Never had Terri been to such a gala event, even since the KISS Farewell tour wrap up. All manner of celebrities exited their limos, walking along the red carpet lined with the bank of reporters. So many flashes exploded at once it was like being caught in a thunderstorm, the shutters clicking and shouting questions rolling around them into a roar.

"Is this how it usually is?" Terri shouted to Gene over the bevy of questions. They strode in the line of others, filing into the large assembly hall where the Oscars would be held. She struggled to keep pace with his long legged stride, glad she was now accustomed to walking in the four inch stiletto heels she wore so much now.

"Sometimes it's a lot more exciting," Gene whispered to her, slipping his arm around her waist to steady her. Security let them pass without a question, and Terri saw Gene slip off his sunglasses and put them into the pocket of his suit jacket.

"Oh boy, why am I not surprised!!!" she laughed, and they were pushed with the pillar of gowned and tuxedoed celebrities. Gene wasn't wearing a tux, Terri noticed, which didn't exactly put him in the minority. Yet, he was stunning in the black silk shirt, tie, and black suit he sported. Terri's own gown was a strapless satin number, in dark burgundy, with a black velvet cape draped around her bare shoulders. A pearl and gold choker encased her shapely neck, with matching pearl earrings and the ring and bracelet he had given her a time ago.

"Mr. Simmons, what is your next project now that KISS has been put onto the back burner?" came a voice that made Terri jump.

"Is it true you've turned all your attention to directing a major motion picture in the near future?" another asked, waving a tape player under Gene's nose. He patiently answered these and other questions thrown his way. As he retreated with his hand in Terri's,

Gene almost crashed into a tall woman with dark flowing hair, and did a double take. Terri could swear she recognized her when she saw the chiseled nose and other distinctive features.

"Well what have we got here? You're a blast from the past," came the low laugh. Someone leaned over and gave Gene a kiss on the cheek.

"Uh, hello Cher… how are you doing?" Gene asked, voice even.

"Is that your girlfriend? Nice to meet you, Hon," Cher smiled as she took in Terri.

"This is Terri, Terri Mason…" Gene said. "And I think you know who this lovely lady is…"

"Only one of my best memories from growing up," Terri smiled.

"She's a sweetheart. You two look great together," Cher smiled, leaning on Gene a little. Terri moved over and slipped her arm tightly around Gene's waist, as if staking her claim. Inside she felt like she wanted to say, "Keep you mitts off my man…"

"Uh… thank you I think," Terri responded when Cher squeezed her shoulder and strode into the crowd. Terri shook her head, and Gene burst out laughing.

"A little starstruck?" he teased her.

"Well… she is nice," Terri said slowly. "But didn't you uh… well break up with her? I mean I kind of expected her to be po'd or something…"

"That was years ago, she's over it and so am I… Let's find Calen and Billy," he laughed, taking her by the hand and leading her in. Cameras whirred and clicked, recording the strange scene before moving onto the next. And what a scene it was.

Shortly after them, another couple fought their way past reporters to enter the main lobby. Billy and Calen clung to each other and burst through the doors in a mad rush. For a moment a few fans held out posters with excitement, saying things like, "Way to go Calen!!! We love you!"

"Thanks for your love and support," she grinned, signing a few glossies stuck in her direction. Billy found a mike shoved under his nose and ten reporters asking him the same questions at once.

They looked at each other and laughed as they brushed off their respective outfits. Calen's pale, blue dress shimmered slightly, coming to her ankles, and was accentuated by the blue wrap around her shoulders and neck. Billy's tuxedo contoured his body like a second skin, the cummerbund and tie well within the family of blues of Calen's ensemble. The sapphire pendant she wore was classic and had belonged to her grandmother at one time, with four small diamond around it in silver filigree.

"Oh there you are darling, marvelous to see you, you look radiant dear!" Joan Rivers suddenly exclaimed, nearly bumping into Calen with excitement.

"Nice to be back," Calen laughed.

"I'll say. What a comeback from that accident. They're talking all about your movie… I think you've done a winner!"

"We'll see," Calen laughed. "I'm just glad I was able to make it…"

Another chorus of clicks erupted, and both swung to smile for the cameras. Billy chuckled as he struggled to sign a few posters thrust into his face by fans who had paid a high price for the Oscars to stargaze.

Meanwhile Gene and Terri moved around the huge throng, crammed toe to shoulder in the large foyer. Gene had his arm around Terri protectively, talking to a dozen others at once. "Smile," he whispered to her as she saw yet another camera trained on them. She struck a dramatic pose, to be funny, then flipped her hair as she leaned sexily against Gene.

He was close to laughing deeply when she continued her little set of poses. Finally they turned away, fixing their attention on Angelina Jolie, who waved and smiled at Gene.

"Hey Angie!" he shouted. "Nice set of moves, Lara Croft!"

"That's not all you've seen!" she called back. "Love your girlfriend. You're a cute couple! Hang onto him sweetie! He's a treasure!"

"Why am I not surprised you know Angelina Jolie?" Terri chuckled. She leaned up and pressed a kiss to Gene's cheek, and he took a moment to lean down and pull her lips to his for a quick but passionate kiss. Out of the corner of her eye she saw another flashbulb go off, and felt Gene lift her off her feet for a moment.

"There they are!" Terri pointed as she shook Gene's arm.

"Where?"

"Right there Gene!" she said.

