Path to Elysian

[zydrate]

Michael seemed in better spirits this morning than she had seen him when she seen him in the rehab center. That was good as she was happy for him. Although she wasn't a morning person, he made her morning a little more enjoyable.

He asked if they could take their coffee with them for a walk. Paige nodded as she had just finished a sip and stood, setting her cup down and stood up. "That sounds like a great idea." She picked up her coffee and walked with Michael to the back door that lead from the porch and toward the dock.

It was early still but it felt good. The cool breeze kissing the lake and coming onto shore still felt very nice.. mixed with a warm cup of coffee, it was perfect. Again, they were both quiet as they walked slowly toward the dock, "Maybe tonight you'll actually make it to bed," she teased him.

"Hmm... I remember sitting here a lot with my Grandfather as he taught me to fish," she sipped her coffee, "he would always tell me to talk quietly as I would be scaring the fish. It was his gentle way of telling me I talked too much."

Wow...where had that memory come from? Actually, she knew where it came from but why mention it? She didn't want to bore Michael with it.

"But yeah, we'd sit here, talk about anything and everything... I like to think it was his way of actually getting me to sit still for more than an hour. He would always tell people I was either going to be a doctor or a politician... of course the latter would make my father happy."

"I spent so many summers here and when I started to drive, I would of course, break the law, and drive down anyway to see him and my grandmother. I don't know how, but they knew when I would coming down to stay for a few days."

She stopped, realizing she was babbling and sipped her cooling coffee, "If you're up to it, we can walk back up the dock and toward the shore line."

 

[BeachBum25]

"Maybe tonight you'll actually make it to bed"

He looked at her and smiled when she said that. "Oh, so what, you want to take advantage of me in my weakened state? Oh, oh... you mean make it to the bed in the room that you said I could use. Oh, okay. Yes, maybe I will." He laughed a little as they walked.

Michael enjoyed listening to Paige talk as they walked out onto the dock. There was something about her that made him relax. He really enjoyed her company.

"But yeah, we'd sit here, talk about anything and everything."

"Paige, we can talk about anything and everything that you want. You have gone above and beyond to help me out. The least I could do is to engage you in conversation about topics that are of interest to you. I really enjoy being around you, and you are definitely helping in my recovery, just by having me here."

When she asked if he was up to walking along the shore line, Michael nodded affirmatively. "Lead the way Paige. If I am not up to something, I will let you know, however, it would have to be real extreme for me to turn you down for anything."

He followed Paige. Michael felt like he was getting stronger. It was probably just in his head, and had more to do with being around Paige than it did anything else, but, as long as he felt tike he was getting better, he was in favor of whatever it was that made him feel that way.

As Michael followed Paige, he found his eyes wandering over her body. He couldn't help but admire her fine ass as the walked toward the shore line. He was careful not to stare though. he didn't want to get caught and risk ruining his time here at the lake with paige.

 

[zydrate]

it was just small walk off the path from the dock to the shoreline of the lake. This early morning, the water was calm and had a few gentle waves hitting the shore.

The morning was chilly but still, warm... at least what they weren't really used to feeling in the city. It was also quiet, save for the sound of the water and a few birds making their debut this morning. During the walk, she could feel Michael's eyes on her and to say she didn't not like it...

Perhaps she was overthinking it... this was no time to think like that, but it always seemed to cross her mind about their disastrous date night. A night she felt like she could have acted a lot better... after all the man went out of his way and got her flowers that were almost impossible to get. And yes, he could cook..

What could have been had the date gone a different way? As in, what if it had gone better? A good night kiss? Yes, he could definitely kiss, as she thought about their kiss in his apartment, it was something she had hoped could happen more often.

She sighed with longing and just stared at the water for a bit and realized she did love it here. It was only here at the lake house had she felt like a real grown up.. no parents down her back about her career and making them grandparents. She sipped her coffee and broke the silence, looking at Michael, as he too had been looking at the water, "What you thinking about?"

 

[BeachBum25]

As they stood looking at the water, Michael felt a peace he hadn't known in a long time... if ever. It was quiet, it was relaxing... dare he say.. it was perfect. Perhaps it was just that he had never had an opportunity to be out in nature like this. Also, it could be that being out here in nature was where he belonged.

"I am thinking about how wonderful it is here. In the short time I have been here, I feel so much more relaxed than I have felt in a long time. I think that being here is definitely going to help with my rehab and it will speed up my recovery. Of course, I don't want to be a burden and outstay my welcome. I want you to tell me when it is time for me to make my way back home."

It had not even been 24 hours since Paige helped him break out of rehab, but he was already starting to feel like a burden. Yes, it had been her idea to escape the rehab place after he jokingly talked of getting out of there, and it was Paige's idea to come here, but Michael still wasn't certain that Paige was okay with it. He was also wondering if she regretted the decision she made in the spur of the moment.

"Being out here is incredible. Not having my cell phone on makes it even better. How long do you think it will be before your parents start looking for you. Being around your parents for a while showed me that they can be quite overbearing. I could see that you were not happy with being made a part of the campaign, so, I can't imagine them going very long without wanting you to make an appearance. Frankly, I am surprised your phone isn't blowing up."

