Maybe I'm Amazed by Andrea
Prologue
It had been a long and tedious day of rehearsals. I was quite thankful when Tony called. Tony was good for making people relax in the most stressful situations.
"Angie, Love, I need a favor?" Not the usual opening line from Tony. "OK, dear, what do you want?" I asked.
I heard a small giggle on the other end. Tony's laugh was infectious, I waited for his request. "Angie, a friend of mine needs some help writing an article, I thought maybe we could all have dinner. You could meet him and help him out, and spend some time with yours
truly. Not to mention having a splendid dinner." He always seemed to be looking for an excuse to go out for a bite, and who could turn down Tony Slattery. He was such a sweetie. "How am I going to help your friend, and who is your friend anyway?"
Tony giggled again, "It's one of the guys from the show, Greg Proops. He's writing an article for Elle on musical theater. I thought you might be able to help him out. We'll have dinner at the Savoy." Tony was a regular on the improvisational show, Whose Line is it Anyway. I Had never been able to figure out our relationship, but I was not complaining. Tony was the original good time boy, always shagging someone or other, spoiling his friends. I was glad to be included, especially since he was so good in bed.
"And if I agree to this..." I asked knowing that I would do it anyway. "If you do this, love, you'll have a lovely evening in the company of two men who will no doubt wish to be with you in bed at the end of the evening." I could almost see his smirk. "Really." I said with mock shock. "Are you looking for a threesome?" I could barely finish my sentence without laughing.
"Shall I pick you up at 8, Angie?" He knew me too well. "Sure thing, Tony."
I put down the phone. I could not recall Greg, not that I had time to watch TV. Most of my evenings were spend on stage, or at home in bed. Still, I had managed to acquaint myself with several of his coworkers. Josie Lawrence was a particular favorite of mine. Incredibly funny lady, Josie was.
I went through my closet carefully. I chose a simple black dress, calf length with a long slit. It was classic, yet not to plain. I tried to keep myself looking chic, but not overpowering. At 5'3 one had to watch everything from clothing to makeup. If I was out of balance, the results could be frightening. I Had just finished combing my pixyish hair into place when the doorbell rang.
"Angie, you look smashing," Tony greeted me with a kiss. I watched him eye me up and down, and thankfully met his approval. "Greg is going to love you." his impish giggle followed. I tickled him, prompting more giggles. "Are you playing matchmaker?" Again, I was assaulted by his lovely lips.
"Why would I give my favorite girl away?" he asked, lips trailing down my neck. Tony had a way of leaving you breathless. "Especially since he's married. Not that he'll even remember her name after he's seen you."
At the Savoy, we were directed to a table in the corner. "For privacy" Tony whispered. Greg stood, upon seeing our approach. I took in all the details, smart suit, curly light brown hair puppy dog brown eyes, and Buddy Holly specs. What a combination! Still without even having said a word, I Knew that I would like him.
"So, this is the sought after Angie" he took my hand and led me to my seat. I looked up at Tony, who just smirked back at me. "You're in the theater, Tony tells me." Greg stated. I nodded, still not sure what to expect from him. "What types of shows have you been in?" he asked.
I paused for a minute before speaking. "I did an off Broadway production of Evita, the Secret Garden here on the West End. Right now I'm working on a new show with Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe. A Pop Opera, so to speak."
Greg was a peculiar sort of handsome, I noted. He could very well have stepped out of GQ.
"Well, I've played the lead parts as well as supporting roles... In Evita, last summer, I played Eva Peron. In the Secret Garden, I was Lily Craven. I played several parts in Cats, which was my first show. I was a chorus member, that first year, then Jennyanydots, Bombalurina. I wish I would've had the chance to play Grizabella."
Our food arrived then. I don't think I touched more than a bite. I was completely engrossed with my conversation with Greg. It had been a long time since anyone wanted to hear me talk about my career. I think I talked the poor guy's ear off. He had a lovely smile.
" See that's why men don't like going to the theater." he announced gave him a questioning look. Tony giggled form his corner. Tony was being too quiet. He never played the observer. "The reason's simple, when me go out, they want something exciting and not showy. Theater is too high maintenance for most guys."
"Are you saying men don't like theater because they don't want to get dressed up?" I stifled a giggle of my own this time. "Allot of long running shows are exciting. Les Miz, the battle scene for example."
We launch into a heated debate from there. Greg was a stubborn man, holding to his opinion. Nearly as stubborn as I was. Neither of us noticed the passage of time. It was Tony who announced that we should be going.
"Greg & I have a taping tomorrow, so we need to be off." Greg stood, and helped me from my chair, taking my hand. I walked with him through the lobby. Tony went to get the car. I stood with Greg.
"So could we do this again?" he asked. "Without me asking all the questions." He squeezed my hand gently. "Please?""
I turned to face him. He was standing close. "Please." he murmured against my ear. I looked up at him and our lips met briefly. "Dinner tomorrow night?" he asked. I nodded, still in shock from the kiss.
"Tomorrow night then," his fingers lifted my chin. I found myself gazing into those puppy dog brown eyes again. I reached into my purse & quickly scribbled down my address & phone number, slipping it into his hand. "Eight o'clock" he whispered lips brushing mine. I had gone weak in the knees. He was smiling, as he helped me into Tony's car. I was shell-shocked.
As we pulled away from the restaurant, Tony chuckled. "Did you set us up, or what?" I asked as I stretched my legs. "No!" his singsong voice replied. "But he likes you, I was expecting him to pounce on you right there on the table, but Greg is too mannerly for that. So tell me about that kiss I just interrupted?"
I thought I'd die right there of embarrassment, but Tony went on adding fuel to my already red cheeks. "Are you going to see him again, maybe invite him to your party?"
"Tony, stop it. We're going to dinner tomorrow night. The guy's married for god's sake. And as for the party, are you & Josie coming? Might as well invite the Whoser cast too, Clive, Greg, Ryan, Colin and anyone else I suppose. And as for the kiss, it's none of your business, but if it makes you happy, it was incredible."
"So you liked him?" he asked. It was turning into twenty questions with Tony Slattery. This had to be my punishment for kissing a married man & enjoying it so thoroughly.
"How could I not like him? He's sweet, funny, intelligent, everything a girl could possibly want
in a guy. Which is why he's taken." Tony drove on at his usual breakneck speed, glancing over at me every few minutes. I tried to ignore him, but my mind would only focus on two things, Tony, who was apparently setting me up with his friend, and Greg, who's feather light kiss left me breathless and weak.
He went up to my flat with me "Angie, Greg is the nicest guy I know. I'm glad you like him & he could use some friends here."
"Uh, Tony, in 4 hours, I know this is going to be something that ends up as a more than just friends thing."
Friends didn't kiss you and leave you weak in the knees. Maybe I was reading too much into this. Maybe I was deluding myself over a simple kiss. It could've been a heat of the moment kind of thing. At dinner tomorrow, it would be like nothing had happened. I was fine, as long as I let myself believe that.
Chapter 1 Dinner Date
I tried not to think about my dinner plans. Keeping the day as normal as possible was the key. Neil & Chris spent my lunch hour with me, going over some character changes they had made.
"Before the show opens, we'd like you to do a concert. To show off your skills. Do some classics, some pop songs. A regular Sarah Brightman meets Elaine Paige, without sleeping with any of us."
We all laughed at that. "Celia is going to be a little stronger, too.Not as wishy washy as the girl from Song & Dance. More empowered and ready to speak her mind."
I laughed, my character was already rather outspoken and somewhat cynical. The guys were using their songs as the basis of the show. My big song in the show was "You Only Tell Me You Love Me When You're Drunk"
When I made it home that evening I was exhausted. It was nearly 7 p.m. as well. I had a quick shower & headed off to the bedroom to change. I couldn't wear black again. I'd appear the mistress of morbidity. Too make matters worse, I had no idea where we were going. So I could end up over or underdressed. Damn. I pulled out a simple black sheath. Just call me Morticia. Finished. Hair & makeup done. I added long white opera gloves. If it was a casual evening they could be removed, if not they were a statement of simple elegance.