"Duh on me," Gene joked, taking one of Terri's favorite expressions. It sounded comical coming from him, and made her skin tingle all over. They moved up to greet their friends, exchanging greetings and smiles in a flurry of handshakes and kisses to cheeks.

"Let's go get our seats," Calen said. "Can't wait to see what this clambake's gonna cause…"

"I know Forever Sterling's certainly a good run for the money," Billy nodded as they filed in to take their seats. The huge arena took Terri's breath away, and she shook her head with an audible gasp.

"Damn," she muttered. Gene squeezed her hand sympathetically.

"It always blows you away the first time," he whispered in her ear, leading her to take the seat next to his. They settled in, and Calen climbed over Gene teasingly as she settled on his other side, with Billy beside her on her left.

"I don't expect it to win anything much, but since it took the golden globe for directing," Gene leaned over to Calen.

"And best screenplay…" Calen said, nudging Terri across Gene's lap.

"Ssh, it's starting," Gene urged their silence as the music ground up. Applause drowned their next few words, and Terri felt the adrenaline rush rise in her chest.

It was not like seeing it on television, she reflected though the hours of nominations, music gala events, and other distractions. More then once she had to excuse herself to get up and go to the bathroom. On her second trip she just need a breath of fresh air. Billy Austin offered to accompany Terri so Gene and Calen could listen for the slew of next nominees.

"So, do you think that you'll get an award for best screenplay?" Billy asked. She thought he was joking, but the face he showed was serious.

"That would be silly," she said. "Just getting that golden globe nomination blew me away…"

"Yes I'm sure it would," Billy grinned. "I remember it took you a LONG time to calm down and get it together..."

"How have you been?" Terri asked. Billy saw the look in her dark brown eyes that told him there was an ulterior motive for asking such a question. She was like Gene in so many ways, slick and on the ball each moment that kept him on his toes.

"Well I've been fine. Awesome in fact. Like I heard Gene mention about you… when I asked him the same question…" Billy smiled, dark eyes sparkling.

"In the men's room right?" she joked.

"You're too slick for me, lady," Billy grinned. "Let's get back to our significant others before they scold us for missing the action!"

"You aren't really...are you with Calen?" Terri asked.

"We just love to drive the tabloids NUTS," Billy Zane smiled.

Terri took a moment to admire the fine lines of his tuxedo gliding over his marvelous thighs. While not her type, he was still a handsome man. She wasn't into the tall, blue eyed bald sort, but he was sexy. She had to admit that some martial arts movies were a bit cheesy, but Invincible was worthy of praise with its compelling script. Os had been a sensitive yet dangerous combination, and Terri was pleased to discover the real life Billy Zane was a sweetheart. They were becoming good friends through her friendship with Calen.

"Billy," she asked, taking his arm as they approached the seat. "Do you ever wonder…"

"Wonder what?" he asked her. She indeed looked nice in that burgundy gown, her size 20 body conforming well to the clingy fabric. Not like those tall slender beanpoles packed with cellulite, he saw in Hollywood so much now. Gene bragged Terri was all natural and homegrown curves that he loved to hug.

"Oh… nothing," she waved a dismissive hand. They just made it back to sit down when the next category was being red.

"Where did you two get to?" Calen joked as Billy climbed over her and settled down.

"We thought you'd fallen in," Gene joked to Terri, who dug him in the ribs playfully.

"Wondering if they had anything to drink…" she needled back.

Playfully he tapped her cheek, and they listened to the nominees for best actress. Calen and Billy clutched hands as each name was called. Their eyes fixed on the film clips flickering across the screen.

"And the winner is…" the hostess said, fumbling with the envelope. Gene settled back in his seat comfortably to wait for the answer.

"Calen McGregor, for Forever Sterling…"

"Holy..." Terri got out before Calen sat there with a dumbstruck look on her face.

"Well don't just stand there, go up and get that sucker!" Gene leaned over and urged her. She nearly stumbled over Gene trying to get up to move into the aisle.

Terri and Gene watched her make the long trek up the aisle, and mount the stage. Forests of hands clapped in unison when she took the Oscar in hand, and moved behind the podium.

"Umm, I am so taken back by all this; I didn't even have anything prepared, so excuse me if I fly by the seat of my pants here," she stammered at first. For a moment, she seemed too choked to speak moistness in those hazel eyes that were glowing with accomplishment.

Finally she regained her composure to continue, "Uh, there are so many people to thank; I don't even know where to begin. First of all, I would like to thank the academy. I know that I should also thank a special man, who took the time to give me an audition for a little known television show, Gene Roddenberry. I know if it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be here today. Of course, all my co-stars on The Next Generation, they have always been so supportive of me through all the years."

Terri saw Jonathan Frakes sitting further down their row, a smile creeping over that bearded face with those blue eyes that twinkled. Next to him sat Gates McFadden, her red hair shining like strands of delicate copper. Across her china doll featured face Terri glimpsed a smile forming as well.

"All my friends and family for their wonderful encouragement… Mom, Dad, I love you all very much. The doctors, nurses, and therapists that helped me through my recovery, you guys are all special…."

Somewhere else Terri guessed the doctors and nurses must be watching from the comfort of their homes, waiting to see if their patient would win or not. Even so they must be glued to their televisions by now. Her mother was perhaps at work, or somewhere at home watching from Alabama, and beaming with pride at her daughter who had come so far. Much farther then she had ever thought possible.

"I also would like to acknowledge the people of Sterling in Scotland for making myself and the others working on the movie feel so welcome. Two special people, Gene Simmons the producer of the movie, and Terri Mason, who wrote the screenplay… you guys are so wonderful, thanks for giving me so much love and support."