Michael thought that it was time for Paige to stop doing what her parents wanted and start doing what she wanted. Paige was an accomplished Emergency Room Physician who was great at what she did. Michael had witnessed it first hand, several times. Although he didn't believe in the way that she handled a couple of bad people, he admired her dedication to making people better. It was obvious her parents did not see her that way. It was almost as if they saw her as a necessary item in the family portrait. Despite the way he felt about her relationship with her parents, Michael didn't say anything. It wasn't his place. He wasn't in a relationship with Paige. In fact, he wasn't sure what you would call what they had. Were they friends? He had no idea, but he did know that he liked being around her.

He took a sip of his coffee that was getting cold. "I think this is the perfect place to do some of our rehab work. It has a great view of the lake and I think that it would help to promote an increase in our physical activities. What do you think Paige?" He looked over at her; letting his eyes wander over her before bringing his eyes back to hers.

 

[zydrate]

Despite the situation, Paige had to laugh at what Michael said about her parents. She finished up her coffee and just nodded... quiet for a moment, Paige shrugged, "My parents.. oh God, my parents..." she turned her body to sit facing him, "Let me tell you something about the Mr. & Mrs. Jackson. They don't like taking care of anyone who is sick. Did you know not once did my mother come see me in the hospital the second time I was admitted?"

She saw the look of surprise on Michael's face when she said that... so she explained to him that she was readmitted because her wound had gotten infected and that required her to readmitted for a few days. "My father came to see me though, only to tell me that it would probably if I stayed away while I was recovering. Should I have been hurt by that? Probably but it was expected. He didn't want a constant reminder of what happened at his expense." She shrugged, "If they do call and have to leave a message, trust me, they won't get worried if I don't call them back right away."

Sighing, she shook her head, "I know it sounds cold hearted of them and the way I talk about them but that's just how I grew up. I accepted it a long time ago that they are the way they are and I can't change it..." the last part she had a tone of sadness in her voice as she turned away from Michael, "I always said if I were to have kids, I would not treat them that way. I would actually be there for them and listen to them..."

Paige was going to lay down on the dirt but knew her shoulder would not enjoy that... instead, she lay on her side, her head propped up by her hand, "And describing them as overbearing is putting it mildly. They didn't even come to my graduation... they had other plans already that couldn't be changed."

Why did she mention kids? He probably didn't want to know that... actually he didn't need to know that... right? Getting up, she dusted herself off and brushed a few small weeds from her hair, "But you are right about the rehab... once you're feeling better, there are a few trails we could walk or run, depending on how you're feeling at the time. Like I said before, we could get some swimming in as part of the therapy. Did you want to walk back to the house and write some plans down? Then get some breakfast?"

 

[BeachBum25]

He wondered about her mention of having kids. She didn't say "when she had kids," she said "if she had kids." It made Michael wonder about how she saw herself. Did she think of herself as a doctor first and a woman second, or was it the other way around?

"I could tell there was an odd relationship between you and your parents Paige. It is very noticeable to anyone who takes the time to notice. Most people, I am sure, just focus on your father, and your mother. They just see you as a member of the happy family. That is what your parents want. The fact that your father doesn't want you around because you were wounded in an attempt on his life tells me one of two things; either he is upset that what happened to you was partially his doing, or he thinks that you being around him with your arm in a sling would be a sign of weakness. Based on what I came to know about your father, I would believe it to be the latter."

Watching her lay on the ground, Michael saw a different side of Paige. She was letting her hair down, in a figurative manner. He never imagined that Dr. Jackson would be someone who would lay down in the dirt.

When she stood back up, Michael picked a weed out of Paige's hair that she missed as she was brushing herself off. After tossing it aside, Michael nodded. "I can't wait to get to the point that I can run along the trails. Of course, I am going to have to walk before I can run, and to get there, I need to make sure that I am doing my physical therapy. So, yes, why don't we go back to the house. I will make some breakfast for us and you can write down our plans for PT."

He placed a hand on the small of her back before allowing her to walk ahead of him. Following her back to the house, Michael felt comfortable in these surroundings. he wasn't sure how long it would be before she wanted him out, but he was going to enjoy it to the fullest as long as he was here.

Once back in the house, Michael immediately proceeded to the kitchen and started preparing breakfast. He cracked eggs for omelettes and sliced some cheese to go in it. Then, before starting the omelettes, he fired up some bacon to go in them. While he was cooking, he shared with Paige some of the exercises that he wanted to do as part of the PT, and he told her that he wanted to do PT at least four times each day. "Yes, it is aggressive, but I want to be running on the trails around here as soon as possible."

When breakfast was ready, he plated it and sat one in front of Paige as she sat at the counter. "I hope this is up to your standards. After all, I figure if I do a good job cooking, you will keep me around for a while." Before sitting down, Michael turned on the radio and looked for some music. After finding a station, he sat down next to Paige. When he sat down, he heard a news report about a reporter being found dead along the banks of the Charles River. Michael did not react, but he saw Paige stiffen. Something told him that this was the reporter Seamus was asking about.

 

[zydrate]

He was right. Paige knew this but she wondered if others could see what he did?

