True Confessions:

finale

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Slowly she surfaced from a deep sleep and momentarily forgot where she was. Slowly she stirred, shaking her hair from her face. Gene's arms tightened around her possessively as she shifted to get more comfortable, his fingers buried in her dark hair. When she opened her eyes a little bit she noticed the sunlight beginning to creep along the sides of the walls.

"Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere," she whispered.

"Good, because then I won't have to hunt you down, sweetheart," he laughed. It was difficult to make out much without the benefit of glasses, but she could still admire his perfect full lips and soft dark eyes. Disbelief came over her, but she quickly accepted the fact she was in bed with who she was. It seemed as natural as breathing.

"Was it good for you?" he asked. From anyone else it would have sounded a little tawdry, but from Gene it was an honest question. Judging from the look in his eyes she knew he really wanted to know if she had enjoyed their time together.

"Incredibly," she sighed, stretching on top of him from head to toe.

"Same here sweetheart," he sighed with satisfaction.

"It's a rainbow," she whispered, struggling to put it into words.

"What is that, sweetheart?" he asked, nosing lightly into her hair.

"After seeing black and white your whole life… then suddenly being introduced to all the colors in the world. That is what it's like… here with you now… I feel… I feel… so alive…"

"Good," Gene nodded with a slow smile. "Glad I could help you relax…"

"You did far more then that… I'm still tingling. What was that substance you rubbed all over me?"

"Spearmint body rub. Works wonders…"

"Makes me wonder how many other little tricks you know," she laughed lightly.

"I can't wait to show you," he whispered back seductively. "We've only begun to explore all the possibilities…"

"Strange to think all this time I tried getting Paul's attention and I'm here now… in your bed of all places. It's as if some irresistible force was pushing me towards you instead of him…"

"Ace would have a field day with that stuff. He'd say it was gravity," Gene joked.

"He'd probably come up with some wonderful SF babble that was a mix of astrology and his own brand of logic…"

"That's Ace for you, doll."

"In terms of astrological compatibility, I was a strike out from the beginning with Paul, " she laughed. "He's a Capricorn, right?"

"And you're not a Cancer I take it. Is that where you're going with this?" Gene responded. "By the way, when is your birthday?"

"Second of November."

"Ohh, a Scorpio. Well you definitely fit your reputation… if I do say so," he commented, squeezing her backside affectionately.

"I almost died laughing when I found out your sign was Virgo… of all things…" Terri commented, laying her head on his chest and listening to the soothing sound of his heartbeat.

"Oh man, I knew that would come up sooner or later," he burst out laughing. "But you know Virgo's are extremely compatible with Scorpio's…"

She shivered with delight at his knowing wink, admitting, and "I don't usually believe in that crap… but it makes you wonder…"

"Mmm it certainly does. And people believe in it because they have to believe in something."

"And a lot of people make a lot of money at it too…"

"Indeed," Gene nodded. He moved to get up, not wanting to leave the comforts of the vast bed. Yet there were some things that couldn't wait.

"I'll be right back… don't go away," he whispered, slipping out of the bed and grabbing a pair of shorts to throw on. Leaving Terri to glimpse her reflection in the large overhead mirror for the umpteenth time. Tangled among the sheets, the image looked like something out of hustler or playboy, and she burst out laughing.

"Oh man have I ever done it," she found herself laughing. That ache inside she had felt for the last week was at last beginning to disappear. She hated to spoil her well being with thoughts of any work. Her old life seemed to be shifting farther away. Moving over to the other side of the bed she grabbed her glasses and slipped them on. Glancing at the alarm clock she saw it was almost noon. When was it she had to report again for work?

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"How do you like your coffee, black or with cream and sugar?" Gene asked her when she came down stairs. It was surprising to see him making coffee, but he was. Other thumps and clangs came from the kitchen, and she was stunned. He was actually making breakfast?

"Huh?" she asked, snapping her head up to attention. Gene set a mug down in front of her, steaming hot.

"I thought you had some sexy French maid waiting on you hand and foot!" she laughed.

"Well I told them to take a day off. I mean I like having hired help keep this place up, but they get in the way sometimes…" Gene said, and there came a scraping of metal on metal. Neatly he folded a few scrambled eggs onto a plate, sprinkling Tabasco sauce on both portions. Taking both plates he strode out to the kitchen table. He set it before her, along with a plate of fresh toast. Already there was a pitcher of orange juice to one side.

"What's with the domestic?" she laughed. "I didn't know you could cook…"

"There are a lot of things about me you don't know," Gene smiled seductively. "And you'll discover more and more…"

Terri took a bite of the scrambled eggs, and gave a slow experimental chew. Gene watched her carefully, wondering why she was wincing, and if she would spit it out.

"This is got to be…" she swallowed. "Undeniably…"

"Well…"

"The most interesting breakfast I've had," she finished.

"You had me going there," Gene laughed. "You naughty girl you. It's not nice to tease… unless you know what you're going to get in return…"

"And what would that be?" she winked at him. Their gazes met, smoldering brown meeting smoldering brown.

From the hallway the clock chimes sounded out one, and Terri groaned. The moment passed, and she started to get up from her chair.

"Wait, aren't you going to finish it?" Gene asked, looking a little hurt.

"Yes… but I've gotta haul ass and get to the arena…"

"Wait, when did Alison tell you that you had to get there?" Gene asked.

"One thirty!" Terri groaned. "And I haven't even gotten dressed… and shit… my luggage is at the hotel!"

"Don't kill yourself getting there," Gene said, steadying her as she almost tripped. "We'll go over together. After all, I am technically your employer… when you get down to it…"

"Duh on me!" she laughed. "I am a naughty girl, sleeping with the boss!"

"A good girl gone bad. My favorite kind," Gene laughed, giving her a playful whack on her butt. "Now let's get going…"

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The limo pulled up at about one forty five on the dot. Gene's booted feet hit the pavement first, and he extended a hand to help Terri out of the limousine. She gripped his hand tightly and let him lead her past the bluster of road security and television crews. Already she had seen a few news vans train their cameras on the limo when it pulled up. Instinctively she ducked behind Gene, whom she was grateful was so much taller then she. To keep up with his long stride she had to walk rapidly. For a moment when Gene led her by the road security she felt like a small child being dragged by Mommy through the grocery store for the first time. Anxious and afraid to be lost, and holding onto the hand for dear life.

"This is where I stop, love," he leaned close and whispered into her ear. Delicious shivers shot all over her skin. "See you soon…"

He left here there, glancing left and right at the already bustling road crew and road security. She slipped her badge around her neck and rushed off toward the arena.

She ran into Allison who was just counting the latest recharge of pyros. "Sorry I'm late," Terri huffed.

"It's okay, girl. You're just in time to help set up the main sequence. Just follow my lead…"

For the next few hours she worked alongside Allison and her crew. They set charges and ran the electronic fuses. Each had to be tested. Around them worked the sound crew, checkign the amps and microphones. In daytime the whole set seemed vastly different. It loomed over them all, swarming them so they felt like insignificant ants.

Occasionally the lighting crew fired up the twin signs. Lights flickered din patterns to make sure the thousands of bulbs were functioning. Scaffolding that held the spotlights were hoisted back into place. The huge platforms were also checked, including Peter's drum set.

The whole time rushed into a blur while they struggled against the clock. It was a shock when Terri felt someone tapping her shoulder, saying, "Breaktime!"

"Already?"

"Yeah! Want to go for coffee?" Allison chirped. The blond woman led her away toward the canteen. Terri glanced at her watch and realized it was already four thirty. Sound check was already underway. She could glimpse the guitar techs coming out to prepare KISS' instruments for the impending concert. Well could she guess where they were now.

"Time flies, huh?" Terri grinned. While they got in line for the coffee machine, thoughtful blue eyes rested on her.

"So… did you have fun last night?"

"Last night? What about it?" Terri said casually as she reached for the furthest coffeepot on the back of the machine. In the other hand she snagged a paper cup and inverted it to pour a steady steamy stream of java.

"C'mon girl, I saw you leave with him," Allison nudged her, grabbing herself a cup. Terri poured her a full cup as well. She took two creamers and sugar, loading eight ounces with sweetness while Allison gulped hers black. Both women moved to the privacy of a nearby table.

"Last time I saw you Chris said you were helping Gloria," Allison winked. "I could guess what that meant… when you didn't come back or show up at the hotel…"

"Oops, was it that obvious?" Terri winced.