The doorbell rang promptly at 8. Greg stood in the doorway, looking bashful and holding a bouquet of flowers. "For you, dear, for putting up with me last night." I laughed inhaling their fragrance. "They're lovely." he followed me to the kitchen to find a vase. He took the flowers from me and arranged them in the vase. "Don't want to ruin your gloves, dear."
His hand was on mine, gently massaging my palm. I sighed, wishing away the gold wedding band he wore.
"So, do you like Italian?" he asked. I nodded in the affirmative, as he led me out of the apartment.
"I'm really glad you agreed to have dinner with me. I thought I might have frightened you a bit. I'm taking you to this lovely restaurant. Mario and Gina's, they're a sweet old couple. Gina makes the best tiramisu I've ever had."
I gave him a playful punch, "are you trying to fatten me up?" His eyes immediately took in my appearance "It would take more than a tiramisu to do that." Greg had a lovely BMW, which he helped me into. "Just got my license over here, had to rent this. It's a man thing"
He turned the ignition and immediately the car was filled with the sounds of Lou Reed singing "Walk on the Wild Side" I looked at him in shock and maybe even horror. He had an evil glint to his eye. I glanced down at the floor, which seemed to be littered with CDs. Public Enemy, Nirvana, more Lou Reed. I took a deep breath, the Beastie Boys, well at least his taste in music proved him to be imperfect.
I reached over and forwarded to Perfect Day, which kept me at ease. It was on the tip of my tongue to comment on his taste in music, when he spoke. "Now I've scared you" he laughed "you little posh theater girl you." His voice was teasing but I could sense a hidden insult. I tried to avoid his gaze, the heat rushing to my cheeks. I let the song take up my train of thought. " it's such a perfect day, I want to spend it with you." We pulled into a small parking lot, it was only then that I glanced up at him.
"I'll bet you were the model girl growing up. Perfect clothes, not a blemish, popular." he was leaning over me. " I wanted so much not to like you." The next thing I knew he was kissing me. It was intoxicating, I felt like a schoolgirl necking in the car. "You should be snobby and unapproachable." he whispered nibbling my ear.
His hands were at the back of my dress. His lips were moving down my throat. " I can't want you like this." he muttered. " it's not fair"
I gave him a gentle shove and whispered "Behave" My lips tingle from his kiss. I wanted nothing more than to go on kissing him, but this was certainly not the time or the place. His lips brushed mine again. "And if I don't want to?"
I was like Jell-O. My head and hormones fighting a losing battle. "Greg, please," I put my finger to his lips. He kissed my fingers, then took my hand in his, pulling me to an upright position again. "You're even prettier all mussed up."
I gave him a playful swat. "You are so bad. Come on, shall we go in?" I fumbled in my purse for my compact and quickly touched up my lipstick, then followed him to the door. A lovely robust Italian woman greeted us at the door. "Gregory, I see you've brought a pretty woman with you." She smiled warmly my way as she sat us down. I overheard her whisper to Greg "A woman who is not your Jennifer." She then gave him a little nudge. His face colored.
A short while later, she returned with a bottle of wine. "This is our best vintage. Since my Gregory has brought a companion, it's my gift to you."
She poured each of us a glass of wine, and left us with our menus. Everything sounded wonderful, and the smells from the kitchen were very enticing. "Gina is like a mother to me. She claims to be able to see into the future. Is always telling me what I should or shouldn't do. Quite a doll, I always come here, when I'm in England."
I sipped my wine, having made my decision on ghonnchi and a salad.
"Yes, she does seem very maternal. How many children does she have?" He lit up a cigarette and took a lingering drag from it.
"None, which is why she gets close to the regulars. We're her surrogate family."
As if cued by the mention of her name, Gina appeared with a warm loaf of bread. We each ordered, but I noticed her watching me closely. It made me quite edgy. Before she went back to the kitchen, she stopped in front of me. "You two, You are fated to be together. It will not be easy, there will be many obstacles to overcome, but you will handle them all." Her gaze then shifted to Greg.
"Gina, you're scaring Angie." She only laughed her melodic laugh. "
Ah Gregory, Gregory, do you deny the chemistry that even I can see is there. You two, it's amore." And with a quick gesture of hands, she left.
"Amore, that's interesting, what do you think, Greg?"
He didn't say a word, he just raised my hand to his lips. It seemed like forever before he spoke.
"Amore" the word fell easily from his lips. "I can see it." he whispered, slipping a finger into his mouth. "You make me reckless, only amore would do that."
I think it's the wine, not me." I teased. " you hardly know me"
He kept my finger in his mouth. Each flick of his tongue sent shivers down my spine. He finally freed that digit, I was nearly a puddle in my chair. " I know you're beautiful, funny, sweet" he took a nibble at my finger " I want to know you"
" Greg, you can't" I pulled my hand away, but before I could go any farther, our food arrived. We each exchanged looks as we ate. I was trying to push the thought of Greg being my main course from my head. He just sat across the table from me eating, as if the sexual tension between us didn't exist. I wanted to wipe the smug look from his face.
"Why can't I want you?" he slipped his ring from his finger. "I can't change the fact that that I'm married, at least not right now." My eyes stayed on the ring he was rolling between his fingers.
"Can we go slowly" I managed to choke out. I sipped the wine. Gina had returned, clearing the table and bringing her husband along. Mario was short and stocky, he quite reminded me of the video game that used to be popular several years back.
"Tiramisu for our lovely couple." Mario smiled at me. "This one is pretty, you should keep her." he nudged Greg's ribs with a chuckle. " Set her up in a little flat, buy her pretty things."
Gina overheard and slapped her husband with the dishcloth. " Mario, for shame, To suggest such a thing. Anyone can see that his friend is a lady."
I blushed. Greg reached over and took my hand. "Enough you two. You're really scaring her." They smiled back at us and slipped away.
"This evening has been a fiasco." he chuckled spooning the tiramisu into my mouth. "You probably want no part of me now." I licked the luscious marscapone cheese from my lips.
"Not at all, I love being with you. I'm just not sure how this can work." I wiped some tiramisu for his lips, then licked it off my fingers.
"Your so bad, Angie, you're driving me crazy."
We finished desert and Greg paid Gina. "You bring this lady back, and you better be treating her nice."
I smiled and stood. Gina embraced me. "He'll treat you right. Greg knows better than to mess with fate." She kissed my cheek, then hurried back to the kitchen. We walked hand in hand to his car. I reached into my purse and pulled out the opera gloves that I had removed earlier.
"Ah so that's where they went" he helped me put them on. His hand worked the glove up my arm. When he reached my elbow, he tugged me to him. " I can't stop touching you. I'd better get you home, before I molest you in the parking lot."
I nearly burst out laughing. " Oh and imagine what would happen if our picture was taken. Comedian and actress Sex Scandal... Shagging on parked cars."
He swung me around as a light rain began to fall. He even held the car door open for me. "I wouldn't want you to get all wet." he muttered. I bit back the words that were nearly falling from my lips.
"Greg, I'm having a small get together on Friday, do you want to come?"
He gave me a lopsided grin and adjusted his glasses. "Will I know anyone there?" he asked, voice filled with tension. I nodded. "Most of the Whose Line cast will be there, care of Tony. He likes to take over my parties. So, you won't be amongst total strangers."
He seemed to relax then. "Tony takes over your parties then. I could be in for a wild night." We both laughed. The drive home seemed so much shorter. I wanted the drive to go on. Getting home meant sending Greg back to his flat. I was finding that quite distasteful right now. Pulling up to my building, I sighed. He leaned over and kissed me. "Friday" he whispered. I nodded adding "Around 8-ish. I promise I won't let Tony start any orgies without you."
His response was another kiss. "I'll be there" he whispered, between nibbles to my lip. When I finally left his Beemer, I stood in the rain watching him drive off.
Why was I attracted to him. He wasn't handsome in the classic sense, nor was he available. All in all, there was no reason for my feelings, except maybe for a cruel twist of fate.
Fate seemed to play a nasty part in all my relationships, so why should this time be any different.
Now, I had a party to plan. Thankfully Tony was a good friend. From the inception, he decided that he was the bartender for the evening. I had another friend who was going to do the catering , so the two biggest obstacles were overcome.