Feeling his hand on the small of her back sent a shiver through her... "I'm sure we can find a bear or two to chase you," she told him as they walked back to the house.

Once there, she had gotten a notebook and wrote down what Michael was describing about what he wanted to do as far as exercises. He mentioned doing them at least 4 times a day... she wrote that down and also noted 'might be a little too much...' She then continued to write down what she knew she would need to do for her shoulder. Although it wasn't as bad as it was in the beginning, there was still a lot of pain flare ups every now and then. "Looks like I'll have to go back into town for a few more things later today, like exercise bands and such... did you want to tag along?" she asked.

Setting the food in front of Paige, she set the notebook aside and looked at the food, "If you keep feeding me like this, I'll be too huge to even move, let alone chase you out. You know, there's no hurry, I'm not going to toss you out... unless you plan to rob me blind." She started to dig in, "It's so good."

It was the top of the hour so when the news came on, Paige wasn't really paying attention until she heard the words 'reporter found dead' and something about the river. She stopped eating and took a sip of water the news finished up. Could that have been the reporter who had tried to talk to her? No... that would be too much of a coincidence... she would try to call him later and see if she could get a hold of him... it wasn't him, she told herself.

"I hope you're not planning on making me do therapy right after breakfast."

 

[BeachBum25]

Showing no outward reaction to the news of the reporter being found dead, Michael began to eat his breakfast. "If I keep feeding you like this, it will just mean that we are going to have to find ways to work off the calories. Our PT routines will be one way, but we will have to find other ways also." He looked at Paige and smiled before continuing to eat his breakfast.

"I would like to go into town with you, if you don't mind. Although I might slow you down a little, I think it would be a good thing for me to get out and about. Maybe what you could do is send me to get a couple items while you are getting other things. That way I wouldn't actually be slowing you down." Taking a sip of his coffee, Michael looked at what Paige had written about their PT routines. "No Paige, it isn't a little too much, but I promise, if it starts to feel like it is, I will back off so that I don't become a burden to you."

Getting up from the counter, Michael collected the dishes and carried them to the sink. While washing the dishes and the pans, he turned to Paige. "Oh, and to answer your question about therapy right after breakfast, no, I am not going to make you do therapy Paige. I am not going to make you do it at any time. I am going to "encourage" you to do therapy as often as I do it, but I am not going to try to make you do it."

Once the dishes and pans were washed, dried and put away, Michael told Paige that he would like to get a shower before they went into town. When he went into the bedroom to get a change of clothes from his bag, Michael sat down on the bed. He pressed his arm to his side while he rubbed his hip with his other hand. He knew that he was overdoing it. He knew that he should not be moving around as much as he did. Michael was moving around trying to avoid any limp and trying to hide any pain from Paige. It was like he was trying to impress her.

After taking his time to get undressed, get into the shower and then get out and get dressed, Michael made his way back into the main living area of the house. When he saw Paige coming down from getting changed, he had a hard time taking his eyes off of her. As she approached him, he smiled at her. "You know, all of the men in town are going to be checking you out, and I am not going to be able to defend you against all of them. Of course, I am sure they have all seen you on your prior visits." He winked at her. "Are we ready for our road trip?"

As they drove into town, Michael wondered what the town was like. He had a vision in his head of what the town was like, but that mostly came from movies or television shows. Other than his time in the military, all of his life had been spent in the big city. He was anxious to see what small town life was like.

 

[zydrate]

"Ohhhkay," she said, smiling. Perhaps it wasn't too much but she would be able to stop his therapy if he wasn't progressing.

He had wanted to shower and so did Paige. She went upstairs to her room and grabbed a few clothes she had left here from previous stays. There wasn't much in way of dressy clothing but she wasn't going to be doing anything fancy, just going into town to get a few more things.

Once she was done, she put her damp hair up in a loose bun and added a touch of make-up. Nothing much as she didn't wear it too often... after dressing in a pair of shorts and t-shirt, she walked down the stairs as she felt her shoulder cramp up a bit. She saw Michael waiting for her so she pushed the pain back and gave him a smile. He had said he would not be able to defend her from all the men in town, "Oh, don't worry... I can hold my own I'm sure... after all, I could just push you in front of me and run away."

"Just so you know," she said as they walked to the car together, "if you do get too tired, let me know and I can run into some places myself while you wait in the car... just a suggestion."

They were on the road and heading toward town, which was only a 25 minute trip. The drive there was very nice as they had their windows down and could feel the coolness from the morning. Once in town, Paige gave a brief backstory of the town. It was mostly a retirement town where those from the surrounding cities could come and retire to live out their days. It wasn't too big but it wasn't small either. There was a main street where there were plenty of local businesses that also catered to tourists who found there way there.

 

[BeachBum25]

He looked at Paige as they walked to the car. "Paige, do not worry about me and whether I get too tired. I am a big boy. If I get tired, I will find a place to sit down and do what guys do while the women shop..... sit and people watch." He almost said sit and check out the women passing by, but he wasn't sure how Paige would react to that, and he didn't want to mess things up since they were getting along so well.