"Hey, you're secret's safe with me. Gene and I are buds, remember?" Allison whispered, leaning close. She watched Terri's dark brown eyes stare past her into space while she absently stirred her coffee. A healthy flush hued her olive complexion, her long dark hair a little mussed into thick curls.

"So… are you or aren't' you gonna spill?" Allison grinned. Terri took a sip, and rested her chin on her hand.

"In a word… totally freaking fantastic," she answered, with a slow smile.

"Whoa… you rock girl!" Allison suppressed a laugh. "I knew it! You're one lucky woman! I want details…"

"Allison, do the words peppermint body rub mean anything to you?" Terri winked.

"Mmn, he does dig you. That's his favorite trick…" Allison teased. "I've heard about that… but man. Did he get out the handcuffs…"

Terri flushed and held up a hand, "No, but we had fun reflecting on the experience…"

"You dug the mirror right?" Allison giggled. "Sounds like fun!"

"Er, since you and he… had a thing… is there any advice… you'd care to impart… woman to woman…"

"Well," Allison gave a slow naughty smile. "Sometimes he likes it tough. But don't freak. Just enjoy the ride."

"Well I don’t' mean between the sheets… I mean in general," Terri clarified. "I mean… you know… considering just whom we are discussing?"

"Aren't we formal. Well, above all, be honest with him. He doesn't like bullshitting, and he's very slick. He can tell when you're hiding something. So be up front, and it should be all right…"

"But the flirting…"

"It's just him. Don't take it personally. After all… he flew halfway across the country to find you… right?"

"True…"

Just then Terri heard a beeping from Allison's belt. She peered down at the small pager, tilting it so she could read the number. "Damn, it's my boyfriend," Allison muttered. "Excuse me, gotta make a call…"

"Your boyfriend?"

"Great guy. He's a scriptwriter in Beverly Hills. Meet you back at the mixing board in thirty okay? If I don't get back you can tell Ron to lay the main flashpots…"

"Okay…" Terri nodded. She watched Allison leave, and decided to take the time to make a little tour of the place. After all, she didn't have to report to main duty till after the sound check was done… and she had till six when she actually had to be up in the booth.

Terri strolled backstage, and to the back lot where the busses were. Several roadies were patrolling, rolling crates with the KISS logo on them. She peered down at her namecard badge, as if to really confirm what was going on. Peering past the trucks and busses, she saw a few cars had pulled up. One or two facepainted people in costumes and T-shirts were sneaking past the gate. They were quickly intercepted by road security. Except for one blond in a Starchild costume. Terri crept behind a bus as one of the road security, named Derrick, moved up to her, blocking her way.

"Hey baby, where are you going?"

Terri ducked behind the nearest crate, to listen. For the first time she was on the other side of the fence. The groupie peered up out of a homemade Paul's bandit mask, holding a backpack over one shoulder. Her large bust was precariously nestled in a Destroyer costume slit to her navel. Rather then being scooped neck like Paul's it was in a V shape, dotted with what must be plastic rhinestones. Makeshift boots covered her legs. Terri saw her back away when Derek gave her a shit-eating grin.

"I have to what?"

"You know you gotta give head… if you wanna meet the band…"

"I'm not that kind of girl…" she snapped. "Please… can't I just get back here and meet the band?"

"I can't let every groupie in. What's it worth to you?"

"I'll give you anything… anything but that…"

"Sorry gal. If you don't put out, forget it…" Derek sneered, folding arms across his chest. The girl's face worked into a frown, and Terri saw tears in her eyes. Enough was enough.

"I'll be seeing you, if you change your mind," Derek called as he walked away toward the arena. As if to rub in the fact he had privileges she'd never see.

Terri walked up to Derek, tapping him on the shoulder, "Hey, can you tell me where Road Security is?"

"Sure… I'm going there myself…"

They made it to the small booth where she saw a good pile of laminated VIP passes. Terri watched Derek and Mark shooting the breeze. Apparently they were swapping groupie stories. Terri grinned disarmingly, and backed up to the pile when they weren't looking. Quickly she grabbed two, and stuffed them into her Levi's before darting away.

Terri rushed across the lot, trying not to look suspicious. She crept behind a bus, and made it to the gate.

"I'm going out for a smoke," she said innocently to one of the guards.

"Don't forget to get your butt back here… those groupies when they show up will be all over you…" Joe said. Teri rushed out of the gate, and into the real world. Already she saw the cars pulling into the lot, and saw people moving toward the arena. Glancing left and right she tried to find the groupie in starchild gear.

She saw her staring at the opening in the fence, and quickly grabbed her and pulled her behind the trailer.

"Hey," Terri said. "You want to see the band?"

"Are you shitting me, or are you serious?" the girl in Bandit makeup asked, wiping away a tear.

"Don't cry. You'll smudge your makeup. After all you don't want Paul to see you cry right?"

"Please… can you help me? I just gotta see them!"

"What's your name?"

"Liz…" she said, blue eyes fixing into Terri's.

"I'm Terri Mason. I'm a pyrotechnician for KISS," Terri said. "I saw you trying to get past Derek."

"You did?"

"Do you want an autograph, or to meet Paul?" she asked.

"Oh god, what do I have to do?"

"Tell me what you want. Autograph?"

"Yes… I just have to have him sign something…" she said slowly. "If you can't get me to see them, can you at least give this note to Paul?"

"Sure," Terri said, holding out her hand.

"Will you give it to him?"

"Cross my heart and hope to die," Terri said. Reaching into her pocket she pulled out the passes. "And these are for you…"

"Holy shit… you're kidding me! Oh my fucking god!" Liz gasped, as if Terri had pulled out the Holy Grail.

"No, I'm serious. Take these, and wait for the end of the show. Once you go to the gate, tell them Terri Mason sent you. Just say you're my cousin…"

"Oh god girl, you saved my life!" Liz squealed, holding the passes to her breast. "What can I do to repay you?"

"Just don't show those to anyone…" Terri whispered.

"I have got to give you something…" Liz babbled, fumbling at her backpack. Terri made a noise of protest, when she pulled out a small box and pushed it into her hands.

"Oh god… I can't take this…" Terri groaned when she saw it was a lunchbox. A bit battered and worn, she saw the four figures drifting in for a landing under the word Destroyers.

"Please… it’s not much… and it's not mint… but I was gonna have Paul sign it…"

"Well if I can't get you to meet the band I'll have Paul sign this and give it to you…" Terri said. "Okay?"

"Promise?' she asked.

"Yes…" Terri said.

"I can't believe this… you are so cool… why did you…"

Terri lifted her sleeve, and showed Liz the small iconic symbols from the Psycho Circus comic on her upper arm like a bracelet. Beneath them in orange and red was the band logo, still fresh from when she had it done six months ago. "Because of this…"

"Oh god… are you…"

"Yes… we gotta look out for each other," Terri whispered. "Now don't show those to anyone okay?"

Liz smiled and gave her a huge hug before trotting off to join her friends. Terri shook her head and glanced at the lunchbox in her hands. She quickly moved back to the gate before anyone saw her.

Anyone except Derek that was.

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Terri slammed down the phone in disgust. The apartment complex had politely announced that they had not readied her apartment yet. Worse, the movers were about to charge her extra for storage unless she gave them a place they could put her stuff.

"Dammit," she cursed. "This sucks. So… where to now?"

She bumped into Derek, who put himself in her way. "Whoa, where are you going in such a hurry?"

"Back to Allison…" Terri said, trying not to appear too rude. Even though looking at that smirk made her squirm in disgust.

"Well, something wrong with your apartment?" he asked. "I heard you were new to the area…"

"Well, I'm staying with a friend," she said. Derek looked blankly at her.

"Say, a few words of advice…" he said, stopping her.

"Excuse me?" she asked, fearing he knew her secret.

"Pretty clever, letting that groupie have those passes. Don't you know the rules?"

"What rules?" Terri played dumb.

"You know that you can't just give them away," he said.

"She didn't get them for free… I made her give me this," Terri brandished the lunchbox.

"Cute, but next time don't be so gullible," he said slowly.

"You abuse your power your way, and let me abuse mine my way, okay?' Terri said pertly as she pushed past him.

As she walked away, she heard his voice again, "I wouldn't abuse it much more… because if your boss Allison hears about how you just handed two passes to a groupie… your job could be on the line. Don't you know how obsessive they can be?"