The next few days went by in a daze. Tony literally monopolized all my free time. By Friday afternoon, I didn't recognize my own home. At 3 that afternoon, the caterers took over my kitchen & Tony took over the bar, filling it with alcohol even I hadn't heard of. The only thing I had left to do was select music and get dressed.
Thanks to modern technology I programmed several hours worth of music in my CD player. You name it and I had it in the CD player. I always worried that I might offend someone with my taste in music, which was eclectic to say the least. I made sure that I had Lou Reed's "Transformer" CD in the player. I wanted to see Greg's face when "Walk on the Wild Side" played.
"So, Angie" Tony's voice chimed in "Are you going to stake your claim tonight?"
My cheeks flushed. I had been trying to put all sexual thoughts of Greg aside for the greater part of the past few days. Tony was chuckling. "You really want the boy, don't you?" I gave Tony a less than playful swat. I had no plans of discussing my desires with him.
"I'm going to get changed" I announced, exiting the room and the awkward situation Tony put me in. I took a quick shower and went in to stare at my wardrobe.
I was determined not to wear black again. I had also stipulated that the dress be casual. No black and casual, that about eliminated 90% of my wardrobe. I finally settled on a simple khaki skirt and a sheer print blouse with a tank underneath. I quickly touched up my makeup. Satisfied with my appearance, I went downstairs and waited for my guests to arrive.
Chapter 2 - Party Quirks
Slowly but surely, my guests began to arrive. My own friends seemed to get lost in the sea of Whose Line cast and crew. Josie and Paul were talking in one corner. I could see Colin and Ryan talking to Mike McShane. Nearly everyone was here. At 8:30 the doorbell rang again. I opened it to find Greg standing there soaking wet, his curls plastered to his forehead.
"Don't you dare laugh at me." he grumbled. "The sky just opened up on me." He shook his hair and planted a gentle kiss on my lips. " I brought us a bottle of wine, in case Tony drinks us dry."
I laughed, watching as he tugged off his raincoat. He was dressed head to toe in black, and his shirt was covered with skulls. So much for my being the mistress of morbidity.
He disappeared into the crush of people. His cologne lingered with me. I felt so childish, taking note of something as trivial as a scent. Still, the scent of him lingered even after I lost him to the masses that had taken over my apartment.
I mingled with my guests for what seemed like hours, not once getting close enough to talk to or even make eye contact, with Greg. The only time I actually communicated with him was when "Walk On the Wild Side" played. He looked my way and smiled then, blowing me a kiss.
"So that's the guy I've been hearing all about." my best friend Sherri piped in. I only nodded, trying yet again to follow Greg with my eyes.
"He's such a sweetie. I talked to hem earlier. He was extolling your virtues. Seems to have quite a crush on you."
I swung my head round. "A crush on me. That's an odd way of putting it. I'd just say he wants to go to bed with me."
Sherri laughed this time, and handed me a cookie. "The way he talked about you was nothing like a man out for a one night stand. This boy wants you for keeps."
"He can't very well keep me. He's married." I replied, finally catching sight of him. He was immediately at my side. I took the drink he offered sipping the champagne as he touched it to my lips.
"Sorry I couldn't spend more time with you tonight, people keep dragging me off," he whispered. He breath was against my ear, and again I was assaulted by his cologne I wanted so much to just bury my face in his neck, but any gesture of affection was out of the question tonight. There were far too many eyes upon us. It didn't stop him from pulling me into a dance though. It was a very short song. "You Must Love Me" from the film version of Evita. I loved this song from the first moment I heard it.
Now as I danced close to Greg, I loved the song even more.
"Angie, promise you'll sing this for me," he whispered, lips lightly brushing my ear. I nodded, resting my head against his shoulder. The song and dance ended all to soon. We separated with a brief touching of lips. Thankfully the party was almost over. I didn't think I could handle much more of this.
I wanted to be able to touch him, without interference. With all the people around, this was out of the question. People who knew him to be married.
It was 3 am by the time the last guest departed. I flopped down on the couch exhausted. I had nearly fallen asleep when my doorbell rang. I peered out to see Greg. I quickly let him in. He was soaking wet, again.
"The Beemer won't start, and I can't get the damn thing towed until morning" He was literally dripping on my carpet. "And if the rain doesn't stop, this damn island's going to submerge."
I was trying so hard not to laugh. He looked like a drowned rat. I took his waterlogged coat from him and hung it over the kitchen chair. I found the unopened bottle of wine that he had brought, and poured us both a glass. He was still dripping on my floor when I got back. "Greg, why don't you go, get out of your wet clothes, you'll feel better. You can crash here for the night." He downed the wine in one gulp. "Thanks, love." He trudged off to the bathroom. I sat on the couch pick at party food leftovers, sipping chardonnay. He came out a few minutes later, in the funniest cow print boxers I had ever seen. As if I'd seen many pair of cow print boxers. I bit my lip, trying not to laugh.
"Don't ya think I'm sexy?" he asked shaking his lovely rear at me. I quickly sputtered out a "No" in between laughs.
"No" he questioned in what seemed to be horror. "Well then," he strode off to the bathroom, only to return minutes later sans boxers. My jaw dropped.
"Do ya think I'm sexy now?" he asked. I was too stunned to answer. He moved quickly over to me pinning me to the couch. My arms locked around his neck, pulling him down. Our kisses were passionate to say the least. I let my hands trail down his naked body.
His own hands were working to rid me of my confining clothing. Slowly each offending garment was discarded, until we both lay naked on the couch. I slid my fingers through his damp curls and then trailed them slowly down his back.
"Mmmm, I'm beginning to appreciate a broken down automobile." he muttered, caressing my neck with his lips. His hands were trailing lower I arched my back to bring him nearer. His touch was like magic. I was like a purring kitten in his arms. I brought my legs around him. His hands moved over my breasts. I squealed tightening my grip on his hips.
"God, Angie, I want you." he muttered between groans. I felt him press closer. My legs parted beneath him. I waited for the joining of our bodies, but he continued with his caresses. I buried my face in his neck, inhaling the fabulous scent of him.
His hands gently pressed me back into the couch. His lips moved down my neck and over my breasts. When I reached for him, he grasped my wrists, pinning me to the couch. "Don't move," he whispered "Just let me touch you." I became still, letting him work his magic with his hands.
His lips made there dizzying descent. It seemed as though he had covered ever inch of my body in kisses. Wherever his lips moved his hands soon followed. His feather light caresses were driving me to the brink. I felt his tongue slip inside me. I could take no more. I let out a deep moan. His teeth grazed over very sensitive flesh.
I squealed out his name, hands clutching the side of the couch. His tongue was doing the most amazing things to me. His mouth moved back up over my belly and finally settled over my mouth. I nibbled at his lip, pressing, my hips to him. "Make love to me, Greg" I whispered. "Now" I added with urgency.
I felt his arms move under me. He lifted my off the couch and carried me to my bedroom. He deposited me gently on the bed, moving on top of me. His teeth grazed my neck. I moaned again, feeling him slip inside me. His hips moved slowly, driving me to the brink of madness. "Greg" I gasped repeatedly, feeling my body reach it climax. I felt his own shuddering climax minutes later. He rolled over then, pulling me on top of him.
"Angie," he mumbled holding me to him, "I like you like this. Didn't think anything could be this good." Our bodies were still entwined. I let my hips slowly rock against him. His hands grasped at my waist pulling me down. "Girl, you're trying to kill me" His hips moved slowly with mine and his hands were moving over my back. "Sweet beautiful Angie" his mouth claimed mine. I nibbled his lip. I couldn't imagine letting him go. Nothing had ever felt this way.
We didn't sleep until midmorning. Even then, it wasn't a deep sleep. I kept waking up to prove to myself that he was there. I watched as he slept, trailing my fingers up his belly. Sweat still glistened on his pale skin.
Chapter 3 Save it till the Morning After
Finally growing tired of laying in bed, I made my way into the kitchen. I went about making crepes, filling each little pancake with cottage cheese and raspberry jam. I carried a plate into the bedroom. He was still sleeping. I put the plate down on the night stand and sat down on the bed.
"Sweetie" my lips brush his ear. "I made you breakfast." He stirred slightly. I crawled on top of him, kissing him soundly. His eyelids fluttered and he deepened the kiss. "Did you say something about breakfast?" he muttered lips moving over my breast.