Terri felt Gene's hand clasp around hers and squeeze tightly. Tears stung Terri's eyes when she felt the wave of happiness jump from Gene to her. It was so tangible she could feast on it herself down her choked throat.

"Finally, thanks to a very special man. Billy Zane…. Thank you very much for your moral support and kind words on my recovery and your close personal friendship cheering me on these past months...."

Billy's eyes shone at that moment in a way that Terri swore was nothing but love. As she turned her head slightly she saw Gene gazing at her with the same look. Her heart leapt, and she focussed her attention to Calen once more. This was Calen's moment, Calen's time, and they had all been part of it in some way. Any thoughts of jealousy faded away from Terri's heart at her moment of triumph. She couldn't be happier for her friend at that moment in time.

Gene managed to get off the plane and into his limo with a few minutes to spare. It was four or five months into Terri's pregnancy and he missed her terribly. Ever since she had started going around to the major SF conventions, he had tried to busy himself with the production schedule.

Now in NYC, he was slated to get on the Conan O' Brian show, and the Carson Daily show to promote KISS and Makeup, his new biography. It was selling like proverbial hotcakes, and the box set was an equally huge smash. The booksigning at Tower Records would be a chance for him to meet up with Paul, in the throws of Phantom of the Opera and touch base.

His cab pulled up to the Hyatt Regency, and Gene quickly exited the limo. Paul was supposed to meet him for a lunch date before going back to his rehearsal for Phantom that evening. The valet immediately grabbed Gene's luggage, and slipped it onto one of the large gold framed carts.

Steve walked at a distance from Gene, getting out of the front of the limousine, and making sure Gene had everything he needed. The schedule would be tight the next few days, followed by a relaxing weekend of visiting Gene's mom and other personal friends in NYC in addition to Paul.

Not to mention a close personal friend that Gene knew would be in NYC for the signing of the book Forever Sterling. Calen was joining Melissa Smith, the young author of the novel in a booksigning at Borders, and answer questions about the impending DVD release. Also he had heard something about her being at a local Trek convention somewhere in the city.

Arriving at the desk, Steve helped Gene get checked in, while Gene wandered into the hotel's posh restaurant. He scoped out a table, asking the mater D if there were any reservations.

"I'm sorry sir, there is no party under Eisen..."

"Uh... well... that's unusual..."

Just then he noticed several people clustering around a table in the rear of the place. By the look of the colorful space t shirts and wool uniforms of some, he realized they were Trek fans. Noticing Gene's amusement, the Mater D said, "Oh... I had forgotten to tell you about the large Trek convention this weekend... some of the guests are staying here..."

Gene grinned and strode over to the core of people who were sitting and talking to the vivacious blond. Glancing up she noticed Gene, and smiled, hazel eyes meeting his light brown ones.

"Your reputation proceeds you," he joked.

"Just a few fans here and there," she laughed, signing the last autograph before a few waiters urged the eager fans on their way so Calen could eat in peace with her friends.

"Mind if I join you? I was supposed to meet Stanley here, but he's stood me up..."

"Go ahead, it's always great to see you," she smiled, leaning up to give Gene an embrace and kiss on the cheek. A hint of her perfume lingered in his nostrils, and Gene sighed deeply. Smell triggered recent memories, locked away in a secret recess, and he found his body tingling with remembrance.

"I thought you were here for just a book signing," he said back, sitting down and accepting the menu from the waiter. "What's this about a trek convention?"

"Something I do every year. The con's being held in this hotel, as a matter of fact," Calen smiled, sipping her tall glass of iced tea. Gene ordered hot coffee for himself, with no sugar or cream, and pondered the hotel's lunch menu. Still he kept eye contact with Calen, enjoying the mental stimulation of the energy that crackled betwixt them.

"And you," she said, nudging him. "How about your little book?"

"My little book's doing QUITE well," he teased back. "I go there tonight at six to sign, and hopefully STANLEY will be there on time to help divvy up the signing duties on the box sets..."

"I heard Stanley has a new girlfriend," Calen mentioned. "You told me about her a few times... she's a CHEMIST too just like Terri?"

"Yeah... go figure," gene laughed.

"Do I sense a pattern here," Calen teased.

"Ya think?" Gene chuckled back. "Son of a bitch if it wasn't Terri all over again. But I think this one's actually working..."

"Well fortunately Paul had the good sense to be flexible you said. Doing Phantom... but what about his hip..."

"I've been nagging him to get it looked at. But he insists that it's fine so far. He's damn stubborn..."

"Like someone ELSE we know?" Calen raised an eyebrow, sipping her tea.

"Ha ha," Gene said, tossing a packet of sugar at her playfully. "But seriously, I told him he'd better do something about by the time we get back on tour... and if Trynia..."

"Trynia, that's a unique name," Calen said.

"Paul says it's a name she came up with cause her full name was a tongue twister. One of those composite catholic names, he says. Girl's Irish/Italian bless her heart, and Paul's NUTS about her... do you know he stopped the groupie banging finally when I about told him to knock it off he was moping so much?"

"Seems to have done him a world of good," Calen nodded.

"Uh, reminds me, how are you and Steve..."

"We're still good friends, remember," Calen reminded him. "In fact he called me up to tell me he's engaged to that woman he'd been dating..."

"That's good," Gene nodded. "Look like there will be wedding bells in his future?"

