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On a dirt road one November night, fog steamed up on the windows of Kenneth Kegan's camper. He and his mistress/girlfriend, Sandra Phoenix finished making love.

"You were wonderful Kenneth," said Sandra, as she put on a t-shirt. Sandra laid back down next to Kenneth's big muscular body. He took her in his arms. She ran a hand through his short brown wavy hair.

The Kegan family moved from Chicago, Illnois to Kershaw, a Long Island New York suburb two years ago. Kenneth, a cellphone salesman for Zerone CellSerivce, was offered a transfer to one of their Long Island locations. He accepted because the pay was good. However, his wife Dorothy, and their twin nine-year-old daughters, Linda and Kathleen were not happy. Neither of them wanted to leave behind friends and family. Once Kenneth and his family got settled into their new Long Island home, he started his new job.

The day Kenneth started working at Zerone CellService, his life forever changed. Another co-worker introduced him to Sandra Phoenix, a secretary in her late twenties. She was a slim, tall, attractive woman with red curly shoulder length hair and green eyes. Kenneth, found himself attracted to Sandra. However, he vowed on his wedding day to never cheat on Dorothy.

Throughout the next month, Kenneth, and Sandra slowly became friends. They even innocently flirted with each other. From their boss Mr. Hayesword, they were informed that they would have to take a week long business trip together to Florida.

While Kenneth was unpacking his clothes into a dresser draw in his hotel room, he overheard Sandra, fighting with someone on her cellphone. Their hotel rooms were directly across from each other. Disturbed by all of this, Kenneth went over there to make sure she was okay. Through her tears, Sandra lied and told Kenneth she was fine.

Over dinner that night, Sandra, confessed to Kenneth about her marital problems to her husband of six years, Rick. He had to be in control of everything Sandra did, from who she socialized with to the way she dressed. Kenneth, reassured Sandra by saying how beautiful just the way she was. He went onto tell her about his ten-year marriage to Dorothy and this twin daughters. After dinner, Sandra, invited Kenneth upto her hotel room where they had sex. They had been secret lovers ever since.

"I have a confession to make," said Sandra.

"What is it Sandra?" whispered Kenneth.

She took a deep breath. "This afternoon, I told Rick about us."

At the sound of her voice, Kenneth immediately removed his arms from Sandra. "You what?" he yelled.

"Rick knows about us," she repeated.

"Why did you tell him?"

Uncomfortable, Sandra sat up in the bed. "Because, I don't want to sneak around anymore. I am tired of this."

Kenneth got out of the bed, holding his hands to his head. "I can't believe you would do something so stupid. What else did you say?"

"Well, I asked Rick for a divorce and he threw me out. Didn't you tell Dorothy about us like you promised?"

"No," said Kenneth getting dressed. " I don't ever plan to."

"But, you promised me."

"Well, promises are made to be broken." He put on his socks. "Did it ever occur to you I have a wife and twin daughters to think about?"

Just then Sandra angrily threw on the rest of her clothes. "That's it I am out of here for good." She slammed the door on her way out.

Kenneth, watched as Sandra walked a safe distance from the camper. He started the engine and pulled out, blowing dirt in Sandra's face.

 

One hot summer night in Hollywood, California The Rocketship Rockclub, a popular hang out joint for celebrities was located on The Sunset Strip across the street from The Whiskey A Go-Go and a few other clubs. Eighties heavy metal band, Skullface, was there to play to a jammed packed crowd.

Twenty-two-year-old Alex Tarian and his girlfriend, Karma Stockhorn stood backstage near the curtain looking out at the crowd.

"Wow, look at that crowd over there," said Alex, in amazement.

"Oh, look," Karma pointed out. "There's your parents and Uncle Brendan."

A knot twisted in Alex's stomach as he looked over in the direction of his relatives, who stood in the front row. "Oh, God, I am going to puke."

Karma, ran a finger through Alex's long black curly hair as he breathed heavily. "You're going to be just fine."

He looked into her bright blue eyes. "Do you really think so Karma?"

Both Alex and Karma met when they were both high school seniors in Levittown, Long Island New York. It was the first day of school, when Alex noticed a pretty petite short hair blonde girl sitting in front of him in Biology class. To get her attention, Alex, asked her if he could borrow a notebook. She turned around to him when their eyes locked. They have been together ever since.

"Listen Alex," said Karma, who patted her thin tall boyfriend on the back. "You were meant to have this job. You are the new guitar player for your favorite eighties band, Skullface."

"Are you saying this is my destiny?" he asked. She just nodded.

Alex, excused himself to use the bathroom. He stood in front of the mirror spraying hairspray in his hair. The leopard ripped shirt and tight black leather pants he wore, matched perfectly with his brown eyes. With one good look of himself in the mirror, his nervousness changed to confidence. He posed in the mirror with the metal horns sign in his left hand. "You rock, dude!"

Born in the late 80's to Donna and Ray Tarian, Alex, was an only child. His parents were rarely around. They didn't have much money and had to work various jobs just to keep a roof over their heads. Whenever his parents were home, heavy metal music from bands like Twisted Sister and the Scorpions played on the stereo.