"Greg, I made crepes," I sputtered. At this point I didn't care one whit about the crepes. He sat up and picked his glasses up off the night stand. I picked up the plate and fed him a bite. "Mmmmm, you can cook too" he took another bite. "I'm not sure which tastes better, you or the crepes." His teeth grazed my shoulder. He finished the rest quickly. " I'll add cooking to your list of many talents."
"Do you want more?" I asked. A silly question. He nodded once, then tackled me. We collapsed into a fit of laughter and kisses. He tasted of raspberries. I savored each kiss. "God, woman you make me want to spend the rest of my days in bed."
I pulled him upright. "Come on love, I make you more crepes." He slipped my robe around my shoulders. "Wonder where I left my boxers" he mused. I was quite content to gaze at his nakedness, but answered anyway, "they are in the bathroom, luvvie." My hands made one last trip over his bare chest. He grasped my wrists before they could slip lower.
"Let me recover" he laughed, reaching out and tickling my ribs. I brushed his hands away, and hurried off to the kitchen. Moments later, clad in the hysterical cow boxers, he appeared in my kitchen.
"So, are you going to feed me some more?" he asked, peering over my shoulder. I slid a pancake on his plate, covered it in cottage cheese and jam, then rolled it up.
"Pancake Bur-ITO" he said in a terrible English accent. He picked the crepe up with his hands and proceeded to eat it. It was a greasy mess, but he seemed to be enjoying it.
He sat down at the table, still munching on his crepe. The grin he wore told me he knew how crass he was being. I just shook my head, pouring him a cup of coffee. He alternated between bites of the crepes and sips of coffee.
"So are you ready to throw me out?" he took my hand. I watched him as he played with my fingers. My eyes focused on his own hand, the gold band glittering mockingly back at me. Harsh reality. This man wasn't mine, and most likely never would be. Still, I didn't want to let him go. I needed him to much now.
I covered his hand with my own, blocking my view of the band of gold. There was too much to think about, too much to worry about. Greg wasn't someone you could easily dismiss from your life, or go without. He was a keeper, someone you wanted around all the time. I had to get my mind away from the subject. Keeping Greg was not likely an option that I had.
"So, how's the article coming along?" I asked with genuine curiosity. He smiled at me, one of those lovely, almost innocent grins. "I've a bit more research to do. Hearing you sing for example. Tony raved on about you. Could I come to a rehearsal?"
"I can probably manage that. My producers and writers want me to do a small concert before the show opens next month, will you still be around?" I asked the last question more for myself then for him. I didn't want to give him up. At least not this soon. He sipped his coffee. "I'll be in England for most of the summer, then back to LA in the fall and perhaps back here in the spring, depending on if Whose Line does well."
My smile disappeared. Through the summer. That was only 3 months. I stared blankly at him, rather unsure of my next words. He put his cup down quietly and stood. My eyes flew to him. I expected him to leave, but he didn't. Moments later I felt his arms around my neck and the soft brush of his lips against my ear.
"I know I started something I shouldn't have." he paused. I closed my eyes, feeling his warm lips on my neck. "I won't let you go, Angie. I've never known anyone quite like you."
I relaxed, letting my head rest back against his chest. His hands massaged my shoulders. His touch was light and gentle. I resigned myself to being the most temporary of mistresses. Still I wanted to beg him to stay.
"Smile for me." he whispered. "I won't leave you. I'll work something out." I held on to him, clinging actually. In the comfort of his arms, I believed him. I relaxed a little, and let our easy banter return.
"So, my little songbird, have you thought of your set list for the concert?" I nodded glad to have a happier subject to discuss. "A few songs from the shows I've been in. One or two from the new show, and a couple of pop songs. It'll be the first time I've gotten to sing Memory for an audience."
I got up and took my coffee mug into the living room. I sat down on the piano bench and began to play "On My Own" from Les Miz. Greg stood in the doorway. When I finished, he applauded. "You have a beautiful voice. Sing something else, now. Sing a pop song."
My fingers stilled over the keys for a moment. I slowly started the opening strains of ABBA's "Winner Takes it All" Greg was smiling, as he quietly sipped his coffee.
"I could listen to you for hours." and he nearly did. We went over many of the songs I was planning on using for the concert. He even sang along with me on a few. I don't think I ever enjoyed myself so much. "Are you going to do any songs from Phantom?" he asked.
"I don't think so, it's not really in my range." I replied, my fingers trailing over the keys. I was playing Angel of Music. He rested his head on my shoulder.
"Did you ever want to play piano professionally?"
I shook my head. "I'm not nearly good enough for that. I've wanted to sing since I was a little girl. I used to put on mini-musicals for my parents."
"So will you come to the taping on Monday?" he asked. "Maybe we could so something whit some of the others afterwards."
I put my arms around his waist. "You know what we should do?" I nibbled his ear. He pulled me across his lap and kissed me. My tongue teased his, each of us letting out little moans. "Mmmmm, maybe we should go back to the bedroom?" he suggested.
"I think I'm going to make you my sex slave. Cuff you to the bed and use you whenever I please." We laughed in between kisses. "Really love, I thought maybe we could go to this little karaoke bar. It would be fun."
He giggled, "Really?" He looked thoughtful for a moment. "I know, you just want to show off."
"We'll go after Monday's taping." I said. He was still giggling. "And I don't want to show off."
"Yes you do. You're a wanna be pop star, but your too posh to admit it."
I gave him a playful swat. "Oh yeah! I think I'll try out for the empty spot in the Spice Girls."
He groaned, "You'd never make it. You can sing and you don't have implants."
I pushed him onto the piano bench and perched on his belly. "Are you picking on my boobs?" I teased. He undid my robe and moved his hands over my breasts.
"Never." he muttered his mouth covering one. "I plan on worshipping them both"
I moaned loudly. "And when I become this huge poster, you'll write a tell-all book about them."
More giggles. That was how we spent the weekend; laughing, making love, and joking. I hated to see Monday arrive. We agreed to appear in public as friends, with a little help from Tony.
"See you in a bit love" Greg whispered, kissing me goodbye. He hopped into the cab and was off.
The Beemer had been towed sometime Saturday, but I don't quite remember when.
Chapter 4 - Causing a Commotion
Tony showed up on the doorstep a half hour later, wearing a huge grin. I was in the midst of dressing.
"Angie, God, what are you wearing?" I had slipped into a teeny tiny, yes, black dress. It barely covered the necessary parts. I grinned.
" So, you're shagging Greg?" Tony giggled "Oh god, that makes the practical joke all the more funny."
I perked up instantly. "What's the joke?"
"Clive and I decided Ryan and Greg are going to do Moving Persons today. You'll have to move Greg." Tony giggled again. "You'll definitely move him in that dress."
I grabbed my purse and off we went. Tony chattered on about the joke. "So, we're going to karaoke tonight. You've got a joke up your sleeve too.""
I nodded. "Just a little teaser really. I'm going to do my old Madonna routine. Just stir him up a bit."
Tony let out an outright cackle this time. His floppy bangs bobbing with each laugh. "I can see him getting more than a little stirred up. I can see him tackling you. You never do anything for a little reaction."
I laughed knowing how risqué my Madonna routine had been. "You know, Angie, I remember when you played the clubs, when you first came to London. Why did you go into the theater? You had quite a following."
I remembered the nights at the Raven. Skimpy, revealing dresses, bottles of wine and champagne. Maybe I could have been a pop star, but I'd never have made it on my own terms. I suppose the show I was working on was the closest thing to pop stardom I would get.
"Do I look like Celine Dion, luv? I can't be molded into an overnight sensation. I'm to big of a loud mouth."
Tony helped me from the car and we walked to the studio. "I can't believe you and Greg actually hooked up. I mean, I could see the sparks there, but I'd never think he'd have the guts to actually put the moves on you."
I laughed as he took me to my seat. "Remember to goose him at least once for me." I nodded. My eyes caught a glimpse of Greg. He was talking to Clive. He had on a lovely pair of black jeans, a bright blue shirt and vest. Very Sharp. It felt odd to be sitting there watching him work. I wanted to be able to go to him, talk to him.