"Well it just wasn't working out with the two of us," Calen nodded, tracing a finger around the edge of her ice tea glass. "And all that travel on the road left us hardly any time together... it's for the best..."

"Yeah, but I know that look well enough Angel, to know you miss him," Gene said, laying a hand on Calen's and giving it a gentle squeeze. "sucks, huh?"

"I've got so much going on that it's just as well. I mean god knows I miss him, but I think him and her are very good together. He's NUTS about her, and well... after what we talked about..."

"You told him... about us... didn't you?" Gene said.

"Yes," Calen nodded soberly. "You remember, after the Oscars I just came right out with it."

"I know he wasn't one hundred percent nuts about it," Gene sighed. "But you said that wasn't the reason that you and he..."

"It was the final straw that made us realize we weren't ready for a serious commitment," Calen finished. "And I think it's good that it happened. Because..."

"Yeah," Gene nodded, gripping her hand. "But I don't regret it..."

"Nor do I,' Calen nodded. "Not for one moment..."

"Hey Gene, you jerk, what's this about standing me up?" broke in Paul's voice, interrupting the tense moment. Snapping their heads up they saw Paul Stanley standing there, in a fresh crisp white shirt, black blazer and bluejeans, his hair slicked back.

"Paul, your timing SUCKS ass," Gene grumbled.

"Calen how are you baby?" Paul asked, leaning over to kiss Calen on the cheek. She grinned and pecked him back, giving him a hug.

"Great! So I guess you guys got your wires crossed... again?"

"Gene, didn't you know we had a reservation?" Paul rested a hand on his hip.

"Funny, I was thinking the same thing..."

"It was under Merino," Paul said. "Didn't I tell you?"

"Merino, you dumb ass, how was I supposed to know, damn," Gene groaned. "Well since you did that brilliant cryptic move, I decided to join Ms. McGregor for lunch, so how's that?"

"You and your girlfriend are welcome to join me," Calen said, indicating the larger table.

"Terrific," Paul said. "Tryn's just gone to the main desk to see if you checked in while I said I'd check back here..."

Gene motioned to the waiter who brought two more chairs, and Paul breezily settled down opposite Gene on Calen's other side, while the final chair was placed in the vacant spot on the fourth size of the table. Paul ordered a pot of tea and regarded both Calen and Gene with a broad smile. He looked very satisfied and happy, dark eyes twinkling with that hint of mischief Calen hadn't seen for a long time.

"So... your girl's here to join us for lunch?" Gene asked.

"Yeah, she's got a day off school, I figured why the hell not... and she'll get to meet you, Calen," Paul smiled.

"Terrific," Calen smiled. Just then a dark haired girl strode up to the table, dressed in comfortable black slacks, black pumps and a loose floral blouse with ruffles under a leather jacket. Dark eyes, as dark as Paul's glistened behind gold framed glasses, her short hair cut into a stylish bob around her oval face. Her skin resembled Paul's in coloring, dark olive complexion. It gladdened Calen to see that she was pleasantly plump and the exact opposite of the playboy type blondes Paul often had on his arm. However she seemed toned and proportioned like Terri Mason as she smiled and took Paul's hand.

"Trynia Merin, meet Calen McGregor..."

"Oh my god, it's her," Trynia gasped. "K'mera L'dara right?"

"I take it she's a trek fan," Calen laughed. "Easy there, I don't' bite... that's Gene's job..."

"Sorry," Trynia flushed. "I just am getting used to all of this..."

"Calen's just like you and me, sweetie," Paul whispered into Trynia's ear, and gave it a soft kiss. Calen glanced at Gene with a smile of amusement at how shy Trynia seemed.

Paul's hand closed protectively around Trynia's giving it a soft strong squeeze, and he slipped that hand through his folded elbow possessively. Around Trynia's neck glistened a heart shaped locket with a rose design on it, slipping out of her blouse.

"Nice to meet you, Trynia," Calen smiled. "I hear you're an artist like Paul here..."

"We go well together," Paul laughed, stroking Trynia's cheek. "Tell them about your latest show..."

"Paul got this notion to put my paintings in a show here in NYC at the MOMA... and well I guess I sold a few..."

"She had her first major sale. But I took home the best piece that night," Paul joked, nudging her.

"Shut up," she laughed, blushing slightly. "But you Calen, I recall you were in Forever Sterling right? Paul said that you were friends, but I found it interesting how rock and roll overlapped with Trek..."

"You meet all sorts of people in this business," Calen said. "We've been friends for a few good years now..."

"So Paul, you bringing your lady to the book signing?" Gene asked.

"Sure... and we were going to get a bite afterwards... you coming along Calen... you'd be welcome to join us..."

"Well I don't think I have anything pending tonight. It would be interesting to see all your fans showing up to get Gene's autograph..." Calen smiled.

***

It was said to get into the store one had to buy a box set or a book. Yet Trynia, being who she was, and Calen, being who she was both stood by the table had a front row to the spectacle. Fans snaked around the block and out of the store, waiting anxiously for Gene to sign his book. Beside him, Paul Stanley scribed over the box set and any other items that people wished for him to place his John Hancock on.

"He sure loves his fans, doesn't he?" Trynia chuckled to Calen.

"He sure does, considering his name is beside the word ham in the dictionary," Calen joked back.

"How did you two meet?" Trynia asked Calen.

"Good question. We've known each other for years," she answered. "Sometime I'll tell you, but it would take too long here..."

