Let Me Know –Book One

By: Mary

Karen Yates sat backstage at the 1996 Grammy awards.She was waiting
to present the Grammy for best Soundtrack.She let out a soft sigh as
she checked herself in the mirror.Her dark shoulder lengeth hair hung
in curls framing her face.Her green eyes were big and bright.She
looked down at the silver evening dress.She smiled at Will Smith as
he walked by her."How are you doing Karen?"he asked."Good"Karen
said.Karen heard the MC annoucing her.Karen took a deep breath as she
heard all the wonderful things he was saying about her."Star of
Broadway stage and movies Karen Yates."he said in a booming
voice.Karen quickly took the stage holding the envlope.

Paul Stanley watched the young woman standing at the podium.It was
strange to be in his make up and costume after all these years."She's
a little hottie."Gene said as he came to stand next to Paul in the
wings.Paul smiled "Yeah she's a talented actress too."he said."How
many films has she been in now?"Gene asked as he tried to think."She
just finished making her seventh film."Paul said."Sounds like your a
fan."Gene said laughing."I guess I'am.I saw her on Broadway twice
when she did My Fair Lady."Paul said."Have you ever met her?"Gene
asked."No,We always seem to miss each other."Paul said."I read
something once about her being a big KISS fan."Gene said.Paul turned
around to look at Gene."Really?No way.She doesent look like a KISS
fan."Paul said with a laugh."We get from all walks of life buddy"Gene
said laughing.

Karen walked off the stage to thundress applause.She had her head
hung down when she bumped into the very tall man.She would of been
knocked off her feet if it hadent been for the mans strong arms
steading her."I'm sorry...."Karen said as she looked up to be met by
Paul Stanley in full make up.Paul could tell she was shocked as he
looked into her green eyes ."Thats alright.You ok?"Paul asked still
holding on to her arm."I...I..think so."Karen stammered."Its very
nice to meet you."Paul said as he let go of her arm.Karen looked
around was he talking about her."Me?"she said.Paul laughed he could
tell she was star struck."Yes you."he said with a chuckle."Its really
nice to meet you Mr.Stanley.I've been a fan sense I was eight years
old."she said regaining her composure."Stop your ageing me!and call
me Paul"Paul said in teasing voice.Karen gave a small laugh as Gene
walked up."Come on its show time."he said slapping Paul lightly on
the back.Paul nodded as he looked at Gene."It was very nice meeting
you.Maybe we can get together sometime."Paul said as he followed Gene
out to the stage.Karen watched as Ace and Peter walked past her.Karen
felt like a kid again as KISS took the stage in there make up and
costumes.Karen heard the aduince shouting and claping as they stood
on the stage.Karen couldent beleive it she had just seen
Gene,Paul,Ace and Peter in full make up after twenty years.Karen
rushed back stage to find a moniter so she could watch what was about
to happen.

Karen walked outside to the glare of flash bulbs.She smiled as she
made her way to the dark limo.She stoped once to smile for the camras
before she dunked her head into the car.She was a little disappointed
that she dident see KISS again before the Grammy Awards ended.Oh well
she thought as she reached into the small bar in the back of the
limo.She poured herself a glass of wine as the limo pulled away from
the curb."Whare to Ms.Yates?"Fred her driver asked."Back to the hotal
please."Karen said with a sigh.She had been invited to sevral
parties,but all Karen wanted to do was go back to the Hotal and check
on her two year old son Preston and go to bed.Karen looked out the
tinted windows of the limo.It had been one hell of a year for her.She
had gotten divorced ,won a Golden Globe for best supporting actress
in a movie,finished her seventh film and moved back to New York from
L.A. Karen reached into her small purse and pulled out her cell
phone.She needed to call her manger Kim and ask what time she needed
to be ready for the trailer they were filming tomorrow morning.Kim
answered on the first ring.'Hey Kim'Karen said.'How was the Grammy
Awards?'Kim asked.'It went well.'Karen said as she looked out the
window of the limo.'See!I told you it would be alright.'Kim
said.Karen laughed Kim knew she hated doing award shows.'What time
should I be ready for the trailer tomarrow?'Karen asked.'Around eight
in the morning.There going to start shooting a nine.You'll need to be
there to have your make up and hair done.'Kim said.Karen looked at
the clock in the back of the limo it was already two AM.'I need to
get some sleep!'Karen said.'What no invites to the after Grammy
parties!'Kim said in disbeleif.Karen laughed 'Yes I had invites but I
need to sleep more then party.'Karen said.'Speaking of sleep I need
to get some myself.I'll see you in the morning.'Kim said.Karen and
Kim said there goodbyes as the limo stoped in front of the Plaza
Hotal.

Paul removed his make up as he stood in the bathroom of Gene's guest
house.It was so late he figured he would just stay there tonight
rather then disturb Pam by coming in so late.His mind drifted back to
his meeting with Karen Yates.He tried to get her attention after the
Grmmies.She hadent seen him thoe as she rushed into her limo.He
really did admire her.He would of loved to have talked to her about
her work on Broadway.He had read that after her divorce a year ago
witch from what he had read was very messey she had moved back to New
York.He wondered if she planed on doing Broadway again.He shivered as
he splashed the cold water on his face to clean away the last of the
star child make up.He turned the light off and climbed into the full
size bed and was soon fast asleep.


Karen looked at her watch as she ran from the elevator.She knew she
was going to be late as she looked at her watch.It was almost seven
thirty.Preston had been fussy and kept her up most of the night.Even
thoe Karen had a nanny she still got up with him at night.Karen
pulled her sunglasses out of her purse as she walked out the doors of
the hotal.A few more days in L.A. and she would be heading back to
New York City.Karen hoped to stay in New York for awhile and just do
nothing.Fred was standing by the limo as she walked
outside."Thanks."Karen said as Fred opened the car door for her.Karen
got comfortable as she sliped her high heels off of her feet.She took
a deep breath and closed her eyes as the limo pulled away from the
curb.Soon the limo came to a stop in front of the studio whare they
were going to film the trailers for the up coming movie that was to
be coming out in two months.Karen sliped her high heels back on as
she as she opened the door of the limo and steped out into the bright
L.A. sun.Karen walked inside the studio to see her manger Kim looking
over some of the quistions they planed on asking her."Cuting it
close!"Kim said as the make up artist rushed out of the back room to
escort Karen inside to have her make up done."I know!"Karen said as
she walked into the make up room.Karen took a seat in the make up
chair and pulled the hair clip from her long mane of brown hair.Karen
shook her head as she looked at the dark circles under her eyes."Wow
I look awful!"she said as the make up artist started to apply her
make up."You have wonderful skin.You just look tired thats all.Your a
beautiful woman."the make up srtist said.Karen smiled at her."What
ever!"she said with a small laugh.No matter how famous Karen was she
never felt like a beautiful woman.Maybe it came from all the years of
being told she was ugly and fat by her classmates in school.Kim came
into the room just as the make artist was finishing up."Ok Karen.I
screened the quistions.None about your divorce or about Preston."she
said as she handed the papers to Karen to look over."Thanks"Karen
said as the hair dresser started to run a brush through her curley
hair."Were ready Ms.Yates." the stage hand said as he poped his head
in the door."I'll be right there."Karen said giving him a bright
smile.Karen answered all the quistions as the camra rolled.She smiled
and laughed as she talked about the movie and how much fun it was
filming it.An hour later Karen was back in the limo and on her way
back to the hotal.She sighed as she looked out the window thinking
about her life.These L.A. streets brought back a millon memories for
her.It seemed like such a long time ago when she had arrived here a
scared twenty two year old.She thought about her first roll on a sit
com.She never thought she would come this far that was for sure.Now
she was thirty she had done seven movies and stared in two broadway
productions.She closed her eyes as she thought of her ex
husbend,Edward.They were married for four years not bad for a
Hollywood marrige.She slmost laughed as she thought of him.Everyone
had thought it was a perfect match.She was young and famous he was a
famous directer.He had directed Karen in her first film.Scandel had
swirled around the couple from day one of there relationship.Not only
was he almost twenty years older then Karen but Edward was also
married.It seemed that Edward P.Davis had a pattren of marrying his
young leading ladies.Karen was the fourth Mrs.Davis.Edward had four
children including Preston.He had a son the same age has Karen as
well as two teenage daughters by the his first wife.It had been a
real blow when he left her for a twenty year old actress that had
stared in his last film.Karen looked out the window thinking about
her son."Fred could you stop at the toy store please."Karen said.Fred
nodded his head as he drove the limo.Karen knew that Preston had more
then enough toys,but she still spoiled him rotten giving him all the
things she never had as a child including love and understanding.She
had promised herself when he was born that she would lavish him with
the love she never felt growing up.