When Clive announced Greg as part of Moving Persons, he nearly fell out of his chair. That of course was nothing compared to the look on his face when Clive pulled me on stage. I stood behind Greg, giving him a quick goose. He turned eyes full of shock. "Angie, God," his eyes took in my dress. "You're nearly naked!"
The game began. I couldn't tell you what we were supposed to be doing. I just delighted in touching
Greg, moving him into awkward positions, with even more awkward positions of hands. At one point my hand was on his thigh. I watched as the color rose to his face.
Ryan was trying not to laugh. My hand went to his head, pushing him quite near to Ryan's crotch. Ryan cracked a smile, and ended the game saying "I never knew you felt that way, my friend."
The crowd burst into laughter. Greg turned to me. "I'll have my revenge, you know." he whispered.
His face was still flushed. I gave his bum a swat as I walked back to my seat. If Greg thought he was getting away with just that, things were going to get worse. Clive announced. "Tonight's winner is Greg Proops. And the prize for winning is to do the credits in the style of my choosing. A Male Stripper."
Greg's face froze, then took on a slightly ornery look. "Oh ladies, you know you want me." he tossed his vest to the audience. "I'm sexier than Ryan Stiles or Tony
Slattery." He was unbuttoning his shirt.
"Richard Vranch only wishes he had a bod like mine." The shirt was tossed away and he began a lovely bum wiggle. The other 3 came down. Tony tossed some change at
him. Looking offended, Greg rattled off a few more names and started to unfasten his jeans. Within seconds he stood on stage in a pair of paisley boxer shorts.
Tony was at my side a few minutes later. "Girl, Greg's waiting for you. I hope that dress isn't hard to remove." I was smirking. I still couldn't get the picture of Greg in the boxers out of my mind.
Tony led me into the dressing room. Greg was seated casually on the vanity, still in the boxers. His eyes still held that wonderful gleam of orneriness. "Want me to finish the striptease?" I reached into my purse and grabbed the first bill I could find. He was doing the
bum wiggle thing again. One could definitely appreciate the bum wiggle. I reached out and stuffed the bill down his boxers.
"You know you want me." He was so incredibly sexy when he was being silly. He did a little bump and grind, sending shivers down my spine. "You do want me." His arms drew me closer. I could feel each pelvic thrust and it was driving me crazy. He wore a silly grin as he started to tug the boxers down.
I felt him lift me. My legs locked around his waist. "That dress" he groaned. He propped me up on the vanity. His hand slid up my thigh. "Mmmm, you do want me." I sighed feeling his fingers slipping over me. "You're such a bad girl" his lips trailed down my neck.
I tickled his back. "You're just blaming your lust on my dress." The hem of my dress was slowly inching upward. "And perhaps you fancy a quick one before we go out."
"I don't think I could have a quick one with you." He bit the inside of my thigh. "But I might exact my revenge, by teasing you a bit."
His tongue was sliding over my thigh. His teasing was killing me.
"Do you have any idea what that dress did to me?" His hands gave a tug to my panties. "Thong?" he questioned. "Why bother." I couldn't even respond, his mouth had found it's best revenge.
We were interrupted by a knock at the door. "Come on Greg, it's time to go!" I groaned and quickly adjusted my dress, not even bothering to retrieve the panties. Greg quickly started to dress.
He took one last look at me, I think to check on how well teased I looked. When he was satisfied that I didn't look like we had been in a rather intimate situation, he opened the door. Tony came in and gave me a wink, slipping his arm around my waist.
"Are you giving Angie and rough time, Greg?" He looked absolutely flabbergasted at this remark. "It was a joke, Greg."
"Yeah, and you had all your clothes on at the end of today's taping," Greg responded as Ryan and Colin joined us.
We piled into my car. Tony was seated beside me. Greg leaned over the seat. "So, what are you going to sing for us?" I could feel his breath against my neck. "You've got something up your sleeve, girlie, that's why you're wearing that itty bitty dress."
Ryan nudged him. "Nah, she's just trying to put the moves on Tony." I could see the dirty look he shot Ryan. Possessiveness was sometimes a good thing, and this made me feel as if I was important to him.
The karaoke bar was dark with a few people mulling about. One person was doing a rather poor job of singing Against All Odds. We each scribbled out our choices. I was finding it hard to keep a straight face.
Greg was the first of us to step up to the mic. I was terrified of what he had chosen. I envisioned him doing "Walk on the Wild Side" or "Fight For Your Right to Party"
I should have realized that he too was up to something. He was wearing a shit eating grin. When the music started, my jaw dropped. He was singing "500 miles" by the Proclaimers.
He was really hamming it up on stage. He had the little bum wiggle going on again as he pranced about the stage. He even had the accent down to a tee. He took turns singing to me and Josie. We were all laughing. I never thought silly could be so sexy.
Tony nudged me. "I can't wait to watch his face when he sees you sing." I gave him a sly smile. This might be the only chance I had to publicly display any affection for him, and I was going to make the best of it.
When I took to the mic a few minutes later I really had to regroup. My first song was Madonna's "Causing a Commotion" As I started the verse, I strode over to Greg and sat on his lap. My fingers tangled through his hair as I sang. His face colored. "You met your match when you met me. I know that you will disagree it's crazy, but opposites attract you see." I pulled him to me by his tie and continued "And I won't let you get away so easy."
I continued to tease him throughout the song, with little touches and caresses. He was soon playing along. I even had him dancing with me a bit, though the blush never really left his cheeks. By the time my second song started, he was more relaxed. My eyes locked on him. He smiled. "You've got style, that's what all the girl's say." I sang. I could hear that lovely laugh of his. I was serenading him. "All your suits are custom made in London. But I've got something that you really like." My hand slid down his thigh. His face colored again and he gasped.
We both had so much fun that evening, drinking bellinis and whiskey sours. We were becoming more uninhibited as the night progressed. We even managed to escape the other Whosers for a bit, finding a table of our own.
"You know I'm going to be in Scotland soon," his fingers moved slowly over my hand. "Please come for a few days if you can. I don't think I can handle being without you." He downed his whiskey sour in a gulp. "Four days and I can't imagine my life without you." His lips trailed over my fingertips.
"Greg" I whispered. His fingers moved slowly down my jaw line. He leaned forward and pressed his lips to mine. "Greg" I whispered again, as his lips came crushing down on mine.
"Angie," he nibbled my lip. " I think I love you." He kissed me again. "Come closer, Angel." The next thing I knew, I was on his lap. His lips were teasing mine and trailing steadily down my neck. "Do you even feel a bit like I do?" he asked.
I answered him with a passionate kiss, moving my lips on to his throat. This man had turned my world upside down in only four days. How could I not love him? I whispered my "I love you" softly into his ear. It seems that he'd decided to damn the consequence of our being together.
"My little pop star," he muttered, tickling my ribs. "You do a pretty good Madonna." He raised my glass to my lips. The amaretto sour warmed my throat. "Maybe you could be a Spice Girl, but what kind of Spice would you be?"
"mmmmm, or maybe I'll just be the next Madonna. I like little bitty undies."
"Really, you like wearing cones and tassels on your boobs?"
I nodded, taking another sip of my drink. I was beginning to feel the results of multiple bellinis and sours. I was a bit lightheaded. "That's me, Angie the exhibitionist." A giggle escaped my lips.
"Oh dear, your drunk." his arms tightened around me. "I should get you home."
I gave him a questioning look. "At this point" he replied "I don't care what anyone thinks."
He stopped only for a minute to hand Tony the keys to my car, explaining that he was going to see me home safely. Tony took one look at me and laughed. "You take good care of her, Greg. Or you'll answer to me." He gave Greg a playful swat. "I'll bring her car around in the morning."
I was a bit dazed as he ushered me out into the night air. In minutes he had hailed a cab, and we were on our way home. His arms locked around me, and I snuggled closer.
"Remind me not to let you have the big glass anymore." I let out a girlish giggle. He gave me a very concerned look.
"Angel, you're tittering, and I know for a fact you're not a woman to titter." I let out another more high pitched giggle. "I'm getting you straight into bed when we get home."
I couldn't resist another giggle, and I slipped my hand up his thigh. "Oh no you don't" he took my hand in his. " I much prefer you coherent when we make love."