At age eleven on a family camping trip one summer, everyone sat around the campfire telling ghost stories. Donna decided she heard enough. She had asked her brother, Brendan, to play his accoustic guitar. From the first note Brendan strummed, Alex, became mesmerized. He loved the way the guitar sounded. Alex, asked his parents to buy him one. Sadly, they had to say 'No.' They couldn't afford to buy him a guitar.

Christmas morning was always joyous in the Tarian household. Everyone sat around the tree opening gifts. Ray, handed his son a huge one.

"Open it son," he said.

Excitedly, Alex ripped open the gift. Before his very eyes, a shiny brand spanking new brown accoustic guitar stood right in front of him. He thanked his parents and Uncle Brendan. Alex, started strumming it.

Once a week after school, Brendan, taught Alex free guitar lessons. At first, it was difficult. As Alex practiced each day, he got better and better.

That winter, Alex, was home sick with the flu. Bored with nothing to do, he surfed the channels on television. His remote control stopped on VJTV (Video Jockey Television). Metalhead Showcase was on. The video disc jockey announced the premiere of Skullface's new video 'Rock With A Chainsaw.' The video showed all five band members using chainsaws as instruments. The next time Alex felt better, he bought their debut album with all the money he saved up from shoveling snow on neighbors driveways. Skullface, became his favorite band.

All through high school and into his adult life, Alex, played in a variety of different bands, including a Skullface tribute band, Skullcrusher. After a few years, he got kicked out for musical differences. A phone call came that would forever change the course of Alex's life. Skullface drummer Noah Vito was on the other end. Noah and the other band members checked out Skullcrushers website looking for a new guitarist to replace original guitarist Myles Walda. They offered Alex a chance to audition, which he gladly accepted.

The next week Alex and Karma, flew to Los Angeles, California. They arrived at In The Mix Studios. A knot twisted in Alex's stomach. Karma came to support him. A lobby full of guitarist awaited their audition turns. When Alex came up, Karma told him to break a leg.

Slowly walking in the recording studio with an electric guitar in his hands, Alex, saw all four original Skullface members: singer Kendall Kleef, bassist Walter Wolfrick, guitarist Ranon 'Bozo' Gifuhard, and drummer Noah Vito. Once he started playing, Alex, knew he was on fire. He won the audition.

To celebrate his victory, the band took Alex and Karma to The Rocketship Rockclub. It was there that Alex got his first taste of celebrity. Drugs were being passed around like candy. Groupies and pornstars hung all over the band like gum stuck to a shoe. At the party, Alex learned from Ranon they must start rehearsals immediately. In three months, they had a big tour with another of Alex's favorite eighties bands: Motley Crue. Touring with the bad boys of rock n' roll was a dream come true for Alex.

Things started quickly for both Alex and Karma. They got an apartment. While attending college, Karma, got a job working in a store. They sent back home to Long Island for their belongings and Karma's Dachshund, Gretchen. Not much of an animal lover himself, Alex grew attached to Gretchen. She brought such joy to his and Karma's life. A home wasn't a home without a dog.

Rehearsals with Skullface went smoothly for Alex. He was excited to hear they had a few warm up gigs lined up at different rockclubs, including the world famous Rocketship Rockclub. This was Alex's first public gig with the band. Now, the show was finally here at last.

Alex, rejoined Karma near the backstage curtain. Someone tapped him on the shoulder.

"Three minutes until showtime," said Walter.

Karma sighed. "You better go."

They smiled at each other. Alex lightly touched the cheek of his good luck charm. "You were about to say 'break a leg.'" She nodded in agreement.

The band gathered around in a circle to say a quick prayer. The announcer announced Skullface as they hit the stage. Standing right in front of Alex was his parents and Uncle Brendan. They were head banging.

A few songs into their set, Alex, ran around the stage. He tripped and fell landing face first onto the floor. Blood poured from his forehead. Suddenly the crowd and the band fell silent. Ranon, came over to make sure Alex was okay. A minute later, Alex, got up and walked over to the microphone. He played a guitar riff and the crowd went wild.

 

 

 

 

 

Seventeen-year-old high school senoir, Chad, and his co-worker, Fred, cleaned out a theatre from people who just left the Movie View Multiplex in the town of Seahawk, a Long Island New York suburb.

A disgusted looked crossed Chad's face as he bent down to clean up gum stuck underneath a seat. "Yuck!"

Fred looked over in his direction. "What happened Chad?"

"Fred, there was gum stuck under the seat."

"This is part of our job and you have to get use to it."

This was Chad's first day of work. He wanted to make a good first impression. For starters, he showed up for work half an hour earlier than his 3:30P.M. schedule. Before actually starting work, Chad used the men's room. In the mirror, he saw his brown short hair was neatly combed to the right. Not a single pimple was on his face. His gray janitorial uniform fit perfectly against his tall heavyset body. Never once in his life did Chad like cleaning. He desperately needed this job to save up for college next fall.

Once the gum was cleaned off, Chad, moved onto the next row of seats sweeping up popcorn. On the floor was a black wallet. Chad picked it up. Inside were credit cards, $100.00 bills, and a driver's license with a picture of a woman named Angela Wilkinson. To Chad, she was a pretty blonde hair woman in her early forties. Not one flaw stood out on her face. He took out her license. Her cellphone number was written on a piece of paper that fell out.