Looking out the window while Paige drove into town, Michael, once again, couldn't help but enjoy the beauty of being outside the city. He listened as Paige told him the backstory of the town. Hearing that it was mostly a retirement town, Michael laughed. "Oh, so the town is full of old people that are waiting to die. I guess you have to go to the city to find anything fun to do."

Once they were in town, however, Michael was impressed. It was small town America. The main street was fairly busy, even on a weekday, and there were a lot of different types of businesses. It was actually pretty cool. "I have to take it back Paige. I said people come here to die, well maybe some of the retirees do, but I am very impressed by this little town. I could get used to it."

Thinking about what he said and how it might have sounded to Paige. "I didn't mean that I would be moving into your house on a permanent basis Paige. I just meant that... well, if I wanted to get out of Boston, this would be a place I could see myself relocating to."

When Paige found a parking spot, they got out of the car and started walking along the street. He followed Paige into a few stores and carried a couple of the bags with items she purchased. When they got to the small grocery store, Michael insisted on paying for everything. Despite a little argument from Paige, he was the one who handed his credit card to the clerk.

Walking along the street, Michael was beginning to feel the effects; he was tired and sore. However, he was not going to admit it to Paige. He pushed himself a little until the started to walk past the Sheriff's Office. "Paige, do you mind if I stop in here for a second." He saw the look she gave him. "No, I am not going to apply for a job. I just want to say hello to fellow law enforcement officers. You can continue shopping and I will meet you right back here."

Paige agreed. Michael went inside and introduced himself to the Deputy that was sitting at the front desk. He showed the Deputy his badge. They talked for a few minutes and then the Deputy asked Michael about his limp. "Well, I was injured on duty and I am off work for a while." He didn't want to say that he had been shot, because he was afraid that it would look like he was showing off to the small town deputy.

"How does a Lieutenant get hurt on the job. Don't you guys just sit around and give orders," the Deputy chuckled. "Well, I wasn't a Lieutenant at the time, and I was on a security detail when I had to take some action." Just then, the Sheriff came out from the back office. "Hold on a second. Are you the Boston fella that got shot protecting the mayoral candidate?" Michael looked at the ground. "Yes, that's me. I was trying to keep it low key. Some people think I am proud of being shot and that I am bragging when I talk about it."

"Heck no. I don't see it that way. Hell, you took a couple of bullets and you are standing here able to talk about it. You should be proud as hell, man." Michael was starting to regret coming in here. "Are you just in town visiting for the day?" Okay, now how do I handle that question. "Well, I am staying with a friend while I continue my rehab. I got tired of doing it at a rehab center and my friend has a place up here and offered to let me stay there while I get better."

The Sheriff couldn't stop asking questions. "What is your friend's name? I know most of the people that live up here." Damn it. How could he get around this question without getting Paige involved. He really couldn't. "I am staying at Dr. Jackson's place for a little while." The Sheriff went on about how he knows Dr. Jackson and how he knew her grandparents. Michael listened for a while.

"Listen Sheriff, I am sorry to cut you short but this is really my first day out and about, and I am getting pretty tired. Maybe we could continue talking another day." The Sheriff agreed and told Michael that he would hold him to it. When he walked outside, Paige was just returning. "Sorry, but I had to invoke your name in there. They asked where I was staying. I kept it formal and called you Dr. Jackson."

 

[zydrate]

In the stores, Paige had picked up some more clothes for herself as she would be needing some workout clothes so she could continue her physical therapy sessions. She also picked up some books to read in their downtime... sure they were medical books but she liked to keep up with the latest research with the medical industry.

"I'm sure it's fine. The sheriff is just... inquisitive. After all, it's in his nature." She looked up and saw the sheriff watching them from the window of his office. Paige gave him a small smile and a wave. He just raised his cup at her in response.

She waited for Michael to get into the car before securing her seatbelt, "So, I didn't realize how long we've been out and it's already lunch. We can stop and get something to eat at home or I can make us some sandwiches at home."

***

Once they got home, Paige was exhausted. She could feel the events of the past few days starting to catch up with her. The bags were brought in and their food from town was waiting for them on the kitchen bar counter. Paige had gone to a small pizza place and gotten a small pizza and some salads. Things were put away and she got their good ready. They both ate and talked a bit more of what they wanted to accomplish with physical therapy.

Michael seemed extremely determined to started as soon as possible and Paige just hoped he wasn't pushing himself too hard. Even though he had told her time and time again not to worry or baby him she couldn't help it.

Their discussion was interrupted by Paige's phone ringing. She didn't bother picking it up the first time but as soon as it ended, it started to ring again. Getting her phone, she looked at the display and sighed... her father. Instead of answering, she clicked ignore for the call but as soon as she did that, it rang again.

They could play this game all day... in fact, she had done this before and the results were not good. Instead of hitting ignore once more, she answered...

"Paige, what the hell is going on?!" were the first words from her father and she just shook her head, "I'm fine Dad, thank you for asking." Looking at Michael, she held up a finger and walked outside near the dock.

It turned out, the good Sheriff called Paige's father and told him his daughter was here. He had known Paige had been injured during one of his debates and so he thought it would be best to let her father know that she was here... with some guy.

Perfect.

