ArynMae20

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

After the events of the past two days/nights, James had a lot on his mind. His life had already thrown the unexpected at him…or so he thought. It’s funny how fast life can change in what seems as a blink of an eye. James was naturally easy to adapt to change, but, doesn't mean the shock is any less intense.

After leaving the hospital, he drove home to relive the babysitter. The traffic was surprisingly not bad for it being early morning, it was a nice day. 40 minutes later, he was parked in his front driveway. Taking the keys out of the ignition, he got out of the car and walked up the path and into the house.

“Dadddddy!” Kaylee grinned, climbing down from the stool she’d been sitting on and running over to him, wrapping her tiny arms around his waist. James smiled and picked the petite girl up into his arms. “Hey baby! Were you good for Jake?” Kaylee nodded her head. “Yes, I was. Where did you have to go?”The little girl asked, curiosity in her eyes. James looked at her, and sighed. “Just a friend.” Kaylee nodded. “I want to watch Spongebob!” She announced, quickly changing the subject, and then running off to the big movie room.

James pulled 30 bucks from his wallet and had it to Jake. “Thanks for keeping an eye on her.” He smiled, Jake nodded and then left. Walking into the moving room, he sat down next to kaylee and smiled as she cuddled into him. He sighed happily, and within 30 minutes they were both out.

An hour later James awoke, seeing Kaylee still asleep in his arms, he shifted her onto the cushion and slipped out of the room, walking into the entryway he dug for his phone and pulled it out of his pocket. Missed call. Crap. It was Amelia. Double Crap. Listening to the voice mail, he deleted it and immediately called her back.

Waiting for a couple rings, a tired voice answered on the other end. James sighed, “Amelia, I know what you must be thinking..but I didn't ignore you this time, I just forgot my phone in my pocket. I feel asleep watching TV with Kaylee. I promise, I didn't mean to ignore you. “ He stated quickly, before she could say anything. “As for your message..I guess I've never taken care of you two before, so, yeah, I guess, just come here and we’ll figure it out.” He nodded, looking at the wall.

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

Still here :3

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

Maybe she can call and ask. Guys are clueless :3

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

James knew that Lily’s condition was going to be bad, and finding out that she had bad asthma, made it all the more horrible. It was a helpless feeling, he wanted Lily and Amelia, to be okay again. He couldn't right at this moment though, he just had to wait it out and hope that she improved.
Seeing how much Amelia was hurting, he placed a hand on her back. “She’s going to wake up. She’s a tough girl, just like her Mama.” He said softly, with supporting eyes shifting on her. They sat there waiting for what seemed like forever, just letting their minds be absorbed in this traumatic moment.

Starring out the window, his mind began to wander. He couldn't have help but thought how different his life could have been if he would have answered even one of her many calls. Maybe they might have been married by now, and maybe even had more kids. The thoughts were endless, even though he wishes he could go back and fix all the mistakes that he made, he’d never, ever, regret his children. Neither of them.

The sound of crunching on the bed snapped him out of it, his eyes returned to Amelia and then looked at Lily who was starting to awake. James watched the two; he could tell by the way Amelia handled her, that this certainly wasn't her first attack. All the more reason he needed to be around for them now.

Smiling at the sweet site of mother and child, their obvious bond, he nodded and grinned. “There’s nowhere else I’d rather be. You get better, little Lily.” He said, and then grabbed his things. “And Amelia, call me if you need anything at all, really, I mean it. Just say the word and I’m there.” He said, taking a sigh of relief. “I’ll see you soon, promise!” He said lastly, and then walked out of the room and down the hall.

Leaving the hospital, he walked out toward his car and got in, starting it up, putting it in drive and then driving away from the hospital. Things were such a blurr this morning, and he just wanted to get home. He planned to meet with a friend of his who owned a luxury apartment complex, to see if they’d cut a deal for Amelia. She’s already done so much, it was James turn to step up and help, and that was exactly what he intended to do.

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

5:00 pm :) But i didn't go in today :P

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

As the bright morning sun shinned through his bedroom windows like laser beams, he awoke and sat up in bed, looking at the clock. It read 6:14 am. He’d only been asleep for about 5 hours after it all, but it was restful sleep. Swinging his legs over his bed, his bare feet hit the cool wooden floor boards. With a semi-tired groan he stood up and walked out of the room.

Walking down the hall, he peeked in at Kaylee, who was still asleep. It was the weekend now, so he didn't see a reason to wake her up. Closing the door quietly, he peered down the stairs and made his way into the kitchen. Opening the door to the large pantry, he grabbed the box of frosted flakes and brought them over to the counter. Grabbing a bowl and spoon, he poured some cereal into the bowl. Putting the box back in the pantry he walked over to the fridge and grabbed the milk, pouring some into the bowl and then putting it back. Grabbing his bowl, he walked over to the table and sat down, turning on the smaller TV he had mounded on one of the walls.