"Fred, do you know where Joanna is?"

"She should be in her office."

With the paper and wallet in his hands, Chad, took off for his boss Joanna's office. The Movie View Multiplex had twenty-five screening rooms. A few times Chad had gotten lost trying to find Joanna's office. By the time he reached her office, Chad was tired. He softy knocked on the door.

"Come on in," said Joanna, from behind the door.

When Chad met Joanna on the job interview, the first thing he noticed was how quiet and well reserved she was. She appeared to be in her early fifties with red long hair and laughlines on her face. Without trying to show his nervousness, Chad entered the office. He didn't know how Joanna was going to react. Once he told Joanna everything, he relaxed. She took the wallet and cellphone number from him. Chad, watched as Joanna dialed Angela's cellphone number. She answered on the third ring.

"Angela, will be here in a few minutes," said Joanna after she hung up.

A knock came on the door five minutes later. Chad answered the door to see Angela outside. As they said their hellos, Joanna, invited her in. Immediately, she handed the wallet and the cellphone number to Angela.

"Thank you so much." Angela, checked to make sure everything was in there. "My wallet must have gotten lost when I was putting away my glasses."

"Chad's the one you should thank." Joanna pointed in his direction.

"Well, thank you Chad."

He politely nodded. "You're welcomed."

Angela took out a $100.00 bill. "This is for you." She placed the money in his hands.

For a moment Chad stared down at the $100.00 bill. He shook his head. "I can't take your money. I am sorry."

"Why not?" asked Angela.

"Because, if I took your money," said Chad, "it wouldn't feel right."

Angela looked over Chad and sighed. "You're growing up to be a fine young man."

In that moment, Chad's thought process from hating his new job changed like a lightbulb. A slow smile spread across his face. "Do you mean that?"

"Trust me honey," said Angela, "you're an honest young man."

They all shook hands and said their good-byes. Angela just left.

As Chad was about to step out of the office, Joanna stopped him. She got up from her desk and stood directly in front of him. "What you did today was very noble." She patted him on the shoulder as she lead him to the door. "You have a bright future ahead."

"And, I am going to enjoy working here," Chad concluded. He went back to work.

 

 

On a cool October afternoon, thirty-three year old Adam Ackermann, stepped out of the florist and into his black Toyota car. In the rear-view mirror of his car, Adam, made sure his short black curly hair was perfect. He gave his face a once over glance in the mirror for any zits. Not one was in sight.

Out of his pants pocket, he took out a wallet containing the picture of his girlfriend, Mirabella. "Mirabella," he said to the picture, "today you're going to make me the happiest man ever."

Three years ago on a August night, Adam, and his best friend from high school, Keith, were at The Java Express coffee shop. They were sitting at a table drinking coffee.

"Man, I have tried every single dating website," said Adam in between sipping his coffee. "Not one of these dates has worked out."

"Even the bar scene is tiring." Keith set his coffee cup on the table. "Where are all the good women?"

Just then a tall slender woman of about age thirty with auburn red hair set her camera on the table directly in front of them. She put in a new battery and drank some coffee.

"Look at her," whispered Keith.

"She is a beauty," agreed Adam.

"Well, I am going over there."

"No. I am going there."

"I laid eyes on her first."

"No, you didn't."

Ever since they became best friends in high school, Adam and Keith never fought over a girl. That was just the way their friendship was. Adam, thought he was always better looking than Keith. Keith's jawline was too narrow. His hair was always messy. Plus, Keith was always into body-building. Adam, never understood why some men liked body-building, especially Keith. He always personally thought muscles that stood out never looked good on a person.

"Well, I am still going over there," said Keith.

The woman looked at Adam and smiled. He returned the favor.

"She looked at me."

Figuring out this was a no-win situation, Keith, sat back down. Adam walked over to the woman. He started talking to her about the camera. They introduced themselves. Her name was Mirabella, a freelance photographer. They talked for a while before exchanging phone numbers. After a few phone conversations, Adam and Mirabella went on a date, where he revealed he's a computer teacher. Over the next few months, they grew closer. One year later, they moved in together in Manhattan, New York City.

On his way to their apartment building, Adam, had hoped Mirabella was on a photo shoot. He wanted to decorate their apartment with candles to give it a romantic feel. Once Adam pulled upto Garden Apartments, he was surprised to see Mirabella's red Ford truck in the parking lot. So, he decided to park next to it. Garden Apartments, was a three story brick building. Along the walkway, neighbors had little gardens of flowers, which was one of the reasons Mirabella and Adam picked this place to live. They loved gardening together. Adam, entered the building. He whistled as he walked three flights of stairs to his apartment 3B. Before he entered the apartment, Adam, took out a small black velvet box from his right breast pocket. He opened the box, which contained a shiny diamond engagement ring.

Adam smiled. "Mirabella's going to love this." He put the engagement ring away. Both Adam and Mirabella discussed marriage. They had both wanted to get married.

Adam, put his hand on the door knob. He walked right in.

The photographs Mirabella took of different people and things lined up nicely on the walls, giving the apartment a comfortable feel. The left side of the apartment was a small kitchen area. Across the way, was a den/living room complete with a sofa, television, and a computer with a desk.