"Are you there with that police officer Paige? The one that let that man--"

"You mean the officer who saved your life, Dad? The one who risked his life and also got shot in the process of keeping you safe?! Then yes, I am here with him, although that is none of your business, is it?"

"I swear Paige, if anyone knew about this, the papers will talk and they are just waiting to smear my campaign with any sort of news, including that of my own daughter shacking up with the cop wh---" That was it. Paige ended the call and turned the phone off. She took a few minutes to herself to calm herself down before heading back inside.

Once inside, she gave Michael a small smile and continued to eat her salad, "So, you started to tell me something before we were interrupted."

 

[BeachBum25]

As soon as Michael realized it was Paige's father on the phone, he knew it wasn't good. When she walked outside to continue the conversation, Michael figured that they were talking about him being there. Yea, it probably wasn't a good idea. It wasn't like they were dating or anything, so, the two of them in the house alone could lead to a lot of rumors going around the small town. In fact, Michael wondered if someone had seen them together and called her father.

Michael sat there and contemplated whether he should just call for a car share and go back to his place and do his rehab from there. He liked Paige and did not want to cause her any problems.

When she returned from her phone call, he smiled at her. "Yea, I was about to tell you that maybe this arrangement isn't a good idea. Maybe I should just go home to my place and do my rehab from there so that I don't cause you any problems. It can't be a coincidence Paige that you got a call from your father as soon as we got back from town. I bet an old acquaintance of his saw us together and gave him a call to let him know."

"I know you don't need me to do your PT. Hell, someone as smart as you knows exactly what to do to get her body back into peak condition... as if it wasn't close to it already. I appreciate what you did for me Paige, but I don't want to interfere with anything in your life.. especially family."

He picked at the food in front of him a little. Then looked back at her. "You went out of your way for me. I won't forget that."

 

[zydrate]

She listened to what Michael was saying. This was in no way his fault, but she let him finish anyway before she answered.

With a hard sigh, Paige shook her head, "No Michael... I said you can stay here and that still stands, unless you really feel that you don't want to, that is." She set her fork down and reached over and gave his hand a squeezed, "Please don't worry about it. My parents are... complicated. I am doing this because I want to. I made the decision to bring you here, right? It's not like I took your gun and made you come here." She smiled, letting go of his hand, "Although in your state, I could've just pushed you out of the facility, screaming..." she tried not to laugh.

"Listen, let's forget about it, OK? The longer you hang around me, the more you'll come to ignore what my father says and does. Say you're going to stay... please?"

"Anyway, we have a lot of work to do. At least say you'll stay for a week... trust me, my father has no say in any of this."

With that, seeing as how they both lost their appetite for lunch, Paige, stood up and took Michael by the hand, "Come on, I know you want to get started as soon as possible. So, let's start now... join me in some yoga? I know, sounds weird probably but trust me, yoga is what got me through medical school. Besides, after that, we can reward ourselves with a movie or two? I remember someone's favorite movie is Braveheart," smiled and gave him a knowing look, "You thought I wasn't paying attention that night, right? Well, I was... so, ha! I didn't get to tell you my favorite movie is Gremlins! Oh my goodness! They are so cute... I wish they were real... I can just imagine having a few around..."

 

[BeachBum25]

"Yoga? You want me to do yoga with you?" He laughed a little when Paige told him to join her in it. When he realized she was serious, He nodded to her. "I'll tell you what, I will give it a try.... only because you helped me escape from my rehab jail."

As he got up to follow Paige, he told her that he had never seen Gremlins. "We can watch that first, since I haven't seen it and it is your favorite movie. I must say that I am impressed that you remember my favorite movie. You better be careful. Somebody might think you like me when you pay attention to little details like that."

He watched as Paige showed him what to do. After she demonstrated, Michael tried to do each of the moves/ poses. Some of them actually felt good. Others not so much. Cobra pose and upward facing dog (names that Paige gave for certain movements) hurt his hip when he did them. Although they caused pain, in typical stubborn fashion, Michael did them anyway.

The one thing that Michael did not mind, however, was watching Paige demonstrate each pose. Even with her injury, she moved very well, and some of the movements actually showed off her body, which Michael enjoyed watching.

Once they were finished, Michael was surprised that he had worked up a little sweat. The way she had him moving caused some strain on his body when he was doing it which caused him to exert more energy than he thought would have been necessary in yoga. "Well, I must tell you that I used muscles that I never knew I had before. I think we can incorporate that into out regular PT."

 

[zydrate]

"Same," Paige lay there, on the mat and nodded to what Michael had said about incorporating this into their PT. She grimaced as she sat up, using her stomach muscles to help her sit up. She didn't want to say but she was in pain. She felt like perhaps she might have strained her healing shoulder muscle more. With a hard sigh, she gave him a thumbs up sign, "Sounds good."

Paige stood up, "It's been a while, I tell you that. I should have kept up with it but you know... life and work and all that sort of BS." Walked into the kitchen, she grabbed 2 bottles of water and came back to give one to Michael, "I know it's early but we should think about dinner. Maybe watch the movie with dinner?" She asked. "And then --" Paige was interrupted by a clap of thunder and she gasped, not expecting it. It almost reminded her of the sound of gunshots... Looking at Michael, she laughed, "Sorry.. wow.." walking to the window, she saw it had clouded over quickly and dark clouds indicated rain, "I guess it's going to rain." Turning back to Michael, "Good thing we got home when we did."

