Favorite Star

[Raevengeance]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0603/AngelEyesJBT/FaveStar/FaveStarBanner.gif

Disclaimer: This story is based partly on reality and the real lives of 98 Degrees and partly on my imagination. I am in no way stating that this is how the person who inspired the characters would act in real life, as I have not met and spent any time with any of them (with the exception of a 5-minute meeting with Jeff on 2/13/04).

[Raevengeance]

INTRODUCTION/PROLOGUE:

98 Degrees had been on hiatus since their appearance with Luther Vandross and Usher on Sept 10, 2001 at the huge Michael Jackson special in New York City. All four members had been preparing to leave New York when the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center occurred. Drew luckily was with the one he loved, as Lea had accompanied the guys to New York.

After witnessing the planes as they crashed into the WTC, Nick phoned his long time girlfriend, Jessica Simpson, although they were in the middle of a 'break' which was supposedly to allow her time to grow up since there was such an age gap between the two of them. Nick had always believed that they were 'meant to be' however after seeing her allow her record label manipulate her into breaking up with him to allow her to have the image of being 'available' for her male fans, he wondered. Sony wanted her to go for the 'sex kitten' image as witnessed by her posing for Maxim and FHM, as well as the suggestive choreography they came up with for her first single from the 2nd album.

As the shock and horror of September 11th began wearing off, the group got together and decided that they all wanted some time away from the hectic schedule to allow them to spend time with their families and pursue other opportunities that had been offered to them.

During their hiatus, Justin returned home to Cinci and began working on the 'back side' of the music business, working as a manager for some local artists who were trying to become established. Drew began taking acting cl[arse]es. Among his acting credits during the break were playing Zeke on Sabrina, The Teenage Witch and a leading role in the independent film, The Wisher (which was later renamed Spliced).

Nick, scared and nervous about never finding his true love, went back and began dating Jessica again as he began working on a solo album. He eventually gave up on his dreams of finding true love and proposed to Jessica while she was in Hawaii for the 2002 ProBowl. Even though he gave up the thoughts of finding his true love, she still visited him in his dreams every night, making him wonder if he was completely crazy. He hoped that she was real, and that he would somehow find this mysterious, dark-skinned and dark-haired beauty before the wedding. As October came closer and closer, he continued to only see her in his dreams. Even as he took his new bride on their honeymoon, he dreamed of this mystery woman, and wondered why he wasn't satisfied with the woman he had married.

Jeff truly enjoyed the time he was able to spend at home with his new bride (they had married just prior to the start of the Revelation tour) and his daughter Alyssa. After the birth of their second child, Jeffrey Jr., in October 2001, he began recording songs he had written about his life since 98 Degrees began, most of which focused on his wife and his children. He had originally recorded them for his personal collection only, but as the hiatus of the group continued, he decided to let the fans in on these very personal songs. Rather than allowing some major record label dictate what songs would and would not make the album, Jeff chose to release the album by funding it himself.

To promote the solo project, Jeff began doing mini-concerts for various charitable organizations in the spring of 2003 as the finishing touches were being put on the album which would ultimately be released. One of his selected appearances was for a benefit for the Children's Miracle Network in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The hospital had decided to host a variety night, and when Jeff was contacted about the possibility of appearing, he readily agreed.

For the benefit, Gundersen-Lutheran Medical Center (the area's CMN affiliate) had employees volunteer to help out with catering the dinner (serving food), and [arse]isting the various performers as they prepared to do their performance. Rachel had volunteered to help out in whatever way she could because the Children's Miracle was a good cause. She found out early on that she would be helping one of the performers, but she wasn't sure who she'd be helping out. When she heard the news that one of her all-time favorite singers was going to be appearing, she hoped that she would be able to view his performance.

As the day of the benefit approached, volunteers were given their [arse]ignments for the day, and Rachel nearly broke down. She only hoped that she could complete the [arse]ignment without making a fool of herself or causing any embarr[arse]ment for the organization. She became extremely nervous and her nerves just became worse and worse as the day came closer.

[Raevengeance]

Saturday morning arrived, and the nerves in Rachel's stomach seemed to grow 10 times worse. She arrived at the center at the time she was told to be there to [arse]ist with the setup until her scheduled [arse]ignment began. As her part of the setup crew, she was responsible for placing the name cards at each setting for the tables which had been pre-sold according to the seating chart that had been prepared. Each entertainer at the benefit was being provided 2 free seats for the meal. As she set out Jeff's two name cards, she thought it was strange that all his second card said was "guest of Jeff Timmons" while all the others had the name of the person attending with the performer. As she placed the last one on the tables that had been pre-sold, she was called over to meet someone.

"Rachel, this is Jeff Timmons. Make sure he gets anything he needs tonight."

"Yes, Ma'am," Rachel replied. "It's a pleasure meeting you, Mr. Timmons. If you need anything at all, please let me know."

"I need something."

"What is it?"

"Call me Jeff, please. Mr. Timmons is just too formal."

"Alright, Jeff. I just need to say this now - I love 98 Degrees, and your music is awesome. I'm really looking forward to getting your album."

"Well, I think that can be arranged," Jeff said reaching into his duffel bag and pulling out a demo copy of the CD. "Would you like it signed?"

"How much do I owe you for this?"

"Nothing - now, can you show me where I'm supposed to put my things?"

"Sure, let me check to find out for sure where you're supposed to do that. You're the first of the performers to arrive so I'm not positive."

"Alright," Jeff answered as they went to find the director of the event who apologized for the oversight in not giving Rachel the information earlier. "So, now what do we do?" Jeff asked as he stuck his duffel bag in the dressing room.

"Well, I suppose I could take you and show you around town," Rachel suggested. "Maybe go by the hospital so you can see some of what the funds from tonight are helping fund."

"That sounds like a good idea. Let me get changed into something a little more comfortable and I'll meet you back out here in 10 minutes."

"Sure, I'll go find out exactly when you need to be back here then while you're changing."

"Alright," Jeff replied as Rachel left him alone. "What the hell??" he asked himself when she was gone. "Why do I feel like I'm a love-struck teenager again?"

As Rachel waited for Jeff to come back out of the dressing room, she wondered why her shyness hadn't overtaken her as it usually did. She also hoped that as she talked with Jeff during the short tour of the city, she would be permitted to see photos of his two children. Thinking about his kids, made her realize something - he wasn't wearing his wedding ring, something that hadn't really come off his hand since early in the Revelation tour.

"Hey, I'm ready."

"Well, the sound equipment is ready if you'd like to get a sound check done now to get your mic levels set for tonight," Rachel answered, not sure if he'd want to wait until getting back to take care of that or not.

"Can that wait until later?"

"Sure…it was just an idea, and I wasn't sure if you'd want to wait or not. We just need to be back by 3:30 if you want to wait to do it."

"Alright, we'll remember that," Jeff said.

As Rachel led him to her car, she became lost in her thoughts, and didn't hear the question that Jeff had asked. When he finally got her attention he said, "Look, if you really don't want to be with me, I'm sure that I can find something else to do."

"No…I'm sorry, Jeff. My mind just zones occasionally."

"Well, you told me that you're a fan - isn't there anything you want to know about me or the group?"

"I don't want to bother you with silly questions you've answered a million times before."

"Well, this silence is horrible, so please, ask me anything."

"Ummm…well…this is slightly personal, and you don't have to answer me, I'll understand if you choose to ignore the question, but why aren't you wearing your wedding ring?"

"I'll answer it - on 2 conditions."

"And they would be??" Rachel asked when Jeff was silent.

"One - this does not go beyond you, I don't want to read this on the message board tomorrow morning or anything like that, and two - you answer a personal question about yourself."

"I can agree to those."

"Alright, well, Trisha and I are currently separated. She became spoiled having me around all the time since we went on our hiatus, and now that I'm back working, she didn't like it. Now, the question for you - why isn't there a ring on your finger?"

[Raevengeance]

"You don't hold anything back do you? But to answer the question - it's because I haven't found a man special enough to put one there."

"How many have tried to measure up?"

"Hey! That's two questions!"

"You don't have to answer it," Jeff said sheepishly, unsure why he was trying to figure out what kind of competition he'd have to win this young woman's heart.

"It's ok…the answer is none. I never dated in high school or college, and once I got out of school, it has been nearly impossible for me to meet guys, so now I'm stuck alone."

"I'm sure you'll find the right guy, someday," Jeff replied, sensing she was somewhat upset by her last revelation, yet somewhat glad that he wouldn't have any competition if he found out she was interested in him.

"So, since you asked me a second question, do I get to ask you another one?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"Well…it's umm…more than one kind of, and if you don't want to answer, you don't have to…" Rachel started.

"Alright, what are the questions?"

"Well…don't think I'm psychotic or anything, cuz I'm not…I'm just interested in names…so ummm…I was wondering what your kids' middle names were…and if I could possibly see pictures of them both…Alyssa looked adorable in the My Everything video and the screen captures I saw of the infomercial you and Trisha were part of gave me a glimpse of your baby boy, but they're older now…"

"Sure," Jeff answered, pulling his wallet out. "I love showing off pictures of my kids - when I know that they aren't going to be exploited. This is Alyssa's most recent picture, and her middle name is Renee. And here is little J's - he's a true junior - Jeffrey Brandon, but we all call him J."

"Jeff, you have two beautiful children…they are definitely blessed to have a father like you and I know you feel blessed to have them as children, I can see it in your eyes."

"Yeah, sometimes I wish I had more time to spend with them, but I do what I can do…I needed to get back to work, and I'm trying to keep my schedule relatively open so I can get home to see them as often as possible."

"So, did you want to ask me something else?"

"Nothing too personal, just tell me a bit about yourself."

"I hate that question!" Rachel growled.

"Well, try - for me?"

"MEN! But I'll see if I can come up with something. I was born and raised here. I lived down in Tennessee for a little while. I'm a huge sports fan - especially Packer football and NASCAR racing…and I'm really shy until I get to know someone."

"You and Justin would probably get along great talking about NASCAR, and what guy doesn't want a girl who enjoys football, no one to complain about football on Sunday afternoon."

"Maybe we would, but other than that, well, I have a Bachelor's degree in education - but it's a waste since I couldn't find a job within 3 years of graduating."

"Why's that?"

"I couldn't pay my bills on a substitute teacher's salary - so I was working part-time in fast food, but I'd end up working until midnight or 1 o'clock and then couldn't get myself out of bed if I did get a call in the morning to sub somewhere. And you can't really maintain a license beyond the 5 year period unless you're teaching or have a long-term sub job because most cl[arse]es require that you develop and implement projects in your cl[arse]room."

"I see."

"So, anyway…is there anything else you would like to know about me?" Rachel asked, before another uncomfortable silence took over.

"Well, I'll ask if something else comes up."

"Alright, and here we are," Rachel said, turning towards the main parking lot of the hospital.

"Rachel - let's not stop. Show me around town some more, please," Jeff asked, not wanting to be distracted from learning more about this woman who made him feel like he was a gangly teenager again.

[Raevengeance]

"Alright…is there anything you are particularly interested in seeing?"

"Whatever your pretty little heart wants to show me," Jeff answered, still confused about what he was feeling. He had just recently separated from his wife and the mother of his children whom he still loved, but here he was acting like a teenager who was head-over-heals in love with someone, Rachel, whom he had just met.

"Well, I think I'll start with the one place everyone takes guests from out of town, and then we can play it by ear."

"Sounds like a great idea."

As they reached the parking lot on top of Granddad's Bluff and got out of the car, they noticed that no one else seemed to be around as they walked towards the overlook where you could see the entire city. "Well, this is La Crosse," Rachel said as they stood looking over the city.

"Beautiful."

"Yeah, it really is - sometimes you forget just how much when you don't look at it from this vantage point though."

"Actually, I was talking about you."

"Me?? I think you must be mistaken or jet-lag is getting to you. I'm anything but beautiful."

"No, I am neither mistaken nor jet-lagged," Jeff replied as he leaned towards her for a kiss which she avoided by turning her head to the side. "Why did you do that?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing, Jeff. Look, I know of you; I don't know you. I…I don't want my first kiss to not mean something."

"Don't you get it?"

"Get what?"

"Nothing," Jeff lied. "So are you ready to show me more of this beautiful city?"

"Sure."

"Rachel - look, I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable. I didn't mean to do that."

"It's ok, but I'd rather get to know you before something like that happens again, alright?"

"Alright, I can understand that, so what do you want to know about me?" Jeff asked slightly surprised at what had just happened.

[Raevengeance]

As Rachel drove back towards downtown La Crosse, she got up the courage to ask the question that had been nagging her since she first started to help with the setup for the dinner. "So, Jeff, who is your guest for the dinner tonight?"

"Actually, I don't have one. Since Trisha and I split up, I haven't really been seeing anyone else so it's kind of hard to get someone to travel with me to go to something like this."

"Oh, I see."

"Hey - will you be my date for dinner tonight?"

"Say what???"

"I asked if you would like to have dinner with me."

"Well…"

"You don't want to, I understand."

"Actually, I'd love to, but I think that I'm supposed to be doing something else during the meal."

"Well, find out when we get back to the center. So anyway - where are you taking me now?"

"Well, basically, the only other place that's remotely interesting is Riverside Park, since I showed you the six-pack."

"OK - then maybe we could stop to get something for lunch right now?"

"Sure, what are you hungry for?"

"Well - what do you want?"

"We could do pizza, Italian, fast food, or traditional American. I'd offer Chinese, but then I'd starve because I don't eat that."

"What would YOU like?"

"Well, actually, chili dogs are sounding good to me."

"Then let's go where you can get some."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive, so where are we going?"

"Coney Island has the best right now. I wish there was a SONIC up here, maybe someday there will be for me though."

"Could well be, they seem to be expanding all over the place."

"Yeah. Oh, Jeff, I realized, I have to turn down your dinner invitation even if I don't have something else that I need to be doing."

"Why?"

"I don't have anything that is appropriate to wear."

"Then let's go shopping to get you something."

"I can't afford anything right now."

"My treat - I want to eat you."

"Excuse me?"

"What?"

"You want to do what??"

"Have supper with you."

"That was NOT what you said, Jeffrey Brandon Timmons!"

"Fine, I said eat with you - what's the deal?"

"That wasn't what you said either."

"Then what did I say that you are demanding an explanation for?"

"You said, and I quote, 'I want to eat you'; there was absolutely NO mention of the word WITH in your sentence."

"It was just a slip," Jeff said hoping to cover for the huge gaffe he had made.

"It better have been! But I couldn't accept a gift like that from you anyway."

"Come on. You don't want me to be lonely at supper do you?"

"There are six other people at your table, you'll hardly be lonely."

"I'll be a 7th wheel then. Come on, please. Don't make me be the only one at the table without a date."

[Raevengeance]

"Jeff…"

"Please. It will give us a better chance to get to know one another," Jeff said looking at her with sad eyes.

"Damn you and those puppy dog eyes you've got!"

"That means you'll do it??" Jeff asked hopefully.

"Yes - your eyes can get me every time."

"Thank you, thank you, thank you. You do NOT know how much this means to me."

"Yeah. Ummm…you did say you were going to be buying me an outfit to wear, right?"

"Yep, let's go get it after we eat."

"OK. But I think it will be easier to eat at the mall instead of downtown and then going to the mall," Rachel said, changing direction and heading towards the local mall. "Just let me warn you - this mall isn't like the ones in the big cities - we've got a Sears, Marshall Fields, and JC Penny's and then some of the smaller specialty stores, but nothing like what you'd see in LA or New York or anything like that."

After a quick lunch in the food court, the pair went towards CJ Banks to see what could be found there, unfortunately, Rachel didn't see anything that she liked, so they went onto Casual Corner.

"Rachel - try this on for me, please?" Jeff said holding up a blue-sparkly dress.

"That is sooooooo not me, Jeff."

"Come on, I think it would look great on you…the color would accentuate your eyes, which are breathtaking."

"Fine - just to make you happy - but I think this pair of dress pants and blouse will work much better."

"Who's paying for it though?"

"That's blackmail! I don't wear dresses!"

"Wear it for me? Please?" Jeff asked, hoping he had again managed to get his 'puppy dog eyes' working to convince her to say yes.

[Raevengeance]

"Fine, I guess I don't have much of a choice now, do I?"

"Well…"

"You do realize this is going to require new shoes and hosiery as well, don't you?"

"Of course I do."

"Fine - let me see if they have it in my size," Rachel said, silently hoping that they wouldn't so she could keep her idea of dress pants with a nice blouse. After finding the dress in her size, she went to the dressing room to try it on, surprised because it was too big when trying on her usual size. After a sales clerk went to get the next smaller size for her to try on, and it fit perfectly she stepped out of the fitting room to allow Jeff to give his opinion.

"Oh my… Rachel, you look more beautiful than I imagined in that dress."

"I'm sure you say that to every woman you meet."

"I do NOT!"

"Yeah, that's true - you're usually telling them how good they look OUT of their clothing."

"Rachel! STOP THAT!"

"Sorry. Let me change out of this so I can get my other clothes on and we can go find shoes for me to wear."

"Alright," Jeff replied as he went to look at some of the accessories they had in the store while Rachel changed into her own clothes. When Rachel re-emerged from the dressing room, Jeff was waiting, credit-card in hand to make the purchase.

"Thank you for this, Jeff," Rachel said as the clerk bagged her purchase.

"For what?? The dress?"

"Well - more for making me feel like I'm special. I don't get that often, and it's nice, especially coming from someone who could be spending his time with someone who is so much more beautiful than I am."

"I can't think of anyone more beautiful than you are - and you deserve to feel special - I'm just sorry that no one else has made you feel that way."

After finding the perfect shoes to compliment the dress, the pair made a quick stop to pick up a pair of nylons for Rachel to wear that evening before heading back to the center for Jeff to complete his sound check and then get ready for the evening. After hearing Jeff sing Whisper That Way, Rachel was moved to tears and she remembered exactly why Jeff had always been her favorite member of 98 Degrees.

[Raevengeance]

"So…what did you think?" Jeff asked as they went to his hotel room to wait for the dinner portion of the benefit to start.

"It was beautiful - it reminded me why you were always, deep down, my favorite member of 98 Degrees."

"I was?? Thank you."

"Yeah - and well - between your voice and a smile sent in my direction at the Revelation tour concert in Madison it cemented it for me."

"Hold it - did you send a card to me through a friend at the concert at the Illinois State Fair that summer?" Jeff asked excitedly.

"Yeah, I did, why?" Rachel asked slightly confused.

"I just wanted to say thank you. That card meant a lot to me."

"I'm glad you actually got it. I just felt like I needed to let you know how much you had touched my life through your music and that smile."

"It's always good to hear that…and I've still got the little pocket card you included with the card as well - I carry it in my wallet."

"You're kidding, right?"

"Nope - not at all," Jeff replied.

"DADDY!!!!!!" A young girl yelled as she ran towards Jeff followed closely by a young boy and Jeff scooped the girl into his arms.

"Alyssa, sweetie, what are you doing here?" Jeff asked as he hugged his young daughter.

[Raevengeance]

"Came see you," she said excitedly as 'Baby J' tugged on Rachel's pants wanting her to pick him up.

"He wants you to hold him," Jeff said noticing what his son was doing while Rachel stood there trying to figure out exactly what was happening, although Jeff was confused as normally little Jeffie didn't want anything to do with any stranger - yet today he went right up to a stranger.

"Jeff - your kids are more adorable in person than in the pictures you showed me."

"Thanks," Jeff answered still trying to figure out how exactly his two young children had arrived at this stop of his promotional journey.

"Jeff! Can you find a babysitter for the dinner tonight?" a young blonde woman asked coming out of one of the rooms on the floor.

"TRISHA?!?!? What the…are you doing here?" he asked, stopping himself before swearing in front of his children.

"I noticed that your appearance here included dinner for two, and I know how you hate eating alone."

"But why would I want YOU here?"

"I AM your wife."

"I think I'm going to let you two work this out," Rachel said feeling guilty seeing this fight which was obviously very personal in nature.

"No, I invited YOU to dinner for a reason," Jeff said noticing his manager Michael coming out of another room. "Mike, can you watch the kids for a few minutes for me?"

"Sure thing," Mike said before saying hello to both Trisha and Rachel and leading the children into his room as Jeff pushed Trisha and pulled Rachel into his own suite of rooms for the evening.

"Rachel - this is my FORMER wife, Trisha Speery-Timmons."

"It's nice to meet you," Rachel said, trying to be polite and understand what was going on around her.

"I can't say the same to you, considering you broke up my marriage."

"HOLD IT! Trisha, YOU filed the divorce papers - so YOU broke up OUR marriage because you couldn't handle me doing what I LOVE doing."

[Raevengeance]

"You were cheating on me - and always gone!" Trisha countered.

"HOLD IT! I just met Jeff TODAY! Don't go accusing ME of breaking up your marriage."

"Right - whatever you say," Trisha said, rolling her eyes. "Jeff Junior would not have allowed a total stranger to pick him up, let alone go up to a stranger and ask to be picked up. You have met the kids before today!"

"Trisha - him doing that surprised me too," Jeff interjected, "but he has never met her before today - I hadn't met her until today. Ask Alyssa - you know that she wouldn't lie to you about it."

"I plan on it - but anyway - your mistress can watch the kids while we have supper."

"Didn't you hear me? I am NOT having supper with you! You were NOT invited here and I am NOT spending the evening with you!"

"And I am absolutely, positively, in no way Jeff's mistress!" Rachel added.

"Now Trisha - you can attend the benefit tonight - but you will be paying your OWN admission fee and YOU will find someone to baby-sit for us."

"How?? I don't know anyone in this god-forsaken city!"

"I suggest that you check at the front desk if you insist on attending then," Jeff suggested, "and make sure you have your OWN room for tonight because you are NOT staying in mine!"

"Not to worry, I wasn't planning on staying with you in the first place, but our children WILL be!"

"Not a problem for me," Jeff replied.

"You're going to cheat on me with our children in the room??" Trisha asked, surprised that he had no problems having their children stay with him.

"NO! First of all, we're DIVORCED - so I CAN'T cheat on you. Secondly, I wouldn't do anything with a woman I wasn't married to with the children in the room."

[Raevengeance]

"Fine! If I find out that this ***** stayed with you though, I swear I will take you back to court and get your visitation order changed so you only have SUPERVISED visits with the kids!"

"That wouldn't work and you know it!"

"I'M NOT A *****!" Rachel protested at the same time.

"Just watch me," Trisha fumed as she stormed out of the room.

"Thank you for coming in here with me, Rachel," Jeff said as the door slammed behind Trisha.

"Well, you didn't leave me much of a choice since you PULLED me along with you. I'm just sorry that I heard so much of a very personal fight between the two of you. I just don't understand why you wanted me here to hear that."

"Trish has tried accusing me of abusing both her and the children in the past - it was ALL completely refuted - by her family no less, but I won't be in a room alone with her anymore."

"I guess I can understand now, and I am sorry I witnessed that. I know you like to keep your personal life private."

"Rachel - it doesn't bother me that you witnessed that. If I had wanted, I could have had Mike come in with me and asked you to watch the kids, especially since JJ was so open to letting you hold him."

"I still feel guilty…but…like everything else you've told me today - it's not going to go beyond me, I promise."

"I trust you. Don't worry, ok?"

"I'll try not to."

"So, what do you want to do until we have to go for supper?"

"I don't really know, Jeff - but - are you positive you want me there as your date?"

"I asked you - I meant it. Why are you asking me?"

"It's giving Trisha ammunition to use against you in a custody fight. I know how much your kids mean to you - and I don't want to be in any way responsible for you not being able to be as big a part of their lives as you want to be."

"How is it giving her ammo? I mean, we aren't doing anything - you wouldn't even let me give you a kiss earlier. So, let's go get my kids from Mike and play a game with them while Trisha tries to line up a babysitter."

"Sounds like a plan to me - give us something to do at least."

"And give the kids a chance to get used to you," Jeff said softly.

"What was that?"

"Nothing," Jeff answered, mentally kicking himself for speaking outloud.

When the pair got to Mike's room, the kids were busy watching a video on the television so Jeff changed plans slightly and decided to just watch the movie with the kids. While Jeff enjoyed the movie, Mike pulled Rachel aside. "OK, what gives? What's going on with you and Jeff?"

"Excuse me?"

"When and where did you meet Jeff - and what are you doing here?"

"I met him this morning at the arena. I work for Gundersen-Lutheran and am one of the volunteers. I was [arse]igned the job of being Jeff's [arse]istant for tonight."

"Do you realize what would happen to Jeff if his fans found out he was having an affair?"

"As one of his fans - it would do nothing to my stance as a fan. I may not respect him as much as a person - but are you accusing me of being the 'other woman' who caused Jeff and Trisha to break up?"

"You are, aren't you?"

"HELL NO! I met him less than eight hours ago! What kind of [nice person] do you take me for?"

"Well - the way that JJ went up to you and asked to be picked up, I thought that you must have met him before. He NEVER goes near strangers."

"Well, I hadn't met him until then - and I only met his father this morning. I had NOTHING to do with the break up of Jeff's marriage," Rachel said storming from the room after being accused of being a home-wrecker for the second time in a short period of time.

[Raevengeance]

When Jeff noticed that Rachel wasn't watching the movie with them, he quickly looked for her. "Mike, where's Rachel?"

"She said to tell you she forgot something she needed to do and that she'd see you later."

"What did you say to her?"

"Nothing."

"That's bull and we both know it - so what did you say to her?"

"I just mentioned how you being seen with your mistress would not look good to your fans, particularly since they don't know that you are divorced."

"Damn it! She's NOT my mistress! You know DAMN WELL that I never WOULD or DID cheat on Trisha! Why does everyone insist that Rachel is my mistress?" Jeff fumed.

"Daddy! You say bad word!" Alyssa said from the couch.

"Everyone?" Mike asked at the same time.

"Pumpkin, I'm sorry, but daddy just lost his temper. Your bad word jar will get the money when daddy gets home, ok?" Jeff said trying to take care of his daughter first. When she seemed appeased, he turned to Mike. "Yes, everyone, Trisha already accused her of it - and Trisha knows damn well that I never cheated on her - and that the divorce was HER idea since she didn't want me to be on the road doing what I love doing."

"Daddy! Where's the lady?"

"What lady sweetheart?" Jeff asked.

"One you was with in hall," Alyssa answered.

"She told your Uncle Mike that she had a couple things to do. I bet she'll be back though," Jeff answered hoping that he was right.

[Raevengeance]

Rachel left the hotel room, needing time to think, and see if she could figure out a way for Jeff to have dinner with his children, since they were in town to see him. Stopping at the benefit hall, she checked the place settings for the table Jeff had been [arse]igned to, and recognized the other diners as staff physicians at Gundersen Clinic along with his manager Michael. After discovering this information, she went to the coordinator to see if things could be arranged so Jeff's children could be added to the table, even if she ended up canceling her plans to eat with his small family. After making the necessary arrangements with the coordinator, and rearranging a couple of the place cards for the meal, Rachel went to discuss with the catering company the ability to get two plates of more 'kid-friendly' meals for JJ and Alyssa as well as something more in line with her personal taste preferences for herself after finding out what exactly was on the menu for the evening. She then returned to the room where she had last seen Jeff and his children.

"Rachel, is it?" Trisha asked coming out of a nearby door.

"Yes, is there something you wanted?" Rachel asked, not completely trusting Jeff's former wife after the allegations she had made earlier concerning her personal responsibility in their break-up.

"Yes, I need you to testify in divorce court for me in regards to your affair with Jeff, causing the prenuptial agreement we signed null and void."

"Well, if I had SOMETHING to testify about, I'd agree to do it, but I since I never had an affair with Jeff, I have NOTHING that will do you any good."

"Come on, how much would it cost to get you to agree to this?"

"It would take a complete lack of conscience on my part, and well as far as monetarily, you wouldn't get enough in your divorce settlement to pay me to lie, under oath in a court of law," Rachel answered.

"You're a [nice person] - you know that?"

"I've been called that much and worse by better people than you. Now, out of curiosity, did you get a babysitter for the kids?"

"No, but that's Jeff's problem. I'm leaving in a few minutes."

"How is that his problem if you and the kids are leaving in a few minutes?" Rachel asked confused.

"I'm leaving - the kids are staying with him."

"What?"

"I've always got the brats - it's time for Jeff to take care of them on his own."

"Your children are NOT brats! When are you telling Jeff of your plans?"

"I'm telling him when I get on the plane; he doesn't need to know until then. And until you've lived with the kids you wouldn't know if they're brats or not, well - I guess you're going to find out when Jeff drops the kids in your lap while he's off playing all the time."

"I take it back - you ARE the biggest [nice person] I've ever met, and since I JUST MET Jeff, I seriously doubt that he's going to be 'dropping' your kids in my lap anytime in the near future while he's off working to pay the bills."

"It takes one to know one."

"Ohhhh…did we go back to the third grade now? Your daughter acts more mature than YOU do, obviously JEFF's influence."

"Tell your loverboy that I said goodbye," Trisha said pulling her suitcase towards the elevator.

[Raevengeance]

After standing shocked in the hallway for a couple of minutes, Rachel continued on her way to the last room where she had seen Jeff. After knocking, she stood, shaking her head, still confused by the interaction that had just occurred.

"Rachel, is something wrong?" Jeff asked seeing the look on her face as he opened the door and she came in.

"Ummm…what exactly are your plans after the benefit tonight?"

"We have several radio shows and in-stores around the state this next week, why?"

"Just curious since Trisha decided to leave just now - for home."

"What???"

"I ran into her just now in the hall - and she said, and I quote, 'I've always got the brats - it's time for Jeff to take care of them by himself.' This was after asking me to testify about our 'affair' so as to invalidate your pre-nup."

"God, she's a piece of work! Did she say if she found a sitter for tonight?"

"No, but what if they eat with us tonight? And you're the first performer tonight, so they could stay and watch their daddy sing but still be back in the hotel by their bedtime."

"Great idea! Let me see what I can do about dinner for them," Jeff said reaching for the phone.

"Actually…I took care of that - that was where I had gone when I left - I know you want to spend as much time as possible as you can with the kids when you have the chance - so I sort of took a chance on tonight too. They do like mac-n-cheese, right?"

"Yeah, it's one of their favorite meals. Thank you," Jeff said leaning to kiss Rachel for thinking about how he felt.

"Jeff," Rachel said turning her head again.

"Sorry," Jeff said softly. "I…I just wanted to thank you for thinking of how much I enjoy spending time with my kids."

"It wasn't a problem, Jeff - but you really need to figure out what's going on as far as them getting home or what you're going to do while you finish your promo tour in Wisconsin."

"We will."

"Who is this 'we'?"

"I meant I, sorry. Now, let's go watch the rest of the movie with the kids."

When the movie ended, Jeff answered his cell phone, getting the message that he knew was coming - that his soon-to-be ex-wife had left town, and in the process left him responsible for taking care of their children in addition to his responsibilities as a performer. "Are you coming back for the kids tomorrow, Trisha?"

"No."

"When then - or who is going to?" Jeff asked.

"Figure it out yourself, Jeffrey. I've raised them on my own while you were out traipsing around the world partying with the other guys. It's MY TURN to have some fun!"

"Trish! I was trying to earn a living so you and our children could have everything you deserved out of life!" Jeff argued.

"That's what you say now, but it's not the truth and we both know it! You can take care of them for a while - they're your responsibility as much as they are mine."

"But Trish..."

"Good-bye, Jeff. When I'm done having my fun, I'll let you know and we can figure out what is going to happen with the kids," Trisha said before hanging up the phone.

[Raevengeance]

"Witch!" Jeff yelled, slamming his hand against the wall.

"Daddy, what wrong?" Alyssa asked coming over to make sure her daddy was ok.

"Sweetheart, you and JJ stay here with Rachel for a little bit. I need to talk with Mike for a few minutes," Jeff said, hoping that Rachel wouldn't mind baby-sitting for a little while.

"Mmmkay," Alyssa answered going back towards where Rachel was sitting watching cartoons with JJ. Rachel had heard the outburst, and Jeff asking Aly to stay with herself for a little bit, so she just hoped that at some point she'd find out exactly what was going on in the Timmons household.

After about 10 minutes, Mike came back and pulled her aside, telling her Jeff needed to speak with her in private. "Well, here it goes," Rachel thought, expecting to be told that she was going to need to tell the organizers of the benefit that Jeff would NOT be performing due to the family situation. She went to the room where Mike told her Jeff was waiting, and as she walked in the door which was cracked open, she said, "Jeff?"

"Rachel. Thank you - I hate this, but..."

"What is it?"

"I have something extremely important to ask you...but I hate to do it since we've only known each other since this morning..."

"What is it, Jeff??"

[Raevengeance]

"This is kind of hard, but…do you think that, well, you could come work for me as a nanny and part-time personal [arse]istant?"

"What?!?"

"Well - you've done a great job for me today, so that's why I'm asking about the personal [arse]istant - and the kids both seem to love you - so I think you'd do great taking care of them too, and you told me you wanted to be able to teach, you could be their private tutor."

"How exactly could I be your personal [arse]istant, who would need to be wherever you are working, AND a nanny to your children who live in California and who would still be IN California since you don't like taking the kids with you on the road. Even if you did take the kids with you, I'd have to stay at the hotel with them so I wouldn't be able to really do anything for you. I'm sorry, I'm just not able to be in two places at once."

"We can work things out, please. At least tell me you'll help me out this week while I'm in Wisconsin."

"Jeffrey Brandon Timmons! You don't play fair, you know that don't you?"

"What?"

"Those damn puppy-dog eyes you've got! We can try for tonight at least - but we've got to work something else out for the rest of your trip through Wisconsin because I have to work."

"Can't you take some time off?" Jeff asked hopefully, knowing how hard it was to find someone that both Alyssa and Jeff Jr. would accept so quickly.

"Jeff - at this point, I don't know. Today is Friday, when is your next appearance?"

"Not until Monday, why?"

"I can see what's happening as far as work tomorrow then - and if I have to call in sick on Monday, I will - but only if we aren't short staffed anyway. Where are you going to be on Monday?"

"Monday is appearances in Madison. On Tuesday, I'm in Milwaukee, Wednesday is Green Bay and Appleton; Thursday is Eau Claire, and on Friday, I'll be in the Twin Cities."

"The Twin Cities are not in Wisconsin!"

"It's close though - right?"

"Yes, it is. Well…as long as we don't have any other people taking PTO I should be alright, as long as you actually pay me - because I need my paychecks to pay my bills."

"Of course. We can talk about that tonight or tomorrow, but we really need to get ready for tonight right now."

"You're right. Can I change in your room?"

"Of course. I'll get the kids ready while you get dressed - if you'll watch them while I change after you get finished."

"Sure," Rachel replied as they made their way back to Jeff's room. When Rachel came out of the bathroom, Jeff let out a cat-whistle which surprised Rachel who did not feel like she was worthy of any cat-calls from men.

"You perty, Wachel," Alyssa said coming up to this new woman whom she sensed was important to her daddy. "Make-up?"

"What sweetie?" Rachel asked, not understanding the question about makeup.

"You do makeup?" Alyssa asked again.

"She wants you to put make up on her when you do yours. Trisha always did that for her to help her feel 'all grown up'," Jeff explained before going into the bathroom to get ready for the night himself.

"Sweetheart, I'm not going to be wearing make up, or I would put some on you too," Rachel answered, before remembering the lip gloss that she did carry with her in her purse all the time. "How about we just put some lip gloss on to make you pretty?"

"Mmmkay."

[Raevengeance]

When Jeff came back out of the bathroom after changing, he was amazed at the way Alyssa was acting. She was usually a serious 'tom-boy' always 'rough-housing' with anyone willing to play with her, yet here she sat all 'prim and proper' next to Rachel while Jeff Junior sat on the floor playing with some of his toys. "Are you ready?"

"Yes, daddy," Alyssa answered carefully getting up.

"Alright, what did you do to my daughter - how did you find her twin?" Jeff asked Rachel as they made their way to the elevators.

"What?"

"She is NOT one to sit down politely and wait - she's a tom-boy to the bone."

"Well, she just crawled up and sat down next to me after I put the lip gloss on her," Rachel answered.

"I have never in my life seen her act that way," Jeff said, shaking his head.

"Well, I'm sure that whatever happened will wear off just as quickly as the change happened," Rachel replied.

Before the dinner, Jeff mingled with everyone and anyone who wanted to talk to him while Rachel, Mike, as well as Mike's 'partner' Seth, kept the two little ones occupied. Finally, it was time for everyone to eat, and as the plates were set down for their table, Jeff started chuckling since Rachel had not only arranged for his children to get some good old fashioned Macaroni and Cheese, but she had her own meal changed as well.

"Daddy," Alyssa said, trying to gain his attention.

"What is it baby?"

"Tank you."

"For what, sweetie?"

"For eatin wif us."

"Aww, baby, I love eating with you and your brother," Jeff replied, wondering if his children really did know how much he loved them.

[Raevengeance]

As the time approached for Jeff's performance, he and Mike went back to his dressing room to prepare for it, while Rachel and Seth were left watching the kids. Mike returned as Jeff was being introduced. Jeff had originally been scheduled to sing only three songs, but since both of his children were there, he decided to throw in an extra song so neither child would feel slighted because he sang the song written for the other. He started with Whisper That Way the first single from his debut solo cd, then went on to perform Alyssa's song, Thinking of You, hoping she'd understand that he truly did love her even though he had been gone for so much of her young life. He then proceeded to sing Baby J which was written for young Jeff. He then closed his performance with Favorite Star.

Alyssa was excited to see her daddy sing the song that he had written for her, and she was not shy about sharing the fact that she was the inspiration for that song as Jeff sang it, and when hearing Baby J, she again informed anyone who would listen that that song was about her younger brudder. As Jeff finished singing Favorite Star, Rachel realized that it was probably time for the two children to get to bed, as Jeffie Junior was already falling asleep in her arms. She spotted her own manager and discussed the possibility of taking time off the following week due to an unexpected opportunity being given to her. Her manager agreed, provided that there wasn't anyone else in her work group taking PTO during the week so as to not leave them short-staffed. After finalizing the details, she took Alyssa and JJ back up to Jeff's hotel room and turned on a kiddie-friendly movie for the kids to watch as they fell asleep, while Jeff remained behind mingling and signing autographs for a period of time for anyone in attendance at the event.

