A Special Treat for the Faithful Followers

CHAPTER ONE

~Missouri, Present Day~

     There was a very good reason why Kennedy Kale was moving into her grandparents' home.  Whether she was sure about this decision would be a question she would ask herself periodically.  She hadn't been back since grade school and preferred to keep it that way.  However, life happened which made her face the one place she blocked out the most.  It was only a matter of time before she faced those memories she so easily and quickly put away.  That first day would become a memorable day when she ventured to Three Hills.  Big time Los Angeles magazine journalist meets small town Missouri ranch.  And all because of a conversation, or so she thought.  What Kennedy didn't realize was that Someone greater was setting everything into motion for her.

     Bzzzzz bzzzzz bzzzz "I wanna rock 'n roll all night.  And party everyday" bzzzz bzzzzz bzzzz "I wanna rock 'n roll all night.  And party everyday" bzzzz bzzzzz bzzzz

     "Ugh! Stop calling me!"

     Bzzzz bzzzzz bzzzz "I wanna rock 'n roll all night.  And party everyday" bzzzz bzzzzz bzzzz

     "I have got to change that ring..."

     With arms carrying a stack of books and her view blocked, 30-year-old Kennedy Kale walked up to the dining room table full of boxes and cleaning supplies and stubbed her toe on the leg. She cringed and lost her balance as the books toppled out of her arms.

     "Son of a'!  Mmmmm!  For Pete's sake!" She picked up the phone in a hurry. "HELLO!?"

     "D?"

     "Oh, hey, Ceney!"

     "You all right, mate?  It sounds like you're ready to murda’."

     "I'm alright. Just adding more pain to my misery."

     Kennedy hobbled to the step stool behind her and began rubbing her foot.  Francine had been Kennedy's best friend since high school.  She moved to the States as a foreign exchange student from Australia and connected with Kennedy immediately. She was the owner of a bistro located in downtown Los Angeles.  After graduation, she and Kennedy found a flat they could both afford. But even after college and into their careers, the two girls never left the place they created as home.   Kennedy hated leaving Francine, but circumstance refused to let her stay. 

     Enjoying her cuppa at the breakfast table, Ceney called to check up on Kennedy.  "Oh, D!  I hate this!"

     "You're not alone," said Kennedy picking up the fallen books from the floor. "I'm just ready for this all to be over!"

     "It will, Sweetie.  One of these days." She walked to the coffee pot for a refill. 

     Kennedy leaned her head back against the wall in sadness.  She hadn't stopped since she arrived at Three Hills.  The drive there was the longest she had ventured in months.  It wasn't like her flights to clients' appointments across country; on the plane, she could preoccupy herself for a couple hours and not have to think about events and issues continually popping up in her life.  The drive, however, kept her captive by her thoughts that ceased to spare her from anxiety and frustration. 

     But now as she sat miles away from her best friend, she tried to forget all that followed her to the middle of the country.  Noticing the silence, Francine did her best to change the subject.  "So, uh, guess you found the place?" She poured herself another cup and walked to the balcony overlooking the market.

     "Yep, it's not what I remember at all," as she looked around the room.  It was clearly evident that no one had set foot in Three Hills for quite some time.  Sheets covered the living room furniture along with dust bunnies that made their home in the corners and upon the fireplace mantle.

     "Really?  Well, how's the area?"

     Kennedy hobbled to the window facing the long lane leading to the main road and opened the dusty curtain.  "Well, let's just say I won't be waking up to morning traffic, unless the cows get restless crossing the road to the next field."

     Francine gave a little smile. "Yikes!  At least you won't have people banging down your door for the latest spread in Hype Magazine."

     "To be honest, I would rather have a thousand editors' down my throat than a role in 'Little House on the Prairie'."

     "I know, D, I know." Francine said a bit more sympathetically.  She knew her best friend wasn't good at focusing on the positive when it seemed the world was crashing down around her.  But, without missing a beat, she was there for Kennedy as always. "So when can I plan for a visit?"

     Kennedy one-handedly took off the sheet covering the couch.  "Not sure.  Still trying to get myself put together." Her reply was followed by a series of sneezes caused from the flying dust in the humid air.

     Francine looked sympathetically at the balcony table. "Poor D!"

     "Yep, that's me," She sneezed once more. "Poor D!"

     "Sweetie, you know I didn't mean it like that."

