(pick up from p. 28)

"I just don't to talk to anyone right now." said upset Cassie.

"I understand but sooner or later you need to talk to your mother about this." said Dr. Lee.

As he left he went back to Mrs. Sutton.

"May I see my daughter right now?" asked Jenn impatiently.

"Now it's not a real good time to see her Mrs. Sutton." said Dr. Lee.

"Look I have travel all the way from Lincoln Heights to see my daughter.  Now I want to see her right this instance." said Dr. Lee.

"Look I understand but it's late and Cassie been through enough.  Please come back tomorrow.  I am sure Cassie will explain to you everything.  I talked to her myself and I think she may something to say.  Please Mrs. Sutton your daughter been through enough she is still very weak we don't want anything to excite her so try to go easy on her." said Dr. Lee.

"You know what fine.  I bet she has miscarried and she's not telling me.  And I bet she hasn't told Charles either.  He;ve would've been the father of three children." said Jenn.

"Get some rest because you look like you need it." said Dr. Lee.

Batman642

Before she drove her rental car to her parents' house, Jenn sat awhile behind the steering wheel and just thought about her life and her family and especially her daughter, Cassie.......

"The doctor's right, regardless of what happened to her, Cassie is very weak and needs rest and peace of mind.  She also needs someone she can confide in and obviously that person isn't me."

After a few minutes, Jenn got a brainstorm, so she found Lulu's number in her cell and dialed it.

Out at sea, Lulu's phone rang while she was studying for a test.  She glanced at it, didn't recognize the number, but decided to answer it anyway.

"Talk to me," she said.

"Lulu?  It's Jennifer Sutton."

"Mrs. Sutton!!!!! Hi!!!!  It's so good to hear from you!!! How are you doing???!!" Lulu asked, happy to hear Jenn's voice.

"Not too good," Jenn admitted.

"Oh my God-----what's wrong???"

Jenn sighed.  "Lulu, I hate to put this on you, but you're Cassie's best friend---"

"OH MY GOD!!! WHAT'S WRONG WITH CASSIE???  ARE THE TWINS OKAY??? CHARLES---IS HE SICK AGAIN??"

"Lulu, honey, please calm down," Jenn coaxed her.  "Are you alright?"

"I'm sorry!" Lulu apologized, still very alarmed.

"Now listen carefully.  She's doing alright now, but Cassie is in the hospital.  She and Charles and the kids were on their way to Utah and she .......... fell ill.  I gather you didn't know any of this?"

"No way!!!  When did this happen?!"

"Two days ago."

"Poor Cassie!!!  What's wrong with her?"

"She said she had a fibroid and it ruptured," Jenn replied.

"Eeewwww....sounds nasty....."

"The reason I'm calling is that I think Cassie needs to talk to someone like you," Jenn explained.

"Of course she does!  I'll call her right now---unless you think it's too late?"

"I think she'd be happy to hear from you no matter what time it is.  I just hope her cell is on," Jenn worried.

"If it's not I'll leave her a voice mail and let her know we're in her corner, Mrs. Sutton.  I feel terrible...."

"She'll be alright," Jenn assured her.

"I know, but I was so busy celebrating with Robin and all and I haven't even spoken to my girl, Cassie.  And now, come to find out she really needed me!  That sucks!" Lulu said, annoyed with herself.

"Just call her, Lulu, okay?" Jenn advised.

"Sure thing, Mrs. Sutton.  I'll call her RIGHT NOW," Lulu promised.
Candygwen


So Lulu call Cassie.  Cassie heard her cell rang and it was Lulu.

"LULU!!!" suprised Cassie.

"Cassie hey I heard you were in the hospital.  Are you alright?" asked Lulu.

"I fine I guess...just weak." said tired Cassie.

Cassie didn't want to give away too much info.

"How did you find out?" asked Cassie.

"Your mother called me." said Lulu.

"Figures." annoyed Cassie.

"Is Robin here?" asked Cassie.

"Of course he still celebrating on the return." said Lulu.

"May I talk to him?" asked Cassie.

"Cassie I'm your girl.  I called to chat with you and you want to talk to my boo?" surprised Lulu.

"Lulu I know you're my girl.  I just needed to talk to him.  It's kinda of important." said Cassie.

"Well he just got back.  Atleast let him get settle in." said Lulu.

"Alright fine!" annoyed Cassie.

"Alright Fine...what's that suppposed to mean?" asked Lulu.

"I'm sorry Lulu I'm just tired that's all." said Cassie.

"Yeah I heard that you had fiber tumor." said Lulu.

"That's Fibroid Tumor and they caught it in time.  They say should be okay." lied Cassie.

"Well that's great because I really need my maid of honor." said Lulu.

"Maid Of Honor?" confused Cassie.

Batman642

"I told you before dummy---I want you to be my maid of honor!" Lulu laughed.

"Oh......yeah......so you did," Cassie remembered.  "But there's plenty of time for that---don't rush it."

"Well WHENEVER it happens, I just want you there by my side.  Don't forget---you're the one that got me and Robin together in the first place.  And I'll always be grateful for that, Cassie," Lulu admitted appreciatively.

"Yeah, I know."

"I can tell you're tired, girl, so I won't keep you.  I just wanted you to know that I'm here for you if you needed to talk."

"Thanks, Lulu.  We'll talk more later---I promise.  And when Robin gets back to normal, tell him I need to talk to him, k?"

"Sure, girl.  I love you, Cassie."

"Me too.  I love you too," Cassie replied.

Lulu hung up feeling a little strange after their conversation, but soon she got involved in her studying again.  Cassie, on the other hand, felt worse than ever.
Candygwen

"I don't know which is worst Robin getting married or me not having anymore kids.  How can I explain this to Charles?  Why does everything keeps happening to me.  I hate my life.  I really really hate my life." said Cassie in tears.

Meanwhile Jenn arrived at her parents house.

"How do I approch them?  What do I say to them?" puzzled Jenn.

Jenn finally rang the doorbell.  Judge Bradshaw finally answered.

"Jenn my you're home." said excited Judge Bradshaw as he hugged Jenn.

"Hey I'm happy to see you too." said Jenn.

"So you finally took my advice and dump the bum." said Judge Bradshaw.

"Dad I did not dump Eddie.  I came hear to check on my daughter." said Jenn.

"So you heard?" asked Judge Bradshaw.

"Yes and I am worried about her." said Jenn.

"Well either way I'm glad you here." said Judge Bradshaw.

"It's about time you showed up.  I was going to think you were too good to visit us anymore." said Beverly.

"Nice to see you too mom." said Jenn sarcasticly.

Batman642

Jenn came in and put her bags down.  "Is Dana here?  I really need to talk with her."

"No, you missed her by a couple of hours," Beverly replied.

"Oh, she stepped out?"

"No, she's gone back to where she came from," her father added.  "Left a note and everything."

"Oh that's just great!" Jenn said, disappointed.  "I've got a bone to pick with her!"

"Hmmmm......maybe that's why she left.  Did she know you were coming out here?" Beverly asked, curious.

"I don't know, Mom, and frankly I don't care.  Sooner or later she's gonna have to give me some answers," Jenn said upset.

"What seems to be the problem?  Dana seems to be a very nice young woman," her father continued.

"Ha!  She's nice alright!" Jenn replied sarcastically.  "So nice that I asked her to do ONE small favor and instead she lied to me about it!"