"So obsessive that you would force them to have sex with you before even letting them have a shot?" she spat out.

"Yeah! What do you think? That's how we get the girls… and in your case you have the same right! Do you know how many guys want to see the guys too? You're missing some great action…"

"Terrific. So you think you can just go after some free pussy then?"

"Exactly. Don't you get it? And you don't even have to give them anything… they're so desperate…"

"You make me sick," Terri hissed. "You don't give a shit what they want. Just so you can fucking get laid!"

"Oh, aren't we high and mighty?" Derek laughed. "Watch it Terri, you won't stand a chance working here!"

"Shut the hell up," she muttered, moving away. Derek moved before her.

"Get out of my way," she said firmly, giving him a stare worthy of Gene Simmons himself. A low growl, barely audible sounded in her throat, and she could hardly stop herself once the sound came out.

"Well, if I were you…" he stammered nervously. "I'd watch it. I could easily rat on you. After all… crew who violate security are not high on the guys list… if you get my drift. For a small fee I might not say anything…"

"Here," she held up the lunchbox.

"Uh uh, girl. I can't sell a fucking box on ebay…"

"What are you talking about?"

"Two thousand dollars, for starters… and maybe something else?" he winked.

Terri reached into her purse she had with her, and pulled out the white envelope Gene had given her. There was over two thousand in cash there. "Here, take this and stick it up your ass!" she hissed, jamming it into his hand as she ran away.

A sick feeling rose inside of her as she realized she had given him her pay. But she didn't care. She wanted to be as far away from him as possible.

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As she made her way backstage again, Terri wondered if this Derek would tell on her? Would the money be enough to keep his mouth shut?

You idiot, she told herself. You've ruined everything. If Gene heard about…

Gene. All she had to do was tell Gene on Derek, and he would be fired so quick he'd be out before the concert. After all, she had plenty of pull with him. If necessary perhaps Paul would back her up as well. Then she stopped, feeling another wave of guilt. If Gene heard she had compromised the safety of the band…

"Shit," she muttered, shoving down her feelings. "This is just perfect…"

In her hands was a possible answer. After all, it was a trade. And perhaps it would be enough to stave Liz' appetite to have an autographed lunchbox from 1976…

"Hey, glad I found you Terri!" Chris bumped into her.

"Hi…" she said slowly, backing away.

"Hey, Gloria needs some help in the guy's dressing room. Since you were so helpful last night…"

"Oh," Terri said.

"Better get back there… they're already in the inner sanctum," he said. She knew instantly what he meant, and hastened to the dressing room. Joe was on one side, another burly fellow to the left.

"Uh Gloria needs me," Terri said.

"Go right on in Miss… you're just in time…" Joe said. He glanced at the lunchbox.

"What's that?"

"My cousin sent it to me…" Terri said hastily as they opened the door and let her in. Huge crates, which were portable wardrobes, were in the main part, and the rest of the room was screened off with the legendary superman sheet. She heard good-natured ribbing coming from inside, and saw Gloria stick her head out.

"Hey, just in time…." She said. "Maybe you can light a fire under their butts?"

"I dunno…" Terri said, moving in under the sheet into a different world. Instantly she saw the four makeup mirrors, with their occupants before them. There before her was a ritual any fan would die to see. Especially twenty years ago.

Already Peter had lined up his Steins and started his white foundation. At the mirror next to him sat Ace, smirching blue eyeshadow around his eyes. A tube of silver paint stood at the ready with a brush and several blank sponges. Several small bristled brushes and electric blue paint was being opened.

Closest to the door, Paul Stanley held up a picture with one hand, while dabbing black makeup around his right eye with a sponge. His long hair was tied back by a white bandanna. She realized she had never before seen this in real life. Next to him was Gene, filling in the patches of skin outlined by the white he'd already painted on. All of them exchanged various verbal pot shots while they worked. Not a makeup girl was in sight. That came later, or so Gloria said. For any final touches. A cloud of baby powder hit her full in the face when a puff flew across the room. It landed right at Terri's feet.

"Who did that?" Ace looked back and forth, pretending not to know who it was.

"Hey Terri!' Paul grinned. "Sight for sore eyes…"

"Hi Paul," she said, trying to hide her initial nervousness. She walked over, holding up the lunchbox.

"Can you do me a big favor?"

"Sure?" he asked.

"Could you please sign this for me? My cousin's a big fan. And I hope it's not an abuse of power…"

"Sure…" Paul said, taking the box. He set down his brush and picked up a flair tipped marker, resting the box on his lap. "What's her name?"

"Liz." She said automatically. Paul wrote something in his distinctive handwriting, and signed it with a flourish. He handed it back to Terri with a smile.

"There you go!"

"Thanks," Terri nodded, breathing a sigh of relief.

"I haven't seen these things for a while," Paul commented. "This thing looks like an original…"

"Yeah," Terri said as she backed away. "Thanks so much…"

"No problem," Paul winked at her.

"Would it be a problem… if Liz met you after the show? I hope…"

"Does she have a pass?" Paul asked.

"Uh… no…"

"Easy enough to get one. Just see Joe," Ace chimed in.

"Is that what you told Christy to do?" Peter teased him.

"Yeah…" Ace nodded, smirching silver on his cheeks.

"Better not keep the Demon waiting," Paul grinned. He suddenly nudged her towards Gene's table. Teri gasped when a strong arm grabbed her from behind, and yanked her down. She tumbled into Gene's lap, right in the middle of his lipstick application.

"Oh damn…" she cursed.

"Look what dropped in," Gene grinned, not at all mad.

"I feel kind of stupid…"

"You don't feel stupid to me, baby," he whispered seductively. She gasped as he lowered his lips to claim hers, holding her there on his lap. Greasepaint moved over her mouth, leaving its mark

"It's a real one!" Paul suddenly said as Terri shifted in Gene's arms.

"Does it have a thermos?" Ace cackled.

"Say, what's this?" Gene asked, as Paul passed over the lunchbox. He saw the Starchild's John Hancock already scrawled in black marker.

"Uh… just a souvenir for my cousin…"

"Well, is she a Paul fan?" he asked.

"Yes…"

"Hmm, we can't have that can we?" he said, whipping out a felt tip pen.

"You don't have to…" Terri got out as Gene signed his name near Paul's

"It's worth far more with all of us, sweetheart," he said. "Peter! Think fast!"

Gene tossed it over to Peter, who caught it neatly. Despite Terri's protest Peter turned it over.

"What the hell is this?"

"Sign it," Gene commanded. "Unless you want a disappointed fan."

Peter added his signature and passed it to Ace, who gave it a quick look. He pulled out a silver pen, and shook it up. Before he signed his own name he opened the box, peering inside.

"Negatory on the thermos," he announced. "But what's this?"

Terri let out a gasp of protest, tensing on Gene's lap. "Hang on, they're just screwing around," Gene assured her.

"Hey, this is for you Paul!" Ace shouted, holding up a letter. Paul got up from his table and went to take it, but Ace held it out of his grasp.

"Give it here, you putz!" Paul laughed.

"Hey, not so fast…" Ace said with a mischievous wink.

"Give it over, dipstick!" Paul laughed. Ace played keep away till finally Paul snatched it from his hand.

"Yours courtesy of Space Ace express," he cackled. Quickly he added his name, and tossed the box over to Gene, who caught it neatly. He presented it to Terri.

"There you go. Signed sealed, and delivered. Show that to your cousin!"

"Oh you didn't have to…" she groaned.

"I did," Gene smiled, nosing into her hair with a cute growl. She felt white paint against her cheek, and let out a low moan.

"Gene…" she said, pulling back. "I have a problem…"

It was now or never. Should she tell him about Derek?

"What's that, baby? What's wrong? You look nervous…" he asked, stroking her hair. "They move you into that apartment yet…"

"Uh… no…"

"Why not?" Gene asked.

"Something about the place not meeting earthquake code," Terri sighed.

"What the hell?" Gene muttered.

"And worse the movers are going to charge me an arm and a leg to store it… my stuff…"

"That's it," Gene snapped. "You're staying somewhere else…"

"Where?"

"Well you can stay with me…" Gene suggested. "There's plenty of room in the storage area for your furniture… what you want to keep…"

"Gene I couldn't possibly…"

"Why not?" he asked.