I vaguely recall the lift ride to my flat. He slowly undressed me and tucked me into bed. After a few minutes, when he hadn't crawled in next to me, I went in search of
him. He was curled up on my couch, TV on, clad only in his boxers. I moved unsteadily forward. My
legs were like jelly. I crawled on top of him, snuggling closer.
"You're supposed to be in bed, my little lush." he whispered, as I snuggled closer. He carried me back to the bedroom. This time he crawled in beside me.
"Not going to sleep without you." I muttered. "I love you." My hands slid down his back. I was dizzy. I wasn't sure if it were from the drinks or the emotion.
I finally drifted off to sleep, content that he was nearby. I didn't wake until the following afternoon, and it was to the sound of raised voices. My head throbbed and the shouting match going on outside in my living room didn't help.
"Do you have any idea what you're doing! You're a married man, and everybody knows it." Tony
raged. "You could've been more discreet."
I heard the sound of glass breaking. I didn't even want to find out what was broken. "Discreet, she was
falling down drunk. Did you expect me to just sit there. And you agreed to bring her car around today.
You knew I was going to stay with her. You saw her, she could barely stand up. How could I leave
her alone?"
More glass. I struggled to my feet. I was scared of what I'd find when I'd leave the confines of my
bedroom. Tony raged on. My head pounded.
"You didn't have to get all cozy in that corner, though. People noticed."
I groaned as I moved toward the door. I wanted to choke Tony. It was Tony who seemed to have
pushed us together, now he was arguing with Greg about our relationship.
"What difference does it make if people noticed?" Greg fired back "It's our business, not theirs."
I crept into the room, resting my hands on Greg's shoulders. "But what if your wife finds out." I
whispered. Both of them grew quiet. None of us had ever really mentioned Jennifer. I stepped quietly
away from them my head pounding.
"Look, what's done is done. I love him, Tony." my arm tightened around Greg "Whatever happens, I'll
deal with it."
Tony shook his head. "Four days isn't love, it's hormones. What happens when he goes back
home," he added "to his wife."
"Look, Tony, what happens here with Angie and with Jennifer isn't any of your business. Jen's my wife. I'll take care of this, and Angie, somehow."
I could see the guilt in his eyes. If I had the strength to let go, I would've then, But I couldn't. I was
selfish. "Then I'll take what little time I have with him then." I whispered. My head felt like it was going
to burst. I lay down on the couch pulling a pillow over my head, in attempt to block out the world.
I felt two hands slip slowly down my back and then the sound of a door shutting. I knew Tony had finally left. "Come on, let me put you back to bed." Greg said. This would be the third time today that he'd carried me to my bed. It seems I was making a habit of this.
I kissed his neck, my hands tugging at his boxers.
"Angel" my head moved down. He groaned. I nibbled his thigh, keeping my eyes on his face. "Oh Angel," My mouth moved slowly over him. "Angel no." he slid me up and rolled me onto my back.
"Go to sleep." His arm went across my waist, and he rested his head against my shoulder
"Ill never drink from the big glass again." I mumbled. My head rested on his shoulder. I was quite sure it was going to explode soon. His fingers trailed over my forehead. I could see the troubled look on his face.
"You should go..." I sputtered. "What if your wife has tried to call you? I don't want to cause you any problems."
"I'm staying with you." he held me tightly. "Don't you even think of sending me away. I love you." His lips moved over my shoulder and slowly trailed down. His hands pushed open my robe. "I won't leave you." his lips teased as they moved lower.
I groaned wrapping my legs around his waist. I pressed closer. He pushed me back down on the bed. "But...." I was silenced by a kiss. "No buts, I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying with you. Or if you want you can come to my apartment, but I'm not leaving you."
His hand moved slowly up my thigh. I groaned letting my legs part beneath him. His touch was so light. "Greg, more..." I moaned. His finger slipped deeper. My nails scraped down his back. "Of this...." His finger stroked and probed. "Or this..." his tongue quickly replaced his finger. I squealed grasping the edges of the bed. His tongue worked a wonderful magic.
"What else do you want?" his hands moved over my stomach. "This?" they trailed up over my breasts. I gasped, nodding. "Yes that." His fingers teased my nipples. I pulled him to me, my body tingling from his touch. "Let me." I started kissing his neck.
"Let you what?" he asked. I rolled him onto his back straddling him. His hands still fondled my breasts. "Let me make love to you."
A smile spread across his face, or bodies moving in a rhythmic dance. I couldn't believe I was doing this. Why did being with him have to feel so right?
I was never one to give myself over to girlish delusions of grandeur. I like to pride myself o knowing that sex and love were tow different things, that often didn't go together. I don't know what made me desire this man the way that I did, but I had the suspicion that it was more than just hormones.
There had never been anyone in my life that could do the things that he did to me. He could make me laugh, he could make me think and worst of all he could make me lose my desire to be alone.
I never let anyone into my life this much. At least not anyone so capable of destroying everything. I already knew that losing him would leave a very empty spot in my life.
His body was still tangled with mine. His head rested comfortably on my chest. I let my fingers slip through his curls. He nestled closer, his lips brushing over my breast.
"Greg" I whispered, my fingers trailing over his brow. His eyes were closed. I watched the slow rise and fall of his chest as he slept. He was a beautiful man, sweet, gentle and caring. My eyes focused then on the clock; 6 p.m. Thankfully, neither of us had anyplace to be.
He rolled on his stomach. I curbed the urge I had to run my fingers down his back. His sleep was too peaceful to disturb. I pulled myself from the bed and headed for the shower. The warm water assaulted my senses. I so wanted to be back in bed tangled with Greg, but I knew there were things to be done. I wrapped myself in a warm towel and padded out to the kitchen. Six extra hours of sleep could cure any hangover.
I clicked on the coffee pot and went for the papers. The highlight of my day; reading the news and the gossip. I made a quick scan of the world news. When I was satisfied that the world was still turning smoothly, I opened the more gossipy papers. After a few moments of reading, my eyes were assaulted by a brief but noticeable headline, "The Comedian and his Showgirl"
My eyes scanned the article in complete disbelief. The article was about us. It went on to say how happily married he always appeared to be and that on several occasions when asked to comment on his wife, he simply stated that he didn't deserve her. My eyes flew down the column. I was not being portrayed in a very nice manner.
I picked up the paper and went into the bedroom. I gave Greg a gentle nudge. His eyelids fluttered.
"Mmmm" he murmured, looking toward the clock. "Afternoon Angel." He tugged at my hand and
brought me down on the bed. "What's wrong?" he turned me to face him. I just handed him the
paper.
"Fuck" he tossed the paper aside. He took me into his arms and held me close. My hands moved up over his face. I had to touch him. To commit to memory every last bit of him. My hands slowly slipped down over his shoulders. His own hands grasped my arms and brought me closer still.
"I can't believe how stupid I've been." he muttered. "They tore you to shreds." He hurled the paper at the wall. "How dare they judge you. They don't know anything about you."
I stood and began pacing the floor. "But what do you know about me?"
I was giving him a chance to leave. To salvage what he could, but instead of leaving he just studied my face. It was quite unnerving. As always, he chose his words wisely.
"I know you care passionately about music. You feel each song. You wouldn't be able to shock if you didn't. You can make people see what you're feeling when you sing. I don't think anyone who's heard you sing hasn't been affected by it. You're intelligent." his voice dropped to a whisper. "You don't want people hurt..." he held my face in his hands. "Which is why you're trying to let me go."
He brushed away my tears. "Let me stay..." His fingers moved over my lips. I whimpered. "I won't let you go. Not when we've only just begun."
I stepped out of his embrace. My head was telling me to show him the door. To save ourselves before things got ugly, but his eyes were sending out their own silent plea. I wanted him to stay.
"What about your wife? What if she finds out?" I sputtered
I left the room and went back to the kitchen. I left the words hanging in the air. I poured myself coffee, wondering if the man was worth it. My reputation was sullied now, but I couldn't imagine how I'd exist without him.
I didn't notice that he'd come into the room. His arms slid around my waist. He felt so good. "Don't tell me to go. I want to stay with you."
I turned to confront him, but was silenced by a kiss so passionate I couldn't fight. When he finally broke away, I was breathless. His arms lifted me until I was cradled in his arms.