Beverly sighed.  "Jennifer........please don't stir up any drama!  We had a very nice visit with Dana---can't we do the same with you?" she asked exasperated.

Jenn put her hand on her hip and looked at her mother in disbelief.  "Oh no you're NOT comparing me with Dana!"

"Hey, hey, hey, calm down now you two!" the Judge said.  "Jenn, you've had a long flight and you're tired.  Let me take your bags upstairs for you and run you a nice hot bath --- would you like that?" he asked, trying to please her.

"Thanks, Dad," Jenn replied, still giving her mother dirty looks.

Beverly sucked her teeth.  "I'm not COMPARING you to Dana, Jennifer.  But if we can get along nicely with a total stranger, why is it that when you come in it's World War 3 after just five minutes???"

"MOM!!!!"  Jenn stopped herself from exploding.  "Nevermind----look, I apologize, okay?  You're right, we should be civil with each other."

She kissed her mother on the cheek.

Beverly gave her a phony smile.  "That's better, dear.  Now go upstairs and get that hot bath."

As Jenn went up the stairs, Beverly wiped the kiss off of her cheek.
Candygwen

"Look our daughter is home.  Can't you be at least civilize and act like you're happy to see her." angered Judge Bradshaw.

"She's the one came flying in here acting a damn fool." said Beverly.

"Our daughter is home.  I want us to be a happy family.  Is that too much to asked?" snapped Judge Bradshaw.

"Alright fine whatever.  I'm just glad that I have two other daughters." said Beverly as she left.

"Why can't I have normal kids like Dana and Robin?" sigh Judge Bradshaw.

Meanwhile Dana was at the airport and got to the airplane in time.  She was thinking about Cassie.

"Something is troubling Cassie I just know it.  I really wish I was her real mother.  I hope Jenn doesn't give her a hard time.  I don't know what Eddie sees in her.  But atleast her parents are nice.  I never had anyone treated me so friendly before." said Dana to herself.

Batman642

(Sorry I haven't ben writing in a while))
Meanwhile, Charles decided to go and visit Cassie with the twins.

As they entered the room Colin and Kalie jumped on the bed, waking her up.

"Mommy...mommy wake up," cried Kalie as she shook her mother.

"Kalie...is that you?!" asked Cassie drowsy.

"Me too mommy. I'm here too," yelled Colin.

"Hey beautiful. I'm sorry we woke you up, they jst really waned to see," said Charles as he sat down and placed the kids his lap.

"It's okay. I'm missed them so much," said Cassie as she stroked their faces.

"Beautiful what's wrong? I don't like to see you depressed. What have the doctors told you?" questioned Charles as he held her hand.
Robertadamsonlover

Cassie decided that this was her chance, and it it would either be now or never as far as telling Charles the bad news.

"Well, actually, the doctor did give me some bad news...." she began slowly.

The color drained out of Charles' face.  "How bad?" he asked, fearing the worse.

Cassie hesitated, and then said,  "Charles, we have two beautiful children---a boy and a girl.  Who could ask for more?"

"More?" he asked, confused.  "Are you saying you're pregnant, Cassie?"

"Nooooo........what I'm saying is........I'll never get pregnant again.  At least that's what Dr. Lee told me," she explained.

Charles swallowed hard.  "But why?"

Cassie shrugged, trying hard not to seem as upset as she really was.  "He said I suffered alot of damage.  Maybe it has to do with all of the blood I lost----I really don't know."

Charles looked very somber as he held Colin on one knee and Kalie on the other.

"I'm sorry, Cassie.  We never talked about having more kids-----so I don't know how you're feeling," he admitted.

"I'm dealing with it, Charles.  Like I said---we have two beautiful kids---one of each.  That's more than alot of people have."

"That's true," he agreed.  "Is that why your mom came?  To give you moral support?"

"Yes," she lied.
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"Don't feel bad beautiful.  Maybe the doctor is wrong they're usually are." said Charles.

"I don't know about that Charles.  He sounds serious." said Cassie.

"Cassie I've through the worst experience of my life.  The doctors were about to put me in a looney bin and they were saying I wasn't going to make it but I proved them wrong.  Look at me now.  I'm still standing." said Charles.

"That was different Charles." said Cassie.

"How is that different beautiful.  Look all I'm saying is miracle does happens." said Charles.

"I don't know.  Things are not going well for us Charles.  Soemthing bad always happens." said Cassie.

"I know how you feel but I just consider this a test." said Charles.

"A test?" confused Cassie.

"Yeah remember last year when we were held hostage at your house that someone up there is watching us?" asked Charles.

"Yes." said Cassie.

"I think they are putting us to the test." said Charles.

"I never thought of that." said Cassie.

"Cassie rather you can still bare kids or not I will always love you.  I am here for you and there for you.  I'm going to change Cassie.  Now I know you heard me say that a million times before but I really mean it this time.  Just give me a chance." said Chares as he touched Cassie's hand.

Batman642

"Give you a chance?  You don't have to worry about that, Charles.  That's why I was in your truck with you on the way to Utah in the middle of the night---I believe you're gonna change.  I believe you've changed already--a little."

Charles was happy to hear that.

Meanwhile, back on the ship, Robin knocks on Lulu's door to say goodnight before going to bed.

"Hey Boo!  You still up?" Lulu asked, surprised, as she let him in.

Robin laughed a little.  "Well YOU'RE still up!"

"Yeah.......I thought I'd be done by now, but Mrs. Sutton called and I kinda got thrown behind schedule," she admitted.

"Mrs. Sutton called?" Robin asked.

"Yeah, Boo.  You might wanna sit down for this....." she warned.

Robin sat, not liking the sound of Lulu's voice.

"Okay, I'm sitting.  What's up?" he asked in a serious tone.

Lulu sighed.  "I don't know what's up between you and Charles and Cassie, but now CASSIE is in the hospital."

"Say what?" he responded, caught off guard.

Lulu nodded.  "Something about a fibroid tumor exploding or something.  She's okay though---just feeling down."

"What's a fibroid tumor?" Robin asked, clueless.

Lulu shrugged. "Something feminine, Boo."

"Ooooohhhhh....." he said, not wanting to get anymore details.  "So....uh.....you called Cassie after you spoke to her mom?" he asked, curious.

"Of course!  She's our girl!  That's why her mom called me---she wanted me to cheer Cassie up."

"Did you?"

"She wasn't feelin it.  I brought up our wedding and she acted like she forgot all about it."

"Hmmm....she probably did," he said under his breath.

"Huh?"

Robin shook his head.  "Nothing."

"She said she has to talk to you about something," Lulu told him.

"I doubt that," Robin replied.

Lulu looked at him strangely.  "What's wrong with YOU?  Since when are you and Cassie on the outs?"

Robin thought awhile and then decided to let Lulu in on the text message he received from Cassie, so he took out his phone and showed her the saved message.

Lulu read it and stared at it for awhile in disbelief.  "Robin, what did you do to Cassie?" she finally asked.

"Huh?" he asked, not expecting that kind of reaction.

"You heard me.  Cassie would NEVER send you a message like this for no reason!  Now tell me---what did you do to her???" Lulu repeated.

As Lulu waited for an answer. Robin regretted showing her the text.
Candygwen

Robin didn't want to ruin the moment by telling Lulu that he and Cassie slept together.  So he told Lulu what she needed to know.