Jeff finally was able to get away from the event, hoping that he'd be able to spend some time with his children before they went to sleep, but as he opened the door to his room, he found both of his children as well as Rachel fast asleep. He decided that instead of waking Rachel up at this relatively late hour he would just let her sleep. He made sure the three of them were covered up before sitting down in the chair in the room and falling asleep watching three people he cared deeply for, although he couldn't quite understand why he felt so connected with Rachel since they had only just met that morning.

Rachel woke up the next morning as Jeff opened the door for room service. "What... Jeff, why am I still here?"

"You fell asleep before I got back up here - so I just let you sleep."

"Oh..."

"Don't worry - I slept in a chair."

"Yeah, well, I suppose I should get going - here's my number - call me later and I will let you know what I figure out for this next week."

"Eat something first, please. The cereal is for the kids, but I ordered enough 'real' food for the both of us."

"All right I guess," Rachel answered helping herself to some scrambled eggs and OJ.

"Besides, we need to talk compensation for you this week. I was thinking - meals, hotel, gas - that sort of thing."

"Gas? You want me to drive my car?"

"I meant gas money - for the rental car that we have, which reminds - we have to pick that up this morning."

"Was that it?"

"No - you just interrupted me. As far as wages are concerned - about - $1200 a week, plus the other things."

"A week? How many weeks are you in Wisconsin?"

"Just this one - so far at least, but I had been thinking if we make this a more 'permanant' agreement..."

"Hold it - you are talking...$62,000 plus expenses, if I do this full time for a year?" Rachel asked after scribbling some calculations on some scratch paper.

"Well, if that's what it comes out to, yes."

"Jeffrey Brandon Timmons! You are nuts!!"

"Well you would be doing more than nanny work and personal [arse]istant duties - so you should be compensated for both."

"But that works out to $30 an hour if it is 8 hour days."

"Well, it won't be 8 hour days, so, ya know..."

"Damn that's three times what I'm making now - but what about insurance, retirement, that kind of stuff?"

"I will pay insurance coverage for you - and put so much into an IRA for you each year you work for me."

"Wow honestly, I don't know how I could turn down that kind of money - but - see if you can get the retirement stuff set upon the form of the a 401k - so I can get some tax deductions on my income...and you will be paying into social security for me - correct?"

"Everything to keep it legit."

"Alright - well, when do you need me again after this week?"

"Well, I am off off next week - and the week after that I'm off to New York for something - so probably when I get to New York."

"Could you possibly - try to get by in New York without me? I'd like to be able to give two weeks notice with my current job."

"Rach - that would be two weeks, but I will see what I could do, alright."

"Thank you. I may be able to - but it's better to make sure, ya know?"

"I do understand."

For the remainder of the week, Rachel travelled around Wisconsin getting to know Jeff and his children. She had also talked to her boss who agreed for Rachel to terminate her employment with Gundersen effective immediately. So during Jeff's off week - she would stay in La Crosse and pack her things before moving to California for her job with Jeff.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 2

Rachel packed all her belongings - and rented a storage locker at the local U-Haul and put all her material possesssions in it. After paying the first six months in advance, she took the things she wanted with her - her 98° Bears and the two build-a-bears that she had made - 'Jeff' & 'Rae' - along with her CD's and a new 'toy' purchased to make her life easier - a laptop computer fully loaded with everything. She also had the pager and cell phone Jeff was providing for her and, of course, all her clothes, not that there were many, but she had things to wear at least.

Before he left Wisconsin, Jeff gave her a sizeable advance which allowed her not only to take care of the storage shed - she was also able to pay off all her outstanding debt and leave some money with her parents to help with what they decided they need the most.

Finally, came the day that she would leave behind everything and everyone she knew and make a fresh start with a great job, working for a great man, and from previous implications, she may even be moving toward a romantic relationship with him. Because of the time her flight was scheduled to leave La Crosse, she arranged for a cab to take her to the airport. The one nice thing was that since she was flying from a smaller airport she wouldn't be h[arse]led much when she got to Minneapolis and met up with Jeff for the flight to New York.

After getting off the plane in Minneapolis, Rachel checked her boarding p[arse] to verify what flight she was supposed to take out of Minnesota, and then she checked to see what flight Jeff was arriving on before checking flight status for both flights. "Thank God! Jeff's fligth is ahead of schedule and our departing flight is late as of now," Rachel thought as she went to the gift shop to pick up a couple of magazines to help keep her occupied during the flight, before goingto the gate where she would be getting on a flight that would truly change her life forever.

While sitting doing a crossword puzzle, Rachel heard the announcement that Jeff's flight had just arrived, and she again checked the departure board to see that now the second part of her journey was scheduled to start on time. Jeff luckily would be getting off a flight from LA at a gate in the same area that the flight to NYC was leaving from, and Rachel didn't notice when he snuck up behind her, trying to scare her.

"Rachel, I'm glad you've agreed to come on board with our organization," Mike said.

"Yeah, well, with what Jeff told me I would be paid, I couldn't exactly say no. Hell, since the first time I started college I am debt-free."

"Good for you."

"Thanks, but it's all because of Jeff."

"You're welcome - and I've got everything set - so your check for helping in Wisconsin will be in your checking account by Wednesday."

"But...I thought..."

"The money I gave you was a gift."

"Jeffrey Brandon Timmons! I can't accept that kind of gift from you - or anyone for that matter."

"You already cashed the check so you can't turn it down now, sorry," Jeff replied.

"Jeff - think about this - please - let me pay you back or something."

"Nope - I wrote in the memo section 'gift' - not my fault you weren't paying attention."

"So where are the kids?" Rachel asked hoping Trisha had come to her senses and taken them back with her.

"Right now they are staying with my sister, Tina. I thought it would be better for you to officially start work learning what I expect of my personal [arse]istant. Then after a couple of weeks in Cali, we'll take the kids on the next trip."

"What about school for Alyssa in the fall?"

"Maybe Trish will have regained physical custody by then, but if not - we will work something out."

"Alright," Rachel answered as their flight began boarding, "Umm - I should warn you - this is my first flight, well second if you count La Crosse to here - but more than likely, I will spaz out."

"I'll be right by your side," Jeff replied as the trio made their way to the plane.

[Raevengeance]

After boarding the plane, Rachel made Jeff and Mike change seats around - so that she could sit on the aisle instead of by the window which was were she was originally supposed to be sitting. After listening to the pre-flight safety speech, Jeff turned and noticed how scared Rachel appeared. "Are you going to be ok?"

"Once we're in the air, I should be fine - if it is a SMOOTH flight. If we hit turbulance, you may lose your hand or knee or something because I'll totally freak."

After the two and a half hour flight, Jeff was extremely relieved that there weren't really any major problems while in the air - his hand hurt bad enough just from the way Rachel held it as the plane took off and landed. And as she had told him, while they were flying she was actually fine - until someone reminded her that they were flying.

The week spent in New York was relatively 'tame' as Jeff was there for a Borders concert/autograph session and to do a couple of talk shows, before guest hosting TRL for an afternoon. Jeff hoped that Rachel would handle everything that was thrown at her in style and not freak out.

After landing at JFK, the group got into a limo that Mike had arranged to pick them up, before heading to the Four Seasons where he had reservations for a two-bedroom deluxe suite while they stayed in New York. "Rachel, you'll get one of the bedrooms, Jeff you'll get the other, and I'll sleep on the couch in the sitting area," Mike said as they followed the bell boy up to their room with their luggage.

"Mike, maybe I should stay in the living room," Jeff said.

"Jeff - you're the star, you get a bedroom."

"But…"

"I'll stay in the living room - you can both have a bedroom," Rachel offered.

"NO!" Both Jeff and Mike yelled at the same time.

"Why not?"

"I am staying in the living room, end of discussion. I'm actually only going to be staying for two days anyway, so it's alright," Mike replied.

"But Mike - it would be better for me to stay out there for the couple of days you're here - since you have a tendency to sleep in your birthday suit - and I don't think that Rachel should be traumatized by accidentally seeing you with so few clothes on."

"And it would be better for her to see you in a similar lack of clothing?"

"At least I wear my boxers to bed - and I DID bring PJ pants to wear - so it's settled, while you're here - I'm in the living room," Jeff stated emphatically.

[Raevengeance]

"Jeff, you are NOT staying in the living room. I'll be fine in there - and I do have a pair of Pajamas to wear so it's not like she's gonna get a glimpse of my entire body either."

While the two men were arguing, Rachel slipped out of the room, and went back down to the front desk. "Can I get a room for 2 days, please?"

"Sure, ma'am. But aren't you with the two gentlemen who you came in with?"

"I am, but they seemed to forget there were three of us when the reservation was made, so I'm just going to get a room of my own."

"Here you go, it's just across the hall from their room. Do you need a bellman to help you with anything?"

"No, I left my luggage upstairs, and if it's across the hall, I am sure I can find it. Thank you," Rachel said, taking the key and going back up to the room she had just left.

"There, it's settled," Mike said, still not realizing that Rachel had left.

"Mike, where is Rachel?" Jeff asked, noticing that she hadn't interrupted them again, yet knowing from their week in Wisconsin, she would have continued to argue that since she was the 'expendable' one who should be sleeping in the living room.

"She probably went into one of the bedrooms to put her stuff away," Mike replied.

"Her stuff is sitting right here."

"Well then I don't know, maybe she had to go to the bathroom or something," Mike said, as Rachel came back into the room. "Here she is."

"Where were you?" Jeff asked.

"As if you noticed I was gone in the middle of your discussion," Rachel replied. "You probably just noticed since I hadn't said anything else for a while. But I was taking care of the situation. I am staying across the hall - both of you get a bedroom while Mike is here - and when Mike leaves, I'll move into the room that he's vacating until we leave New York. Simple Solution."

"Rachel, why pay for an extra room when this room does offer options for up to 4 adults?"

"Because I don't want either of you sleeping on the couch and you won't let me stay there. So it's settled. Here's my room number, call me when you need me," Rachel said taking her bags and going across the hall.

"Jeff, we only budgeted for the one room," Mike said after the door shut behind Rachel.

"Mike, I'll cover the extra room myself. It won't come out of our promotions budget."

[Raevengeance]

As Jeff went downstairs to ensure that Rachel's room would be billed to his personal credit card, Mike went across the hall to talk to Rachel.

"Hey Mike, what can I do for you?"

"We need to discuss somethings - and it would be better to do that while Jeff isn't around."

"Alright..." Rachel said hesitantly as she let him into her room. "What's up?"

"Well, first of all, thank you for taking on this position - but I don't think it's going to work out to be the combination position that Jeff had envisioned for you. We need you to be at each and every one of his signings/mini-concerts, and we both know if you are watching the kids you would have to choose what your priority was."

"I tried telling Jeff that when we were in La Crosse."

"I know you did - and I talked to him about it this past week as well, but, well - I'm going to be blunt - I think he has developed a crush on you - and he wants you to be put into a surrogate mom role to the kids until he either gets over the crush or asks you to become their step-mother."

"Whoa...I...I don't know what to say."

"Don't say anything - and it's just a gut feeling I have. He has NOT said a word to me to make me think that's what is going through his mind, but it wouldn't surprise me in the least."

"Maybe I shouldn't work for him," Rachel said, wondering if her boss would allow her to come back to work or if she had burned that bridge with the abrupt departure.

"NOO...that's not what I was trying to say. I think you and Jeff will work great together, but I think after this week, you may need to tell Jeff you can't handle both positions. I'm already working on trying to hire a regular nanny for him so that the kids can be with him on the road if Trisha doesn't decide to get the kids back from him before we leave California again, but since he had offered the position to you, he won't let anyone do it unless you tell him you can't do it yourself."

"Alright - but if I'm not doing that - I need to take a pay cut. I'm not going to be making the money that Jeff told me I'd be paid for just being his personal [arse]istant."

"Well, we can drop it down to $35,000 a year. It is in range for what a personal [arse]istant makes - and what we had budgeted for the position. Is that going to be alright with you?"

"Sure...It's still more than what I was making at my last job. Now, what exactly is expected of me in my role as personal [arse]istant?"

"Well, you will be responsible for making sure that Jeff is at all of his scheduled appearances on time, or notifying a contact person if he is running late so that the fans can be kept informed of the delay as well. At the events you will need to ensure that the fan lines for autographs remain orderly, help by taking pictures for fans or ensuring that items are ready for Jeff to sign."

"I think I can handle that."

"Well that's about it...but your day is probably going to be from likek 4:30-5 AM until maybe like 9 or 10 at night, at the earliest."

"But there is downtime for me between those hours, right?"

"Yeah, there is...it wouldn't be working all those hours, but Jeff is usually doing an early morning radio show, possibly a noon-hour show, and then the concert/signing in the evening."

"OK - not a problem for me. So...do I get a schedule for this week so I can keep him on track starting tomorrow with his first appearance?"

"I will give you one tonight at supper when I go over the entire schedule with Jeff. After this week, basically, I won't be coming with on his road trips on a regular basis, so you and I will meet and go over the schedule before you leave on the trip - or on a phone conference call if we won't be able to touch base in person that week."

[Raevengeance]

Jeff returned to his suite to find that Mike wasn't there. Wondering what had happened to his manager, he decided to wander across the hall and find out if Rachel might have heard where he was going. "Rachel," Jeff said as he knocked on her door.

"Hey, Jeff, what can I do for you?" Rachel asked opening the door to her room.

"Do you know where Mike went?"

"I'm here, Jeff. I was just talking to Rachel about her job responsibilities."

"I already talked to her about them."

"Jeff, relax, alright. Yes, you told me what you expect from me, but Mike is my true boss, and I needed to know what he expected from me."

"But..."

"Now that that is settled, we'll be having supper in the hotel restaurant at 5:00. Until then, it's personal time for both of you."

"Great. Come on, Rachel, let's go and explore a little bit."

"Jeff, I'm tired. I am going to stay in my room and take a nap. I will be sure to meet you both down in the lobby at 5 though," Rachel said trying to get them both out of her room.

"What did you say to her?"

"What? What are you talking about, Jeff?"

"Why would she push us out like that? Did you threaten to fire her or something?"

"Jeff, I told you, we just talked about MY expectations for her job performance. Nothing else. Remember, I'm NOT going to be coming with you everywhere you go now that we've got your [arse]istant, so I needed to let her know how I would go about making sure she knew where you needed to be and for what."

"If she quits because of you - I swear..."

"Jeff - relax, alright. The way you're acting, it's almost like you don't want to lose your girlfriend."

"I don't."

"Jeff, listen to yourself, please. You are interested in her, I understand that - she is a very lovely woman, but don't demand her attention every minute you're not working. She's going to need time to herself - and she won't get that if you expect her attention when you're not working."

"She can have her time to herself when I'm working."

"Jeff, she's going to be working then too - remember. The only time she's free is when you are off too. Yes, there will be times you do things together, but don't demand all her attention and time, ok? I don't want to see either one of you end up hurt. You're both very special people."

"I'll try to keep that in mind," Jeff replied.

[Raevengeance]

The two then went down to the restaurant, and received a message from Mike that he had been detained and they should go ahead and have supper without him, but that when he got there he'd go over the plans for the entire week with them.

After being seated, the waiter immediately came over to see if they wanted anything to drink. "A bottle of your best champagne, please," Jeff said.

"Hold it, I just want a Pepsi or a Coke, whichever. And I don't think he wants a whole bottle of champagne for himself."

"But we're celebrating," Jeff argued.

"You celebrate without me then - I'm not drinking."

"I'll just have water then," Jeff said as the waiter left them to decide what they were going to eat. "Why won't you enjoy some champagne with me?"

"I don't like that stuff. Jeff, I'm not a big drinker...well, I'm big - but I only drink on rare occ[arse]ions, and then it's one of two drinks - a screwdriver or a Bronx Cheer (A.N.: I THINK THAT'S WHAT IT'S CALLED - Rasp Schnapps & Lemonaide is what it is anyway)."

"Oh, well you have to have at least one drink tonight with me, ok?"

"Later - maybe. I need to be clear-headed, Jeff - I don't want to screw anything up for you or my job."

"Don't worry - I'm the boss - nothing is going to happen to your job."

"But if I do something that hurts your career, you'll get rid of me...I know it."

"Excuse me...but aren't you Jeff Timmons of 98 Degrees?" a young woman asked, coming up to him.

"Yes, I am. Can I help you?"

"Could I get an autograph and picture, please?"

"Alright," Jeff said, not wanting to disappoint her, yet wishing he could have dinner in peace.

"Do you think you could take the picture for us, please?"

"Sure, where's your camera?"

"Ummm...at home."

"And what am I supposed to take a picture with then?"

"Well...I was hoping you could get a camera and take it with that."

"Who do you want the autograph made out to?" Jeff asked, interrupting the discussion.

"To Trina, please. Thank you."

[Raevengeance]

"Here you go. Now, if you get a camera, and can catch me some other time, we'll do the picture, but you need to have your own camera. I don't provide one," Jeff said handing her the napkin where he had scribbled his autograph.

"But...what if I don't see you again?"

"Then I guess you just won't have a picture," Rachel interrupted. "Do you think Jeff carries a bunch of cameras around for fans who may want a picture, but who forget their own camera?"

"I'm sorry, Trina, but I don't have a camera - so if you can find one somewhere - you can get the picture, otherwise, you're just going to have to leave without one."

"Is this lady disturbing you, sir?" the maitre'd asked.

"She's just leaving, but could you maybe try to ensure that we are not disturbed again, please?" Jeff asked.

"Of course, sir. I'm sorry that you were interrupted."

"Jeff, how do you deal with people like that all the time? I wanted to slap her when she said she wanted me to go get a camera to take your picture with her. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind taking pictures of you with fans for them, but to expect me to go buy a camera to take the picture - that's where I draw the line."

"I'm grateful to all our fans - and sometimes they're just so excited they don't seem to think straight."

"Yeah, I can think of a few like that," Rachel mumbled as their waiter returned with their drinks and to take their order. After they placed their order, the pair continued to talk until being interrupted by Mike.

"Hey, glad you two got my message."

"Yeah, well, the lady at the desk barely let us step a foot off the elevator when she gave us the message."

"Good. Well, while you wait for your meal, we can go over the schedule for this week - and what we don't get covered, we'll finish when you two get back up to the room."

"OK - let's have it," Jeff said.

The meal was ready to be served just as Mike finished going over the weekly schedule. "Enjoy yourselves tonight, but don't forget when you gotta be up in the morning," Mike replied as he walked out the door.

[Raevengeance]

When the pair finished their meal, Jeff convinced Rachel to go for a short carriage ride through Central Park with him. "Are you enjoying yourself, Rachel?"

"Jeff - tonight is just amazing. I almost feel like I'm having my first date or something."

"Would you be upset if I asked you to consider tonight a date?"

"Jeff - we can't date. For one, you're still technically married and I refuse to be 'the other woman,' and two, I work for you."

"I'm working on number one - and if things work out for us, eventually we can cancel number two and you can just be my wife."

"Jeff - I need this to stay strictly business until there is a legal seperation at least for you and Trisha. I don't want her to have any ammunition when you go in to settle the divorce."

"I understand, so...on the work front, how do you think things are going?"

"Pretty good so far, not that I've been asked to do much. Tomorrow will be the start of the real test, but Jeff, I do think we need to rethink my job responsibilities. Just based on what I've been told I need to do as your personal [arse]istant - I don't think I could take care of your kids as well."

"But...they both know you and have accepted you in their lives!"

"Jeff - they will come to know and accept someone else too, unless you'd rather I continue with the childcare job and you find a new [arse]istant?"

"No, I really think you've got my best interests in mind as my [arse]istant, and you are able to relate to the fans who I run into during the day - so you know how they feel as well."

"OK, then I'll continue as your [arse]istant. You may want to talk to Mike or maybe your family to see about helping you find someone to watch your kids."

"I will. Thank you for being honest about your ability to do both. We may be able to find someone by the time we head out again in a couple weeks."

"I hope so, for your sake and the sake of the kiddies - they don't need to feel abandoned by both parents."

"I'm not abandoning them!"

"I know you aren't, Jeff - but to a child not having either mom or dad there could make them feel that way. I know you do everything you can to be there with them whenever they need you though. I think that's one of the reasons I fell in love with you."

"Excuse me? Fell in love with me?"

"Damn - I shouldn't have said that, but yeah, I fell in love with you - as your FAN."

"Rachel, please, you want something to happen between us - why not give it a chance?"

"What's going to happen if things don't work out, Jeff? I'm gonna be stuck without a job - and with no where to go - I can't risk that."

[Raevengeance]

"Why wouldn't you have a job? You're working for me."

"Jeff - if we were to become involved romantically and things didn't work out on that front, I just don't think either of us would want to work together anymore. That's why office romances are so frowned upon."

"OK, I can see your point, but please, if things do seem to start moving that way while you are working for me, promise me you won't completely shut the door. You'll give it a chance. I don't think we're going to have a problem with a relationship between us breaking apart though."

"If for some reason, something does happen I agree not to run for the hills to get away, but don't you go pushing for something to happen either, Jeff. You have a history of not completely thinking about the consequences of your actions."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Was Alyssa planned - or JJ for that matter or were they both 'oops - we goofed up' mistakes? And I'm not saying you don't love either of them, I'm just referring to the manner in which they were conceived."

"Well..."

"Do you see my point? You let your hormones and your [friend] guide you too often - and you have two children as a result, neither of whom really came at a 'good' time for you professionally."

"You're right."

"I just don't want us to make a similar mistake, Jeff. You deserve to have a wonderful woman as the mother for your next child - and you deserve to both know it's what you want - WHEN you want it to happen - not another accidental birth."

"I understand, honestly I do. But if we both feel it's right, we can explore a romantic relationship, right?"

"Yes - but not until I've gotten settled into my job. For now, it needs to stay strictly professional."

"Fine - but how is that 'letting things happen' if they lead that way?"

"Jeff - before you and I begin trying to explore a relationship, I want to be settled into my job, but if say, you were to try kissing me when we got back to our rooms at the hotel, I don't know that I'd stop you from doing it this time, unlike when we were in Wisconsin."

[Raevengeance]

"And what if I were to try while we're on our carriage ride?" Jeff asked, leaning over before placing a kiss gently on her lips.

"Did you get the answer you wanted?" Rachel asked as Jeff pulled away.

"Why didn't you stop me?"

"I told you, if it felt right - I wouldn't run from it - and that felt right. I know you, it's not like it was the first couple of times you tried that."

"I see. Rachel, please, let me know if you think I'm moving things too fast, alright?"

"Yeah, I will."

"I have to tell you something."

"What is it?"

"Dinner tonight - it was sort of a set-up. I asked Mike to leave the two of us alone for dinner tonight. I didn't think you'd accept if I actually asked you out on a date - so I needed to find a way to give us a date without you knowing."

"Jeff...you're right...I would have turned you down. But I have enjoyed tonight, it's been wonderful."

"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. Tomorrow afternoon, during our off-time, I want to take you shopping. I want you to get a couple of more 'formal' type outfits to wear to different awards shows that we'll be attending."

"Jeff...I brought the dress you bought me when we met. I'll just use that."

"You can't wear that to more than one event."

"But..."

"No - you have no idea what people would say if you showed up in the same thing for more than one event."

"Jeff - no one will be paying attention to me! And it's not fair, why do guys get to wear the same suits to awards shows but a woman has to get a new dress for every one - two or three for each show even?"

"I don't make the rules, but please, let me do this for you."

"I'll let you know tomorrow, ok?"

"Fair enough."

[Raevengeance]

After an hour, the carriage pulled back up in front of the hotel, where Jeff was a true gentleman and helped Rachel climb down. After giving the driver a generous tip, he escorted Rachel back up to her room. "You're going to be proud of me."

"Why is that, Jeff?"

"Because I want to take you into your room...and well, you know...but I know that our friendship would be severly damaged if I were to do it."

"Wow - thinking with the head on your shoulders, I am proud of you, Jeff," Rachel said, as she leaned closer to Jeff to kiss him good night. "Thank you for tonight. It was very special to me. I will see you in the morning, and Jeff, if you take it slow with me, you may get what you want."

"Rachel, I'll do whatever it takes to prove to you that I'm serious about having a relationship with you."

"You do that. And, I will let you take me shopping tomorrow, but only as a consultant as far as what looks good on me. I'm going to purchase a couple of outfits out of MY account, fair enough?"

"If that's what it is going to take, sure," Jeff said, trying to figure out how to purchase the outfits while allowing Rachel to think she had paid for them.

The next morning the trio of Jeff, Rachel, and Mike were up and out of the hotel by 6 am, deciding to stop somewhere outside of the hotel to eat breakfast before going to the studio to meet with the video production people as Jeff began deciding if he would indeed shoot a video for the first single he was going to release, Whisper That Way. After a very productive meeting, Mike went back to the hotel - to pack his luggage, as he would be returning to California later that night, leaving Rachel and Jeff to take care of the rest of his obligations in New York before they returned on Friday evening. While Mike was back packing his things, Jeff and Rachel went to Manhattan and did some shopping. Having the entire afternoon and evening free, Jeff devised a plan and he hoped it would work.

"Rachel, can we got out - on a real date tonight?"

"Jeff..."

"Please? We had one last night even though you didn't know about it beforehand. I want a real date where you realize that is what the evening is all about. Dinner and maybe out to a club dancing afterwards."

"You - dancing? Ummm, Jeff, did you forget that you can't dance?"

"Funny, we could catch a movie - or a broadway play if you'd prefer," Jeff offered.

"Let's plan dinner - and we'll even call it a date - and then just play it by ear, ok?"

"GREAT!" Jeff replied as the pair finished their shopping. "I will pick you up at your room at 5 - don't be late."

"Jeff, it's already 4:30 - how about we say - 6:30? Give me some time to get ready for it?"

"Alright - 6:30 it is. And until then, I'll leave you with this," Jeff said, leaning down and kissing Rachel quickly after they reached their rooms in the hotel. "And Rachel, wear that pretty purple outfit you bought tonight. It looks terrific on you," Jeff said before Rachel got her door shut.

[Raevengeance]

"Mike - where are you going with all your stuff?"

"Rachel did a great job - even a few things I wouldn't have expected an experienced handler to do. Things that needed to be done. You're in terrific hands with her, so I'm leaving tonight."

"Oh..."

"What? You want me to hang around yet?"

"Well, not really - but I admitted that last night was a set up - so Rachel may think that this is too," Jeff said.

"Don't worry. I'll explain this too her."

"Thanks, man. You are the best. And thank you for going with my gut feeling about hiring her."

"Hey, you've generally got a good head on your shoulders - and the fact that both of your kids opened up to her and the way she interacted with them while we were in Wisconsin, made me realize that she would definitely make a great addition to your team."

Across the hall, Rachel went through what happend to her in the last few weeks and was astonished that she had actually gone on a date with her most recent celebrity crush, even though the crush was gradually wearing off, and knowing that he wanted to go on another date with her as well. After a quick discussion with Mike, where she found out that she was being left to do her job for the rest of the week starting the next morning because Mike was leaving town that night yet, Rachel got into the shower to prepare for her date. After drying off, she started getting dressed, and as she looked at her reflection in the mirror she wondered just what it was that Jeff saw in her.

[Raevengeance]

At 6:30, Rachel was ready and waiting for Jeff - and actually decided to go see what was keeping him, causing them to meet in the hallway. "I was going to pick you up!"

"Well, I was tired of waiting, so tough luck," Rachel answered. "Did Mike leave already?"

"Yeah, he did. He's been gone for about an hour now."

"I hope I don't let either him or you down the rest of this week."

"You'll never let me down," Jeff said as they waited for the elevator.

The night went well for the pair. They started with a romantic dinner at a nearby Italian restaurant and followed that with a romantic comedy at a movie theater down the street from the hotel. As they walked back to the hotel, they discussed the official status of Jeff's first marriage.

"Jeff, I'm a little confused."

"About what?"

"When we were in Wisconsin, you called Trisha your 'ex-wife' and she was talking to me about testifying on her behalf when she divorced you. So what exactly is the status of your marriage?"

"We are in the process of getting divorced."

"And when is it supposed to be settled?"

"Hopefully this summer, but I haven't heard from my lawyer about the date."

"Jeff - where are you living?"

"The house."

"And Trisha?"

"She's there too."

"Do you realize a judge may wonder why you're still living together even though you want a divorce?"

"Well...I never thought of that."

"You may want to discuss this with your lawyer during your down time - I just would hate to see you have to give more to Trisha because the judge doesn't see you as truly being seperated or whatever."

"I will do that - as soon as I can find the time."

"I won't let you forget. So, anyway - there is a guest room for me to use until I can find an apartment, right?"

"Yes - and I'll help you find a place to stay."

"Thank you Jeff. And maybe - when the divorce becomes finalized - we can do more than casual dating."

"But...this isn't casual dating. Rachel, I want a relationship with you!"

"No relationship possible until you are again 'single and able to mingle'. I do NOT get involved in relationships with married men - and until the divorce is final - you are married, sorry."

[Raevengeance]

"But..."

"Jeff, I know that you don't feel like you are - but the thing is - if Trisha changed her mind and wanted you back, I think you would take her back. I've got to protect myself in case that does happen."

"I wouldn't though. She left the kids."

"She left the kids with their father who adores them both - and who did, at least, have a tendency to leave the kids with their mother. I understand why she did it, although I do think she should have warned you about it first."

"But I always checked in with her - and it was to give them the things that they deserved to have!" Jeff protested.

"Jeff, I'm not saying you were wrong, I'm just trying to show you Trisha's point of view on the topic, or at least a possible view she had. Maybe she just wanted to have her husband with her."

"I hate when you make me see things that way. So, let's get your stuff from your room and move it into the second bedroom of my suite."

"I'll move it tomorrow - I'm gonna be paying for the night, might as well make use of it. Good night, Jeff. I will see you in the moring."

After Rachel shut the door to her room, she quickly fell to the floor, wondering when her world would again come crashing down on her. Things just never went this smoothly for her - at least not when it came to men. She sat down and thought back to the last time she felt like she had found her 'Mr. Right' - turned out he wasn't even a Mister - just a creation of someone else's boredom. At least she knew Jeff was real - but how long would her fairytale last? When would her 'Prince Charming' realize she wasn't his princess and leave her to find someone more beautiful? "Dang it! I can't do this - I need to trust Jeff, even though part of what's going on is him 'needing' to have a woman in his life - but if I get hurt because of this - I may need to kill him to get over it!" she fumed to herself before picking herself up off the floor and going into the bedroom to get some sleep before they began the talk show circuit in the morning - and not the 'normal' talk show circuit that people think of, but going to the local news channels and being interviewed for their local broadcasts. The next day would be bringing more of the same - only with cable music channels in hopes of getting Jeff some recognition for his work. Thursday would include a visit to the local children's hospital as well as a signing/mini-concert at Borders in New York, before the pair would head back to Cali on Friday.

[Raevengeance]

Friday, after getting through all of the weeks appointments, Jeff decided to take Rachel sightseeing a little bit before their flight to California later that evening. The one stop that Rachel really wanted to make was a visit to the Statue of Liberty as it was one of the major symbols of the country to those who were not from the United States.

As they took the ferry back to where their car was waiting for them Jeff looked towards Rachel, "You are the best thing that has happened to me in a few years."

"Jeff, you're over-reacting."

"No, I mean it. If it wasn't for you, I'd still be sharing a home with Trisha until after the divorce was finalized - and hell, I wouldn't even know WHEN the divorce was going to be finalized."

"Well, I am glad that I was able to push you to get that answered, but Jeff, it's not like I did anything that important."

"Well, you were right about me needing to get out of the house...although, with Trisha gone maybe..."

"Jeff - for now - stay while you look for something else, but get out when you find something new."

"I will. I just wish you'd agree to stay with me."

"What have I told you? I am NOT going to be the 'other woman'. For a couple of days, until I can find an apartment of my own, yes, I'll stay with you - in a guest bedroom, but after that, I need to get out on my own."

"I know, I was just thinking outloud. I'm sorry."

"I just don't want you to forget. So where are we going to be the week after next?"

"Michigan, lots of radio shows and in-store appearances."

"I hope I'm up for the challenge."

"You will do fabulous."

"Thank you for the confidence," Rachel said as they finally got back to their car and headed towards JFK airport and their trip to California.

[Raevengeance]

The pair chatted about various things as they flew across the country, including what they both wanted to accomplish with their lives. When they finally reached LAX, they were met by Alyssa, JJ, and Jeff's sister Tina and her daughter Taylor.

"Daddy!" Alyssa yelled running towards him as soon as she saw him.

"Hey, angel. Were you a good girl for your Aunt Tina?"

"Uh huh," Alyssa answered as Tina nodded her head in agreement.

"Tina, thanks for watching them this week."

"You know it's not a problem, big brother. I love them both and they give Taylor a couple of people to play with as well."

"Yeah, but I still feel like I need to say THANK YOU for helping me."

"Think nothing of it, we're family - it's what family does! And you MUST be the incredible Rachel that Jeff has been talking about non-stop since he got home from Wisconsin," Tina said turning her attention to Rachel.

"I don't know that I'd say incredible, but I am Rachel."

"Ooops. Tina - this is my new [arse]istant, Rachel. Rachel, this is my baby sister, Tina."

"I'm his only sister."

"It's nice meeting you," Rachel said.

[Raevengeance]

"It's great meeting you too," Tina answered. "Now, let's go get your stuff and then we can get you back home, big brother."

"I have a rental car lined up - so when you're driving, can you make sure not to lose me since I have NO CLUE where I'm at out here?"

"I've got a better idea. Jeff - I brought your truck so you take all the luggage and the kids back to your place, and I'll ride back with Rachel and show her around a little bit, if she wants."

"That sounds fine to me," Rachel answered.

"But I was going to go with her," Jeff tried protesting.

"So which one of the kids is going to drive your truck? None of them are even close to having their learner's permit."

"Tina - you were gonna take them home, duh."

"Nope - your kids wanted to come see YOU get home - so YOU are taking them home," Tina answered. "And Taylor, you wanna ride with your Uncle Jeff right?"

"Uh huh - me luvs you Uncle Jeff!"

"Daddy - you not want us?" Alyssa asked as a pout started to form on her little face.

"Oh princess, it's not that at all. I love you and want you with me very much. Alright, let's get everything together and get out of here," Jeff said, realizing how futile it would be to argue with his sister when she had her mind made up.

[Raevengeance]

During the drive home, Rachel had Tina drive the rental car, since she had not clue where she was going out in L.A. They also did a little house hunting for Rachel so the two chatted and got to know on another.

One of the communities that Tina knew had a home for sale in was a gated community where one of her friend's lived, so they went in thanks to Tina being on the approved visitor's list.

As they came to the house Tina had told Rachel about, they discovered the house next to it was also up for sale. Rachel took down the number to call to set up a showing of the homes and the pair decided to get back to Jeff's place before he became too worried.

"Do you think Jeff would like that second house?"

"My brother? That is probably his dream home - and the guest house could easily be converted into a studio for him to use."

"Really - you think he has a dream house?"

"Everyone does, even if they don't admit it. What about you?"

"What about me?"

"Which of those two houses did you like best - based on exterior appearance alone?"

"They both seemed rather large for a single person."

"Come on - admit your dreams - which of those two houses could you see yourself living in?"

"Neither. I'm an apartment kind of girl."

"Sure - so you'll spend a thousand a month in rent for something you can't completely call your own instead of buying a house for probably 600 to 700 a month?"

"No - but..."

"Ok then - that's what rent is out here in good neighborhoods - so which house?"

"The smaller one."

"Why?"

"Because I don't need anything as big as the other one."

"Get out of reality for just a bit - which one do you really want? And I mean really want?"

"Seriously - I want the smaller one."

"So why was your expression back there saying you liked the other one?"

[Raevengeance]

"I have no clue what you're talking about."

"Whatever - so, if you like what you see, are you going to buy it?"

"The smaller one, probably. It's honestly a better home than I ever thought I'd be able to get."

"About time you admit you've pictured homes before."

"Anyway - where do you and Taylor live? Close by I'm guessing."

"Yeah - well - we live a couple doors down from Jeff right now - he was great and financed the house for me - so I'm getting it with a much lower interest rate."

"Always good."

"Yeah - and the rest of our family is up in Northern Cal. Trisha's family actually lives in the same community Jeff and Trish and I do."

"Ok - why that info?"

"Figured you'd be asking. And if they see you with Jeff this week they may get curious, and come find out."

"Well, could I stay with you instead?"

"My brother wouldn't let you. He feels like you should be with him because you work for him."

"Well he's nuts."

"I agree - but the thing is - he's nuts about you."

"Me? Impossible - he doesn't even know me."

"Yeah, well I told you before - he has talked about you nonstop since coming back from Wisconsin - and the kids just adore you as much."

"But..."

"You spent time with them - doing things they wanted to do. Yes, Trisha took care of them - but it was always more about what she wanted."

"Oh."

"I probably shouldn't have said anything, but you seem to be denying that anything could happen between you and Jeff."

"It's OK - it just surprises me is all."

"Well here we are, I better go get Tay before Jeff has a hissy fit. Don't forget to call about those two houses."

[Raevengeance]

"I won't; I'll do it as soon as Jeff points me toward the phone."

"Good," Tina said as they walked in the house. "Hey brother, Rachel needs the phone."

"What took you so long?"

"I showed Rach around a little bit. Geez. We are both adult women who can take care of ourselves."

"You could have warned me!"

"Sorry to interrupt but..."

"Yes?"

"Where is my stuff? And where am I staying?"

"Me show!" Alyssa said running up and pulling Rachel along behind her.

