Part Three
 
 
Mary sat in the kitchen drinking her third cup of coffee.The kids were back 
at school and Chad was almost out of her life.Mary sighed as she got up from 
the table.The bus would be there soon to pick up the kids. Christmas and New 
Years had come an gone without Mary hearing a word from Paul.She had tried to 
call his cell phone number several times with no answer.She had just given 
up.Oh well it just wasent meant to be she kept telling herself even thoe her 
heart was breaking.Mary ran her fingers through her dark hair as she walked 
to the stairs and called the kids down to breakfast.She had to be in court to 
sign the divorce papers by nine.Mary wanted to hurry and get it all over 
with.Mary had finished her book and sent it to a publisher in New York a few 
days after New Years day.She hoped that maybe they would like it.Mary had 
been hoping to hear from the local newspaper about a job she had applied 
for.Tommy ran down the steps laughing as Katie chased after him."Beat ya 
again!"he said teasing his little sister.Katie laughed as she sat down to 
breakfast.Mary smiled as she poured them some juice.Both kids seemed to have 
setteled into there new life without there father.Tommy looked at his mother 
as she served there breakfast."Whare are we going to live after the house is 
sold?"he asked.Mary sighed "We will move to an apartment most likly."Mary 
said.Mary hated having to sell the house but it was part of her agreement 
with Chad.Besides Mary would need the money so in away it would be a 
blessing,She just knew it would be hard on the kids.Chad had seen the kids 
once sense they had separated.He had came over on Christmas day after mass 
and taken them to his folks house for a few hours.He was very polite to 
Mary's surprise.He even asked Mary if she needed anything before he took the 
kids.Mary looked at the clock as she husseled the kids to hurry and eat.Mary 
had to admitt that even thoe Paul hadent called she was still happy in a 
way.She felt so alive and free.She had her two kids and her writing.She said 
and did what ever she wanted to do.The kids got up and started to gather 
there book bags and lunches to head out to the bus stop.Mary kissed them at 
the door.She watched them walk down the street to the bus stop.Tommy stoped 
at the end of the walk and waved to her as she stood on the porch.Mary blew 
him a kiss as he turned and walked away.Mary shivered as she pulled her robe 
closed around herself.she saw the mail man making his way down the sidewalk 
and decided to wait an get the mail before she went back inside.The mail man 
handed her a stack of bills and letter.Mary looked at the thick envlope there 
was no return address on it.Mary found that a bit odd as she opened the 
letter.Mary's heart skiped a beat when the picture of her and Paul standing 
in front of the statue of Liberty fell out of the envlope.Mary walked into 
the foyer and closed the door.She turned over the photo and looked at the 
back.Paul had written on the back'When we belonged to each other for a 
day.'Mary felt the tears coming as she walked to the living room and sat down 
on the couch.She pulled the paper from the envloped and began to read the 
letter that Paul had written.
Dear Mary After everything has been said and done.You have made it clear to 
me that you want to be with Chad.I would say I understand,but I can't lie.I 
love you so very much and it kills me inside to think of you with a man who 
is so cold and hatful to you.I just can't go on thoe being your secret 
lover.I want to shout to the world that we are in love.Sense you have made 
your choice I must tell you that I will not try an contact you anymore.My 
heart can't take the pain.I hope you know I will always love you and wish we 
were together.As I write this I just realized that we have never spent a 
whole night together.Just a few hours of you in my arms will never be enough 
for me.I want to have you all or I want nothing of you.I hope you 
understand.I also hope you are happy with Chad. 
Thank you for the one day you allowed me to love you. Paul.
 
Mary let the tears fall droping on the paper.She knew Paul was the one who 
had sat her free and now he was gone from her life.She looked at the clock as 
she clutched the letter to her chest.She walked up the stairs to dress for 
her day in court she realized as she pulled her dress over her head that it 
was January 20th."Happy Birthday."Mary whispered into the air.
 
Paul stood in the large ball room celbrating his 50th Birthday with his 
friends and family.Gene had surprised him by throwinng him a huge party.He 
had even flowen Paul's folks in.Paul put his best face foward.He had held off 
sending the letter to Mary wanting to hold on to her in some way.He had sent 
it a few days ago.He now felt like it was over.He thought he should feel some 
kind of releif,still his heart was broke and his arms acked to hold her once 
more.Paul smiled as Lisa the model he had been dating before Mary had entered 
his life came up and grabed him around the waist."Hows my Birthday boy!"she 
said.Paul turned to look at her.She was gorgus.She was tall and well built 
with blue eyes and a mane of long blond hair.Any man would love to have her 
by there side"I'm doing good."he said trying to sound happy.Lisa laughed as 
she kissed his cheek."Come on Paulie!You can do better then fine!"she purred 
as she kissed him again.Paul felt her arms around his neck.He pulled her away 
saying."Come on Lisa take it easy."Lisa put her hands on her hips."Whats 
wrong with you?"She asked with anger in her voice."Nothing.I'm just 
tired."Paul said."Ya whatever.I need a drink."Lisa said as she walked away 
from him and made her way to the bar.Paul watched her walk away.She had been 
staying at the house with him sense new years eve.Paul thought she was better 
then being alone.Gene walked over to Paul and put his hand on his 
shoulder."Well do ya feel like an old man?"he said teasing him.Paul 
laughed."No not really!After all you are always going to be older then 
me!"Paul said.Gene rolled his eyes."Yes well you have a point there."Gene 
said.Gene narrowed his eye's as he looked at his old friend Gene knew 
something had been bothering him.Paul hadent been himself sense the New York 
trip."You and Lisa seem to be geting along well.I think she has told everyone 
here tonight that you two are living together now."Gene said.Paul let out a 
small laugh."Yes well she is better then living alone I guess."Paul 
said."Dama Paul you almost sound like you really don't want her there."Paul 
closed his eye's as he thought about Mary."I don't want her there."Paul said 
flatly as he walked away from Gene.Gene watched as Paul made his way across 
the room to one of the tables.Paul sat down in a chair and watched his party 
going on around him.He thought of the one thing that was missing in his 
life....."Mary" he said under his breath.
 