     Kennedy tossed the sheet into a corner and made her way up the stairs.  "I know, Ceney.  Don't mind the bitter, lonely, aggravated, and torn up, single, 30-year-old voice on the other end of the line."

     Francine noticed her best friend's tone and asked with a bit more concern. "D, are you sure you don't need me there?"

     "Yeah, I'm sure."  Kennedy made her way up to the attic door and pushed on it.  She stumbled in as the jammed door gave way to her frustration. "This is something I have to do on my own."

     "Have you talked to the bloke yet?"  Francine knew this was a touchy subject for Kennedy.  However, Ceney was not one to keep her thoughts from D, no matter how much it'd hurt.  "Gotta be real, gotta be true or else how can we know each other, mate?"  Francine thought this way over everything.  It was better to be up front and honest than to waste time and energy in making someone feel good for a moment, then crashing them down the next.

     Actually, Kennedy expected her friend to ask.  Took her by surprise as to how long Francine actually waited to get to that point.  "No, I haven't," she replied through gritted teeth as she smashed a bug with her foot

     "Does he call?"

     "I wish he wouldn't."  She made her way to some old hat boxes on an old victrola table. "He told me he wouldn't, but that doesn't seem to mean anything here lately." Kennedy started rummaging through old boxes. "This was his stupid idea!  ‘Let's take a break' he said.  'Try new places' he said.  Easy for him to say since I was the one who had to leave." 

     She continued to go from box to box summarizing through sight all her grandparents had collected throughout their years at Three Hills. "Four years of back and forth!  I just..."   As she lifted the lid, her eyes came upon an old, leather-bound book filled with old material scraps, faded pictures, dried flowers that had been pressed through out the pages, and lots and lots of writing.  Without thinking, Kennedy stopped dead in her thoughts and words and became captivated by this new found query.

     "D, you there, mate?  ‘ello?  Kennedy?"

     Realizing she was still on the phone, Kennedy quickly responded to her best friend, "Hey, Ceney, can I call you later?"

     "Are you..." She was suddenly disconnected. "...alright?"  She looked sympathetically at the phone. "Righto." She walked back into the flat and began getting herself ready for the day.

     Kennedy, still intrigued by her new finding, propped herself up next to an old, Singer trundle sewing machine and opened the cover of the book slowly.  She read the script writing found on the front page.

     I will betroth you to me forever:  To my Lover, my Confidant, my Friend.  Because of you, I am.

     Kennedy turned the page to find three dried wildflowers pressed against the page with a short caption scripted underneath.  “The beauty from our walks,” she read out loud. "What is this?" She flipped it closed and turned it over, examining the cover, looking for some kind of title or inscription of identity. 

     "This thing is so old!"      

     Opening the journal to the next page, she discovered pages filled with script from a fountain pen. As she began reading, Kennedy was taken back to a time of beginnings, excitement, and most of all, music.

~Detroit, fall 1935~

     "It's hard to imagine that life could come from something so simple.  Who knew what one song would bring me?  All I wanted to do was sing my songs. And that's what I was doing the moment he walked into my life."

     Ellie Rayne had a passion for singing.  She had a voice that made the angels stand still.  Whether a bed time lullaby or a Sunday morning hymn, she gave the melody all her heart.  It was the fall of 1935 and the city was coming back from a fifteen year upset. The night club industry had just suffered from a little word called 'prohibition'.  The law had shut down the selling of alcohol with the intention of maintaining order and to crack down on the consumption of liquor.  Some stood in protest, while others closed their doors indefinitely.  But that time was to be no more!  Now, it was entertainment, dining, dancing, and drinking without the law looming over one's shoulder.

     There was, however, the weight of the Great Depression on the back of the businessman, the factory worker, the lowly, and the wealthy.   Everyone was doing their best to keep their heads up through this time of crisis.  Yet, it seemed to be that the one place that washed all their cares away was the place of entertainment and revelry; the life of the evening lounge.

     "He doesn't know how he makes me feel... Just by his look I know it's real... Every morning, evening, and noon... I wake up lying in my room... He gives me thoughts to pass the hours... He's... a man... for me"

     The melody danced through the smoke-filled air as delicate and beautiful as it had every night for the past week.  The scene was the same—regular patrons at their normal tables enjoying a cigarette, a drink, and a conversation.  The barkeep, Stanley Bett, was at his usual location keeping track of stock and the serving staff.  There was a steady flow of evening activity inside and out of Balestine's every night and into the wee hours of the morning.  One thing that hadn't been the same was the fellowship of Balestine's owner, 30-year-old Johnny Rocco, and his business rival and friend, Tommy Pete, owner of the Starlit Lounge.  Every night, Tommy and Johnny would sit at a single table towards the back and converse about current events, new business in the area, competition, and recent locals coming and going in the city.