Paul lifted Evan out of his car seat.Evan smiled at Paul as Paul
adjusted him on his hip."Lets go shopping."Paul said as he walked
towords the South Coast Plaza Mall.Paul put Evan down once they came
to entrance of Fao Showatz toy store.Evan gave a small shout of
excitment as he ran ahead of his father looking at all the toys."Evan
slow down,buddy."Paul said with a laugh as he chased after his two
year old son.

Karen looked through the mountian of stuffed toys.She picked up a
large monkey.Preston loves monkies.She thought as she looked at the
funny little smile on the stuffed dolls face.Karen put the monkey
back in the pile and was about to turn around and head for the pre
school aisle of toys when she spoted a little boy with big brown eyes
and blond curly hair staring up at her.Karen smiled down at him.She
looked around to see if there was anyone with him."You lost little
guy?"Karen asked as she knelt down next to him.The little boy gave
her a huge grin.Karen laughed as he pointed to one of the teddy
bears."Bear!"he said in a happy little voice."Come on.I bet your
mommy is looking for you."Karen said as she stood up taking his
hand."Evan!"Karen heard a mans voice shout as she was about to lead
the little boy to the front of the store."Daddy!"the little boy said
with delight.Karen smiled as she shouted "He's over here!"she knew
that she had found the mans missing son.Karen was shocked when none
other then Paul Stanley rounded the corner with a look of panic on
his face."Evan...You scared me to death!"Paul said as he reached for
his little boy.Paul hugged Evan as he looked up to thank the woman
who found his son.He was as shocked as Karen when he saw
her."Karen!"he said as the panic dispeared from his face.He wondered
after he had said her name if she would know him without his make
up.Karen gave a small laugh "Paul is this your little boy!He is a
cutie!"she said as she reached up and ran her fingers through Evan's
hair.Paul laughed "Yeah this is my monkey boy!Thanks for catching him
for me."Paul said."I know how it is I have a two year old son.He has
gotten away from me a few times."Karen said."Yes,I read that you had
a son.His name is Preston,right."Paul said."I see you've read a few
things about me in the press."Karen said with a slight smile.Paul
looked away a little embarrassed he knew that the press had been a
little unkind to her in the last year with her divorce.Yet Karen
seemed to have come away from it better then ever.Karen could tell
that he was embarrassed "Hey I've read things about you too!"she said
with a laugh.Paul laughed "I tried to catch you after the Grammies
last night.I wanted to ask you if you would like to have dinner with
me and my wife sometime."Paul said."Well I'm going back to New York
in a few days."Karen said."Well how about tonight?"Paul asked Paul
really wanted to get to know her better.He had admired her work on
Broadway for a long time."I really need to spend some time with
Preston.I've been shooting this movie and it has taken me away so
much."Karen said wishing she could accept his invite.She had always
loved KISS and would love to get to know him better."How about if we
have dinner at my place tonight.You can bring Preston and he and Evan
can play together."Paul said.Karen smiled "Do you think it will be
alright with your wife?"Karen asked."Sure I know she would love to
meet you!"he said.Karen nodded "Alright then.I'll bring the wine."she
said.Paul put Evan down and wrote his address and phone number on a
peice of paper for Karen."Is six alright?"he asked as he handed the
paper to Karen."Perfect!"Karen said as she put the paper in her
purse."Great I'll see you then."Paul said as Evan took off
running."Bye"Paul called as he ran to chase his son.Karen smiled as
she turned to finish her shopping.

Karen looked in the mirror over the dresser in her hotal room.Preston
was happily playing on the bed behind her with the wooden cars she
had bought him eariler that day.She wondered if jeans and the
silver blouse she had chosen would be to informal."Oh well there
comfortable thats for sure."Karen said as she sliped her earrings in
her ears.Preston grined as he made one of the cars roll off the
bed.Karen turned around to look at her son."Are you ready to go bye
bye?"Karen asked as she walked over to the bed.Preston nodded his
head."bye bye!"he repeated.Karen smiled as she ran her fingers
through his jet black hair.He stared up at her with the same green
eyes as hers.His little face was the spiting image of hers.The only
thing he had gotten from his father was his hair.Karen stood up and
looked once more in the mirror.She picked up the diaper bag and her
purse.Karen walked into the sitting room of her suiet.Lois the nanny
was wtching tv."We'll be back later."Karen said as she headed out the
door.The middle aged woman looked up from the tv."Have fun!"she
called to them as they left.


Karen and Preston played in the back of the limo as it made its way
through the busy L.A. traffic.Karen knew that Preston was going to
love playing with Paul's little boy after all they were the same
age.The limo soon stoped in front of a large red brick house.Karen
sighed as she gathered her things and got out of the back of the limo
with Preston.Fred helped her by carrying the diaper bag up the steps
to the double doors of the house."Thanks Fred"Karen said as she took
the diaper bag from him."Your welcome Ms.Yates"he said as he turned
and went back to the car.Karen balenced Preston on her hip as she
rang the doorbell.The door open quickly as if Paul had been waiting
for her.Paul smiled when he saw her standing there."Karen come on
in."Paul said as he steped out of the way to let her into the large
black and white foyer.Karen smiled when she saw that he was wearing a
pair of faded jeans and a white tank top.His dark hair was pulled
back in a pony tail."You must be Preston!"Paul said as he looked at
Preston.Preston grined "Can you say hi to Paul."Karen said.Preston
gave a small wave with his hand "Hi"he said.Paul smiled "Come on out
back Pam and Evan are outside."Paul said.Karen and Preston followed
Paul through the house to the back yard.