"Jeff...I took Rachel to see a couple of houses I knew were on the market. And actually, I spotted one I thought you'd like too -"

"Thanks, Tina - you are an awesome sister."

"Yeah well I try. And make sure Rachel gets the smaller one - I know she loves it."

"I'll do my best."

"Do better. It's next door to the one I saw for you."

"Thanks. Tina - I definitely owe you."

"I'll add it to your tab, brother. So when are you going to introduce her to the rest of the family?"

"Soon - but not as my girlfriend. She has concerns about being the other woman before the divorce is finalized."

"Can't say I blame her. Look at me - Taylor's dad promised me he'd leave his wife - unfortunately both her and I got pregnant at the same time - and who is he with now?"

"Her. I understand, but I'm not sleeping with Trisha anymore."

"He told me the same thing - and that they were in the process of divorcing. See the connection?"

"Yes - I see what you are saying."

"Good - now treat her right she deserves to be your queen."

"Thanks for the approval Tina."

"Thanks for finally finding someone worthy of you."

[Raevengeance]

As Tina and Taylor left for their own home, Jeff ran upstairs to find Rachel and his children so they could go out for dinner together, and he could maybe get some ideas about things she would want for her home when she moved in. For now, she had boxes of things she had shipped from Wisconsin sitting in his garage, and while he didn't mind storing her things, he knew she wanted to get settled as soon as possible. "Hey, you ready to go get some supper?"

"Sure, and if it's not a problem, could we maybe drive by a few car dealerships? I'd like to be able to get my own car and return the rental."

"Sure, that sounds great. Tina said there was a phone call you wanted to make?"

"Oh thanks, yeah, she thought she saw a house that you would love to be able to purchase. I'll set something up, do you have anything planned for this week?"

"All I'm going to do is help get you settled into your life in California."

"Thanks, Jeff - now where is the phone?"

"Here, just use my cell phone."

After talking to the person whose number was listed as the contact for both homes, Rachel hung up the phone. "We're going to meet them tomorrow morning about 10, if that's alright with you - if not, she said to call her back and we could set something else up."

"Sounds great, and then we can go get you furniture for the house."

"Jeff - we're looking at the house for you."

"Tina told me about the second house. And knowing my sister, you and I are going to end up becoming next door neighbors - so you ready to do some furniture shopping tomorrow afternoon?"

"I guess...if I can get the mortgage for the house."

"Don't worry about it, Rachel. If need be, I'll co-sign the loan for you. You'll get it - and that goes for your car loan as well. If you need it, I'm your co-signer."

"Jeff - you're way too good to me. Anyway, let's get going."

"Sure thing. So, what kind of car were you thinking about getting?"

"Well...nothing to terribly fancy. The only thing I do know is that it won't be a Chevy, my family had bad luck with one so I'm not going to risk that with myself."

"Well - what is your first preference? We can go to a couple of different dealerships."

"Well - Dodge, Chrysler, or Ford are my top three makes."

"No other preference?"

"Well, Dodge or Ford are probably better since they are both involved in racing and I gotta support the sponsors. And my drivers drive for Dodge soooooo..."

"Well we can check out the dealerships for all three and then you can pick from what they've got."

"Yeah, that sounds like a plan," Rachel answered as Jeff opened the door to his truck for her. "Thank you."

"No, thank you," Jeff said, wishing that this was truly a family dinner.

[Raevengeance]

After a nice dinner at Denny's, Jeff took Rachel and the kids to a local Dodge dealer, since it was closest to where they had eaten. "So what model are you interested in?"

"Well they race the Intrepid but the Stratus probably offers more room."

"Let's see what they have then."

"Hi, I'm James. How can I help you tonight?" a salesman asked, hurrying to [arse]ist them.

I"m just getting a gauge on the price of different cars," Rachel answered.

"A new car for the wife - the Stratus is a good family car," James said directing his attention to Jeff.

"Excuse me - I am the potential customer, and he is only a friend who agree to stop with me because I am new to the area," Rachel said.

"Fiesty one you have there," James said, again concentrating on Jeff.

"If you want a commission - you had damn well better talk to the actual customer," Rachel said fuming.

"Wachel..." Alyssa said trying to get her attention.

"Jeff - why don't you take your kids to the park for a bit - so I can take care of business here."

"Boy, you sure are whipped," James said as Jeff grabbed Alyssa and JJ and took them across the street to a park.

"There - maybe NOW you'll focus on the TRUE customer."

"So when he gets back we'll talk financing."

"Where's the boss here? I want to talk to him."

"He's gone for the day."

"Well, I'll just have to call and let him know that you cost him the sale of new car, won't I James?"

"Why would you do that?"

"Because you are ignoring your customer, and while I know that you probably have good sales people here, I also know that you would get some of the commission on the sale - and since you haven't discussed one thing vehicle related with me - I'm not going to be paying you for helping me. Good evening," Rachel said as she got into Jeff's truck and drove it across the street to the park.

"So - did you find your car?"

"No - I refuse to buy a car there after the way he treated - or ignored me."

"I'm proud of you, Rachel. You stood up for what you believed in."

"Thanks. So - is there a Ford or Chrysler dealer nearby?"

"On the other side of town."

"OK - let's check those tomorrow afternoon."

"OK - now what do you want to do?"

"I'm actually kind of tired - can we just go back to your place?"

"Sure - no problem."

[Raevengeance]

"Jeff - thank you."

"For what?"

"For being you - and treating me like I actually matter."

"You do matter. So any plans for what to do when we get back home?"

"Actually, I want to get connected to the 'net and touch base with a couple of my friends, after that, I think sleep is on my agenda."

"Well, you can borrow my computer for tonight - and depending on when you find something we can get you connected with your own computer tomorrow."

"Thanks, Jeff," Rachel replied as they pulled back into his driveway.

"No problem - Alyssa can you show Rachel where the computer is? Rach - it's got a permanent connection to the 'net, so just open up the browser."

"Thanks, Jeff."

After Alyssa showed Rachel the office Jeff had set up, Rachel sat down and moved the computer mouse to turn the screensaveer off. Pulling up Internet Explorer, she got a chuckle out of the fact that Jeff's homepage was actually the 98* message board. "Don't get enough of yourself, Jeff?" Rachel asked when she saw him walk by the room.

"Huh?"

"Your homepage - the 98 Degrees message board."

"Oh, well that was so I could see what fans have been saying recently."

"Ahh, ok," Rachel replied as he walked away. Once he was out of sight she navigated to the message board on nicklachey.com and was slightly surprised to find a screenname logged on there. After logging Jeff out, she logged onto her screenname and made a post for her good friend, Jenn, letting her know that the New York trip and flight back to California had gone well.

post on the Nick Lachey Message board:

Jenn,
I'm here trying to find a house and car but next time we're off maybe I can come visit you? I'll try to check in later, but I'm borrowing someone's computer right now.
Talk to you later.
Rae
[/b]

She had thought about saying whose computer she was using, but knowing the way people could be she wanted to keep her connection to Jeff quiet as long as possible. Only her closest friends knew what was going on - and they had been sworn to secrecy about Rachel's (or Rae's as they knew her) new job. As she was logging off the site, Jeff came back in.

"You don't need to get offline."

"No it's okay, I left a message for my friends. Oh - but you'll have to log back into Nick's message board."

"Nick's message board?"

"Yeah - I pulled it up to leave the message for my friends, and I had to log you off."

"I'm busted."

"Don't worry I won't say a word about it."

"Thanks, Rachel."

"So why aren't you logged into the 98 board like that?"

"The truth?"

"Of course."

"Because if I post once, they'll want it all the time."

"Very true considering some of the people on there."

"Yeah - and if anyone asks why I don't post, it's because I lost my login info."

"And if anyone catches on that you're posting in Nick's board?"

"They wouldn't be able to do that. You're the only person who knows - or who will ever know."

"You're funny Timmons. So where are your kids?"

"They're watching a cartoon on tv."

"Well, I'm beat. So I will talk to you tomorrow," Rachel said going towards the door.

"Goodnight, Rachel. I'm really glad you're working for me," Jeff said, resisting the urge to kiss her. "Can you do me a favor, and go say good night to the kids before you go to bed? It would mean a lot to them."

"Sure. Jeff, thank you for everything," Rachel said, stopping next to him and kissing him softly on the cheek.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 3 - House Hunting

The next morning Rachel was the first awake, being so accustomed to a different time zone. She quietly made her way to the kitchen, hoping she could find something to eat, maybe enough for Jeff and the kids too. After finding all the fixings for French Toast, Rachel decided to make some of that, hoping everyone liked it.

The first person to make it into the kitchen was Alyssa, who wanted to help.

"Okay sweetie can you set the table for us?" Rachel asked, grabbing the plates she had found during her exploration of the kitchen.

"Uh huh," Alyssa answered grabbing the plates and silverware from Rachel. "What else me do to help?" she asked after setting them out on the table.

"I've got this done so you go get your daddy and let him know breakfast is ready."

"OK," Alyssa said running to get her dad and little brother.

While Alyssa went to get Jeff and JJ, Rachel put all the French toast on the serving plate along with the sausage. Then she grabbed the milk and gl[arse]es for everyone. As she made her third trip from the kitchen to the dining room with the butter and syrup, Jeff and JJ were following Alyssa into the dining room.

"Rachel - you didn't need to cook us breakfast, I was going to take you out to eat."

"Yeah, well, I was hungry - and didn't want to wait."

Well, thank you I do appreciate the thought. I haven't gotten a good home cooked breakfast in a long time."

"Well, breakfast is my forte," Rachel replied as she and Jeff helped both children with their breakfasts. Alyssa, was being stubborn, however, and wanted to have things done the same way Rachel did, which meant instead of having her French Toast and sausage cut up for her, she wanted to cut each bite with her fork as it was needed. Ulitmately, Rachel got Alyssa's cut up for her, after explaining that she just hadn't cut her own yet.

Alyssa would not eat until Rachel's was cut into pieces though.

After breakfast, Rachel and Jeff took JJ to Tina's since she had offered to babysit him while Rachel and Jeff did their house hunting - with Alyssa after she protested that she should be able to go with because she "was a big girl" who didn't need a babysitter anymore.

Rachel, Jeff, and Alyssa then went to the community where the two homes were located. When Jeff saw the look on Rachel's face as they drove up to the homes, he understood what Tina meant about Rachel wanting the house, although he thought he saw a similar look for both homes. He also knew that Tina was right the larger home truly was his dream house, based on the exterior alone. He just hoped the inside would be as worthy of his praise.

The person showing the homes arrived right at the designated time and asked which home they wanted to look at first. At Jeff's insistence they chose the smaller home Tina said would be great for Rachel - and as they explored Jeff realized just how right Tina had been.

They then went next door and Jeff was amazed at how astute Tina was in finding this home for himself.

"So which home are you interested in?"

"Actually, both. She's looking at the smaller home, and I'm extremely interested in this house."

"Well, when would you know for either or both if you decide on them?"

"Rachel?"

"How much is that other house?"

"$890,000"

"What?"

"Rachel - do you want it?"

"I just can't afford that."

"Do you want it?" Jeff repeated.

"Well, it looks terrific."

"We will be putting an offer on the table for it before we leave," Jeff said so they continued to see what the larger home had to offer. "And what is the asking price for this home?"

"This one the list price is 1.5 million."

"Could we do both properties for 2 million?"

"Both - I'd have to check. What would the offers be on each home?"

[Raevengeance]

"$1.3 million for this one, and $700,000 for the other," Jeff replied.

""i'll be back in a few minutes," the agent said going to make a call on her cell phone to see if that offer would be acceptable.

"Jeff! I can't afford a $700,000 house!" Rachel protested. "Not with having to buy a car as well as purchasing furniture for the house."

"Rachel, you love that house. I want you to have it. I'll co-sign the mortgage with you, make the down payment, and help with the monthly payments if you need it. You moved out here to help me so please, let me help you."

"The community manager agreed to those offers," the agent said coming back in the room. "We do need a 10% down payment as well as the community [arse]ociation fee of $100 per property for the year at the time the deal is signed."

"OK, we'll be back with the downpayment and the loan papers this afternoon. We really would like to close this deal as soon as possible."

"No problem, sir. We will do everything we can to [arse]ist you in accomplishing that. The keys to both properties will be turned over to you both as soon as the paper work is all signed."

"Well, we will be needing furniture delivered to both homes. If we have a store deliver the furniture - can someone let them drop the furniture off into the garages of the homes for us while we aren't here?"

"Of course. We can accomodate deliveries for you at any time. With the owners consent we can allow them into homes as well. Knowing this, we will just keep the second garage door opener for each home until after these deliveries are made, or until you come pick them up from us, if that would be alright?"

"That sounds fine," Jeff answered, while Rachel stood speechless at how her life was turning out.

"We'll be issuing your vehicle permits at the time of the signing as well, how many vehicles will be at each residence on a normal basis?"

"Two, and we can also place people on a list so they are always permitted into the community without contacting us, correct?"

"Yes, sir. We can take care of that information at the time of the signing as well."

"Thank you so much for the [arse]istance today. We will be back this afternoon. The deliveries will be in later today or tomorrow. We need to go do some shopping now so that they can be made," Jeff said as the group all got ready to leave.

[Raevengeance]

As they walked back towards Jeff's truck, something Jeff had said inside hit Rachel.

"What did you mean when you said two cars at each house regularly?"

"It's just easier that way."

"Jeff, I'm only one person - I'm only going to have ONE car - how is it easier to say two?"

"If you get a second car you don't have to add it later," Jeff stammered trying to get out of the corner he worked himself into. "Besides they just want to insure there isn't going to be a car lot in front of any houses."

"Jeffrey Brandon Timmons! Don't you lie to me. What do you have planned?"

"Well, I"m sure you're going to get a good 'practical' car."

"So?" Rachel interrupted him.

"So - I was thinking about getting you one that was less practical."

"No! I swear if you try that, I will quit. Do you understand me?"

"OK, OK. I won't do it," Jeff promised, mentally adding "until Christmas."

They then made their way to a local furniture store where Jeff helped Rachel pick out the 'major' furniture she would need immediately - bed, dining room table, sofa, that sort of thing. The pair then went to the bank where the mortgage papers for both homes were ready and waiting to be signed. Jeff also took care of getting a cashiers check for the $200,000 down payment as well as the $200 [arse]ociation fee.

The next step for the pair was a car dealership to hopefully find Rachel's new car. At the Ford dearlership, for Rachel to get a car with all the options she wanted, she ws told it would have to be ordered - and wouldn't arrive for two weeks. With that in mind the group went to the Chrysler dealer across the street where Rachel looked at the Sebring, finding a model in the perfect color with all the options she wanted. After a short test drive, Rachel chose to purchase the Sebring, which was a convertible. The only thing slowing down the purchase was the fact she did not yet have her California driver's license.

Jeff agreed to take her to the DMV the following morning - and they would return to pick the car up in the afternoon.

"So what's it feel like?" Jeff asked as they drove back to the community in which they would soon be living.

"What?"

"Being a homeowner - new car, all of it," Jeff replied.

"Well, it's different."

"I hope in a good way."

"Of course. So - all the furniture we bought today's being delivered to the houses tomorrow - and it will be left in the garage?"

"Right."

"So the two of us are going to get it moved in by ourselves?"

"With the help of freinds and family," Jeff answered. "Oh - and you can use the phone when we get back to my old place - to set up your phone, cable and electric services."

"Man, I almost forgot all of that."

"Well, I'll have to set it up for myself too."

"Who is the best Internet provider?"

"You'll want high speed - so enter the phone company or cable company."

"Who provides yours?"

"Phone company."

"They'll probably be easiest. So when are your friends and family helping us move?"

"Saturday - that gives us the time to get any painting done in the houses."

"Who's all going to be helping?"

"My parents, Mike, Justin, Drew, Nick, Matt, probably a few others, but I'm not sure."

"Justin, Drew, and Nick? Are you kidding me?"

"You work for me - you're gonna meet them sometime, why are you so surprised?"

"Well - let's just say that rumors keep you and Nick from [arse]ociating with each other."

"And why believe rumors?"

"Because it would make sense."

"What, why?"

[Raevengeance]

"Why do I believe the rumors? Let's just say, you may be able to con the blonde's fans into believing you like her - but I have a solid brain in my head. The smiles when you are around her are forced, and anyone who has seen a genuine Timmons smile could tell you that. And since Nick is supposedly so in love with his wife, it would only make sense that the fact that you don't like her would cause problems between the two of you."

"I'm civil towards her," Jeff protested.

"Yes, you are CIVIL - but as I said, people who know Jeff Timmons can see the difference, and I would guess that having spent as much time together as you have with Nick, Drew, and Justin - all three of them could tell the difference between your being civil and true friendship with her."

"You got me. Personally, I think she's a money hungry, scheming, coniving witch who is going to use Nick and then spit him out when she gets everything she can from him," Jeff admitted.

"Wow - we've got the same image of her," Rachel laughed, glad that Alyssa had decided to go back to Aunt Tina's after looking at the two houses earlier. "I know this is like sort of personal, but do you by any chance know if Nick was at least smart enough to have a pre-nup signed before walking down the aisle?"

"He wasn't. He believes she truly loves him, and he refuses to listen to anyone who says differently."

"Ummm...yes, the woman loves him, yet when the bosses at Sony and her daddy told her she needed to drop his [arse] in 2001 to allow her to be seen as 'eligible' for the male fans, but when that doesn't have the effect they had hoped, she jumps at the chance to get back with him. If Nick could get her away from her manipulative and controlling parents, I'd say they may have a chance but I just can't see it happening."

"Exactly, but Nick did think it would end after they got married."

"Right, so since they're filming his life, are the camera crews going to be following him here as he helps with the moving?"

"[crap]! I forgot about that, but my guess is that they will be."

"Just remember, don't sign the release to be shown on the series," Rachel said laughing.

"Yeah, don't need Jess using me as another of her stepping stones to greater success."

"I'm proud of ya, Jeffers."

"Thanks. Well, ready to sign on the line for the house?"

"I think so. Jeff - thank you for helping me get this house. I really do love it."

"I could tell - and my sister would have skinned me alive if I hadn't, she told me you loved that house last night."

"Remind me to thank her again for showing me these places. And it will be convenient for us being so close."

"Yes it will," Jeff said, knowing that Rachel meant in relation to work, but he was thinking on a more personal level.

**note** I do NOT have any knowledge of Jeff's true feelings towards Jessica - this is all FICTION. Thank you

[Raevengeance]

After they both signed all the paperwork to purchase the homes and received the keys and garage door openers for the homes, Jeff and Rachel went to Tina's and picked up his kids and took them out to a special dinner to celebrate the purchases. When they got home, Rachel called and made arrangements to have all her services turned on no later than Friday so that Saturday after being moved into the house, she could actually stay there. When she was finished, Jeff called and made the arrangements to have all his services transfered to the new home before calling his in-laws so they would know how to get in touch with either him or his children following the move. He also told them to give Trisha the message that their marital home was hers to do with as she saw fit - since he had bought a new home for himself and their children.

The next morning, Jeff took Rachel to the California Department of Motor Vehilcles to get her California driver's license. They then went to the car dealer and finalized the purchase of her new car which they then took back to Jeff's current home.

The rest of the week was spent doing more shopping for each of their homes as well as some basic decorating of the homes so that the furniture could be moved into the correct rooms on Saturday and not need to be moved out again so that painting could be done later.

When Friday arrived, both Jeff and Rachel were already worn out from all the work they had done to prepare for the move on Saturday. About mid-morning on Friday, someone was knocking on the door, and since Jeff was still sleeping, Rachel went to answer the door.

"Do I have the right address?"

"I think you do, unless you're not looking for Jeff," Rachel jokingly answered ushering the guest into the house. "I'm Rachel, his new [arse]istant. It's a pleasure meeting you, Justin. Let me go get Timms out of bed, it's about time he woke up anyway."

"I'm up. Hey, man," Jeff said walking into the room. "Justin, this is my [arse]istant, Rachel. Rachel, this is Justin Jeffre."

"DUH! Did I not call him by name? Stupid man. Anyway...I'll leave you two alone. And thank you for helping get me moved into the new apartment, J. I appreciate it."

"My pleasure. So, what time are we meeting the Lachey's tonight?"

"Reservations are for 6," Jeff answered.

"Well that's great that the four of ya are having dinner - any possibility it could lead you all back to the recording studio in the near future for us fans??"

"You're coming with us - so are Lea and Jessica," Jeff answered.

"You are soooooooooooooo not making me be in the same place as that blonde barbie doll."

"Rachel - come on, it's only a couple of hours for dinner."

"But you need someone to watch the kids. I'll stay and babysit for ya," Rachel offered.

"That's what their nanny is for, Rachel. Come on - you have to meet them all sometime - so no time like the present."

"Who says I have to meet them all sometime?"

"You're my [arse]istant - you're gonna be running into them when we DO get back into the studio."

"Jeff - when you get back to working on the group stuff - you aren't going to need me. So I'll be searching for a new job by then."

"No, you are my personal [arse]istant no matter what project I'm working on," Jeff countered.

[Raevengeance]

"Whatver"

As the time for dinner rolled around Rachel was persuaded to join the group, but she told Justin and Jeff both to make sure she was NOT left alone with Jessica or she could not be held responsible for the outcome. The trio pulled up to the restaurant in Rachel's new car since Jeff had already begun loading his truck for the move the next day, just as Nick, Jessica, Drew, and Lea pulled up in Drew's Navigator and Jessica's BMW.

"Hey - long time no see, Justin!" Nick said, grateful to have people with intelligence and common sense to converse with over dinner.

"Hey man," Justin replied before greeting Jessica, Drew, and Lea.

"So you must be Rachel," Lea said turning towards the woman who was with Jeff and Justin.

"Last time I checked, although it's hard to tell who I am lately," Rachel joked.

"Well, I'm Lea - the short one is my husband Drew."

"Lea I know who you all are - I've been a 98 Degrees fan for years," Rachel said interrupting her. "I appreciate the thought though since Jeff didn't offer introductions."

"OK, just wanted to make sure."

Once the group was seated they ordered an appetizer platter which included an [arse]orment of pre-meal snacks. As the waiter was taking their orders for the main meal another waiter brought the sampler platter for them to start on.

"Rachel, have some buffalo wings," Drew offered.

"No thank you," Rachel started before being interrupted by Jessica.

"Another sane person. How anyone can eat buffalo is beyond me."

"Jessica," Nick groaned.

"The reason I don't eat them isn't because I don't eat buffalo. I don't eat it because I don't like chicken wings."

"What does not liking chicken wings have to do with not eating buffalo wings?"

"Have you ever seen a buffalo - or a picture of one at least?"

"Yes."

"And did it have wings?"

"Well..."

"Think about it."

"Why?"

"Buffalo don't have wings - therefore buffalo wings are not buffalo - there are spicy BBQ chicken wings."

"So why call them Buffalo?"

"I think it has something to do with Buffalo, New York," Drew offered.

"Oh."

Dinner continued relatively normal as Rachel tried observing the interaction everyone had with each other, picking up on the keen sense of frustration everyone was feeling towards Jessica. When dinner was finished Jeff and Rachel were pulled to the side. "We need your to sign release forms for us," the camera crew said.

"Sorry, I don't sign anything," Rachel replied.

"But that dinner footage is great. We really need to use it."

"I said no - now if the company wants to offer me money for my appearance - we MAY discusss it," Rachel answered.

"What a way to treat your friends."

"I just met them tonight I wouldn't call them friends," Rachel replied.

"Jeff, come on," Nick said, "Can't you convince her to sign it?"

"She has her reasons for it, Nick and I don't blame her. Besides if we sign tonight they would be allowed to film us tomorrow as well."

"But..."

"No Nick I won't ask her to compromise her principles for you or anyone else."

"Some friend you are."

"Nick, baby, why aren't you coming?"

"We're trying to get something worked out, Jess."

"Well come on, I'm tired."

"Then go you have your car here."

"But..."

"Just go with your wife, Nick," Rachel interrupted. "My answer is not changing."

"Fine. You know Jeff, I never though you'd be jealous of me."

"Jealous - why would I be jealous?"

"MTV approached us for a television show - Uni signed me to record as a solo artist - the list could go on for a long time."

"First - I could care less about the damn show - you're selling out with it and you better do some checking - your father-in-law approached them with the idea originally. Second, I wouldn't sign with Universal as a solo artist if they guaranteed me a five million dollar check just for signing with them - you know how they screwed us over and did zero promotion for us. And now you stand here bragging - your album is going to flop and we both know it."

"And your album is going to the top of the charts?"

"I know it won't, but it's 100% me I don't have some company trying to screw me over to make a profit with it. I am back to the gr[arse]-roots promos that we did when we started. And I'm getting the music to the people who WANT IT and will appreciate it."

"My wife won't leave me because I'm always gone, at least."

"No, Nick, your wife is going to dump your [arse] because you are too far beneath her level as a celeb. You won't be helping to bump her status up - so you'll be expendable - same as in 2001," Rachel countered knowing how hurt Jeff was about the comments regarding his marriage.

The next morning, Drew and Lea arrived at Jeff's "old" home at 7:30, followed by his parents, brother, and friend. 8:00, when the "official" move was slated to begin, had come and gone with no sign of Nick.

"After last night is Nick ever going to be here?"

"I talked to him this morning, and he said he would be," Drew answered.

"Maybe you should call him and see," Pat suggested.

"Yeah - better than sitting here waiting," Drew replied as there was a knock on the door.

"Drew, no need, he's here," Jeff called.

"Let me just say, I am NOT helping HER MOVE!"

"Good, I don't want you touching my stuff anyway," Rachel retorted.

Eventually, everything was moved, and the group decided to go out to celebrate the completion of the daunting task.

Jeff swung over to Tina's to pick up his kids, while Nick called Jessica to see if she wanted to join them.

Ulitimately it was Jeff, Alyssa, JJ, Matt, Drew, Lea, Justin, Nick, and Rachel in the group eating, and they opted to go to Chuck E. Cheese for the kiddies, although Rachel and Lea were trying to figure out if it was the two children based on age or if it was the five grown men who had the mentality of children.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 4 - Divorce Proceedings

January finally arrived - and with it Jeff's day in divorce court. He had spent most of his summer and fall on the road promoting his album which may not have had the sales numbers some artists generate, but for an independent project funded by himself he was proud of what it had done. Considering Nick's album had, as predicted, tanked terribly while Jessica's album had annoyingly gained momentum even though the majority of America knew her only as a lazy blonde [nice person] - who couldn't do anything for herself.

During the fall and winter, Jeff had been slightly successful in getting Rachel to date him, with the guarantee that once the divorce was finalized the pair would advance beyond the casual dating stage.

On the appointed day, Jeff and Rachel arrived at the courthouse, along with JJ and Alyssa who were taken immediately to the judge's chambers with their nanny.

"Do you think Trish is going to show up?"

"Honestly Rach, no I don't," Jeff answered. "Her family hasn't heard from her since she left in May - so I seriously doubt that she even knows about today."

During the proceedings the judge was disappointed that both parties were not present. However with the testimony provided by Trisha's family, he agreed that a divorce was in the best interest of all concerned. The prenuptual agreement signed before their marriage was found by the judge to be a valid and entered into by both parties without duress so the split of marital [arse]ests was extremely simple. Due to her extended absence from their lives physical custody of the children was granted to Jeff, who had already agreed to not exclude the Speery family from the children's lives. Trisha, if and when she returned, could petition the court to grant her visitation rights - but until that point it was left up to Jeff to decide if and when she could see the children.

Their marital home was officially put into only Trisha's name - leaving her solely responsible for all bills for that property.

After all of the details were figured out and clearly stated by the judge, Jeff took his family out for supper before taking the kids to Grandma and Grandpa Speery's for the night.

"So what's your plans for tonight?" Rachel asked after the kids were settled into their grandparents home for the night.

"A real date for you and me - would you prefer a movie or a club?"

"Jeff..."

"What? It's time we had our first official date. And I'm once again a free man."

"But you've been divorced less than 12 hours!"

"So - you said you would officially date me after the divorce was finalized - that happened today - so now we can offically day," Jeff countered.

"Let's just rent a movie - and watch it at your place."

"We've done that - hundreds of time - now we get to be seen in public together."

"Fine - a movie - then we can go back to your place."

After deciding which movie to see, the pair made their way to the theater. Once inside, Jeff stopped at the concession stand to purchase their refreshments so they wouldn't need to go during the movie.

Although Rachel tried to lead Jeff toward the front of the theater to find seats he stopped her and led her to the back row.

"Do you realize how cliché this is? And we aren't in high school."

"You're complaining because I want to make out with you?"

"Jeff," Rachel started before thinking better of it, "just forget it," she finished as she allowed Jeff to lead her to the seats he had chosen.

"Rachel, what is it?"

"Nothing - just forget I said anything."

"But..."

"No, I changed my mind about what I was going to say - so forget I was saying anything."

"All right," Jeff sais as the movie trailers began playing. By the time the movie started, Jeff had already managed to get a couple of kisses, although, neither could be considered a "make-out" kiss.

Several times during the movie, they both reached for popcorn at the same time and their hands touched, sending a small spark of "electricity" through Rachel. About halfway through the film, Jeff decided to "go for it", so he leaned over to kiss Rachel this time intending to go further than the quick pecks they had exchanged since Rachel started working for him.

When he finally pulled away, he had a big smile on his face, "Jeff, what are you trying to pull?" Rachel whispered.

"Just wanted to kiss my girlfriend. And you my dear are an excellent kisser," he answered causing her to turn crimson.

"Just watch the movie," Rachel said, trying to get her mind out of the gutter and wondering how it would feel to go even further with Jeff.

"Sorry," Jeff said, wondering if he had screwed up.

"It's ok - but this is not the place for that," Rachel whispered back, "Now if we were watching a movie at your place..."

"Let's go," Jeff said standing up.

"[freaky] much?" Rachel asked laughing as he literally pulled her from the theater and towards his car.

[Raevengeance]

**now back at Jeff's house**

"I can't help that I haven't had any loving in well over a year."

"Sure, Jeff, whatever."

"It's true; Trish and I split last January."

"Yet you lived with her until May. And idiot, January to January is a year."

"Whatever, not like it was happening often before that either."

"Whatever, yourself. You could have been dating women who would sleep with you."

"But I didn't want 'just sex'," Jeff reasoned. "I wanted to make love."

"Sure, Timmons. I'm surprised you didn't take advantage of a few of the women who were at Fan Fest. They'd open their legs for you, regardless of their marital status."

"I don't want to sleep with a fan. I only want to make love to you."

"Problem there, boy. I am a fan."

"You know what I meant I don't want to be with some random fan who only wants to be with me because I'm Jeff Timmons, pop star. I want to be with someone who cares about me personally."

"Ask them, I'm sure they would tell you that they do."

"Rachel! Stop it. You are the only fan, woman, person in this world who I want to share that part of my life with anymore."

"I appreciate that, but I think if you got it - you'd change your tune really quick."

"Why are you trying to make me out to be an [arse]?"

"Because, you're a man, there has to be some of that there. You just haven't shown it."

"Maybe there used to be - but not since I met you."

"Sure, Jeff whatever you say."

"Did you want something to drink?"

"Sure, how about a screwdriver?"

"You are asking for alcohol?"

"Isn't that what I said? I can settle for Pepsi instead."

[Raevengeance]

"No, it's not that. But this is the first time you've had alcohol since we met."

"When I'm with you at least," Rachel mumbled.

Eventually the pair mad their way upstairs to Jeff's bedroom to get Rachel something to sleep in because she decided that she didn't want to go home after having been drinking, even though no driving would be involved.

While Jeff was in the bathroom getting ready for bed, Rachel got changed in the bedroom and curled up under the covers of Jeff's bed.

"Oh, I'll go to the guest room," Jeff said, seeing Rachel in his bed, knowing he could not share a bed with her without making love to her.

"Jeff - no - this is your bed stay here," Rachel said.

"Umm alright," Jeff said as he crawled into the opposite side of his California King bed, praying he could control his hormones.

The next morning, Rachel woke up slightly sore - and looking for Jeff. Not hearing him in the master bath or seeing any sign of him in the bedroom she got up and put her clothes from the previous day back on before going in search of the man who had changed her world the previous evening.

Jeff sat at the dining room table wondering exactly what to say to Rachel the next time he saw her.

"Morning Jeff."

"Rachel I..."

"Yes?"

"I'm sorry about last night. I shouldn't have taken advantage of you that way."

"Taken advantage of me? What are you talking about?"

"Last night - my bedroom."

"What are you talking about,Jeff? You didn't take advantage of me."

"You didn't know what was happening...and I...I...took advantage of you. I...I [arse]ulted you - "

"Jeff - stop it! You did NOT [arse]ault me. You did nothing to me last night that I didn't want you doing."

"You didn't give me permission."

"Jeffrey Brandon Timmons - if I hadn't wanted us to make love last night - we wouldn't have. I may have had a couple drinks, but I could have made it home or stayed in your guest bedroom - or said NO to you I know you Jeff - if I had said no, nothing would have happened."

"But..."

"Jeff - repeat after me. I did not do anything wrong."

"I did..." Jeff started.

"Continue."

"I can't. I raped you last night."

"Do NOT say that word about what happened between us!"

"But..."

"No Jeff! We made love - it was NOT - N-O-T rape!"

Jeff eventually and reluctantly quit telling Rachel he had [arse]aulted her, even though in his mind that was what had happened.

[Raevengeance]

The next few weeks went by, and Jeff was again working on songs with Jim Brickman for a short stint on Jim's Valentine's Day tour, although he would only be along for four of the concerts scheduled. Every time Jeff saw Rachel during the weeks following their sexual encounter, she noticed a look of anger, frustration, remorse, and self-loathing cross his face before he attempted disguise his feelings. After only a couple of days of that behavior, Rachel finally confronted him about it, asking what his problem was.

"It's - I just - I destroyed what we could have had together because of that night. I'm so sorry, can you ever forgive me?"

"Jeff - the only thing destroying our relationship is the way you're acting now."

"But - I didn't mean to rape you."

"WHAT have I said about that? Dang it, Jeff! I keep telling you it was NOT, I repeat NOT rape! If I had said the word NO, it would have been, but I didn't stop you, I made no effort to stop you. It was CONSENSUAL intercourse - now STOP turning what had been a wonderful and beautiful night into something sinister!"

"But…"

"No, Jeff. You listen, hear, and ACCEPT it - we made love - it was consensual - nothing else. If it had been a rape, your [arse] would be in jail right now. Now you get your [arse] over to Jim's and I'll talk to you later," Rachel said, still fuming that he could not understand that even though she had had a single alcoholic drink earlier that evening - by the time she went to bed two-and-a-half hours later, it was out of her system, and since he had only been drinking water all evening - contrary to what Jeff was probably thinking, the alcohol was not in any way involved with Rachel's decision to stay with Jeff that evening or to allow him to make love to her.

After Jeff walked out the door, Rachel went up to the bathroom and pulled out the EPT Plus pregnancy test she had purchased the night before. She had been feeling extremely tired and had also been slightly nauseous, and her only thought had been of the one night she had spent with Jeff and the possibility that she was now carrying his third child. After carefully following the directions on the package, she got the preliminary answer which had confirmed her suspicions. She phoned her doctor's office making an appointment for first thing the next morning to get medical verification of the pregnancy, and hoping that Jeff would go in to the office with her. When Jeff returned home, she again saw the look of disappointment and anger cross his face when he saw her before he masked them. He always claimed it was anger and disappoint at himself for not being able to control himself that night when confronted about it, but Rachel wanted those emotions gone – no matter who they were directed towards.

"So, how was your day?" Rachel asked, wondering if she should mention her suspicions to him now or wait until the next morning when she asked him to go to the doctor with her.

"It was ok. We're getting again together tomorrow before Jim and Anne head out to start this part of their tour."

"Well, good luck with that. I printed out a bunch of your fan emails for you to read when you get the chance. I think I'm gonna get going," Rachel said, praying Jeff wouldn't stop her.

"See you tomorrow," Jeff called before she could get out the door.

"Actually, I've got some appointments tomorrow, so I won't be here. I'll check in with Mike in the afternoon and find out what needs my attention."

"Oh…ok," Jeff said, wondering why Rachel was still working with him when she was so obviously upset about what had happened the night his divorce was finalized, since it had obviously changed things between them, just not in the ways he was imagining.

[Raevengeance]

The next morning Rachel arrived at the doctor's office, ready to hear the news. After thinking about Jeff's constant reaction to seeing her, she had made a decision after she had returned to her house the night before, she was leaving California – at least for a little bit until Jeff could come to terms with what had happened between them without constantly thinking of it as a sexual [arse]ault. Having worked in a hospital for as long as she had, Rachel knew the test results could come back rather quickly, so she sat and waited in the office after having the blood drawn for the tests. During her wait, she called her friend and adopted little sister, Jenn, to see if company would be welcome down in Arizona. "So, Jenn – you up for a visit from your big sister for a little while?" she asked after the customary greetings were exchanged.

"Sure come anytime you want. How long of a vacation are you planning so I can take some time off of work while you're here?"

"Probably about eight months."

"EIGHT MONTHS?!? What's going on?"

"I'll fill you in on what's happening when I get there. I just wanted you to know that I was going to be coming your way."

"I do appreciate that. So when are you going to be heading over here?"

"Tomorrow, I should be there in the afternoon or early evening. I'll give you a jingle when I get close so you know when I'll be there."

"Ok, sissa. Are you sure you can't tell me what's going on right now though?"

"I can't, I'm sorry. Tomorrow, you'll learn all, I promise," Rachel replied as her doctor came to tell her the results.

"Congratulations. Your guess was right – you are going to be having a baby," Doctor Martin said, shaking Rachel's hand.

"Thank you, doctor," Rachel said still reeling from the news, even though it had been expected.

"Stop at the front desk and set up a 'New OB' appointment with the nurses and a first official visit exam with me before you leave."

"Actually, I'm going to be moving soon, so I'll just set those both up at the clinic where I'm moving."

