michael replies.
Tito explains everything to him and Michael says, "Okay I'll go and try to look for him..." then hangs up.
TJ arrives at Tracy's house and turns off the car. Suddenly he hears a scream and know that it is Tracy! He runs in the house and sees Tracy holding a gun and pointing it at an unfamiliar man. He had a suspicion it might be Danny.
Tracy heard him come in looked at him from the corner of her eye. Not taking her eyes off of Danny. "TJ, get out of here! You don't need to be here!"
TJ tries to think fast, "Tracy, don't do this. It won't solve anything."
Suddenly he hears Danny say, "Well, well, if it isn't the Jackson boy. Coming to save the day are you? I almost had TJ. Almost...but Tracy here got weak and started having feeling for you and.."
"Shut up!" Tracy yells, "Leave him alone or I'll shoot you! I promise I will! You've destroyed my families reputation and you won't touch his! I don't care what people think of me but you will NOT destroy anyone else!" She starts to cry and suddenly TJ sees a bruise on her right arm and oddly feels a rage growing inside him for Danny.
TJ steps a little closer and says, "Tracy, please. I understand all that has gone on and I don't want you to do something that will change the person you really are. You don't want to do this."
In almost a whisper Tracy says, "Yes I do...I very much do. He's taken so many things away from me. He's ruined my whole life and he deserves to pay for it."
"Then let him pay for it in Jail.." TJ says calmly, "This is his easy way out. If you shoot him the pain will be fast. If he goes to jail he'll have to think about all he did for the rest of his life, and you won't have a burden on you're shoulders for the rest of yours."
TJ reaches out and takes the gun. Tracy seems to be in almost a shock mode and buries her head in TJ's chest.
Suddenly TJ hears a gun being loaded and a bunch of men start coming up the steps to the house. TJ yells, "Where are you're parents Tracy?!"
Tracy looks at him confused and says, "Danny doesn't know but they left to one of my relatives house last night.."
TJ says, "Okay good..come on!" Then he grabs her hand and starts running towards the back of the house. He doesn't see a back door. "Damn!" he says. Then he spot a window and opens it. "You first..come on.." Tracy goes through the window and TJ jumps out too.
When they hit solid ground TJ grabs her arm again and he looks around the house to see if he can get to his car. Nope too late. They shot the tires. TJ stopped to think. "Tracy, I know you are confused right now, but listen to me okay? We are going to run and we're going to keep running until we find a safe spot. If you get tired push yourself further. Got it?!"
Tracy nods and says.."Got it.."
TJ says, "Okay..when I say go, we start running."
He peeks around the corner and sees one man start walking into the house.."Okay go!" Him and Tracy, hand in hand, start running. They keep running until both their hearts are about to explode. They walk into an alley and hide behind some boxes that are there.
Out of breath TJ says, "I don't think they know where we are at now."
Tracy out of breath too says, "Why did you do that TJ? I've shamed you.."
TJ kinda catching his breath pulls out the sheet of paper and hands it to Tracy. " My did had someone do some research on you. I know all about it and how you did this to save your family..."
Tracy reads it and says, "TJ, I...I hated doing everything that Danny made me do. He said if I didn't do it that he would take our home away and take what was innocent from me. He's sick TJ, and even now neither you nor I is safe"
TJ runs his fingers through his hair, "Tracy, you really had me going, and I don't know if I could ever feel the same about you, but we have to forget that for now. We have to think about saving your life and your family as well."
Tracy bursting into tears says, "TJ....I love you! I really do! It was so hard for me to do the things I did to Taj..I was so hoping that he would resist..and thank God he did! Then tonight ....at the lake, I was hoping you would too, but you didn't. I didn't want you to do something that you would regret and would hurt you later, so I had to stop it. I never wanted to hurt you TJ, and the more I started to know you, the more it hurt me to do the things I did..."
TJ feeling a lot of guilt and betrayal in his heart says.."Tracy..I..."
Suddenly TJ sees Tracy's eyes get wide and her face turn pale. Then he feels a gun pressed against his back. "Don't move pretty boy.." He sees one of Danny's guys pulls Tracy's arms behind her back and pull her away from them.
Tracy yells, "Don't touch him!"
Danny looks up at Tracy and says to his man, "Shut the slut up!"
Another man slaps Tracy across the face and Tracy screams in pain.
"Leave her alone!" TJ screams.
Danny laughs an evil laugh and says, "On your knees boy!" Then he kicks the back of TJ's legs making him fall to his knees. Then he brings TJ's arms behind his head still pointing the gun at him.