Paul led Karen and Preston out a large patio door.The door opened out
to large redwood deck.Pam was sitting in a lounge chair watching Evan
throw a little yellow nerf ball into a plastic basketball hoop."Good
job Evan!"Pam said clapping as the little boy threw the ball.Pam
stood up when she saw Paul and Karen."Pam this is Karen Yates.Karen
this is my wife Pam."Paul said.Pam and Karen shook hands as Preston
began to struggle to be free of his mothers arms."Nice to meet
you."Karen said as she sat Preston down on his feet."Its good to meet
you too.Paul is big fan!."Pam said as she looked over at the two
boys who were already playing together.Paul was smiling as he looked
at Karen.Karen was a little surprised "Your a fan!"Karen said with a
small laugh."Oh yes!We have seen all your movies and Paul has seen
you twice when you did My Fair Lady on Broadway."Pam said as she sat
back down.Paul motioned for Karen to sit down as he took the lounge
chair next to Pam's."I love Broadway!"Paul said with a laugh.Karen
laughed "Well I'm a big fan of yours too!"Karen said.Paul
smiled "Gene said something about that last night at the
grammies."Paul said."Yeah in fact I collect KISS stuff.One room in my
apartment in New York is devoted to my collection."Karen said
proudly.Paul chuckled "Wow I'm impressed!"he said."Don't let it go to
your head dear."Pam said with a laugh as she put her hand on Paul's
thigh.Paul smiled at Pam."I know you moved back to New York.Do you
think you will be doing anymore theater?"Paul asked.Preston walked
over to the table with the nerf ball in his hands.Karen knew he
wanted her to join the game.Karen picked him up and sat him in her
lap."I don't know theater is hard to do when you have a two year
old."she said with a laugh.Preston waved the ball under Karen's
nose."Play!!!"Preston said.Paul and Pam both smiled at the little
boy."Looks like you little guy wants you to join in the game."Pam
said with a laugh.Karen nodded as she took the ball from Preston."I'm
going to fire up the grill"Paul said as he got up from his lounge
chair.Pam nodded as he walked down the steps of the redwood deck to
the grill.Karen threw the ball gently to Preston who laughed as he
cought it.Karen and Pam talked about there sons as they waited for
Paul to cook the humburgers and hotdogs.Pam was very nice and Karen
was enjoying getting to know her


Karen stood in her large pent house apartment she looked out the
window witch over looked Central Park.She had been back in New York
now for two months.She had gotten several calls offering different
rolls on Broadway sense she had gotten back from L.A.She had been
enjoying her time off so much that she had refused all of them for
now,but after two months Karen had to admit that she was starting to
get bored.The phone rang snapping Karen out of her thoughts.She raced
to pick up the phone not wanting the noise to wake Preston from his
nap.'Hello'Karen said a little out of breath.'Hi there Ms.Yates.'the
voice said in a mock english accent.Karen laughed as she recoganized
Paul's voice.They had become very close friends sense the cook out in
L.A two months ago.They spoke several times on the phone and promised
to get together whenever possible.'Whats up?'Karen asked.'Not much I
was just in town for a couple of days and was wondering if you would
like to have dinner with me?'Paul asked.'Thats sounds great!Are Pam
and Evan with you?'Karen asked.Karen heard Paul let out a long
sigh.'Not this trip.I'll fill you in when I see you about whats going
on.'Paul said.Karen could tell something was bothering him.'Well
would you like to come over tonight and have dinner here?'Karen
asked.'Are you sure you don't want me to take you to a nice
restaurant?'Paul asked with a laugh.He knew that she prefered staying
at home.Karen Yates may have been a famous actress but she was no jet
setter.'You know me Paul home is the place I like best.'Karen said
with a laugh.'What time should I be there?'Paul asked.'Is seven
alright?'Karen asked.'Sounds great,I'll see you then.'Paul said.Paul
and Karen said there goodbyes just as Preston woke up from his
nap.Karen walked into the large nursery.Preston was sitting up in his
small toddler bed."Hi sweetie."Karen said as she scooped him up into
her arms.Preston rubbed his eyes as he laid his head on her
shoulder.Karen sat down in the living room with Preston in her
arms.She held him leting him wake up.The phone rang as she sat
there.Karen rolled her eyes as she answered the phone sitting next to
her.'Hello'Karen said.Karen was a bit stunned to hear her ex husbends
voice.'Karen' Edward said brightly.'Hi Edward'Karen said trying not
to sound bitter.'Madison and I are in New York for a week.I was
wondering if I could see Preston for awhile.'Edward said in a
somewhat demanding voice.Karen looked down at her little boy.She
could feel herself tensing up as she held him.'Sure,when would you
like me to have him ready?'Karen asked with a twinge of anger in her
voice.Karen could see her ex husbend smiling a small smile of
victory.The custdey battle for there son had been very ugly.'Can you
have him ready by five say?'Edward asked.Karen pressed her lips
together trying to control her temper.'Yes I'll have him ready.'she
said.'Great I'll see you at five then.'Edward said.'Edward?'Karen
said before he hung up.'Yes?'Edward said.'You can have him for two
days and thats it.'Karen said.Edward was silent for a moment.'I'll
bring him back tomorrow evening.'he said.Karen sighed.'Good as long
as we understand each other.'She said.'Karen put Preston down to play
on the floor a few tears came to her eyes."Dama you Edward" she said
under her breath.


Karen sat down in the rocking chair in the nursery after Edward and
his new wife had picked Preston up.Tears flowed from her eyes as she
rocked back and fourth.She hated leting Edward have him even for a
little while.The awful lies he had told about her in court had been
devastating.The judge had awarded her soal cusdey of Preston after
four months of battleing it out in the courts.Edward was allowed very
limted visation.Not that it seemed to bother him after all the
battleing was done,Edward and Madison had went on a trip to Europe
for three months.Karen whiped her eyes and looked at her watch.Paul
would be there soon.She needed to put the roast in the oven.Karen
walked to her large kitchen and began to peel the potatos for the
roast.After the dinner was in the oven Karen went to her room and
pulled on a pair of black leather pants and a blue halter top.She
checked herself in the mirror just as the doorbell rang.Karen noticed
that her eyes were red from crying she hoped that Paul wouldent
notice as she walked out of her room to answer the door.


Karen rushed to the door of the apartment."Who is it?"she called
through the door."It the maytag repair man!"Paul called through the
closed door laughing.Karen put on her best smile and opened the
door."Hi Paul"Karen said as Paul steped inside her plush pent house
apartment.Karen noticed how good he looked in his faded blue jeans
and leather vest with nothing on underneath.Paul handed her a bottle
of red wine and kissed her gently on the cheek."Hey Karen!"Paul said
as he pulled away to look at her."Paul you look wonderful,come in an
sit down."Karen said as she led him down the three steps into her
sunken living room.Paul looked around the apartment noticing that
Prestone wasent there."Whare's the little guy?"Paul asked.Paul could
tell that Karen was forcing a smile as she said "Edward took him for
a few days."Paul nodded after the last month and half he knew first
hand what Karen was going through.Paul let out a soft sigh as he took
a seat on the sofa."I see."he said with syempathy in his voice."Want
some wine?"Karen asked as she walked to the bar in the corner of the
living room."Sure."Paul said.Karen poured two glasses of wine and
walked over and handed one to Paul.She sat down on the other side of
the sofa."Thanks"he said as he took a sip of the red wine.Paul could
smell the roast cooking as he sat there."Something smells good."he
said smiling at her."Yeah,I hope you like roast."Karen said with a
small laugh."That sounds good.Its been awhile sense I've had a home
cooked meal."Paul said.Karen narrowed her eyes.She could tell
something was bothering him."Is something wrong Paul?"Karen asked."I
shouldent bother you with my problems."Paul said as he looked out the
window.Karen reached for Paul's hand."Hey were friends.Come on you
can talk to me."she said.Paul smiled as he looked at her.He noticed
her eyes were red like she had been crying.Paul took a deep
breath."You know KISS is going to be doing a Reunion Tour?"Paul
asked.Karen nodded "Well you know I heard the rumers.And then you
told me last week when you called."Karen said."Yeah.Well it looks
like its going to be a long tour."Paul said.Karen nodded "Of course
the fans have been waiting a long time."Karen said."Listen I'm not
going to beat around the bush.You should know your my friend and if
anybody would understand it would be you.Pam and I have
separated."Paul said looking into Karen's eyes.Karen shook her
head "Oh Paul I'm sorry."she said."Well it had been a long time
coming.We just werent getting along."Paul said sadly.Karen nodded as
she remembered back to her own troubled marrige."I know what your
going through.If you need to talk you know I'm here for you.'Karen
said."I know and thats why I called you.I really do need to talk to
sombody who has been in my place before."Paul said.Karen nodded as
she sat there listening to Paul tell her about how much he wanted to
make his marrige work."The thing I hate most is that I've failed at
something."Paul said.Karen nodded "I know,but maybe you should look
at as just a tempory separation.I mean Pam hasent asked for a divorce
yet.Maybe she just needs some time."Karen said as she put her hand on
Paul's shoulder.Paul looked up at her."Maybe your right."he
said.Karen could see the sadness in his dark eyes and Paul could see
the sadness in her green eyes.