"But I couldn't presume to impose… and I… I… well kind of expected having my own place…"

"Well, you can take your time to find a good place then. Besides, it's not a problem, believe me…"

"I… well… never thought you'd…"

"I'd really feel better if you would stay with me," Gene whispered.

"I… have to think about it…"

"I can understand if you're a little nervous about it," Gene said. "I don't ask just anyone, you know."

"Should I read this now or later?" Paul asked Terri, holding up the letter. By now he had finished his makeup, and stood up to get the rest of his costume on.

"You might want to read it later," Terri suggested. Paul held the letter close to his heart and grinned, before moving out into the changing area.

"You'd better get a move on, you know how Gloria gets when you' run late," Terri peered up at Gene.

"Whatever you say, doll," Gene grinned, as Terri rose from his lap. He stood up, fixing the last touches of makeup on his face. Slow warmth crept into her when she realized what had just happened. Gene had actually wanted her to move in with him?

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"Let's haul ass!" Doc McGee shouted, poking his head into the door of the dressing room. Terri looked up from helping Gene on with his costume. It had been a fun game buckling on the various pieces of his armor. Strange to think how she was having as much fun putting something on him as taking it off. Periodically he licked his lips playfully while she worked, unnerving her a number of times.

"ShowTime!" Ace cackled, thrusting his arms into his wristbands.

"Let's do it!" Paul grinned.

"Here we go again," Peter sighed, gearing him mentally to resist the pain that would surely come. Already Gloria had a pan of water ready for him when he would return from the long concert.

"Break a leg," Terri whispered up to Gene, who now towered over her on his dragon boots. He held out his arm while she fastened the cloak at his elbows and wrists. When she had finished he drew her close and lifted her to press a last kiss to her lips for luck.

She watched all four figures stride out, larger then life. Slowly her breath seeped out as she steadied her heart. Various emotions churned within. Quickly she rushed out past the guards. Within minutes she was hastened to the elevator to take her place with Allison. With her she carried the precious lunchbox.

"Hey, Chris!" she shouted , rushing up to him.

"Yeah, what's up Terri?"

"If any of your boys meet a Liz with a VIP pass, give her this okay?" Terri called out. "And if she mentions my name, have her wait outside the dressing room…"

"Okay! She a friend?"

"Yeah!" Teri shouted, rushing off.

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When the show drew to a close, Terri excused herself from the pyro board, under Allison's blessing. She had a certain stop to make first before the dressing room. IN a matter of minutes she worked her way down to the gate leading backstage. Anxiously she glanced around for any sign of Liz.

"Terri!" Chris shouted, grabbing her arm. "I found her. She's waiting for you at the gate…"

"Okay…" Terri breathed as Chris directed her to the gate where the VIP's were already being admitted. It was all they could do to hold back the steady stream of people struggling to break past the human wall.

Someone pushed past, her blond hair bouncing as she moved up to Terri.

"Hey!" she cried. "I made it!"

"Great…"

"thanks for getting my lunchbox signed…" she clapped. "My god are we going to see them?"

"I hope…" Terri muttered. "C'mon…"

Chris escorted them along the line of fans, all eagerly lined up at the door of the dressing room. They stared enviously at Terri and Liz walking past. Already the door swung open, and the road security kept the pushing lines away. KISS walked out, a matched set in silver in a single line. They glanced back and forth ad the assembled crowds.

"One at a time… and have your stuff ready for autographing…" Doc shouted. These were those who were just fortunate enough to have the passes for the autograph lines. All four busied themselves scrawling their names, looking exhausted. Finally they were shoved back into the green room by road security, when Joe checked his watch.

"C'mon…" Chris urged. "Lets wait till the crowd goes down. Gloria needs some more help again. Gene won't take his costume off without it…"

"OMG are we going to meet them?" Liz gasped.

Already Mike, another guard, was escorting a young woman in blue minidress. Derek stood to another side, making a strange face at Terri. Chris thumped on the door, and it was swung open.

They were pushed inside, and Terri shoved Liz in front of her before she herself entered.

Already several girls were present, and Paul was pressing kisses to a blond and a brunette. Gene had a tall sexy redhead on his lap, and was talking to her in low seductive tones. When she stood up she turned around, showing off her firm smooth butt.

Gene gave it a rather experimental pinch, when he rose to join her. He leaned over to press a kiss to a blond, whose breasts jiggled in her overstuffed halter-top. Terri felt the green eyed monster bite her in the gut. Suddenly she wanted to hide herself in the deepest hole, and hope that she couldn’t' be found.

"Oh god… there he is!" Liz gasped, grabbing Terri's arm. She held to her like a lifeline, and Terri's heart sank. Sighing, she tugged Liz over to Paul.

"Who is this?" Ace cackled.

"Well, hello Pauline!" Paul grinned, winking his star covered eye at Liz. "Are you the pretty little thing that sent me that letter special delivery…"

"Oh my fucking god," she stammered when Paul walked up to her, picking up her hand and pressing a soft kiss to the back. Terri moved away, but Paul said, "so, you came all the way here just to visit your cousin, eh?"

"Yes," Terri got out, and jabbed a stunned Liz in the ribs. Liz nodded, her eyes fixed on Paul's bared chest.

"Hey, take it easy!" Ace cackled, drawing Christy into his arms. He took her by the hand over towards the sofa to one side.

Terri suddenly felt invisible, for Gene was still whispering something to the tall blond. Quickly she turned to leave the room, wanting to be as far way from Gene and KISS as possible. She didn't want them to see her chin wobbling as she clenched her jaw.

Paul had taken Liz by the hand, and was already sitting down on the sofa, patting the place next to her. She lowered herself, still in awe as she clutched her destroyer lunchbox. As Terri tried to leave, she saw Derek give a smug grin, and move in her way. Groaning she turned around, unable to be sure of what to do next.

Gene spotted her, unbeknownst, and sneaked up behind Terri. Grabbing her he put hands over her eyes, with a low growl.

"Guess who, baby," he whispered. Terri made no answer, and moved out of his grasp.

"Hey…" Gene said, gripping her shoulder firmly. "Doesn't this Demon get a welcome?"

"Seems like you've had a warm one already," Terri turned, only glancing briefly at him. Anger boiled up in her stomach, the green monster squirming in her gut. She wasn't sure if she wanted to throw up or scream at him.

"Hey, comes with the territory. You think I dig hanging with these guys?"

"Why not, you've got the makeup on. You and those clowns always love a good circus."

Gene laughed deeply. Terri sighed, and turned away from him, not making eye contact. She felt hot tears well up in her eyes and didn’t' want Gene to have the satisfaction of seeing them.

"I thought Gloria needed help," Gene grinned, and turned her to face him. She looked down, not able to look him in the face. "And I needed the company…"

"Why? You've got more then enough fun for all," she laughed ironically. "What do you need me for?"

Moving his hand from her shoulder she turned and walked away, wanting the world to swallow her up. Gene moved in front of her, hands on her arms.

"Baby, what's wrong?" he asked.

"If you have to ask…" she said slowly, voice rising in pitch.

"What…" Gene demanded.

"Let me go, Gene…" she said firmly. "Now…"

"Terri… what the hell is going on here?" Gene asked, those eyes staring into hers.

"I don't know! Why don't you enlighten me?" she shouted back.

"Come with me," Gene said, grabbing her by the hand. When he realized she wouldn't come willingly, and pulled against him he reached down and picked her up by the waist. She shrieked with protest as he carried her into the back room.

"Put me down you brute!" she shouted. He kicked open the door, and slammed it behind him, and set her down on the sofa.

"What the hell was that about?" he demanded, voice rising in volume.

"What do you care! Except your stupid goddamned image!" she shot back, eyes livid with anger. She wasn't going to be intimidated at all.

"Wait a minute…" Gene breathed, trying to grip his self-control. "That is not what this is about…"

"Then why am I so pissed off that I want to smack the shit out of you?" she shrieked.

"Not so loud!" he whispered, mimicking tuning down imaginary volume.

"Are you afraid your adoring fans will hear?" she sobbed, unable to control the tears that threatened to form.

"Terri, something's crawled up your ass, and I want to know what it is now…"

"I… oh shit… this is stupid. Why am I even…"

"Terri, talk to me, now," Gene repeated, lowering his voice. He knelt in front of her, stopping her from getting up as he pushed her gently to the sofa again. She hid her face in her hands, but Gene gently pulled her hands away, his eyes softening in the black mask of paint.