Taking a few bites, he started flipping through the channels he found nothing interesting. Kaylee wasn’t awake yet to steal the TV for cartoons, so he flipped on the news channel. The volume was way down, chewing he looked at the screen, this broadcast featured a house fire, in the town over from his. A closer look revealed it was the name of Amelia’s town. An even closer look revealed it was her house.

Panic and fear washed over him, turning the broadcast up just in time he watched on, his eyes wide. “It is still unknown if the two residing in the house are going to make a full recovery. They were taken to Anton Memorial.” Running through the house and out the front door, in his pajamas still, he ran across the street to the nearest neighbor and begged them to go sit in his house while Kaylee was still asleep. A younger guy (whom he knew) agreed and went over to keep an eye with him.

After putting on some other pants and giving the guy the rundown on what was happening, when Kaylee would probably be awake and what to do with her once she did. Grabbing his keys, he thanked him and ran outside to his car, getting in and zooming off to the hospital.

Amelia might be pissed at him, considering their day yesterday and how he promised to take things slow, he couldn't just let them set there alone though, and especially if either (or both) of them were in critical condition. Frantic, he speeded all the way to the hospital, parking in the front and then running inside.

Running up to the reception lady, he spoke. “Is Amelia Carter here? She came in with a little girl? They were in the housefire. Ringing any bells?” He asked, raising his eyebrow in annoyance. “ I need to know now.” He said, his tone low. Finally, he got the room number and ran over to the elevator and then finally arrived on the floor where they were.

Pushing open the glass doors labeled “Burn unit” He shifted his eyes looking around, and then sighing, he saw the room. The door was open, he could see in. It was heartbreaking, as if someone punched him clear in the stomach with a machete. No, he didn't know her two weeks ago, or even for more than two days, but, that was still his child and he’d be crushed if anything happened to her. And Amelia..She’s already been through so much and been so brave, this was sure [i]not[i] what she needed. Swallowing hard he walked over and through the curtain. “I got here as soon as I could, It’s all over the news..”She didn't look up, he walked over and sat down next to her. He didn’t know what to say, or if she wanted him to say anything, so he sat there in the silence.

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

My was she ever closed up, and not just about him, but everything and everybody. That’s the kind of action that turns a person’s soul sour. Until somebody is brave enough to try and crack it open. He could see through her tough exterior, trying to act as if nothing was wrong. Living with the thought of “If I don’t think about or talk about it, it’s not real, and it’ll go away.” That’s not true, just isolates you more. Sighing, he looked at her. “I might not know you like I use to, but don’t kid yourself Amelia. I know that deep down inside at your core, you’re still the same.” He stated, his tone plastered with honesty.

Listening as she spoke on the phone and then informed him that Lily was sick and coming home, he nodded and checked his phone, just in case. No calls. That was good. Soon enough, there was a knock at the door, and Amelia went to go meet her, and then held the girl in her arms. She looked miserable. Poor thing.
The girl barely knew him, let alone that he was her father. To her he was just her mother’s friend. He figured now wasn’t the best time for them, and considering Lily probably just wanted her mom, as most kids do when they’re sick. He’d probably just head home.

Climbing up the stairs, he peeked in each of the rooms until he finally figured out which one was Lily’s. Peeking his head into the room he starred at the site and smiled. “Hey, I’m going to head out now, just wanted to let you know before I did.” He said, his tone soft and quiet. “I hope you feel better, Lily.” He said and then peeked his head back out and walked down the hallway, down the stairs and out to his car.

Sitting in the driver’s side, he pulled out his cell phone and dialed Jess. She picked up after the 2nd ring, “Hey Jess, It’s James, Just wanted to let you know I’m heading back home now, I’ll be over to get Kaylee very soon.” The woman happily assured him she’d be ready. Hanging up the phone, he drove the 15 minutes to Katie’s and Smiled as Kaylee ran out of the house and got into the backseat. “Did you have fun?” He grinned, looking through the mirror as they pulled up to their house. Kaylee smiled happily. “Yes, I did! I ate there too, so it’s okay.” She stated, grabbing her backpack and stepping out of the car.

The two trailed into the house and then took off their shoes. Kaylee threw her backpack in the entryway’s storage area. James looked at her, “Okay missy, go get ready for bed. I’ll be there in a minute.” He said sternly, watching the girl dart up the stairs and into her large bedroom. After changing into her pajamas, and brushing her teeth she climbed into her bed and pulled the covers over her body.