Paul and Karen sat at the dining room table enjoying the roast that
Karen had prepared."That was very good! I had no ideia you were such
a good cook."Paul said as the meal ended."Well I have a
confession,roast is the only thing I can cook.The rest is take out or
eat out like any good New Yorker."she said in a mock New York
accent.Paul chuckled."Well it was still good."he said smiling at
her."So what have you been up to?I bet the offers from Broadway are
poaring in!"Paul said as he lifted his wine glass to his lips.Karen
sighed "Well I've had a few offers,but the one I really want hasent
asked me yet."Karen said."So you are thinking about going back and
doing Broadway."Paul said in an exsited voice.Karen smiled she loved
talking to him about theater he truly loved it as much as she
did."Yeah I'm thinking about it.I just wonder if its fair to
Preston.He so young."Karen said.Paul nodded "Yeah Broadway's and
everynight thing."Paul said."Well anyway the part I really want is
Sally Bowles in Cabaret.If they call most likly I'll take the
part."she said with a shrug."Sally Bowles...no way!I picture you more
as Christine from the Phantom of the Opera."Paul said."Don't I wish.I
don't think i could do the role justice."Karen said with a laugh.Paul
reached for her hand "Don't sell yourself short little lady.Your a
dama good actress and singer."Paul said.Karen had never seen him look
at her with so much passion before."Thanks your very sweet."Karen
said as she reached up and touched his cheek.Paul took her hand away
from his cheek.Without even realizing it he kissed the palm of her
hand.Karen looked into his dark eyes and felt a shiver run down her
spine as leaned in and brushed his lips lightly aginst hers.They both
pulled back from the innocent kiss a bit stunned."I'm sorry..."Paul
said softly as he stared into Karen's eyes."No Paul it was my fault
too."Karen said as she tried to look away from his dark
eyes."Karen"Psul said as he leaned over once again and kissed
her.Karen could feel his tongue as it demanded entrence aginst
lips.Karen opened her mouth allowing his tongue to dance with
hers.Paul and Karen both were gasping when there kiss ended.There
were no words of apolgy as Paul and Karen looked into each other eyes
this time.Karen closed her eyes trying to fight her feeling as she
felt Paul's hands on her face.He traced her face with his fingers
running his thumb over her full lips.Karen could feel his breath on
her face as he kissed her once more.He was as helpless as she was at
fihting the feelings of passion that were swelling suddenly between
them.Paul got up from his seat and pulled Karen gently up by her
hands."Do you want me?"he asked in a low voice as he wrapped his arms
around her.It had been a year an half sense any man had touched
Karen.Karen's mind was raceing about how wrong this was as she heard
her own voice say "Yes.."Paul kissed her once more as he walked her
towards the long hall that led to her bedroom.

Paul's hands ran over her body as he laid her gently on top of her
king size bed.Paul pulled his hair free of the pony tail,leting his
dark hair spill over his shoulders.His dark eyes never strayed from
Karen's green eyes as he laid along side of her.His hands reached for
her halter top.Paul could feel her shiver as he tugged at the
fabric.His eyes looked into hers asking if she still wanted
this.Karen took his face in her hands and kissed his soft lips in a
answer.Paul's hands roamed over her breast as a moan escaped her lips
aginst there kiss.Paul rolled on top of her as he kissed her
deeply."I want you."he said as he pushed her halter top completly
off.Paul's lips met with her nipples making her cry his name."Say my
name,I love to hear you say my name."Paul said in between his teasing
of her breast and nipples."Paul....Paul"Karen said in a low
voice.Paul rested his head between her breast as he reched down to
free himself of his jeans.He wiggeled out of them as he came back up
to kiss her once more.Karen ran her hands over his beautiful chest as
she withered under his roaming hands.Karen pulled his leather vest
off as she kissed his chest.There crys of delight echoed through the
bedroom as they teased each other.Paul pulled Karen's leather pants
off.Paul sat back for a moment to admire her beautiful body before he
entered her gently with one slow thrust.Karen wrapped her arms around
Paul's waist as he thrust inside of her.Waves of plesure shot through
her body with each one of his strokes.Paul kissed her lips stiffeling
some of her crys of plesure.Paul's dark eyes were half closed as he
came deep inside of her with one last thrust.He lay down next to her
wrapping her into his arms.The two dident say another word as they
fell into a deep sleep.

Paul opened his eyes as the sunlight streamed through the window of
Karen's bedroom.He looked down at Karen sleeping wrapped in his
arms.She felt so good laying there aginst him.He knew that there
relationship had changed in one short evening.He slowly got up from
the bed and found his clothes.He wasent sure if she would want him
there are not.Paul knew that the last thing Karen or he needed in
there lives right now was this kind of thing hiting the press after
all he was married and geting ready to go out on what looked like one
of the biggist tours of the year.Karen had come out of a terrible
marrige and messey divorce.Sometimes fame was a double edge
sword.Paul looked at her as he pulled his vest on."Karen'he said
softly.Karen streached as she opened her beautiful green eyes to look
at him."Morning"she said shyly as she remembered what had happened
the night before."Want some breakfast?"Paul asked."Are you
cooking?"she asked with a small laugh.Paul nodded "Sure,....I think
we need to talk."he said as he turned to leave the bedroom.Karen
waited till the door closed before she grabbed her robe and sliped it
on.Karen sighed need to talk oh yeah we need to talk alright.Karen
thought as she steped out of her bedroom.


Karen walked into the kitchen as Paul was pouring a cup of coffee.He
handed her the hot cup of coffee as she came to stand next to him at
the counter.They both looked at each other not really knowing what to
say.Karen swollowed hard as she looked at Paul wondering if she
should say anything or let him speak first.Paul looked down at the
counter."Karen I don't know what to say.I mean I want to say this
shouldent of happened and that I'm sorry.but I'm not sorry."he
said.Karen sighed as she closed her eyes thinking about what could
happen to both there careers if the press got a hold of something
like this."Paul I think this was just a one time thing.We should do
the right thing and not see each other again."Karen said.It broke her
heart to say it but she knew it was the right thing.Paul turned to
look at her.Paul felt like he was losing a friend all because he
couldent control himself."Don't say that Karen!We can still be
friends."Paul said."Paul we slept together.Your married.Your marrige
is in trouble already.Do you really want Pam to pick up a paper and
read about this?"Karen said as she remembered herself reading about
her husbends affair a year and half ago in the paper.Paul stared at
her as he thought of how awful the press had been about the
divorce."No I don't want that,but we can still be friends."Paul said
in a whisper.Karen sighed "No Paul its over.I'm sorry and I'll miss
our friendship,but I won't be the other woman again.I know how it
feels to be on both sides of the fence and I won't ever do it
again."Karen said with tears in her eyes."Oh Karen,"Paul said as he
put his arm around her shoulder.Karen quickly pulled away."Please
Paul just go.We can't do this."she said softly.Paul watched as she
walked out of the kitchen and out of his life.