     But, lately, Tommy's seat had been vacant every evening for the past two weeks.  Johnny didn't show much concern, seeing how Tommy was an important entrepreneur in the business.  He just kept doing his regular check with Stanley making sure the establishment was carrying on as usual.  This particular evening, as Johnny headed to the bar, he noticed his table occupied.  "Well, I'll be..." Stanley looked up at Johnny.  "Look who's found his way back". He nodded towards the table.

     "Yes Sir. He's been sitting there staring at Ms. Ellie ever since she stepped up on the stage." Stanley started prepping his boss' drink.

     "Really..." said Johnny, cautious of his friend.  Stanley looked up with a look of curiosity on his face.

     "Pay no mind, Stanley.  Just keep the drinks comin."

     "Yes, Mr. Rocco."  Stanley nodded to Jack at the end of the bar as Johnny made his way to his captivated patron.

     "What is it, Stan?"

     "Gotta keep the boss and company happy, Jackie boy." Stanley finished preparing Johnny's drink and began making Tommy's regular.  "It's gonna be a long night," Jack propped himself on the bar as he looked over at his newly assigned table.

     Johnny treated his people with honor and respect.  Actually, he had the same staff for years.  The exception, of course, had been Ellie Rayne.  Not only was her voice divine, but her appearance turned every eye her direction without her intentions.  She was simple, delicate, and naturally beautiful.  Johnny first saw her on the street outside Bal's.  She was gazing desperately into the window as the famous Lana James performed.  Knowing it was Ms. James' last performance, Johnny approached Ellie.  He had seen that look many a time in the eyes of young women yearning for the stage; but something about this one was different.  Not only was she a looker on the outside, but Ellie contained an inner beauty Johnny could not deny.

     "Hey there, Honey," he said, lighting up a cigarette.

     Ellie jumped with a start.

     "Didn't mean to scare you.  Just saw you looking inside and thought I'd come out to meet you."

     "Didn't think it a crime to watch 'er sing," replied Ellie with defensive caution.  "I'll be goin' now."

     Johnny reached out a quick hand to stop her.  "Hold on there, Doll.  No need to make tracks."

     "I'm not your doll. And I'm free to come and go as I please."  She pulled her arm back with a jerk and headed for the street.

     "You wanna sing or not!?"  Johnny called out her way to get her attention.

     "What's it to you?" she said over her shoulder.

     Arrogantly, he replied while puffing on his cigarette, "Oh, nothing.  Just that I'm the owner of Balestine's and tonight's Lana's last night."

     Ellie stopped in her tracks.  She paused for a moment then turned her head to Johnny.

     "Yah, that's right, Johnny Rocco"

     She turned her body to meet his.

     "Look, I like your spunk, and your looks 'll bring 'em in, that's for a fact.  Not sure about your voice, but I'd be a twit not to snag you.  They'll all be caught by your eyes and won't even notice the tune coming from your lips."  He took a final drag, flicked his cigarette into the street, and headed towards the entrance.  "If you want the job, it's yours. Lana's taking all her costumes, so come wearin something smooth."

     A second passed, then, "You didn't tell me what time." She stopped him with her answer. They looked at each other in agreement.  "You start tomorrow night at nine."  After a smile and a nod, they went their separate ways.

     Now, as Johnny headed for Tommy Pete, he had no doubt in his mind why his friend made a sudden reappearance.  "Hey, you old scoundrel!  Finally decide to give your patronage outside of Starlit?"

     "Who is that?"

     Johnny took his seat beside Tommy still stuck on his intrigue.  "Who?"

     "Her, on the stage"

     "Oh, that's Ellie Rayne.  She just started last week.  If you'd come around more often, you'd know these things."  Johnny snickered as Jack brought both men their drinks.  "Thanks, Jack."  The waiter nodded in assurance.

     "I'm a working man, you know that.  And when was the last time you graced Starlit Lounge with your presence?"

     "Well, my friend, as you can see, I've been pretty tied up myself."  He took a sip of his drink and pulled out a cigarette from his case.

     "How much is she worth to you?"

     "Who?" he lit his cigarette.

     "Ellie Rayne."