Mary looked around the huge apartment."It has a wonderful Cathlic school 
right down the street.I know you had said that was importend when you called 
my office."the realastate lady was saying.Mary nodded as she walked into the 
large kitchen.She knew she wouldent be cooking much which was ashame the 
kitchen was wonderful.The realastate lady followed her."I think my children 
and I will be very happy here."Mary said as she turned around.The lady 
smiled."Good then you'll take it."The lady said.Mary nodded "Yes.I'll sign 
the papers whenever you have them ready."Mary said."Well welcome to New York 
City.Ms Peterson."the woman said as she shook hands with Mary.Mary smiled at 
her."Will you sign my book?"the lady asked shyly as she shook Mary's hand."Of 
course!"Mary said as she watched the woman reach into her bag for a copy of 
the best seller 'Runaway'.she handed it to Mary.Mary proudly looked at the 
cover.It had been six months sense she had sent it to the publisher they 
loved it.Now she was on a whirl wind tour around the contrey of 
bookstores.The book was flying off the shelfs people loved it.Mary had 
decided to move to New York to be close to her publisher.They had asked her 
to write anoher book and Mary had quickly agreed."Are you here to do an 
apperence at a bookstore?"Asked the lady.Mary nodded as she signed her name 
in the front of the book."Yes,then back to St Louis to pick up my kids.We 
will be moving in as soon as possible."Mary said."We can sign the paper work 
tomrow if you like."The lady said as Mary handed the book back to her.Mary 
smiled "That would be wonderful.Thank you."she said."Can I ask you 
something?"the lady asked as Mary turned to leave.Mary looked at 
her."Yes."Mary said."Who is P.S.?"the lady wanted to know.Mary smiled she had 
heard this quistion in every iterveiw sense the book had took off."Just a 
friend"Mary said.The woman nodded and laughed "I knew you would say that."the 
woman said."I dident think people would be so curious about the dedication of 
my book."Mary said as she headed towards the door.Mary steped onto the 
elavator and looked around.She had plenty of money to take care of herself 
and her children.Her book was a best seller.She had made her way on her 
own.Chad was just a bad memory now.Mary waited as the elavator stoped on the 
ground floor.She steped off the elavator and walked out of the building.She 
looked around the city that was her new home.It was bittersweet for her to 
move to New York.She wished that Paul were there to share this wonderful time 
with her.She had respected his wishes and not tried to contact him.She 
thought of him as the reason for the freedom she was now able to enjoy.She 
would always love him with all her heart.Mary walked to her waiting limo.She 
slid in as Terry her personal assistent was hanging up her cell phone."Well 
did you take the place?"Terry asked as she pushed her glasses back up on her 
nose.Mary smiled."Yes. now I'am a New Yorker!"Mary said in fake New York 
accent."Great!Now we can get over to the book store."Terry said.
 