He carried me back to the bedroom, where he gently placed me down on my bed. He sat next to me, arms still around me. "I want nothing more than to make love to you, but I know it wouldn't be right."
"Greg, if you're wife finds out. What then? I lose you and you lose your wife. Am I worth it?"
He lifted my chin. "Being with you is worth every minute. But I know you want me to go." his words were soft. "I need you. I haven't felt this way about a woman..." his voice drifted off
"Since you met your wife." I added choking back a sob. He sat silently next to me. I felt his hands move down my back. How could I let him go. There was so much I wanted to share with him. My concert was one. I wanted him to be a part of that. I wanted him to stay.
"Don't make me leave. I don't want to live with the regrets." His lips were close and I could feel his
breath on my face. He was kissing my tears away. I didn't want the regrets either, but I could see so many on both sides. The regret of destroying a marriage and the life of a woman I didn't even know. Then there was the regret of not truly getting to know Greg.
"It's only been 4 days. You shouldn't try to make more out of something that isn't there."
I was being harsh, but right now I was prepared to deal with the pain of letting him go. Months down the line, it might not be so easy. His hands pressed me down on the bed, so I was lying on my back.
"You don't mean that." his words spilled into my ear. "You know there is something between us. It's
been there since we met." Now it was his turn to be harsh. "You melt every time I kiss you or touch you."
I couldn't deny it. My body practically begged for his touch.
"I just don't want to get hurt or see you hurt." I was shaking. "There's no winner in this"
I could see that he was troubled by this. He turned away from me. "Greg, don't..." he returned to
the bedroom, I followed quickly after him. He was tossing his clothes in a duffel bag. "No, You're right. This isn't fair to you, but there is still so much," his voice broke off.
"Greg." I couldn't speak for fear. He was walking to the door. He turned back once before opening the door. Hot tears spilled down my cheeks.
"Don't cry." he whispered. "I need to think. I don't want to hurt you or Jen." He came close to me, his lips kissing away my tears before settling on my mouth.
I buried my face in his neck. His hands roamed my body. I knew this was likely to be the last time I would hold him. I brought his face closer kissing him passionately. He very gently pushed my hands to my sides. My eyes closed. I only heard the shutting of the door.
He was gone......
Chapter 5 Take a Bow
I spent weeks dazed and confused. Work was my only release. The show was shaping up quite nicely, but my true release came from the concert rehearsals.
I put in hours and hours choosing songs. I concentrated on musicals I has worked on before. Songs like Another Suitcase, Another Hall, You Must Love Me and I Know Him So Well.
Each song reminded me of Greg in some way. I want to choose happy pop songs, but I ended up
with The Winner Takes it All and Take a Bow. I adored each of the songs, but singing them became an obstacle. Tony sat through many tear-filled rehearsals.
"You want him here don't you." his hands massaged my shoulders. "To torture him with each song."
I sighed as I softly sang "The Second Element" It had been months since our affair ended. Months, far longer than the 4 days we spent together. I knew he had gone to Edinburgh and returned to California for a time. I was nothing but a glitch in his life.
"I don't think he'd care. You were right all along. It was just hormones." I sat down on the stage. I had a full orchestra at my feet. This was my dream. My show opened a week from the date of the concert and it looked to be a great success. I shouldn't let a broken relationship ruin it for me.
"Angie," Tony's arm slipped around me. "You're beautiful talented and about to make a huge success of your career. Don't dwell on Greg. But if it would make you feel better, he would like to see you."
I stood and paced the stage. Albert Hall, the most prestigious concert hall in England. More people than I had ever imagined would be filling the seats and dammit, Greg Proops would be one of them. I left the stage and went to my dressing room
I picked up an envelope and carried it back to Tony. "Give this to him, with my regards."
"Just don't let it get you down. This is how it should be. Jennifer is a good sort."
I sat down at the piano letting my fingers glide over the keys. I was playing "They All Laughed" Probably the happiest song I had done in months.
"That's my girl" Tony cheered. "I never knew you liked jazz."
"I like allot of things you don't know about."
I went home that night with allot on my mind. I had added five new songs to my set, a few more Madonna songs than my agent cared for. My dress was long and silver and strapless. Everything was perfect, and I wanted it to stay that way.
The rest of the week was manic. Dress rehearsals for each show, learning new lines, monologue, set changes, it was maddening. I was exhausted each night when I fell into bed.
Opening night finally arrived. My big night. My dress fit to a tee. Short dark hair, dark red lips and a hint of shadow on my eyes. I saw a stranger in the mirror.
Tony held a bouquet of roses. "Knock em' dead, kid. Tomorrow you'll be a pop star."
I kissed him, putting the roses on the vanity. My hands shook. The hall was full. I stepped on the stage. The lights dimmed, but not before I caught a glimpse of Greg in the front row.
I sang softly. "I don't expect my love affairs to last for long. Never fool myself that my dreams will come true." The words poured straight from my heart.
I started my monologue. "I'm glad to see you all here. I'll try not to bore you with attempts at being
funny. I'll leave that to the comedians who do it so much better than I..." the audience chuckled. A few of the songs I've been playing for years. If any of you saw me at the Raven in the late 80's, I hope I've gotten better. This is one of those songs."
I launched into Abba' The Winner Takes it All. Each song brought back bittersweet memories of a four day affair. When the song ended I could see Greg clearly. He was dressed in black with a pair of gold wire-rims sat on his nose. He'd changed a bit. He looked more sophisticated. My heart lurched. He had truly won that round.
"Sometimes a song really expresses your inner feelings. I've always enjoyed singing songs that are full of emotion. I just recently heard this song again and I knew I had to perform it. It's called Sacrifice."
"It's a human sign...when things go wrong. When the scent of her lingers and temptation's strong. Into the boundaries of each married man....sweet deceit comes calling and negativity lands...Cold cold heart, hard done by you. Some things look better baby...just passing through. And it's no sacrifice, just a simple word. Two hearts living in two separate worlds."
That about summed up our affair. I went direct into Take A Bow. My heart knew this was my final goodbye to Greg.
"Make them laugh...it comes so easy. When you get to the part where your breaking my heart. Hide behind your smile....All the world loves a clown..."
I finished the song on my knees. My eyes were staring into his. I held my tears back, as I was showered with roses.
I stood and took my bows, quite overcome with all the applause. Tony's outstretched arms awaited me at the side of the stage.
"It's all right baby. You were incredible. I never heard you sing like that." I went back onto the stage. I picked up the microphone. I looked stage left. My friend Elaine Paige stood smiling. I nodded to her and she joined me.
"My dearest friend and mentor, Elaine Paige."
The was I Know Him So Well, from the musical Chess. Elaine was a woman who really needed no real introduction, having starred in so many hit musicals. I was more than honored that she agreed to sing with me. Throughout rehearsals I often thought of Jennifer. The woman I'd never seen, but who'd shaped the last months of my life.
"Wasn't it good? Wasn't he fine? Isn't' it madness he can't be mine..." by the end of the song I was in tears. Elaine led me from the stage after we took our bows.
"Your young man was here then?" she put her arm around me. I merely nodded still too overcome to speak.
I sat in my silent dressing room. I knew I should just get changed and go back home, but I was too drained to move. I ignored the tapping at my door hoping that whoever it was would go away.
Soft hands touched my shoulders and four long-stemmed roses lay on my dressing table. "I've sorted things out."
I took his hand, feeling the gold band still on his finger. "Have you?" He pulled me up. His hands slipped through my hair. His first kiss was gentle. I felt his hands on my back, undoing my zipper.
"Don't Greg." my voice was a whisper, and one he chose to ignore. The dress fell to the floor seconds later.
"Angie, you are so beautiful. You were incredible tonight. Better than I ever imagined." his words spilled out at an unusually rapid pace. I wondered what was going through his mind.
"Angie..." he kissed me again with more passion. "Jen's here...I just had to" his voice broke again. I wiped his tears.
"Say goodbye...." I finished for him.
His kisses were more demanding. I wanted to make him stop, but I couldn't. I needed his touch. I was tearing at his clothes. His suit was quickly discarded. My fingers stroked his chest.
I wanted so desperately to say "I love you" but I knew it was out of the question. He was kneeling over me, unhooking the clasp of my bra. My back arched aching for the feel of his hands.