"I have nothing to say."

"Well I think you do…"

Terri bit her lip, meeting his gaze with hers. Gene wiped the tears from her eyes with a gloved hand.

"Look at me. Talk to me. What is going on here… please…" he sighed.

"I don't mean to be petty.. and stupid… but… oh god…"

"You're jealous…" he said softly. "Aren't you?"

"Yes," she got out, voice choked in her throat. "I didn't think it would get me… I just… I'm so angry and yet I can't… I know you say you're a slut when it comes to women… and I know you are what you are… but… I just…"

"Now I want you to get one thing straight, love," he said firmly, fixing her eyes into his. "You're the one that I'm going to wake up to, in the middle of the night…"

"Gene… I know that…but… it's just so hard… I didn't think it would be… I love you so much… it hurts… sometimes…"

She felt her words choked off when he seized her and pulled her into his arms. Even if she wanted to protest she couldn't when he worked his tongue into her mouth. Up and down her back his hands gripped, as if trying to keep her from vanishing from their grasp. A hot wave shot from her groin to her face, flushing it with hot blood. Anger melted into fierce passion. He lowered her onto the couch, pressing her under his weight.

She gasped as he worked his tongue down her neck, a low growl following gentle but firm clenching of his teeth on her neck. A gasp shuddered her and she arched under him when he bit down on her neck for a minute. Fingers grabbed at her shirt, pulling it roughly so she was forced to raise her arms over her head.

"Gene what are you doing…" she got out in a low moan.

"you, baby… and only you," he hissed under his breath, desire darkening his eyes. This was insane! One minute she wanted to strangle him, the next…

It all happened so fast, his hot tongue bathing her chest, her bra being unfastened and torn away by his firm hands. They kneaded and gripped her flesh demandingly, and she suddenly realized this was what Allison had said.

"You don't have to prove anything to me…"s he got out.

"Yes I do…" he whispered. "If this is what I must do to convince you how much I want you… and only you…"

Fear shuddered her, but it vanished when he lowered his lips to hers and gave her a gentle kiss this time. Not a Demon kiss, but a warm wet open mouthed one that made her moan. It was as if he was reassuring her that Gene was still there on some level. His hands moved on her pants, unbuttoning them and pulling the zipper down. He stripped them off, and she felt the cold metal of his boots against spandex. The sensation of metal to flesh made her gasp.

"Oh God… this is crazy!" she shouted, then stifled her cry. Her underwear was ripped aside, and she felt him stroke his tongue down her belly to just above her dark patch of hair. She stifled a shriek when he stroked teasingly down one leg, and stopped just before her aching need.

"How badly do you want me, baby…"

"The question is," she gritted. "How badly do you want me?"

It took all her strength, but she actually rolled him over off the sofa, landing on top of him. This took him totally by surprise as she pinned him under her, though she weighed a fraction of him, it was enough to knock the wind from the Demon.

"Oh baby, now you are being a bad girl!" he laughed, amused.

"yes… and what are you going to do about it?" she asked, straddling him as she felt cold metal under her hot flesh. She pinned his arms down, leaning forwards to brush her chest against his lips. As he reached to touch her she moved just out of reach. Gene was in pure shock. No woman had done this to him before, and he could feel his aching need hardening fast.

"I take it this means you're not pissed at me?" Gene asked, glancing up at her with a slow smile on his lips.

"Shut up and kiss me you son of a bitch," she laughed, and leaned over to press a kiss to his lips. Instead she buried her face in his neck, biting down lightly. Gene worked one hand free, stroking it up her thigh as he managed to reach her inner thigh. She stifled a gasp, her whole body arching on top of his, still fully costumed.

She slipped fingers under the armor, undoing the fastenings at the neck, and practically ripping each piece off as best she could. The lower parts flew off, till she sat on his already erect need that mirrored her own. Control shifted yet again when she felt his mouth on her erect nipples, gently nipping at each one. She worked a hand down into his costume, her hand closing around him, working him expertly. He had to admit he hadn't expected this, for she had just the right touch. It was maddening to feel her fingers working up and down his length.

"Damn…" he growled, shuddering under her. "I want you now…"

"Really?" she asked.

"now…" he whispered, almost a command. She tugged down his leggings just enough so Gene felt cold air on his hottest parts. Sweat beaded on his white makeup, and she ran her tongue over it to lick it away. In one quick motion he rolled over, wrapping her legs around his waist and entering her in one savage thrust. She stifled a scream as he shoved into her hard.

"Oh god…"

"Are you all right," he gasped. "Let me know if it hurts…"

"I couldn't' care less now…" she gasped. "Do me, and do me good!"

Gene pulled her buttocks onto his knees, tilting her back as he clenched a hand around her neck to support it. His thrusts increased, pistoning in and out as she rocked along with him. Her legs tightened achingly around him, pushing him deep inside.

"Yes that's it baby, fuck me!" Gene laughed. "Give it to me good!"

Terri laughed when her mind flickered back to the XXX flick they had seen the night before. Gene stopped, amused at her reaction. He pulled her up roughly, wanting to know what was so funny.

"That was original!" she laughed.

"Shall we continue," he asked, stifling a laugh himself, and interrupting her with another savage thrust that brought a loud shriek to her throat. His teeth closed on her neck, burying his groans as he clenched down. She plunged her own teeth into his neck, biting hard just under his choker. Her first wave of orgasm rose hard and fast, scream muffled into Gene's neck. He hissed in mingled pleasure and pain at the force of her teeth on his sensitive skin, relishing the wash of pleasure. She felt him tense and ready on the verge as he shoved himself deep inside in one last thrust. Head thrown back, she glimpsed his eyes squeezed shut in the mask of black and white.

"Gene, you okay in there?" someone thumped on the door. Terri suddenly tensed inside, hear heart pounding in fear of discovery.

Gene didn't seem to give a damn, even if he did hear. Again the pounding grew more urgent, and she could hear Paul's voice.

"Gene! We gotta go now!!!" came Peter's voice.

Terri opened her mouth to say something, but was cut off by Gene's deep kiss. Again she heard the voices and pounding at the door.

Seconds later, it burst open, and a few faces glanced in. She heard Ace's cackle, and a muffled exclamation from Peter.

"Oh man!" Paul got out, a mixture of shock twisting the black star into a frown.

"Oh shit…" Terri half laughed, pinned under his greater weight. Rather unsuccessfully she tried to hide under Gene, who glanced at the rest of the band casually.

"Are we interrupting something?" Peter asked.

"What the hell are you doing Gene?" Paul shouted.

Ace drew a hand across his neck, and pulled the door shut behind him as he walked out of the dressing room. Terri shrunk down next to Gene, who still clasped her on his knees.

"Better get yourselves together and get a room," Peter urged. "Cause people were starting to wonder. Peter tossed a robe to them, and Terri slipped it on while both Paul and Peter looked discreetly away.

"What does it look like, Paul?" Gene asked, matter of fact.

"I thought you knew better man!" Paul shouted at Gene, looking away. Terri got off Gene's lap, and let him help her up. He pulled at his costume, slipping on his bodysuit and spandex again.

"There was something important I had to do, Paul," Gene snorted back. "Since when did you get on my ass for taking a woman back here?"

"Since now! Dammit Gene, do you know what could happen?"

"Who and where I choose to do it is none of your fucking business!" Gene bellowed at Paul. Terri felt hot anger shoot through her, and she for a moment wanted to step in.

"Paul, shut the hell up!" Peter finally exploded. "I'm sick of you playing the godamned moral advocate here! What Gene does is his business, so lighten up! Jesus Christ!"

"Keep out of this, Peter!" Paul shot back.

"Shut up all of you!" Terri screamed, putting hands over her ears. "My sex life is none of your damned business! Especially yours, Paul!"

She was so angry she was shaking, eyes afire with rage. In that moment Paul backed down, and retreated.

"Chill guys," Ace suddenly poked his head in. "I mean god… what is going on here? World war three?"

"Nothing, dude, just a little pissing contest," Peter snorted in disgust. "When are you two gonna grow up! Shit… I'm outta here. I've gotta meet the wife and daughter. I don't have time for this shit. And if you had any sense Paul, you'd back off! And you Gene… watch it before you fuck up a good thing!"

Peter rarely looked so pissed, Terri noticed. It scared the hell out of her, and she felt Gene's hand grip hers. Everyone shut up, when Paul folded arms across his chest and Ace shook his head.