Paul waited on the doorstep of his ex wifes house.Pam answered the door."Hey 
Paul,Evan's almost ready.Make yourself at home."she said as she walked him 
into the living room.Paul sat down on the couch to wait for Evan.Something 
caught his eye.He looked at the book laying on the coffee table.He picked it 
up and looked at the photo on the back.His heart skiped a beat when he saw 
Mary's picture staring back at him.Paul fliped the book open and read the bio 
on the auther.'Mary Peterson lives in St.Louis with her two children and is 
working on her second book.'was all that it said.Paul heard Evan shout as he 
ran into the room."Daddy!"he said as he jumped into his lap.Pam watched from 
the doorway.Paul sat the book back on the table as he hugged Evan."Are you 
reading romance novels now."she asked him in a teasing voice.Paul laughed "No 
I just thought I knew the auther."Paul lied.Pam nodded "I wish you did.I 
would love to meet her."Pam said.Paul forced a smile as he felt his heart 
twist."Sorry I don't know her.Is the book any good?"he said.Pam rolled her 
eyes."Good its great!Everybody is talking about it!I'm surprised Lisa hasent 
read it."Pam said.Paul laughed .I don't even think Lisa can read he thought 
to himself as he got up to leave.Paul and Evan said good bye to Pam and 
headed to the car.Paul started the car.Well now I know she has wrote her 
book.I wonder if she is happy.he thought to himself as he backed out of the 
drive way. 
Mary stood in Katie's new bedroom unpacking a box of stuffed animals.She was 
handing them one by one to Katie to put on the shelfs.She had her hair tied 
back in pony tail and was wearing her bib overalls.She knew she looked a 
mess.The kids were helping as much as they could to get unpacked Mary had 
promised them that they could go to Central Park to see the fire works if 
they got there rooms unpacked.The phone rang just as Mary was pulling the 
last stuffed bear from the box."Tommy!would you get the phone for mommy."Mary 
shouted as she pushed a peice of stray hair behind her ear.Mary just knew it 
was Matt her publisher.Tommy came in carrying the cordless phone."Mom its 
Matt."Tommy said as he handed her the phone.Mary smiled."Thanks sweetie."Mary 
said as she put the phone to her ear.'Happy fourth of July!'Matt said.Mary 
laughed 'Same to you.'she said.'Hey whats your plans for after the fourth?' 
he asked.Mary grouned.she knew what ever he would say next involved her 
traveling some whare.'Matt no!What ever it is no!I'm staying home for 
awhile,Besides my Birthday is coming up and I want to spend it with my 
kids.'Mary protested.'Mary hold on! It will only be for a few days.'Matt 
said.Mary sighed as she looked at Katie puting her toys away.'Oh Matt!Please 
I just got moved.Can I have a little time to catch my breath?'she said.'Mary, 
Dream works called about making Runaway into a movie.They want you to fly out 
to L.A. 'Matt said.Mary was stunned for a moment.'Matt Your kidding!'she 
said.'No Mary I'm not kidding.'he said laughing.Mary sighed knowing that she 
would have to leave the kids agian.Matt knew what she was thinking.'Mary 
bring the kids with you.There's no school.Why not show them L.A.'Matt 
said.Mary smiled.'Alright,but I want to be back before my Birthday on the 
thirteenth.'Mary said.Matt laughed.'You got it lady! Back in time for a big 
Birthday Party.'He said.Mary and Matt said there good byes.Mary smiled as she 
looked around the room.Katie came over and hugged."I like my new 
room,mommy!"Katie said as she looked up at her mother.Mary smiled "I knew you 
would like it.Now come on lets get ready for the fireworks!"Mary said.
 
Paul opened the car door for Lisa.Lisa slid into the car."Well what about 
coming to New York with me?"Lisa asked as Paul slid behind the wheel.Paul 
took a deep breath.She hadent shut up about him coming to New York with her 
sense her agent had called two days ago."Lisa,I really need to stay here in 
L.A. I want to spend some time with Evan."Paul said as he started the 
car.Lisa shot him one of her angry looks."Why can't we take Evan with us?"she 
asked.Paul gripped the steering wheel as he clenched his teeth."Lisa I just 
don't want to go to New York.I want to stay here and be alone for 
awhile."Paul said.Lisa was stunned that he wouldent want to be with her."Paul 
what is wrong with you?"she said anger in her voice."I'm just tired."Paul 
said.Paul knew that was always what he said to her.She just dident seem to 
get it.Paul knew he was using her and she knew it too.Paul just wanted 
someone to help him cope with his lonlyness.Lisa just wanted to date an older 
rock star.Paul and Lisa rode in silence.Paul just wanted her to leave for a 
few days.He needed a rest from her constent chating about nothing.Paul pulled 
into Doc's drive way.The gate was open as he pulled up to the house.The 
fourth of July cook out was in full swing.Paul helped Lisa from the car.She 
made her way right to the pool to talk to Shannon.Paul walked over to Gene 
and Bruce.He pulled a chair out and sat down at the table."Hows it 
going?"Gene asked.Paul nodded as he pulled his sunglasses down form his 
eyes."Its going."Paul said flatly.Paul,Gene and Bruce sat there for awhile 
chating.Paul looked up to see Lisa running across the lawn from the 
pool."Guess what?"she said out of breath.Paul turned and looked at 
her."What?"Paul asked not catching her exsitment."Dreamworks is looking for a 
blond to play a part in a movie!I'm not going to New York!I'm going to try 
out for the part!"she said.Paul rolled his eyes."Graet!"he said trying to 
sound exsited.Lisa turned and ran back to the pool area.Gene looked at 
Paul."Why don't you just break up with her?"Gene asked.Paul took a deep 
breath."I don't know.I just don't want to be alone."Paul said.Bruce laughed 
"Man there are women lined up for you Stanley!"he said.Paul grined at him as 
thoughts of Mary ran through his mind."I wonder what movie there 
casting?"Paul said.Gene smiled."Runaway.You know that book about the girl and 
the two guys.Its a real tear jerker."Gene said.Paul and Bruce both grined at 
Gene."OH the big bad demon cried when he read the book."Bruce teased.Gene 
laughed "No I dident read the dama thing.Shannon read it and told me about 
it!"he said.Paul felt his heart twisting in his chest as he listened to Bruce 
and Gene talking about Mary's book. 
Paul and Lisa headed for the car around midnight.Lisa put her arm around Paul 
waist as they walked to the car.Paul pulled away.Lisa hated when he got like 
this which was most of the time."So tell me about this movie part."Paul said 
once they were in the car.Lisa was exsited that he was intrested in something 
about her life."Well from what I heard from Shannon and her sister.There 
looking for a young blond to play the lead.The story is about a girl who runs 
away from home and falls in love with two guys that are in the same 
band."Lisa said with exsitment in her voice.Paul nodded "Have you read the 
book the movie is going to be based on?"Paul asked.Lisa shook her head "I' 
borrowed the book from Shannon."she said.Paul nodded."When are you going to 
be trying out?Paul asked."Sometime in July.I guess the lady who wrote the 
book is coming to help pick actors and actress."she saidPaul could feel his 
heart in his throat at the thought of Mary."Mary"he said not even realizing 
he had said her name out load ."What?"Lisa said as she looked at him 
narrowing her eyes.Paul looked over at her."Nothing"he said."I thought you 
called me Mary."she said as Paul pulled into the drive way.Paul laughed as he 
looked at her You lady will never be my Mary he thought to himself as he 
looked at her.Paul unlocked the door and walked upstairs to his office 
.Leaving Lisa downstairs.He pulled open the desk drawer and pulled out the 
photo of Mary and him standing in front of the Statue of Liberty.He closed 
his eyes thinking about her small frame in his arms.He wanted so much to 
touch her agian.To hold her and say the words forever my love was his one 
wish.Paul was so deep in thought he dident hear Lisa come into the room.He 
felt her hand touch his shoulder.His eyes poped open in surprise."Oh my 
God!Thats her!"Lisa squeeled as she pointed at the photo.Paul looked up at 
her knowing she was talking about Mary being the one who wrote the book."You 
know her!Oh Paul you know her and you dident tell me!"she said in a pouting 
voice that made Paul sick to his stomch."Yes I kind of know her."Paul 
said."Well it looks like you know her real well."Lisa said.
 