     Knowing what his friend was implying, Johnny played him for a tad bit longer.  "Why you wanna know?"  He took a drink from his glass.

     "How much, Johnny!?"  Finally, Tommy had taken his eyes off his prey and stared straight and hard at his rival for the moment.

     "How much, Tommy?"  It had been a long time since Tommy Pete had been this desperate for something Johnny Rocco owned.

     "Two cases and a waiter," He lit a cigarette and stared back at Ellie.

     "Why so interested, my friend?" Johnny was having too much fun.

     Tommy took a long drag.  "I've just got to have her, Johnny!"

     "Well, this is something.  The untouchable Tommy Pete has, do I dare say, met his match?"

     "So?" said Tommy irritated. His pride was finally coming back in to play Johnny's little game.

     "Yes, I do believe he has," He took a drink and smiled confidently.

     Tommy slammed his hand down hard on the table causing his drink to slosh.  "Quit jerkin with me, Johnny!"

     "Look, Tommy, no sense in blowing your top.  I happen to be quite fond of Ellie.  Look around! I haven't had it this good since Lana first belted a note on my stage.  I know she was a canary, but the dame started loosing it there towards the end."

     Tommy rolled his eyes, put out his cigarette, and turned his focus back to the stage.

     "I like Ellie, Mr. Pete.  I can't help it that she came to my window instead of yours.  She's a great asset to Bal's."  Jack approached the table with two more fresh drinks.  "Thank you, Jackie."

     "Yes Sir, Mr. Rocco."  He paused for a moment, then left the two sitting in silence. 

     Tommy knocked out the old drink, lit a new smoke, and stared deep at Johnny.  The old friend knew Tommy was gonna get her one way or another.  Johnny figured it'd be best to get something out of him while he still had the chance.  "Alright, buddy," Johnny sat for a moment, still enjoying what little control he had over his friend.  "I'll give you what you want on one condition," Tommy looked at him in jest.  "Whenever you're done with her, send her back on home to Bal's and not out the back of yours."

     Tommy wanted to punch his friend in the face, but restrained himself in fear of losing his prize.  "What do you want, Rocco?"

     "Three cases and a singer"

     Tommy put out his hand to seal the deal.  "Done!"

     Johnny met Tommy's hand hesitantly.  "Done."

     Tommy turned his attention back to Ellie.  "Send her over here after her number."

     Johnny looked at him and shook his head.  He could feel himself becoming a little disgusted.  "You don't waist anytime, do you?"

     "Not when it's something I want, old friend."

     "Tommy Pete, you never cease to surprise me." He took a drink from his fresh glass.

     "I do try." He smiled as he put his cigarette to his lips and took a drag.

     Johnny got up and patted Tommy on the shoulder. As Ellie finished her song set, she took a bow, and headed off the stage. He walked over to her.  "Hi ya, Honey! Great job with those first numbers!  The crowd is getting bigger and bigger every night!"

     "I'm just doing what I know to do, Mr. Rocco.  They recognize good service when they see it."  She smiled as Jack handed her a club soda.  Johnny looked at her with a bit of sadness but caught himself before she could notice.

     "Look, Honey, I've got somebody at my table I want you to meet.  He's an old friend that's been out of the loop for a couple a weeks.  He wanted to talk to you for a bit."

     "Oh, okay.  I'm going back on in ten.  Paul's playing in between the sets tonight.  Didn't think it was a bad idea.  Plus, it gives him a little solo stage time."

     Johnny looked at her in wonder. She tilted her head in curiosity. 

     "What is it?"

     "Aw, Ellie, you are my greatest find!"

     "Thanks, Mr. Rocco," She smiled at him with those great big green eyes he had begun to respect.

     "Honey, after all you've done for me, you've earned the right to call me Johnny."  They smiled at each other and parted ways—Ellie to the table, Johnny to the bar.  He watched her closely as she made her way to what he knew would change her life.  But, he hoped, it wouldn't change her soul.  Tommy stood as Ellie approached him.

     "Good evening, Ms. Rayne" He pulled out her chair for her to sit.  "I see you've got yourself a drink," he looked at Jack who was standing ready for whatever was needed.  "How 'bout we get Ms. Rayne a fresh one, huh, Jack?"  He nodded and headed for the bar.  "I enjoyed your performance, Ms Rayne."  Tommy Pete was like a kid in a candy store.  He hadn't been this intrigued by anything, or anyone, for that matter.  Not only did he get what he wanted, but she was beautiful as well.