"Alright at the hotel. I was chillin' and I gotten a text message from Charles.  He must've saw on in Utah or something. I have done nothing to him or say anything to him.  But he told me in a very rude way to stay away from Cassie and the twins.  He doesn't want me to be a part of their lives anymore.  So I got pissed and reply to message and I told him off.  Then I blocked him.  I don't know if he told Cassie or what or he showed her the text message but she sent me text that she doesn't want me in her life anymore.  Charles finally mut've gotten to her.  She hurt my feelings but whatever.  I just felt sorry for her and the twins that she is stuck with a loser." said Robin.

"Let me see Charles text message." said Lulu.

Robin showed Lulu the message.

Batman642

Lulu read it.  "Typical!" she responded after she read it, shaking her head.  She handed the phone back to Robin.  "Sorry, Boo.  I shouldn't have come down on you like that.  Now I see what's really going on," she admitted timidly.

Robin hugged her.  "You don't have to apologize.  You were just sticking up for your girl---I mean OUR GIRL--Cassie."

"Soooo.......you're gonna call her after all?" Lulu asked.

Robin shrugged.  "Yeah...I guess....since you want me to."

"SHE wants you to, Boo.  She specifically told me to tell you to call her!" Lulu insisted.

"Alright, alright.  I'll call her tomorrow morning.  I've gotta remember she's dealing with a psycho and I guess it can rub off on her sometimes," Robin replied.

"That's my Boo," Lulu praised him, smling.

Robin kissed her goodnight and then went to his room, tired from a long day.
Candygwen

Later that night in Lincoln Heights at Marla's house Eddie heard a noise in the house is wondering what that was.

"Jenn back already?" Eddie wondered.

Eddie took a bat and started walking throught the hallway.  Lizzie woke up and saw Eddie walking.

"Dad what are you doing up with a bat?" asked Lizzie.

"Lizzie go back to bed." said Eddie.

"But you have a bat?!? OMG is someone in her?" scared Lizzie.

"Yeah it's seems like every well we go people are always breaking in.  I'm for one is getting tired of this." said Eddie.

Eddie went downstairs Lizzie slowly walked behind.  Then they heard a noise in coming the kitchen.

"Lizzie you wait here.  I'll go in the kitchen." said Eddie.

"Dad I'm going with you." whispered Lizzie.

"Dammit Lizzie will you for once do what I say?" warned Eddie

Lizzie reluntantly obey then Eddie went in and turned on the lights He saw Dana and Dana saw Eddie with the bat.

"EDDIE" Dana screamed.

Eddie quickly dropped the bat. He saw Dana all wet. 

"Dana..you're soaking wet." said Eddie.

"I know that it's been raining. WHat were you doing with a bat?" shocked Dana.

"I thought you were a prowler." said Eddie.

Batman642

Dana chuckled and shook her head.  "You can take the man out of Lincoln Heights, but you can't take Lincoln Heights out of the man...." she muttered.

"Prowlers can be in the BEST of neighborhoods, Dana," Eddie replied.

"You're right, Eddie...." she sighed, still shaking her head.  "Anyway, you glad to see me?" she asked, changing the subject.

"Sure, sure.  A bit SURPRISED, though.  I wasn't expecting you back."

"I made a last minute decision to come back.  And I think you can figure out why."

Eddie raised a brow.  "Jenn?"

Dana nodded.  "It's one thing to live with her under MARLA'S roof.  It's a totally DIFFERENT THING to live with her under HER PARENTS' roof----know what I'm sayin?"

"I understand.  Although, in defense of my wife, I'm sure if you were there with her she'd be very gracious and kind.  Jenn is a number one, Class A Act," Eddie said proudly.

Dana grunted.  "Hmph!  You said it right, Eddie---ACT--as in PHONY."

"Don't start, Dana.  She's not here to defend herself," Eddie said feeling uncomfortable talking about his wife.

"I know, I know.  I'm just sayin......"

After an uncomfortable moment of silence, Eddie continued.

"So how's my daughter?  Did you find anything out?"
Candygwen

"Cassie's alright.  She just depressed and tired." said Dana.

"Depressed!?!  Is something wrong with her?  Did Charles do something to Cassie again?" angered Eddie.

"No no no!!! It's nothing like that.  She just been through alot that's all." said Dana.

Dana didn't want to tell Eddie that she feels that Cassie is hiding something because she wants to talk to her herself tomorrow.

"So how is Jeron?  He didn't give you any trouble did he?" asked Dana.

"Lets just say he takes after you." laughed Eddie.

"You know you ain't right." laughed Dana.

As Dana took off her jacket she was soaking wet.  Eddie was staring at Dana.  He was watching the water running down her body and her tank top was soaked Eddie could see through her tank top.

"I am soaking wet.  I'm a mess.  Eddie...why are you staring at me like that?" asked Dana being uncomfortable.

"Oh nothing you just look so good soaking wet." said Eddie.

"Excuse me." shocked Dana.

"I meant you look fine." said Eddie.

"Thanks but I think I'm going to get into some dry clothes." said Dana as she walked out of the kitchen.

Then she ran into Lizzie.

"Lizzie what are you still doing up?" surprised Eddie.

Batman642

"Dana!  Hi!  You're back!" Lizzie said, startled.

"Hey sweetie!  I'd give you a hug but I don't want to get you wet," she apologized.

"It's okay, Dana, I like to get wet!" Lizzie giggled as she gave Dana big hug anyway.

"Girl, you're crazy!  I guess that's why I love you!" Dana laughed as she hugged her back.

"AHEM!!  Lizzie, I asked you a question!" Eddie interrupted sternly.

"Oh!  Sorry, Dad, but I was worried about you.  I thought you might need some back up," Lizzie explained.

Eddie sighed and shook his head.  "I don't know WHAT I'm gonna do with you, Lizzie...."

Dana slapped Eddie's arm playfully.  "Oh Eddie....you just gotta love her.  That's all!"

"Thanks Dana," Lizzie said.  "And welcome home," she added.

"It's good to be back, lemme tell you," Dana replied as she headed up the stairs.

"Okay, young lady, back up to bed," Eddie told his daughter as he pointed to the staircase.

"Are you mad at me Dad?" Lizzie asked, concerned.  "I really was worried about you."

Eddie thought for a split second and then chuckled.  "We're cool," he replied with a smile.
Candygwen

"Come on it's getting really late and we could used some sleep." said Eddie.

"Okay Dad." said Lizzie as they both went upstairs.

Meanwhile back in San Diego Charles was having a bad dream.  He dreamed that Charles went home and saw Robin having sex with Cassie.

"WHAT THE FUCK!!!!" SCREAMED CHARLES.

"Oh Robin I am so glad you're here.  I need a real man to make me feel like a woman." said Cassie.

"Hey someone has to get the job done." said Robin.

"And I'm glad it's you instead of Charles." said Cassie.

"Hey you need a man not a little boy like Charles." said Robin as he kissed Cassie.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!" screamed Charles as woked up.

"Charles calmed down." said Marla as she tried to snapped him out of it.

"Oh my God what just happened?" shocked Charles.

"You just had another nightmare that's all." said Marla.

"It seems so real.  I'm telling Robin is going to steal Cassie away from me." said Charles.