Mary watched the fireworks that night with her two children sitting on a 
blanket in Central park.The fireworks had never meant so much to Mary as she 
looked up at them bursting in the sky above her.She had tears in her eye as 
she thought of her new found freedom.She could hear Paul's voice in her 
head,"You are free.Go write your book its your freedom."She closed her eyes 
picturing his face in her mind.That was the reason she had dedicated her book 
to him.'To P.S. the man who gave me the key to my freedom.I will always love 
you' She had wrote.She wondered if he had read her book.She knew he was 
dating a model.Her heart had twisted in her chest when she had read that he 
was seeing someone.Still she hoped that he was happy.Mary hadent dated anyone 
sense her divorce not that she had any time.The book was all that had been on 
her mind sense it had been published.She was snapped from her thought when 
she felt Tommy's hand on her leg."Its over Mom."he said.Mary smiled as she 
got up from the blanket."Come on kids lets go home."she said as she took 
there hands and led them from the park. 
 
Paul looked up at Lisa trying to think up something to say.He dident want her 
to know anything about Mary."So how did you meet her?"Lisa asked as Paul 
quickly put the picture back into the desk drawer."I met her in passing 
before the book was published.She probably doesent even remember me."Paul 
said as he stood up from the desk.Lisa opened the desk drawer and picked up 
the photo.Paul grabed the picture from her hand."Lisa please I really don't 
like anyone going in my desk."Paul said as he took the photo from her 
hand."Oh for godsake Paul! We live together and were in love! We shouldent 
keep secreats."Lisa said.Paul's stomch did a small flip."Lisa I'm tired lets 
go to bed."he said.Lisa grabed his arm before he could walk from the 
room."Will you please call her and put a word in for me?"Lisa pleaded.Paul 
took a deep breath."I told you Lisa! I only met her once.It was just a breif 
meeting.Now lets go to bed."Paul said as anger edged into his voice."Paul you 
could help out so much if you would just do this one thing for me!"Lisa said 
as she followed him down the hall to the bedroom.Paul turned to face 
her."Lisa I'm not calling her! If you have talent I'm sure you will get the 
part.For God sake don't you want to get something on your own?"Paul said.Lisa 
looked at him with hurt eye's."Paul if you loved me you would help me with my 
career."she said.Paul shook his head as he walked into the bedroom.He began 
to disrobe as Lisa came up behind him running her hands up and down his 
chest.Paul took her hands and gently pushed them away."I'm not in the 
mood."Paul said as he steped away from her embrace.Lisa took a deep breath as 
she watched Paul walk into the master bathroom.Your never in the mood Lisa 
thought to herself.Lisa picked up the book that Shannon had loaned her.Lisa 
never was a big reader.She found it hard to sit still an read.Lisa skiped the 
front of the book and turned to the first chapter....
 