     "Please, call me Ellie"

     "And I'm Tommy. Tommy Pete."

     Ellie couldn't believe her ears.  Here she was sitting across from the youngest, snazziest, most successful lounge owner within a thousand mile radius!  This was the one man she had wanted to meet since moving to Detroit.  And, now, here he wanted to meet her.  Disguising her true feelings, Ellie was courteous with caution.  Besides, Johnny had sent her over and she wouldn't be the one to tarnish his name.

     "Tommy Pete, owner of Starlit Lounge?"  He jumped inside at the knowledge of her knowing who he was.

     "Yes, mam, that would be me.  Do you know the place?"

     "I used to pass it every day in hopes of being on the stage."  She did her best to keep her emotions in check.

     "Is that so?"

     "Mmmhmm..." Ellie took a drink from her glass. 

     Easy, Ellie.  Don't give him everything in one shot.

     "But once Mr. Rocco...well, Johnny, caught me outside and gave me the opportunity here at Bal's, I haven't been by there since.  Oh, thanks Jack."   She said as he set down a new glass in front of her.  He nodded and looked at Tommy who waved him on his way.  Tommy pulled out his cigarette case and offered one to Ellie.  "Oh, no I'm not a fan.  But thanks for the offer."  Tommy just smiled.

     "Would you mind if I...?"

     She shook her head in reply and grabbed her recently served soda.  After a drink, she set her glass down and wiped the top of her lip with her finger delicately.  He couldn't take his eyes off of her.  "With all this smoke in here, I couldn't tell a difference."  Tommy proceeded to satisfy his craving. 

     After lighting it, he leaned up to Ellie.  "So tell me, Ellie Rayne, why have you not come back to the Starlit Lounge?"

     "Why would a stray dog leave a loving home that has taken him in for a meat shop that wouldn't even throw him scraps to eat?"  As the words left her mouth, Ellie's eyes dropped to the table in embarrassment.  There was a moment of silence as Tommy puffed on his cigarette.  With her head down, Ellie tried to make right, "I'm sorry, Mr. Pete.  My mouth always runs away with me.  I mean no disrespect."

     "Johnny told me about your spunk." He took his glass and sat back. "It's one of the reasons why I wanted to meet you."

     "It still ain't no excuse, Sir, and I'm sorry."

     Tommy leaned over and picked up her chin with his hand.  "Hey, don't worry about it.  It's our little secret," He gave her a wink.  She gave a slight smile and looked down at the table.  "Thank you for the drink."

     "Thank you for the song." 

     Ellie looked up at Tommy who was more daring with his eyes.  She was finding it more and more difficult to keep up her defenses.  But for some reason, she felt guilty sitting there talking with that man she hardly knew who was obviously interested in her.  He wasn't anything like Johnny. 

     How can these two be friends?

     "So you enjoy singing?"  Tommy startled her thoughts.

     "I'm sorry?"

     Tommy leaned in closer.  "Your singing; Do you enjoy it?"

     "Yes.  I do."  She could see he wanted more to that answer.  A battle began to build inside.

     Just keep it professional.  TOMMY PETE!!  Stay calm.  OWNER OF STARLIT!! Take it easy.  MAYBE HE WANTS ME TO SING!! You've got a great job here with Johnny.  Johnny... His words echoed in her mind. ‘Ellie you are my greatest find.’ Just stop it!

     "Ellie," Tommy touched her arm.  "Are you okay?"  She jumped at his flirtation.

     "Huh?  Oh, I'm very sorry.  I don't know what's wrong with me.  I ain't like this all the time." She shifted herself nervously.

     Tommy gave her a small smile and chuckled lightly.

     She looked up at Tommy.  "You probably think I'm nuts."  She grabbed her glass and took a big swallow.  Not only was she embarrassed of her actions, but every time Ellie got nervous, mad, or agitated, she would fall back into her natural southern accent she acquired while growing up in Mississippi.  Tommy leaned forward and placed his chin in his hand.

     "No, Ellie Rayne, I think you're wonderful."

     Ellie looked down at her drink, trying to keep her voice from shaking.  "But you don't know me from Adam." 

     This can't be happening!  Why me!  Get yourself out now!

     Tommy rubbed her hand.  "That makes it more exciting."