"Charles that boy is at sea with his girlfriend.  He could care less about your love life." said Marla.

Then they heard the twins crying.

"Now you see you woke up the twins." annoyed Marla.

"Sorry mom." said Charles.

"Well I've been with them all day.  You need to calm them down." said Marla.

Batman642

Charles got up, took Colin and Kalie from their cribs and carried them both back to his bed where the three of them slept together peacefully for the rest of the night.

Back at the house, Eddie wasn't sleeping as peacefully.  He was tossing and turning, trying to get his mind off of Dana.
Candygwen

"What am I doing?  I'm a married man.  A happily married man.  I got to get a hold of myself.  I know I'll fix some warm milk.  It'll put keep my eye off of things." said Eddie to himself.

As Eddie walk down the hallway he heard the showers water.  Eddie took a peek and saw Dana in the showers.  Eddie mouth opened wide and kept staring at her until Nate snuck up behind.

"Eddie!!" said Nate.

"Argghh...Nate...don't ever sneak up on me like that again." freaked out Eddie.

"What are doing up?" asked Nate.

"I couldn't sleep so I was getting some warm milk." said Eddie.

"Okay but why were you peeking in the bathroom?" asked Nate.

"I thought I heard one of the kids so I wanted to check on them." lied Eddie.

"Huh?" confused Nate.

"You know I don't need any warm milk Nate wann share some hot cocoa with me?" asked Eddie as he was changing the subject.

"Okay sure." said Nate.

The two went downstairs.

Batman642

Whew! That was a close call.....Eddie thought to himself.

Meanwhile, at Vera and Spencer's house, crying Natalie is having a hard time getting used to the strange surroundings and refuses to go to sleep.

"Now I see why Eddie didn't want to keep this little girl," Spencer complained to Vera.

"I don't think Eddie had anything to do with it.  Jenn is the one who didn't want to leave Natalie with him and LIzzie."

"Hmph!  Figures!" Spencer replied.

Vera picked Natalie up and cuddle her close.  "Okay, baby, everythng's alright....." she consoled her.

"I want mommy.... I want Lizzie....  I want Daddy....  I want Colin and Kalie..." Natalie whined.

"I want some SLEEP!" Spencer snapped back, startling her and making her cry even more.

"Spencer!  Stop scaring her like that!" Vera scolded, rocking Natalie back and forth in her arms.

"Vera, I'm not used to this anymore.  My days of crying babies is long gone---you hear me?  Now DO something!" he demanded.

"Spencer, what do you want me to do?  I don't know Natalie and she doesn't know me--at least not well enough!" she shouted back.

"Well since she wants Eddie and this one and that one, I'm calling him right now!" Spencer said, heading to the phone.

"It's two o'clock in the morning, Spencer!  You'll wake everyone!" she objected.

"So??  I'm awake ain't I??  If I can't sleep, NOBODY'S gonna sleep!"

Spencer called Eddie.

"Hey, Eddie, I think your phone is ringing," Nate told him as he sipped his hot cocoa.

"Maybe it's Jenn," Eddie said as he rushed for his phone.  "Hello?  Jenn?"

"No, son, it's me," Spencer answered.  "We can't get this little girl under control.  Any suggestions?"

Eddie heard Natalie crying in the background.  "Aw man.....sorry Pops.  I didn't think she'd be any trouble," Eddie apologized.

"Yeah, well, I guess you thought wrong.  Now what do you intend to do about it?" Spencer asked bluntly.

Eddie thought awhile to himself.....  This is my chance to get out of the house and away from Dana.....

"Pop, I'll come over as soon as I get dressed.  How's that?" Eddie volunteered.

Spencer couldn't believe it.  "Say what?  You're actually gonna come over here at 2 in the morning?"

"Obviously, Natalie needs a familiar face right about now, and I know Vera's gotta go to work tomorrow so she needs to get some sleep.  I'll spend the night over there with Natalie and calm her down," Eddie explained.

"Gee thanks son.  That's mighty big of you," Spencer replied, touched.  "See you when you get here."

Eddie hung up, explained what was going on to Nate and then went upstairs to get dressed.  While Nate stayed downstairs finishing up his cocoa, Dana came back down to the kitchen.

"MOM!!  You're back home???" Nate reacted with surprise.

"Hey baby.  Yeah, I'm back.  I got back a little while ago," she explained kissing the top of his head.  "I just got out the shower, and now I'm so wound up I can't sleep!"

"That was YOU in the shower???" Nate replied, remembering how he caught Eddie at the bathroom door.

"Yeah.......why?"

Nate shook his head.  "Nothing," he said, not wanting to cause any trouble.  "Welcome back."
Candygwen

"Thank you it's good to be back." said Dana as she hugged son.

"Meanwhile Eddie arrived over at arrived at Vera's house.

"Thanks for coming Eddie." said Vera.

"No problem!" said Eddie.

"Here take this brat." said Spencer.

"Dad that is no way to talk to a baby." said Eddie.

"Well she gettin' on my nerves with all that crying.  You guys has spoil that girl." said Spencer.

"She just not used to stranger." said Eddie.

When Natalie saw Eddie she jump for joy.

"Daddy I want to go home." said Natalie.

"I know sweetheart.  Hey how about if I stay here with you and we can go home tomorrow." said Eddie.

"Yay." said Happy Natalie.

"Eddie you sure that's a good idea?" asked Vera.

"I don't think Jenn would like that." said Spencer.

"Let me handle Jenn.  I'll take care of Natalie.  Anyway you two could used some rest." said Eddie.

Batman642

So  Eddie curled up with Natalie, Spencer curleld up with Vera, and soon they were all sound asleep.

The next morning at sea, Robin wakes up and remembers that he promised Lulu he would call Cassie.  As he dials Cassie's number he feels butterflies in his stomach.

I can't believe I'm actually nervous about calling Cassie. I haven't spoken to her in awhile, and after her last text message to me, I don't know what to expect anymore, he thought to himself. 

Then Cassie answered her phone.
Candygwen

"Hello?" answered Cassie.

"Cassie." responded Robin.

"Robin I am so happy that you called." said Cassie.

"I'm surprised you actually want to call me." said Robin.

"Robin we're friends why shouldn't I want to talk to you?" asked Cassie.

"Gee Cassie you can be so hard to figure out sometimes." said Robin.

"What are you talking about?" asked Cassie.

"One minute you want you happy see me the next you don't want to be around me." said Robin.

"Robin you're not making sense here." said Cassie.

"I'm talking about you sending me text message saying to leave you, Charles,  the twins alone." said Robin.

"WHAT!!! I NEVER SENT YOU THAT TEXT MESSAGE." shocked Cassie.

"Cassie I'm not stupid the message straight from you." said Robin.

"Robin I would never text you that horrible text message." said Cassie.

"Then I think you better check your saved messages.  Someone been messin' with your cell." said Robin.

Cassie checked all her messages on her cell and when she ran into that message Cassie was shocked and hurt.

"OMG Robin I am so sorry you got that message but I never text you that message.  I love you and I would never do that to you.  Someone must have gotten a hold of my cell." said Cassie.

"Who would've done such a foul thing?" asked Robin.

Cassie thought not knowing it was Kate who send Robin the text message she suspected Charles.

"I have an idea who did it...Charles." said Cassie.

"It's aways Charles." sigh Robin.