"Mirabella," called out Adam. Just then he heard heavy breathing coming from their bedroom. He quietly tipped-toed there, slightly opening the bedroom door ajar. To his shock, he watched as his best friend, Keith, and Mirabella were having sex.

"What the-"

At the tone of Adam's voice, both Keith and Mirabella jumped up. Their faces were beat red.

"Adam," Mirabella quickly caught her breath. "I thought you were at work."

"Well, I am not." Adam snapped. He turned his attention to Keith. "Keith, what the fuck were you doing screwing my girlfriend?"

"Man," said Keith, "I-I am so-so sorry."

Keith tried to look calm, although Adam could see he was nervous. "Look man, I don't want any trouble."

"You were my best friend, Keith." Another hit of anger rose in Adam's voice. "Get out!"

"Let me get dressed first," begged Keith.

Before Keith could grab any of his clothes, Adam, already had them in his arms. He headed out of the bedroom with Keith trailing behind, still begging him. Adam, threw open the front door and threw the clothes out. Keith ran into the hallway as Adam slammed the door.

Now, Adam's attention returned back to Mirabella, who was still in their bedroom. He stormed in there. She got dressed quickly.

"Mirabella, you're a fucking bitch." Adam's blue eyes raged with anger. Mirabella started crying. "How could you do this to me?"

Mirabella, took a deep breath. "I am not in love with you anymore. I am sorry."

"How long has the affair been going on?"

"Six months."

"Six months?" Adam sarcastically laughed. "Do you know, what the sick part is? I gave you three great years of my life."

From their closet, Adam took out Mirabella's suitcase. He stuffed her clothes into it.

"What are you doing?" yelled Mirabella.

Adam stopped what he was doing and glanced up at Mirabella. "You're moving out."

"You can't do this to me, Adam." She started to put her clothes back.

The night table stood by Adam's bedside. He went in there to retrieve the papers for their apartment.

"See this?" Adam pointed to his name on the apartment lease. "My name is on this lease, not yours." Mirabella, remained quiet. Deep down she knew he was right. He went back to throwing her clothes in the suitcase.

After all that was finished, Adam ran into the den/living room. Mirabella, heard a loud smash. She came running in. A huge portrait she took, laid on the floor in a million pieces.

"No!" she cried again.

"Since you hurt me," said Adam, holding another of her pictures, "I am going to hurt you back." One right after another, all of Mirabella's pictures came crashing to the floor. The pictures laid in a tiny million pieces. A neighbor downstairs banged on the ceiling with a broom.

Right out of his breast pocket, Adam, took out the black velvet box. "Remember when we started talking about getting married?" Through her tears, Mirabella could only nod. Adam threw the box at her head hard. The ring fell out.

Now shaking beyond control as she cried, Mirabella, bent down to pick up the ring. A second later, Adam stood by Mirabella's side with a duster, broom, and a garbage bag in his hands.

"Here's the stuff for you to clean up." He grabbed Mirabella by her left arm. "You are to be out of here by the time I get back. Is that understood?" Mirabella nodded in agreement.

Without saying another word, Adam left.

 

 

Rain poured heavily down on the roof of thirty-six-year-old Hillary Gilroy's apartment. She stood looking out her living room window while waving good-bye to her six-year-old so, Brian. Her ex-husband, Wesley, had him for the weekend. Her heart grieved as she watched them drive away.

"Well, it's just you and me Tabby," Hillary quietly spoke while she pat her white cat.

Hillary and Brian have lived in their second floor apartment at Forrest Green Apartments for over a year. Their apartment was complete with two bedrooms, a bathroom, a small kitchen, and a living room. Seeing the apartment for the first time, Hillary, felt it was perfect for them. Prior to all of this, they lived in a huge nice house in Stony Brook with Wesley. They sold the house after the divorce. Neither of them could afford it.

Just as she was about to make herself a cup of tea, Hillary, glanced at the laptop computer on the living room table. She decided to type Wesley a letter.

Dearest Wesley,

Writing you this letter via regular mail is really hard for me. If I had sent this to you in e-mail, you would have just deleted it like you deleted our life together.

Remember when we met fifteen years ago, on my 21st birthday? That was one night I will never forget. All of my girlfriends, especially my best friend from high school, Stephanie, took me to Wickers Dance Club. Legally, I was able to drink and have the time of my life. A bunch of guys walked over to our table. Your hazel green eyes locked with mine. I remember thinking Who is this tall gorgeous short red hair guy? You introduced yourself. We started talking.

After dating a few times, I took you home to meet my family. Right off the bat, no one liked you. My mother immediately sensed an arrogance in you. She tried to talk to me about you. When you're in love, you don't want to listen to other people analyze the person you're dating. So naturally, I ignored her.

Two years later, we got married. Wesley, we eloped because you didn't want a big expensive wedding. My dream was always to have an outdoor wedding. My heart was crushed, but, I went with your decision just to make you happy. What a big mistake! Looking back, I should have realized your controlling ways set the tone for our marriage.