"I'm going to miss taking care of your medical needs, Rachel."

"I'll probably be back after the baby is born," Rachel replied. "I just can't stay here during the pregnancy."

"Are you worried about your safety?"

"No, it's nothing like that. It's just the way that the father is still kicking himself because we had sex - and I can't stand seeing him that way, so I'm leaving until he can get over his thoughts about what happened that night."

"I think I understand."

"Long story short - he feels like he raped me, but I say it was consensual. He just isn't able to see it the same way I do."

"Ahhh, well then maybe you raped him," the doctor offered.

"Nope - he insigated it, but I never said no or told him to stop, so it was consensual."

"Well, I would say you're right about that. I hope things work out for the two of you."

"It will, eventually. Thanks. Now, would it be possible to get a copy of my medical records for my next doctor?"

"Sure. Can you stop tomorrow morning and pick them up?"

"Not a problem. Thank you."

"You're welcome…and I wish you the best of luck."

[Raevengeance]

As Rachel left the doctor's office, she phoned Jeff's manager to let him know that she was going to be taking her vacation time and then would be resigning from her position. "I know it's short notice, but I just have to get out of here for a while at least. And I know Jeff needs his [arse]istant, so go ahead and replace me."

"Well, you aren't really needed for anything imparticular for Jeff for the next few weeks anyway until he starts the promotional appearances with 98 Degrees or an occ[arse]ional appearance booked for him solo, so it should be alright."

"Mike, I'm not going to be able to do those," Rachel said knowing she'd be 'very' pregnant by the time that 98 Degrees went back on the road together. "I'm not sure if or when I'm even coming back here."

"RACHEL! Jeff is going to be so lost without you!"

"Maybe, but he'll find someone who will probably do an even better job for him."

"When are you leaving?"

"Tomorrow morning."

"Good Luck, but I'm only listing this as a leave of absence. When you're ready, come back - and I'll put ya to work in my offices if Jeff won't take you back as his [arse]istant."

"Thanks, Mike. I appreciate the offer."

"You keep in touch with me, or I'll come find you no matter where you end up with your disappearing act."

The rest of the day and that night, Rachel spent packing for her extended stay in Flagstaff, Arizona, with a couple of quick calls to the people she considered her friends in California to say goodbye. She finished with one exception that evening. She still needed to say goodbye to Jeff and his children, and she knew it would be extremely difficult for her to do that. She opted to tackle that task in the morning, praying that Jeff's attitude would be different and her vacation would be much shorter than she was anticipating.

The next morning, car packed with her necessities and ready to go, Rachel ran next door to Jeff's for her quick goodbyes. As she walked in the house, she was greeted by Alyssa who had been on her way to the kitchen for the breakfast that Jeff was fixing.

"Hey, what's going on?" Jeff asked as Rachel followed Alyssa into the room. "Mike told me you were going to be taking a vacation. Why didn't you tell me?"

"I was going to...that's why I came over this morning, dork," Rachel replied, glad to have the old rapport back with Jeff.

"So, we'll see you in a week?" Jeff asked hopefully, wondering how long this vacation was going to last since Mike hadn't mentioned that piece of information when they talked the previous evening.

"I'm not actually sure how long I'll be gone. I've got time and money so I just decided to go do some 'splorin out here while I have the chance."

"True - you are going to have to get the exploring done by June when we go on the road with the guys."

"Yeah," Rachel agreed although she wasn't sure she would be going with him and the rest of the group. "Well, I've got some driving to do, so I better get going. Thanks for the opportunities you've given me, Jeff," Rachel said before giving both Alyssa and JJ a goodbye hug and kiss.

As she made her way down the road, Rachel made a quick decision to actually stop and say goodbye to Lea and Drew since she had become good friends with Lea in the short time that she had been in California. With a promise to the young Lachey brother and his wife to stay in touch, Rachel left California.

[Raevengeance]

**Chapter 5 - 98 Degrees Meet-n-Greet (August that year)**

Rachel had arrived safely in Flagstaff and at her friend's apartment, and true to her word, she stayed in touch with Drew, Lea, Mike, and Tina, although none of them were informed of Jeff's impending fatherhood because Rachel believed that Jeff deserved to know before his friends found out about the situation. June came and Rachel still hadn't been able to tell Jeff about the result of their sexual encounter. Her friend Jenn who had now become her housemate as well, had the opportunity on several occ[arse]ions to talk with both Drew and Lea when they phoned looking for Rachel, and it was during one of these calls that a plan was hatched to ensure that Jeff would find out about the pregnancy before Rachel went into labor. To aid in the plan, Drew arranged for concert tickets as well as backstage p[arse]es for the friends and promised that he wouldn't mention Rachel's attendance to Jeff who was blaming himself for her disappearance from the lives of himself and his children.

The day of the concert arrived and Rachel was hurriedly pushed out the door by Jenn. "I don't WANT to go to some concert! I feel like a freaking WHALE!"

"Well, there is a reason for that, duh! And we won the p[arse]es, and we are NOT letting them go to waste, so YOU ARE GOING!"

"Will you at least tell me WHO we are going to see?"

"You'll find out - when we get there - NOW GET MOVING!"

Before reaching the venue, Jenn insisted that Rachel be blindfolded so as to NOT ruin the surprise - or have her refusing to go into the venue period when she realized WHO they were seeing. Once there, the pair were led to the room set up for the official meet-and-greet. After they were in the room, Jenn allowed Rachel to remove the blindfold as they sat and waited for the performers to arrive.

"Hey, glad you could make it," Drew said, causing Rachel to turn towards the door, as he entered the room followed closely by Lea, Justin, and Nick who all noticed Rachel's current 'condition'.

"Great, just great," Rachel mumbled knowing that Jeff would soon be finding out about his impending fatherhood.

"Congratulations," Lea said, breaking the uncomfortable silence.

"So, who's the lucky man?" Drew asked.

"He doesn't know yet."

"Aren't you going to tell him?"

"He'll find out - when the time is right."

Jeff had heard about their VIP fans who had received full-access p[arse]es for backstage, but since Rachel had left him, he tried his best to avoid fans, which was extremely difficult with the tour and his VIP fan club both of which included nightly meet-and-greets with fans.

"Jeff, come on - you know we've got guests," Justin said, after finding Jeff since he hadn't followed them into their meet-and-greet area.

"I'll be there for the traditional meet-and-greet, Justin; they can wait to see me until then," Jeff snapped.

"They won PERSONAL interaction with ALL FOUR members of 98 Degrees!" Lea said, having followed Justin after giving Rachel a quick hug.

"Well I'm NOT UP TO IT!" Jeff said, slamming his fist into the wall.

"That's just TOO BAD!" Justin said, grabbing Jeff by the arm and dragging him towards the room where everyone was hoping to rekindle a romance.

"You are dead, Jenn," Rachel hissed.


<span style="font-family:Arial">too be continued</span>

[Raevengeance]

Everyone knew Rachel was upset because they were pushing the issue of her letting Jeff know about his impending fatherhood, but they also realized they were doing the right thing, because he did deserve to know - before Rachel was in labor, and her due date was fast approaching.

"Hi, it's nice meeting you all," Jeff said, not realizing that Rachel was in the room. "I'm sorry, but I've got a really bad headache, so I'm going to go lie down to try to get rid of it before the show. See you all later," he added hoping to make a very quick exit.

"You are staying," Nick said, grabbing Jeff before he could make his exit. "Two of you have some very important matters to discuss - so the rest of us will be in the other room."

After their friends left, Jeff looked up and his eyes met Rachel's. "Rachel??" he asked, surprised to see her after this long.

"Hi, Jeff."

"You've been here - since you left California?"

"Yeah...I...I'm sorry, Jeff. I Just couldn't stay there - not the way you were continually accusing yourself of raping me. I couldn't take it anymore - not when I knew it would be getting worse."

"Worse?" Jeff asked confused.

"I couldn't have you transfering your feelings to the baby."

"Why would I blame Alyssa or JJ for what I did to you?" Jeff asked, confused having not seen Rachel's very pregnant figure yet.

"Not the kids, Jeff - the BABY - the one that is due in the next few weeks," she replied standing to face Jeff so he could indeed see that she was pregnant.

"You...you're pregnant?"

"Yeah, Jeff - I am. I found out right before I left. I wanted to tell you - but you were still blaming yourself, and I just couldn't tell you when you were calling yourself a rapist. Our child was not conceived during a rape!"

"It's mine?"

"No, Jeff - it's another virgin birth," Rachel said rolling her eyes. "Of course it's yours - you are the only man who has known me intimately - and you're the only man I want to know me that way, but you NEED to stop referring to that night as an [arse]ault."

"I...I...I thought you left because you were so upset that I had raped you."

"JEFFREY BRANDON TIMMONS! I keep telling you - IT WAS NOT A RAPE! If I felt like it had been your [arse] would NOT be here tonight - it would be in a jail in California with some big bully's [friend] stuck up it! I NEED you to understand it was NOT a criminal act! If you can't, I can't be near you."

"I...I'm trying - but wow - I can't believe I'm gonna be a daddy again."

[Raevengeance]

"Ummm, Jeff...actually...."

"Yes?"

"We're going to have twins," Rachel said, unsure how he would react to that information.

"Twins?"

"Yeah, two more kids for you to spoil. Jeff, I'm really sorry about not telling you sooner - I wanted to so you could be a part of everything that was happening, but I just couldn't, not with your attitude about what had happened that night, it wouldn't be good for me."

"I understand, now - but wow, I just can't believe no one told me before today."

"No one knew. Yeah, I kept in touch with Drew, Lea, Nick, Tina, and Mike, but I knew it wouldn't be right to tell your friends and family about the pregnancy before you found out yourself."

"Let's go tell them then," Jeff said.

"Ummm - the ones here DID notice already, but you can tell them the news about it being twins."

"Wow - I still can't believe this. We are going to have a GREAT family."

"Jeff - this doesn't change our situation. We aren't together even if we are becoming parents together."

"But..."

"Jeff - I won't keep you from the kids, but you and I are back to square one in our relationship."

"You are coming back to California though, right?"

"Yes, I am - I want you and your kids to be close to each other. I just couldn't handle being that close to you during my pregnancy if you were still feeling like what had happened was a crime. If when I had been talking to our mutual friends it sounded like you had changed your thought process about that night, I would have come and told you before now."

After telling everyone the news, Jeff and the other members of 98 Degrees went to get ready for the concert that night. Following the concert, Jeff went back to Flagstaff with Rachel, since he had the next two days off, so they could talk more before he returned to finish the last ten dates on the tour. Following the completion of the tour, he returned to California to pick up JJ and Alyssa who had been staying with their grandparents or Aunt Tina while Jeff was on the road for the tour.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 6 - Happy Birthday Babies!

Alyssa and Jeff Jr. were both extremely happy to see Rachel again when Jeff returned to Arizona with them, and the time between their arrival and the birth of the babies was kept extremely busy with getting the needed supplies for the trip from Arizona back to Southern California, with Jeff continually insisting that they would need twice as much as Rachel was anticipating.

Finally, in Rachel's mind at least, she was ready to deliver the babies and eliminate the constant hovering that Jeff had been doing recently. She understood that he cared about her - and that he was only 'attempting' to make things easier for her, but it was definitely not working that way.

Eventually the babies decided that they wanted more room to grow - and Rachel went into labor. Arriving at the hospital with Jeff, Jenn, Alyssa, and JJ, Rachel was immediately taken to the birthing center where an exam was done to determine how far she was in being prepared to deliver the little bundles of joy.

"You've progressed quite quickly. We're going to take you to the labor and delivery room because you are almost there. Did you want an epidural?"

"I'm about to push TWO babies the size of footballs out an opening the size of a dime - of course I want the freaking epidural!" Rachel said as she felt the pain from another contraction.

Anesthesia was paged to meet them in the L&D room to administer the epidural. While in the room, Rachel's birthplan was confirmed - to ensure that things were going to be done the way she wanted them done. As they were reviewing who she wanted to participate in the delivery, Jeff looked extremely disappointed. "Jeff, you weren't involved at the time I wrote this plan," Rachel tried explaining, "but you ARE going to be here. And Jenn, do you mind not being here with me? Someone needs to stay with his other kids."

"I totally understand," Jenn answered.

"Thank you, sisser," Rachel said, before ensuring that Jeff would be as involved as HE chose to be during her delivery, including being offered the opportunity to cut the umbilical cords as well as insisting that he be there for all the "first cares" for the babies. She also reiterated the fact that the babies were to be cleaned off before they were handed to her.

[Raevengeance]

After the birth plan was updated to include Jeff, Rachel's doctor came in followed by a young woman. "Hi, Rachel, do you mind if a resident takes part in your delivery?"

"As long as it's a female resident - I have no problem with it."

"Good, this is Dr. Matheny, she is just starting her OB-GYN rotation, so she will be primarily here as an observer, although I do want her to do the physical exams, just so she becomes accustomed to what she is trying to see."

"It's nice meeting you," Rachel said as she felt another contraction.

"Let's check your progress here, Rachel," Dr. Smythe said, and when she was finished with the exam, Dr. Matheny repeated the exam to see if they both reached the same conclusions.

Rachel quickly progressed to complete and the first baby was delivered with no problems. "It's a girl," Dr. Matheny announced as Jeff cut the umbilical cord that had connected it to Rachel for the previous 9 months.

A few minutes later, Rachel delivered baby number two, and again as Jeff was cutting the cord, Dr. Matheny announced the birth of another daughter. "But...I was having a son and a daughter..." Rachel said confused because both the ultrasounds and the amniocentesis said she was having both a son and a daughter.

"They're both girls," Jeff said as the nursery nurses took care of cleaning the infants off as well as getting their footprints on their identification sheets as well as applying the newborn id bracelets to both the babies and Rachel.

"Are you still feeling any contractions, Rachel?" Dr. Smythe asked.

"No, I'm not."

"Let me do a sonogram then - because I know the amnio said it was a boy and a girl as well." After the sonogram was set up, Dr. Smythe started laughing. "Well, apparently you have a true gentleman. Your son is still waiting to be born. He let his sisters enter first. If you're not feeling contractions, we can do two things - administer pitocin and try to restart the labor process for you or do a c-section to deliver him."

"C-Section - I can't deal with this anymore," Rachel said, still wondering how they had completely missed the fact that she had been pregnant with triplets throughout her pregnancy.

"Jeff, did you want to scrub in to be there for the delivery of the last one as well?"

"Rachel? Do you want me there?"

"Jeff - it's your choice - if you want to be there, I want you there - but I don't want to push you to be there if you don't want to be in the OR."

"Yeah, I do want to be there," Jeff said, glad that he wouldn't be missing the birth of his youngest children.

"Alright, let's go get ready. You may want to stop and let your friends and family know what's happening on our way to the OR."

**TBC**

[Raevengeance]

"I'm sure you're parents will be ecstatic."

"Aly's gonna love it - two new little sisters."

"And a brother at any time now."

"Well, she just wanted sisters, but JJ will enjoy having a brother, I'm sure."

"And you'll enjoy having another boy to play ball with. Get going - I want this to get done with - I'm tired of being pregnant."

As Jeff entered the waiting room their friends and family immediately stood up to find out what the news was. "Well, they're taking Rachel to the OR to do a C-Section."

"She's having trouble with the delivery?" Pat asked, concern evident on her face.

"Well - she's having trouble with this one. Her contractions stopped, but we do have two daughters already. I'm on my way to the OR to be with her for the birth of our son."

"So you're having twins?"

"Triplets, mom. I've got three daughters and two sons, after Rachel delivers the last of the babies she's been carrying. We both knew it was twins - she told me when she told me she was expecting, so the second daughter came as quite a surprise to her, because she knew she was having a boy and a girl."

"Daddy, see Rachel?" Alyssa asked.

"Not yet, princess. But maybe someone will take you down to the nursery to see your little sisters. I'll get you when they say you can go see Rachel, I promise."

"Mmmkay, daddy. G'wama, see baby?"

"Yes, sweetie, we'll go see the baby," Pat answered as Alyssa pulled her towards the door. Jeff quickly followed the pair and met Dr. Matheny in the all.

"Dr. Smythe wanted to make sure you knew where you were going. You need to put on a surgical gown and mask, and scrub your hands really good before you go in. She's waiting for you to get there to make the incision."

"Sorry it took so long," Jeff said as he followed behind her.

Rachel's C-Section went smoothly, with no complications for mom, but the same was not true for her son. He wasn't breathing upon removal from her uterus, so he was quickly rushed to the side of the room for the neonatal team to provide care for him. Jeff was torn between staying near Rachel, who looked scared because she hadn't heard their son cry yet, and going to be near their son.

"Jeff - go ahead, I know you want to be near him - I do to, but I can't. He needs his daddy nearby."

Finally a cry was heard from the side of the room, and Rachel let out the breath she was holding waiting for that melodic sound. "Ms. Crawford, we need your thumbprint here," one of the nursery nurses said as she applied the band which matched the newborn's id band.

"What was it?" Rachel asked, as Jeff returned to her side.

"The cord was just a little tight around his neck, and he had some meconium in his airway, nothing that we didn't correct already," Dr. Matheny said as Dr. Smythe manually cleared the uterus of the placentas from all three babies before closing the incision.

"He'll be alright though, won't he? There won't be any lasting effects?"

"He should be fine, Rachel," Dr. Smythe interjected. "But one of the neonatal specialists is going to check him over just to be sure."

"OK, we're going to get you back to the Labor and Delivery room for your recovery period. Would you like your daughters brought into the room with you? Or would you prefer that they stay in the nursery?"

"Bring them in, and can our son be there as well?"

"I will double check with our neonatologist, but considering he was born quite close to term, I think it should be alright. And remember, you'll be there until your uterus contracts back to a more normal size and you've been able to go to the bathroom on your own."

Once back in the recovery room, the newest additions to the Timmons family - all three of them - rejoined their parents. "Jeff, we really need to come up with names for them."

"You didn't have them picked out already?"

"No, they're your kids too, you should be part of the naming process as well."

"Any ideas in your head?"

"Well...I've got a few names I like, but..."

"What are they? I'm not going to name them by myself."

"Well...I like the names Brittney, Bethany, Bryleigh (pronounced like Riley with a B at the front), Christina, and Destiny or Dominique for the girls."

"And our son?"

"Well...you and Trisha screwed that one up on me. I always said my first son would be named after his father - but you've already got junior."

"Sorry - but other than Jeff?"

"Well...Christian is about the only name I have really thought about that I liked."

"OK, so our son is Christian - did you have a preference for his middle name?"

"Robert."

"OK - Christian Robert, that is a great name," Jeff said. "Now what about our daughters?"

"Well...How about Bryleigh Anne for one of them? And maybe Destiny Rae for the other?"

"Perfect - I think those names fit well for all three of the kids."

"You don't have something else you'd rather name them?"

"Nope, so now what?"

"Can you have a nurse come in here - to get the paperwork started for all three of them."

"Sure, let me go find someone," Jeff said, leaving the room, amazed at how blessed he had become since meeting Rachel.

[Raevengeance]

"Hi, what can I do for you?"

"We've decided on names for them," Rachel answered.

"Let me go get the person who handles all the birth certificate information for you then," the nurse said. "She should be in shortly. But let me get the names for the nursery so they can include it on the charts of the babies."

"OK - Baby A is Bryleigh Anne, Baby B is Destiny Rae, Baby C is Christian Robert - and I noticed on their ID bands that the last name is wrong - it should be Timmons," Rachel said, making sure to spell each of the names so that there wouldn't be any confusion later.

"I will make sure that the last name is corrected on our records - and make sure that is noted on the birth certificate forms, because usually the last name is the same as the mother's."

"I know - I just wanted it corrected for their medical records here."

"No problem, is there anything else that I can do for you?"

"Can our friends and family visit us here or do they need to wait until I get moved to the post-partum area?"

"They can come in here, but you may want to limit the number since we do still need to do regular exams to check on your recovery phase."

"Thank you."

"Would you like me to get them, or would you like to let them know yourselves?"

"I'll let them know," Jeff said.

The first visitors included Alyssa and both of Jeff's parents. Alyssa was still ecstatic over having not one but TWO little sisters now. After a short period of visiting, Jim and Pat left so that some of the others in the waiting room could come and see Rachel, Jeff, and the three youngest members of the Timmons family. As everyone else came and went - Alyssa was a constant - not leaving Rachel's side until Rachel insisted that both Alyssa and Jeff take a short break - and let her get a short nap in while the newborns were also sleeping.

"Alyssa, sweetie," Jeff said as they waited with their family and friends, "why didn't you want to leave Rachel?"

"No wanna lose her."

"We aren't going to lose her, sweetheart."

"But she left us...mommy left us...no want her leave again, or she never come back like mommy," Alyssa said revealing her fears.

"Princess, it's ok. Daddy worked out the problems that made Rachel leave us - so she won't be leaving us again. Now, why don't you go play with Taylor and JJ, ok?"

"OK, daddy."

"Jeff...I know this isn't really any of my business, but...what was Alyssa talking about - her mommy never coming back?" Jenn asked not wanting to intrude on something that was a private matter.

"Trisha died - they found her body on New Year's Day," Jeff said softly. "The divorce that was held up because she couldn't be served the legal papers wasn't necessary. Unfortunately - they didn't identify her body until April," Jeff continued.

"I'm sorry, Jeff. I know you weren't together anymore, but you did have a lot of history with her."

"Thanks, and I did still care for her, we just weren't meant to be married. I just wish, for the sake of the kids that she hadn't died. Although, Rachel won't have to worry about her trying to come and take her family back, which I know was one of Rachel's deeper fears before the divorce was finalized."

"So, what happens with the divorce, since it was finalized?"

"Basically - the court went back and erased it - because technically it never happened since she had p[arse]ed on before the court date."

"So you own two homes now, huh?"

"Actually - one of Trisha's brothers bought the home that she had been awarded in the divorce from her estate - and he even had some plans for what had been my recording studio," Jeff answered.

"Mr. Timmons, sorry to interrupt, but Rachel is asking for you."

"Jenn, Alyssa likes you quite a bit - can you make sure she stays here while I go see what Rachel wants."

"No problem."

[Raevengeance]

"Rachel, what is it?" Jeff asked when he finally got to her room.

"I've cleared the recovery period. They're moving us to post-partum, and I thought you could help transport the little ones," Rachel answered.

"Sure," Jeff answered excitedly.

"Ok, daddy, here is Destiny," Angie (the nurse from labor and delivery) said. "And mom, you have Bryleigh and Christian, right?"

"Both here, but I don't know how safe I feel holding both of them, even if I am being moved by wheelchair."

"We can get someone else, either a nurse or a family member, to help by carrying one of them - or daddy could carry two of them," Angie suggested.

"I'll go get someone," Jeff offered, not feeling the most comfortable with the idea of holding two newborn babies at once either. "Can I take Destiny out to the waiting room with me?"

"Sure, not a problem, and you can let the rest of them know that we're moving. I wouldn't suggest telling them where we're moving right away, just so we can get mom and the babies situated before everyone comes into the room, though."

"OK, I'll be right back," Jeff said. When he returned, Jenn was following close behind.

"Hey - sisser! I thought you had abandoned me or something. Why did you come see me and the kiddies before now?"

"I just thought I'd let the real family see them first," Jenn answered.

"JENNIFER! You are real family! Hell, you put up with me and my constant complaining while I was pregnant - you should have been the FIRST one in the room."

"Thanks, guess I just needed a little reminder," Jenn said sheepishly.

"Well - now that you've been reminded, sooooo let me introduce you to your two new neices and your new nephew. First, Jeff is holding Destiny Rae. I have Bryleigh Anne and Christian Robert. Now - one other thing before we move this party to a different room, Jenn, will you be godmother to my kids?"

"Wow...are you sure?"

"Yes, I am POSITIVE, even though I hadn't mentioned it to Jeff yet. So will you?"

"Jeff, is it ok with you?"

"Whatever Rachel wants - and I agree - you were there for her when I couldn't be, so you deserve that kind of recognition."

"Since you both agree - I will do it, I feel so honored that you asked."

"Good - now, which of the kiddies did you want to help get moved to my new room? Destiny, Bryleigh, or Christian?"

"I'll take any of them - it doesn't matter to me," Jenn answered.

"JENNIFER!"

"OK, Bryleigh."

"Well come get her, dork!" Rachel said laughing, before calling to Angie, "Angie, we're ready to get going."

[Raevengeance]

Once mom and babies were settled inot the post-partum room, all their visitors came to enjoy visiting with the small family. Alyssa immediately crawled up next to Rachel in the full size bed and wouldn't leave. After the rest of Jeff's family and Jenn left for the night and Aly had fallen asleep, Rachel finally brought up a subject that she had been curious about since Jeff had first returned to Arizona with his older children - Alyssa's 'clingy-ness' which had only become worse after Rachel was admitted to the hospital for the birth of the triplets.

"It's hard to explain."

"Well, try Jeff - I think I have a right to know why your daughter won't leave my side for more than five minutes even though her grandparents and favorite cousin are here visiting as well."

"She's afraid you're going to leave again - and never come back, like her mom."

"Trish is going to come back. She can't abandon her children that way."

"Actually, Rae...she's not coming back - she can't."

"What are you talking about - she can't come back?"

"She died, Rae - they found her body on New Year's Day - and they figure she p[arse]ed away sometime late the 31st or early on the 1st. They just didn't identify her body until April."

"Oh, Jeff - I'm so sorry. How have you been holding up with all of this? Why didn't anyone tell me this before now?"

"I'm doing alright - and no one told you since I found you - because I told them not to mention it. I didn't want to risk something happening to the babies or you. But I have no idea why Tina, Mike, Drew, or Lea didn't mention it."

[Raevengeance]

"Jeff - I'm a big girl and could easily handle news like that. I am sorry that I wasn't there when you found out and had to tell the little ones."

"It's ok - I'm sorry for the way I was acting that made you leave. Please, let me make it up to you," Jeff pleaded.

"Jeffers - you have nothing to make up for, you were an idiot - yes, but you aren't still acting that way - that is ALL I want - for you to not blame either of us or our children for what happened between us in January."

"I just - sometimes it's hard - you didn't know what we were doing," Jeff countered.

"DAMN IT! Jeff - I had ONE screwdriver over 2 hours before we went to bed - alcohol is out of your system in an hour - it played NO ROLE in what happened!"

"I can't help that it feels that way, Rachel. I keep telling myself everything you've told me about it NOT being an [arse]ault, but at times, it just comes back in my mind that way. It hasn't happened often recently, at least. But when you left - that was ALL I was thinking."

"Jeff, I'm sorry I left that way, but it was what I felt like I needed to do so I wouldn't be under so much stress while I was pregnant."

"I know - and I do understand, but it's the way I was feeling."

"Jeff - I understand that - but please - try to banish those thoughts - it makes me feel horrible knowing that you are still - 9 months later - beating yourself up for that night."

"I'm doing my best. I swear. Onto a different topic, so we don't wake up Alyssa - how long were you planning on staying in the hospital?"

"Originally, my plan was for 2 days post-delivery, but since they did a c-section - I think I'm pushing for 4 days instead - just to give me more time to heal up from the surgery."

"OK. I think I may send both of the kids home with my folks when they leave then - or we won't have room in the car for all of us returning."

"Jeff - we need someone to drive my car back too...and considering Aly's fears - I think she needs to stay with us. Little J can go with your folks, if he's not having the same type of anxiety about it, but I don't want your daughter more worried about me AND her daddy not coming back to her."

"Are you sure?"

"Jeffrey - you know damn well that I love your kids like they were my own - I'm not going to let your daughter get that worried about both of us leaving her. Now, you take your daughter - and go get some sleep. I need to rest - and this discussion did NOT help me. Come back after you get up in the morning," Rachel said, pressing the call light so a nurse could let her know how the little 3 were doing, since they were sleeping in the nursery so their Oxygen sats could be better monitored."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 7 ~ Heading Home

Three days after giving birth to Destiny, Bryleigh, and Christian, Rachel's doctors approved her discharge from the hospital, and the pediatric team also said that the three newborns were also ready and able to leave the hospital. "Dr. Smythe - what about travelling?" Rachel asked, wanting to return to California so she could get re-settled into her home.

"I wouldn't recommend air travel in the near future, but travelling by car should be alright as long as you take frequent rest breaks."

"What about for the babies?"

"Again, with frequent stops, it should be alright for them as well. I would say you should wait at least six months before flying, although you may want to check with their pediatrician to see what they recommend."

"Thanks - you have been a wonderful doctor, and I'm glad that you were part of my pregnancy."

"I'm glad you were willing to trust me to be part of it."

"Well, I guess it's time for us to head out. Thank you again for everything...and if I end up in Flagstaff - and pregnant again - I hope I can become a patient of yours again."

"I'm sure that could be arranged - but I need you to promise me that you will go into either an urgent care clinic or an emergency ward to get your staples out and have the incision checked."

"I will - now, if you could point me in the direction of the release of information department, I'd appreciate it - so I can get copies of all the medical records for our follow-ups."

"I think that the unit secretary can take care of that request for you - and if not, she can let you know where you need to go to get them."

"Thank you."

[Raevengeance]

The small - but growing - family left the hospital and returned to the apartment that Rachel had shared with Jenn so that she could pack up the things she wanted to take with her before she and Jeff started out on their long trip home. Due to the constraints of needing to fit the triplets and their carseats into the vehicles, as well as the 'no driving' restriction that had been placed on Rachel for the first two weeks she was home, Tina was recruited to drive Rachel's car home - with Alyssa and JJ who had both begged to stay with their daddy and Rachel. The only snag in the plan to get the family of seven home came when Alyssa began demanding to go with Jeff and Rachel - who both felt like they needed to have the triplets in the car with them, leaving no room for Alyssa in their car. Eventually, Alyssa was appeased by the promise that Tina would follow directly behind Jeff and Rachel - so that there would be no chance for them to disappear from the young girl's sight.

"Tina - you really are a lifesaver, you know that right? What would we do without you?"

"You'ld be up the creek without the proverbial paddle," Tina joked. "It's not a problem - I'm just glad I can help you and my brother out with this situation."

"You're right about that, Tina...Don't get too far behind us - or Alyssa will totally freak out."

"I know - and we definitely don't need that."

"Not at all."

The trip was slow going due to the need for frequent breaks because the babies needed to eat or have their diapers changed.

Finally - they made it to Jeff's home and due to the late hour and the fact that Rachel hadn't been in the home in so long, she was easily persuaded to stay with Jeff for at least the first night back in Southern Cal.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 8 ~ Settling In

As they made their way into the house, Rachel became worried about where the three little ones would be able to sleep.

"Rae, don't worry, just follow me," Jeff said, sensing her fears, as he led her upstairs, stopping at the room which was connected to the Master Bedroom suite. "While I was in Arizona with the kids, waiting for you to go into labor, I asked Tina to let people in to work on setting up a nursery for the babies here. And - after you gave birth to triplets instead of twins, I called and had Mike get another crib set up here for the unexpected baby."

"At least they have a room ready for them in one home," Rachel said, tears ready to fall.

"Rae...don't cry, please," Jeff said, unsure what exactly to do. "Can we talk about that?" he asked when she had finally been able to control the tears.

"What is it?"

"Well...I was sort of thinking...maybe...well, maybe we should live together."

"JEFFREY BRANDON!"

"I'm just thinking about you - and my ability to help you take care of our children. If you all live here - I'll be there for you all the time - if you live next door, sure I'll be close, but I won't be as handy for you."

"Jeff, you don't want me and the kids to move in here - we'll cramp your style with all the hot chicks you meet and bring home to enjoy adult entertainment."

"I haven't dated anyone since you left town - and I haven't had sex with anyone since the night we made love either. The ONLY woman I want to spend time with - in an adult relationship - is YOU!"

"I appreciate the sentiment, Jeff, really I do, but we have a LONG way to go before I'll be ready to be with you again."

"I'm willing to wait! Please, stay with me."

"You're lucky I'll need help with the kids. Alright, now which room is mine?"

"Ummm...well...I was hoping you'd share my room."

"JEFFREY!"

"I'm sorry - but it's the closest to the nursery so it would make the most sense for you to stay there."

"Jeff - I won't kick you out of your room or your bed."

"So, I can stay with you tonight?"

"Fine - but no monkey business! And it's only for tonight - after tonight I will get a different room set up for my use."

"I promise, no funny business tonight...and we'll talk about the sleeping arrangements for the future tomorrow."

"Jeff!"

"I said we'd talk - we'll see what we decide. I hope you don't mind that I had all this done without asking you about what kind of theme you wanted for the nursery."

"It's fine, Jeff...I hadn't really thought about the nursery at all - I was too scared about how you would react to finding out about it - and then after you found out - well - I just couldn't think about the nursery, I was too busy dealing with all the false labor and everything."

[Raevengeance]

CHAPTER 9

A month later, Rachel was still trying to convince herself that the plan for her and the babies staying with Jeff was indeed the best solution as far as living arrangements were concerned. She did appreciate the fact that there was around the clock [arse]istance for her in caring for the children while she lived in Jeff's home, yet she felt guilty for sharing Jeff's home and bed when they weren't involved in a relationship together. It wasn't that Jeff needed the room in the bed for anyone else, since he wasn't dating anyone at the moment, but Rachel still felt guilty about it.

"Come on, Rae - I know you're still on maternity leave, but we NEED to discuss things with Michael."

"Jeff, no. I told you - and Michael - I am NOT working for you anymore. I am going to go out and find a normal job when I feel like I can leave the kids at home."

"I've told you - and Michael has told you too - we did NOT accept your resignation - so you are still working for us. I know, you don't want the responsibility of being my personal [arse]istant because of all the travel involved, but I want you to stay on and run my fan club anyway - and Michael needs an [arse]istant to work out of his office - and you can bring the kids to work with you if you want - or work from home even."

"JEFFREY!"

"Look - you need to come talk with Michael - and after that I'll take you out for lunch. You've got to get out of the house a little bit...the only place you've gone since we got back from Arizona is to the doctor's office - for the babies' well-child visits."

"What about the kids?"

"We have a nanny to watch them while we go take care of business."

"Jeff - she was hired to work for you - taking care of Alyssa and JJ, not the three new babes."

"Caring for Bryleigh, Destiny, and Christian was added to her responsibilities when we came back here. And before you start arguing with me about it - she was given a raise for the added responsibilities."

"Really, Rachel. Jeff even offered to hire a second nanny when you came back and settled in here, but I told him I could handle the extra children since JJ and Alyssa are more independant as far as keeping themselve occuppied, and in school during the day."

"Alright - I'll go, but just for a little bit."

"Go get ready, and I'll be waiting for you," Jeff said as Rachel went to get dressed in something that was suitable for a day out in public. "Tam - thank you for telling her that. She needed to get out for a little while, even if it's just a quick lunch."

"No problem, Jeff - I've felt pretty useless here with her around all the time, and I do want to earn my paychecks."

"I know - we'll probably be gone for about 3 hours, and I know the kids will be napping for most of that."

"And if I do need you, I'll call your pager or cell phone to get ahold of you."

"You can call Mike's office too if necessary. But thank you so much."

"No problem."

"Alright, I'm ready," Rachel said, re-entering the kitchen. "I shouldn't be gone for more than an hour."

"Three," Jeff mouthed from behind Rachel.

"No problem, and I'll call Jeff if I need anything while you're gone. I have both of your cell phone numbers and pager numbers. Have a good time, and you really don't need to rush back. There are bottles made up for each of the babies in the fridge - and it is their usual nap time now anyway."

[Raevengeance]

"Hey, I'm glad to see you again," Michael said as Jeff and Rachel walked into his office.

"Hi, Michael. Now, can you explain to me why I needed to be here considering the fact I'm not working for you anymore?"

"Rachel! You are working for us yet - so obviously you NEED to be here for this meeting," Jeff argued.

"Jeff! Stop it! I told Mike I quit when I left town earlier this year - nothing has changed."

"And I told you then that I wasn't allowing you to quit," Michael said, jumping into the conversation. "I specifically told you that YOU would be working out of my offices if Jeff didn't want you to be working as his [arse]istant."

"But I said I wasn't letting you go as my [arse]istant!" Jeff added.

"Sure, I'm just what you need - an [arse]istant who stays in California while you're on the East Coast," Rachel said rolling her eyes.

"You are what I need though," Jeff countered as the office door opened again.

"Hope we're not late," Nick said, unsure of what he, Drew, and Justin were walking into.

"You're not late. We just got here ourselves," Jeff answered.

"Good, now that we're all here. Let's get started."

"I think I'm confused."

"Oh, that's right - you didn't realize, I'm representing 98 Degrees as a group as well as Jeff individually," Michael explained.

"Oh...well, I'm glad you all got a good manager now, but can someone please explain why I needed to be here today?"

"I know you feel like you can't be my personal [arse]istant at the moment - because you don't want to have any responsibility that could involve traveling long distances with the kids - and all of us can respect that," Jeff started.

"But we also appreciate everything that you did with Jeff's VIP Fan Club," Justin interjected.

"And we want you to become head of our fan club," Drew ended.

"What about Cate - and Dev?"

"Mom gave it up in 2001, you know that. And Dev, well, he's too busy with his real job to really take care of it the way it should be done, so we wanted to get someone else to take it over, especially now that we are back from our little break."

"That wasn't a 'little' break, Nick. But why me?"

"Because you've done a great job with mine - and we all think you can do the same type of job for the group's fan club."

"What exactly are you guys looking for me to do?"

[Raevengeance]

"We want you to organize and run our new, and hopefully improved fan club," Drew answered.

"You guys, I appreciate your confidence in me - but...I just don't know that I'll have time to do Jeff's and the group's fan clubs."

"Rae, come on. Mine is running smoothly - all you are really doing now is updating the database as new members join, and publishing the newsletter," Jeff argued.

"And take care of three newborns - and your two kids."

"We have a nanny to help you with that!"

"Jeff, guys, I appreciate the vote of confidence, really, I do - but I just don't think I can do it on my own."