Mary walked to the door of her apartment as the doorbell rang for a second 
time."Im coming!"she called as she opened the door to let Terry and Matt 
inside."Are you ready?"Matt asked as he sat his and Terrys suitcase down next 
to Mary's."Almost! The kids are in the kitchen with the nanny eating a quick 
breakfast before we leave."Mary said as she gave Terry a quick hug.Matt 
walked over and gave Mary peck on the cheek.Matt gave Mary a small wink as he 
pulled away.Terry walked to the sofa and took a seat."Would you two like some 
coffee?"Mary asked as she walked towards the kitchen."Sure"they both 
said.Terry looked at Matt as he watched Mary walk out of the room."Why the 
hell don't you tell her how you feel?"Terry asked as she looked at him.Matt 
cleared his throat was it that obivous he thought to himself.Terry had known 
Matt for ten years and she knew that Matt had fallen in love with Mary.Matt 
ran his figers through his dark gray hair."Tell her how I feel about 
what?"Matt asked playing dumb.Terry rolled her eyes."Give me a break 
Matt!"Terry said.They were intterupted when Mary walked back into the room 
with two mugs of coffee.She smiled as she handed one to Matt.Matt's heart 
melted everytime he looked at her.Mary dident seem to notice any of his loved 
filled glances.Mary turned and handed the other cup to Terry.Terry took the 
cup as she opened up her note book."Lets go over the game plan.before we head 
to the airport."Terry said.Mary sighed as she listened to Terry talk.Mary's 
mind drifted to the trip.She closed her eyes as she wondered if she should 
try to call Paul."So we should be done with in a week."Terry said as she 
closed the note book after going over everything.Mary nodded as she got up 
from the sofa."Come on kids.Time to go!"Mary called to Tommy and Katie.Tommy 
ran into the room followed by Katie and a round middled aged woman.Matt 
picked up two of the suit cases."I'll have the limo driver come help with the 
rest of the bags."Matt said as he walked out the door.Mary grabbed two of th 
bags."We can carry them if we all grab a couple."Mary said.Matt rolled his 
eyes."Mary you don't have to that."Matt said.Mary hated asking people to do 
things for her that she could do herself.Matt watched as she handed everyone 
a suitcase."Matt there's no need for the driver to come all the way up here 
when we have six people here who can each carry a bag."Mary said.Matt nodded 
as they all six headed to the limo for the ride to the airport. Mary walked 
through the L.A. airport holding Katie's hand.The nanny and Tommy walked a 
little bit behind them.Terry and Matt had gone to claim the bags.Mary felt 
like curling up and sleeping for the next week.She was so tired of 
traveling.Every airport seemed to look the same to her.She was going to sit 
her foot down to Matt when they got back to New York no more trips till the 
kids went back to school.Katie clutched her mother's hand tightly as she 
looked around the airport."Will there be a big car here to take us to the 
hotal?"Katie asked with wide green eyes.Mary smiled down at her."Yes 
sweetie.There should be.Terry is checking on that right now."Mary said.Mary 
found a long bench and took a seat.Tommy and the nanny,Hilda sat down next to 
her.Katie climbed up on her mother's lap.Mary took a deep breath as she 
looked over at Hilda.She had been a god send sense her book tour.She had even 
agreed to move from St Louis to New York with her and the children.Katie and 
Tommy adored her.they even called her Granny.Mary was happy that she dident 
have to worry about the children being cared for when she traveled.Matt came 
up with all the suitcases on a cart.A purrser was following close behind to 
take the cart to there waiting limo."Whare's Terry?"Matt asked as he looked 
around."She went to check on the limo."Mary said.Matt nodded "It was supposed 
to be here.I called before we left this morning."Matt said in a panic.Mary 
hated the way Matt always got upset when things dident go just right."Matt 
don't worry about it.Terry's calling them right now.If we have to we can take 
a cab."Mary said.Matt was just about to speak when Terry came running 
up."Alright lets go the limo is here!"she said between pants."What the hell 
happened?"Matt asked as they all got up and followed Terry."He went to the 
wrong door."Terry said as she walked ahead of the group."Why can't people get 
anything straight!"Matt ranted as they made there way out of the airport and 
to the waiting limo.Mary put her hand to her mouth to cover her laughter when 
she heard Tommy say to Hilda "He sounds just like my dad."
 
Paul awoke to hear the shower running.He slowly got out of bed and walked to 
the door of the bathroom.He knew Lisa would be in there for another hour at 
least.He shook his head as he walked back over to the bed.He looked down at 
the book on the bedside table.'RUNAWAY'the title read in bold letters.Paul 
picked it up a turned it over to look at the photo.He smiled as he looked at 
her sweet smile.She was wearing a beutiful sweater with jeans.She looked so 
relaxed as she stared up at him from the back cover of her book.Your free my 
love he said to himself.Paul fliped the book open to the front of the book.He 
sat down on the edge of the bed and scaned the title page.He jumped when he 
felt Lisa's hands touch his shoulder's from behind.Paul turned to look at 
her."Come here you."she said in a low sexey voice as she pulled the book from 
his hands.Paul could feel her damp hair on his back as she eased him around 
to face her.She covered his mouth in a deep kiss."Make love to me."she said 
in a demanding whisper.Paul slowly laid her back on the bed.He closed his 
eyes as his hands ran over her breast.He felt him self slowly growing hard 
with desire.He entered her with one thrust.He heard her yelp in surprise.He 
opened his eyes to look at her once.He quickly closed them again.In his mind 
he could see Mary as he moved inside of Lisa.He bit his tongue as he filled 
Lisa with one last thrust.He dident dare call out for Mary's name was on his 
lips and in his heart.........
 
Mary and her small group climbed into the limo.Mary closed her eyes as the 
limo drove through the streets of L.A.She could hear Matt and Terry talking 
about the breakfast meeting with the preducers in the morning.Mary was just 
to tired to think as the limo pulled up to the hotal.Mary still had her eyes 
closed when she felt Hilda touch her shoulder"Were here dear."she said 
kindly.Mary opened her eyes slowly.Matt smiled at her as she looked 
around."you need to get some rest."he said as he opened the limo door for 
her.Mary nodded as she steped out of the car.She grabed the childrens hands 
as they all walked into the hotal.Mary looked at her watch as she stood in 
the lobby.It was almost six o clock in L.A. Terry came over and handed her 
two room keys."The rooms are on the tenth floor."Terry said."Terry I have a 
friend here in L.A. Would you mind looking him up for me?"Mary asked as she 
put the keys in her purse.Terry smiled at Mary "Not at all.Whats your friends 
name?"Terry asked.Mary grined "Paul Stanley.I'd like to see him while I'm 
here in L.A."Mary said.Terry narrowed her eyes"You mean the guy in KISS."she 
said in a shoked voice.Mary nodded "Thats the guy."Mary said.Terry rolled her 
eyes "Don't tell me your a fan!"Terry said.Mary said "Well yes I'am a 
fan.Does that shock you?"Terry nodded her head "Yes it does.You just don't 
look like the kind of woman who would be a KISS fan."Terry said.Mary laughed 
"Well I'am!"she said.Terry laughed "I'll try and find out some info on him 
tonight!"she promised as they walked to the elavator.
 