Distant rumblings sounded and Paige told Michael she was going to go upstairs and take a quick shower... she had also wanted to take a couple of pain relievers while she was at it.

***

By the time Paige was done with her shower and dressed in a pair of shorts and t-shirt, it was raining steadily outside. She looked around for Michael and didn't immediately see him... figuring he was in his room, she finished up her bottle of water and that's when she saw him standing under the covered part of the porch, watching the rain. He seemed to have a lot on his mind and was lost in thought. That was fine. She really was glad to be able to help him in his recovery. She made her way to the door and soon joined him outside, "Hey... this is common for this time of year... it just means fall is right around the corner." So is your father's election... she heard a little voice tell her. She brushed past it and told Michael about how she hoped they wouldn't lose power. Paige was pretty sure they wouldn't as the rain was just a light falling rain at the moment...

"Oh, as for dinner, how about burgers? I can make it if you make the salad?" They had everything needed for meals at least for a week so no trips were needed into town for a few days.

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael saw Paige jump with the rumble of thunder. "Hey, are you okay Paige?" She laughed it off and said she was sorry. He wasn't sure if she was afraid of thunderstorms or if it was something else.

He watched as she went upstairs to take a shower. Yes, it brought some naughty thoughts to his head, but he quickly shook them off. She had made it clear on their one failed date that she wasn't interested in anything happening between them. He would respect that.

While Paige was showering, Michael walked out onto the porch to watch the storm. He loved thunderstorms and could spend hours just staring into them. He got lost in his thoughts. Once again, there was the thought of Paige. He remembered how he thought things would go between them and his disappointment in how the date had ended. He thought about getting mixed up with Seamus and how he wished he had never gone to him about Thompson. Seamus always took things to the nth degree. Michael wanted a little threat put into him. He had not wanted him killed and his place burnt down. He also thought of getting out of Boston. He was sure that he could find a law enforcement position somewhere that would get him away from all of the nonsense that surrounded him, including the soon to be mayor.

Paige startled him when she talked about the storm being common for that time of year. "I could get used to it. I love thunderstorms. I love watching the light show that lightning puts on and I enjoy the accompaniment of the thunder and how it accentuates the show."

"Oh, so you are capable of cooking up some burgers?" he joked with her. "Can I trust you with your burger cooking ability?" He smiled at her. "Okay, I will make the salad. Watching a movie after dinner sounds like a plan."

They headed inside and Michael followed her to the kitchen. As she worked on the burgers, he put together a large salad. After mixing it in a big salad bowl, Michael took it to the counter with two salad bowls. "Hey, how are you doing with those burgers?"

 

[zydrate]

"Of course I can cook some burgers..." she wanted to smack his arm but thought better of it and just turned, heading inside and to the kitchen, "If you're lucky, you might even get to see me, not only catch a fish, but fillet it."

If there was one thing she was good at cooking, that was burgers. She had mixed in some fresh garlic and had cut up some cheese into small cubes, mixing it in. Cooking them up, she made herself a glass of ice water. Her shoulder was feeling a little better after that shower but she knew she would be sore later on.

Serving them up on a plate and brioche buns she had picked up earlier in the day, she placed them on the counter where they seemed to be eating a majority of their meals since arriving. The dining table seemed too formal for their more common meals. As they made their burgers how they each liked them, Paige told Michael a little more about the town just a few miles away. She didn't hold a grudge toward the sheriff for calling her father... he didn't know any better. He was just used to small town rules and was looking out for Paige.

Somehow, the conversation turned to Paige telling Michael about stories of her growing up there. She had spent a good majority of her summers, in between school, here with her grandparents. Of course her mother had insisted Paige attend some of the summer camps the other mothers were sending their children to but that just wasn't Paige's style. Besides, she learned a lot more from her grandparents than any camp or school could teach her. She also held onto a few old ideas about life but that was a conversation for another day perhaps? She wasn't sure. "I hope I'm not boring you AND I hope I don't sound conceited with talking about myself..." She said before taking a sip of her water.

 

[BeachBum25]

"You like to fish? Maybe you can teach me how. I have never done it before. Growing up in the city does not afford many opportunities to go fishing. Plus, I am not so sure that I would have the patience for it. Now might be the time to give it a try. When you are ready, of course."

After Paige finished the burgers and placed them on the counter, they sat down together to eat. Michael took a bite of the burger and then smiled to her. "Wow, this is great. So, there is actually something you can cook," he joked at her.

Michael listened as Paige talked about the little town nearby. He enjoyed his time with her, and was happy to hear about the town and the people that lived in and around it. He enjoyed listening to her talk about growing up out here with her grandparents and how she had pushed back at her mother when it came to attending summer camp.

"Paige, you are not boring me at all. I enjoy hearing you talk about growing up out here. It is so much different than what I experienced in the city. When I was a kid, I would have loved being out here even for a weekend. It is awesome out here and I appreciate you having me out here. Of course, now that I am here, I may never leave." He smiled and winked at her. "Of course, by not leaving, I mean I may have to find a place of my own out here. It is so calm. It is so quiet. I could definitely get used to living out here. Of course, I would have to find some kind of job, but I am sure that I would be able to find something."