"He is so dead when I get out of here." angered Cassie.

"Hey don't be too hard on him he really does love you." said Robin.

"But takes things way too far sometimes." said Cassie.

"Forget about Charles.  The real reason that I called is because Lulu told me you were in the hospital and you had fibroid tumor.  Are you alright?" asked Robin.

"I fine Robin but there's something you really need to know. And I have to be honest with you." said Cassie.

"I'm listening." said Robin.

Then Tawanna came in and told Robin his class is starting in 5 minutes and he needs to hurry up.

"I have to go and get ready for class." said Robin.

"Robin you need to know the real reason why I'm in the hospital" said Cassie.

"You told me already.  As soon as class is over I'll call you back.  Gotta go" said Robin hanging up.

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"No, Robin!  Wait!!" Cassie cried, anxiously trying to get his attention.

But it was too late---as the dial tone sounded in her ear.  Frustrated, she tossed her cell phone onto the table next to her bed.

"Arrggghh!!!" she grunted angrily.

Just then, the door to her room was pushed open and she heard a familiar voice.

"Good morning, Cassie."

Then she saw the face.

"Mom----hi-----good morning," she stammered.

Jenn approached her bed and kissed her tenderly on the forehead.

"I've been so worried about you.  How are you feeling?" she asked, very concerned.

"I guess I'm okay," Cassie answered cautiously, not wanting to give away too much information.

Jenn smiled and sat on the side of the bed.  "I thought I'd come early so we could have breakfast together---just you and me," she explained.

"Oh.  That's nice," Cassie replied timidly, wondering what was up her mother's sleeve.

"Breakfast should be coming any minute now, right?" Jenn asked.

Cassie glanced at the clock.  "Yes, it usually comes around this time."

Jenn let out a sigh as they sat and waited for the breakfast tray to arrive.  "So Cassie.....how did this happen?" she finally asked.

"How did WHAT happen?" Cassie asked, feeling very defensive.

"THIS.  You..............here............in the hospital.  What happened, honey?" Jenn asked again.

Cassie kept her head down, not able to look her mother in the eye.
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Soon the nurse arrived with breakfast.

"Wow this breakfast looks delicious. Bacon, Eggs, waffles.  Are you sure we are at a hospital?" joked Jenn.

"I take it you're Cassie's mother?" nurse Debbie.

"I'm sure am." said Jenn.

"Good because I think she really needs you at this point.  She just doesn't know it yet.  So whatever it is just go easy on her." said Debbie.

"I will." said Jenn.

Soon the nurse left.

"Cassie I really do love you.  Whatever it is I will never love you less.  All I want is you to be honest with me." said Jenn.

"Alright mom I confess.  Please don't hate me but I don't have fibroid tumor.  I was pregnant and I suffer a miscarriaged.  Please don't hate me mom." said Cassie as she begin to cry.

Jenn started to feel bad so she console Cassie.

"Cassie I don't hate you.  I could never hate you." said Jenn as she console.

"But you are still mad at me." cried Cassie.

"I'm not mad at you Cassie but I am a bit disappointed.  I know you and Charles love each other deeply but you and Charles can't keep having unprotected sex.  You already have two kids and these are also rough times your father is out of work and I trying to make ends meet.  We trying get our house.  You have to start thinking about these things." said Jenn.

Cassie realize that Jenn thinks Charles is the father of her miscariaged baby so she decided not to tell her the whole story.

"Does Charles knows about this?" asked Jenn.

"No not yet." said Cassie.

"Well he is the father I think he's has the right to know." said Jenn.

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Cassie couldn't stand to lie to her mother, and knew she would find out sooner or later.

"Mom...I have a confesson to make, and please let me explain before you start with the advice,"mumbled Cassie.

"What is it Cassie?," said Jenn supicious.

"Charles...was not the father," muttered Cassie.

Jenn, filled with rage, held her tounge as she let Cassie finish.

"I know mom. I'm a horrible person, but he is. Robin was the father and know my life is a jumbled mess," cried Cassie as she began to break down.
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Jenn was totally caught off guard by the second piece news from Cassie. 

"I---I don't know what to say...." she admitted, dumbfounded.  "You and Robin kept insisting you were JUST FRIENDS."

"Mom......" Cassie whined.  "I know......I know....."

"So you were lying the whole time?" Jenn asked, still in disbelief.

"No, Mom!  We were just friends.  After what happened on the cruise, we never let anything like that happen again!  Well, at least not until recently!  And it was all my fault...."

Jenn started to regain her senses.

"I don't know if you can say it was all your fault, Cassie.  It takes two to tango.  Obviously, Robin isn't the angel everyone thinks he is....."

"Mom, I'm telling you, Robin didn't come on to me," Cassie confessed.  "I don't know what I was thinking OR doing, but it was me, Mom.  Totally me."

"Well I know this is gonna sound horrible, Cassie, but it's a good thing you lost the baby," Jenn remarked.

"That does sound horrible, Mom," Cassie agreed.

"Well just think how HORRIBLE things would be if you had the baby and the whole truth came out!  Think how devastated Charles would be!  And what about Lulu?  And if none of this was Robin's fault, don't you think he'd be just as devastated?  And let's not even mention YOUR FATHER!" Jenn ranted and raved.

"Mom, I don't need to hear this now....." Cassie said sadly.

Jenn sighed.  "I should have listened to Eddie and just let it go," she said disappointed.

"I'm sorry, Mom."

"Not as sorry as I am," Jenn replied as she gazed out of the window, deep in thought.
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Meanwhile back at Sea School Robin was busy staying after school so he can make up some of the work he missed his laugue of absence.  While he was working he was daydreaming about his life with Lulu and the family he always.  He dreamed of the perfect life until the teacher woke him.

"Hey Robin look like you have day dreamed yourself to another A+" said the teacher.

"Hey thanks." said Robin.

"But just because you're became a hero in a town doesn't mean you have to slack off.  You are one of the brightest students Robin and I don't want to fall behind." said the teacher.

"Don't worry I won't.  And I will try to pay more attention in class." said Robin.

"Good and I'm glad you are back." said the teacher.

"Me too." said Robin.

"Now I think you already caught up so I see no reason I you need to stay after school." saidd Teacher.

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"Cool!" Robin replied, happy he could leave the classroom.  He quickly got up from the desk, gathered his belongings and said goodbye to the Teacher.

As he walked down the corridor, he looked forward to spending time with Lulu.  Then his cell phone rang and he remembered that he promised he'd get back to Cassie.  He looked at the caller i.d., but it wasn't Cassie calling him.  It was a number he didn't recognize.

"Yo..." he answered.

"Robin?  Is that you?"

"Yes, who is this?" he inquired, not catching on to the female's voice yet.

"It's Jennifer Sutton," she replied.

"Oh!  Mrs. Sutton!  Sorry I didn't recognize your voice at first!" he apologized.  "Is everything alright?  I mean--it's not like you to call me...." he explained a little worried.

"No, it's not like me to call you, and NO everything is NOT alright!" Jenn answered abruptly.

Robin stopped walking down the corridor and stood still as he tried to absorb what she was saying.

"Mrs. Sutton--what's wrong?  Has Cassie gotten worse?" he asked, now very worried.

"That's putting it mildly, Robin," Jennifer answered.