"Gene's intimidating, but he's not so bad... once you get used to him," Trynia said. "When I first met him and Paul..."

"It was on their last tour, wasn't it?" Calen asked.

"How much did Gene tell you?" Trynia asked back, her jaw tensing a bit.

"That he and Paul stopped to help a girl who was walking alone in the middle of the night on the side of the road... and that they got you a room at their hotel... and that Paul was pretty taken with you..."

"Yeah," Trynia laughed. "Sorry... it's not that I don't trust Gene but.."

"You don't have to say anything else," Calen held up a hand. "Gene tells me things he doesn't tell other people, and you should know now that if it was anything Paul didn't want told, it wouldn't have gotten to Gene..."

"Thanks..."

"Do me a favor Trynia... relax a little bit," Calen told her. "You're so worried about what people will think of you before you even meet them that you'll make yourself sick. Just remember we're human beings too, okay? We put our stockings on the same way you do, one leg at a time okay?"

"I'm sorry to be starstruck I just..."

"Relax, you'll be fine," Calen nudged her. "You're Paul Stanley's woman, and Gene's friend, and now you're my friend too. Enjoy it."

"Well, it all takes getting used to... I mean I was relieved Cher didn't' think I was a nuisance... in fact... we got along pretty well..."

"Now WHY would YOU be a nuisance," Calen laughed, giving Trynia another nudge. "Stop selling yourself short. Or else I'll kick your butt."

"You kick my butt?" Trynia laughed, tension abating. "Not if TERRI has something to say about it, missy..."

"Terri would be RIGHT next to me," Calen teased. "There you go. That's MUCH better isn't it?"

"What is?" Trynia giggled.

"Laughing. You're relaxing FINALLY, aren't you, girl?"

"You think?" Trynia chuckled.

"I don't think, I know," Calen smiled back.

Paul Stanley rubbed his face, pulling out a silver tipped marker to continue his work on the box sets. He seemed to be tiring quickly, while Gene still continued to chat it up with the female fans, even grinning as he watched one red head drop her pants and show a black lacey thong, her backside an open invitation for Gene's signature. Paul rolled his eyes and laughed to himself.

"They stop at nothing, don't they," Trynia laughed, flushing red. "Good grief!"

When Paul leaned over to give one attractive blond a kiss on the cheek, Calen noticed the muscles in Trynia's throat tightening. She could see the gleam of angry jealousy glimmering in the other girl's eyes, and Trynia turned away for a moment.

"Hey, it's okay," Calen whispered. "Why don't we go get some fresh air..."

"I would like that. It's sort of hot in here," Trynia said cryptically.

"C'mon, I'll buy you a drink," Calen suggested. "We'll just tell the security boys where we're going and have Gene and Paul find us...

"Thanks..." Trynia nodded as Calen urged her along. Whispering to Chris and Steve where they were going, Chris nodded.

"I hope you don't mind, but I need to make sure you ladies are okay," Chris said.

"I promised Paul..."

"Okay..." Trynia nodded.

"I'll keep out of sight. You won't even know I'm there," Chris grinned. He followed both Trynia and Calen at a distance as the two women exited out the back of the store. Calen and Trynia strode up the street, finding a small coffee place that served nice pastries. Scopeing out a table, they sat down and waiting for their orders.

***

By the time Gene and Paul joined them, they noticed Calen and Trynia laughing like old friends. It gladdened Gene to see Trynia making new friends so soon, and Paul pushed Trynia over playfully in the booth so he could sit down. Gene grabbed a chair and sat down next to Calen, patting her hand.

"THERE you are," Paul scolded Trynia. "Rushing off like that and making ME worry my head off!"

"You guys were working, so we decided to go play," Trynia shot back at Paul's mock pout.

"You didn't get very far, did you now?" Gene playfully growled at Calen in his best Demon voice.

"And disappoint you gentlemen in the chase, I think not," Calen chuckled back, smacking Gene on the arm.

"Can I have some of THAT?" Paul asked, pointing to Trynia's ice cream sundae.

Trynia held up a spoonful of messy chocolate sauce to Paul's lips and he took his time nibbling it off the spoon. She purposely rubbed a bit over his mouth, smearing his face with whipped cream.

"Hah, she nailed you, Stanley," Gene laughed.

"I wonder if that's ALL they're going to nail tonight," Calen chuckled. Paul laughed and wiped his face with the back of his hand, and then held the remaining dollop of whipped cream up before Trynia's lips.

"You naughty girl, you're going to have to pay for that," he teased. Trynia licked the cream off his finger, and laughed.

"so what's good?" Gene asked Calen, who had a piece of cheesecake drizzled in cherries.

"Cheesecake to start with, but you already KNEW that, didn't you?" she joked.

"That's not the ONLY flavor of cheesecake I like," Gene winked at Calen, ever the flirt.

"Can I have a cup of decaffeinated tea, and a slice of German chocolate cake?" Paul asked the very surprised waitress who had just walked up to take their orders.

"I'll try that chocolate silk pie," Gene said. "And coffee please..."

"Right," the waitress said, as Gene winked at her, and Paul cast her a winning smile. The one two combo of both attractive men melted her inside and it was all the waitress could do to keep her knees from shaking.

"You two are TERRIBLE, you know," Calen shook a finger at her. "Scaring that poor waitress like that..."

"As long as she doesn't put cayenne pepper in my order I'm fine," Paul smiled, slipping his hand under Trynia's arm and linking their elbows together.