When they finished eating, and Michael ate every bit of his salad and the delicious burger, Michael took both of their plates and bowls to the sink and washed and dried them before putting them back in the cabinet. It was still storming outside. "Would you mind if we just went outside and watched the storm for a little while? I understand if you don't want to. It is just that I think that thunderstorms are so amazing."

 

[zydrate]

"Sure, I would like that actually." It had been a long time since Paige had actually stopped for a minute for herself. Not that there were many rainstorms in the city, she knew she had to take time out for herself. Besides, it wasn't like she had anything else to do for the moment. It was just odd to not be busy... but the pain in her shoulder had reminded her of that.

Once everything was washed and put away, Paige walked out with Michael and sat on the covered porch. Because of the storm, it was darker than usual at this time of day but still, it was nice. A flash of lightning would appear and then seconds later, a thunderous tremor or even a boom would sound. There was a light drizzle that Paige could see as it made the lake waters ripple. Paige had to admit, this was nice. She took a deep breath and could smell the dampness in the air. It was a calming affect as she closed her eyes to take in the moment. After a moment, she opened her eyes and saw Michael looking at her. With a nervous laugh, Paige shrugged, "I'm sorry, it's just... this..." she gestured before her, "this isn't something I'd picture happening here...ever. Besides my parents, you're the only other person who's seen all this. Of course, I also mean besides my grandparents friends and such. This is the first time I, myself, have brought anyone here to visit...let alone to stay." She could feel herself blushing. "I'm getting mushy aren't I?"

It was then the rain started to fall a little harder. This just reminded her that winter would be here next... which wasn't a bad thought. In fact, it would be nice to be here to see the season change from Fall to Winter. And she couldn't think of anyone better than Michael to spend it with...

They were both quiet a little more as the air chilled and they watched the rain come down in a steady rhythm. Paige was going to say something but just as she was about to speak, the lights that were on when they had come out to watch the rain, had gone off. It was a hard enough storm to knock out power... that and this home seemed to do that a lot in the winter. "Hmm, good thing it's not the dead of winter. I'm sure it'll come back on soon." She said, not feeling too confident about that. Instead of worrying about it now, Paige turned back to look at the lake. The breezed picked up a bit more, as well as the cooler air, making her shiver.

"I think we should go in now." She told Michael in a loud voice, only because of the storm picking up and she was sure he wouldn't be able to hear her otherwise. "It'll calm down soon!"

 

[BeachBum25]

While they sat on the covered porch, Michael listened as Paige talked. It appeared that Paige was somewhat flustered as she talked about sitting out there and how she never brought anyone here and how besides her parents and grandparents, nobody had seen this before. Then she mentioned that nobody had been brought there to stay before.

He wondered if she was having second thoughts about having him there at her house with nobody else around. Michael was about to say something to her when Paige said that they should go inside. Michael was a little disappointed. He was enjoying the cool night air with the rain and the thunder and lightning.

Michael stood up in front of Paige. "Hey, listen Paige, if I am making you uncomfortable being here, I can go. I appreciate everything that you have done for me. You have been a great help. You bought me clothes. You visited me at the rehab place. You were my getaway driver. You have been supplying a place for me to hide from everyone since you broke me out. You have gone above and beyond. I don't want you to be uncomfortable in your own house. If you are, I will leave."

He looked into her eyes to get an idea of what she was really feeling. Paige was hard to read. She definitely worked on keeping her true feelings hidden.... at least from him. He could tell that she wasn't sure how to respond, so, he stepped aside to let her go into the house.

 

[zydrate]

Once inside, Paige turned to Michael, now that she didn't have to shout. "And no Michael, you weren't making me uncomfortable out there. And if you mention one more time that you can leave, I might to have to tie you up and keep you here. It's all fine with you staying here, please believe me, OK?"

"But... you will owe me..." she said in a teasing tone and left that 'threat' hanging in the air as she went to the fireplace to start a fire. The night called for a fire as the rain continued to fall outside...

*** 2 months later ***

Time seemed to fly and soon, Paige found herself waking up on Halloween day extremely sore because of her workout from the day before. Michael was practically healed from his injuries and had lately been pushing Paige past her exhaustion point. Yes, her shoulder was a lot better and it didn't hurt anymore, not like it had the weeks following her being shot.

She heard the shower down the hall start and assumed Michael was awake also. As soon as he was able to comfortably climb the stairs, he took the bedroom at the end of the hall. They had spent these past couple of months getting better and getting back in shape. Paige had actual abs! Hell, she was in better shape than she had been in her life... all thanks to Michael.

Today was both a good day and bad day... a good day because she had gotten it out of him that his birthday was today. He was a Halloween baby and she had a surprise cake that was going to be delivered later that day, as well as some gifts.

