Caught in the Net Read online

  “Uh oh.”

  “That was an understatement. I felt helpless. I couldn’t do anything to protect her, but also knew she didn’t deserve protecting. I knew how Scott handled her and understood his reasons, but I still wanted to make things better. So I kissed her. I was 20.”

  “And Scott didn’t know?”

  “Nope. We told him we started dating when she turned 18. However, we lied. I don’t regret what I did, but I felt bad that I had to hide it from him. He’d done so much for me and I owed him the truth. But I knew it would hurt our friendship. Especially when she and I got sexually involved. She was 17 the first time. And she left me powerless. I couldn’t say no to her.”

  “He never suspected?”

  “Not that I know of. He never said anything and Scott does not exactly have the reputation of keeping his opinion to himself. It’s eaten at me all these years. That’s probably why I let him make so many decisions. I don’t want you to ever feel you have to lie to us, baby. We may not agree with your choices, but we will never remove you from our lives. We want you to trust us to love you.”

  “Don’t you trust Scott to love you, despite this?”

  “Yes. I know I need to come clean with him. I need to be an example for you. Just remember, you only met Rich a few weeks ago. I like the boy a lot and think he’s a good match, but try to give it time. Have you been honest with him about your infertility?”

  “Yes, sir. Michael told me I needed to do that right away in case he had family goals. He doesn’t.”

  “Shame… You two would have had such beautiful, smart kids. But he doesn’t deserve to be terrorized.”

  “Mike will have a whole horde for you to play with one day. I’d rather get a puppy.”

  “I don’t think I’ve ever told you this, but the day your mom left us, she told Scott to make sure I was taken care of and that it would take both of us to watch over her baby. She knew you would be a challenge.”

  “Is that why Scott stayed with us?”

  “Her final request. He moved into the house that day and sold his. He’s been a thorn in my side ever since.” The man smiled, “And I wouldn’t know what to do without him. He’s been the best in helping raise all of us, kiddo. You need to let him know what’s going on too.”

  “I don’t want him to be angry with Rich.”

  “He values your happiness above his own, honey. Don’t worry. We’ll tell him together. Tonight. After he’s had a couple of beers.”

  “Chicken.”

  “Self-preservation,” her father said somberly, as he hugged. “Okay, so no more sneaking around with lab stuff?“

  “No sir, I’ll be good there.”

  “Excellent. Run along now and get back to work. We’ll talk with Scott after dinner. Let’s see if we can get Mike out of the house, he doesn’t need to be part of this.”

  “I think he does. He has a right to know the truth.”

  “Very well. I’ll see you at closing.”

  That evening, the family sat around the dining room table for a family meeting. Dr. Quimby prefaced it with an apology to Scott and then shared his secret. Scott was quiet.

  “Did you think I didn’t guess something was going on? All of a sudden, you wanted to be home and weren’t being bothered by the pest. And believe me, kids, Ally-Anne was a HUGE pest. Now, add the fact she never went on any dates or tried to slip out of the house to see a boy. She didn’t have to, he was right there.”

  “I’m so sorry I lied, Scott. Please forgive me.”

  “Forgive you? For making my baby sister the happiest woman on the planet? For giving me two gorgeous kids to play with? For making my life have some purpose other than self-serving gratification? No, I’m sorry that you felt you had to hide this from me all these years to protect my feelings. You know me better than that.”

  “We good?” Dr. Quimby hugged his friend warmly.

  “Always.”

  “Okay, my turn,” Michael sighed. He told his father about his affair with the Russian teacher, and that he, too, had not trusted him to be supportive. He apologized sincerely, looking down.

  “I guess these things come around. I knew all about it, son. Do you think Scott would have kept that from me? I just didn’t want you to get hurt.”

  “I’m sorry, Dad. I should have come to you.”

  “But you went to Scott. That perfectly fine. I don’t get jealous if one of you needs to approach him. I’m just grateful that he’s always there for you,” he said, hugging his son tightly. Dr. Quimby looked at his daughter. “Well, little one? Now’s a good time.”

  “Uncle Scott, I’ve been swirling Rich,” she whispered.

  He looked confused. “What the hell are you talking about?”

  “She’s somehow learned the art of the ancient sirens, Scott. She’s become quite the seductress,” Dr. Quimby said softly. Scott’s jaw started to twitch. “She hasn't done anything yet, so calm down. She came to me with questions about her feelings and needing some advice. We talked and I think she’s doing well,” her father said calmly.

  “If that boy touches you, so help me…”

  “If he touches me, it’s because I allowed it. He’s been beyond perfect, despite what I do to him. He showed a lot of self-control when I threw myself at him like a common barmaid,” Sam said firmly, taking control. “I also spoke with Michael about it, in depth. I promised him that I will try to wait at least six months to see where things go.”