"Hey, I need to keep in shape," Gene said. "Nothing like a little warm-up..."

"Since when does a master like You need a warm-up, now?" Calen winked at Gene.

"Depends on WHAT I'm warming up to..." Gene answered her challenge, soft brown eyes gleaming into her hazel ones. A bolt of something passed between them, the very air crackling with a smoldering energy that made Paul and Trynia exchange an odd glance. Then the moment passed and Calen picked up her mug of tea, sipping it slowly.

"You're always practicing, but what about performing?" Calen asked Gene.

"Practice makes perfect," Gene answered, his eyes loosing themselves in hers again. Their gazes locked for a long moment, a strange common urge drawing them together.

"Who wants to practice all the time though?" Calen answered.

"Good point," Paul chimed in. "So Gene... what's the agenda for this weekend?"

Gene glanced back at Paul, distracted momentarily, but regrouped quickly. He said," Just a little of the usual... the book signing we just did, and a few days to visit some friends... its pretty much open now... other then the Carson Daily show tomorrow... but I think I can fit in a few personal visits..."

Why did Calen feel an odd shiver over her at the sound of those words? She dismissed it, commenting, "I know your mom's at the top of that list but..."

"Plans can be subject to change..." Gene answered her.

"You could come out and pay us a visit," Trynia offered. Gene turned his gaze to her again.

"Only if you feel up to it, that is," Paul qualified it. "After all, I'm going to have Phantom this weekend... and Tryn... don't you remember that one dealer who was interested in your newest landscape..."

"Well I didn't think it would hurt to invite Gene to see our place..." Trynia whispered back.

"I'd love to," Calen said. "If you wouldn't mind. I had planned to relax the rest of this weekend..."

"Gene?" Trynia asked. "we do have a guest bedroom..."

"Well tomorrow might work," gene nodded. "Sure, we'll come to visit you guys... see your little love nest..."

"Oh dammit I forgot," Trynia groaned. "Paul, I have to go pick up some more paints tomorrow if I'm going to get the finishing touches done..."

"Relax darling you can do it during the day... if you leave first thing tomorrow and get your pretty backside home," Paul said, squeezing her hand. "I've got the matinee tomorrow and then I'll come home with these two..."

"All right but..."

"I've got a few errands to run in town. But I'll come back with Gene and Calen, if they're up to visiting us then..." Paul began, but stopped.

"I'll let you know Stanley," Gene said, with a sideways glance at Calen.

"Oh?"

"Actually Gene means we haven't seen each other for a while, and well we thought we'd spend a little time tomorrow catching up," Calen answered.

"Sure, that's cool. If you want to move coming out to Saturday..." Paul said, pulling out his calendar.

"Let's just see how it goes," Gene said meaningfully, narrowing his eyes a bit. "IN the meantime I don't know about you, but I'm damn beat."

"You beat, it's only ten," Calen said with a grin. She saw something dark in Gene's gaze, a strange weariness, and stopped her smile midway.

"I just think I need to call it an early night," Gene said slowly.

"Yeah, I hear you there, I've got some things... I have to take care of tomorrow myself," Calen said. "I don't know if tomorrow would work..."

"Hey, it's not carved in stone," Trynia said, but Paul held up a hand.

"Don't worry honey, I'm sure Calen will come over if she wants..." Paul said. "And anyway it is late... what say you we go back to the hotel and crash..."

"You sure Paul?" Trynia asked.

"I am NOT having you drive back this late, love," Paul scolded her. "You're staying with me tonight... for a nice hot relaxing soak..."

"Oh Paul you are making it VERY difficult to say no," Trynia half pouted.

"That's his job, babe," Gene laughed.

"Stay with him it's easier," Calen laughed, tossing a napkin at Trynia. "Enjoy the luxury suite and have a ball... I would if I was in your shoes..."

"I insist... and you are NOT driving home tonight MISSY, if I have anything to say about it," Paul said, taking Trynia's hand and tugging her to her feet.

"Since you put it THAT way, mister," she said with a laugh as Paul drew her to his side.

"See you later Gene," Paul laughed. "Gimme a call okay?"

"Sure thing. We'll do lunch," Gene laughed, as Paul tugged Trynia out of the restaurant with him.

"Nice meeting you," Trynia called to Calen. "I hope you'll consider our invite!"

"Sure thing," Calen smiled, shaking Trynia's hand as Paul playfully dragged her out the door behind him. Soon Gene and Calen were left alone at the coffee shop.

"What was THAT all about?" Trynia asked Paul as he walked her to the limo Chris had waiting for them.

"What was WHAT all about?" Paul asked innocently, letting her in first before climbing in behind Trynia. They both settled into place together, the limo door slamming with a solid thump that vibrated the vehicle temporarily.

"You know, Gene's eyes were all OVER Calen..." Trynia said, over the sound of the car engine revving into life. "He had that look..."

"What look?"

"Don't insult my intelligence Paul, you know PERFECTLY well what I mean..." Trynia sighed. "That 'I'm gonna eat you alive look' that he gives any woman he's about to bang..."

"Which is precisely why we want to be elsewhere, sweets," Paul answered smoothly. "I know Gene well enough to know when to butt out..."

"But what about Terri?" Trynia asked, frustrated. "This isn't fair to her..."

"Wait a minute, hold on," Paul put a finger over her lips. "You don't know WHAT is going on here..."

"Don't I? Paul I just KNOW he's probably looking at her like..."

"Tryn, look, what they do is NONE of our business. For all we know they are staying in separate hotels..."