Paul walked down the stairs trying to avoid Lisa.Sense they had made love 
that morning she wanted to hang on him.He had no intrest in cuddeling with 
her.She drove him crazy most days.He walked into the living room and sat 
down.Lisa came down the stairs in her swimmimg suit."Come on lets going 
swiming before dinner."she said smiling at him like a cat in heat.Paul looked 
away from her."No I think I'll watch some tv."he said as he reached for the 
remote on the coffee table.Lisa put her hands on her hips as she stood 
there.He made her so angry sometimes.He had to be the most moody guy she had 
ever been with.Lisa turned and left the living room.Paul fliped through the 
channels looking for something intresting.He sighed and shut off the tv.He 
laid back on the couch.He looked at the book that was laying on the table 
next to the sofa.He reached over his head and picked it up.He once again 
fliped it over to stare at the photo on the back.He traced her face with his 
finger.He smiled as he whispered her name.Paul fliped the book open to the 
tital page.'To P.S. the man who gave me the key to my freedom.I will always 
love you.'Paul read as tears came to his eyes.Paul closed the book as he sat 
up on the couch."I'll always love you too."he said outload.The phone rang as 
Paul held the book to his chest.......
 
Mary opened the door to the suiet of rooms she would be sharing with the kids 
and Hilda.Hilda took the kids into the bedroom to get them washed up for 
dinner.Mary walked over to the window as a bell hop walked in siting the bags 
down."Anything else Miss?"the young man asked.mary smiled as she handed him 
his tip."No I'm fine thank you."she said.Mary closed the door after he 
left.Tommy came into the room.He rubbed his tired eyes as he looked at his 
mother.Mary smiled at her tired son."Are you hungry sweetie?"Mary asked.Tommy 
nodded."Come here and sit next to me we can order room service."Mary said as 
she sat down on the sofa.Tommy snuggeled up to his mother as she opened the 
room service menu.Katie and Hilda came into the room a few moments 
later.Katie ran and craweled into her mother's lap.Mary read off the choices 
to the children helping them make up there minds.Hilda went back into the 
bedrooms to turn down there beds and sit there pajams out.There was a soft 
knock at the door.Mary sighed as she pushed Katie gently off her lap to 
answer the door."Who is it?"Mary asked."Me"Matt''s voice said through the 
door.Mary opened the door and let him inside.Matt looked over at the children 
they were staring up at him with tired eye's."I was wondering if you guys 
wanted to come down stairs for dinner?"he asked.Mary smiled at him "Thats 
very sweet of you but were all tired.Were just going to order room 
service."Mary said.Matt's heart sank."Oh alright"he said as he turned to 
leave.Mary said "Why don't you stay and eat with us."Matt turned around and 
looked at her "Are you sure you wouldent mind?"he asked.Mary smiled "Of 
course not.There's no sense in you eating alone."she said.Matt smiled as he 
took a seat on the couch.Tommy looked at Matt wishing his mother hadent 
invited him to stay.Matt reminded him of his father.Tommy liked it when it 
was just him and his mother and Katie and of course Granny Hilda.Tommy dident 
want to share his mother's time with Matt that was for sure.Mary sat back 
down pulling Katie back on to her lap....
"
Paul took a deep breath as he reached for the phone trying to calm himself 
down."Mr Stanley?"a strange voice asked."Yes this is Mr.Stanley.Who is 
this?'Paul asked.'My name is Terry Kenndy.I'm Ms.Peterson's personal 
assistent.Ms.Peterson is in town and was wondering if you would like to have 
dinner with her tomrow?'Terry said.Paul's heart skiped a beat as a knote 
twisted in his stomch.'Yes I would love to have dinner with her.'Paul 
said.Terry could tell that the man on the other end of the line was 
thrilled.Terry said'Wonderful is seven good for you?'Paul closed his eyes as 
he said 'That sounds fine,Whare should I meet her at?'Paul said.Terry said 
'The Hilton hotal she is in room 1025.'Paul smiled as he said goodbye after 
there talk.Paul looked at his watch.In twentyfour hours he would see Mary 
again.He opened the book once more and started to read capter one........ 
 