Paul walked into the large living room.Karen was already in her
bedroom waiting for him to leave.Paul looked at the fireplace
mantal.Her goldon globe award was displayed proudly.There were framed
movie posters decorating the walls.He would miss there talks.He could
remember spending hours on the phone with her,he could talk to her
about anything and now she never wanted to see him again.Paul wrote
his cell phone number down quickly on a scrap of paper.'Let me
know.'he wrote at the bottom of the paper.He placed the paper under
her goldon globe award and left the apartment wondering if some day
maybe things would be diffrent for them.



Paul steped out of the limo at the world premiere of Karen Yates
latest movie.The flash bulbls went off as he steped onto the red
carpet at the large L.A. theater.Paul hadent seen her sense they had
slept togther a month ago.She had made her feelings very clear but
Paul knew he had to see her again.In a matter of weeks KISS would be
going out on a very long tour and he just couldent stand the thought
of not making things right between him and Karen.Paul's eyes scaned
down the red carpet looking for her.His eyes came to rest on her
standing at the entrance.Her long curly hair pulled back from her
face showing her beautiful eyes.God those eyes,how beautiful they are
Paul thought to himself as she smiled for the camras.Her long red
dress was open in the back showing her bare back.A slit up the dress
revealed her leg as she stood there talking to a reporter from E!
TV.Paul quickly made his way to the entrance trying to dodge the
reporters.Karen saw him approuching.Paul gave her a slight wave as he
walked past her and into the theater.Karen smiled as he walked by
while inside she was screaming.The last thing she wanted was to see
him.He had called a few times and she had refused to take his phone
calls.Why is he doing this she wondered as she turned and walked into
the theater.


Karen scaned the theater looking for Paul as she walked to the seats
whare the other actors and directer of the movie were seated.She saw
him sitting a few rows behind her as she exschanged friendly hugs
with the rest of the cast of the movie.Paul smiled and nodded at
her.Karen quickly looked away.Karen was grateul when the lights faded
out and the movie started.She could still feel Paul's eyes on her as
she sat there watching herself on the big screen.Why is he doing this?
Karen kept asking herself as she sat there.The movie ended to load
claps and a few shouts."Another blockbuster!"the directer said
proudly as he stood up.Karen smiled at him as he shook hands with her
and the rest of the cast.Karen slowly turned to walk out of the
theater.She hoped Paul would not show up at the party that was to
follow the premiere.Karen let out a large sigh when she saw that he
was gone.

Karen walked out of the theater hopeing that she wouldent run into
Paul.yet she would of loved to have seen him in away she really did
miss him.She missed talking to him about Broadway shows and about
there two boys.Karen was releaved as she got into the back of the
limo.She wished she could miss the big party.All she really wanted to
do was go to bed.She had left Preston back in New York with the nanny
and she missed him very much.Karen looked at her watch as the limo
pulled up to the directers house whare the party was being held.Karen
saw all the other limo as she got out of the car.She was glad there
was no press around as she walked up the steps of the mansion.The
doors were wide open as she looked at the crowd of people standing
around holding there drinks and making polite conversation.Karen
walked inside and was greeted by the directer and his wife with a hug
and kiss on the cheek.Karen grabbed a glass of wine from one of the
trays a waiter was carrying through the room.Karen looked around at
all the famous people who were her friends and co workers.My God she
had come so far she shuttered to think about what could of became of
her life had she not made it as an actress.Karen had left home when
she was twenty with five hundred dollers and a dream.Thank God her
dream became a realaity.It had been rough but when she was twenty two
she got her lucky break and made good.Sense then she had been a
working actress whitch was all she had ever wanted to be.Karen drank
her wine as she made small talk with a few people as she walked
around the room.Music from the movies sound track that had just
premeired played softly through the large room.A few couples started
to dance in the large room.Karen turned when she felt a hand on her
shoulder."Dance?" Paul said as Karen turned to look at
him."Paul"Karen said in a low voice."Come on."he said as he grabbed
her hand and led her out to the dance floor.Paul held her in his arms
as they danced around the room with the other couples."How have you
been?"Paul asked as he held her at arms length as they danced."Paul
why are you doing this?"Karen said with some anger in her
voice."Because I miss you."Paul said softly as he looked into her
green eyes.They were the eyes he felt that if given a chance he could
get lost in forever."Paul I thought we had and agreement not to see
each other anymore."Karen said."No Karen you said that not me.I want
to see you all the time and talk to you on the phone like we used
too.I miss you."Paul said.Karen sighed "Paul your married.We can't
see each other anymore."Karen said."I'm seprated.That means my wife
and I are thinking about ending our marrige."Paul said."Well I don't
want to help it along."Karen said as tears stung her eyes."Lets get
out of here."Paul said as the song faded out.Karen knew it was best
to contiue this talk in private."Paul I'm staying at the Hilton in
suite 453,come by in the morning.We can talk then."Karen said as she
walked away from him.Paul smiled he was going to at least be able to
talk to her.It was a start he thought as he left the party.

Paul knocked at the door lightly.He held a dozen red roses behind his
back as the door slowly opened.Paul smiled at Karen as she stood
there with a slight smile on her beutiful face.Paul stood there for a
moment looking at her dressed in a pair of gray slacks and a white
blouse.Her brown hair was pulled back in a pony tail."Come in."Karen
said.Paul walked inside and pulled the roses out from behind his
back.Karen rolled her eyes as he handed them to her."What are these
for?"Karen said."Because I've missed you!"he said smiling at
her.Karen shook her head,dama he looks so good she thought to herself
as she stood there looking at him.His hair was tucked up under a red
bandanna,he wore a pair of faded blue jeans with few rips in them and
a white tank top with a leather jacket.Paul's dark eyes stared at her
as she stood there holding the roses.He wrapped his arms around her
and kissed her lightly on the lips.Karen quickly pulled away."Paul
please,lets not do this."Karen said.Paul nodded as he walked into the
room."Lets talk."he said as he sat down on the sofa.Karen nodded as
she laid the roses down on the table in front of the sofa."I've
missed you too."Karen said softly as she sat down on the sofa next to
him.Paul smiled at her."Then lets be together."he said looking into
her eyes.Karen couldent look at him she turned away."Paul your
married.I told you I don't want to get involved with a married man.My
first husbend was married when I met him.I just can't do that to you
or Pam.Maybe someday but not now."Karen said."I just don't want you
to shut me out we were so close before.Remember how we used to call
each other at least once a week.We would talk about our kids and the
theater.Why can't we do that anymore?."Paul said as he moved a little
closer to her."Because we slept together."Karen said as she looked at
him.Paul looked at her with a saddness in his eyes."No body has to
know."Paul said as he looked at her.Karen shook her head. "If we were
to see each other again some one would find out."Karen said in a
knowing voice.Paul nodded "All I'm asking for is a phone call once in
awhile.KISS is going on tour in a few weeks I won't be around for us
to see each other."Paul said as he got up from his seat.Karen nodded
as he walked towards the door.Karen followed him.Paul reached into
the pocket of his jacket."Here"he said handing her and envalope.Karen
was puzzeled as she looked at it."Open it."he said.Karen tore the
envalope open.It was a ticket to a concert that was being held that
night at Van Nuys facility."I'll send a limo for you.Its just a warm
up before we go out on tour.There will only be about thirty five
people there.Please say you'll come."Paul said.Karen looked down at
the ticket that looked more like a stage pass.She slowly
nodded,Karen's head was saying no,but she still felt herself saying
yes."I'll see you tonight then."Paul said as he leaned over and kiss
her cheek."The limo will be here at six.I'll see you then."Paul said
as he left the room.Karen closed the door behind him and touched her
cheek that was still warm from his kiss.She had been fighting her
feelings for him for so long.She had fallen in love with him and she
knew it now after seeing him again.