  “But you’re just a baby,” his voice pleaded.

  “I’m 18, Uncle Scott. You need to let me grow up eventually. Please.”

  The poor man looked like he was close to tears.

  “Scott, I trust Rich. I can’t tell you why, but I do. You know I would never allow my birthday present where she wasn’t safe, right?” Michael asked. “I think this is harder for me then it is for you two. I’ve never had to share her. But it doesn’t bother me with Rich. In fact, I feel comfortable letting her out of my sight if she’s with him. Something inside of me tells me she’s as safe with him as with us.”

  “I know how you feel, my boy,” Scott finally sighed. “I don’t think I could have trusted anyone but your dad with Ally. Let’s blow this popsicle stand and go get some ice cream.”

  Michael and Sam looked at each other and started laughing. There had been no evidence left from the ice cream binge the night before. The two kept giggling over their sundaes.

  Scott frowned. “Okay, what are you two up to? This is supposed to be a night of clearing the air and you have another secret.”

  “Nothing significant, Scott. Trust me. It’s a twin thing,” Michael answered, touching his knuckles to his sister’s.

  “I see. And what about the little research episode? Were you planning on sharing about that tonight as well?” he asked casually. Michael bit his lip, shaking his head. His sister nodded.

  “Yes, sir. I already spoke with Daddy about it,” she said quietly.

  “And am I to assume that your brother took care of your disobedience?”

  “Yes, sir. Last night.” She flushed.

  “Yet, you seem to be sitting comfortably. I would think something like that would have warranted a few days discomfort.”

  “Yes, sir,” she whispered.

  “Scott, I did what I felt I needed to. It was my responsibility and that’s final. There is nothing more to discuss regarding this, okay?” Michael spoke up, staring straight into his uncle’s eyes.

  Scott leaned forward. “Was your methodology influenced by anyone or anything, Mr. Responsible?”

  “Rich did approach me, if that is what you are asking. However, he pointed out some things that I needed to consider and he was correct. Much in the way you and Dad discuss stuff about us. You either trust me to be fair or you don’t, but I would sincerely appreciate it if you didn’t second guess me when it comes to this,” Michael answered firmly.

  Dr. Quimby hid a smile, he was so proud of the man his son had become. Truly, his boy had turned
out to be like him. And his daughter like their mother. He suddenly started laughing.

  “What are you laughing about, Joe? YOUR son is mouthing off at me.”

  “OUR son is standing up to you. Just like I did when I was around his age, maybe a bit younger. Pissed you off then, too. I believe it was about a similar issue, as well.”

  “Oh, I remember the issue quite well. Miss Allyson thought she was old enough to take my car on a joyride and got a ticket. Oh yes, you and I had it out when I got home, if I recall.”

  “What happened?” Sam asked.

  Dr. Quimby grinned. “Mom came home in tears, once again terrified about what Scott was going to do when he found out. You tormented that girl, Scott.”

  “With good reason. She was always into something, like someone else I know.” He eyed his niece.

  “Anyway, I was home studying and she handed me the ticket, bawling her little head off. Even worse, the cop confiscated the car because she was driving without a license and had just turned 15. You were in Quantico for two weeks and left me in charge. I was so pissed at her. I gave her the choice of either telling Scott or having me deal with her.”

  “You didn’t!” Michael grinned.

  His father nodded. “I sure as hell did. Believe me, I had no qualms either. Like I said, I was pissed. Well, Ally-Anne thought that she’d get off easy with me and started to walk away with a smile. Nope, it was the first time she got to experience my displeasure. Talk about screaming. She didn’t speak to me for two days, she was so mad. I also grounded her until Scott came home. He thought I was too lenient because she was able to sit the next day and was determined to make her remember the lesson when he returned.”

  “I can’t believe you spanked Mama!” his daughter exclaimed.

  Her father shrugged. “It was either that or let her walk all over me. No thank you. But when Scott got home, I got in his face and informed him that everything had been taken care of and that we would not have a repeat. We ended up having a very loud shouting match, which ended when your mom came downstairs crying hysterically because she felt our fight was all her fault and she didn’t want to lose either of us. Scott finally got some sense in his thick skull and just extended her restriction for the rest of the month. She didn’t argue.”

  “Probably the only time,” Scott grumbled.

  “I think you’re right.” Dr. Quimby laughed. “So you see, you two, Scott and I know how this whole dynamic runs and what you feel. Even when he’s being stubborn.”

  “Am not.”

  “And grumpy.”

  “Bite me,” Scott grumbled.

  “Have you ever noticed his need to have the last word? Listening to him argue with your mother was always entertaining because she was the same way. She’d make sure she’d mutter something outside of his hearing so she could win.”