Throughout our marriage, you critized and controlled everything I did. When I got

pregnant with Brian, you critized my weight gain and controlled what I ate. Finally, after years of trying, I was able to get pregnant by age 30. Wesley, you didn't seem excited when I told you I was pregnant with Brian. You eventually came around.

After I gave birth to Brian, you had no interest in making love to me anymore. You started going out all the time. One night, you came home late when I confronted you if you were having an affair. You confessed to having an affair with your co-worker, Janet. We went to couples therapy. Everything seemed to be working out at least for a while.

Last year, you started acting weird all over again. This time I decided not to confront you. I did a little investigating myself. While you were at work one day, I went on the Internet under your screen name. I clicked on the mailbox, when I saw Stephanie's screen name BabyGirl appear. After I saw her e-letter to you, I saw what no other wife should have to see: a picture of you two kissing. Needless to say, my heart jumped into my throat. I immediately called Stephanie to confront her. She confirmed the affair. My friendship ended with Stephanie, by calling her a few choice names.

The worst part had yet to come. My heart raced as I drove to your job at Radioshack with Brian in the backseat. Right in front of your co-workers, I confronted you. Wesley, you didn't seem as embarrassed as I was. That night as I sat on our bed heartbroken, I watched as you packed your belongings into a suitcase. Your very last words to me were 'I never meant for any of this to happen.' What a bunch of crap! Of course, you meant for this to happen.

A year has passed since our divorce was finalized. My motivation behind this letter is to make you see the pain you have caused me. Thanksgiving is a few weeks away. I am thankful you are somewhat out of my life.

-Hillary

A tear rolled down Hillary's cheek after re-reading the letter. She printed out the letter and envelope. She put on her raincoat and tucked her curly blonde hair in the hood. Hillary, walked down the stairs to her mailbox. Before she put the letter in, she read Wesley's address again.

Wesley Gilroy

21 Westwood Street

South Setauket, New York 11733

"Good-bye Wesley," said Hillary. She put the letter in the mailbox and walked away.

 

One rainy November night, Danica Fraystein, 28, left her waitressing job at the Liberty Diner in New York City. She thumbed down a cab.

"Where to lady?"asked the male Mexican cab driver.

"The Red Big Apple Bookstore," said Danica, "on 53rd Street." The cab driver drove and stopped, when they reached her destination. She paid the cab driver, thanked him, and left.

While on her computer last week, Danica, checked out her Facebook webpage. She got an e-mail from her old high school friend, Penelope Oliver. The two old friends met at Ward Melville High School in Setauket, New York when they were paired up in Biology class to be Lab partners. They always had a lot of fun hanging out after school together. Their lives took different paths after high school. Penelope, attended an out of state college. Danica, stayed behind to attend a New York college. She majored in music. For a short while they called and wrote each other letters. That all eventually stopped.

In one of Penelope's e-mails, she suggested they meet up at The Red Big Apple Bookstore. Danica, had never been there before. She didn't like bookstores, because she thought they were boring. Why Penelope picked this place, Danica didn't understand. Since Penelope suggested they meet up at the bookstore, Danica, didn't want to change the location.

Once inside the one level large indepentent bookstore, Danica, took off her black raincoat and matching hat. Her full figured body was revealed, as she ran her hand through her cherry red dyed hair. Off to her right some teenagers sat around on a couch as they listened to an accoustic guitar player. At the information desk, Danica, asked an employee where the cafe was. The employee told her straight in the back.

Danica, headed straight in that direction. She ordered coffee and checked her

watch. It read 6:45 P.M. She and Penelope agreed to meet at 7:00 P.M.

"Danica Fraystein?"

At the sound of the familiar voice, Danica, looked over to her left. There she was: Penelope Oliver. Danica, walked over to where Penelope sat at a table. Penelope had not changed much over the years. She was still slim and tall. Her once long blonde hair was now short.

"Penelope Oliver?"

Penelope nodded. "Now, it's Penelope Witter."

The two women embraced and complimented each other on their looks.

"Wow, it's been ten years," said Penelope, when they sat down. Danica nodded in agreement.

To Danica it felt so good to see her long lost friend. "What have you been upto these past ten years?"

As Penelope drank her tea, she filled Danica in on her life. She dropped out of college, moved to Florida, got married and divorced with no kids. She now lived in New York City.

"After all these years, I am still trying to make it in the music business," said Danica.

"Do you have a job?"

"My main job is waitressing, when I don't play rock clubs."

"I would love to see you play sometime."

A bolt of excitement struck Danica. "That would be great." She stuck out her right hand, to show Penelope her engagement ring. "You could meet my fiancee, Tristan."

Penelope took Danica's hand into hers. She thought the diamond ring was beautiful. "Congratulations! How did you meet him?"

"Thank you. Tristan and I met while I was auditioning bass players for my band." Danica, glanced at her engagement ring. "He played his way into my heart."

The two old high school friends became close again. One year later, Penelope, was in Danica's wedding party.

 

 

 

One Friday night, Roger Loughlin and his friend Jason Hartmann, both in their early twenties hung out at the Book Nook bookstore in Lottwana, Long Island New York. The guys sat in the cafe drinking coffee, while listening to a guitarist play Beatles songs.