"What if we bring someone in to help you with it?"

"I may consider it. But I'd need to have some say as to who it was."

"Well..." Jeff started as Drew went to open the office door. "What about your friend, Jenn?" he asked as she walked into the meeting room.

"What?"

"Hey, sissa. So...did I find a good job or not?"

"Jenn - what are you doing here?"

"Jeff called me up - and mentioned that you needed some help with something - so here I am. Besides, I wanted to see the little ones, since I haven't seen them since you left."

"You're going to move out here?"

"Actually, we thought that she could work mostly out of her home in Flagstaff," Justin answered.

"Sissa - I can't move out here now. I've still got school - and I can't leave John either."

"Oh...you guys, I need to think about this...really, I do."

"Can you let us know by the end of the week?" Mike asked.

"I'll try. I just need to figure out if I can make it work...and Jenn - it's great to see you again. I've missed you."

"I've missed you too - and the little ones."

"Yeah, you've missed the rugrats more than anything else, I'm sure."

"You know that's not true!"

"Yeah - but anyway, I have to get going...between this whole thing - I've got something else that I'm trying to figure out."

"You do?" Jeff asked surprised.

"Yeah...I'm in the process of trying to get my house fixed up for me and the babies to move - I don't feel right living in your house when right now - there isn't anything between us besides the kids."

[Raevengeance]

"WHAT?!?!"

"You heard what I said."

"And why is this the first I've heard of it?"

"Jeff, I'm sorry - this is NOT the way I wanted to tell you - I was going to do it when we were alone, but you all wanted an answer about this fan club thing. If you want to talk about it more, catch me later. I've got things to do - so I will see you all later. Jenn, I'm not sure how long you're here for, but do you want to come with me or did you have other things you needed to talk to these guys about?"

"I'll come with you," Jenn said turning back towards the door.

"We are talking about that tonight, Rachel!" Jeff called as she walked out the door.

"Sure, don't you forget," Rachel called over her shoulder.

"So, Rae, where are we going?" Jenn asked when they got to Rachel's car.

"Well - first, I've got some shopping to do - for the kiddies. I'm in need of more diapers and formula. And then I do need to hit a furniture store."

"Rae, had you begun working on moving out of Jeff's house before today?"

"Had I started getting ready to move? That depends on your definition of starting," Rae answered. "I knew it had to be done - and it wasn't really until last night that I was able to see if I was going to be capable of doing it on my own."

"Doing it?"

"Taking care of all three little ones at night, alone. Since they were born, Jeff's been right by my side - helping out - and after we got here - even when he wasn't here, his nanny was there to help out. Well, last night he was out with the guys - and I gave Tami the night off - so she was gone. I took care of all five kids all by myself. I can take care of my three on my own."

"Why, Rae? Why do you want to move out?"

"Because, Jeff deserves to have his home to himself - so he can bring home the girls he sees...without me cramping his style by sleeping in his room."

"Hold up! You share a bedroom with him?!? And you say all that's between you two is the kids?"

"It's true. His room is the only one close to the room he set up as a nursery for the little ones. So either I stayed there or I stayed a long ways away from my babies. It wasn't an easy choice - but I needed to be close to the little ones."

"But..."

"Jenn - we barely talk. I can't keep living in his house if the only reason I'm there is that we have three children together. I won't take the kids far from him, but that is not fair to either Jeff or me. I want to get married! And quite frankly, the way Jeff is treating me, I don't think his feelings for me are the same as they were when I left town earlier this year."

"What makes you say that?"

"Like I said, we barely talk to each other. We've watched movies - at the house - and he won't even put his arm around me - and before you say it's because of the kids, that never stopped him before. I'm not saying tongue action - but cuddling."

"I think you need to talk to Jeff about this - and find out EXACTLY what he's feeling towards you," Jenn replied, knowing from her phone conversation with Jeff when he called to offer her the job that he was still madly in love with her friend, but he was just waiting for some sort of signal from her that she was ready to advance their relationship beyond the friendship stage.

"I'm planning on it - but it's not like it's going to make much of a difference. Let's just drop that topic for now, ok? We'll hit the store for the diapers and formula then head back to his place so you can see the little ones again, ok?"

"Sure, sounds like a good plan to me."

"Then, if you want, we can take JJ and Aly to Chuck E Cheese for pizza or something?"

"Maybe we should just pick something up on the way home?"

"Home - at the moment, I don't have a home...I'm a guest who can be kicked out without any notice."

"Jeff would NEVER do that to you!"

"He would if he found a girlfriend."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 10

Jeff returned home from the meeting with the other members of 98 Degrees extremely upset that the woman he loved had never even mentioned that she was considering packing up herself and their children and moving out of his house. He thought things were going so well for the two of them. As he walked in the door, Jenn stood up from her seat where she was watching tv with Rachel. "I am going to go find Alyssa and JJ - and I'll keep them busy while you two talk...and don't worry about the other three either. If they need anything, I've got it covered."

"Thanks, Jenn," Jeff said as she walked past him and through the door. "Can we turn that off so we can talk?"

"Whatever - it's your house, I'm just a guest here."

"Rachel!"

"What? It's the truth. I am here as a guest in your house."

"Rachel, I don't want you to be a 'guest'. I want this to be your home!"

"Well you don't make it seem that way! Jeff - we never TALK even! I'm moving out so that you can move on with your life - and bring girls home instead of sharing a bed with me when obviously you don't want me there."

"RACHEL! You don't know how hard it has been to control myself so that you WOULDN'T LEAVE! I want you here - I want you here as my wife, not just as the mother to three of my children. I just didn't want you to feel like I was pushing you too fast."

"Jeff - you wouldn't even talk to me! How can I trust that you really feel that way when you haven't hardly said three words to me since we got back."

"I'm sorry, I really am. Please, stay with me...let me win your heart back."

"Jeff - you never lost my heart. I loved and missed you everyday I was gone. And I'll stay here - on one condition."

"What is that?"

"Our relationship becomes more than just two parents raising their children together. I want a sexual relationship with you, Jeff...and if you don't feel like that is going to happen, I want to know."

"I...I don't think I'm ready for us to become sexually intimate, baby."

"Did I say it had to happen tonight? No - just that the relationship would progress to that point at sometime in the hopefully near future. Jeff, I want it, but if you aren't ready right now, fine. But...I want us to at least be comfortable making out and cuddling together. I've missed that since I got back...and it made me feel like you didn't want me to be here."

"Oh baby, I'm sorry. Why didn't you say anything?"

"Because Jeff, I wasn't going to push you into something you didn't want, and you always said that the kids and I were here so that you could help with the kids."

[Raevengeance]

"That was one reason - but I wanted us to find each other again too."

"You never showed it...and hold it - did you say you wanted me here as your WIFE??"

"Ummm...yeah, I did. Rachel, you know I've loved you since we met."

"So? You haven't been treating me like you want me to be your wife."

"Rae, please, calm down. I just...I didn't want you to leave again if I got too close too soon after you got back here. You left me for seven months already, I didn't want to lose you and my children for good."

"Listen, Jeff - obviously we are both guilty of not saying how we have been feeling since I got back here. From now on - we agree that our actions will accurately reflect our feelings - and we won't be afraid to tell the other person what we're thinking or how we're feeling, ok?"

"OK...but you're not going to move now are you?"

"Jeff, honestly, I think I need some time away from you. Maybe not a full-blown move, but time away."

"I've got it! I'll spring for you to stay anywhere you want for the weekend - or week even. And while you're gone - I'll take care of all the kids - so you'll truly get your time alone to think, ok?"

"That sounds fair. I'll take a weekend - but if I need more, I'll let you know, ok?"

"Definitely. I just want you to be happy."

"Then treat me like you did before we had sex."

"I'm trying."

"I know that's all you can do, but please, try harder."

"I will."

"Jeff...I really am sorry about breaking that news to you while the other guys were there."

"It's ok - we were pressing for info from you - so you had to say it."

[Raevengeance]

"I'll get some things packed - and find a hotel to stay at tomorrow. Jeff, I do appreciate the time to find myself and what I need."

"You deserve it, Rae...and I'm sorry I haven't been acting the way I've been feeling."

"Jeff - we're past that ok? We're not going to bring up the past again, ok? We both said we were going to be better at expressing our feelings - so what's done is done - and we're going to work on the present and future."

"OK," Jeff said, leaning closer wanting to kiss the woman he loved.

"Ummm...I don't mean to interrupt," Jenn said peaking her head in the door.

"It's alright," Rae said as she pulled back. "Was there something you needed?"

"I was just wondering...would it be ok if I took Alyssa and JJ to get something to eat quick?"

"Sure...let me get you some money to buy it," Jeff said, reaching for his wallet.

"It's ok. Did you want me to bring you home something?"

"Actually - do you mind watching JJ and Alyssa tonight?" Jeff asked.

"It wouldn't be a problem, why?"

"Well, I was thinking of maybe taking Rae out on a real date...if she'll let me that is."

"What about the other three?"

"The nanny is watching them, Rae. Can we, though, go out on a real date?"

"Jeff..."

"Rae...go out with the man. Enjoy yourselves."

"Jenn...stop it."

"Stop what? Telling you what you told me? You're the one who used to sit and regret not going out on dates with Jeff while he was seperated. Guess what - he's single - he's asking you on a REAL DATE - GO!"

"But the kids..."

"The kids will be fine. I'll take JJ and Aly to get a quick bite to eat, then I'll bring them back here and if Tami needs any help with the little ones, I'll be here to help her, ok?"

"Come on, Rae...please?" Jeff said, wondering if he could still get her to agree to anything by pouting.

"Rachel - you owe it to both you and Jeff to do this...go," Jenn interjected.

"Fine! But we aren't going to be going out for very long."

"Wrong, this is a real date. I'm taking you to dinner and then either dancing or to a movie, we'll decide the post-dinner activities while we're at dinner," Jeff countered. "Now, why don't you go get ready."

[Raevengeance]

"Where are we going? What should I be wearing for this date?"

"We are going out and doing this right...so get dressed up nicely," Jeff said, wondering where he could get reservations for the evening at this late hour.

"OK," Rae said, still not thrilled with the way people were dictating the way she lived her life.

While Rachel got ready for their date, Jeff called and was able to find a very exclusive restaurant that could still fit them in for dinner that evening...for a price, but to treat the woman he loved the way he should have been since she moved there - it was worth it.

"OK, I'm ready," Rachel said, coming back downstairs.

"Good. Let me go tell Tam the plans for tonight quick," Jeff said.

After Jeff left the room, Rae looked to Jenn. "Jenn...I don't know if I like this idea."

"Rae, just relax and enjoy yourself. I heard your discussion with Jeff earlier - this is his effort at showing you how he's feeling about you."

"Yeah - and tomorrow it's gonna be back to him not talking to me or telling me what's going on between the two of us."

"Rae...give him a chance. Remember, you left him for seven months because you became pregnant the first time you two shared a bed and made love. I can pretty much guarantee you that he's just trying to avoid having you disappear on him again."

"I know - it just hurts sometimes, ok? And I'm not used to him being so - un-demonstrative about his feelings. At least before I got pregnant, he was showing me he wanted me. Now, I seriously wonder sometimes."

"Just remember - let him know how you're feeling, and if you are feeling neglected or taken for granted, he'll find a way to fix it."

"I know. Are you sure you can't move out here?"

"You know I can't, sissa. But...maybe I'll come spend time with you when the spring semester gets finished, ok?"

"Yeah, I know - I just am feeling so alone right now...the only people I know - I know because of Jeff."

"Sissa, you know I'm always only a phone call away if you need someone to talk to."

"I know - and I've got the rest of our island girls too...but still...sometimes you just need someone there."

"Rae, is there anything I can do to help with that?" Jeff asked, having returned to the room in time to hear the last comment by Rae.

"How can you help fix the problem that everyone I know out here is either one of your friends or family members?"

"Rae, please, maybe we can figure something out tomorrow on that, ok?" Jenn said, not wanting this issue to hurt the date that Jeff was trying to use to romance her best friend.

"Alright...I will do my best to forget about that for tonight and just enjoy myself. Are you sure you're gonna be ok watching JJ and Aly, Jenn?"

"Hey - I watch my neices and nephews all the time - what do you think?"

"Sorry - I just don't want you to feel like you HAVE TO babysit or anything."

"It's fine. We're going to have fun tonight. Now you go and do the same, ok. You have nothing to worry about...now get out of here, you two!" Jenn said, trying to push Jeff and Rachel both to the door.

"We're going...thanks again for babysitting, Jenn. I do appreciate it."

"And I appreciate the fact that you are going to treat my sissa like the princess that she is. Now get!"

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 11 ~ Date Night

When Jeff returned to the living room, he immediately whisked Rae off on what he hoped would be the first of many 'date nights' for them.

"So, where are we going?" Rae asked, after getting into Jeff's car.

"You can wait until we get there," Jeff answered. "I want it to be a surprise."

"A surprise? Jeff, I hate surprises!"

"Well, you better get used to them."

"Jeffrey!"

"RACHEL!" Jeff countered. "Please, enlighten me, what is wrong with me wanting to surprise the woman that I love?"

"Nothing, really, I guess...I just don't like them."

"Well, I like giving them, so you need to get used to them and hopefully you'll start liking them."

"Fine," Rachel said, slumping next to the car door, wondering how she could get Jeff to at least limit the number of surprises he gave her.

"Here we are," Jeff said as they pulled into the line for valet parking at one of the most prestigious restaurants in town - The Golden Coast.

"Jeff, why did you bring me here?"

"Because I wanted to. Is there something wrong?"

"Jeff, this is the most expensive restaurant in town. Let's go somewhere else that isn't as fancy or pricey."

"Rae, this was my date to choose where we went. Next time we go out - you can pick the restaurant," Jeff offered as a compromise.

"Next time?"

"Yeah - or are you trying to tell me now that you don't want to be involved with me?"

"No...that's not it at all...I'm just surprised you're thinking ahead to a future date is all."

"Why is that surprising? Rae, I love you - and I was serious earlier...I want you to be my wife."