"Mrs. Sutton, I don't mean any disrespect or anything, but you're buggin me out right about now.  Could you please just tell me what's wrong?"

"I just had a VERY disturbing conversation with my daughter, Robin.  She revealed things to me that made my hair stand on end."

"Like?" he asked cautiously as his head started to pound.

"Like-----how COULD you???" Jennifer exploded.  "We TRUSTED you, Robin--like a SON!  How could you betray me and Eddie like that?!"

Robin had never heard Jenn lose her cool the way she was losing it with him on the phone, and it unnerved him.

"Mrs. Sutton---I----I don't know what to say----I---I don't even know what you're talking about," he tried to explain.

Jennifer wasn't buying it.  "You know EXACTLY what I'm talking about.  But don't worry--I'll spell it out for you.  I'm talking about YOU and CASSIE and the so-called friendly relationship that you all PRETENDED to have!"

Robin's heart felt like it was in his throat.  Cassie promised she'd never tell about their night together and made him promise as well.  But it sounded like Mrs. Sutton knew all about it!  Still, Robin didn't want to chance saying anything to Jenn that might make things worse.

"Mrs. Sutton, I don't mean to be rude or anything, but I think I need to speak with your daughter," Robin said, ignoring Jenn's accusations.

"That's fine with me.  I just wanted to give you a piece of my mind!  I'm SO HURT, Robin---you have NO IDEA!" Jenn continued to scold him.

"I---I can't talk to you right now, Mrs. Sutton.  You're obviously way too upset and believe me if I've done anything to upset you---I sincerely apologize--but----well---I----just can't talk to you until we're both a little calmer.  I'm gonna hang up now, Mrs. Sutton---please try to understand," he said, feeling bad that he had to treat Jenn that way.

"You call Cassie RIGHT NOW--do you hear me?" Jenn demanded.

Robin pretended not to hear her and closed his phone.  His good mood was completely gone as he thought about what Jenn said.

But why would Cassie tell ANYONE such personal business and especially her MOTHER?  Robin wondered, baffled. 

Well, there's only one way to find out, he thought to himself.  He took a deep breath as he opened his phone and dialed Cassie's number.
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"Hello?" Cassie answered.

"Hey Cassie it's me Robin." he responded.

"Robin thank God.  I'm glad you're called." said Cassie.

"Yeah I wish I can say the same.  I really want to talk to you." said Robin in a serious tone.

"Yeah Robin that's why I called.  We really need to talk." said Cassie.

"Yeah but what I want to talk about is about friendship, loyalty, trust, & honesty...something that you lack of as of late." said Robin.

"What are you talking about?  We are friends.  We're special friends remember?" confused Cassie.

"Are we Cassie?  Are you really my friend or you just playing games with me the whole time?" upset Robin.

"Robin what's going on?  Why are you upset?" asked Cassie.

"I'm upset because your mother called me on her cell and went off on me." said Robin.

"WHAT?  SHE CALLED YOU?" shocked Cassie.

"Yeah and she's know about our little secret.  But my question how?" angered Robin.

"I sort of told her." said Cassie.

"WHAT OMG!!!! JESUS CHRIST CASSIE!!!!  I KNEW IT!!!" yelled Robin.

"Robin I couldn't lie.  I have to be honest." said Cassie.

"MAN, I SHOUD'VE KNOWN BETTER!  I KNEW SOMETHING LIKE THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPENED.  I KNEW I SHOUD HAVE NEVER SLEPT WITH YOU.  I SHOULD'VE THREW YOU OUT OF THE HOTEL WHEN I STILL HAD THE CHANCE BUT I LET YOU SEDUCE ME AND WENT ALONG WITH YOUR LITTLE GAME.  CASSIE HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO ME?  I THOUGHT YOU WERE MY FRIEND?" upset Robin.

"Robin you don't understand.  There was a reason why I told my mother." said Cassie.

"I UNDERSTAND YOU PERFECTLY!  YOU WENT TO THE HOTEL & SEDUCE ME, TOOK ADVANTAGE OF ME, MADE A PROMISE KNOWING YOU COULDN'T KEEP, THEN YOU TURNED ON ME BY HAVING A GUILTY CONSCIENCE! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT YOU HAVE DONE TO ME?" angered Robin.

"Robin I didn't take advantage, I love you and we both share something special together. That's why we're special friends." said Cassie.

"SPECIAL FRIEND MY ASS!!! IF YOU WERE REALLY MY FRIEND YOU WOULD'VE KEPT YOUR BIG MOUTH CLOSED AND PRETENDED IT NEVER HAPPENED.  I CAN'T BELIEVE I WAS THAT STUPID TO LET YOU TALK ME INTO SLEEPING WITH YOU.  ALL I WANT IS YOU TO STAY WITH CHARLES AND THE TWINS TO WORK THIS OUT BUT DECIDED TO DO THINGS YOUR WAYS AND ME BEING WEAK MINDED AS I AM LET YOU CON ME INTO SLEEPING WITH YOU.  NOW THANKS TO YOU PROBABLY WON'T COME HOME NOW BECAUSE YOUR MOTHER IS GOING TO TELL YOUR FATHER, YOUR GRANDFATHER (WHICH I'M GOING TO LOSE MY BUSINESS DEAL WITH BECAUSE OF YOU), MY MOTHJER, AND CHARLES BECAUSE I PROBABLY GOING TO HAVE A BOUNTY ON MY ASS." snapped Robin.

"Robin I'm sorry but there is reason why I told if you let me explain." cried Cassie.

"LOOK YOU EXPLAINED ENOUGH YOU POSSIBLY RUINED MY LIFE.  YOU SUPPOSE TO BE MY FRIEND.  I LOVE YOU, I DEFENDED YOU AT TIMES. MAYBE THEY TAY AND LIZZIE WERE RIGHT ABOUT YOU ALL ALONG.  YOU NOTHING BUT A SELFISH, INCONSIDERATE, SELFABSORBED, UNCARING PERSON." yelled Robin.

"Robin how could you say that to me?" cried Cassie.

"You suppose to be my special friend but what you are is a backstabbing traitor and I don't want to see you again and I don't want you at me and Lulu's wedding...THANKS ALOT FRIEND!!!" snapped Robin hanging up.

"Robin...ROBIN...ROBIN!!!" screamed Cassie.

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Meanwhile, back in Lincoln Heights, Monica Morgan is busy packing up her apartment and preparing to move into the nice home that she recently purchased with some of the money from her ex-husband's family.

As she wraps some dishes up and boxes them, she whistles to herself happily.

Life is finally going good.....she thought to herself.  My son is safe and sound back at Sea School and I can get out of this tiny apartment and start living the good life in a nice house-----like that Marla Antoni!

Soon her happy thoughts are interrupted by the ringing of her telephone.

"Hello?" she answered.

"Monica?  Hi........it' Jenn.  Jennifer Sutton."

"Hey!   Where've you been hiding stranger?  We were just starting to hit it off and I stopped hearing from you!" Monica replied happy to hear Jenn's voice.

"I know, and I'm sorry.  When Robin was hospitalized in Utah, so was Charles in San Diego, and now it's CASSIE believe it or not!   I'm out here at San Diego County Hospital right now," Jenn explained.

"What???  Oh my goodness!!!  I hope it's nothing too serious, Jenn!"

"I'm at my wits end, Monica and I just had to call you!" Jennifer blurted out trying to fight back the tears.