"I don't understand why I can't attract a woman, Jason." Roger shook his head as he drank his coffee. "I tried everything from bars to Internet dating. Nothing has worked."

"You feel insecure about yourself." Jason tried to build up his friend's self-esteem. "You need to lighten up. Go with the flow."

Roger managed to smile. Jason and him have been friends since high school. Two things Roger liked about Jason was his honesty and to cheer someone up. "Yeah, but, my question is: How do I attract a woman?"

A thought clicked in Jason's head. He snapped his fingers as he sat up. "Who's your favorite author?"

"A mystery writer named James Patterson."

"Why don't we go over to the mystery aisle and see if there's any beautiful women?"

"Why would I want to do that?"

"Women are attracted to men who like to read," said Jason, "it makes the male population look smart."

Roger pointed a finger at Jason. "You got a point."

Before they were able to stand up, a young woman about age 23 put her books down on a table directly across from them. She didn't look attractive. She didn't seem to have any make-up on, although her long brown hair was neatly brushed. A blue flower print dress made her even look older.

"She has a few James Patterson novels." Roger looked over his shoulder. "I am going to talk to her."

"Why would you want to talk to an unattractive woman like that?"

Roger hated it when Jason made judgments on women based on their looks. "There's a lot more to a woman than just looks." He excused himself to use the bathroom. Roger, quickly brushed his blonde short hair to the right. He sprayed his breath and checked himself out in the mirror. Everything seemed perfect. Roger left the bathroom and spotted the girl still alone at the table. He walked over to her.

"Hello," Roger said.

The girl looked up. Instantly, Roger saw honesty in her green eyes. "Hello," she quietly spoke.

There was silence between them for a minute.

"So, what book are you reading?" asked Roger who now had more confidence.

"This one." The girl held up James Patterson's Along Came A Spider.

"James Patterson, is one of my favorite authors," said Roger who extended his hand. "By the way, my name is Roger."

A warm smile spread across the girls face as she shook Roger's hand. "I'm Nola." Nola, invited Roger to sit down.

"Did you read Kiss The Girls?"

"Yes, excellent book."

They talked for a while before exchanging phone numbers.

 

 

On an extremely hot summer day in California, forty-year-old Paul Palmer wiped the sweat off his forehead with a cloth at the Los Angeles Internation Airport mens bathroom. He combed his dark brown short wavyhair and checked his appearance out in the mirror. He left the bathroom with his carry on bag.

The runway gate was full of passengers. Paul, sat in a chair. Directly sitting across from him was a woman about thirty-five years of age working on her laptop computer. What attracted Paul to her was her green hazel eyes and shoulder length blonde hair. The dusty rose dress she wore fit perfectly with her slim body. He was about to startup a conversation with her when an announcement was made to board the flight.

The aircraft was crowded with people putting their carry on bags in the over hang. Once Paul was able to get to his seat, he noticed the beautiful woman sitting next to him. She was reading a book.

"Is that a good book you're reading?" asked Paul.

The woman looked up at Paul and smiled. "Why, yes it is."

"What are you reading?"

The woman shows him the cover of James Patterson's book Hide And Seek. The woman introduced herself as Donna. During their five hour flight to New York, they talked about different things. Donna told him she's a stockbroker and is going to the Empire State Building on business. Paul mentioned he's attending his sister's wedding. They also discovered they are staying at the same hotel The Big Apple Grande.

When their flight landed at JFK, Donna handed Paul her business card with her last name DeWitt on it. "Paul, here's my cellphone number," said Donna. "Call me and we'll have lunch or dinner."

Paul quickly wrote down his cellphone number and handed it to Donna. "My last name is Palmer." They said their good-byes.

All week long, Paul and Donna ate dinner at different New York City restaurants when she got out of work. He filled Donna in on his background whenever she asked. A high school math teacher in Los Angeles, Paul, was never married with no children.

Looking for a wedding band on her right hand, Paul, didn't see any. "What does your boyfriend think of you traveling all the time?"

Donna took a sip of her drink. "I don't have a boyfriend."

"Why?"

"Well, it's hard to have a relationship when you travel for work," said Donna, cutting into her steak. "Do you have a girlfriend?"

"No girlfriend for me," laughed Paul. "I haven't found the right girl."

After dinner Paul and Donna walked upto her hotel room. "My steak was delicious tonight." Paul didn't say anything. Donna took a step closer to Paul. She kissed him.

"You're a good kisser." Paul kissed Donna back. Soon they were undressing each other in her hotel room.

Hours after having sex, Paul, started getting dressed. "Donna, will we continue this relationship back home in California?"

"Paul, I haven't been completely honest with you."

At the sound of her voice, Paul turned to Donna who still laid under the bed covers naked. "What is it?"

" No, we can't continue." Donna sadly spoke. "I am married."

Anger rose in Paul. "You're what?"

"Married," she repeated.

"You lied to me."

"I am sorry."

" I don't need this shit." He walked out of her hotel room.

Forty-year-old Nathan Medwin sat at his home computer after he finished typing up flyers, staring at the screen. He waited until they finished printing out.

Small puppy found.

Safe in our home.