"But Calen is single, and..."

"Trynia, it's sweet of you to worry about Terri and Gene, but it's not your concern to worry about Gene's liaisons, or lack of them. Don't you know how dangerous it is to jump to conclusions..."

"So I'm supposed to just LOOK the other way when..." Trynia snapped in irritation.

"Gene did when he did you," Paul said. "Look honey, I'm sorry... that was uncalled for... but you KNOW Gene by now..."

"Yeah... but it still... I just don't get how..." Trynia sighed, and closed her eyes. "Maybe it isn't any of my business. Maybe I am out of line here... but I'm just worried about Terri... I mean she is four months pregnant... with Gene's kid..."

"Terri can take care of herself," Paul said. "And I promised I wouldn't interfere in Gene's relationships, like he promised he wouldn't' in mine... at least not till things get to a point where they would affect KISS..."

"I know Gene's the male version of a slut when it comes to women... and I know we've often said that good sex and making love can be two different things when it comes to men... I mean I know that you have had your own liaisons... but it just seems weirder when Gene has a girlfriend with a child on the way... it's one thing if both people are single, and in an open relationship but if there's a kid involved.."

"You're right Trynia, but it's HIS decision, and Terri's. I can't say I approve, but I know when to butt out..." Paul said, slipping his arm around her shoulders. "And besides, we don't know what's going to happen once we leave there..."

"I know it's his decision and all, but when it's someone I know..." Trynia asked.

"I'm more concerned with what's going to happen with you and me, aren't you?" Paul murmured seductively, rubbing his hand lightly up her thigh.

"I know love," said Trynia laughing a bit. "But you can't blame me for worrying can you?"

"Not at all, it only shows you've come to care for Gene and Terri a whole lot," Paul nodded, stroking her cheek. He took her hand and placed it on his thigh, moving it steadily upwards.

"I just can't see how you can just overlook when..."

"Gene's just Gene... and Terri knew what she was getting into, going into the relationship," Paul explained, breathing softly into her ear as he placed her hand EXACTLY where he most wanted it to be. "And anyway... umm, it's not like she hasn't known that either..."

"Do you think he tells her about his liaisons?" Trynia asked.

"I think they are totally honest... I mean... he did tell Terri about what happened the night we all met... but he knew better then to brag it over the whole place...and you didn't see Terri coming after you in a jealous rage..."

"No I didn't... it's like Gene was with Shannon before they broke up about five years ago..."

"Terri's relationship is a lot like Shannon's and Gene's was. But I want to tell you that's not what I want between you and me," Paul whispered into her ear, softly kissing it.

"Besides I can't have you leaving a trail of bodies behind me... now can I?"

"You have a very warped sense of humor," Trynia said. "I thought GENE was bad..."

"It's always the quiet ones," Paul grinned, moving her hand up and down slowly.

"Don't I know it," Trynia nodded with a wry smile, continuing what he had shown her he wanted done. It seemed like they almost couldn't reach the hotel soon enough for her and Paul.

"Mmm," Paul murmured. "Just KEEP doing that baby..."

"You sure... be very sure..." she joked back.

"I'm absolutely Positive you should continue..." he cooed back.

Next day Paul saw Gene down in the restaurant, sipping a cup of coffee opposite Calen. It was after one PM, and Trynia had already left that morning so she could get back to Villanova for some pressing school business.

"I guess you aren't bright eyed and bushy tailed, huh?" Paul asked.

"What makes you so damn cheerful in the morning?" Gene asked him.

"I don't know, making love to the love of my life perhaps?" Paul said.

"Shut up Paul," Gene muttered.

"Enough you guys," Calen held up a hand. "Are you going to tell him or do I have to, Gene?"

"Tell me what?" Paul asked.

"I uh... was wondering if you wanted to um... well... go have that meeting you were talking about..."

"Well I'd rather not say in front of the lady," Paul whispered.

"Bullshit, she can hear anything that I can," Gene sighed.

"Well I was going to um... ask your advice about something. If you wanted to come along with me to a jewelry store because um... well," Paul started. "But I guess you are umm busy..."

"No, we weren't," Calen said pointedly. "Were we Gene..."

"No... but..."

"Well if you don't have anything pressing I was uh thinking Gene and I could well... look at some jewelry..."

"Wait a minute you want ME to go shopping with you?" gene asked, with a weird look on his face. "What's all this about..."

"I don't know... maybe we could bring Calen along for her input..." Paul said. "I mean um women know a lot about jewelry, especially diamonds..."

"If you wouldn't mind me tagging along," Calen said. "I'd be happy to... what sort of a store did you have in mind..."

"Uh... Tiffany's... I wondered if they did umm... custom pieces," Paul said.

"Well depends on what you want," Calen said. "I know my friend when she uh got a certain item she wanted had it designed..."

"So Paul, what exactly DID you think you wanted to get?" Gene asked.

"I'll let you find out when we get there..." Paul said.

***

The three friends stepped out of their limo, in front of Tiffany's. Paul reached into his jacket pocket for a piece of paper and checked it quickly, before stuffing it back into his jacket once more. Glancing at Gene he walked in first, followed by Calen, then Gene, who reluctantly glanced around the building.

Calen drew in her breath at the wealth enclosed within the glass cases. Paul glanced around for a jeweler, tugging Gene's sleeve as he headed toward the diamond rings. "What do you think of that one?" he asked Gene.

"I can't believe YOU are asking ME about rings..." Gene muttered.