"And I'm glad you did!  You helped me out so much when you flew out to Utah with me to be with Robin, and if there's any way I can return the favor----just name it!"

Jennifer was relieved to hear the sincerity in Monica's voice.  "Thanks," she replied softly.

"Now tell me, Jenn, what in the world happened to Cassie?  And does Robin know?  You know how CLOSE they are!!!"

Jennifer sighed.

"Jenn???  Are you there???" Monica asked, worried that she got no response.

"Monica, I don't think any of us knew exactly HOW CLOSE Cassie and Robin really were----not until now."

"I'm not following you, Jenn," Monica admitted, puzzled.

Jenn siged again.  "This isn't easy, so let me just say it, and please Monica, whatever you do, don't get offended by what I'm about to say," she warned.

"Offended?  Jenn---what is this about?"

"It's about your son, Robin, and my daughter, Cassie, having an intimate, sexual relationship.  I recently found out because Cassie was hospitalized after she suffered a miscarriage, and she finally told me everything, including the fact that she may not ever be able to have any more children because of the miscarriage," Jenn explained.

This time, Monica stayed quiet on the phone, taking it all in.

"Monica?  Say something................please," Jenn coaxed her nervously.

Monica sighed.  "Okay, first off, I'm NOT offended.  I'm shocked just like you probably were, although I have to admit I was worried Robin and Cassie would cross the line, and I warned my son a few times.  But, like you, I gave them the benefit of the doubt and trusted them.  Now I see that was a big mistake."

"I called Robin and told him that I knew about them being more than friends, but I didn't tell him about the miscarriage.  I just told him to call Cassie," Jenn informed.

"Well I hope you set him straight, Jenn," Monica added, annoyed with her son.

"I did.  I just hope I wasn't too hard on him...."

"Jenn, please!!!  You have EVERY RIGHT to be an angry mom.  Poor Cassie.......  how's she doing?"

"Not good.  I checked in on her awhile ago and she's just crying her eyes out.  I'm not even sure if she spoke with Robin yet---I can't get a straight answer out of her!" Jenn replied, frustrated.

"Well, I'll be talking to Robin, that's for sure.  I just need to calm me down first.  But let me just say this, Jenn---I am SO SORRY this happened.  I know Robin and Cassie aren't CHILDREN anymore, but Robin will always be my child to me.  And I'm so sorry my child caused your child any heartache.  As a woman, I know how Cassie must be feeling right now---I know she must be devastated.  And  if she told Robin about her miscarriage, I'm hoping that he treated her kindly and with sensitivity.  That's the least he could do at a time like this!"

"Yes, I agree," Jenn responded.

"Do you accept my apology on behalf of my son?" Monica asked.

"I do.  Robin's a good guy--I know that.  I think we all just put him up too high on a pedestal.  Afterall, he's only human..."

"Human or not, my son knows right from wrong.  Sleeping with the girlfriend and mother of someone else's children---that's dead wrong!  He knows that!"

"Well I appreciate your support, Monica," Jenn told her.

"No, THANK YOU, Jenn, for letting me know what's going on.  And I'll get back in touch with you," she promised.

When the telephone conversation was over, Monica returned to her box of dishes, took one out, unwrapped it and angrily smashed it on the floor.
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"DAMMIT ROBIN!!! WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING?  I COULD JUST KILL HIM RIGHT ABOUT NOW." angered Monica.

Meanwhile back at Marla's house Eddie went downstairs to get some coffee until he saw Dana in short night shirt and flip flops making coffee.  Eddie started to stare at Dana's purple panties and legs.

"Hey morning Eddie I'm surprised you are up this early.  If I didn't known I would throw on a robe." embarrassed Dana.

"No I don't mind.  It doesn't bother me one bit." said Eddie.

"You're sure?" asked Dana.

Eddie was sweating and nervous.

"I'll make us some breakfast." said Eddie.

"Oh no you better let me.  I have heard about your cooking." said Dana.

"Yeah and while you do that I'll take a shower...a cold shower." said Eddie rushing upstairs.

"A cold shower?" confused Dana.

Meanwhile at Lund's house Sage was get a bunch of buquet of flowers from Danny.  Sage was impress until she saw some roses and note with CD in it.  It was from Tay.  The note says he's going to be famous and listen to his hit CD.

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Sage chuckled to herself.  "Famous!  Yeah....RIGHT!  Keep dreaming little boy...." she thought to herself as she tossed the CD onto her dresser.

Lund poked his head into her bedroom.  "Hey Sage, I made breakfast for us.  Come on before it gets cold," he urged.

"Sure Dad.  I'll be right there," she answered.

"Danny got you some nice flowers!  Roses are expensive!" Lund remarked impressed.

"They're not from Danny, they're from Tay Sutton," she told him as she turned to follow him to breakfast.

"Tay?  Poor kid---he's delusional!" Lund joked.

Sage rolled her eyes.  "Tell me about it!  He thinks he's gonna be a music star!  He even sent me a CD!"

"Wow!  Eddie had better take control of that boy," Lund remarked.  "I wonder does he know about this?"

"The father's are always the last to know, Dad---about everything!" Sage said.

"Is that so?" Lund asked, insulted.  "Well thanks for telling me.  I'll make sure I've got Eddie's back.  Us father's have to stick together!"

Sage sucked her teeth as she sat down for breakfast.  "Yeah.....WHATEVER, Dad...."
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Meanwhile back at Marla's Tay and Jeron was getting to head over to Rueben to record a new song.

"Hey Jeron are you ready to become famous?" asked excited Tay.

"You damn right lets make that money you." said Jeron.

"Alright lets do this." said Jeron.

"Hey where you two off?" asked Lizzie.

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"My friend---RASHAAD--he's got his own studio and he's gonna help us cut a record," Tay answered quickly before Jeron spilled the beans.

"Rashaad?  I never heard of him before," Lizzie remarked.

"There's alot you don't know about me," Tay replied obnoxiously.

"Oh PUH-LEEEEZE, like you're so DEEP!" Lizzie said, annoyed.

Jeron laughed at the two of them bickering.

"You wanna come?" he offered Lizzie.  "We could use a female back-up singer."

"NO!!!!" Tay objected loudly, losing his cool.

"Daaaang!!!!  Why you actin all stupid, yo???" Jeron asked.

"Yeah, Tay, what's your problem?  You know I got pipes," Lizzie bragged.

"Lulu's got pipes--NOT YOU!" Tay corrected her.  "I just don't want Lizzie in on this," he explained to Jeron.

"But we could really use a female's voice, yo," Jeron insisted.

Tay pulled Jeron over to the side away from Lizzie so he could talk privately.

"Look, I don't want Lizzie to see Rashaad.  I'll explain it to you later," he whispered.

Jeron looked puzzled but went along.  "Sorry, Lizzie---maybe next time," he apologized.

Lizzie looked insulted.  "Maybe KENDRA is free!" she said, her feelings hurt.

"Hey.....that's not such a bad idea!" Tay replied happier.

"Word!" Jeron agreed as he took out his cell phone and looked up Kendra's number.

Lizzie sucked her teeth and stomped away to her bedroom, slamming the door behind her.
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"Yo Dawg I think we hurt Lizzie's feelings." said Jeron.

"Man, please I ain't worry about her." said Tay.