Call 123-4567

Nathan turned around in his chair to glance at the small brown blind female Dachshund as she played with chew toys. How can anyone be so heartless? he thought. "We will find your owner," he assured the puppy. Nathan, picked up the freshly bathed puppy with his hands, while holding the flyers under his left armpit. Together, they left the house to put up flyers all over town.

Earlier that morning, Nathan and his wife, Sarah, arrived at their business Vanilla Bean Dream, a coffee shop. They have owned the store for thirteen years. Their store was located in between a daycare center and a hair saloon in South Hawk New York, a busy Long Island suburb. Across the street stood a 711. Business was booming, considering it was the middle of July and nearing ninety degrees. Sarah and Nathan entered the store. She straightened up before the customers arrived, while he went outback to take out the garbage. Nathan threw the garbage into the dumpster, when a puppy started crying. He looked in the dumpster to find a small brown puppy in a big box.

"You're coming out with me." Nathan, ran into the store room. A second later, he came out with a big ladder. Being overweight and only 5'7" wasn't easy for Nathan. He no longer had the athletic build like he did in his twenties. Growing up Nathan always had pets ranging from snakes, cats,and dogs. Both of his parents and older sister, Janet, taught him how to respect animals. Nathan, favored dogs because they seemed loyal.

Once Nathan got in the dumpster, he took the crying puppy out of the box. When he held the puppy in his arms, the puppy stopped crying. "You're going to be fine," he said as he stroked the puppy. They left the dumpster. "Sarah, come here!" Nathan shouted from the back of the store room. Sarah appeared, her green eyes locked on the puppy.

"Aw, what a cute puppy," Sarah smiled taking the puppy from Nathan.

"The poor puppy was in the dumpster."

Sarah kissed the puppy on the nose. She didn't care that the puppy was dirty. "Who would abandon such a cute puppy?" Sarah and Nathan met in college almost twenty years ago. Aside from Sarah's good looks, with a slim body and long blonde hair, it was her love of animals that attracted Nathan to her. Not much changed with Sarah. Her hair was still blonde, but, short. "Well, the puppy is definitely a blind female Dachshund." Nathan looked over Sarah's shoulder. She was right. The puppy didn't have any eyes.

They discussed who would take the puppy home to bathe, feed, and print out flyers. Nathan, decided he would do it since he found the puppy. Sarah, wanted to shut down the store for the day so she could help find the puppies owner. Nathan, wouldn't let her. After all someone had to stay behind to watch over the store.

"Do we still have Sophie's shampoo?" asked Nathan.

"Yes," Sarah quietly answered.

Silence fell between them when Sophie's name came up. Sophie, was their black Lab who died last year. They missed her terribly. When they were first married, they learned that Sarah could never have children. To cheer Sarah up, Nathan took her to a pound. They looked at all the dogs and locked eyes on an eight week old puppy, they would later name Sophie. She brought them such joy. Sophie, was like the daughter they never had. Sophie, was well behaved around the customers, when Sarah and Nathan took her to work. When she didn't join them at work, they would take turns going home to check up on her, while the other watched the store.

At around 5:00 P.M. Nathan picked Sarah up at work along with the puppy in the car. He was very tired from being out all day putting out flyers, including on the 711 telephone poll. They had just arrived home when the phone had rung. Nathan answered it, while Sarah fed the puppy.

"Hello," Nathan said into the receiver.

"Hi, my name is Fiona," the female caller said. "I am calling about the dog."

A strange feeling came over Nathan, as he reached for a notepad and a pen to write information down. "Where did you see the flyer?"

"I saw it on the telephone poll at 711," said Fiona. "Is this dog a blind female Dachshund?"

"Yes," answered Nathan. "Are you the puppies owner?"

There was an uncomfortable silence on Fiona's end of the phone for a minute.

"Yes, I was the dogs owner," answered Fiona. "I don't want her back."

Nathan, didn't like what he heard. Immediately, he sensed an arrogance about her. "Why?"

On her end of the line, Fiona took a deep breath. "Well, I got the dog for my daughter Abigail's 7th birthday. She didn't want a blind dog. So, I took the dog and threw it in a dumpster."

Anger rose deep in Nathan's voice. "So, you took a poor blind puppy and threw it in the dumpster in ninety degree heat weather. You're a fucking bitch for doing that." Fiona started to say something. Nathan cut her off. "Your daughter is a spoiled brat, who is going to turn out just like her mother!" He slammed the phone down.

"What was all that about?" asked Sarah, who heard the commotion from the kitchen.

Nathan explained the situation to Sarah. By the look on her face, he could tell she felt sorry for the puppy.

"They don't deserve to have a dog," said Sarah, who smiled down at the cute puppy, "but we do. We're going to name her Caprice."

They gave Caprice a good life. She loved them right back.

 

 

 

On a hot sunny May afternoon, I stood outside the Fresh N' Clean Laundromat, in Stony Brook, New York. The Fresh N' Clean Laundromat stood in a long strip of stores, including an ice cream store. They were right next to each other. As I started to eat my chocolate hotfudge sundae, I stared into the laundromat store window.

A petite woman of about 45 years old with long black hair and green eyes, was putting dirty laundry in the washer machine. A once attractive woman in her youth, the years have caught up with her looks. Laugh lines appeared on her face.