Terry wrote down Mary's dinner date with Paul in her date book.Terry got up 
from the chair in her hotal room.She knew Mary would want to know she had 
tracked down Mr.Stanley thanks to Doc his manger.Terry opened the door and 
walked a few steps down the hall to Mary's door.She knocked softly.Mary's 
voice asked "Who is it?" through the closed door.Terry laughed and said "A 
crazy woman!"Mary was laughng as she opened the door.Terry was shocked to see 
Matt sitting at the table sharing dinner with Mary and her family."Want 
something to eat?"Mary asked as Terry walked into the room."No I just got 
something down stairs."Terry said.Mary nodded as she sat down at the 
table.Terry pulled up a chair and sat down next to Hilda."I just came by to 
let you know you have a dinner date with Paul Stanley tomrow at Seven."Terry 
said.Mary slowly let a smile creep over her face as her heart began to pound 
at the thought of seeing him again.Matt was stunned for a second when Terry 
had said date."Thats wonderful! Thanks Terry.How did you find him?"Mary 
said.Terry grined as she looked at Mary."Lets just say I know Kiss's manger 
from way back when I worked the mail room at Mercurey records."Terry 
said.Mary laughed "I forgot about that!"she said.Matt stood up from his 
seat."Mary I don't think seven is a good time for you tommrow.We are going to 
be in meetings most of the day."he said as jelousy crept into his heart.Mary 
rolled her eyes."Matt we won't be in meetings that late."Mary said.Terry 
glared at Matt as she handed Mary a card with Paul's home phone number 
written on it."Here his number.I know he would love to hear from you."Terry 
said as she headed towards the door.Mary walked her to the door and hugged 
her."Thanks."Mary said.Terry smiled "Any time kid."Terry said as she walked 
out the door.Mary walked back into the room.Hilda got up from the table and 
annouced bedtime.Tommy and Katie protested a little as they walked towards 
the bedroom.Mary smiled at them and said."I'll be in to tuck you in."Matt sat 
down on the sofa.Mary walked over and sat next to him."Mary why do you want 
to meet with Paul Stanley of all people?"he asked coming right to the 
point.Mary laughed as she looked at the shocked look on his face as he 
spoke."Well I guess its time for me to tell you who P.S. is."she said.Matt 
stared at her as he realized that her book was dedacated to Paul 
Stanley."Mary!"he said.Mary put her hand over her mouth as she laughed."Thats 
right Paul Stanley is the guy who gave me a new life."she said."How the hell 
did you ever hook up with him?"Matt asked."I met him in at a hotal in New 
York about seven months ago."Mary said.Matt nodded slowly as he listened to 
Mary tell him about her love affair with Paul.Matt closed his eyes as he 
looked at her."Well I guess that exsplains why you don't date."Matt said.Mary 
laughed "Like I have time!"Mary said.Matt stared at her "Well it looks like 
you are going to make time for Paul."he said.Mary noticed a tone of 
bitterness in his voice.Mary was stunned for a moment at his tone."Matt I 
just want to thank him.I know he is living with a woman.I don't stand a 
chance with him.He was pretty angry with me.I'm surprised he agreed to dinner 
with me."Mary said as she pushed a twinge of pain from her heart.Matt nodded 
as he leaned a little closer to Mary.Mary was a little uncomfortable as he 
looked into her eyes.Suddenly Mary felt his lips aginst her mouth.She was 
shocked as Matt kissed her.His arms wrapped around her shoulders as he pushed 
a little harder aginst her mouth.Visions of Chad ran through Mary's mind as 
she gently pushed him away."Matt please!"Mary said once she had broke free of 
his kiss.Matt looked away he knew that Mary dident have the same feeling as 
he did."I'm sorry,Mary"Matt said as ge got up from the sofa.Mary sat there in 
stunned silence as Matt walked out the door........
 
Lisa sat stright up in bed when she heard the phone ring.She could hear the 
shower running in the bathroom.She reached for the phome with a grown.'Ya' 
she said in a groggy voice.Mary wondered if she had the right number as she 
held her cell phone to her ear.'Is this the Stanley resadence?'Mary 
asked.Lisa came wide awake when she heard the woman's voice on the line.'Yes 
this is the Stanley home.Now who the hell are you and why are you calling my 
boyfriends house?'Lisa asked in a angry voice.Mary cleared her throat.'This 
is Mary Peterson.I'm a friend of his I just called to say hi.'Mary said.Lisa 
jumped from the bed when the woman said her name.'I'm sorry Ms.Peterson! Oh 
god I'am sorry.'Lisa said as she felt her chance at the roll sliping 
away.Mary said 'Thats alright,is Paul there?'Lisa looked towards the bathroom 
door as she heard the water stop running.'Yes hold on.'Lisa said.Lisa jumped 
from the bed and ran to the bathroom door.Lisa threw open the door as Paul 
was wraping a towel around his middle.Paul jumped in shock when she opened 
the door."Its her!Hurry up she wants to talk to you!"Lisa shouted with 
exsitment.Paul looked at her like she was crazy as she pulled him out of the 
bathroom."Who?"Paul asked as she pulled him over to the phone."The chick that 
wrote the book!"Lisa said as she handed him the phone.Paul's heart was in his 
throat as Lisa covered the mouth peice with her hand."Tell her about me!"she 
said as she handed the phone to him.Paul took the phone and turned away from 
Lisa.'Mary' he said as he waited to hear her voice once more...... 
Mary's heart skiped a beat when she heard his soft voice say her name.'Paul 
how are you?'Mary said as she cradeled the phone to ear as she stood in the 
hallway of the pradeucer's office.'Oh Mary it is so good to hear your 
voice!'Paul said.Paul could picture her smiling at him as he spoke to her on 
the phone.'I hope I dident upset your girlfriend.Please tell her I'm 
sorry.'Mary said.Paul looked over at Lisa who was hopping around trying to 
make him understand to tell him about her.'Don't worry about her.'Paul 
said.Mary let out a small laugh.'She sounds like jelous woman!I don't want to 
make trouble for you.'she said.Paul covered the mouth peice with his 
hand."Lisa please go get me a cup of coffee."Paul said as he looked at 
Lisa.Lisa glared at him she could tell Paul dident want her around while he 
was talking to the woman on the phone.Lisa turned and walked out of the room 
shooting a dirty look at him as she left.Paul put the phone back to his 
ear.'Mary I've thought of you everyday.'Paul said as he felt his heart 
melting.Mary sighed as she let her own feelings of love creep into heart.'I 
know Paul.I have thought of you too.'Mary said.'I can't wait to see you 
tonight.'Paul said in a low voice.Mary smiled 'I know I'm looking forward to 
it.Whare would you like to go for dinner?'Mary asked.'I've taken care of 
everything.You just be ready.'Paul said.Mary felt a tap on her shoulder "Mary 
come on we have to meet with the directer."Terry said.Mary nodded as she 
turned to look at Terry.'Paul I have to go.I'll see you tonight.'Mary said as 
she clicked the phone shut.'I still love you.'Paul said as he heard the click 
of the phone......
 