"Just...nevermind. Let's get going - the valet is getting a little fidgety there," Rae said, as she and Jeff got out of the car and made their way into the restaurant.
~~~~~~~~

Author's Note:
* Restaurant is purely fictional (although - I do think that's a pretty neat name for a restaurant located on the coast in Cali...)

**Just out of sheer curiousity - if you're reading this - could you please just reply to let me get an idea of how many people are reading this. I just want to know how many people venture into this story.
Thanks :)

[Raevengeance]

**Warning - Slight adult content included - do not read if it offends**





















Once inside, the pair was quickly seated. As they ate, they discussed their desires for their continuing relationship and possible future life together - as husband and wife. The pair both claimed to want to be married to eachother, but only time would be able to answer the questions about how many of their dreams and desires would become reality.

As they finished their desserts and waited for their waitress to bring the bill for the meal, Jeff broached the topic of what was going to be happening next. "So, where do you want to go from here?" he asked, not missing the look of wanton desire flashing through Rae's eyes.

"I want to go somehwere that you can screw me until I can't remember either of our names," Rae answered softly as she ran her hand up his thigh, feeling him hardening from the thought and her touch. "But, I know you don't want me that way, so I guess we could just go back to your place and watch a movie or something."

"A movie is good," Jeff answered, trying to bring his hormones back under control so he wouldn't take Rachel by force for a second time in a year. "But, for the record, it's not that I don't want you that way - it's that I want to make sure both of us are ready to move forward to a relationship like that before I make love to you again. I didn't 'screw' you the last time - and I never will screw you. When we bond intimately, it's NOT screwing - it is an intimate expression of our LOVE for each other."

[Raevengeance]

After paying the bill and getting the car from the valet, Jeff drove out of the parking lot and pulled over a couple of blocks from the restaurant. "Rachel, do you understand WHY I said what I did?" Jeff asked, because based on her actions, she was extremely upset.

"Do I understand that you have no interest in me sexually? NO! Do I understand that you don't consider sex between us screwing? Yes!"

"Damn it!" Jeff said, slamming his fist on the dashboard and very glad that he had pulled over and stopped the car to have this discussion. "I am TRYING to do the right thing with you! I jumped into a sexual relationship with Trisha - and I'm NOT [freak]ing up my life like that again! I want to know that we have more in common than what happens between the sheets! But you know something - if you REALLY want it that bad, maybe I should just let my hormones take control - and show you just how much I want to screw your brains out! But you know something else, if I did that, you'd run scared and screaming again. You aren't ready for that kind of emotion from me - you have NO CLUE what can happen!"

"Jeff," Rachel said, finally understanding WHY he kept pushing her away, "I...I'm sorry. I won't push you again. When you're ready, let me know."

"Rae...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to explode like that," Jeff said, realizing that she had put as much physical distance between them as she could in the car.

"I know you didn't, Jeff. Let's go get a couple of movies we can watch tonight - and make out during if that's not pushing too far too fast for you."

"Where are we watching them?"

"Well, your place - or my place next door is still furnished with the electricity still hooked up."

"Let's go to your place. This way neither of us will get too involved in taking care of the kids since we've left them in very capable hands."

"OK - but we need to let Jenn and Tam know where we are going to be."

"That's a perfect plan. Do you think we could maybe spend the night there?"

"Why would we want to do that, Jeff?"

"Just in case we do make progress in our relationship," Jeff answered.

"What?"

"Just in case - after the movies - we decide to go dance on your bed."

"You dance?? And why would we be dancing on a bed?"

"Rachel! I meant in case we do decide to have sex. I was just TRYING to be polite about it."

"Oh...yeah, let's plan on staying overnight."

"Good. You call home on my cell and let Tam and Jenn know."

"Jeff...I...I don't want to get my hopes up, but do you think..."

"Rae, I'm not planning anything. What happpens, happens - ok? And don't go turning into some devious vixen to get me to make love to you."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 12 ~ The Next Day

Rachel woke up the next morning, confused, because she wasn't in the room where she was now accustomed to waking up, then she remembered her 'date night' with Jeff. As she rolled over to wake him up - she was startled to find that he was gone already.

"Hey, princess," Jeff said, carrying a tray with breakfast into the room. "Get your cute little [arse] back into bed, I brought you breakfast."

"I...I thought you ran out on me again, Jeff."

"I didn't. I just had to run next door to get our breakfast. I'm glad I got back before you got too freaked out about me leaving though."

"I'm glad too...but I was scared you were leaving me."

"Baby, last night was the best night I've had in a LONG time. I should have told you where I was going, but you looked so peaceful sleeping, I just couldn't disturb you."

"Jeff, don't get upset about this question - but...did we actually make love last night?"

"What do you think the answer to that is?" Jeff asked.

"I don't think we did. I think all we did was cuddle and talk."

"You're right. That was all we did last night. Rae, why were you confused about that?"

"Well...my dreams last night...they had us doing more and I guess that I just was mixing up my dreams with reality."

"You wish we had actually made love though, don't you?"

"Well...sort of...but I know that if we didn't have sex last night at least one of us must have thought that it wasn't the right time for it...and I can deal with that...as long as you let me know that we will eventually."

"We will, princess. Now, sit up and enjoy your breakfast."

[Raevengeance]

After the couple ate their breakfast in bed, Rachel go an 'odd' sensation. As she turned to Jeff, she noticed the 'hunger' in his eyes - and she didn't think he was hungry for more food. "Jeff..."

"What is it?"

"Why are you looking at me like that?"

"Like what?"

"Like a sex-crazed maniac. Jeff - did eating make you hornier than usual?"

"It may have...you were so seductive when you ate - I know it wasn't intentional - but damn woman - I want to devour YOU now."

"What happened to waiting?" Rachel asked, surprised by this sudden change in Jeff's demeanor.

"Huh?"

"You - shower - ice cold - NOW!" Rachel said, suddenly feeling slightly trapped by this Jeff who obviously wanted to have a sexual relationship with her.

"But you want me, I know you do," Jeff said.

"But YOU told ME that WE were waiting."

"I changed my mind. Rae, being this close to you - it's driving me insane. I thought I could control it - but I don't think I can. Please, make love to me now," Jeff pleaded, as Rachel saw the evidence of his need straining against the confines of his boxers.

"Are you sure? I mean 100% positive that you won't regret this later?" Rachel asked, not wanting a repeat of what happened following their first sexual experience.

"Absolutely. Please, Rae - I need you so badly," Jeff said, wondering what he could do to convince her he was serious.

"You need to GET OFF so badly, get it right. But, since you asked so nicely, get the food off the bed and make me yours," Rachel said smiling.

"Are you sure?" JEff asked, not wanting to pressure Rachel into something she wasn't ready to do.

"Ask me again and I'll change my answer."

"No thank you! I don't want a change in your answer," Jeff said, as he hastily moved to get the remnants of their breakfast off the bed. While he was doing that, Rachel crawled out of bed. "Hey! Where do you think you're going?"

"I need a shower, so I was going to take one."

"Why not wait until after we're done?"

"How about we take care of both at the same time?" Rachel asked, running her hands down Jeff's chest.

"What?"

"I want to see you - WET - and being in the shower would take care of that for me."

"But what about..."

"Jeffie - haven't you ever scored the big one in a bathroom? Particularly in the shower?"

"What?"

"I want you - to screw me - in the shower." Rachel replied seductively.

"HEY!"

"Whatever - we'll be making love - but the act is screwing, humping, [freak]ing, rutting, whatever the hell you want to call it. Now, are you going to do it, or are we NOT having sex this morning?"

"I'm on my way," Jeff said as he hurried to follow Rachel into the master bathroom. "Holy crap! When did you redo the bathroom?"

"Shortly after I moved in," Rachel answered. "I have wanted you to do me in the shower since I caught a glimpse of you coming out of the shower with just a towel during one of your appearances last year, soooo I had my shower converted into a double shower so you and I could have some fun - eventually...unless you don't want to enjoy it with me."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 13 ~

When the pair finally emerged from Rachel's little used home, they went to Jeff's and were immediately greeted by Alyssa.

"Wow, nice welcome," Jeff said, as he gave Alyssa the attention she was wanting from him.

"Rae, can we talk?" Jenn asked, pulling her to the side.

"Sure, what is it?"

"Alone, please."

"Alright, Rachel said, following Jenn into the guest room that Jeff had designated as hers while she was visiting. "What's up?"

"What's going on with Alyssa?"

"What do you mean?"

"Last night, when I took her and JJ to eat, she was fine - but when we got back - and you and Jeff weren't home, she freaked out. I have NEVER seen a kid react that way - I seriously thought I was going to need to call you two back from your date."

"She was sort of acting like that while we were in Flagstaff before the babies were born. Jeff told me it has something to do with her not wanting to be abandoned by her family."

"Rae - it's TERRIBLE! You and Jeff NEED to do soemthing about it. I am seriously surprised that Jeff was able to go on the tour considering her reaction last night."

"If she's with a family member, it's not as bad. Tina and Taylor stayed with the kids and Tam while Jeff was on the road last spring and summer...so she didn't have that kind of reaction."

"Ahhhh, being with family means that she's not being abandoned by her entire family, I get it."

"Not sure exactly, but it does help at least."

"So...anyway, did you and Jeff have a good date? And considering the time, I'm guessing that you did."

[Raevengeance]

"Last night was definitely fun, although, we did have more fun this morning than we did last night."

"What?"

"Last night we spent talking - and did some making out. This morning, Jeff brought me breakfast in bed - and ended up becoming a complete horndog, so we had the adult fun he wouldn't agree to have the night before."

"Rae, are you sure you're ready for that?"

"Yes, Jenn, I am. We were both completely sober and we both wanted it so neither of us can realistically think we forced the other - and unless for some unknown reason, my birth control doesn't work, we didn't risk another surprise pregnancy. And...based on the conversation we had last night, I have a feeling Jeff is thinking marriage."

"Why do you say that?"

"He mentioned something about us starting to plan our wedding."

"Wow. Moving pretty fast though, don't you think?"

"Maybe a little - but we were together for 8 months before we had sex for the first time, and we've been back together for two months before last night."

"Yeah, and there was a seven month period where Jeff couldn't find you anywhere."

"Jenn, I appreciate the concern, but I think I can judge when things are right."

"I know - really, I do."

"I know, and I do appreciate that you're trying to keep an eye on things for me."

"So, what did you two decide about a wedding?"

"Honestly, nothing. We sort of started the discussion with the honeymoon and well, Jeff got turned on and we sort of ended up mostly making out more than talking."

"You do realize you're both worse than a couple of teenagers. Why wasn't this an issue while you were both in Flagstaff."

"We weren't really together there - so we weren't doing that. Besides, I was pregnant and feeling like a whale, you know that - and his kids were always around - and I just don't like the idea of having a young and impressionable audience around when I'm making out with him."

"But..."

"Jenn, Jeff and I were given the freedom to be able to enjoy those pleasurable activities because we didn't have the kids with us."

"Ok, so what's going to happen now?"

"We're setting up a 'date-night' every week where the two of us can go have fun without worrying about the little ones seeing something that they shouldn't."

"Good idea."

"Thanks, I think it was actually Jeff's idea. He needs to have it marked on the calendar - since it's so rare that he has good ideas."

"Sissa, you shouldn't say that about him."

"Maybe not, but he's such a cutie - and he makes it easy to tease him."

[Raevengeance]

<span style="font-family:Arial">***WARNING! ADULT CONTENT (IMPLIED) FOLLOWS! DO NOT READ IF IT OFFENDS!***</span>








"Hey, where did you two disappear to?" Jeff asked, when the girls finally reappeared.

"Just had some catching up to do. So, Jenn, what do you want to do today?" Rae answered.

"Well, you could walk me through what I'll be doing for the fan clubs."

"That'll take all of 10 minutes. What else ya wanna do?"

"Well, I could watch the kids - and give you and Jeff more time to talk without being interrupted."

"Thanks, Jenn, we appreciate that," Jeff said, glad to be getting more time with the woman he loved, and hoping he'd find the right way to give her the ring that he had purchased to give her back in January.

"But we aren't going to take you up on that offer," Rachel interjected.

"Why not?" Jenn asked, wondering if Rae didn't trust her to take care of the kids anymore.

"Because, you're only here for a few days. Jeff's always here pestering me."

"Pestering you?" Jeff repeated. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't YOU the one begging me to go deeper and harder this morning - who was screaming that you couldn't get enough?" Jeff asked causing Rachel to blush.

"Timmons! If you say ONE MORE WORD - you are going to need to find a new girlfriend if you ever want to have sex again, because I will PERMENATELY CUT YOU OFF!"

"Right, I doubt that considering what was happening this morning."

"Don't test me, Jeffrey! I left town once before - and I can and WILL leave again if I need to...and if I go - the kids go with me!"

"I'm sorry," Jeff said, realizing just how serious Rae was about the threat.

"Thank you. Remember, what happens in our room - stays in our room...and doesn't get told to other people, alright?"

"Alright..." Jeff said, hanging his head, slightly ashamed at the way he had acted.

[Raevengeance]

~Chapter 14 ~

"Sissa, why did you tell Jeff you'd leave him?" Jenn asked as the pair left to discuss Jenn's new position working for 98 Degrees.

"Because - he had no right to talk like he was. Jenn, it's hard enough for me to push my prudishness off to be open with Jeff - but if he starts talking like that about me I don't think I could force myself to be as open with him when we're alone together."

"But to threaten to take his kids away?"

"Jenn, it's cruel I know, but it's the one way I know I can get him to change his behavior. And it's not like I wouldn't allow Jeff to see them - but they wouldn't be living as close to him as they are right now."

"I see what you're saying, sissa - but they're your kids - they aren't some bargining chip."

"Jenn - he needs to know if I leave, the kids go with me. That's ALL I said."

"I know - but it did also sound like you were using the kids as leverage to get him to do what you want."

"Jenn - Jeff should know I would NEVER keep him away from his kids - I know they mean the world to him."

"But what if he heard it the way I did? Rae, you gotta make sure he knows you would never consider keeping him completely away from his kids."

"I will, later. Right now, you and I are going to talk Fan Club."

[Raevengeance]

"OK, so how are we going to split responsibility for the fan club?" Jenn asked, hoping that she had found a great job opportunity for herself.

"Well, I'm not exactly sure. Don't get me wrong, I know I'll need the [arse]istance - particularly since I'm suddenly responsible for running 2 seperate fan clubs - but the guys really threw this whole idea at me the other day. I can think of a couple different options where you are extremely involved...and another where you are still helping, but not quite as extensively."

"What are the options you're thinking of?" Jenn asked.

"OK - the first option would involve me processing the mail - and taking the funds and getting them cashed - then forwarding the member info to you and you would then enter the information into our database and send out the membership kits. The second is a slight alternative to that in which you do the entry to the database, and i still send out the fan packs and take care of the banking for the organization."

"I'd be willing to work with either of those ideas, but honestly, it sounds like it would honestly be better if we were in the same town instead of two different ones."

"I know - which is why I came up with idea three - and it's still a HUGE HELP for me - we would send you all the items that go into the fan club packets - you [arse]emble them into packages so they're ready to be mailed...and then ship them back to me so as memberships are entered into our database, I print the mailing labels for the package, add the membership card and send the package out."

"That sounds like it would work - but isn't that going to mean you're paying twice for the shipping package, if I'm mailing them to you and then you're mailing them out to the fans?"

"No, I'll send the stuff to you in a large box - you pack the completed packs in the box - and we'll arrange pickup of the box when it's full and ready to go."

"Oh...that sounds like it would definitely be the best option."

"So, is that the proposal that we submit to Michael and the guys?"

"It sounds like it would work to me."

[Raevengeance]

~ Chapter 15 ~

When Rae and Jenn returned to Jeff's house, Rachel was surprised to see both Jeff's driveway as well as the driveway at the home she owned both full of cars. "What the hell?"

"What is it, Rae?"

"I'm just confused, Jenn. Why in the heck are all these cars here?"

"Maybe Jeff's throwing a party?" Jenn suggested.

"He could have at least mentioned it if he was," Rachel muttered, parking her car in the only spot still available.

"Rae, you're home," Jeff said, greeting her as she walked into the house.

"Jeff, what's going on here?"

"I have a surprise for you," Jeff answered.

"And what would that be?"

"Well, for the past few weeks I've been working on getting the details of this surprise all worked out for you..." Jeff started.

"And what is 'this surprise'?" Rachel asked.

"Give me a minute, will ya? Geez, you're impatient."

"That's an understatement," Jenn muttered under her breath.

"Well, I thought it would be nice if you could meet your friends - the ones you talk to online - soooo I arranged for them all to come into town to visit with you for a little while...and while you and Jenn were out, the guys were at the airport picking them all up and bringing them here," Jeff explained. "For the rest of the week, you all have a suite at the Sheraton so you can enjoy yourselves, without me or the kids interrupting your 'girl time'."

"Sure, Timmons. Now please tell me the truth."

"That IS the honest-to-god truth, Rae."

"Hey, Rae," several girls said, coming out of Jeff's family room and into the hallway.

"See, I told you," Jeff said, a smile plastered on his face.

"Jeff, can we talk please?" Rachel asked.

"Sure, what is it?" Jeff asked.

"In private," Rachel added. "No offense girls, but this is something Jeff and I need to talk about alone."

"Let's go wait in here," Jenn said, directing the girls back into the family room.

[Raevengeance]

"Where are the guys?" Rachel asked when she and Jeff were alone.

"In the game room, why?"

"I don't want anyone to hear this - so let's go to your studio."

"Rae, what's wrong?"

"Studio, Jeff!"

Once the pair made it to the recording studio that Jeff had put into his home, Jeff repeated his question," Rachel, what did I do wrong?"

"Why, Jeff?"

"Why what?" Jeff asked confused.

"Why did you fly them down here?"

"What's wrong with me bringing your friends out here to meet you?"

"Jeff - it wasn't a good idea. I'm glad they've all had the chance to meet all four of you guys, but you really should have mentioned it to me before doing this."

"It wouldn't have been a surprise for you then!"

"Jeffrey!"

"What? You get pissed at me when I don't do anything for you, and now you're pissed because I did try to do something to surprise you. I just can't win with you, Rachel!"

"You can't win with me - and you don't ever try to touch me either! After the other night we spent together I had hoped we could find more 'adult' time for us. Obviously that isn't something that interests you though. Maybe I should finish getting my own house in order - and move back next door."

"You can't do that!" Jeff exclaimed. "I need you and the kids here."

"You sure as hell don't act like you do. Why, Jeff? Why do you blow so hot and cold on our physical (aka sexual) relationship?"

"I...I'm afraid. The last time we were together physically, you disappeared for months. I don't want that to happen again."

"Jeff - don't you get it? I left last time because you kept referring to what happened the night we made love as a rape. I couldn't stand to see you feeling that way about what happened between us - and after finding out that I was pregnant, I just couldn't let your view of that night affect me or our unborn children."

"But..."

"Jeff, as long as you recognize - and acknowledge - that our sexual relationship is concensual, I won't leave you because we're having sex."

"Oh..."

"Oh is right. Now, I am going to spend time with the girls, but the night they leave, we are leaving the kids in the care of their nanny while mommy and daddy get down and dirty with something I picked up for us today while I was gone."

"You got something for us - for the bedroom?" Jeff asked, slightly intrigued.

"Don't go getting overly excited. Your surprise for me is making it so you don't get to enjoy it for a few days, and it's not anything extremely kinky anyway. I just know that I'm extremely timid in the bedroom, so I found a game that will hopefully help me get past some of my quirks."

"Princess, you don't need to do that. I love you - quirks and all."

"You'll get tired of them soon enough, and this is something I want to try, maybe we can even use this on nights when we're responsible for the kids."

"Rae, are you sure? I don't want you doing something just because you think that's what I want you to do."

"I'm sure. I just wish we were doing this tonight - so I don't talk myself out of it."

[Raevengeance]

~*~Chapter 16~*~

Rae and her friends enjoyed doing the typical 'tourist' thing until the girls had to leave early Sunday morning. Rachel took the girls to drop them off at the airport. While the girls were off sight-seeing, Jeff stepped up and took responsibility for [arse]isting the nanny with the care of all his children, and that included Sunday as the girls were all leaving - which also happened to be Tami's day off every week.

"Girls, I'm gonna miss you," Rae said as she helped them all get their luggage to the airline counters to check in.

"Hey, we'll still have our online communications," Leslie replied, trying to keep things positive.

"I know, but it really isn't the same, you know?"

"Well, we'll just have to get together again - SOON!" Jenn answered.

"We'll see. And I guess there may be a wedding comming up in the future - if Jeff would ever stop avoiding my questions."

"You proposed?" Kay asked.

"No...no, I didn't. Jeff just mentioned something about it the other night - before you girls came into town - but he hasn't told me how serious he was about the subject - or answered any of my questions about what he wanted in the wedding."

"Well get an answer from him," Jenn said.

"I keep trying, but he tends to ignore those questions. I know part of it comes from the wedding he and Trisha had - she didn't let him have any say in how the wedding happened - so he isn't giving me any input either."

"Keep pushing him, he'll eventually answer your questions."

"I know, Kay, but he's driving me insane by not answering me," Rae replied as the group made their way to the security checkpoint. "Well, I guess I better get back - or Jeff may lose his mind. It's Tami's day off, so he has all five kids by himself."

"See you soon," Leslie said, as she was the first to go through security.

"Yes, and I expect an email from each and every one of you letting me know that you got home safely."

"Yes, mom!" her friends all replied jokingly as they easily p[arse]ed through the metal detectors.

[Raevengeance]

**Back at the house**

"Jeff, why didn't you see if your nanny could change her day off this week?" Drew asked as he tried to comfort Destiny while Jeff juggled both Bryleigh and Christian.

"Rae does this every week, I should be able to handle it for ONE day!"

"Well, you aren't," Nick said as he played 'horsey' for Alyssa and JJ.

"Shut up, Lachey!"

"No thanks, you do nothing for me," Nick joked.

"Nick, you aren't helping, why don't you just leave?" Jeff asked.

"You want to try this completely alone?" Nick asked.

"What? Drew, you'd stay and help me, wouldn't you?" Jeff asked.

"Sorry, Jeff, but Nick's my ride today."

"I wish the little ones were a little older - at least then they could tell me what they wanted," Jeff mumbled wishing that Rachel would get home soon to help him.

"Now you know how I feel - every day I'm alone with the little rugrats," Rae said, standing in the doorway taking in the scene.

"Yes, I do, but I'm at a bigger disadvantage - I've got the idiot trying to help."

"That's true. Aly, can you go get the nuks(pacifiers) from the cribs upstairs?"

"Uh huh," Alyssa said, heading upstairs.

"What?" Jeff asked confused.

"The kids like their pacifiers - they'll calm down once they get them," Rae answered as Alyssa ran into the room and gave each of the babies their pacifiers, and as Rachel had predicted the infants calmed instantly.

"Why didn't YOU think of that, Jeff?" Nick asked, greatful for the quiet.

"I'm surprised Alyssa didn't get them sooner," Rae said, wondering just what kind of man she was involved with at the moment.

"Alyssa was too busy playing with her Uncle Nick to help her daddy."

"And now answer Nick's question, Jeff. Why didn't you know to get the pacifiers for them?"

"Ummm..."

"Admit it - it's because SOMEONE doesn't spend enough time with the kids to KNOW it," Rae said when he tried avoiding the question.

"What?" Drew asked.

"He doesn't. He puts their care off to either Tami or me all the time."

"It IS what she's paid to do," Jeff interjected.

"JEFFREY BRANDON TIMMONS!"

"I think that is our cue to leave. We'll see you later," Drew said, handing Destiny to Rachel before pulling Nick towards the door.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 17

"What the HELL was that supposed to mean, Jeff?" Rachel asked after all five children had been put down for a nap.

"What?"

"That comment about 'she's paid to do it'," Rachel answered.

"It's true! Tami is paid to take care of the kids!" Jeff protested trying to redeem himself.

"And what about me? You don't tend to do much on Tami's days off either. Am I paid to take care of them too?"

"You're not paid to do it, but you're their mother..."

"I am NOT Alyssa or little J's mother!" Rachel fumed.

"You are so - they call you mommy."

"That doesn't matter! If they called me queen it wouldn't make me the Queen of England, would it?" Rachel asked before continuing. "And what the hell about their FATHER's responibility? The two of us may need help at times while you're touring or in the studio, but while you guys are off, it shouldn't be necessary for us to utilize a nanny all the time."

"But..."

"No, you know something, right now, you've got three weeks where you aren't scheduled to do anything, I think it's time we gave Tami a REAL vacation - two weeks off - leaving the two of us to prove we can handle raising our family."

"We wouldn't make it, Rach," Jeff stated matter-of-factly.

"You know something, screw you, Timmons! We ARE giving Tam a 2-week vacation - and it's going to be JUST the two of us taking care of YOUR children. The other guys are NOT allowed to come help - your family isn't allowed to come help - it's going to be just YOU and ME. You are going to become capable of caring for your own children if it KILLS YOU!"

"But, Rae..."

"No buts, Jeffrey! You created them - you're going to take care of them! What would happen to us if, god forbid, you were to lose everything - and we needed to take 'normal' jobs instead of you being in the entertainment industry?"

"But, Rae, I have plans with the guys next week."

"Then you're going to have to change them, because I have work to do in the next two weeks - and I can't do it from here."

"But..."

"JEFFREY BRANDON TIMMONS! Do you NOT love your children? Is that why you insist on having a nanny be responsible for being their primary caregiver?"

"HELL NO! That isn't it - but I have plans."

"I told you - CHANGE YOUR PLANS! I have at least 3 hours of work a day I need to do down at your manager's office - and I can't reschedule that. So you have 3 hours - of alone time with all your children - the rest of the time - we will be caring for them together. You are GOING to learn what your children need/want so you CAN be left alone with them."

[Raevengeance]

When Tami returned from her day off, Rachel pulled her aside to discuss this sudden request for a vacation.

"Is there something wrong? Did I not do something?" Tami asked.

"Oh no, it's nothing wrong with either you or your job performance. It's a case of Jeff has some issues caring for his children if you or I aren't here with him. I want him to start taking more responsibility for the kids when he is home. So, would you be willing to take a two week vacation - with pay of course - for the next two weeks?"

"Well...I guess I could," Tami said reluctantly.

"Don't worry about your job - this is just to give Jeff a chance to better understand his children. Believe me, when he's back to working all the time, we'll definitely need your help. And if you need extra to be able to take this vacation, since it wasn't really planned, just let me know - and we'll give you a bonus."

"OK - and I guess I could use some time away. I love your kids, but sometimes it does get to be a little much."

"Tam, if you ever feel like it's too much - you tell us. We can figure out something - either hiring a second nanny to help or just trying to better schedule things so you get the help you need from Jeff and myself."

"I will - and thank you. I'm just going to go visit my sister who lives not too far from here - so I don't really need anything extra to help with expenses, but thank you for offering."

"Good. So you're vacation starts tomorrow morning, and Tam, don't let Jeff talk you into anything. He can handle it - he helped raise Jeff Junior and Alyssa when they were babies, but he seems to have forgotten how to do anything anymore."

"OK, but are you sure he won't fire me if I don't do what he asks?"

"Tam, I won't let him fire you. He needs to do this, just in case he ever ends up unable to afford to pay for a nanny to help with the care of his children."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 18 ~ The Test

"Rae, where's Tam?" Jeff asked as he and Rachel got ready for bed.

"Tam is on her way to visit her family, Jeff. Why?"

"Just wondering since she's usually back from her day off by now."

"Well, she was here, I just told her that we wanted her to take a two week vacation so both of us could act like we were a 'normal' family - one who couldn't afford 24-7 childcare."

"Oh..."

"Don't worry. She WILL be back."

"Rae, I don't think we can handle it," Jeff confessed.

"We will handle it, buster. And for the record, I CAN, HAVE, and DO take care of them alone at times. This is to ensure that their FATHER is capable of doing the same."

"But..."

"No buts, Jeffrey. And, before I forget - if the little ones need anything tonight - YOU are the one getting your [arse] outta bed to figure out what it is that they need."

"But...they're all going to need to be fed," Jeff argued.

"Jeff - they've all been sleeping through the night for a month. I wouldn't put all the responsibility on you if they still had late night feedings to be concerned about, although - you never did seem to help me with them when they were getting up in the middle of the night to be fed..."

"But...I couldn't breast feed them!" Jeff tried to explain.

"Nice effort to get out of the hole you've dug yourself, Timmons, but they weren't breastfed, other than a couple of days while we were still in Arizona."

"But..."

"They were bottle-fed formula - and this PROVES my point! You know absolutely NOTHING about OUR children," Rachel said, trying to control her temper as she heard a baby crying on the baby monitor. "Christian needs his daddy. Go see what you can figure out. If you're lost, bring him in here and I'll help you figure out what's wrong."

"But..."

"GO, JEFFREY!"

[Raevengeance]

Jeff crawled out of bed shaking his head, "Rae..."

"Jeff, listen to me - this is for your OWN GOOD! If you honestly can't figure out what Chris needs from one of us, bring him in here and I'll help you figure it out, but YOU are going to make the effort. Do you understand me?"

"Alright."

As Rachel continued laying in the bed, she listened to the baby monitor to make sure that Jeff didn't need her [arse]istance.

Heard on the baby monitor
"Hey little man, what do you need?" Jeff asked his young son as he leaned into the crib. "Hmmm...mommy said you wouldn't be hungry - and you don't have a dirty diaper. Did you lose your pacifier?" Jeff asked trying to locate it in the crib to see if that was what had caused his young son to start crying. "Here you go little one; was this what you were crying for, buddy?" Jeff asked as he helped his young son take the nipple in his mouth, instantly silencing the babe.
End of Jeff's Nursery trip

"OK, he's settled again," Jeff said, returning to the bedroom he shared with Rachel.

"Good - just remember you're still on duty with them though."

"Why just me?? I thought this was for both of us?"

"Because, Jeff - I've done my night duty - since they were born. You're making up for that - AND tonight is probably the only night I'm insisting that you handle any and all of their night-time wake-ups."

"Ok."

"Jeff - I have a question for you. When do you want me to go into the office to work this week?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean - would you rather have me here to help you put them down for their nap - or when they wake up from their nap? I'll be working 3 hours - so with travel time, I'll probably be gone for about 4 hours total - hopefully less if I miss rush hour. But when would you rather have my [arse]istance? Taking into account that they go down for their nap at about 9 and get up about 11; and then they have another nap around 2 until about 4."

"So, I'll have 2 hours while they're awake without you being here?"

"That is correct, Jeff."

"When did you want to go in?" Jeff asked.

"I'd prefer to go in early and get it taken care of, but I also don't want to leave you alone trying to handle part of the day that you aren't ready to take care of alone."

"Well - go ahead and go in early then. I'll find a way to manage taking care of all 5 kids."

"Jeff - if I'm gone in the morning, you're going to have to take your daughter to her preschool as well."

"What?"

"Which part of take your daughter to school did you not understand?"

"The part about me doing that while watching the kids," Jeff answered honestly.

"Why? I do it all the time on Wednesdays."

"You do?"

"Yes, you know thata is Tam's other day off during the week. Who did you think took care of taking her to school since you never bothered to even offer."

[Raevengeance]

"Oh..."

"Jeff, it'll be alright...but..."

"What is it, Rachel?"

"Jeff...maybe it would be easier for me to go into the office in the afternoon - and then pick Alyssa up on the way home."

"Yeah, it would be - what's the problem with that idea?"

"The little ones don't nap in the afternoon, and I was trying to get it so that they would be napping for at least part of the time that you were left alone with them."

"Rae, when would you rather go in to work?"

"I seem to work better in the morning, why?"

"Then go in the morning. I'll find a way to handle everything...you're right - you and Tami both deal with this on a regular basis, I should be able to handle it for a couple weeks."

"Jeff...if it's too stressful, let Aly stay home - just remember to call her school to tell them she won't be there."

"How about I just call my sister, and ask her to take Aly to school? I know Tina would be willing to do that for me - but I also know you wanted there to be no outside [arse]istance, so I'm asking if that's ok."

"OK - but just this first week. We'll figure something else out for next week...but Jeff,..."

"Yes, princess?" Jeff asked when Rae didn't finish the thought.

"Well - Alyssa gets out of school at 11:30, so if I pick her up - well...I probably won't be here when the little ones get up from their nap."

"Could you come home first? And we can ALL go pick Alyssa up from school - then go out for lunch?" Jeff suggested.

"Well...that may work...alright, we can try it - but Jeff, have the bottles ready for the little ones when I get home. We won't have much time here before we have to leave to pick up Aly."

"Yes, ma'am," Jeff replied before asking, "So, what time are you going to be leaving in the morning?"

"Well, if I want to be home by 10:45 - I'll have to be there about 7:30."

"Are the kids going to be up and fed by then?"

"Ummmm...honestly, probably not."

"So I'll have to feed all three of them by myself?" Jeff asked. "And make something for Alyssa and JJ?"

[Raevengeance]

"Well, yes, unless they suddenly become capable of feeding themselves."

"Rae - how can I do this?"

"You'll survive, Jeff. I'll make sure that the bottles are all ready, and it's room-temperature formula that we're using, so you don't have to worry about heating it at all. And JJ and Aly just need a bowl of cereal, so that shouldn't be too difficult."

"OK...I hope I can handle it."

"Jeff, you'll do fine - I promise," Rachel said as they both heard something through the baby monitor.

"Well, I'll be right back."

"Wait, Jeff."

"Why?"

"Listen carefully - she's 'talking' to herself - there isn't anything that she needs from us right now."

"Are you sure?"

"Don't doubt me, Timmons! Or you're gonna be left all alone with them."

"But..."

"LISTEN!" Rachel said as the 'noise' stopped as suddenly as it had started. "Jeff - pay attention. Screaming and crying mean we need to go check on the kids - cooing or other general sounds, don't require us go check on them right away."

"I'll try to remember that."

"Jeff, were you this terrible when Trish had Alyssa and JJ?"

"Well, with JJ, probably not - and I can't say much about how I was when Aly was born since I wasn't around much."

[Raevengeance]

"Yet you managed to be there for all of her 'firsts'," Rae reminded him.

"Yeah, I guess."

"Jeff - stop it! You did what you needed to do to provide for your family. Don't feel bad about how you were earning that money."

"But..."

"Jeff, Alyssa either already does - or will - understand that you were doing what you needed to do to take care of her. Stop beating yourself up because you weren't around all day, everyday. Or are you trying to say that you wish that 98 Degrees wasn't successful?"

"NO! No, I just wish I hadn't been forced to choose between the group and my family."

"Alyssa understands...and she knows you love her, daddy."

"Yeah, anyway - enough about the munchkins."

"Alright. Good night, Jeff."

"Rae, no - I wanted to talk about us - you and me."

"What about us?"

"Rae, the other night when I said I wanted to marry you, I was serious."

"OK - and you've never answered the questions I asked you about wedding plans."

"You plan the wedding - just tell me where I have to be and when, and I'll be there with bells on."

"No, Jeff. This is OUR wedding - I want your input too."

"But..."

"What, Jeffrey?"

"Well...don't you want to have the wedding you dreamed of having since you were a little girl?"

"I can have that, Jeff - but I want you to be part of the planning too. If we get married - it's OUR wedding and how WE choose to start OUR LIVES - TOGETHER!"

"But, Trish wouldn't even let our parents come with us to Vegas when we got married, even though I wanted them to be with us for our special day."

"JEFFREY BRANDON TIMMONS! I am NOT now - nor will I ever be - your FORMER wife! Don't you dare start comparing me to her!"

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 19

The next morning, Rachel quietly slipped from the bed, wondering what exactly was happening. After making sure she had bottles ready for the triplets set out on the counter, hoping to make Jeff's morning a little easier, she quietly left the house, hoping that she wouldn't wake anyone up making Jeff's day even longer than it was already going to be.

At about 6:30, Jeff woke up and wondered where Rachel had gone. As he went downstairs to see if that was where she was, he noticed that her car wasn't in the driveway. "Hmmmm...she must have left already," he said, continuing into the kitchen. "Awww...that was nice, all the bottles are ready and so are the bowls and cereal for JJ and 'lyssa," he said, also noticing that Rae had started a pot of coffee for him. "Wow, she really thought of everything to help me out this morning." Shortly after he finished his first cup of coffee, he heard one of the triplets start to fuss so he made his way to the nursery to begin his day re-learning to be a full-time father.

Upon reaching the nursery, Jeff wondered exactly how he would manage getting all 3 children up and fed at the same time. "What in the..." he thought, noticing that only one of the infants was awake. "Hey Des, should daddy change your diaper quick?" Jeff asked, noticing that Destiny was the only one of the infants awake. After changing her diaper which was wet, and seeing that neither Bryleigh or Christian were awake yet, he took Destiny to the kitchen and fed her the bottle Rae had fixed for the youngster. As he finished burping her, he again heard one of the babies starting to cry in the nursery, so quickly placing Destiny into the playpen that was set up in the family room right outside of the kitchen before heading back upstairs, and getting Christian up, changed, back downstairs, and fed as well as both JJ and Alyssa before needing to go take care of Bryleigh and making sure Alyssa was ready to go to school when her Aunt Tina came to pick her up.

"Hey, Jeff," Tina said, walking into the house. "How's it going?"

"I'm starting to get a little stressed, but overall - it hasn't been too bad this morning. Aly should be ready to head out with you. Thank you so much for doing this."

"Not a problem, big brother. Did you need me to pick her up after school too?"

"No, Rae and I are going to pick her up and take the kids out for lunch together."

"OK, but if the two of you change your mind, just give me a call. Speaking of Rae, where is she?"

"She had to run into the offices to get some work done today, so she left early this morning."

"She trusted you enough to leave you alone with her kids?"

"They are MY KIDS too, you know, Tina. And...well...she wanted me to make sure I could handle taking care of them by myself."

"I knew there was a reason for it. I guess that's why we didn't get a call for [arse]istance?"

"Exactly. I was told that - I could have no [arse]istance unless there was an extreme emergency. The exception is you taking Alyssa to school, Rae said that she would allow that when I mentioned it to her last night."

"I think I should make you do it yourself...but I won't - today at least. But Jeff, you need to be able to handle transporting all the kids too - not just taking care of them in the house."

"I know, but at least for a couple of days, until I get used to this morning thing, can you please help me out?"

"Fine - but I'm talking to Rae about this later tonight...to make sure it really IS alright with her."

[Raevengeance]

Rachel arrived at the office and wondered how Jeff was coping with the challenge of caring for his 5 small children. As she sat working, she lost track of time, and was amazed when her alarm went off signalling the end of her day. As she looked at the work she had accomplished, she was amazed because all the work she had planned on getting done during the entire week - had been completed in the one morning. Saying a quick goodbye to Michael, Rae hit the road to get home for the lunch 'date' she had planned with Jeff and the kids after picking up Alyssa.

"Hey Jeff, how did this morning go?" Rae asked as she walked in the house where Jeff was getting the last bottle ready and into the diaper bag for the little ones.

"Piece of cake."

"So, you think you can handle it again tomorrow?"

"Yep, no problem," Jeff answered confidently.

"What if I say that Tina can't drop Alyssa off at school tomorrow?"

"I still think I could manage."

"And if I told you that the grocery shopping needed to be done tomorrow morning?"

"That could wait until you got home."

"What if I said it couldn't?"

"Rae!"

"Jeff!"

"Don't do that to me."

"Do what?"

"Don't make me try to shop while I'm taking care of four kids."

"Who said you'd be taking four kids grocery shopping with you?"

"Well - if you're working, Tami's off, and I can't get anyone else to help with caring for the kids, what else would I be doing with them?"

"Leaving them with me. I got enough work done today that I won't have to go in tomorrow."

"Really?? That's great!"

"So, you get carpool and grocery duty - I'll watch the rest of the kids."

"You trust me to go grocery shopping?"

"Yes, because I have already written out the grocery list."

"You're no fun," Jeff said pouting.

"Not my fault that we can't get our wedding planned so we can have fun again."

"Rae - I told you - plan it and let me know the details. I'll be there whenever and where ever you say."

"And I told you - I want YOUR input! Now grab the diaper bag and I'll get the kids."

[Raevengeance]

~ Chapter 20 ~

After a full afternoon of 'quality family time', Jeff looked beat. "So, what are you doing tomorrow, Jeff?"

"First, help get all the kids fed and dressed, then take Alyssa to school before going grocery shopping - with your list. Then I'll be coming home to drop off the groceries. That's all I know so far."

"What about your daughter?"

"What? I said I was dropping her off at school."

"And she's not coming home?"

"Oh, well...that comes after I drop the groceries off here."

"Hopefully you're a quick shopper."

"What's that mean?"

"I just hope you'll get done with the shopping - and unloading before your daughter is done with school."

"What? Why are you worried about it?"

"Nevermind - I'm sure you'll do just fine."

"Rae, let's talk about the wedding."

"What wedding?"

"Our wedding."

"Interesting concept - I didn't realize we were planning one - or were even engaged, since you never actually ASKED ME."

"Rae, I love you - and I want to let the world know just how much. Will you do me the extreme honor of becoming my wife?" Jeff asked, pulling the engagement ring he had purchased for her in January from his pocket.

"Are you absolutely positive you aren't asking me just because of the kids?"

"Rae, I admit - I made the mistake of getting married because of Alyssa and the fact that Trish was pregnant with JJ, but I won't make that mistake again. I am only marrying for love - and that's why I want you to agree to marry me."

"Alright, I think I can accept, as long as it wasn't just because of Des, Chris,and Bryleigh."

"Rae, I bought the ring - before they were even on the way into our lives. I just never got to ask you before you left town after we made love that night."

"Wow...Jeff - I'm not planning this wedding by myself. I want your input on it too...and if you don't give it to me, I'll change the answer."

[Raevengeance]

"I promise, I'll do my best to give you input when asked for it," Jeff said, not wanting to disappoint the woman he loved.

"I guess that I can accept that - but if I hear you say anything along the lines of 'I don't care - the choice is yours', I will call this wedding off quicker than you can blink your eyes."

"I understand," Jeff said, hoping his wedding suggestions wouldn't keep Rae from having the wedding that she had always dreamed of having.

"Good - now first on the planning agenda, what kind of wedding did you want to have?"

"Well, the size of the wedding doesn't matter to me too much - I just want the service performed by a priest - and our parents to be there with us."

"So you wouldn't be disappointed if I said I wanted to have a small ceremony with only our immediate families - and a few of our closest friends with us when we get married?"

"If that's what you want, it's fine with me. Like I said, I just want to make sure that our parents are part of the day with us."

"OK - where are we going to get married, Jeff?"

"Princess, we can get married anywhere you want. If you want us to go to Wisconsin, we can get married there - or we can get married here."

"Well, here is a better choice, so we don't have to travel with five little kids. We'd drive the whole plane insane if we were to take them to Wisconsin."

"Rae..."

"What? It's true - but let's plan for the wedding to be out here...it would honestly be easier than trying to pack up the kids."

"Alright - a California wedding, now did you have a preference for a wedding date?"

"Well...how about April? I know it's not a lot of time, but since it's just a small wedding, it should be workable."

"It sounds fine to me - any particular date in April?"

"Well, your birthday would work - and it would help ensure that you remember our anniversary," Rae joked.

"Funny girl, I won't need help remembering the best day of my life, however if you want to give me the best birthday present I could ever hope to get by becoming my bride on my birthday, I definitely won't object."

"OK - let's do it then...and Jeff, would you mind if we just got married in our backyard?"

"Are you sure that's where you want us to have the wedding?"

"Yeah - and if it's raining, we can just move the ceremony into our living room."

"Alright, it's fine by me if you're sure that's what YOU want."

"Jeff..."

"What? I'm just saying I have no preference for a wedding location."

"That better be why you said that."

"It is; I swear."

"OK. Jeff - now that we're getting married, what are we going to do with my house next door?"

[Raevengeance]

"Well, we could merge our two properties, and then do a remodel of the homes so we have exactly what we want in a house," Jeff suggested.

"Maybe, or we could sell it."

"Rae, what do you really want - as far as the home we share for the rest of our lives?"

"Jeff, this place is fine..."

"Rachel, talk to me. I want you to have your dream home."

"Jeff, as long as our family is together, it wouldn't matter where we lived."

"Rae, would you rather we buy a new house - or remodel the ones we have? We could always convert both our lots into one large lot and end up with a larger home than what we have right now."

"Jeff - that doesn't matter to me."

"And wedding plans don't really matter to me - as long as the two of us are getting married, that's all that's important. Now - which would you prefer?"

"Well, just thinking about when you go to the studio to record with the guys, it might be easier if we lived a little closer to them...and had a building that you and the guys could use as a recording studio, so you wouldn't all have to pay for studio time at any of the big studios around the country."

"You're right...I'm sure we can find something that would work for that purpose. We can start the house-hunting tomorrow afternoon, after we pick Alyssa up from school."

"Jeff, about tomorrow."

"Yes?"

"You stay home - I'll take Alyssa to school and do the grocery shopping, as well-meaning as you are, and I know you'd do your best, I just don't think you could get it all done in the time you'd have to do it. I'm used to doing this every week."

"If that's what you want, that's fine. Rae, can I see if Tina or my mom can watch the kids while we go looking for a house?"

"Yes, you can - it would be a lot easier than if we tried taking all of them with us."

"Thanks. When are we going to tell our families?"

"Well, we probably should call and let them know right away."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 21 ~ Wedding Plans ~ </span>

Before they knew it, April arrived and with it an increase in the intensity of the wedding planning. Airline tickets had been purchased for those flying to California for the wedding - and hotel reservations as well. Currently the only disagreement was deciding where (or IF) the newlyweds would be going for their honeymoon.

"Rae! We need to take a honeymoon!"

"Why?"

"Because - we just got married! Well, we will have when we take the trip," Jeff argued.

"And just where do you plan on taking our children for our honeymoon?"

"Our kids are staying home - with Tam, while you and I enjoy Hawaii."

"Interesting thought - but I don't think it's gonna go that way."

"And why not? We CAN take a vacation without the kids occ[arse]ionaly you know."

"I do realize that, Jeffrey, however - right after our wedding is NOT going to be one of those vacations for two."

"And what is that supposed to mean?"

"What did it sound like it meant?"

"It sounded like you didn't want to be alone with me," Jeff answered truthfully, hoping that wasn't the case.

"That isn't what I meant. I just don't think it's a good idea to leave them home alone right now - and besides that, Tam was going to take a two-week vacation then so we wouldn't have their nanny to watch them."

"But..."

"No, Jeff. We can take a weekend away as our honeymoon right then, because Jenn and Les have offered to watch them for a couple of days, but we need to get back so that they can get back to their own lives."

"This isn't fair!"

"What?! The fact that you have FIVE children to worry about BEFORE the wedding - or the fact that you aren't being allowed to act like a sex-crazed teenager?"

"Everything! We should have time alone after our wedding, even though we have kids!"

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 22

The wedding ultimately went off without a hitch...the only disappointment involved in the day was that none of Rachel's family was able to make it to California for the ceremony, even though they all supported her and Jeff in their decision to get married. Alyssa was excited to be part of the ceremony - acting as a Junior Bride's Maid, while Rae's friends Jenn and Leslie were co-Maids of Honor since Rachel couldn't choose between the two friends who had been there for her through so much of the turmoil in the past couple years of her life. Following an elegant dinner with Jeff's family, Jeff took Rachel to the airport for the flight to their honeymoon destination of Hawaii, leaving the children with his parents and sister.

"So, how does it feel?"

"Huh?"

"How is married life treating you, Mrs. Timmons?"

"As well as I expected," Rachel answered absent-mindedly.

"Rae - what's wrong?"

"I...I just feel guilty leaving the kids with your family."

"Baby, they offered to watch them while we were gone - and as we get everything moved into our new home."

"But...we will get to see them when we get home, right?"

"Of course, but moving is stressful enough. My family knows that - which is why they're keeping them for the extra week."

"Alright," Rae answered with a sigh.

"Baby, what else is bothering you?"

"Nothing."

"Bull[crap]! Talk to me - I can't fix it for you if you don't talk to me about it."

"I...I just wish some of my family had been able to make it to the wedding."

"Rachel, we both know why they didn't make it...at least we have their approval."

"I know - believe me, I know - but still..."

"So, let's get your mind on something else," Jeff suggested, not wanting his new bride to be so sad and depressed during their entire vacation. "Where's my present?"

"Your present?"

"Yes, it is my birthday today...so what do I get from my new bride?"

"You know as well as I do that we agreed no presents - the new house is our present to eachother."

"Come on - you won't give me something special while we're flying to Hawaii?" Jeff asked, wondering if he could convince his timid bride to join the Mile High Club with him...knowing it was a good thing that he had purchased all of the first cl[arse] seats - to give the pair more privacy on the flight.

[Raevengeance]

"JEFF!"

"What? We have First Cl[arse] to ourselves."

"Jeff - I...I really am not in the mood for any airplane sex, I'm sorry."

"I understand...do you think it's a possibility for the flight home - if I have all of the first cl[arse] section booked - so it's only the two of us?" Jeff asked.

"I'm not sure. I..."

"It's ok...I do understand. If you decide you want to, just let me know, ok?"

"Thank you, Jeff. With one exception, you've always been so patient with me."

"Hey, I love you - and I'll always be there for you - no matter what - and everything we do has to be in the best interests of our ENTIRE family - you, me, and all of our children."


Eventually, the pair landed in Hawaii - and they were immediately whisked away to their private island hideaway where they spent the first week getting to know one another - INTIMATELY, before spending the second week doing the typical tourist-thing - seeing all the major attractions on each of the islands.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 23 ~

When the pair returned home from their honeymoon, Rachel was expecting a major task in packing all the possessions in both homes and hauling them to their new home. When Jeff missed the turn into their gated community, she became curious and asked, "Why aren't we going home to pack for our move?"

"You'll find out, just relax."

"Jeffrey!"

"RACHEL TIMMONS!"

"You brat. Tell me where we're heading."

"We're going home."

"To the new house?" Rachel asked confused.

"Yes, to our new home."

"Why are we going to an empty house?"

"Rae, please, just relax, alright?"

"Fine, whatever," Rae answered, settling back against the door of the car.

When the pair finally arrived at their new home, Jeff insisted on carrying Rachel over the threshold as custom dictated, and as Rachel saw the interior of the home, she was glad that Jeff was holding her - because all their belongings were already IN the new house. "Now do you see why I brought you here?" Jeff asked, as he set her on her feet.

"Uh huh - but who..."

"The guys, Jenn, Leslie, and my sister did this as a present for us. I labelled everything in the other houses with where it belonged in this house - and they moved and arranged everything," Jeff answered before adding, "But if you want anything changed, let me know and we'll take care of it. That's why we have one more week without the kids."

"Jeff - thank you. I was dreading moving all our 'junk'."

"You're welcome...and now comes the fun part for us," Jeff replied leaning down to kiss his new bride.

"Fun part?" Rae questioned as Jeff pulled back from the kiss.

"Yep, we need to christen every room in the house."

"Not the..."

"Yes, even our kids' rooms. And before you protest, it doesn't need to be 'full-blown sex' either - oral sex counts too - as long as at least one of us hits the big O it counts as christening the room."

"Jeff - since the studio is in the house..."

"Yes - the studio too, and that will be extra fun, because I'll be able to record it so I can take it with me when I have to go on the road without you, so I won't have to get myself off to just your picture, I'll get off to us getting off."

"My picture??" Rachel questioned, trying to ignore the fact that her husband wanted to have a sex tape made.

"Yes, your picture," Jeff said, smiling.

"I don't know about this..."

"Come on, you know you want me - and that I want you."

"But..."

"Rae, we have a full week alone here - I'm not saying we are gonna be having sex in front of the kids, just in their rooms."

"I'm sorry, but it just...feels wrong to me, Jeff."

"So we won't have this house fully christened until we're too old to enjoy the christening?"

"I guess you could say that - because the kids will have to be moved out - for good - first."

"For good? You mean moving out for college isn't even enough?"

"No, horndog, it isn't."

"At least I can admit my sexual desires," Jeff fumed, wondering why his new bride was denying what she wanted - he could see in her eyes she wanted to get the house christened.

"All you want is sex. Haven't you outgrown that phase of your life yet?"

"What phase would that be?"

"The 'teen - gotta get laid twenty-four-seven' phase."

"Nope, because, my dear princess, you keep me up to the task twenty-four-seven."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"That means that ANYTIME I think of you - I want to be showing you just how much I love you."

"You probably should have married someone who isn't such a prude."

"Why? I only have eyes for you."

"Why are you so full of it?"

"The only thing I'm 'full of' is desire to show the woman I love just how much I love her."

"And you think telling her she needs to have sex in her children's bedrooms is the way to accomplish that?"

"I'm just telling you how I feel."

"I KNOW that. I'm saying there are better ways to do it."

"Come on then - I'll just SHOW you."

"Jeffrey Brandon!" Stop this! We can't get too carried away - what if someone stops by?"

"Why does it seem like you have absolutely no interest in making love to me?"

"Because - you...I...it's the middle of the morning!" Rachel tried explaining.

"You weren't complaining about morning sex when we were in Hawaii," Jeff countered.

"There was no chance of company showing up there."

[StargateGirl]

What is wrong with her? Why in the world is she denying sex with him? lol

[Raevengeance]

"And there won't here either, baby," Jeff tried explaining.

"How do you know that?"

"Because, all friends and family were told today was a day to stay away so that we could catch up on our sleep - and help shake the jet lag we'd be experiencing."

"And you want us to hump like there's no tomorrow instead of sleeping?"

"Hey, we'll get some naptime in - but we'll be working to tire ourselves out as well. Besides there's no time like the present to work on starting our family."

"We already HAVE a family - or are you forgetting Alyssa, Bryleigh, Christian, Destiny, and Junior?"

"I meant our 'post wedding' family."

"Jeff - we really need to discuss that. I mean, why is it important to you that we have more biological children? You already have five, three of whom are mine as well. Couldn't we just adopt if we want to have more kids?"

"We could, but..."

"But what?"

"I...man, this is going to sound stupid...but I want to be there with you from conception through delivery - NOT conception, miss the next nine months, and then be there for the delivery."

"Ahhhhh...I guess I understand, Jeff, but - you have a tour with the guys coming up - and it would pull you away at some point during the pregnancy if it happened now."

"So?"

"So, dork, that means you wouldn't be here for EVERYTHING - which you just said you wanted to be part of."

"Oh..."

"Listen, I will make a deal with you, ok?"

"What's the deal?"

"I will consider another planned pregnancy - but until then we continue the use of birth control. I will stop my Depo shots when you leave for the tour - and if I decide to go ahead with the pregnancy, we will start TRYING to get pregnant when you get home, ok?"

"Sounds fair, I guess - but what if you decide no to another pregnancy?"

"Then - we can discuss it more when you get home from the tour. If you agree at least I won't be pregnant alone - and raising five children solo at the same time - you'd be here to help me out."

"Alright - it does make more sense."

"Yes, it does, now where are we going to start the christening?"

"Let's start in the kids' rooms - because I'll agree to making out - or me feeling you up will count as having 'christened' the room - if you'll agree to that."

"Fine - but definitely no full-on sex in our children's rooms!"

[Raevengeance]

Chatper 24 ~

Time moved quickly - and it was soon time for Jeff and the other 3 bums from Ohio to return to the road, touring to promote their latest cd. "Wish you were coming with me," Jeff said as the pair spent a few minutes alone before he had to board the tour bus to start the journey.

"In a way, I wish I was too, but we both agreed when we got involved - the kids need stability in their lives - and that means one of us staying here with them...and I know the fans would be disappointed if you and I switched places."

"I know, sometimes..."

"Sometimes you wish we didn't have the responsibility of five kids?" Rachel asked when he didn't finish the sentence.

"Yeah - but I also don't regret having those kids either. They are the light of my life - along with you."

"Quit being a sap - I know you wouldn't change having them - but I also know that you would like us to have some time alone together...I feel the same way sometimes."

"Any idea if I'm going to become a father again?" Jeff asked, hoping for the answer that he would get that chance - when he returned from this tour.

"I haven't decided for sure, Jeff...but you gave several good reasons for wanting it - so you may get your wish."

"At least you aren't saying no right away," Jeff said smiling.

"No, I'm not. Now - you better go say goodbye to the kids before the guys steal you from us for the next few months."

"I'm going. Any chance you'll come visit while I'm on the road?" Jeff asked hopefully.

"We'll see. I had your manager book enough rooms for me and the kids when you guys are in Vegas - so we'll try to make it there - other than that - I'm not really sure."

"At least that's something - and we're booked in Vegas for 2 shows - and we have the day before and after the shows off - so we can get some time together," Jeff said, glad to know he'd see his new bride and his kids during the next few months.

[Forever_Lost]

Aww... he's leaving.. :(

[Baby_Girl89]

i'm all caught up now, and it's my turn to ask for more :P.

and i can't believe you've got me stuffing envelopes for these dorks. i better be getting paid mucho buckos for that :P.

i also think you need to work in some sort of nick suffering, since jeffers has had plenty. you need to lay off of him a little poor guy lol.

add soon :D

[Raevengeance]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Enchantress84 @ 12/22/05, 01:29am) 33114</div>
i'm all caught up now, and it's my turn to ask for more :P.

and i can't believe you've got me stuffing envelopes for these dorks. i better be getting paid mucho buckos for that :P.

i also think you need to work in some sort of nick suffering, since jeffers has had plenty. you need to lay off of him a little poor guy lol.

add soon :D
[/b]

Nick suffering?? He's married to a moron - isn't that enough suffering for him? :P

[Baby_Girl89]

well i thought for sure you'd add this recent divorce in there and then what? 'cause i mean there's no way jess and her dad are going to wiggle their way out of giving what nick is owed so he'll at least be compensated for that suffering lol.

[Raevengeance]

About two weeks after Jeff left on tour, Rachel was surprised to see her in-laws coming up the driveway towards the house. "Hey, how are you doing?" she asked greeting them at the front door and noticing the suitcases they were carrying.

"We're doing alright. Now you need to go pack your bags."

"What?"

"You are going to go spend time with your husband. You two haven't been married that long - and you shouldn't be spending three months away from him so soon after the wedding."

"But the kids..."

"That is why we're here. The kids will be fine with us, you know that."

"Of course, but...no one is expecting me to join them until they hit Vegas next month."

"So call Tommy or Andre and tell them you're going to be flying out for a few days with Jeff. They'll make sure you're hooked up with his hotel info and stuff."

"I just don't want to end up in the way..." Rachel protested.

"Do you honestly think Jeff would consider you in the way?" Pat asked.

"Him - no; but everyone else probably would."

"Rachel, our son loves you - and everyone who matters on that tour realizes that - and would never feel like you were in the way."

"I guess - I just don't like feeling like I'm getting in the way - even if people don't tell me I am in the way. Just another of my quirks."

"Well - you get upstairs and get packed. It'll be good for you and Jeff to have some time together - and for you to experience life on the road with Jeff."

"You're right. How long am I going to be gone?"

"Two weeks."

"Wow - I figured it would be a week maybe - but two full weeks??"

"Yep. We know you need time to do some behind the scenes stuff on the tour for the fan club - so this should give you the time."

"Thank you," Rachel said, heading towards her bedroom to get a bag packed for two weeks on the road. As she finished packing, her cell phone rang and she answered it after quickly checking the caller id. "Hey, Jeffie."

"Baby, I'm missing you."

"I'm missing you too, but - your parents are here."

"My parents are there? Guess that means no phone sex for us now since you need to entertain them?"

"You won't exactly need the phone sex for the next two weeks."

"I won't?"

"No, your parents are sending me out to join you on tour - unless you don't want me to come see you."

"Oh no - I'm glad they're sending you. I was hoping I'd find a way to get you to join me - other than the couple days in Vegas."

"Well you have me. I think I'm just going to fly into your next destination - and I'll be there when you get there tomorrow, alright?"

"Sounds like a plan. I'll have Rich call ahead so you can get into my room when you get there."

"Thanks, Jeffie - and baby, I miss you so much."

"I miss you too. Tonight is going to go so slowly now, knowing that you're going to be there waiting for me tomorrow morning."

"Well - have a great show tonight - and I'll see you tomorrow morning. Love you, Jeffers."

"Love you too, princess. Give my love to the kiddies before you leave - and tell my parents I said thanks for sending you out to see me."

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 25 ~ The Return Home

April - as 98° returns from the tour

"Baby, I'm home!" Jeff called as he entered an eerily quiet home. "Alyssa! JJ! Chris! Bryleigh! Destiny!" Jeff called continuing to not get any response. "Where the hell is everyone? First, I need to catch a ride home with Drew and Lea - and now no one is home to meet me either?" he muttered to himself as he went to take his luggage upstairs to unpack. "Rachel! Are you here?!" he called wondering why his family wasn't there to greet him, before finally finding a note in the middle of the bed.
Hey Sexy Daddy.
I know you're wondering why you're home alone when you are just returning from your 3-month long tour. Well, it's a surprise for you. Time for us to celebrate your birthday and our anniversary - hope you didn't forget those two special days. Anyway, put on the outfit that's hanging behind the door of your walk-in closet - and be ready to be picked up at 3:00. And YES, take a shower first.
Sorry I'm not home to help you, but you'll understand when you get here. And before you start worrying about our rugrats, they're all spending time with Uncle Mike and Aunt Jolene.
Love you, Jeffie. Can't wait to see you - the time we had together while you were on the road, was just not enough.
See you soon.

Rae[/b]

"Wow - she has something planned? Damn glad my surprise for her is set up for next weekend instead of this weekend," Jeff thought to himself as he decided that unpacking could wait - he needed to get ready. After a quick shower, he hurriedly dressed before grabbing a package from his luggage. "She thought I'd forget the most important date of my life - HA! I can't forget the moment my life became complete."


Rachel nervously paced in the hotel room she had secured for their use over the weekend. "What am I getting myself into? We already have five kids! Why do we need more? Yes - we have all this love, but it could be shared with 'unadoptable' children instead," she mumbled to herself as the phone rang, signalling the fact that Jeff was on his way up to the suite. "Damn, Damn, Damn! I'm not ready for him yet."

"Rae?" Jeff called as he opened the door.

"Hi, sweetheart. Happy birthday."

"And happy anniversary to the most beautiful woman in the world. I missed you at the airport and the house."

"Yeah, well..."

"It's ok - so was there a special reason for this get away?" Jeff asked hopefully.

"Well - remember what we talked about - when we were talking about our family?"

"You made a decision?" Jeff asked hopefully. "If you say no to having more kids, I do understand."

"Actually - with several conditions in place, I will agree to ONE MORE pregnancy - so that you can be there from conception through adulthood - but after I get pregnant, YOU are having a vasectomy."

"But..."

"Jeff - it's the easier sterilization method - and if we have decided that this is the last pregnancy we are going to attempt, and you don't plan on dumping me for some young Hollywood fame-***** - what difference does it make?"

"It's just..."

"What? You are afraid your manliness will be decreased by having a couple snips done?"

"What...what if...it makes me lose my sex drive?"

"Jeffrey Brandon Timmons! It isn't doing anything to your hormones! It's just putting a break in the tubes that carry the..."

"But..."

"You are SUCH a baby! Make your decision either you agree to my terms or there will be NO MORE little Timmons children running around our house."

"Uhh...alright."

"Way to sound enthused about the fact I've said you'll have one more biological child. But Jeff - I'm putting some time constraints on this."

"What's that time limit?"

[Forever_Lost]

I wanted to know what they did on tour...lol. Yay... she agreed to one more kid. :D ...that's a lot of little kiddies.

[Raevengeance]

what WHO did on tour?? :P

and Yes - it's a LOT of kiddies

[Forever_Lost]

Rae and Jeff...lol. :P

[Raevengeance]

Jeff sang and TRIED to dance - Rae sat around drooling - silly :P

[Forever_Lost]

dork... I meant in more detail. :P

[Raevengeance]

use your own imagination, silly :P

[Forever_Lost]

grr... I've never said that to you. :P I guess I can deal with what you wrote. :P

[Raevengeance]

maybe - just maybe - I'll try to write a little 'addendum' to that - just for you and Jenners (since I'm sure she'd want it too)

[Baby_Girl89]

imagination shmagination :P

MORE!!!!!!

[Raevengeance]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Enchantress84 @ 12/30/05, 10:12pm) 33487</div>
imagination shmagination :P
[/b]

What does that mean?


And you'll get more when I'm good and ready to give ya more :P

[Baby_Girl89]

it means who needs imagination, you could've added detail :P

[Raevengeance]

"The limit is 6 months time. If, in the next 6 months, I am not yet pregnant - we can try TWO attempts at In Vitro."

"So..."

"What I'm saying, is that basically, if I'm not pregnant again within the next year - you're done fathering children. And Jeff, I'm not asking you to have the vasectomy until I'm close to term in the pregnancy at least, so we can possibly reattempt if something were to happen even after I found out that we were going to have another child."

"Wow...I can't believe it..."

"Why not?"

"I honestly expected you to be telling me that we weren't going to attempt having more children together."

"Well, I proved you wrong, didn't I?" Rae asked smiling.

"Yes, that you did. So, let's get started on trying to make that baby."

"Hold on, Timmons. Before anything else happens - we are going to go out and have dinner...and you are going to romance me."

"I'll show you romance, sexy - in the bedroom."

"Jeffrey! I'm not some two-bit *****. I want to TALK to you. YES, we will get to the sex tonight, I'm sure - and we have all weekend to ourselves so it's not like we only have one night to screw like teenagers before retaking responsibility for the kids we already do have."

"I...I know - I'm sorry."

"You better be. Now, help me pick from these two dresses so we can get to the restaurant for our reservations," she answered, holding up two dresses - both semi-formal, one royal blue - the other hunter green.

"Hmmm...I think the blue - it shows off your eyes better."

"Alright, I'll be back in a few minutes - then you need to help with the zipper."

"Wow - you're looking sexy," Jeff said as she emerged from the bedroom. "Are you sure I can't help you take this OFF instead of zipping you into it?"

"I'm positive! Now, let's go - and fill me in on everything that happened when I wasn't with you."

"Not much to tell...I was a grouch - to the guys at least...I was able to put on a happy face for our fans, but I think some of them saw through that anyway."

"Come on - no funny stories about the other guys - no one fell on stage - or ripped their clothes?"

"Hmmmm...let's see - I'm the clutz - and if anyone is gonna end up ripping out their stage costumes, it's me too."

"You're no fun."

"Oh, but I am fun - but my fun-ness has been reserved for our bedroom, dear wife."

"You suck."

"Only you, princess...only you."

"Stop making me blush!"

"Please, my dear. After the things you did to me when you WERE on the road with me - you want me to believe that you are capable of being embar[arse]ed?"

"Stop it!"

"What? What happened to the girl who insisted on us getting to the venue early - so we could enjoy ourselves in the dressing room - and the quck change area - and on the stage once I managed to get all the roadies out of the area?"

"She's home - and has responsibility for 5 children."

"Baby..."

"Don't baby me...I want us to have some publicly appropriate fun - before we go settle into the privacy of the suite."

[Forever_Lost]

lol... we have a little freak on our hands. hehe :P just kidding.

[Raevengeance]

LOL

You're the one who wanted to know what happened on the tour :P

[Baby_Girl89]

so two-faced :P.

now i want MORE! see how you like responding to demands :P

[Raevengeance]

:P

Act like that and I WON'T type anymore for you :P

[Raevengeance]

After dinner at the hotel's restaurant, the pair returned to the suite which was now romantically decorated with candles and several dozen roses. "What?? Jeff???"

"When I went to the bathroom at supper, I arranged this. I hope you don't mind."

"No...I don't mind, it just surprised me is all."

"Well, I had thought about what you said, so I decided to do this for you."

"You keep making me love you more. So - what to do now?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, do we just want to catch up on what's happened with each other since we last saw each other - or do we go get the kids?"

"We have quality adult time. We won't get much after we get home," Jeff said reaching for the zipper on Rachel's dress.

"Stop it, Jeff. We have all week."

"What?"

"Your brother and sister are taking care of all five kids all week, so we can TRULY celebrate our first anniversary AND your birthday."

"Wow - and actually, my parents are taking Bryleigh, Destiny, and Chris while Trisha's family are taking little J and Alyssa starting next week."

"What?"

"It's part of my anniversary surprise for you. We're going on a little vacation/second honeymoon."

"JEFF?!?!?"

"What?"

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because I wanted to surprise you. I can tell from your reaction that my plan worked. So..."

"Yes?"

"What did you have planned for tonight?"

"Well....I was thinking...maybe we could....explore my wacky and stupid fantasies some more...."

"And which sexual fantasy did you want to explore tonight?" Jeff asked, knowing what she was getting at - but wanting her to say it - and hoping that she wanted to explore the favorite fantasy that he knew about.

"Well...ummm..."

"Come on, baby. You can tell me what fantasy you want explored," Jeff said wishing she wasn't so embarr[arse]ed about being a sexual person.

"I...Jeff..."

"Rae, sweetheart, do you want us to do some more exploring of the fantasy I discovered the first time you came out on the road with us?"

"Uh huh," Rae answered softly, upset that she was still embarr[arse]ed about wanting to have sex with her husband.

"Tell me....come on, you can tell me about it."

"I...I want...I want popstar Jeff to...to..."

"To what? You want me to serenade you?"

"No...I want you to make ALL my groupie fantasies about you to come true."

"And what would your husband say about that?" Jeff asked, knowing that Rae sometimes seperated his popstar identity from his everyday identity.

"Does it matter?" Rachel answered. "You know I belong 100 percent to my popstar."

"Will you....Rae," Jeff said, sensing she was detaching herself from the 'role' she was playing. "Rae - will you - my wife, not the girl living out her groupie fantasy - get a tatoo for me?"

"What?"

"Before we do this, I wanted to ask you - if popstar Jeff told his groupie-slave to get a tat, I know she would - but I want to make sure that if that happens, you won't be upset about ending up with one. I know you've said that they aren't for you - even though you LOVE the ones I have..."

"I...what kind of design - and where?" Rachel asked.

[Forever_Lost]

Ooohhh.... hehe.

[Raevengeance]

what's with the "oooh"?

[Forever_Lost]

What I can't 'Ooohh'? hehe Fantasies being played out... hm... that reminds me...

[Raevengeance]

Gonna get me some more fantasies to enjoy ;)


Any clue where some of this idea came from, Lessers? ;)

[Forever_Lost]

I owe you big time. lol... I'm off tomorrow I'll see what I can come up with. :D

[Raevengeance]

"Ummm...Jeff..."

"What baby?"

"As long as it's something small - and you're with me - I'll get one."

"You will? Wow - I can't believe you actually said yes," Jeff said, excitedly.

"Well, I can change my mind," Rachel replied, "but Jeff - that needs to wait."

"Wait? Why?"

"Come with me," she answered pulling him towards the bathroom.

"We are SOOOO using the hot tub together," Jeff said, "but can't we get messy first?"

"Jeff - get your mind off of sex for one minute, will you?"

"What are you taking me into the bathroom for if it isn't shower or hot tub sex?"

"Before...before I get a tattoo for you - I want to know..."

"Know what?"

"Know that I'm not already pregnant with your last child."

"What?!? But how?"

"Jeff - I stopped my birth control back in December when I was due for another shot of Depo. Since then, I've been very irregular in my cycles, but...well - it's been longer than usual since I last needed to worry about good old Aunt Flo. So, since you're home now - I want us to find out if - somehow during one of my visits to your tour bus - we began the process of expanding our family. If I am pregnant, I'll check with my doctor - and if she says it's safe - I'll get a henna tattoo for now - and have it made permenant after the baby is born."

"You would honestly do that - for me??"

"Yes - if you asked - and it wouldn't even need to be an 'order' from 'Rockstar Jeff' to his obedient groupie."

"Really?"

"Really - although, I do think I'd still like to play it out that way."

"Great - WOW! You would honestly let me put my mark on you FOREVER - I'm amazed."

"Jeff - I love you - and I know you love me - and that you would never ask me to get something put on my body that I wouldn't feel comfortable with doing. I do ask that we make this something rather small - that only you and I will know about...but it can't be put anywhere that I'll feel uncomfortable having a tattoo artist working either."

"I promise - it'll be very tasteful - and in a private, yet non-intimate location."

"Thank you."

[Forever_Lost]

Yay... they might have another little one. :D I can't believe she's giving in to the tat idea.

[Raevengeance]

"I have an idea of what I want it to be - so I'll talk to my favorite artist - and have him work on the drawing for it - so you can see it before it actually happens. And he does work with Henna - so he could even do the initial tat for you - and then do the full-fledged one when you're ready for that."

"I do get a right to veto any design though. But - shall we find out if my intuition is right?"

"YES! But - do you think you're really almost 3 months along?"

"Three?? No - I think it happened while we were in Vegas, but I haven't gotten any confirmation about it yet - because I wanted you to be with me when I had the test done."

"WOW! So why the long-winded 'yes' answer to another pregnancy earlier?"

"I just wanted you to know my ground rules - in case I'm not yet pregnant. So are we ready to find out for sure?"

"I am - hurry up and do this," Jeff said, turning to leave the bathroom.

"Hold it - don't go too far - wait outside the door."

"That is all the further I planned on going."

"Alright," Rachel said smiling as he shut the door. After being left alone, Rachel read the directions on the box - and did what was necessary before going - test stick in hand out by Jeff. "So, tell me what that says in two-minutes."

"Alright," Jeff said, pulling Rachel into his arms. "I can't believe it - I always found out Trisha was pregnant while I was on the road. This is going to be exciting - being able to experience the whole thing."

"I'm glad you're excited, baby."

"It's blue - does that mean a boy?"

"NO - Dork! That just means that - according to that test - We're Pregnant! Tomorrow morning - on the way home, I want to stop by my doctor's office - and have them confirm it - with a blood test though, ok?"

"OK - so does this mean we aren't going to be the Rockstar and his groupie?"

"No - if you want us to go with that fantasy tonight we can - but - just don't demand that I get a tat tonight, ok?"

"OK - are we going to head down to the club downstairs to star this out?"

"Actually - how about we go with me being a groupie brought up by security for your sexual pleasure?"

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Just wanted to make sure we did this in a way you wanted it played out," Jeff answered.

[Forever_Lost]

"It's blue - does that mean a boy?"

LOL!!!!

[Raevengeance]

I can't help it - my jeffie is a dork ;)

[Baby_Girl89]

lmao

MORE!

and man i must have missed something between you and lesers sissa about that whole fantasy thing. :P

[Raevengeance]

I'll let ya in on the secret when I get home from work, Sisser ;)

and - I'm working on more - but it may be slow going for the time being - cuz unlike some people I don't have the story written 'ahead' - I have posted what i've written :P

[Baby_Girl89]

you better not be referring to me :P. 'cause two hearts was the only one i had done for that to apply and i no longer have things to add, at least right at hand :P.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 26

The following morning, Jeff woke up first. Wanting to let Rae sleep in, he quietly crawled from the bed and began straightening things up a little bit, knowing that she wouldn't want to leave the room quite as messy as it had become during their explorations together. After getting everything in order, he made a quick call to roomservice to have their breakfast sent up so she could have breakfast in bed. Hanging up the phone, he turned and found her watching him. "Did you enjoy yourself, baby?" he asked, coming over to kiss her, wanting to keep her in the bed until AFTER they finished eating.

"Uh huh. Now, can you excuse me? I have to go to the bathroom."

"OK - but get back here. I ordered us breakfast - but I wanted you to have breakfast in bed."

"Jeff - that's sweet and romantic, but not necessary. Let's just eat at the table, ok?"

"But..."

"Jeff - I appreciate the thought, HONESTLY - but eating in bed just gets MESSY."

"So? We can get in the shower and take care of cleaning up the mess when we finish eating."

"Jeff - do you ever get your mind off of sex?"

"Well - it's always on sex with you - so I guess I don't, but at least I'm faithful - even in my fantasies."

"MEN! Jeff - at home, you can give me breakfast in bed ~ but not here, ok?"

"Alright - but you aren't getting out of bed in the morning until AFTER I serve you your breakfast."

"Agreed. Now can I please get up and get to the bathroom?"

"Yeah - you can," Jeff said, hearing a knock at the outter door. "I'll get the food and bring it in for us."

"Thank you, baby," Rae answered, kissing him quickly as they went in opposite directions. Once in the bathroom, Rae realized she had woken up wearing nothing. "Damn!" she thought, "even if we are alone in here - I should have put SOMETHING on before I fell asleep!"

"Baby, are you coming?" Jeff asked, when she hadn't returned in about 10 minutes.

"I'll be right there," she called back through the door. "Jeff - can you throw me some clothes to wear. I can't eat while I'm naked!"

"But you look so sexy when you're naked!" Jeff answered. "But I will - just a second."

"I do NOT - but thank you!"

"Here you go - and don't argue with me. I know what sexy is - and believe me, baby - YOU ARE IT!"

"So, after breakfast - we're going to my doctor to get a blood pregnancy test done - and then home?"

"If that's what you want."

"As long as we get the doctor visit in, I don't care what we do afterwards."

"Hmmmm...well, maybe I will come up with something special for us. And princess, thank you so much for the get away - it was a great birthday and anniversary present."

"You're welcome. I didn't know what else to do - so I hoped you'd appreciate it."

[Forever_Lost]

:D Great as always. :D Silly Rae not staying in bed.

[Raevengeance]

Hey - when nature calls - that's what happens.

[Raevengeance]

After breakfast, Rachel made a quick call to her doctor's office and was able to be added onto the schedule first thing that morning, so she and Jeff packed the few things they brought with them, checked out of the hotel, and headed to the doctor's office.

"Good Morning, Rachel. How are you doing?"

"Hi Doctor Martin. Thanks for seeing me this morning."

"You said it was important."

"I had a positive pregnancy test at home last night - and I want a blood test to confirm it - and was hoping to have you help with my EDC."

"EDC?" Jeff asked sitting forward.

"Estimated Date of Confinement - more commonly referred to as my due date."

"And I'm guessing you are the expectant father?"

"Yes, he is - Jeff - this is my OBGYN, Dr. Martin. Dr. Martin, this is my husband, Jeff Timmons."

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Timmons."

"Please, it's Jeff."

"Alright - well, did our lab tech do the blood draw?"

"Yes."

"Well, while we're waiting for the results, let's get some history for you. You probably have a feeling that you are pregnant - which is why you chose to do the home test, correct?"

"Yes."

"Alright - your last period was?"

"February - sometime in the middle of the month."

"Alright - and I'm guessing you've been sexually active since that time?"

"Yes - but only a couple of times. Jeff's been out of town most of the past 3 months - so there have only been about 10 days where we were together before last night."

"Alright - and would the beginning of March have been a time where you were together?"

"Yes, we were," Jeff answered for Rachel.

"Well, let me see what the lab results say," Dr. Martin said, pulling up the electronic lab report for Rachel. "Well - the serum test also came back positive - so Congratulations. I take it this is a better situation for you than the last time you came in for a pregnancy test since you're not alone this time?"

"Correct," Rachel said smiling.

"Well, shall we do the initial exam now - and get it done?"

"If you don't mind, I'd appreciate it," Rachel said.

"Alright. Mr. Timmons, if you'll step outside with me for a few minutes while Rachel undresses."

"OK."

When Rachel finished undressing and putting on the hospital gown, she knocked on the door to let Jeff know he could return. "Oh, you're both there."

"Yes. Now, let's start with the basic physical."

As the physical progressed, Dr. Martin noticed something that was a little different than the estimated date of conception would suggest. "Rachel, I want you to get an ultrasound today - to help us verify your due date."

"Is there something wrong?"

"Wrong? Not exactly. But you're measuring a little bigger than what I'd expect for someone as far along as your last period date would suggest you are."

After Rachel returned from the ultrasound, Dr. Martin returned. "Did the tech explain anything to you?"

"No...she just made a few pictures for us for the scrapbook."

"Well, you did have triplets with your last pregnancy - and...it appears you are going to be having another multiple pregnancy."

"Triplets - again?" Rachel asked.

"Actually, from what we see on the ultrasound, it appears that you may be carrying quads this time around."

"FOUR!?!?"

"I want to see you back - with a full bladder - in the morning - so we can do another ultrasound and get a better picture of what's going on in your uterus."

[Baby_Girl89]

what's up with all that ovulating sissa? :P

[Raevengeance]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Enchantress84 @ 1/22/06, 11:41pm) 34886</div>
what's up with all that ovulating sissa? :P
[/b]

:P

Jeffers always wanted a family of 10 :P

[Baby_Girl89]

does that mean we're gonna end up finding out that she's having quints instead then? :P

[Raevengeance]

who knows at this point

[Baby_Girl89]

lol well you should sissa :P

[Raevengeance]

Nope - I don't know yet - haven't gotten that far yet ;)

[Baby_Girl89]

as if you don't have any ideas :P

[Forever_Lost]

Goodness.... can't Jeff just make one baby?

[Baby_Girl89]

he did twice with trish. it's sissa who can't make just one baby :P

[Raevengeance]

"Wow - I'm not only blessed to have ONE more child - but possibly four," Jeff said grinning as the pair left the doctor's office.

"Yeah," Rachel answered wondering how they would manage another set of multiples.

"You aren't excited?"

"I'm glad that we succeeded in conceiving so quickly - but...well..."

"You were hoping for only one child?"

"Well...yeah."

"I understand, baby. Now, let's go and have some lunch - before we head home to enjoy ourselves some more."

"Slow down, Jeff. I know this won't make sense to you - but...I'm sort of afraid to...now that I know we're having at least 3 - and probably 4 now."

"It's ok - we don't need to have that much fun. But we can enjoy some quiet time alone anyway. Then tomorrow we'll be back here - so we can get that other info for Dr. Martin."

"Thanks for being so understanding. I'll talk with her tomorrow - and you may not end up cut off for the rest of the pregnancy at least."

"Good - but there are times I wonder how safe it really is - particularly the further you progress in the pregnancy."

The next morning the pair arrived at the clinic at 8 AM for the extra ultrasound, hoping to hear good news - and in Rachel's case - that was that there had been a mistake the previous day - and she was only pregnant with a single child. During the ultrasound, neither Dr. Martin or the tech discussed anything they were viewing, and Rachel thought it was a little odd because for all her ultrasounds in the past, the tech was constantly explaining what it was that was visable on the screen.

"Dr. Martin?"

"Rachel, Jeff, I'm not sure exactly how to say this - but it appears that you are in the process of a spontaneous abortion."

"What?" Jeff asked as Rachel sat stunned.

"There was no cardiac activity seen during the ultrasound."

"But...yesterday?"

"Rachel, I know how hard this can be to hear, but since you were in yesterday - and I did verify with yesterday's tech that there had been some movement or cardiac activity - all the children you were presently carrying have started to be miscarried."

"NO! There has to be something!"

"Rae, it's for the best - remember - everything happens for a reason."

"But..."

"Mrs. Timmons, I am truly sorry. Would you like to discuss the options today - or would you prefer to come in at a later time?"

"Might as well discuss them now."

[Forever_Lost]

:Cry: That's sad! Poor Rae and Jeff!

[Raevengeance]

"Well, we can wait - and let nature take it's course, and allow your body to naturally eliminate the remains. Another option would be to have a D&C performed - there are risks with the procedure though. You need to know that."

"I understand. Jeff?"

"Rae, we'll do whatever you think is best for you," Jeff answered.

"I'll leave the two of you to discuss this alone. You can stay in this room - and I'll have my [arse]istant check on you in about ten minutes so we can further discuss your care, alright?"

"Thank you, doctor, that would be good" Jeff answered as Rachel sat silently, still shocked by the news.

As the doctor left the office, Jeff pulled Rachel close. "It's going to be ok."

"What...what do you think we should do?"

"Rae, sweetheart, we'll do whatever you decide."

"I just...I don't know."

"If you aren't sure, let's just wait and see what happens naturally for now. We can always come back and have the D&C performed."

"You're right...I just...I wish I knew WHY."

"Rachel?" Dr. Martin said opening the door slightly. "How are you doing?"

"I'm coming to terms with it. I don't suppose there is any way to determine what caused it?"

"Not really. If - when you do p[arse] the tissue or have the D&C - we can run some tests to see if we can tell what it was that caused the miscarraige, but there are no guarantees that we'll find anything definitive."

"We...we're going to wait for a little bit I think. If nothing happens in the next week - can..."

"Yes, we can schedule the procedure for next week. We could do this in the office - or as an outpatient procedure under anesthesia."

"Under anesthesia, definitely," Rachel answered quickly.

"Alright. Stop and schedule that with the receptionist on your way out. No eating or drinking after midnight the night before your procedure. My nurse will call with your other pre-surgical instructions."

"Thank you. I appreciate it."

"Just leave the door open when you are ready to leave, but don't rush. Take your time dealing with this."

[Forever_Lost]

good add.

[Baby_Girl89]

what the heck is a D&C. look at my sissa getting all technical on us. and of course rae automatically knows what it is :P.

good add sissa, so sad though. it reminds me of one of my other stories lol.

[Raevengeance]

D&C - Dilation & Currettage (and I know I spelled that wrong) :P Well - she worked in a hospital before moving to Cali to be with Timmons - so of course she knew what it was silly :P

[Baby_Girl89]

like i remember that far back :P.

and still that means what exactly? :P talk to me like the idiot i am. i mean i get that it has something to do with the miscarriage, but is that it?

[Raevengeance]

It's a procedure where they 'scrape' the contents of the uterus to remove them. It can be used in the case of a miscarriage where the body doesn't naturally 'dispose' of the unsustained pregnancy - or it can also be used if someone is having issues with their menstrual cycle (uncontrolled/heavy bleeding)

[Baby_Girl89]

see i never would've known about the second part. now i can give a question to that answer on jeopardy lol :D :P

[Raevengeance]

When the pair returned home, Jeff finally asked the question he had been harboring since they first met with the doctor that morning. "Rae, what exactly was Doctor Martin talking about - when she suggested a D&C?"

"Why didn't you ask her to explain it for you, Jeff?"

"Because I...I just...I didn't want to look like an idiot because I didn't know...especially since you seemed to know what she was talking about."

"Jeffrey - the only question that makes you look like an idiot is the one that you don't ask. BUT since you finally asked - it's a procedure where they dilate the cervix - then use a currette to scrape the contents out."

"Oh...ummm...are you sure you want to go through with that?"

"Jeff, it's ok - and it will only be done if my body doesn't complete the miscarriage on its own."

"Alright - but - how did you know all of this?"

"You forget, I worked in a hospital, silly. I saw plenty of hospital charts when one needed to be done."

"Oh..."

"Jeff - what are you thinking?"

"Just that...remembering some of the complications that Dr. Martin mentioned."

"Which ones, Jeff?"

"Well - she said it could prevent a pregnancy from occurring."

"A slight chance that it would affect fertility - and she also said that that complication typically arose only after having to have the procedure performed multiple times."

"I..."

"Jeff - do you not want me to have the procedure performed?"

"No - it would definitely be better for you to have it than risk..."

"OK - and we've got a week to deal with our questions, ok. I know we had planned for this week - and next to be about just the two of us - but do you want to call and see if our babysitters mind us picking up the kiddies early?"

"No...it's ok, unless you want them to be here."

"Oh no - it's ok - probably easier for them to not even know about this pregnancy, and if they were here - they'd find out about it because one of us would bring it up in front of them."

"You're right - we really DO need to talk about this - and what it means to our family's future."

"Are you...do you mean you're leaving me?"

"What??? NO! I just meant are we going to try for more children again - or will we change to the another of the plans to give us one more chance - or do we accept that our family is complete with the five kids we do have?"

"Oh...I..."

"Rae, sweetheart, it's ok - I know it's a little much to think of right now since we only just found out that...that..."

"That this pregnancy ended itself early?"

"Yeah - that's what I was trying to find the way to say."

[Forever_Lost]

Great add! :)
I hope they decide to have more children.

[Baby_Girl89]

i hope if they plan to have more she can. this story is really starting to remind me of one of mine 'cept getting pregnant was always the easy part for my character lol.

[Raevengeance]

~Chapter 27~

During the week following the news that Rachel had miscarried her second pregnancy, Jeff attempted to draw out her feelings on the loss as well as what she would prefer to do as far as continuing to expand their family in the future, but each time he even broached the subject, Rae left the room - even moving to a guest bedroom if the topic was brought up after they went to bed for the night.

Finally, the day before she was scheduled to have the D & C done because she had not yet begun to p[arse] the remnants of the pregnancy, Jeff forced her to stop and at talk to him about how she was feeling about what was happening to the two of them. "Rae, sweetheart," Jeff said, coming up behind her and holding her close to him. "I KNOW this is difficult for you - it has to be, why won't you even talk to me about it? You need to get your feelings out about this - so it doesn't cause problems between us."

"I...I'm sorry, Jeff...I..."

"What is it, Rae? I want to make things ok for you - so things stay ok for us."

"I'm sorry - I know you wanted these babies - and now...."

"Oh, angel! Yes, I wanted us to share the experience of having another child together - but YOU are so much more important to me than another child. You really shouldn't keep your feelings inside - and I want to be there for you - it's hurt so much when you've left the room when I tried talking to you before today."

"I just...Jeff, I know what you've been trying to do - but...I...I need to deal with things myself - in my own way - before I can even attempt to verbalize what I'm feeling to anyone else - no matter HOW MUCH I want to be able to talk to another person."

"I...I understand - but please - don't shut me out. Tell me you're not ready to talk - but let me be there to hold you as you work your way through your feelings. It's part of being there for you - and experiencing everything with you."

[Baby_Girl89]

good, but short, i need more.

[Raevengeance]

I've told you before - I don't have this written out - sooooooo there's more coming - when I get the 'inspiration' (and/or time) to write more :P

[Forever_Lost]

:) great add

[Baby_Girl89]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(*~*Rae_Luvs_Jeff*~* @ 3/20/06, 05:07am) 39082</div>
I've told you before - I don't have this written out - sooooooo there's more coming - when I get the 'inspiration' (and/or time) to write more :P
[/b]
well :Tounge:

[Raevengeance]

The next morning, the pair arrived at the hospital for the procedure, hoping that everything would go smoothly and that the doctor would approve a rather swift return to another attempt for a pregnancy. "Before we start the procedure, we need to do a couple of lab tests."

"I understand," Rachel answered, as the lab tech drew a vial of blood from her arm.

After waiting for a short while, Dr. Martin came into the room. "Rachel, there are a couple disturbing items with your lab work from today."

"What? What's wrong?" Jeff asked, worried that there was something seriously wrong with his wife.

"Dr. Martin?"

"One of the tests was a quantitative hCG - which gives us a level for the hormone produced when you are successfully carrying a pregnancy," Dr. Martin explained. "According to those results, it would appear that you DO have a viable pregnancy. But - with the lack of heart sounds on the doptones and the ultrasound - it appears that the pregnancies aren't viable."

"So now what do we do?" Rachel asked, knowing Jeff was thinking the same thing.

"Well, I have the ultrasound tech coming in and we're going to do both an abdominal and a vaginal ultrasound to see what we can find out from those. If we don't have anything definitive from those, we may need to wait to do this until the hormone levels drop or we can get a guarantee that the pregnancy is truly non-viable."

"So, what you're saying, I may still be pregnant with at least one child - but the rest are sort of cluttering the ultrasounds?"

"It's possible; or, because of the multiple pregnancy, your body may not have registered the fact that the pregnancies have been miscarried. So, what I want you to do - is come in weekly for the lab work - and when it starts decreasing as we'd expect in a terminated pregnancy, we will reschedule the procedure unless you naturally p[arse] the miscarried babies."

"OK - so I can go eat?"

"Yes, you can. But - I want you to abstain from sexual contact until after we are able to determine the true status of this pregnancy."

"No problem, Doctor," Jeff agreed. "Can I ask, how will this affect Rachel's ability to become pregnant in the future?"

"Honestly, Mr. Timmons - it is hard to say. One miscarriage shouldn't affect her ability to achieve and sustain a pregnancy, but we may find - as this miscarriage completes itself - that there are more complex issues involved. Or - as I said before, she may still be carrying a viable pregnancy. I will say - if there is a viable pregnancy, I want to schedule you for a C-Section, Rachel. Because if the pregnancy continues, the miscarried infants will not be released from the uterus, and natural labor could cause issues if the stillbirths were to be delivered before the living child."

"I completely understand. There was an issue similar to that for my grandmother - but that was back in the days when if natural labor started, they wouldn't convert to a C-Section."

"Well, let's see what we can determine from the ultrasound," Dr. Martin said. "Well, I'm not seeing anything different than what we saw last week...so we are going to go ahead with the weekly lab tests until we have a diffinitive answer one way or the other."



Author's Note: hCG - is a medical abbreviation for the hormone that is used to determine if there is a pregnancy. The higher the level - the further along/more stable the pregnancy. Also ~ I do NOT know if it is possible for one pregnancy to sustain while multiple others don't. Just writing what I HOPE is interesting

[Baby_Girl89]

i think it's plausible up to a certain point. i don't think it would work for the entire term of a pregnancy. but good add sissa.

[Forever_Lost]

good add

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 28

Time went on - and with it - the realization that Rachel was indeed carrying a viable pregnancy - although she also had miscarried at least three babies, even though it never completed the process. About the time Rachel would be 36 weeks pregnant based on her original pregnancy test since there was no way of knowing for sure if the surviving baby was one of the babies originally conceived or one conceived at a later date, her doctor chose to schedule her for a repeat C-Section.

"Tomorrow's the big day," Jeff said, smiling happily about the planned addition to the family.

"And it's about time. Jeff, I know you wanted this - and I'm glad you've been able to actually be home to experience the full pregnancy with me, but don't be too upset with me when I tell you, I'm scared to death about tomorrow."

"Why?"

"Jeff - yes, we'll have a new little baby to love and cherish along with the other five, but ..."

"But what?"

"But...I'm also going to be delivering the babies that aren't living."

"Oh...I...I never even thought about that."

"I know - I don't think either of us did, really. But ...it's something we need to be ready to face. There won't be much that is 'recognizable' as a baby I would guess based on how early in the pregnancy they self-terminated, but..."

"But you carried them to 9 months and it's going to be hard for you to accept that you lost your babies?" Jeff continued for her.

"Yeah...but it's that I lost some of OUR children - not just mine."

"I know. Is there anything we can do to possibly make this easier?"

"I'm not sure."

"Are we going to name all of the kids? Or just the one who is alive?"

"They're our kids - I think we should actually name each of them if their sex is able to be determined at least."

[Forever_Lost]

*sniffle* :( I hope everything goes well for them.

[Raevengeance]

"What do you mean?"

"Jeff - until a certain point in their development, you can't tell if a developing baby is going to be a boy or a girl - without genetic tests to actually analyze the DNA."

"Ahhhhh...."

"So, any ideas for baby names?"

"Well - we did have an alphabet thing going - might as well keep it up."

"OK - let's come up with some names - that are unisex - for up to five children - since they never really said how many we were going to have."

"Alright. And we are up to E?"

"That would be correct."

"Hmmmm....that may not work too well."

"Well what are some names you like?"

"Well - Elizabeth - Grace - Heather - Kaitlyn - Michael ..."

"I like all those names, too, Jeff - but what if we are able to determine that we had more than one son?"

"Well - we can come up with something for that if it comes down to it."

"Alright . I think that will work....and if need be - we can always search for something else."

"Exactly, but we'll be prepared at least."

"You know - I'm glad that Tina agreed to let the kids stay with her when I go to the hospital in the morning."

"I am too - although, my folks would have come down and stayed with them."

"Your parents should be at the hospital - with you. You're gonna be a nervous wreck tomorrow."

"I'm going to be in the operating room with you. Because you'll need me - and I do want to be there as our child - well children - enter the world, even though we know that not all of them are going to be alive."

"Are you sure? I mean - are you sure you can handle that?"

"It may be hard - but, I want to show love to all our children."

"I understand...but...Jeff - I don't know if I can do it."

[Baby_Girl89]

you know sissa i saw this one program where a woman had her dead fetus in her body for fifty years, except instead of being in the uterus like normal babies it had buried itself in her abdominal cavity or something like that. i forgot what they called it.

anyway i need more now please.

[Forever_Lost]

more por favor

[Raevengeance]

"What do you mean?"

"I just...I don't know that I'll be able to handle seeing our non-living children."

"Baby, if you can't, that's alright. You can only do what you can handle, and no one expects you to do anything more, ok?"

"Thanks, Jeff - I feel terrible about this - but..."

"You don't need to explain. I do understand how you're feeling."

"I'm glad someone does. I have this feeling that I would be getting crap for feeling this way from quite a few people."

"Hey - we all handle grief in our own ways. So don't worry about what ANYONE else says - you understand me? I know you've grieved from the day we found out that you were suffering from a miscarriage," Jeff said, hoping to make her feel better about her personal feelings.

"Thanks, Jeff."