"Tay I'm serious I think you were really rude to her." said Jeron.

"Look I know Lizzie my whole life.  Not once she has been nice or did anything nice for me.  There's no reason why I should be nice.  And do you realize I did alot of nice things for Lizzie and not once she said thank you." said Tay.

Lizzie overheard the convosation.

"Why that lowdown liar!!" angered Lizzie.

"Don't you think you overreacting just a bit?" asked Jeron.

"Hell no!  I have alot ridin' on this and don't need my mean ass sister ruin it for me.  So are you in or out?" asked Tay.

"Hey you know I'm down." said Jeron.

"Alright lets do this then." said Tay.

So Tay and Jeron left the house and called Kendra to tell her the news.  Meanwhile Dana was walking through the hallway and heard Lizzie throwing a temper tamptrum.

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Dana stood by Lizzie's door and listened as Lizzie threw things around in her room, screaming.
When she couldn't take it anymore she took a chance and slowly opened the door, almost catching a shoe in the eye.  Fortunately her quick Lincoln Heights reflexes kicked in and she ducked just in the nick of time.

"Giiiirrrrrrrrrlllllllllllll.....what in the WORLD is wrong with YOU???" Dana asked, shocked at Lizzie's behavior.

"Dana!!  I didn't know you were standing there! I'm sorry--did I hurt you?!" Lizzie asked as she saw Dana holding her shoe.

"I'm fine--I know how to get outta the way--believe that!  Anyway, what's wrong with you?" she asked as she stepped over the mess Lizzie made and sat on her bed.

"Tay just gets on my nerves is all..." Lizzie muttered as she picked up some of the mess thrown on the floor.

"Is that it???  Nothing else?" Dana asked unconvinced.

She looked up at Dana, knowing she couldn't put anything over on her and sighed.  "No....there's more," she admitted.

"Well??" Dana persisted.

"Lately whenever me and Jeron try to get together someone or something gets in the way.  I don't think he likes me like he used to," Lizzie said sadly.

"I think he does," Dana disagreed.  "Anyway, there's not a whole lot of competition from what I can see."

"Yes there is.  A girl named KENDRA!" Lizzie complained.

"You call that competition?  ONE GIRL???  Shoot---when I was young I had to fight the girls off like flies there were so many of them after my boyfriend, and you're complaining about ONE little ole girl, Lizzie?  Shame on you!  You can handle that--I know you can!" Dana said giving her a pep talk.

"I hope you're right..." Lizzie said, still unsure.

"Listen, if you don't believe me, why don't you get another opinion?" Dana suggested.

"Like who?  Mom????" Lizzie asked, dreading the thought.

Dana laughed a little.  "No silly!  When we spent the summer at the beach house and you were having trouble deciding between Jeron and Johnny (God rest his soul) who helped you out?"

Lizzie thought awhile.  "I was talking to everybody about that, Dana.  Cassie...Lulu...Robin....Chuck...." Lizzie recalled.

"So?  There you go---take your pick.  But if I were you, I'd call Lulu," Dana advised.

Lizzie smiled.  "Yeah.....Lulu's the best!  Sometimes I wish she was my sister instead of Cassie!"

"Now, now, none of that!  Don't be hatin on my girl, Cassie.  She's hasn't been feeling too well lately, so I think Lulu is the better choice at the moment," Dana explained.

"You don't think she'd mind if I called her?" Lizzie asked still uncertain.

Dana gave Lizzie a playful shove.  "Girl you know Lulu LOVES YOU!  She'd be tickled pink to give you advice on your love life!!"

Lizzie regained her confidence.  "Thanks, Dana!  I'll call her right now," Lizzie said picking up her cell phone.

"Don't mention it," Dana replied as she left the room.

Meanwhile, as Jeron and Tay traveled to Reuben's studio, Tay explained the real reason he didn't want Lizzie along.

"My Dad doesn't want me hanging with Reuben, and Lizzie will tell."

"Hold up, hold up.  Are we going to see REUBEN or RASHAAD?" Jeron asked, confused.

"It's the same person."

"Oh.  Okaaaaaaaaay........" Jeron replied, still confused.
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"Is Kendra coming?" asked Tay.

"Yeah she be there.  I gave her direction to get here.  She says she has to take care of some business with her brother." said Jeron.

"Yeah right?" said Tay rollin' his eyes.

"What does that suppose to mean?" asked Jeron.

"It just that Kendra be lying all the time.  Just in case she's a no show we better start without her." said Tay.

"Tay will you stop worrying Kendra will be here." said Jeron.

"I hope you're right." said Tay.

Meanwhile back at Sea School Lulu got a call from Lizzie.

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"Lizzie?????  I can't believe you're calling me!!!" Lulu squealed.

"Oh---is it a bad time?  I'm sorry, Lulu. I can call back later," Lizzie apologized.

"What???!!!  Don't you DARE hang up!!!  Of COURSE this is a good time!!!  I'm just SURPRISED is all---that you would call ME of all people!!!" Lulu continued to gush.

"But why, Lulu?  We're friends...." Lizzie replied, clueless.

"Yeah, girl, we're friends!!!  ABSOLUTELY!!!  I'm just glad YOU realize it!"

"I've always liked you, Lulu, but I just thought of you as CASSIE'S friend that I liked too."

"No way!!!  I'm CASSIE'S friend and I'm YOUR friend--got it?!" Lulu insisted.

Lizzie giggled.  "Yeah!  I got it!  Thanks, Lulu!" she said, relieved.

"So what's goin down, girl?  What's the 411?" Lulu teased.

"You helped me out once before with Jeron---remember?" Lulu asked.

"Uh-huh....I remember!  But I wanted you to pick Johnny--REMEMBER?  Jeron was too street for you, girl!"

"Yeah, but he's still alive.  Johnny was the geek and he's the one that's........well.........dead," Lizzie remarked sadly.

"Yeah.......poor Johnny......  So I guess you made the right choice after all," Lulu admitted.

"But I'm having trouble with Jeron and I need some advice," Lizzie went on.

"Talk to me, Lizzie!" Lulu said, anxious to help.

"I think he's starting to like someone else and I don't know what to do about it."

"Is that all?  I thought he was beatin on you or something!"

"No, Jeron wouldn't do that....."

"Good!  Glad to hear it!   Anywayz........this is what you do.  First off, do you know the girl? Lulu asked.

"I know who she is, that's about it.  Why?"

"Cool.  That's even better--you don't know her that well.  Sooooo what you do is, you GET TO KNOW HER.  Become her friend.  Start hanging with her until the two of you are pretty tight," Lulu advised.

"And WHY am I doing that?" Lizzie asked, dumbfounded.

"Because you keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.  And home girl is the enemy!  You gotta be close to her, know her every move, so you can be way ahead of her.  Works EVERY time!" Lulu assured her.

"Yeah?" Lizzie asked, surprised the solution was so simple.

"Yep.  Trust me on this one," Lulu advised.

"Okay, Lulu......if YOU say so......" Lizzie reluctantly agreed.

"Cool!  And you'd BETTER lemme know how things are goin!!" she said in a threatening voice.

Lizzie laughed.  "Speaking of how things are going........would you happen to know how's my sister?  I haven't spoken to her in a LONG TIME!"

"Hmmmmm.......that's A WHOLE NOTHER STORY, GIRL..." Lulu began.<