"Man, what is the deal with you guys?" Ace asked.

"Don't even start, Spaceman," Paul growled. Gene remained silent, his stare piercing holes in Paul. Ace grabbed Paul's arm, muttering, "Your groupie's wondering where the hell you are, man… you aren't' gonna keep her waiting are you?"

" Why don't you go get dressed, Terri?" Gene asked, voice low. He handed Terri a fresh T-shirt from the pile near his clothes, along with a fresh pair of his jeans.

Ace said, "I already chased the vultures out…"

"Gene?" Terri asked, glancing from him to Paul.

"Go on sweetheart. I'll send someone to pick you up later and bring you home. Okay? Trust me…"

"Go with him," Paul said softly. "I'm sorry I lost it…"

Terri disappeared into the bathroom, and Ace slipped back out into the dressing area. Leaving Paul and Gene to regard each other.

"Sorry I lost it, dude," Paul sighed.

"Forget it," Gene said. "It's not me you're pissed off at, is it?"

"No," Paul sighed. "But I just want you to watch it. You never know who might be hiding waiting to snap a picture…"

Terri emerged, in a pair of borrowed Levis, which she had to roll up considerably, along with one of Gene's button up shirts on. She slipped on her shoes.

"Why don't you go with Paul and your groupie friend?" Gene asked. "You gonna hang here?"

"I'm gonna go home…" Paul sighed. Terri looked to Gene, who nodded that she should leave. She joined Paul, shaking her hair. They strode out, while Ace took Christy, and Paul left with both Liz and Terri on his arms.

"I'm sorry," Paul said to Terri as they walked along. "I should have kept my nose outta your business..."

"Thanks Paul… for being concerned. But I can take care of myself…"

Paul leaned over, and pressed a kiss briefly to Terri's lips. "Just let me know if you need anything…"

"Go home Paul," Terri laughed.

"All right girl! You rock!" Liz laughed, slapping Terri on the back.

"Have fun…" Terri said while she watched Paul and Liz disappear. Ace followed with Christy's arm around his narrow hips. He gave Terri the thumbs up.

She sank into a chair in the hallway for a moment to calm down. Still her adrenaline surged from the things Gene had done. It was frustrating and excited to have been caught in the act.

"You had fun, didn't you?" came a voice near her. She snapped open her eyes, to see Derek standing there.

"I have to get going," she said, moving away.

"Getting a little close to the guys, aren't we?" he asked.

"Shut up and leave me alone… I just want to get to bed…" she sighed.

"I wouldn't be so cold, Terri," Derek clicked his tongue. "After all, we wouldn't want to let everyone know about how sweet you are on one of the guys…"

"What exactly do you mean by that?" Terri asked, whirling around.

"Aw, hit a nerve? Well I might be persuaded to shut my mouth… for a price…"

"You think they'd believe you?" she asked with a laugh.

"We all know how you got this job. Everyone's been talking about it. How you went to bed with one of them so you could get employed…"

"So what? You're so big on getting sex from the groupies, why the hell do you care who I'm sleeping with or not?"

"It's amazing how much a gossip magazine will pay… for a story…"

"You'd jeopardize your career for that?" she asked.

"Please, you think I wanna spend the rest of my life kissing KISS ass?" he laughed. "They're a bunch of old has-beens! Loaded with dirt and stories. A lot of papers and magazines will pay more then I make in a year for a story… or a picture?"

"Picture?" Terri asked.

"As in with a certain band member, and a pyrotechnician. I scared you didn't I? I saw you come out of their dressing room."

"Get stuffed!" Terri shouted back. "You don't have the balls to do it!"

"Are you so sure? You're in the public domain, girl. Unless you want to give me a little compensation I'll take this to the inquirer…"

"Take what?"

"I know you slept with Paul Stanley. And I have the pictures to prove it. I'm sure Pamela will really get a rise out of seeing that you're the other woman. But if you give me a little piece of your action… I'll forget I ever saw you two together…"

"I have nothing more to say to you…" Terri snapped. Just then Derek shut up as they saw Allison poke her head in.

"There you are Terri!"

"Allison, I need to ask you a question…"

"Better watch it," Derek laughed, and leaned close to breathe in Terri's ear. "You don't know how long this tour's gonna last."

"You okay girl?" Allison asked.

"I… I've been better…"

"I heard about you and…"

"Please I need to go…" Terri said, and rushed away from Allison with Derek standing there. Allison rushed after Terri. As fast as she could she ran to the front of the stadium.

******************************************

"Terri, girl, what's wrong?" Allison asked, grabbing her arm.

"That guy's nuts…" Terri whispered. "He says he has pictures of me and Paul… together…"

"What?" Allison asked.

"Yes… he says if I don't sleep with him he'll go to the press…"

"Shit, girl, why didn't you say something before?" Allison gasped. "You gotta tell Paul."

"No… if I tell Paul…"

"Then tell Gene. If you don't I will!"

"But Allison, you're Gene's ex girlfriend. What if he has dirt on you and him?"

"Shit, he wouldn't dare…"

"Sweetheart, you tell Gene, and you tell him tonight! I'm gonna tell Paul about this…"

"No… I want Gene to tell Paul… when I get up the courage."

"I'm taking you home," Allison said. "Besides, I know where Gene lives."

"I can't go there… what if someone sees me?"

"Girl… he asked you to move in with him, didn't he?" Allison asked.

"Yes… but I hadn't exactly said yes…"

"What are you nuts?" Allison asked, eyes widening. "Why not?"

"I'm scared! Why can't I just stay at the hotel tonight?"

"Scared of what?" Allison asked, taking her shoulders. "Look, didn't I say you gotta be honest. He's gonna be worried sick about you if you don't come home and call him from some damn hotel. What better place for you to be, especially with that Derek puke?"

"He said everyone was talking about me and Paul…"

"Well at least they aren't talking about you and Gene. And I swear to God I didn't tell anyone. Gene's my friend, and I want him to be happy. And girl, you are the best thing to happen to him in a long time…"

********************************************************

When Allison pulled up to Gene's home, Terri saw that his cars were still in the driveway. Allison walked her up the walkway, clutching her hand. Terri didn't know what she was going to do. Especially when Allison keyed in the code and Gene opened the door, his tall frame silloutted in the light of the door behind him.

"Terri, Allison," he called out to them. "Great, you brought her back… you okay?"

"She's just a little shaken, not stirred," Allison said, nudging Terri toward Gene. "Go on…"

Gene held out his hand to Terri, who threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. Looking over her shoulder Gene waved goodbye to Allison. She felt his kiss on the top of her forehead softly.

"Welcome home baby," he said. Terri continued to bury her head in his chest, not sure of what to do. Gene shut the door, and guided her into the sitting room.

"Gene... about earlier," Terri got out as he sat her down on the sofa. He disappeared before she could say anything further, and returned with a can of diet coke and a glass for her, and Fresca for himself.

"I'm sorry the guys got into our business. Don’t worry about it. Paul apologized. It's not your fault…" Gene said. "I'm impressed how you stood up to all of us dicking around…"

She gasped at the feel of his hands on her shoulders, slowly rubbing out the tension. He let out a mutter of surprise at how tight the muscles were. She felt tears forming in her eyes at how good his hands felt on her.

"Damn, you're freaking tense. What's wrong? Why are you so nervous?"

"Gene… I have to tell you something…" she got out.

"You know you can tell me anything. It's better to get it out in the open. Like you did earlier. It took a lot of guts to say what you did… and I'm proud of you for doing so…"

"What?" she asked.

"I'll admit I can't control my goddamned hormones," he laughed. "It's not every day…"

"Gene please listen to me," she turned around, gripping his hand. "Someone's trying to intimidate me… and I'm not sure what the hell to do!"

"Who is doing what?" Gene asked, gripping her hand. "Tell me."

"I hope it doesn't screw up things. They've been so good… but…"

"Terri, just say it, okay? Who is it?" he asked, his eyes darkening with anger. It frightened her and touched her simultaneously.

She drew in a deep breath, and said, "There's this guy in the road security who says he's got pictures of me and Paul… and god help me Gene he says if I don't go to bed with him he'll sell them to the paper!"

"He what?" Gene growled. "Who is it? If he thinks he can get away with…"

Gene leapt up, his hands forming fists. It was all he could do to keep his temper under control. He turned around for a moment, and Terri wasn't sure of what he would do.