Karen gave herself a nod as she looked in the mirror.She had chosen a
simple black dress to wear to the little concert. the skirt just came
above her knee.She wondered if Pam would be attending the little
dress reherasal as she sliped her feet into her black pumps.Karen
picked up her purse and made her way to the door at five
fortyfive.Her heart was pounding as she made her way down to the
lobby.What are you doing?she asked herself over and over again.The
warning bells were ringing in her head yet she was powerless to stop
herself from seeing him again no matter how wrong it was.The limo was
already waiting at the curb.Karen slid into the limos backseat as the
driver held the door for her.Karen began to relax as the limo drove
away from the hotal.


Paul sat backstage wearing his full Star Child make up and
coustume.Gene,Ace and Peter were all chatting non stop as they sat
there waiting to take the stage.Paul was thinking about Karen as he
sat there half listening to what was going on around him.He hoped she
would show up.He needed to see her to make sure she understood that
he really cared for her."You alright Curly?"Ace said noticing how
quiet Paul was."Yeah I'm fine."Paul said shrugging his shoulders."You
got a little stage fright?"Gene said in a teasing voice.Paul
laughed "Me! hell no!"Paul said."Good we don't want our front man
freezing up in front of our friends and family!"Peter said with a
laugh.Paul smiled "Don't worry I know what I'm doing."Paul said as he
got up to peek outside at whare there friends and families were
geting ready for there little show.Paul shook his head as he scaned
the fimler faces looking for Karen.She must have changed her mind he
thought as he was about to turn and go back to the dressing room.Just
then he saw her standing a little away from the others looking
around.Paul's heart skiped a beat as he looked at her standing there.

Karen looked up to see Paul waving from the corner of the huge
stage.Karen waved back as she looked at the group of people mingling
around the front of the stage.She wanted to make sure that Pam wasent
there,Karen didnet think she could face her after what had happened
with Paul.Karen heard her name as she turned to see Doc standing
behind her."Doc,how have you been?"Karen asked she knew Doc from when
she was married to her husbend."Long time no see.Paul told me he had
asked you to come."Doc said as he kissed her cheek lightly."Yes,how
could pass up the honer of being one of the first to see KISS in full
make up in nearly seventeen years."Karen said smiling."Yeah its going
to be a great tour."he said with his eyes shining."Come on back and
say hi to Paul before they hit the stage."Doc said."Are you
sure?"Karen asked."Sure there just hanging around back there
talking.I know he wanted me to let him know if you showed up."Doc
said as he took her hand to lead her back stage.


Karen walked into the dressing room following Doc.Paul stood up
towering over her in his boots."Karen!"he said as he leaned down to
kiss her cheek lightly.Karen smiled."Ready for a show!"Gene asked as
he sat in one of the chairs."You bet we've been waiting a long time
for this!"Karen said smiling over at him."Come on."Paul said taking
her hand and leading her out into the small hallway."I'm so glad you
came."Paul said as he held her hand.Karen nodded "I just can't seem
to stay away."she said softly.Paul nodded "Its alright,I can't seem
to stay away from you either"Paul said.Karen looked into his dark
eyes.Even with his face hidden by his star child make up she still
felt as if his eyes could see right into the depths of her soal."Can
I take you to dinner after the show?"he asked.Karen nodded "We can
eat in my hotal room."she said fearing being seen by the press if
they were out in public together.Paul nodded "As long as we can
talk.I've missed you very much."he said."Its time Paul."Doc called
from the dressing room.Paul nodded "I've got to go."Paul said as he
kissed her cheek once before he turned to leave.Karen nodded as she
watched him walk away.


Karen waited back stage while Paul dressed in his street clothes.She
was a little nervous about walking outside with him to the limo.She
watched as a few of the other people that were at the little dress
rehersal sat around talking.Karen dident know any of them accept for
Doc who was in the dressing room with the band.Paul came out into the
hallway a half hour later wearing a pair of black lather pants and
gray silk shirt.His dark hair was pulled back in a pony tail.Karen
could see that it was a little damp like he had just showered.Paul
smiled at her."Ready?"he asked as he put his arm out.Karen looked
around as she grabbed his arm."Night Paul!"someone called.Paul turned
and waved as they made there way outside.Paul opened the door of the
limo and Karen slid inside."Well did you enjoy the little show?"Paul
asked as he settled himself in next to her.Karen smiled "It was great!
I felt like a kid again!"she said.Paul laughed"So did I!"he
said.Karen smiled "Hows Evan?"she asked."He's doing great!Hows
Preston?"Paul asked.Paul was glad that she was talking to him agian
like they used to."Doing fine!Into everything thoe."she said rolling
her eyes."Oh the wonders of a two year olds!"Paul said in a knowing
voice.Paul looked at her smiling at him.He reached up and gently
touched her cheek.Karen's smile faded as she looked into his
eyes."You mean so much to me Karen."Paul said softly."Paul..."Karen
said as he put his finger to lips."Don't say anything.I know I'm
married but I just can't forget the night we shared together.Let me
be with you for awhile before I go out on this tour."he said as his
finger traced her full lips.Karen could feel hot tears welling up in
her eyes.She wanted so badly to tell him no,but her heart was telling
her to let him take her in his arms and love her one last time.Paul
leaned in close to her as he brought his finger away from her
lips.Karen could feel his warm breath as his lips met hers in a deep
kiss.A jolt of passion that neither one could deny went through there
bodies.




The limo came to a stop in front of the hotal with a slight jolt
snaping Karen and Paul back to reality.Paul took Karen's hand as they
got out of the limo.They quickly made there way up to Karen's
room.Karen put her key in the door and steped inside followed by
Paul.She switched on the light and looked at him.He wrapped his arms
around her."I want to make love to you so badly."he whisperd in her
ear.Karen closed her eyes as she surrendered to his kiss.She was
unable to control herself as her hands roamed down his back to rest
on his firm ass."I want you too."Karen sighed as he pulled away from
there kiss.He looked into her green eyes hopeing that what they had
together would last and never end.Paul took her hand and led her to
the bedroom.He held her in his arms as he kissed every inch of her
face.Karen never wanted it to end as he traced her face with his soft
lips.She felt her dress slip from her body as he laid her back on the
bed.His kisses trailed down her neck to her stomch.Karen closed her
eyes and arched her back as his hands and lips teased her senstive
flesh.A little voice inside her head was screaming don't do this as
her body withered under his touch.Paul moved down her body to rest
between her legs.His tongue found her sweet wettnes as he teased her
softly with his tongue.He heard her moan softly as he darted his
tongue in and out of her sweet wettness.Paul felt her tense up as she
cried out his name with her first orgasm.She was breathing heavy as
he came up to kiss her lips softly."Paul....."she said as he sat up
to free himself of his clothes.He streached out next to her with his
nude body touching her lightly."Come here"he said softly as he pulled
her up to straddel him.Karen positioned herself over his erect
manhood.She slowly envloped him in her wetness as they both moaned
with plesure.Karen rode him slowly as his dark eyes gazed at her.Paul
hands rested on her hips as she rose up and down on his hard
shaft.Paul closed his eyes as she increased the pace of there love
making."Please don't stop."he said softly as he felt himself about
exspload deep inside of her.Paul sat up and kissed and sucked her
breast as she bucked aginst him.He called out her name as he filled
her with his hot cum.Karen withered around him as she bit softly into
his shoulder to stifle her crys of pleasure.Paul gathered her aginst
him as he lay back in the bed.They laid in each others arms sweating
and panting to catch there breath.Karen rested her head on his chest
listening to his beating heart.Why can't I stop myself?Karen asked
herself as she laid there cradeled in his arms.Paul smiled down at
her as he stroked her soft dark hair.He sighed as his eyes
closed.Karen lay there as he slept holding her close.She wanted to
hate herself for being so weak yet being with him felt so right she
thought as she drifted off to sleep.