~~~~~~~~~~~

The Next Morning - at the hospital

"Have you experienced any contractions, Mrs. Timmons?"

"No - I haven't felt anything like that."

"Well, the anesthesiologist will be in shortly to do their exam - and your doctor will be in shortly as well to go over what to expect with the c-section."

"Thanks."

After the exam by the anesthesiologist, Dr. Martin came into the room where Rachel and Jeff were waiting. "Well, everything should go rather quickly. Rachel, I know we've discussed this, but I want to make sure that you are both on the same page with this. As we deliver the non-surviving infants, do you want the chance to view them - and touch them? Also - do you want us to do an autopsy or send tissue for analysis to see if we can determine what caused the miscarriage?"

"I'd like the chance to see them and spend time with them," Jeff answered. "And I know Rachel said she had already talked about the analysis to attempt to determine the cause - and I agree with her on that."

"Alright. Rachel - have you changed your mind about seeing the children?"

"No - I'm not strong enough to do it. But - we will get momentos of them, right?"

"Yes - our grief counseling team will make sure you get anything that you want to remember them...Now, Mr. Timmons, you can come with me - and get scrubbed in to be in the OR for the procedure."

"Alright. Love you, Rae - and I'll see you in a little bit," Jeff said, following Dr. Martin out of the room as a nurse returned to finish prepping Rachel for the C-Section.

[Forever_Lost]

great add. :)

[Baby_Girl89]

good add. more please.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 29 ~

Once everything was prepped, Jeff enterred the operating room with Dr. Martin. "I'm going to ask you to stay up by her head - other than when I ask you to come down to cut the cord of your living child - or children since we aren't exactly sure what we are going to find out happened here."

"Alright."

"Mr. Timmons - this is our NeoNatal Intensive Care team. We aren't sure we'll need their expertise, but to be on the safe side, I asked them to attend the birth as well. Mr. Timmons, based on the ultrasounds, it's going to be easier to deliver the non-living children first. I just want you to know because Rachel had wanted the living child delivered first. "

"I do understand. Thank you."

"Alright - is everyone ready?" Dr. Martin asked, before making the initial incision. "Mr. Timmons, do you mind if I announce the gender and status of each infant as they're delivered?"

"Do I mind? No - and Rachel is out so go ahead."

"Alright," Dr. Martin said, as she prepared to deliver the first child. "Baby 'A' - indeterminate sex - stillborn," she announced p[arse]ing the tissue that was - at one time - a living child to one of the nurses in the room before turning to deliver the remaining babies. One at a time, she'd announce the baby identifier - indeterminate sex - and stillborn. After going through letters A through D, Jeff hoped the next would be their surviving child. "Baby E - Boy - living. Doctor Vaughn- we need your attention though."