"And what's worse is, the reason he's doing it is because he caught me giving a VIP pass to Liz! He said that it was against the rules… and I was afraid that if I told you you'd be pissed at me for jeopardizing the security of the band…"

"Why didn't you tell me sooner? How long has this been going on?" Gene asked, his voice quiet, yet full of anger.

Terri felt a sinking feeling in her stomach, as Gene kept his back turned. She wasn't sure if he was angry with her or not. But she didn't care. Because she had told him the truth.

"I was afraid you wouldn't trust me…" Terri got out, putting her head in her hand. "And that you wouldn't love me anymore…"

Gene whirled around, and leaned over her. She felt his hands take the sides of her face, and meet her gaze with his, "Let me get something straight with you. I trust you. And I know that you wouldn't do anything to hurt the guys and me. But you have to tell me when people are treating you like this. I want to know the whole story… from start to finish. Everything about this puke, and what he said!"

In halting breaths she told him everything, trying to remember every word that was exchanged. Gene listened patiently, finally sitting down next to her and holding her hand. She knew he'd remember and help her fill in any gaps with careful questions.

"So Liz isn't my cousin…"

"You just wanted to show Derek a lesson by letting her in, huh?" Gene asked.

"He said it was against the rules for me to do that. I only did it because he was demanding Liz to give him head…"

"You're a personal friend of the band. It's perfectly okay. You should have just asked me instead of jumping to conclusions," Gene sighed. "And anyway, you know that the guys have Carte blanch to keep the groupies to a minimum…"

"Even if they use sex to intimidate? God damn it Gene, that's not right! Especially if they go through with it and risk getting nothing in return? It's disgusting!" And what makes it worse is this shithead gets a power trip out of it! He's turning away fans… who pay a hell of a lot to see you and the guys! Can you afford to loose your fan base this late in the tour?"

"You've got a point," Gene shook his head. "Now as for this asswipe, leave him to me. I'll fire him so fast that…"

"Gene… what if he does sell the pictures to the press?"

"Wait, how do you know he has pictures?" Gene asked, getting a sudden thought. "Did he show you any?"

"No. Perhaps he doesn't have any. But if he tells Pamela about me… I'm so scared Gene…"

"What makes you think Paul's gonna believe some snot nosed kid over you?" Gene asked. "Look at this logically. And anyway…"

"Gene… you can't just fire him. I don't want you or Paul to get hurt because of me…"

"Then what do you want me to do?" Gene asked her. "Help me out here. I trust you. Why can't you trust me?"

"I want to Gene, I'm trying… very hard…" she sighed. "I am so used to depending on myself…"

"You aren't alone…"

"Gene… we have to beat this shit at his own game… outsmart him…"

"Yeah…" Gene nodded, getting a wicked grin on his face. "Exactly. How would you like to do a little payback?"

"I'd do anything to nail his ass to the wall," she said.

"Good, that's my girl," Gene laughed.

"But what about the roadies… I mean can't you do something to make them stop asking for sexual favors for desperate fans?"

"You drive a hard bargain, sweetheart," Gene sighed again. "But I'll speak to Joe about some other ways to handle the groupie situation…"

"Thank you," she whispered, leaning close and pressing a kiss to his lips.

************************************************************

That next day, Derek wandered out to the back of the lot in search of groupies. It was already three thirty, and they seemed to be keeping their distance, camping out in their vans with their ice chests of beer and music blaring in the air. Some already had their war paint and costumes on, while others sported a myriad of KISS t-shirts.

So far he hadn't seen a sign of Terri. Had she given up and resigned? Still he wondered, but either way he had gotten what he wanted. Although a few go rounds with her might have made the whole deal very satisfying indeed.

Just then he saw a curvaceous blond at the gates, wearing a spaghetti strap mini-dress with a cardigan sweater over it. Curly hair ripped over her shoulders, and he realized how sexy her other curves were.

"Wait a minute, girl," he laughed, as she pushed her way into the gate. "You can't just come in here..."

"But I want to see KISS," she said, voice low and husky.

"A lot of people do. But since you're a sexy looking gal, you have a chance. But if you want a VIP pass… you can do me a little favor?"

"What?" she asked. "I'll do anything…"

"Anything? Well, the guys are pretty selective. They sometimes ask us to pick extra special girls. So how are you at going down?"

"Here?" she asked, with a slow laugh.

"So… you're really wanting it, huh?"

"Anything," she added, her eyes hidden by sunglasses. "But not here… is there someplace private we could go… so I could get to know you a little better? I'm sure you know all sorts of secret places… to um… get down to business…"

"C'mon…" Derek grinned, and pulled her behind him. He walked toward a trailer, and pushed her inside, glancing left and right.

"So, big boy, what did you have in mind?" she asked, running a hand over the KISS logo on his black shirt.

"A little chat, a little pleasure…" he grinned, shutting the door and locking it.

"Speaking of chat, you know all sorts of secrets about the band, I'll bet," she said, running her hand up and down his thigh as they sat on the sofa. It was one of the roadie's buses, with a small bathroom and sleeping quarters in back. He and three others often put their things here on long trips. The door to the bedroom was locked, and Derek wondered how long it would take to get her, or if she would just do it here… after all, it did take a lot of time to make the bed… and Mark always preferred him to leave that for later.

"Like what?"

She nosed into his hair, giving him a teasing lick down his earlobe. "Like the dirt on Paul and Pam? I heard that he left her for a pyrotechnician… and then because he felt guilty he gave her a job…"

"Really, you do know a lot of interesting stories…" Derek grinned.

"So is it true or not?"

"What if I said it was? That Paul is a single man again, or will be once the word gets out?"

"Ooh, I'd be ever so glad," she laughed lightly. "But you can't prove it can you?"

"As a matter of fact," Derek said, and rose. "Wait here."

He couldn't resist the opportunity. After all a few rumors among the groupies would make things all the more fun when he sold the story.

"I have pictures… I took of them… Paul and his mistress…"

"Paul and his mistress?" she laughed. "Really?"

"Uh uh, I like the mystery," he laughed, setting the envelope on top of the cabinet where she couldn't quite reach it. "Now… about our little agreement…"

"That is so clever. I bet you'd make a lot of money selling them…" she grinned.

"Well maybe. But do you feel lucky now…"

"I might be able to help you," she said. "After all, I do know a groupie that said she spent the night with Paul… last night after the concert. And she says that a pyrotechnician did let her in…"

Derek saw her stand up, and slip off her sweater in front of the blinds. He lowered them, so nobody could see in the small bus. She revealed firm large breasts, and a large tattoo on her arm of Paul's rose.

"What?"

"Her name's Terri Mason. Liz told me all about it. She works at the same store I was in. And she said all I had to do was say I was a relative of Terri's, and one of you boys would let me in…"

This was perfect, Derek grinned. Too good an opportunity to miss. He grabbed her hips, guiding her to sit next to him.

"I might be able to help you, prove that Terri and Paul were lovers. If I get half the rights to the story?"

She lifted her skirt, and he saw her garter stalking as she put one foot on his knee.

"Okay. But I need you to see if you can get Paul to say anything about her… and maybe if you can sneak backstage and get pictures…"

"You said you already had pictures…" she pouted.

"Well… not really…" he looked up at her. Just then there was a bang on the door, and someone shouting.

"Derek, I want to talk to you now! It's Terri…"

"Not now!" Derek shouted.

"Let me in! I need to talk to you! I give up!"

"Wait here," Derek said, and rose to get up. He opened the door a slit, and peered out. Sure enough there was Terri, her eyes red and full of tears. She looked disheveled, and desperate.

"So, you changed your mind? Can you wait a minute…"

"I hate him. I want to kill him! He left me for some goddamned groupie!"

"Whoa, wait a minute…" Derek asked. "Who?'

"Paul!" Terri sobbed. "I want to make that bastard pay!"

"C'mon in. I knew you'd be reasonable," Derek grinned. He led her inside, and Terri saw the blond.

"You have a visitor…" Terri kept to the door.

"No, she's someone who can help us. If you're serious about what you're saying…"

"I want Paul to suffer, and I don't care if my name is mentioned. Just as long as I get an equal share of the profits…"

"Who's this?" the blonde asked, rising to meet them both as she came to the door.

"Terri. So you're her huh?"