"Okay, here's the deal. I sent Tracy to get a job done for me but she failed. So I guess I'll have to do this myself! "
Tracy fights Danny's man and tries to get away but doesn't get anywhere.
"TJ..TJ...such an innocent boy you are. I bet you feel like you have everything in the world you ever needed. Money...girls...and so much more. I've decided you don't deserve all that. Maybe you should get a little taste of what it's like not to be so lucky.." Danny says.
TJ says, "Just because my last name happens to be Jackson doesn't mean I've had it easy. I've gone through a lot of.."
Danny knees TJ in the stomach , "Shut up while I'm talking!"
TJ falls to the ground holding his stomach...
"As I was saying.." Danny says, " You need to see what that is like. So by sending Tracy to do my work I hoped in kicking you out of your family and putting you on the streets alone. Didn't work though..so I have come up with another plan. You are going to tell me the address of our Uncle Michael's Mansion. I'll get him to tell me where you keep all your money.."
TJ sits back up and says gritting his teeth, "Never..."
Danny bends down and takes TJ's face in his hand, "What did you say? Sounded like you said never..."
TJ , his heart racing , says, "You heard me right Chico.."
Danny with rage punches TJ in the jaw! Okay lets try this again. "Tell me the address now!"
TJ's jaw was throbbing and he could hardly move it. He felt something trickle down his lip and immediately realized it was blood. With all his strength he said, "I'm not telling....you.."
Danny rose his gun to strike him and Tracy screamed, "Stop it Danny! Stop it!"
Danny turned around and faced his gun at Tracy, "You want me to stop it huh? " he started to pull the trigger and in almost instinct TJ stood up in front of Danny and sickening shot filled the air...
TJ fell limp to the ground and Tracy started to scream hysterically. "OH my God! TJ!!"
Suddenly Tracy was set free as someone came behind and grabbed Danny's man and beat him to the ground. The person came into the light and she realized it was Taryll. "Are you okay?" he says.
Tracy can't answer she is in too much shock.
Taj is seen too and him and Taryll both try and control the few men there. Suddenly a familiar voice rings through alley, "HEY!" it was Michael.
Danny turns around trying to make out who it is.."Oh..Michael! Just the man I wanted to see!"
Michael runs up to him and sees TJ laying on the ground. Quickly he knocks the gun out of Danny's hand and says, "Listen here you damn punk! You better hope TJ will be okay! Because if he isn't...I PROMISE you I will dedicate my life to making YOUR life miserable. That's not a threat..it's a promise...and don't test me!" Then he punches Danny in the face and Danny tries to hit him back. Michael dodges and hits him once more causing him to fall to the ground.
Instantly lights are seen and a siren is heard. Police officers run down the alley checking it out.
Tracy runs over to TJ and leans over him crying.."TJ...answer me..please.."
TJ kinda turns his head swallowing..and holding his wound with this right hand. Tracy sees the wound and tries to open his shirt to do something. TJ shakes his head and takes his other hand and strokes her cheek. Then he says in separated sentences, "Do you want....*groan* to know what I was going to say before they got here...*groan*...
Tracy says, "No...please don't tell me..I won't be able to take it.."
TJ kinda smiles trying to hide his pain, "I was going..to...say..that I.."
Tracy says, "Don't say it TJ..you don't mean it..you don't.."
TJ continues, "....love you."
Tracy bends down and kisses him on the cheek one of her tears falling onto his cheek.
An ambulance is heard and two EMTs come over and pull TJ onto a stretcher. Taryll and Taj run over to them.
"Is he going to be okay?!" Taj says frantically.
One of the EMTs respond and say, "We don't sir. We'll have to see when we get him to the hospital."
They load him into the ambulance and take him to the hospital.
Meanwhile the police arrest Danny and take him to jail along with his men. They thank Michael and offer him and everyone else a ride to the hospital.When they get there they are told to sit in the waiting room and wait to see what happens.
Tracy can't even look anyone in the eyes without crying. She decides to just hide her face in her hands and wait.
After what seemed like forever a nurse came out. Now Tito was there and he says, "So...is he alright?"
The nurse looks at some papers and says. "Amazingly...yes he is. You see there was a gun stuck in the pocket of his shirt. When the bullet hit him it hit the handle of this gun and slowed the bullet down. The bullet went in about an inch but didn't do any permanent harm. He could probably go home tonight as long as he keeps the bandage on keeps the wound clean."
Tracy starts crying again but this time almost in happiness. That gun was the same gun that he had taken away from her and she had totally forgot about it. He hadn't even thought to use it..or maybe he didn't want to..either way she loved TJ even more for this.
Then the nurse says, "He said he wants to see Tracy..."
E-mail Kandi at kandi@iland.net