James finally came in and sat next to her, softly stroking her cheek. “I love you little lady.” He grinned, leaning over and kissing her head. Kaylee smiled contently. “I love you too,daddy.” She said and then curled up and fell asleep. James sighed and stood up, shutting the light off and then the closing the door.
Walking down to his bedroom, he flipped the light on and changed into some more comfortable clothes. Since the whole thing with Amelia, he never had time to change out of his work clothes. After getting clean and comfortable, he crawled into bed and laid down, starring out the large window into the darkness. What a day it had been. Letting the exhaustion take over, he fell into a deep, deep sleep.

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

He wasn't sure if she was going to budge, she had ever reason not to, and nowadays, she didn't seem the type to dish out second chances. He waited in the silence as she probably had tons of thoughts running through her mind. When she finally looked back up at him, he was relieved to see her face change. Nodding in agreement, he spoke. “Yes, absolutely. I won’t I promise.” He said quickly as she trailed on, he listened intensely and then agreed some more. He couldn't help but start to laugh when she mentioned a step-mom.

Catching his breath, he stared at her. “Nah, the only thing she’ll eventually have is a sister. No other mom. I’m not married, or seeing anybody. I’m a single father. I’m raising her on my own. Her mom was Jenna. She ignored her responsibilities as a mother, and cheated on me.” Holding up a hand, he waved it in her direction sarcastically, “Please contain your sympathy.” He bellowed, “Karma’s a bitch and I got exactly what I deserved. She did to me, what I did to you, and now we’re just trying to survive life and not fuck anything else up in the process.” He shrugged.

“We could be sad and bitter, and pissed about the past. Or we could just forget all that, have some peace and make room for such better memories. The future you can change, The past you can’t. You can only accept it, apologize for it, and move on to better days. Make the people you love most proud.” He laughed to himself. “Okay, I’m done sounding like a fortune cookie now, but, you get what I mean.”

“Why are you so nervous? Anger and frustration I get. But, why nervous? I've been trying to answer it myself in my head. The only thing that I can think of is, you think I’m going to just take advantage of the two of you, come in, play pretend, take your baby away from you, and then run away again, leaving you a broken mess all over again.” He sighed, looking her straight in the eyes. “In case that is what you’re thinking, I’m not planning to do that. We can go into this slowly, and I don’t expect it to happen overnight, If Jenna ever showed up looking for Kaylee, I’d probably do the same thing to her, and treat her the same way. So, I’m not going to do anything horrible. You have my word.”

Where there is a Flame, Someone's Bound to Get Burned(Heart and Mae)

James narrowed his eyebrows as he listened to her scream at him. It sounded like she’d been waiting all these years to tell him that. “Amelia,” He tried to say, but it just set her off further. Waiting for her to calm down a bit, he sighed. Then finally, she agreed to talk to him.
He was thinking she’d have made him wait a day or two, so he was surprised when she made him follow her inside and said they’d talk as soon as Lily was gone. Sitting down on the couch, he sat back and nodded at her as she sternly told him not to talk to lily and to basically stay there. He was serious which one of them was her child. He deserved to be treated the way she was though. He could accept that.

Sitting there waiting for the small girl to leave, he couldn't help but think of how much Amelia had changed. She seemed so ridged. So untrusting of others. So Hardened. Numb to any and all feelings, completely suppressing them for the sake of her daughter. To think…None of this would have happened if it hadn't been for him.
It was a moment he’d thought about more times than one would think, him finally meeting with Amelia, ready to right his wrong, but how was he to explain? Where would he even start? Her question was incredibly fair. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and started.

“Amelia..There is so much I wish I could tell you about that time, why I did it, and what in the hell I was thinking, but, the truth is, there is no easy answer. Nothing I say can erase those times from your mind, I hurt you in a way that nobody else could, and I didn't think of how it would make you feel, or how it would have impacted your life. I only thought about me, and the high I was on, and how I didn't want it to end. It was selfish and unforgivable what I did. I wish it never would have happened, believe me, I do, more than anything in this world. “ He sighed heavily. “You’re right I don’t deserve to know Lily, and I don’t deserve to be in her life after everything I did to you, but, It’s not like I don’t know how fragile children are, I’m not someone with no experience, I’m someone with experience. More importantly, with a daughter.” He shook his head, staring into her eyes. “I’m sorry. I don’t know what to say or do to make you believe me, but I truly am. I want to make things right between us. I want a second chance. I promise, I won’t hurt her. I won’t.” He said his tone stronger. “Would you at least let me try? Please, Amelia. I know I don’t deserve it, but please just give me a shot. I know you think people like me don’t change, I can assure you that they can, if they really want to they can.” He moved a little closer. “And I do.”