The bad day was because it was nearing the mayoral election which was coming up the following Tuesday and despite her objections, Paige had agreed to go to the after party to make an appearance. She didn't want to but she had literally ignored her parents' life these past few months and so she had felt like she had to do this. It was a touch topic between herself and Michael... why was it touchy? Well, the had become closer as their friendship seemed to solidify over these past few months. Not that Paige didn't mind. He really was a wonderful person and well... she had seen the man with no shirt and damn... just damn... he was sexy as fuck. She hadn't wanted to see it before but as the weeks together, she had come to her senses....

With a groan, she pulled the covers back over her head after laying down again. She wasn't ready to get up... she was sure she fell asleep for a few more minutes before her comforter was yanked off her of her....

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael was feeling much better. In fact, he was probably in better shape than he had been since his time in the military. For the past two months all he had done was get his body healed and into tip top shape. He had to admit, Paige was getting her body looking fine, also. Not that she didn't look good before, but with all of the working out and therapy they had been doing together, she looked even better.

During their time together Paige and Michael had grown really close. They talked a lot; shared many details of their lives... even talked about past significant other's. Michael had shared that he had never really had a close relationship with a woman. Having gone into the military had made a relationship difficult and when he got out and joined the police department, he had really committed himself to his work. "There was this one woman I thought things would work out with, but ultimately things happened that put up a road block with her." Michael wondered if she knew who he was talking about.

They also talked about the upcoming election and the fact that Paige had agreed to go to the after party with her parents. "It is probably a good idea Paige. At least it will show your parents that you are not totally cutting yourself off from them. While you spend time with them it will give me an opportunity to get myself situated back in the city. After all, you are going to be returning to work soon and you will not be commuting from here."

His birthday was not a big deal for him. In fact, it was no deal at all. As far as Michael was concerned, it was just another day. He was up early and decided to jump into the shower. While in the shower, he wasn't sure why he was there, especially since they were going to be working out before breakfast. After the shower, he put on a pair of sweatpants and a long sleeve t-shirt and headed down the hall.

He didn't hear any movement in Paige's room. He listened closely.. nothing. Deciding to have some fun with her, Michael snuck into her room. He moved to the side of the bed and as he yanked the comforter off of her, he yelled, "let's go sleepy head... we have to get our workout started."

 

[zydrate]

Paige screamed when the covers came off and grabbed her pillow hitting Michael with it... both laughing. "How dare you?!" She said into between laughs, not even realizing he had straddled her. As much as this was just 2 friends being silly, Paige looked up at Michael and the both of them stopped, both breathing hard...

She had gone to bed in her normal type of sleepwear, a tight fitting T-shirt and her panties and at the moment, felt like she had too much on. Reaching up, she grabbed Michael by the front if his shirt and pulled him down and at the same time lifted her head and kissed him.

It was a hard kiss of want and need....with probably some desperation mixed in... yes, these past few months they had gotten closer. Each sharing secrets...wants...needs...

Breaking the kiss, Paige fell back on to the bed, "I'm so sorry..." but really...she wasn't.

 

[BeachBum25]

As Paige swung her pillow at him, Michael climbed onto her bed as he reached for her wrists in an attempt to pin her down. It was not his intention to climb into bed with Paige when he had come into her room, but here he was... straddling her.

He didn't control her arms and Paige was able to reach up and grab him. She gripped his shirt hard and pulled him down to her. Before he knew it, their lips were locked in a kiss. It was deep. It was passionate. And he wanted more of it. He had wanted a kiss like this Paige since their failed first date. Finally.

Looking down at Paige after she broke the kiss, Michael smiled at her when she said she was sorry. "No, you are not sorry. You are not sorry even a little bit. Well, you might be sorry because the kiss ended."

Michael leaned down to Paige. This time, he initiated the kiss. It was a hard kiss and before he knew it they were each trying to be the ones to control the kiss. Their tongues were soon engaged in an erotic duel as Michael began to push Paige's tight fitting t-shirt up her body. He wanted her badly.

 

[zydrate]

Paige smiled at what he said about her not being sorry... she didn't deny it as she returned his kiss, her lips locking with his as her hands reached up and stroked the side of his face and neck. She arched her back to help him get her shirt off but that meant she had to leg go of him and break the kiss. Raising her arms, he peeled her tshirt off as she reached over to do the same to him.

If all they did right now was kiss each other like this and that was it? She would be happy with that. His lips felt so good against hers... lips, she had to admit, she wanted to kiss for a long time now.

She wanted more, that was for sure.

Once Paige was able to remove Michael's shirt, she leaned up, pressing herself against him, their skin touching fully...all while their kisses never stopped. Paige wasn't sure what came over her as she reached up and moved his hands up her sides and to her breasts, which she felt him squeeze, making her moan in his kiss.

Pulling Michael down next to her, she ran a hand over his stomach and side, using her nails to scorch his skin... They had all the time in the world right now and as much as Paige wanted to rush things, she also wanted to feel him inside of her, which caused her to wrap a leg around his waist. She still had her panties on and he had his sweats..

Her hands moved up his arm and then shoulders... against his neck and then to the side of his face, which she cupped as she deepened their current kiss, giving herself to him... Yeah, they had talked about past relationships, to which she never really did have, thanks to school and work. What was she feeling now? Lust? Want? Need? In between moans and hardened kisses, Paige didn't know and at the very moment, she didn't care as she just wanted to feel him and taste him.