     It took all Ellie had to not jump out of her seat.  Her body language, however, made it quite clear Tommy Pete had crossed the line.  "I should be getting back.  Paul's almost done with his singin."  She started to get up from her seat.  As she did, Tommy reached toward her in fear of losing his prize.

     "Ellie, I'm sorry.  I didn't mean to upset you."

     "You didn't, Mr. Pete.  It's just that Johnny don't pay me to sit and chat. He pays me to sing my songs."  She started looking around the bar in hopes of catching Johnny's eye. 

     Where IS he!?

     Tommy stood to meet her in an effort to make amends.  "Johnny's a good friend and I know he'll make an exception.  Besides, there's something I wanted to ask you."

     Still looking around, Ellie did her best to end the excitement turned sour.  "I really must get back to the stage, Mr. Pete." 

     Where IS that man?!  JOHNNY!?

     From the bar, Johnny Rocco had been keeping a constant eye on his table without bringing attention to himself.  A patron sitting at the bar had struck up a conversation over the recent activities of prohibition.  He had said he was extremely surprised at how well Johnny had been making out.  Johnny did his best to make the patron feel welcome.  As he turned his head, he saw Ellie standing up in a quick-like motion looking around with worry on her face. 

     What the'? 

     He bought the patron a round and excused himself quickly.  Though it was just a few feet away, between waiters' questions and patrons' hellos, it took Johnny a couple of minutes to reach his greatest find.

     Tommy was trying to do his best at making Ellie feel less uncomfortable and more wanting of him.  He had to make her his!  There was no doubt!  "Come sing for me at the Starlit Lounge."

     Ellie stopped resisting and placed full attention on Tommy Pete's face.  "Excuse me?"

     "Ellie, I want you to come sing for me at the Starlit Lounge permanently."

     Ellie looked to the side for a moment in shock.  She paused and then found herself to be weak in the knees.  As she fell gracefully into her chair, Tommy held her hand in guidance.  "Ellie?"

     It took her a moment to realize what she had just been offered.

     THIS IS IT!!!  THIS IS WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN WANTING!!!  TAKE IT, GIRL, AND DON'T LOOK BACK!  JOHNNY'S PLACE HARDLY COMPARES TO THE LUXURY OF THE STARLIT!! Johnny!  What is he gonna say?  Does he already know?!  Oh, why does it have to be me!!!

     "Ellie, I didn't mean to upset you."

     Coming back to reality, Ellie replied, "Huh?  Oh, um...wow! Are you sure?"

     "I wouldn't have offered if I wasn't," Tommy turned on the charm as fast as he had fallen for this beauty.

     Ellie still sat in a bit of shock. But after looking up and seeing Tommy's tempting eyes, she became more aware of herself and her situation.  "Mr. Pete, I have a very nice job right here at Bal's singin for Johnny."

     "Believe me, he won't be without."  Ellie began looking around once more.

     Tommy touched her arm.  "Look, Johnny will be fine, And I'm gonna give you a little bonus for short notice. Ellie, this will be the best thing that's ever happened to you.  Just trust me, say yes, and show up at the Starlit Lounge tomorrow night."

     TOMORROW! Tomorrow?

     "Tomorrow?!"  Ellie couldn't hold it back any longer."But...are you sure?"

     What about Johnny?  WHY ARE YOU WORRIED SO MUCH ABOUT JOHNNY ROCCO?  TAKE THIS CHANCE WITH TOMMY PETE!

     Feeling satisfied, Tommy coated the rest of the conversation as sweet as icing.  "Come by the lounge around 5 o'clock." He picked up his drink with a smile and gazed upon Ellie.

     "What?  What are you smiling at?"

     "I'm just seeing what great things will come from this conversation."

     "You seem so confident."

     "I am."   Tommy lit up another cigarette.  Ellie was a bit taken a back by Tommy's arrogance.  However, that certain part of her seemed to be running away at full speed for whatever was to happen.

IT’S TOMMY PETE!!!! WHAT COULD GO WRONG WITH HIM!!!????  JUST SMILE AND HAVE FUN!!!

     Johnny had finally made his way to the table.  He could sense that Tommy Pete had once again overcome his prey.  It almost made Johnny sick at the way Tommy went as he pleased doing what brought him pleasure without the courtesy of those in his path.  He knew he couldn't do anything at this moment; he had lost.  Sure, he got liquor and a new act; but Johnny Rocco knew one of these days he would show his friend how he truly felt about the raucous he left in everyone else's lives.  For now, he would simply play the game.