What intrigued me about this woman, was that she seemed to love doing the laundry and sing to the radio playing in the background. As she was going through pockets, I noticed she wore a diamond wedding ring on her right hand.

While checking the pockets of a white shirt, the singing suddenly stopped. She took out a picture of a man kissing another woman. The woman's hands trembled, as she struggled to cover her mouth. Out of nowhere a tall, short brown hair man, who was about the same age came into the laundromat. The woman turned to him. The windows and front entrance door were open. Outside you could hear the whole commotion.

"Who is she Bruce?" the woman angrily held the picture of Bruce and the other woman together.

"Maura, please let me explain."

Maura sighed. "I'll let you explain. How long has the affair been going on?"

Bruces' face turned bright red. "Her name is Sue. She's my co-worker. We have been having an affair for six months."

Now more rage built up in Maura. "Six months? And I gave you twenty great years of marriage." She threw all of his laundry at him. "Here's your dirty laundry."

"I am sorry," Bruce begged. "Let's give our marriage another chance."

" When I am finished here, I am going to call my sister, from my cellphone to pick me up." Maura moved closer to Bruce. "I want you out of our house by tonight."

"Where am I going to go?"

"Move in with the slut."

After Bruce picked up his clothes from the floor he left the laundromat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One warm sunny Spring afternoon in May 2009, Matthew, a man in his late thirties brushed his short curly black hair in his car rearview mirror. He got out and strolled down to The Paws Four Loving Homes Animal Shelter in Bridgeport, Connecticut. As he walked toward the animal shelter, he noticed the once small white building changed dramatically. The black shutters were now a hunter green and they added a second story level. The new changes made the building feel more welcoming. A lot has changed since he was here so many years ago.

All throughout Matthew's life he grew up with dogs and cats. He prefered cats to dogs because they minded their own business. On their six month wedding anniversary, Matthew and his now ex-wife, Sharlene, went to The Paws Four Loving Homes Animal Shelter. Sharlene, also an animal lover wanted a cat. They adopted a white female kitten whom they named Fluffy.

Fluffy, was the child Matthew and Sharlene never had. They took her for walks everyday and played with her. Christmastime was Matthew's favorite holiday. He brought Fluffy cat toys and even had Christmas cards made up with a picture of Fluffy wearing Santa's hat. Friends and family thought Matthew was nuts.

As Fluffy got older, she wasn't the playful cat she once was. She slept a lot and developed joint problems. During the last year of Fluffy's life, Matthew and Sharlene took her to the veterinarian countless times for various health problems. Finally, there was nothing more anyone could do. Sharlene and Matthew made the heartbreaking decision to put Fluffy to sleep. Matthew cried hystrically as he watched Fluffy take her last breath. However, he was at peace knowing God would take good care of her.

A year past when Matthew started talking about getting another cat to Sharlene. She didn't seem too interested. In one of their conversations, Sharlene interrupted by saying 'I want a divorce.' She went on to say she had not been in love with him for a long time.

Hearing all this stunned Matthew. He didn't see any of this coming. Shortly after they seperated. Matthew, moved in with his parents, while Sharlene kept their house. Instantly, Matthew knew this wasn't the right time to get a new cat. A few months later, he and Sharlene were divorced.

Months later he still lived with his parents. Matthew looked online for apartments that allowed pets. He found WaterSprings Apartment Rentals, which was only two blocks away from his parents house. That day he went there to look at apartments and found one he liked. Within a month he moved in.

Now, Matthew, was inside The Paws Four Loving Homes Animal Shelter lobby. Everything looked spotless. Matthew lightly tapped on the sliding glass window. A woman opened it.

"Hi, may I help you?" asked the woman.

"Hello," sighed Matthew. "Would I be able to look at the cats you have available?"

"Sure, someone will be with you in a second."

"Thanks."

A minute later, an overweight woman about 50 years old with long red hair tied up in a bun approached Matthew.

"Hi, I'm Rose." She stuck out her hand for Matthew to shake. He shook it.

"My name is Matthew."

"So, you're here to look at cats?"

"Yes."

"Come follow me." He followed her through a door that led to the upstairs.

On the way upstairs Rose turned to Matthew. "You picked a good time to come to our pound. A lot of people are surrending their animals because of the hard ecomonic times we are facing." Rose opened the door to the cats room.

Once inside the cats room, Matthew noticed every single cage was filled. Not one was empty.

Just then Matthew felt something paw at his head and meowing. He turned around to see an oranged and white cat. The cat and him locked eyes.

"I would like to see this cat," he said to Rose.

Rose unlocked the cage and placed the cat in Matthew's arms, where it fell asleep.

"The cat is a ten-year-old boy," Rose volunteered the information. "His name is Bernie."

Matthew smiled down at the cat. "Why did his original owners give him up?"

"Well, the owners lost their jobs and their house," answered Rose, who seemed a little sad. "Bernie's been here for about a month."

Slowly Matthew turned Bernie around toward him. "Hey, Bernie, do you want to come home with me?" The cat meowed as if to say 'Yes.' Matthew, returned his attention back to Rose. "I'll take him."

A smile spread across Rose's face. "That's great!"

After paying for Bernie, Matthew took him to his forever home.