"What is it?" Jeff asked, wanting to know that this son would survive.

"Mr. Timmons, please. Let Dr. Vaughn and his staff help your son," Dr. Martin said, stopping Jeff from following the neonatal team.

"But..."

"Jeff, please, listen to me. Your son has some problems. You need to let the specialists have the room to take care of him," Dr. Martin reiterated. "And I need to know you won't interfere with their work while I finish the surgery on Rachel."

"I promise," Jeff said, looking towards the one child who was not declared stillborn at delivery. "Would it be..."

"You want to spend time with your stillborn children?" Dr. Martin finished for him.

"Yes, please. If that would be alright."

"Yes that's fine. Nurse Anderson - can you take him over there."

"Thank you."

"Well, everything else appears normal," Dr. Martin thought to herself as she turned to the tubal ligation that Rachel had also requested when planning this admission. When finished, she went to see how the surviving child was doing.

"It doesn't look good. It appears that there was a lack of nutrition to this child...and I don't know that there is anything we can do to reverse that situation."

"That doesn't completely surprise me - there were 3 placentas attached to the uterus - and this little guy's was off in a small curve of the uterus."

"I think we need to let them know - so they can spend time with him before he p[arse]es away."

"I want to do everything we can to keep him alive - until Rachel comes out from the anesthesia. I'll bring his dad over now though," Dr. Martin said, turning to where Jeff was standing only a few feet away. "Jeff, I need to talk to you."

"What is it?"

"Your son - Mr. Timmons, the neonatal team doesn't think they can do anything for him. I've asked them to do everything possible - so that Rachel can see and hold him when she comes out of the anesthesia, but I thought you'd want to spend as much time with him as you possibly can - before he succumbs to his medical problems."

"Thank you."

[Forever_Lost]

But why? :(

[Baby_Girl89]

sissaaaaaaaaaa why do you have to make everything so depressing? :Cry:

and jeff seems awfully calm about this.

[Raevengeance]

because - depressing comes easy for me - must come from the depression I live with daily


and maybe jeff's putting up a front at the moment.

[Raevengeance]

"Can I hold him?" Jeff asked as he was led to where the neonatal team had been working on his son.

"Of course, the more contact with people who love him the better."

"Hey, little guy. Mommy and daddy love you - and we want to be able to take you home to your brothers and sisters so they can love on you too," Jeff said softly, marvelling at the small size of his youngest child, fighting to stay positive for this little child - in hopes that his son would feel the positive energy - and find a way to fight through the medical problems the doctors were discussing.

"Mr. Timmons - I know you haven't had much time - but we need to get this operating room set up for another surgery. "

"But..."

"It's ok - we'll move you and the children to the room Rachel will be moved to when she is ready to leave the post-op unit."

"But..."

"You'll have time to spend with all of them, and I know that Mrs. Timmons didn't want to see the still born children. We'll make sure that we honor her wishes, while still giving you the chance to say goodbye to them that you want and need."

"Thank you."

"No need to thank me. We all know this is difficult for both of you - we just want to make sure that both you and your wife get the closure that you each need. Now how is the little guy doing?"

"He's amazing, but he's so small."

"Just keep showering him with your love. It could very well help him with the prognosis for survival."

"I will - thank you."

After about 20 minutes in the new room, Dr. Martin came into see how Jeff was doing. "Mr. Timmons, we're about ready to bring Rachel in. Do you want to be here when we explain the medical situation to her?"

"Yes - she'll need me to support her when she hears the news, and since you only told me the prognosis wasn't good, I'd like to know more of what is going on with him as well," Jeff answered.

"

[Forever_Lost]

Aw... I hope the little guy pulls through.

[Raevengeance]

"Alright - we'll make sure that you both are here to understand what we're seeing as the medical conditions your son is facing," Dr. Martin said. "Have you had enough time to say goodbye to the other babies?"

"Actually, I've been focusing my attention on this little one," Jeff answered.

"Do you want us to wait to take them down for the testing then? I'm only asking because I know that Rachel said she didn't want to see them," Dr. Martin said.

"Please wait for that...I just..."

"I understand - and don't feel badly about focusing on your living child. He needs the attention the most. I'll just move the others behind this curtain, so that you can still have time with them when you have the chance, and you can let us know when you're ready for us to take them down, alright?"

"Thank you, Dr. Martin," Jeff answered, somewhat relieved that he wouldn't be rushed as he attempted to spend time with each of the children that were just born.

"It is part of my job, and I do truly understand what you are going through. One of our grief nurses will be in to talk to you and Rachel as well - and to make arrangements to get you any momentos you want of each of the children," Dr. Martin answered, before leaving to coordinate Rachel's move to her regular hospital room.

"Mr. Timmons, I'm Andi, and I've been [arse]igned to be the support person for you and your wife as you deal with your loss. Dr. Martin said that you wanted the babies moved behind the room curtain?"

"Yes please. My wife didn't want to see them - but this guy needed my attention so I haven't had my goodbye time with them yet."

"That's very understandable. Do you want photos of them?"

"Could we have some done? I forgot to bring our camera and I'd really like something more than the typical baby keepsakes."

"Of course you can. I'll get our photographer to come in and take them for you."

"Thank you so much."

[Forever_Lost]

:(

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 30

Once Rachel was moved into the room, Dr. Martin and Dr. Vaughn came in to explain the situation. "Mrs. Timmons, Mr. Timmons, there are some problems."

"What is it?" Rachel asked quickly.

"Because of the way his placenta was attached in your uterus, he wasn't able to get all the nutrition we would expect a babe to get from you during your pregnancy," Dr. Martin started.

"But you'll do tube feedings or whatever it takes to make him better, right?" Rachel said, interrupting the doctor's explanation.

"Mrs. Timmons, there isn't really anything that we can do for him," Dr. Vaughn replied.

"But…"

"We will do what we can – but you need to be prepared for the worst case scenario. I would suggest that you attempt breast feeding him – because mother's milk is better for babies because of the added antibodies."

"I'll try…"

"That's all we can ask, Rachel," Dr. Martin said. "It will also probably help to have lots of skin-to-skin contact with him as well. Do you have any other recommendations, Dr. Vaughn?"

"No, no other suggestions right now."

"Thank you," Rachel said as the neonatologist left the room.

"Rachel, I'll send the lactation counselor in for you. I would strongly encourage taking him to breast as soon as possible," Dr. Martin said. "And I am sorry for the brusqueness of Dr. Vaughn."

"Thank you Dr. Martin – I will try feeding him right away."

"Here you go, Rae," Jeff said handing their tiny son to her.

"God – he's so small. What…what about the others?"

"Honestly, I haven't spent much time with them. But they're all much smaller than this little guy."

"Excuse me. Dr. Martin asked me to come in and help get your baby to breastfeed."

"Hi – and thank you. I don't really know what I'm doing."

"No problem. Let's start by seeing how his natural instinct for suckling is. My name is Emily, by the way." After a few minutes of observing the tiny newborn attempting to suckle on his own, Rachel was encouraged to pull him away from her breast. "Well, his suck instinct is definitely there. That's a good thing. He looks like he's just going to need some help getting the nipple where he can stay latched. Let's try with a nipple shield first. Sometimes that gives enough form that a baby can successfully latch when used. And it also helps alleviate some soreness for the mom that is caused by breast feeding." After again attempting to get the young babe to attach to Rachel's breast, Emily suggested another option. "Well – that didn't work too well either. It could just be that he's so tiny – and your nipples are relatively big for such a tiny guy. Maybe the best alternative for the time being would be pumping and feeding."

[Forever_Lost]

I hope the little guy pulls through.

[Raevengeance]

WARNING! ADULT CONTENT IMPLIED - DO NOT READ IF IT OFFENDS OR IF YOU ARE UNDER AGE!














"That's a possibility, but Dr. Martin was encouraging the breast feeding for the skin-to-skin contact as well as the benefits of breast milk."

"Well, Mrs. Timmons, we can keep attempting it – but your little guy looks mighty hungry so let's try to cup feed him after you pump a bit. The pump may also help get your nipples into the right form they need to be in for the little guy to suckle properly."

"Alright."

"I'll be right back with a pump you can use while you're here – and we'll help you get one for home if the little guy ends up staying here for a while. While I'm gone, keep trying to get him to take your nipple and feed."

"OK."

"This can't be my son," Jeff said jokingly after Emily left the room.

"What?"

"Because, if he was my son – he'd be just like his daddy – and NEVER let go when put in front of your breasts to suckle."
"TIMMONS! You leave them all the time! You're so intent on tongue-[freak]ing me."

"And you enjoy when I tongue-[freak] you too – don't deny it. Although – you enjoy being [freak]ed in general, it doesn't matter WHAT part of my anatomy is pumping into your body."

"Jeffrey!"

"What? It's the truth. You love sex and there is absolutely NOTHING to be ashamed of by admitting it."

"What if someone walked in and heard you?"

"God! My prudish wife is back. I hope you realize that in about six weeks we are starting a date night policy – and my lovable - and [freak]able - sex-maniac groupie wife is going to be brought back to stay!"

"What?"

"You heard me. You were so open to EVERYTHING until you found out about the miscarriage. I want the pre-miscarriage Rachel back! And you still owe me a tattoo."

"What are you making me have permanently put on my body?"

"Well, it's changed – unless you're willing to get two of them now."

"What are they, Jeff?"

"Well – one would be – and this is the one you ARE getting – a cloud with four little angels on it – for the four little ones who didn't make it to being a full part of our lives."

"And the other one?"

"It's a girl – with devil horns and angel wings. And it's going to say 'JT's Devilish Angel'."

"Where do you think these are going on my body?"

"The one in memory of our children is going to go on your shoulder – and that one is going to be one that I get as well – although, I'm going to get it on the arm opposite my 98 tattoo."

"And this Devil Angel?"

"On your [arse] – where only I will see it."

"NO! I am NOT showing some slimy tattoo artist my [arse] just so you can get off."

"You promised me!"

"But…"

"I know – I also said you would get veto power on it too. But I do want us both to get the angels for the little ones."

[Forever_Lost]

'JT's Devilish Angel' LOL! Jeff is funny.

[Raevengeance]

he's also sex-starved at the moment :P

[Forever_Lost]

lol poor guy

[Raevengeance]

"Hi, how are things going?" Emily asked as she came back into the room.

"Fine. So how…"

"Wow – it seems like the little guy figured it out. That's good."

"How long do I leave him on each breast?"

"For now, leave him until he lets go – or you stop feeling the sucking pressure."

"Then burp him?"

"A bit, yes. But you don't need to burp a breast feeding baby as much because they don't get the air bubbles as much as bottle fed babies."

"Oh…ok," Rachel said as the little boy stopped sucking.

"So, what is this little guy's name?" Emily asked as she helped Rachel get him situated on the other side.

"Well, we hadn't really decided on a name before he was born," Rachel answered. "Jeff – do you have any ideas? Jeff – where are you?" she asked noticing that he wasn't in the chair next to the bed.

"Sorry, Rae – I was over here. But no, I don't have any ideas for a name…sorry."

"Hmmm…well – we had been working our way through the alphabet with our other kids – but we never really did come up with names for the babies from this pregnancy."

"Babies?" Emily asked. "And you're only breastfeeding the one?"

"He's the only one who wasn't stillborn. The others – we actually knew they had been miscarried early in the pregnancy."

"Oh…so where were you in the alphabet?"

"We have the letters A thru D and J covered so far."

"You have five kids besides this little one? You should be a professional lactation consultant."

"Well - actually – this little guy is only my fourth – but I had triplets before – and I chose to not breast feed them. The other two are Jeff's from a previous relationship."

"So – are you looking at letter E for him?"

"Jeff – can you get over here so we can talk about this?"

"Sorry, princess, I was just saying goodbye to the other little ones."

"It's ok. So – what are we naming all of them?"

"Well – I was thinking – maybe – we just pick names we like – and don't worry about the alphabet," Jeff suggested. "And – as for this little one – I was kind of thinking – I like the name Ethan."

"That's a nice name, I like it. What about…"

"The other babies?"

"Yeah…"

"Well – you seem to have things under control. Just remember that a feeding can take up to 45 minutes to complete when breast feeding. If you have any other questions or more help – have them page me."

"Thanks, Emily. You've been a big help today."

"So, Rae – how is our boy, Ethan?"

"He's a hungry little guy – and I think he's proven he is his father's son – with his love of breast feeding."

"You know I was joking about that."

"Yes, Jeff – but it was kind of funny," Rachel said with a smile. "But – do we know the sexes of the stillborn babies?"

"Yeah – Dr. Martin said there were two girls and two boys."

"Wow – a nice balanced family for us. So, any ideas for names?"

"Well – I know that you have a few names that you like – so let's use them: Aria, Brett, Catherine, and Dominic."

"OK – those work for me."

[Forever_Lost]

Great add. :D Nice to see little Ethan doing ok so far.

[Baby_Girl89]

well i'm finally caught up, and i want more :D

[Raevengeance]

I didn't forget, Jenners

I promise, I'll get it typed for ya tomorrow.

[Raevengeance]

Revamped chapter posted in next post

comments relating to the ORIGINAL post of chapter 31 deleted because they wouldn't make sense now :P

[Raevengeance]

CHAPTER 31

"Jeff, I know..."

"What is it?" Jeff asked when she didn't finish her thought.

"I know I said I didn't want to...see the..."

"See the babies that didn't survive?" Jeff finished for her.

"Yeah...could...do you think there's a chance for me to see them yet? And is there a way for them to get a blessing from pastoral care?"

"Of course. I'll go ask someone about the blessing first, then I'll bring them over for you to see, this way you aren't dealing with all your emotions all alone," Jeff added before turning to leave.

"Jeff - can you see about them putting Ethan in the nursery for a little bit, please."

"Sure thing," Jeff said, taking the now sleeping baby from Rachel's arms before heading into the hall. A couple of steps from the room, Jeff ran into both Andi (the grief support person assigned to help the Timmons family) and Rachel's nurse, Amy. "Amy, can you put Ethan in the nursery for a little while. Rachel wants a short break."

"I can - but it really is better for the infant to be with the parents as much as possible."

"We realize that - but for now, it will be better for him to be in the nursery. Rachel decided she wanted to spend some time with the other babies - and have them blessed if possible," he added turning to Andi.

"No problem. I'll go get one of our chaplains to come do the blessing for you."

"Thank you."

"Mr. and Mrs. Timmons, I'm Father Smith – and I'm here to do the blessing on your children."

"It's nice to meet you, Father Smith," Jeff answered.

"I'm truly sorry about the circumstances involved," Fr. Smith said as Jeff led him to where the infants were located. As he pulled the holy water from his pocket, he said a soft prayer commending the lives of the four babies to their Heavenly Father. After the blessing, Andi returned with the items to mark the blessings just administered.

"Thank you. Andi, I think they can be taken for the autopsies now. I think we're done saying our goodbyes to the four of them," Jeff said, seeing Rachel kiss each of the four before returning to her bed.

"Rachel?"

"Jeff's right. It's time."

"Alright, if you're sure. What about grandparents?"

"They'll get their chances at the funeral. Now, I'd like an idea of what happened – if they can find anything at least."

"Alright. Let me get your nurse in here – and we may be able to move you to the post-partum area so you won't see us taking them away at least. Otherwise, I may ask the two of you to leave anyway. You may think you're ready, but seeing us take them is going to be harder than you're expecting right now," Andi explained, pushing the call light.

"What are we needing, Mrs. Timmons?" Amy asked entering the room.

"Do you think that she's ready to move to post-partum? They said they're ready for us to take the babies for the autopsies, but…"

"Let me see what's happening with your recovery," Amy said, understanding exactly what Andi was thinking. "Well, it appears we can move you. Let me go get your room assignment and we'll get you moved and situated, then your friends and family can come and visit you both."

"Friends and family?" Rachel repeated.

"Yeah – they said they were Jeff's brothers and his sister."

"Jeff??"

"I'll go see who it is, since we didn't tell anyone what was going on," Jeff said, following Amy to the waiting room. "Guys, what are you all doing here?" he asked, seeing his former band mates in the waiting room.

"We are family, right?" Drew said.

"And we also know this is a difficult time for you – so we wanted to be here to offer our moral support to both you and Rachel."

"Thanks guys. It's been hard, and they're getting ready to move Rae, so when they get her situated I'll come get all you guys – and you can meet Ethan."

"Thanks, Jeff. But if you want us to leave, let us know, ok?" Drew offered, realizing this may not be the right time for them to all just show up.

"It's cool. My folks ended up not making it down here, and it was too far for Rae's parents – and Tina and Mike are watching the other five kids for us, so they won't be here. It'll be nice to have someone else around to talk with."

"OK, if you're sure."

"I am. I'm gonna go so that I'm with Rae when they move her, but I'll get you all when she's ready for visitors."

"Give her our love, man," Nick said.

"Of course," Jeff said as Amy stopped to let him know they were moving Rachel again.

[Baby_Girl89]

great now i need more :D

[Raevengeance]

THE END (not really - i gotta write the epilogue yet)

how's that for more for ya, Jenners? ;) :P

[a7xnsl98d]

Yay! I finally got through it all! It's taken me awile, but I've made it! I like it, Rae! You shouldn't have doubted it WAY back there! :Big Grin:

[Raevengeance]

You haven't finished it yet - cuz I haven't finished.

But glad you enjoyed it so far, Tasha ;)

[Baby_Girl89]

sissa you are such a tease. maybe i should keep from adding until you get yours up :P. just kidding i'll add two more tonight, but then we'll see.

[a7xnsl98d]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Rachie~Rae @ 7/10/06, 11:00pm) 48496</div>
You haven't finished it yet - cuz I haven't finished.

But glad you enjoyed it so far, Tasha ;)
[/b]

I'm just happy that I got caught up! :Tounge:

[Raevengeance]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Angelic_Siren84 @ 7/10/06, 10:21pm) 48501</div>
sissa you are such a tease. maybe i should keep from adding until you get yours up :P. just kidding i'll add two more tonight, but then we'll see.
[/b]

I am not a tease - :Angel:

And you better be glad - I may actually do another chapter or two instead of just the epilogue :P

[Baby_Girl89]

good it's not ready to be over yet so there :P

[Raevengeance]

yes it is - it's been ready to be over with for a couple of years now :P

[Baby_Girl89]

oh blah. by the way in case you missed it i finished chapter 63 :P.

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 32

After only a week in the NICU (neo-natal intensive care unit), Ethan was discharged home with his parents, who were still struggling with the decision of where to bury the other four infants because they were interested in leaving California, but they just weren't sure where they wanted to move.

"Rae, I know we've talked about moving – but where do we want to move the family?"

"I don't know, Jeff. I mean – I don't want to take Alyssa or J too far from the Speery family – or from your family either, but we're so far away from my family – I don't know how well any of the kids will get to know MY family."

"I understand that – and I completely agree – there has to be a compromise so all our kids can know all sides of their extended family."

"If you can figure out how – you tell me. But then there is the other issue – how are the kids going to take a move?"

"Well – Ethan won't know any different – Destiny, Chris, and Bryleigh won't know much either. And as for J and Aly – they'll get used to it – it's not like they're in junior high or high school."

"I guess – but…"

"You don't want to be the evil-step-mom who makes them move away from their friends and family," Jeff finished when Rachel paused.

"Exactly."

"You won't be. Moving has NEVER been the direct cause for the death of a child. Yes, they may be upset initially, but they will eventually come to love the new house as much as they love it here. And you know I agree with you about moving. This area is WAY too stuck on material things – and yes, I know that problem exists everywhere – but not to the same extent as out here. Other places, you need the 75 dollar jeans to be 'cool' – out here you need to be paying 500 bucks for the 'cool' jeans."

"Or you could be like me – and just buy the discount store jeans that cost 25 bucks," Rachel countered.

"That too – but you know what I meant."

"So – we're back to our discussion of WHERE to move?"

"Well – is there anywhere that YOU want to live?"

"Don't get into that with me."

"You know what I mean. We've talked about a few different places – do any of them really appeal to you?"

"Nashville is beautiful – but that puts you quite a distance away from Los Angeles and the music industry."

"There are these things called airplanes that can take me wherever needed for the group, you know."

"Shut it. You know what I mean – that would create quite a bit of travel for you…and the same goes for any of the other areas out on the East coast of the US where I'd love to live just for the historical value. So, I vote for staying closer to the West Coast – where a trip to L.A. would only be a short plane trip when needed which would give you more time with the kids even when busy working on an album or whatever."

"Alright – so where out in this part of the country?"

"Well – I don't wanna live in the desert – I can't stand the extreme heat, and I'm a mid-west girl – no matter how much I complained about snow, I want the chance to see it a little bit – as long as it's not a huge blizzard like amount."

"OK – so how about the mountains in Northern Arizona – near Jenn?"

"Well – if we are going to keep the fan clubs going – it would be nice for us to actually work together on them – instead of the way we had been doing things."

"OK – so when you and Ethan get the clearance to travel from your docs, we can go and look at properties there and see if we can find what we want to call home for the rest of our lives."

"Jeff, are we going to be looking for a home that has already been built – or just land to build a home for what we need and want?"

"Well – we can do either. But we'd be able to move sooner if we find a pre-existing home."

"You do have a point there."

"Of course I do, now, we should make a list of some of the things we want in our new home, ok?"

"Yeah – I'll write it down and then maybe we can find something online even."

[Raevengeance]

"So, what are we looking for?"

"Well, this is hopefully our last home, right?"

"Right."

"Well, I'd like to see 6 bedrooms in addition to a master bedroom suite – so each of the kids has their own room. My preference would be for the master to be on the main level – with it's own bathroom obviously. I'd also like at least 2 bathrooms upstairs for the kids to share – maybe 3 so it's 2 kids per bathroom – and at least a half-bath downstairs for guests to the house. It would be nice to have at least 3 bedrooms for guests – since none of our family is from this area. At least a 2 car garage – probably attached to avoid the elements in the HOT weather."

"I completely agree with you – but maybe have a separate guest house for visitors from out of town, instead of adding those rooms to the main home," Jeff said. "And I want a pool."

"Yeah, a pool would be good – but I want it fenced in – with only one way in – that is locked unless one of us is able to be outside watching the kids using the pool."

"Why?"

"Jeff – it doesn't take long at all for a child to drown in a pool – and I don't want to see that happening to any of our kids."

"I guess I understand what you're saying, but…"

"But what, Jeff?"

"But don't you think the kids are old enough?"

"Not even Alyssa is at the moment…in a couple of years, yeah – but I want her to take the lifeguard training courses so she will know what to do if something should happen – and I don't believe they allow kids into the junior lifesaver program until they're at least 11."

"I guess I see what you're saying, but the kids may not see it that way."

"That's just too bad, isn't it? It's either going to be fenced in and locked unless one of us is outside with them – or it's going to remain empty."

"Alright – they'll survive, you're right…you're right."

"Thank you. Now, maybe we should see what we can spot online in the area," Rachel suggested.

[Baby_Girl89]

boy is jeff dense in the pool department lol. even a locked pool and watched children can drown. my brother almost did about seventeen years ago. i was the one who found him at the bottom of the pool.

anyway how old are all the kids right now?

[Raevengeance]

Yeah - but it seems most people in CA dont' have fences around pools (and I don't get it - you'd think it would be an insurance thing)

as for the ages thing - I gotta figure out what year i'm in again - and i'll let ya know the kiddies' ages (cuz i am a tad confuzzed on that count myself right now)

[Baby_Girl89]

lmao okies

[Raevengeance]

OK - as a reference for Izzy (and me) and anyone else who happens to read this:
A short time-line for the story ;)

2003 - story starts Spring - Alyssa 4, Little J turns 2 (in the fall of the year)
2004 - Jeff's divorce/birth of the triplets (August)
2005 - April - Jeff & Rae get married
2006 - Late Feb/March/April - 98 on Tour - March/April - Rae get's pregnant ~ Dec - Ethan's Born
2007 - Where we are at now in the story - getting ready for a move
Kids: Alyssa - 8 in January, Little J - 6 in October, Bryleigh, Christian, Destiny - 3 in August, Ethan - 1 in December.

Hope it helps ya all (and me in keeping track of the story) :)


I must say "Thankies" to Jenn for askin about the kiddies ages - or I wouldn't have figured out this 'time-line' thingie - and I wouldn't have gotten the ideas I did as I was fixing this up :) MERCI BUCKETS, IZZY! :) :P

[Leslie]

Ok.. I'm finally caught up. Very good adds. :)

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 33 ~ House Hunting

A short 6 weeks after the birth of Ethan, both he and Rachel were cleared for making a trip to Arizona – by car so the Timmons family could begin the search for their new home. Rather than squishing all 6 children – four still in car seats – and the two adults into the car, the older five were left with loving grandparents.

"So, you got the name of a good real estate agent in the area, right?"

"Yes, Rae. And we're going to stop off and visit Jenn first – then get a little info on the area from her before we go to our hotel. We meet with the agent tomorrow – and she's already set up about 5 home tours for us because I told her we wanted to be able to get into a new house before the school year started."

"Thanks, Jeff. I can't believe it's been so long since I've seen – or even really talked to – Jenn other than for fan club stuff."

"You have both been busy. I'm just glad you'll have a better chance to see her once we move."

"Me too. So – how long is it going to take us to get there?"

"You're worse than the kids, you do realize that, don't you?"

"I hate being in the passenger seat – what do you want from me?"

"Patience would be a good thing. And to answer your question, you know it's almost an 8 hour drive there."

"Fine, I'm gonna try to get a nap in while you're driving – so no accidents while you're driving. Ethan should be good for about 3 hours – so find somewhere to stop in about that time frame – so we can all get out and stretch, ok?"

"As you wish, princess."

After 3 stops along the route, they FINALLY arrived in Winslow, Arizona – where Jenn was currently living. Stopping to say hi before heading to a nearby hotel for the night, Rachel wearily climbed from the car.

"Rae! I'm so glad you made it!"

"Hey, Jenn. It's great seeing you again."

"Same here – so this is my newest little nephew," she said, as Jeff pulled him out of his car seat.

"Yes, that is little Ethan. And by the way – thank you from all of the kids for their Christmas presents – and from Alyssa for her birthday present. But you really didn't need to send them anything."

"But I wanted to," Jenn protested.

"I know – but a little something small is sufficient, silly. No need for big gifts from you – when I know that you have a big enough family to buy for without adding this adopted extension of family members to your shopping list."

"Too bad."

"Fine – but at least I said something – so now I have no reason to feel guilty when you spoil the kids rotten."

"Are you going to stay for supper?" Jenn asked.

"Actually, we really need to get to our hotel – and then talk to our real estate agent about where to meet tomorrow."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive. I just wanted to make sure that we stopped to say hello before heading over there," Jeff answered. "And you are still going to watch Ethan for us while we're house hunting tomorrow, right?"

"Of course. I would have watched all the kids for you though. You didn't need to leave the others home."

"Jenn, that was more of a space consideration – eight hours in the car – with 4 kids in full car seats – and two others who still need restraints doesn't work very well – and we didn't see the need to bring 2 cars with us for this trip."

"I guess I understand. So are you two definitely moving the family to this area?"

"Yeah. It's not a terrible distance for flying to get to L.A. when I need to for the group or whatever – or if artists want to come work with me at my home studio. And it puts Rae closer to someone who isn't part of my circle of friends and family first. And after we move – we'll probably see about getting you to baby-sit all of them every so often."

"Alright. What time are you going to be dropping this little guy off in the morning?"

"I'll call you after Jeff talks with our agent so we have a better idea of what time it will be, ok?"


To Be Continued....

[Baby_Girl89]

it better continue :P

[Raevengeance]

I'm working on it -

[a7xnsl98d]

<----------breaks out pillow and blanket until Rae continues the story.......

[Raevengeance]

lol Tasha

[a7xnsl98d]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Rachie~Rae @ 7/28/06, 03:57pm) 50168</div>
lol Tasha
[/b]

:P I could've caught up on some missing sleep by now! LOL :Love:

[Raevengeance]

"Sure, it's been great seeing you again, sissa."

"It's been great seeing you again, too, Jenners. See you tomorrow," Rachel said, as Jeff took Ethan back from Jenn and the trio made their way back to the car.


The next morning, Ethan was dropped off with Jenn while Jeff and Rachel prepared for their second house-hunting adventure together since they had met. "Rae, what do we do if we can't find a house that we like?"

"Well – we could always cancel the move, or design and have our dream home built. But the choice is yours Jeff – after all, it is money you've earned that is paying for all of this."

"Rae…"

"I know – I know – but it's the truth!" Rachel answered as they pulled up to the real estate office to meet with their agent (Sara) in Arizona.

After a day of searching – and finding no homes that were extremely close to what they wanted as far as layout and number of bedrooms or bathrooms or extra amenities. "So, what are your thoughts?" Sara asked.

"Honestly, Sara, while there were points in favor of each of the homes you showed us, none of them are exactly what we are searching for in a home," Jeff answered.

"It's not very easy finding a home with the number of bedrooms you want," Sara answered.

"We do understand that. And we know you did your best and showed us homes that each met some of our criteria, but we really want something that meets all our criteria," Rachel answered.

"Well – I'm sorry I couldn't be of more assistance to you in your search," Sara said, figuring she was going to be replaced as real estate agent for the Timmons family.

"Sara, Rae and I will get back to you later tonight or tomorrow. We may have found the land we want – while seeing all the houses you showed us today. Even if we need to build a new home, you will probably still get a sale," Jeff said, trying to reassure her. "We just need to figure out which place has the room for us to build – and a usable home until the new house is finished."

"Are you sure? I can do some more searching and show you some more tomorrow if you want."

"I think we saw the right place today. You've already put a lot of work into finding these homes, don't put more work into it – unless we end up not getting the place we try to buy," Jeff said, knowing there were at least 2 places that – location wise at least – Rachel had loved.

[Baby_Girl89]

*taps foot* i'm waiting for more now sissa :P

[Raevengeance]

and I'm waiting for your next add - do you have a point? ;)

[OhioluvsNick]

:)

[Raevengeance]

I'll TRY to get more added tonight - or tomorrow during the day - cuz I'll be gone Friday night/Saturday & Sunday AM. - No Guarantees though ;)

[Baby_Girl89]

no guarantees indeed. when's my next add coming? :P

[Raevengeance]

When I get my inspiration back - DORK! Didn't I tell you this last night? ;)

[a7xnsl98d]

:Whistle:

[Raevengeance]

**Back at the hotel**
"So, Rae, what do you think?"

"Well…honestly…none of the homes felt like 'home' to me, BUT as far as where I'd like to build a home – I think you realize it's the one with the most land – right near the mountains with the small lake area on the property."

"I thought so – but is there a home we can build there – that is going to work for us?"

"Come on, Jeff – we can have an architect design a house that is gonna work for us – but there are a couple different home plans we've looked at online that I think would probably work for us."

"Which plans?" Jeff asked, knowing there were several that they had both liked as they thought about what they wanted in a new home.

"There was the 2-story more 'traditional' home – with the master bedroom on the main floor and 6 bedrooms upstairs, or the more 'modern-ish' home that had 3 bedrooms upstairs, the master and 2 more on the main floor, and 2 in what I consider the basement along with a home theater and game room."

"And which one did you like better?"

"Well – honestly – the 2 story – but we're going to need to have the floor plans modified because we need a nursery for Ethan, at least for a couple of years."

"Well then – that's the floor plan we'll talk to a contractor about building – with the changes we want for it – to see what it will cost to have it built – and to get an idea of when it will be finished."

"OK – so how are we going to find a reputable contractor?"

"We can talk to Sara about it – and the Better Business Bureau for the area to find someone who comes with excellent references."

"So – we've decided?"

"I guess we have. Now, let's get ready – since we're supposed to go out for dinner with Jenn & John before picking Ethan up."

"I am ready."

"Alright – if you say so," Jeff replied as the pair made their way out for dinner.




**author's Note**
Here are the floor plans that Jeff/Rae are going to have modified & built

[attachmentid=1151]
Exterior photo

[attachmentid=1149]
First Floor - want to add nursery near the master bedroom - and make the masterbedroom 'wider'

[attachmentid=1150]
2nd Floor

[yepperoo]

I'm confused what is all of this?

[Raevengeance]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Jane @ 9/17/06, 07:42pm) 58260</div>
I'm confused what is all of this?
[/b]

What do you mean what is all of this? It's FAN FICTION - aka - a work of LITERATURE featuring Real People - written by a FAN of the celeb involved.

[Baby_Girl89]

lol sissa no need to be so snippy. now i want MORE :P

[Raevengeance]

you don't get anymore - until I get more of NR :P But I just found a better house :P It's a freaking castle ;) (literally)

[Baby_Girl89]

lol is it dark and drafty like a real castle?

and i already told you i don't have more but i bet you do.

[Leslie]

I wanna see the castle. :)
I'll catch up on my reading tomorrow and comment.

[Baby_Girl89]

so where's my next add sissa?

[Raevengeance]

off in never-neverland

[Raevengeance]

Chapter 34 ~

The next day, Jeff took Rae to the real estate office to write up the offer on the home that they wanted to purchase – hoping that someone would be able to give them a lead as far as a reputable contractor and architect who could build their dream home.

"I will get back to you on this offer as soon as I hear back from the seller. And – as for the contractor, I would suggest going down to the builder's association, they'll have a better knowledge of the contractors in the area," Sara suggested.

"Thank you. We'll do that. Do you have any idea how long it may take to hear back on our bid?"

"I'll contact their agent with the offer – and then their agent will contact the seller and then they usually have 2 days to accept or counter the offer you've put on the table."

"That's what I was thinking – but wanted to make sure that was the standard here too. You have my cell number, call us on that when you hear back from the sellers – we're going to go find a contractor to build our new house."

"Jeff, are you sure we want to find someone to build a house when we don't even know if we're going to get that place?"

"Rae – think about this – our offer was their asking price – and the place has been on the market for a couple of months already. They'll take the offer – heck they probably would have accepted something about five or six thousand under the list price – but I wanted to make sure I didn't go under what they asked, because the land alone is worth what they were asking."

"Are you sure about that? Jeff – I mean – wouldn't they have been asking for more if the land itself was worth that much?"

"Trust me – I had someone else come out to look at that place to give me an estimate on the value of it – so if we chose to buy it we wouldn't be overpaying for it."

"Why that house?"

"From the pictures we got from Sara in email, I knew it was the closest to what we were looking for in a home here – and that it had the best potential for building what we really wanted while giving us somewhere to stay until that house was built."

"Oh…I guess that makes sense…but shouldn't we have made an offer that was closer to the real value of what we're getting?"

"Think about this, ok? They are only asking for this amount – so we aren't trying to get it for less than what they wanted for it, and we're going to have quite a few added expenses as we build the new house there…so, it would be really stupid for us to offer them something way over their asking price. If we do that, it may make them rethink the idea of selling it – and then we'd lose out on the house. And, on top of that, in the offer, I've added that WE are going to pay the full commission to both real estate agents – at a rate of 7 per cent of the sale price split 50-50 between them. So, we're also letting the seller keep the full amount they are being paid for the property – and paying that extra amount to the agents."

"If you're sure it's fair to them…"

"Rae – what do you want me to do? We've got the offer in on the house – if they reject it for some reason – we'll figure out what to do from there, alright?"

"Yeah – I guess we can't control the fact that they are asking for less than what the property is worth, right?"

"Exactly."

[Baby_Girl89]

i hope there isn't some hidden reason they're trying to get rid of it, like that it's on an indian burial ground or something lmao.

now i want MORE!!!! sissa.

[Raevengeance]

The next day, Sara called with the good news that the seller had accepted the offer that Jeff and Rachel had made on the home – including closing the sale within a week – which wasn't much of an issue since they had already moved out of the home – one of the reasons the asking price had been so low – they hadn't been able to sell it at a higher price previously, but because of a required job relocation, they had to move and were motivated to get the house in Arizona off their hands.

"Wow – now we just need to get the contractor hired to build our new home."

"And tell your family we're moving from California," Rachel added, knowing that even during the earlier discussions about the possibility of moving, neither Alyssa nor little J had believed it would truly happen.

"That won't be hard."

"Right – you know that Alyssa and J didn't think we'd actually find a place to buy."

"We're moving – they don't have much of a choice in the matter."

"Remember, you're the one who needs to tell them that."

"I know. So, tomorrow we get a contractor and architect to revise the plans for the house. Hopefully the plans can be finished by this weekend when we close on the house – and the building can start next week."

"You think they could start building before we even move out here?"

"Why not? We're closing on the house on Friday – so we can technically move into the house that is there on Saturday if we wanted to."

"I just…I figured that we'd wait until after we moved out here to start building the new house."

"Honestly, I am hoping that the house can be done by the time we move the family here, Rae. I mean – it would be a pain to move everything into the house there right now only to have to pack it up again to move into the house we are having built when it's finished."

"I guess you have a point there – but are they going to be able to get everything done in the matter of a couple months?"

"Rae – if the motivation is there – they can finish a complete house in a week. We aren't pushing them the way they do on Extreme Home Makeover – but I figure that with the incentives I'm going to use with the contractor – it should be finished in two months time."

"Wow…so are we going to make decisions long distance for design elements when they need to be made?"

"Actually – I was thinking that you may want to move out here before the rest of us do – to make those decisions as they arise. And it will give you a well-deserved vacation from the kids – and you had your hands full with all of them while I was on tour. Now, I can take care of them while you have some time alone."

"Jeff, that isn't right. And I'd feel lost without you or the kids around for a month or two."

"We can talk about it more when the need arises," Jeff said, knowing that even if it was only for a week or two, Rae needed some 'alone' time whether she was willing to admit it or not.

"Yeah – and we could easily make a family trip out of it when the need for our input came up."

"Exactly," Jeff said, knowing that it was better to just agree than to cause a huge argument.

[Baby_Girl89]

jeff is such a dork. lol.

i want more sissa.

[Raevengeance]

jeff is such a dork. (See 1) lol.

i want more sissa. (see 2)

1) well duh :p

2) when don't you?