     "Okay, Tommy.  I know she's yours tomorrow, but I'm still paying her tonight."  Johnny walked up behind Ellie, trying to be as carefree as possible.  He had a great concern for the way Ellie was acting, but now was not the time to deal with what he had no control over.

     "Yes, she is mine tomorrow," It was as if Johnny was never there.

     "Okay, Ellie, thank you for joining me this evening." He stood and reached for her delicate hand.

     Trying to maintain professionalism and respect for Johnny's friend, she gave him her hand.

     "Thank you for the drink and for the conversation, Mr. Pete"

     "My pleasure; and I told you, it's Tommy."

     Ellie politely smiled, "It's just not natural for me, but I will do my best to be so casual with you... Tommy."

     "Well then, I look forward to the rest of tonight's performance."

     "Yes, I should be getting back.  Paul's played that number already." She looked at Johnny.

     "I think the crowd's getting restless, Boss.”  She smiled at him once more with those unmistakable eyes.  Johnny knew it best not to respond so freely to her gesture of comment.  He quickly nodded to Tommy and began to escort Ellie back to the stage.

     "Thanks, Tommy.  I'll be back for another round."

     "I'm not going anywhere," All his attention had focused on Ellie.

     Knowing he didn't have long, Johnny did what he could to comfort Ellie as best he could without suspicion or suspect.  "Hey, Honey, you okay?  You look a bit flushed."

     "Ya, Boss, I'm okay.  Just wasn't expecting what I got."  She thought for a moment then turned to face Johnny.  "Hey, did you know he was gonna ask for me to sing at the Starlit?" 

     Johnny had regretted giving in to his bully friend.  But he knew he wouldn't have won either way.  He almost felt guilty for making a trade on Ellie's behalf.  He had to make it right.  He had to let her know what he felt.  "I didn't know he was coming here to take you away from me.  He heard you singing and wouldn't take no for an answer."

     "But what about tomorrow night?"

     "Don't you worry about that now, Honey.  I got 'em waiting in the wings.  Who knows, I may have one waiting outside right now lookin in on you."

     With a bit of jest yet seriousness, Ellie gazed up at Johnny, "Am I that easy to replace?" 

     Johnny didn't know what to do.  He had never been taken by someone so beautiful, so sincere, so real.  Knowing Tommy was watching, he made it as casual as possible.  "I told you, Ellie, you are my greatest find.  And I will never find another like you."  He was lost in her eyes.  "Now go on, Honey, and sing to me just one more night." 

     Ellie looked at him with a yearning to understand his true feelings.  She knew it was time to go; however, something strong was keeping her there, with him, with Johnny.

     What is it?  What's happening?  Johnny Rocco?  Is it possible?  He doesn't look at me with lust, but with eyes of something else.  But I can't let Tommy Pete see.  What would that mean for Johnny?  His best friend!  Come on girl, pull it together.  Just do what you do best.  Just sing!

     "Thank you...Johnny."

     "For what, Ellie?"  He had to pull himself away but it was as if something more powerful than his will held him there.

     "For treating me as a lady and not as a prize."

     I could never treat you as a prize.  You are so much more! 

     "You are a lady...Ellie Rayne." They were together, alone, just the two of them, for that split second.  "Now, go on, Honey.  Make 'em hungry for more." She stared up at him for one last moment.  She could feel another's eyes upon every move she made.

     I've got to be careful.

     "Be here when I'm done, Boss?"

     "I'll be sure you won't be bothered for the rest of the evening." 

     That promise he could make happen for her.  She smiled and headed back stage.  Johnny headed to the bar for one more check with Stanley before joining his friend for a long evening of meaningless chatter that no longer became a concern for Johnny.  All he wanted to do was to sit and listen to this one woman who had done something much more to him than bring in the crowds and the revenue with them.  And he knew it was up to him to protect her from the days to come.  He had known Tommy Pete long enough to recognize his cravings when he saw them.  Johnny was not going to let that happen to Ellie Rayne, no matter what it cost.

~Missouri, Present Day~

     As Kennedy sat spellbound by her new discovery, a chainsaw was abruptly started causing her to drop the journal on the attic floor.  "Calm down, Kennedy."  She opened the attic window to see the source, but was unsuccessful in her findings.  She hurriedly moved down the steps and demandingly charged out onto the porch.  "Who in the...?"

Copyright 2012 Laurie K Guidry

Beautiful Disaster:Book One:Three Hills Saga