Karen's eyes opened wide.She could tell it was still dark outside as
she lay in Paul's arms.She lay there snuggeled close to him thinking
about when she had first started dating her ex husbend.He had been
seprated from his wife too.They had tried so hard to keep there
relationship a secreat.The press found out thoe.She was made out to
be such a whore in the press she was sometimes amazed that her career
survied.When her divorce hit the papers a year ago she had to relive
alot of it as the press retold the story of her affair with Edward
while he was still married.Karen sighed as she felt Paul tighten his
grip on her body."Are you awake?"he said softly in the stillness of
the dark room.Karen smiled as she sat up to look at him in the
darkness."Yeah I'm awake."she said softly.Paul put his arms around
her again.Karen laid back in his arms.He kissed the top of her
head."What are you thinking about?"he asked.Karen ran her figers
through the soft dark hair on his chest."My ex husbend."she said."Hey
I may take that as an insult!"Paul said with a slight chuckle.Karen
smiled "Not like that!"she said laughing.Paul held her tighter he
knew what she was thinking about he had read the papers."You feel
like your repeating history.Don't you?"he asked.Karen nodded as she
moved up to look at him."Paul you know they will find out.Don't
you?"Karen asked as her face lost all its joy.Paul took her face in
his hands as he leaned to kiss her."Don't worry about it right now.We
can see what happens after I come back off this tour.Maybe things
will be diffrent.I just don't want you to shut me out."he said softly
as he stared into her eyes."Paul I can't do this again! I have a
career to think about."she said as tears burned her eyes."Karen no
one knows yet.We are safe for now."he said in a resuring voice.Paul
wrapped her into his arms once more.He knew that it would be sometime
before they would be together again.Karen laid in his arms feeling
guilty as she waited for the sun to rise.

Karen awoke as the sun was straming through the window of her
room.She looked around noticing that Paul was gone.This feels
familuer she thought as she pulled her robe on."The life of the other
woman,you always wake up alone."she said to herself softly.Karen
walked into the sitting room surprised to see Paul sitting on the
sofa reading the morning paper wearing his leather pants from the
night before.His hair was wet fron whare he had taken as
shower."Morning"Paul said as he got up from the couch to pour her a
cup of coffee."You ordered room service."Karen said."Yeah,I hope
thats alright."Paul said."Thats fine.I just thought you had
left."Karen said.Paul smiled "Now would I leave without saying
goodbye?"he said.Karen looked into his dark eyes before she could
stop herself she said"I'm going to miss you."Paul nodded as he
reached for her."I'm going to miss you too.I promise to call you once
a week."Paul said as he kissed her forehead.Karen wrapped her arms
around his waist."Come sit down over here and tell me about whats
been going on in your life."Paul said.Karen sat down on the couch
with her coffee cup.Paul sat down next to her."Well I got the part I
wanted.I'll be playing Sally Bowles in Cabaret !The role is going to
keep me busy for the next four months!"she said with exsitment."Thats
great!"Paul said as he leaned over and kissed her lightly."When do
you take over the roll?"Paul asked as he took a sip of his
coffee."July 1st!I've been in reherasls sense May."she said."Great
KISS is playing New York in July.I'll have to come see the show."he
said.Karen smiled "I would love to see you."she said softly.Paul
smiled "I can't wait.Now I'll have something to look foreward too
while I'am on this tour."Paul said.Karen nodded "Well I hope I can
pull the part off.I'm a little nervous its been a few years sense
I've done Broadway."she said.Paul nodded and gave her a wink."You!are
going to do great!"he said as he leaned over and kissed her
cheek."Karen I really have to get going."Paul said as he got up and
to put his shirt on."Can we have dinner tonight thoe?"he asked as she
watched him button his shirt."I'm leaving for New York this
afternoon."she said a little disapointed.Paul sighed "Thats alright.I
guess I'll see you in July on Broadway.I'll call you in a day or
two."he said as he walked to the door.Karen walked over to the
door."Bye Paul."she said as a few tears filled her eyes."Don't cry
baby.I promise we will see each other whenever we can."Paul said as
he wrapped her into his arms.Karen nodded as he kissed deeply on the
lips."I'll miss you."he whispered as he pulled away.Karen closed the
door softly after he left.She sat down on the couch and cried wishing
that he could have stayed with her.


Karen ran to her dressing room.She looked at her watch as she said
hi to a few of the stage hands.She had been doing the show now for
two weeks.She had gotten rave reveiws in every paper.She was proud of
herself for not losing her edge!After all she had been away from
Broadway for almost four years.Karen was stunned when she entered her
dressing room to find it filled with vases of red and pink
roses.Karen smelled the sweet scent as she looked for some sort of
card.Karen stood there with the door open to her dressing room
wondering if someone in the theater would know who had delivered all
these beautiful roses.Karen turned around when she heard Paul's
voice."Knock Knock" he said with a chuckle.Karen smiled as he came
into the room.He closed the door behind him as he walked inside.Karen
walked into his open arms with a few tears.She had been so busy that
she hadent realized till that moment how much she had missed him.Paul
and she had talked almost every week sense the tour had started."Do
you like the roses?"he asked as he whiped her tears away."I love
them.Thank you."she said as she rested her cheek on his chest.She
couldent beleive he was there with her."I can't beleive you came."she
said."Hey you knew we were coming to town."he said laughing."Yes but
still...."she said Paul cut her off as his lips met her with a deep
kiss.Karen closed her eyes and melted into his body.He felt so
good.Paul pulled away from there kiss and looked into her big green
eyes."How have you been?"he asked as he held her in his arms."I'm
alright.I'm really happy to be on the stage again."she said smiling
up at him."I told you!You would do great!"Paul said with a
laugh.Karen shook her head "I know."she said as they heard a knock at
the door.Karen pulled away from Paul's embrace quickly."Come in"Karen
called.The make up artist walked into the small dressing room.He
smiled at Karen as Karen quickly took her seat in the make up
chair."I'll go grab my seat.I can't wait to see the show."Paul said
as he turned to leave.Karen gave Paul a wave as he turned to leave."I
take it thats the man who sent these lovly roses."he said as he began
to apply Karen's make up.Karen shook her head no."It was someone
else.He's just a good friend."Karen lied."Isent that man Paul Stanly
form the band KISS?"the make up artist asked."Yes he and I are just
good friends."Karen said.The man nodded as he finished applying
Karen's make up.

Karen took her last bowe with the rest of the cast to a standing
ovation.Karen smiled as she scaned the dark theater looking for
Paul.Her heart was pounding as the curtin fell to the floor."Good
show people!"the directer said as the actors all ran to there
dressing rooms.Karen walked to dressing room and began to remove her
stage make up with cold cream.The roses still filled the room making
her think of Paul.She knew he would be waiting for her as she changed
into her street clothes.Karen hung her coustume up as the directer
past by her door."Wow!sombody likes you!"he said peeking his head in
the doorway.Karen smiled "Yeah,they sure do."she said hopeing he
wouldent press her for an answer to who sent them."I can feel a Tony
award coming in your near future my dear!"he said with a broad
smile."We'll see!"she said with a laugh.The directer said that almost
everynight to her.She always just took as his way of saying your
doing a good job.Karen quickly gathered her things and made her way
to the backstage door to leave for the night.She knew that Paul would
be waiting for her as she signed as few autograhs for some people
waiting at the door.Karen slid into her limo just as her cell phone
rang.She clicked the phone on to hear Paul's voice.