"Yeah," Terri nodded. "And if you're smart you'll stay away from Paul. All he wants is a piece of ass, and then it's goodbye!"

"Really… and to think I was going to sleep with him," she laughed. "All the more reason why he should pay…"

"So let's get those pictures and sell them. I don't mind if people see me," Terri said.

"One problem ladies. There aren't any pictures…"

"You're shitting me…" Terri got out. "Did you hear that?"

"Every last word," came a voice from the back of the bus. Suddenly Derek spun around to see Paul step out of the back bedroom, his mahogany eyes blazing. The blond stepped aside, and Derek turned to run. Terri blocked his way.

"OH shit…" he gasped. "It's not what you think…"

"Guess again, creep," Paul shouted, grabbing Derek by the throat and shoving him against the wall with such force it knocked the wind from him. He gasped as Paul's hand began to squeeze.

"It's a game… I was trying to expose these two girls whom…"

"Save it shithead! Because when I'm through with you…" Paul hollered. "You'll not know your ass from a hole in the wall!"

"You can't stop me from selling it to the press, even if you do beat the shit out of me! I'll sue you for assault and battery!"

"There won't be enough of you when I get done to sue!" Paul shouted.

"If Gene finds out about how you harassed your employees…"

"If Gene finds out what?" asked a deep voice. Gene Simmons stepped up behind Terri, and calmly entered.

"He's trying to kill me! Help!" Derek gurgled.

Suddenly the blond grabbed the envelope and shoved it into Gene's hand. Derek's eyes flickered anxiously as Gene began to open it. Several flat sheets fell into his hand, and he looked them over.

"You told me there weren't any pictures… and there were?" the Blond asked.

"So I lied. But those show that something was going on…"

"Kid, you're full of it," Gene laughed. "These aren't any use to him anyway."

"She's with him, in them! In his dressing room!" Derek sneered. "You can't prove anything…"

"When did you take those?" Gene asked. "It looks like it was one week ago…"

"Yeah…" Terri muttered. Indeed it was she and Paul, lying on the sofa together with Paul straddling her. Both were fully clothed, but the look on Paul's face was unmistakable.

"I put cameras in your dressing room. I just knew you'd screw up!" Derek sneered, even though Paul had him by the throat.

"You asshole, you were all set to ruin my one chance to make things up with Pam!" Paul screamed at him, shaking with fury. He slammed Derek into the wall, his fist raised to strike. Gene grabbed Paul's hand tightly restraining it.

"Don't bother. He's not worth it," Gene said calmly.

Paul let Derek slide to the floor, and turned away. Tears fell down his cheeks that he tried to hide. The blonde moved over and slapped Derek's face.

"That's for hurting my Paul you son of a bitch," she said.

"What?" Derek spat out blood.

"I'm Liz, you little shit. And I'm enjoying watching you squirm…" she spat in his face. "Paul told me the whole story last night…."

She moved over to Paul, resting a hand on him. He took it, tears still dripping down his cheeks. He couldn't bear to look anywhere but at the wall. His fist smashed into the wood panel, near Derek's head.

"If you ever even show your face around here again I'll kill you," Paul hissed.

"Easy…" Gene told him, holding him back. "Why don’t' you let me take it from here…"

"Paul I'm so sorry," Terri got out.

"It's not your fault," Paul sobbed. "Oh shit…"

Liz took his arm, and guided him out. He leaned his head on her shoulder and walked Paul out of the trailer. Trish glanced at Gene, tears in her eyes as she shook her head.

Derek snickered.

"Now asswipe, you're all mine," Gene gave a low growl. "You and I are going to have a little chat about this…"

Derek's smile vanished when Gene stood over him, not touching him. The look in his eyes alone was enough to make him shiver with fear.

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Later that night, Terri climbed the narrow steel ladder. She dropped her bathrobe, and tossed it over a deckchair. It was close to two am, and she needed to do this. Along the narrow metal beam she walked, till she stood on the edge. Taking a deep breath she jumped, tucking her body as she pitched face first.

Her body hung for a fraction in midair before slicing into the lit waters. They rippled for a moment till bursting away in a splash when she broke the surface of the pool. For a moment she trod water in the deep end, then shot out toward the shallows. Her body glided effortlessly, pushing aside water with ease. Till she reached the far end and shoved off to the deep again.

Back and forth she went, under the starry sky. Nothing but the brightest were visible in the haze of LA. The door slid open on the patio, and Gene slipped out, clad in a robe himself. He carried the towels over his arm toward the sound of the splashing.

Terri heard his wolf whistle, and reached the wall. Gene moved up to stand just by the edge, leaning over.

"Isn't it a little past your bedtime, little girl?" he asked.

"I just had to do something…" she sighed, folding her arms on the side of the pool. Her legs floated up, and Gene peered at her sizable breasts nestled in the one-piece suit. It was red, glistening wet droplets catching the light on her skin like the rhinestones on Ace and Paul's costumes.

"I feel so bad for Paul…" she added. "His heart's broken… and it's partly my blame…"

"No it's just fate. Shit happened, and it happened to Paul. He'll survive. And we'll make sure we're around to help him through this…"

"I wish there was more I could do… if I had said something about Derek sooner…"

"It's been dealt with, Terri," Gene said. "That little shit doesn't dare tell a soul anything. Not that he's behind bars… awaiting trial…"

"What did they get him with?" she asked.

"Breach of contract, extortion…"

"Oh… the money I gave him…" Terri realized.

"Yes," Gene said. "That I got back. It's sitting on your side of the bed… speaking of which…"

"I just saw the pool and couldn't resist a swim. It's been so long since I did…"

A mighty splash hit her back when Gene leapt in next to her. He bobbed down, and thrust his head up, shaking the curling masses of his hair out of the way.

Terri shoved off from the pool, rapidly swimming away. Gene moved close behind her, matching her pace. Back and forth they chased each other, till Gene finally caught up with her, grabbing her ankle.

"Got you…"

"No fair!" she shrieked. He playfully pushed her under, and she ducked between his legs to emerge in the shallows.

Gene bobbed once, then went down in a perfect pike dive to streak underwater after her. She gasped when he grabbed her by the back of her suit. She wriggled playfully, and suddenly broke free. A few splashes carried her away from Gene. He was calmly floating, not following.

"Forgetting something?" he asked, holding something aloft. Terri gasped when she realized he had her swimsuit!

"I'm gonna kill you!" she laughed, swimming up to him. Gene held the suit just out of her reach when she hurled herself onto him. He threw it into the bushes, far away from the pool.

"Now what are you going to do?" he laughed, holding her close to him under the water, wrapping her close in his arms as he gently pinned her to his body.

"This… is weird…" she gasped, feeling her bare breasts slick against his body.

"If you can't swim naked in your own pool you don't deserve to live in Beverly," Gene teased with a wicked grin in his eyes.

"Is that so?" she asked, and whipped off his own bathing suit. He gave a smug grin, and she realized he didn't give a damn whether he was wearing anything or not.

"Smooth move," he laughed, reaching for her again. She darted away, kicking water into his face. She reached the far wall seconds before he did, and let him pin her against the wall.

"Gotcha," he laughed, pressing up against her back deliciously.

"Gene… I'm just worried about Paul… will he be okay, really?"

"I don't know. But he has us in the Band. And you and I can make sure he'll be okay… all right? Besides, your pal Liz is sweet on him. And I'm sure he won't mind her shoulder to cry on… since they left the concert together…"

"Ouch, rebound," she groaned. "I don't know…"

"So what if they do sleep together?" Gene laughed. "A little sex never hurt Paul…"

"Even if it's a sympathy fuck?" she asked. Gene smiled at her crude language.

"That's his business. But Liz is nuts about him. And wants nothing more then to make him happy…"

"Well, at least he has someone," Terri said.

"And right now, I would very much like to make a certain sexy lady very happy…and very comfortable…"

"You mean here… in the pool?"

"Well… you never know…" Gene grinned, slipping her around in his arms. She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, and her legs around his waist. His hands stroked down her bare back, gripping her ass and caressing it. Terri gasped a low moan. But when he didn't do anything more, she wondered what would happen next. Till she felt him walking to the shallow end and setting her on the side before getting out himself.

"What?"

"I think you've had enough of a swim tonight," he said, and wrapped a towel around her. "Oh?" she laughed. Gene slipped on the robe, and scooped her up, towel and all as he carried her back to the house.

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