His lips were at my throat, moving slowly downward. My hands strayed to his head, running my fingers through his curls. His mouth gently suckled each breast. I moaned feeling his hands slip down.
"Greg" I gasped as his finger found it's way to my most sensitive flesh. His lips slowly trailed down my stomach. "God, Angel, I've missed you." he muttered, "I need to taste you."
I squealed, reeling from the sensation. His hands gently parted my thighs. His tongue quickly replaced his finger. I felt it flick gently over me. "This can't end," he whispered. "So beautiful"
His mouth covered me with kisses. I don't think there was a place on my body he hadn't kissed. "My beautiful angel. I cried through the whole concert. I knew you were singing to me."
I brushed a tiny tear away, pushing him onto his back. I looked down on his body. My fingers tangled in the honey brown hairs on his chest. His hands were drawing me too him. I could feel his manhood against me. He had begun fondling my breasts again.
"Angie, I need you now." he was in a frenzy, but I wouldn't let him. My hands trailed down stopping to stroke him. I dipped my head down nibbling first at his thigh before moving over his manhood. I teased him with my tongue between nibbles, enjoying the frenzied moaning I was causing.
"Angie...." he pleaded. Now!
My mouth covered his in a passionate kiss. His hands quickly slipped down stroking me gently before slipping inside. My hips moved slowly against his hand. I felt the heat increase a thousand fold between my thighs. I felt another finger slip inside. I pressed even closer.
"God, Angie, how can I let you go," he rasped. "I love you." That's when the tears started. His lips kissed them away as quickly as they fell.
"Don't say anything, Greg." my voice was soft. "Just make love to me."
He pulled me to him. I felt him slip inside me. I drew in a deep breath as we rolled about the floor.
My hands gripped his firm buttocks, holding him closer and forcing him deeper. "No, I need you to know. I love you." his breathing was quick.
"I love you too." I whispered back, feeling the shudder of his release.
We laid tangled on the floor for what seemed like hours, just touching. Our hands would occasionally make slow lazy trips down each others bodies. "I'll never forget you, Angel" he was cradling me in his arms. " I don't want to leave you." His fingers stroked my nipples as his lips caressed my shoulder. "I want you."
We finally stood. We dressed each other. I lovingly tied his tie, pulling him to me for another kiss. He did the clasp on my bra, kissing my shoulder. He slowly buttoned my blouse. I stepped into my skirt.
We walked from the theater to his car. The Beemer had returned. "Tony said I could take you home."
The car CD player was on. Madonna's voice filter through. I smiled, knowing the extent of his feelings for me at that moment. I sang along to "Crazy for You" watching a smile spread across his face.
He led me up to my flat. He took my keys from me and let me in. I was expecting a hasty goodbye. I knew we couldn't go on. The pain of the deception would kill us both, but instead of leaving, he sat me down on the couch.
He dropped to his knees taking my hand, in it he placed a small black box. "I needed to find something for you. You gave me so much."
I opened it to see a dazzling diamond ring, with two rubies at either side of a perfect marquis cut stone. "It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen." I whispered.
He took it from the box. "It's inscribed" I read the inscription, feeling dizzy. It read, "Forever and always, Greg" He slipped the ring on my finger.
His arms tightened around me. "I wish I could stay with you." I could feel his tears on my face. We clung to each other for a few more moments, prolonging the agony of the last goodbye.
When the door finally closed I sat in silence. As the song goes played all my cards...and that's what he'd done too. I became oblivious to the world around me. It was a knock at the door that brought me out of my mini-coma.
chapter 6 Thief of hearts
I slowly rose to answer the door. A woman stood outside. I couldn't place her face. She was taller than I, but just about everyone was. I thought she might be a new neighbor, until she spoke.
"So you're Angie," her eyes pierced through me, and I stepped back. "You're not what I expected."
She gave a nervous laugh.
She looked around the apartment, then back at me. "Your very pretty. And you don't look at all like a whore." she stepped closer "Do you know who I am?"
I was scared silly. I only managed to stammer "Jennifer?" She nodded, she was still surveying her surroundings. "So you're his little singer."
I nodded, simply unable to do anything else, and frightened of confrontation. My voice was gone and any pluck I might've had went with it.
"You don't have to be scared of me. I'm not going to hurt you, though the thought did cross my mind a few times. Especially when I found the bill for your ring."
She took my hand and examined the ring. She smiled wistfully. "He never bought me anything like
that." she looked directly into my eyes. "But then again, I'm not you."
I was confused, and still speechless. She went on, "I've known about you since he came back home
this fall. I saw the article in the Sun. Someone sent me a copy."
"So why are you here?" I rasped. I was waiting for an attack that never came.
"Oh that's easy. I had to see you. He mentioned you quite a bit in passing. He spoke highly of your vocal abilities. I wanted to see your show, but it seems he only had one ticket, that you sent."
"I just wanted him to hear me sing." I muttered. She smiled at me.
"And he did. I think your voice was part of the attraction. He's always been attracted to the artsy type."
I started pacing. My nerves couldn't handle much more. "I hope it was more than just that, but then again, it was only 4 days."
"Don't try to rationalize it. I tried to. I wanted to know what I did wrong. It nearly drove me mad. I finally said to myself 'I have to meet her' So here I am."
I turned to Jen, "He's special, but you know that. You married him. You're the lucky one. He's staying with you."
"Angie, ..sit and let me talk to you." I did so obediently. "Tony used to talk about you. I'm looking forward to reading your concert reviews. He used to tell us about your days at the Raven and how he saw all your opening nights. That's how Greg sounded when he got home. Smitten, as much as it pains me to say it, you were more than a fling for my husband."
"All he did was talk about his friend Angie. You name was in almost every sentence he uttered. I Knew that there was more to this relationship than mere friendship, but I waited for him to tell me. He never did, so I went digging. That's when I got the article."
"That's when he left," I interrupted. "I don't think either of us could live with the hurt we were causing."
Again, Jennifer smiled. She wasn't a beautiful woman, but certainly attractive, in that cool elegant way. We found ourselves talking through the early hours of the morning, when the knock came again. This time it was Greg.
"Angie..." he peered over my shoulder. "Jen?" he paled.
She stood and crossed the room. Her arms slipped around his waist. "It's OK, dear." Her lips brushed over his. I flinched wishing I could spare myself this moment. "Angie and I were just talking and we lost track of time. Now why are You here?"
The word "busted" screamed in my mind. She squeezed his hand, "Greg, tell her you love her and let's go. You'll see each other again. Though perhaps not so intimately."
We both stood gaping at one another. Jen smiled.
Greg pulled me into his arms. I felt the comfort of his embrace. "I love you" he whispered softly. His lips brushed against my hair. We pulled away from each other reluctantly.
Jen looked back at me while she led Greg off, "Don't forget, Angie, the next time you perform, two tickets."
I stood in stunned silence watching them leave. So much for Amore and the fates. So much for Jen remaining faceless.
All I could think was, "I'm alone again...."
Epilogue Maybe I'm Amazed
A year has gone by and so much of my life has changed. Jen was right. I still saw Greg, very regularly. He's a good friend of my husband, and they worked on a film together. The film was Nightmare Before Christmas.
For awhile running into Greg was hard, but as I got to know Jen better, I became more at ease in their presence. It was Jen that introduced me to Danny, and it was Danny who got me into the studio to record my first album.
In little over a year, I've traded London's soggy streets for the bright lights of Hollywood. I gave up my flat for a house in the Hollywood Hills with 2 dogs and 2 stepdaughters. I've also gained a recording contract, a loving husband, (with gorgeous red hair and an evil ornery grin), and a starring role in his first musical.
As for Greg and I, we have lunch together every week. For some reason, Danny and Jen trust us alone together. I think we are closer now than ever. I find myself talking of my friend during concerts, but the song I dedicate to my friend is not Madonna. I reserve my rendition of Justify my Love for
Danny. It's an old Paul McCartney song that I sing for Greg, "Maybe I'm Amazed"
And I am....
"Maybe I'm amazed at the way I love you all the time...Maybe I'm amazed at the way I need you."
(Lyrics By Paul McCartney)
The End
|