"Well you're my best friend, and I want the best. What would you get... if you... well... oh never mind... I suppose you aren't the one to ask after all..."

"Now WHAT'S going on Stanley?" Gene asked his friend.

"Excuse me, can I help you gentleman?" asked a young woman standing to their side.

"I'd like to know if you do custom pieces," said Paul, pulling out the piece of paper tucked into his pocket calendar.

"Certainly sir, what did you have in mind?"

"Well, something in diamonds... with platinum setting... in this design," Paul said, pointing to the sketches on his paper. Glancing over his shoulder Calen realized just what it was. So did Gene for that matter.

"Very nice sir... who designed it?" she asked appreciatively.

"I did," Paul said with a shy smile. "I well, do some art now and again. I was wondering how long it would take to do, and what the cost would be?"

"Stanley, why settle for a custom job when they have a lot of nice rocks here already?" Gene asked, pointing to the rings in the case before him. He realized that he was right in front of the engagement rings section.

"If you'd care to look around sir, I'll find my manager and ask him to give you an estimate," the lady offered. Paul nodded and watched her disappear into the back with his picture.

"Paul, do you realize how much more expensive it'll be if you get it designed?" Gene asked him. "And why the hell didn't you come out and SAY you were getting Trynia an engagement ring?"

"Shh, I want it to be a secret," Paul hissed.

"You sly dog," Gene laughed. "Damn..."

"Congratulations Paul," Calen smiled. "That's so sweet..."

"Uh could you uh keep it under your hats?" Paul asked them, glancing at the larger rings on display.

"Well damn, are you gonna carry the thing around for the next year or so?" Gene asked him.

"Depends. I have to wait for the right time..."

"That's just like you," gene rolled his eyes.

"Hey, it's not like you could even GET what it all means anyway, right?" Paul needled Gene. "Considering it's against what you believe..."

"Excuse me sir, can I help you?" another clerk asked Gene. He glanced at Stanley who was all set to tease him.

"As a matter of fact you CAN," Gene said. "I want to see your selection of engagement rings please..."

"Gene?" Calen asked with a sly smile. "Did I just hear that right?"

"Whoa Gene, are you kidding?" Paul asked.

"Mind your own damn business, kid," Gene glowered at him. "Can I see that one please... no the big one..."

"Of course sir," the lady said, reaching into the case and unlocking it.

"Do you have it in something slightly larger?" Gene asked, when she extracted the ring and flashed it for him.

"That's LOVELY Gene," Calen muttered. "Size doesn't matter..."

"Try telling HIM that," Paul chuckled.

"Shut up, you," Gene shot at him. "Go speak to your custom designer. Me I'm a practical man..."

"It is pretty," Calen said. "But you might want to try that one..."

With a manicured finger she pointed to another ring, with a smaller stone bordered by rubies on either side. Gene glanced down and nodded. It was a marquis cut, lovely, but he didn't care for the setting.

"That's our 3 carat special flanked by 1 carat rubies sir... very nice, and available for twenty five percent off..."

"Not bad. But do you have something more unique then this? The lady I'm buying for has a more practical taste... and that looks like it might get caught on something..."

Meanwhile Paul was whisked away by the manager, who had Paul's design in hand. Gene glanced up from the four rings he and Calen were perusing to say, "Hey Paul, why don'tcha see if they have something you can gussy up?"

"Gene I want it to be perfect," Paul said.

"Begging your pardon sir, but we do have a few rings similar in design to your specification we COULD modify... if it would make it quicker to give it to you," the jeweler explained. "To at least give you a concept of what the ring's quality would be like..."

"Great," Paul nodded. "Let's look at them..."

***

"I think you made a great choice," Calen nodded as Gene patted his pocket. They exited the jeweler's together, while Paul remained inside.

"You think?" Gene asked. "I hope so... I mean it's not like I've done this before..."

"Thank you!" Paul called after him, letting the door shut behind him.

"So, everything's all set?" Gene asked him.

"It's awesome," Paul smiled broadly. "They will have it ready in a week..."

"I'm so happy for both of you," Calen congratulated each, slipping her arms around either man and giving each a peck on the cheek in turn. "FINALLY!"

"Now wait, it doesn't mean that I'm going to give it to her TODAY," Gene said slowly. "Just... well... at the right time..."

"Gene," Calen nudged him.

"Well, it's like Paulie here said... the RIGHT time has to come along..."

"Uh huh Gene," Paul nodded. "You DO get it..."

"Well just don't' forget to give it to your ladies, guys," Calen cautioned them both. "Because I'm the eye witness here..."

"Don't tell a soul," Paul said.

"Who me?" Calen asked, with wide eyed innocence. "I was busy signing autographs, remember?"

"Thanks doll," Gene said, leaning over and hugging her.

"Anytime... now just you REMEMBER to give that ring to Terri..."

"Uh that was another thing I wanted to talk to you about. Do you think you could keep this safe for me, till I uh..."

"Work up the nerve?" Paul asked.

"Are you sure Gene?" Calen asked.

"Uh till I find the right time to give it to Terri... I mean so she won't suspect anything..."

"If you want," Calen said. "Then I can remind you every so often not to FORGET to give it to Terri..."

"You're doomed, man," Paul laughed, as Gene handed the ring box to Calen. She slipped it into her purse and zipped it up carefully.

"Now remember, I will be reminding you..." Calen pointed at Gene.

"I am doomed," Gene laughed to Paul.