Lisa looked at the phone as she walked into the kitchen."Basterd"she said as 
she poured a cup of coffee."I'm not his dama maid!"Lisa said as she turned 
around at the counter.Lisa picked up the phone carfully.She put the phone to 
her ear,covering the mouth peice.Lisa listened as Paul and Mary spoke.Lisa 
was stunned as she realized that the two of them had once been lovers.........
 
Mary sat in the meeting counting the minutes till they were over.What the 
hell are they talking about Mary thought as the movie people spoke to her and 
Matt.Hollywood was a whole new world that was for sure.Mary just wanted to 
write not make movies!Matt smiled at her as they sat in the meetings.Mary 
felt very uncomfortable sitting next to him after last night."So we wanted 
you to write the screen play."the man said as he ended his long speech.Matt 
said "Mary would be happy to write the screen play,When would you need 
it?"Mary cleared her throat as she stood up."Matt please,I can speak for 
myself.I'll write the screen play,but you will have to wait till winter.I 
need to finish my second book."She said as she looked at the people sitting 
around the long table.Matt stood up next to her."Mary they want to start 
making the movie!You should start on it now."He said looking at her."Really 
its alright.We are willing to wait for Ms.Peterson's screen play."One of the 
men said as he looked at them.Mary smiled at the man."Thank you.Just let me 
know when you would like it to be done."Mary said as she sat back down."Is 
January of next year alright?"one of the praducers asked.Mary nodded "That 
sounds great."Mary said."Good we will draw up the contract.We can cast the 
actors in January when you deleiver the screen play.By this time next year we 
should have a blockbuster!"the director said.Mary laughed and nodded "I hope 
so!"she said.Matt glared at her.He hated that she could always handel people 
like that.He wanted her to have as much control in making the movie as 
possible.She just dident seem to notice all the things he tried to do for 
her..... 
Lisa walked up the steps holding the hot mug of coffee.She felt like throwing 
it right in Paul's face.She walked into the room as Paul was pulling on his 
jeans.She handed him the coffee.Paul took the mug from her hands as he 
mummbeled a thank you.Lisa glared at him.He dident even notice as he pulled 
his shirt on and started to button it."So what are we doing tonight?"Lisa 
asked as she sat down on the edge of the bed.Paul turned around to look at 
the woman laying in his bed.He took a deep breath as he sat down next to 
her."Lisa its over."he said.Lisa'a heart pounded in her chest as he said the 
words she had been waiting to hear for so long.Hell she had known it was over 
before it started.She was just a trophy and he was just a steping stone to 
get her name in the papers when he took her out.Lisa took a deep breath "You 
and that chick who wrote the book were lovers wernt you?"she asked as she sat 
up next to him.Paul nodded he knew that he was hurting her but he just 
couldent go on lieing to her."Her name is Mary and yes for a very short time 
she and were lovers.I want to be with her.I don't want to lie to you."Paul 
said as tears welled up in Lisa's eyes.Lisa jumped from the bed and grabbed 
the mug of hot coffee sitting on the bedside table.She flung it right into 
Paul's face.Paul dunked out of the way as the hot coffee hit his neck and 
chest.He gasped as he jumped from the bed.He could feel the hot liqued as it 
ran down his neck and chest.Lisa stalked over to him and slaped him across 
the face."Go to hell you basterd!"Lisa said.Paul walked to the bathroom he 
grabbed a towel and walked out of the bathroom."Please Lisa just go."Paul 
said as he stripped off his coffee stained shirt.Paul had hoped she would 
take this break up well.Lisa stripped off her nightie."Look at me I'm 
everything a man could want!And you would rather have some boring housewife 
from ST.Louis who writes romance novels for other bored housewifes!"she 
yelled as she walked over to him.Paul felt his anger swelling in his 
chest."Put your clothes on.I'll call you a cab."Paul said as he turned and 
walked from the room."I hate you!"she scraemed as he walked away.....
 
Mary steped out of the meeting happy that it was over.Matt grabbed her arm as 
she turned to walk down the hall.Matt was acting as if the kiss had never 
taken place.Mary however felt very uncomfortable around him.After last nights 
kiss Mary had began to see alot of Chad in Matt.Not big things but little 
thing.He seemed to think she couldent speak for herself.He had even tried 
picking out