'Hi babe'Paul said in a soft voice.'Hi'Karen said into the phone as
the limo pulled away from the stage door.'That was a great show!'Paul
said.Karen smiled as she looked out the window.'Thanks.I was hopeing
you enjoyed it."Karen said.'Can I see you tonight?'Paul asked.Karen
looked at her watch.'Whare are you staying?'Karen asked.'I'm staying
at the Plaza,but I think it would be best if we met at your
apartment.'Paul said knowing there was alot of press hanging out in
the lobby of his hotal.'That would be great.'Karen said as the limo
jolted to a stop at her apartment building.'I'll see you in about
twenty minutes then.'Paul said.Karen hung up the phone and put it
back into her purse.She said goodnight to her driver and made her way
inside the building.

Karen opened the door to her apartment.Her nanny Lois was half asleep
in front of the tv.Lois sat up in the chair when she saw Karen."How
did the show go?"she asked."It went great!"Karen said as she sat her
purse on the table in the entry way by the door."How is
Preston?"Karen asked her work schedule was so tight now it always
made her feel a little guilty."He's sleeping like and angel."Lois
said as she got up from her chair."I'll see you tomorrow
afternoon."Lois said as she made her way to the door."Thanks
Lois."Karen said as she sorted through some mail that was stacked on
the table.Karen sighed as she kicked off her shoes.She walked down
the three steps to her living room.There were a few of Preston's toys
laying next to the sofa.Karen picked the up and place them in a large
basket that was sitting in the corner of the room.She turned and
walked down the hall to check on her little boy.Karen turned on the
hall light and opened the nursery door softly.Preston was curled up
on his side clutching his stuffed rabbit that he never went anywhare
without.Karen smiled down at him as she ran her fingers through his
dark hair.She leaned over and kissed him lightly."Sleep well baby
boy."she said in a whisper.Karen closed the door just as she heard
the doorbell ring.Karen hurried down the hall to answer the door.

Karen opened the door to see Paul standing there in a leather jacket
and jeans.His hair was pulled back in a pony tail.He walked inside
and wrapped his arms around her.Karen looked up at him.No matter how
much she warned herself aginst seeing him .She just couldent fight
her feelings for him.Paul smiled down at her as they walked into the
living room."Would you like some wine?"Karen asked as he took a seat
on the sofa."Wine would be good."Paul said as he pulled his jacket
off and laid it on the sofa.Karen went to the bar and poured to
glasses of white wine.She carried them over and handed one to Paul
before she took a seat next to him.Paul picked up a photo of Preston
sitting on the coffee table."Hows he doing?"Paul asked.Karen smiled
at the photo as he sat it down."Great!He is almost potty trained
now."she said with a laugh."Really!Evan's almost got it down
too!"Paul said with a smile.Karen's smile faded as she looked into
his dark eyes and asked the quistion that she wasent sure she wanted
to hear the answer too."Are you and Pam talking?"she said.Paul looked
away for a moment as if he were deep in thought."Yes,she has flowen
out to a few of the shows.We are trying to work it out."Paul said he
wanted to be honest with her.Karen nodded."I really hope you and she
can work things out."she said.Paul turned to her looking into her
eyes."Karen I still care for you.You know that don't you?"Paul asked
as he searched her eyes for some kind of answer."Why are you here
with me then?"Karen asked with the hurt showing in her eyes."Karen I
just can't help myself.You are so easy for me to talk to.I just love
being around you."Paul said he had been trying to make sense of his
feeling for her for the last two months.Karen looked away as she took
a deep breath."Paul I can't do this anymore its wrong."she said
softly.Paul put his arm around her.She dident pull away even thoe her
mind was screaming at her to make him go.She found herself wrapped in
his arms.He placed small feather kisses on her face."Don't make me
go."he whispered in her ear as he held her.Karen answered him by
kissing his sweet lips.





Karen pulled back from there kiss."Please Paul this is driving me
crazy."she said in a whisper."Let me stay with you tonight."he said
as he kissed her again his tongue demaned entrece into her hungry
mouth.Karen parted her lips as his tougue danced with hers.Paul ran
his hands down her back as he pulled her to sit on his lap."I need to
be with you.Karen I'm so lonley.Just let me have you for a little
while."Paul begged as his hands began to undo the buttons on her
blouse.Karen looked into his dark eyes as her hands roamed over his
chest."Yes Paul I want you too."Karen said softly as she began to
kiss his chest teasing his nipples with her tongue.Paul let out a
soft groun as he stood up warpping Karen's legs around his waist.Paul
carried Karen to her bedroom down the hall as she continued to kiss
and tease his neck with her mouth.He laid her back on her king size
bed.He srood up and striped off his clothes as Karen wiggeled free of
her skirt and blouse.Paul laid over as he helped her remove her bra
and panties.He looked down at her with a slight smile."You are so
beautiful" he said as he covered her mouth with his own.He kissed her
breast teasing her erect nipples with his teeth.Karen cried out his
name.Paul looked up at her with her brown hair spread over the pillow
like angels wings.She reminded of the song Angel of Music from the
Phantom of the Opera laying there with her eyes closed.Paul kissed
her lips parting them with his tongue.He wanted so much to tell her
that they could be together without any fear.He slowly entered her as
her hips arched up to take all of him deep inside of her.Paul sighed
softly as he began to move inside of her.He closed his eyes leting
himself enjoy the feeling of her wettness as she cried his name
softly in the dark bedroom.She felt him fill her as he moaned
softly.He gathered her to him and fell asleep holding his angel that
saved him from his lonlyness.

Karen placed the plastic plate in front of Preston with his
scrambeled eggs and toast on it.Paul laughed as the little boy waved
his small fork in the air.Karen avoided any eye comtact with Paul as
she sat his plate in front of him.She knew he would see that she had
been crying.Karen sat down next to Paul and stared down at her
plate.Paul took a bite of his eggs."This looks really good,and I
thought you said all you could cook was roast!"Paul said in a teasing
voice.Karen tried to laugh as she picked at her food.Preston smiled
as he scooped up the eggs and put them in his mouth.Paul caught sight
of Karen's green eyes as she looked over at Preston.He could see that
she had been crying.Paul reached for her hand."Karen"he said as she
looked up at him with a few fresh tears."Paul I can't do this,I'm so
sorry.You really need to go."she said trying to control her
voice."Karen plese don't shut me out."he said in a whisper."Paul your
married.I'm not going to do this to myself again.I have a son to
think about.We can't make this work and you know it as well as I
do.Now please get your things and don't call me again."Karen said as
she sat there staring straight ahead.She knew that if she looked into
his eyes that she would give into her heart.Karen heard him push back
his chair as she looked over at Preston who was smiling as he ate his
toast."I understand."she heard Paul say as she heard his footsteps as
they left the kitchen.


Paul picked up his jacket that was still laying on the sofa.He looked
around the apartment.He took a deep breath as he felt a few tears
come to his eyes.He could hear Preston's little voice coming from the
kitchen.His heart was breaking he knew he had lost her as he walked
to the door and let himself out.He would respect her wishes he knew
in his mind that she was right but his heart was telling him another
story.



The end of book one!