  “Yeah, and how many times did I also manage to hear her smart ass comments?”

  “I rest my case.”

  “Bite me,” Scott repeated. Michael elbowed his sister and winked. Their father had managed to get Scott off Michael’s back and completely change the subject.

  * * * * *

  “Sammi? Are you ready?” Michael asked Friday afternoon as they were closing. They were going to meet Rich and pick up Jen at UCSD, which was close to their house. She emerged from her dressing room in a filmy sundress and her long, thick red hair hanging loosely down her back.

  “Yep. Are you wearing that to meet her?” she asked, eyeing him.

  “Yes, what’s wrong with it?” Michael asked, tucking his pacific blue shirt into his black slacks.

  “Nothing. It is a great color for your eyes and you look hot. That shirt’s a bit snug on your shoulders. It makes you look huge.”

  “I am huge. See?” He flexed his biceps.

  She poked it. “Only about the size of a tangerine,” she teased.

  “Grapefruit, you mean.”

  “We were talking about your biceps, not your brain size. OW! Put me down! I’m in a dress!” she yelled as he smacked her before hefting her over his shoulder. He held his arm across her upper thighs, trapping her skirt under it. The crew started laughing and wished them a good weekend.

  She threatened and complained all the way to the hopper where she was unceremoniously dumped as Michael jumped in. They rode across the bay to headquarters to pick up Rich. Michael helped his sister out of the boat and hooked her hand in the crook of his elbow as he escorted her to engineering.

  “Wow, you look stunning, Miss Samantha,” Rich said, shaking Michael’s hand and kissing the girl on the cheek. He was dressed in a dark green collared shirt and black slacks as well, his emerald eyes radiating from the bronze tanned face. He didn’t catch the glimpse she gave the crew as she grabbed his head, rose on her tiptoes, and planted a long, hot and sultry kiss full on his lips. He folded his arms around her and gently broke it off, blushing as the crew cheered.

  “Public display of affection is not appropriate, young lady,” he whispered in her ear, making her shiver. She couldn’t believe how the feel of his breath on her neck and the sound of his voice in her ear made her weak in the knees.

  “Really? And what do you intend to do about it?” she whispered back, nipping his earlobe.

  Rich chuckled, taking her hand. “I guess it’s no secret now, guys. We’re kind of dating.”

  “Kind of?” the girl asked when the men started clapping.

  “We’re hoping Rich will keep her out of your hair for a while. Wish the poor man luck,” Michael told his crew. After saying their goodbyes, the three left to pick up Jen.

  The pretty girl was waiting outside her dorm when Michael drove up. Her eyes widened as she saw his car and she reddened as she saw him. Sam made the introductions and watched her brother carefully. Yeah, this was a good set up. The four went to a little coffee shop off campus to talk and get to know each other. Jen was easygoing and intelligent, soft spoken with a good sense of humor. Sam liked her. More so, Michael did too.

  The girls excused themselves to the bathroom where Jen grabbed Sam’s hand. “He’s so sweet! Do you think he likes me?”

  “No doubt. I know him better than I do myself. Told you he’s a cutey.”

  “He is beyond cute. Those eyes! And he’s cut.” She turned to look at her backside in the mirror. “My ass is huge. I better start working out and lose some weight, huh?”

  “Why? You’re beautiful. He prefers a girl with a little meat, especially the backend. Just be yourself and don’t try to change for anyone. He’s super honest, so you aren’t going to get any deception from him.”

  “He’s a little intimidating. Not towards me, but his carriage. So is Rich. But they are both so nice.”

  “They are dominant men, that’s all. They are just like my dad and uncle, and just as wonderful. Try to relax. Michael is my best friend. I would tell you if he was vibing something strange, I promise.“

  “I’m glad you guys came. I hate blind dates. Even when they are drop dead gorgeous,” Jen giggled, brushing her long hair out.

  “We’ll do our best to make you comfortable, okay? Take your time and if you want us along, just let Michael know. He doesn’t mind. Rich is like his best friend now, next to me.”

  “Okay. I’ll see what he says. Let’s go back, I can’t get enough of those eyes.”

  Rich watched the girls leave, and then leaned forward to his friend. “Well? What do you think?”

  “She is adorable! I love her face and she seems so sweet. Did you see that ass?” Michael grinned.

  “I wasn’t looking at her ass. I am dating your sister, remember? But she is a looker. And well versed.”

  “I want to go slow with this one and see how she fits with the family. Kind of like what we did with you. You know how important that is to us.”

  “She might feel a little intimidated. Having Sammi around might help her be more comfortable.”

  “Intimidated? Why?”

  “Mike, I’m 6’4” and 215 poun
ds. Your family intimidated me at first! You’re pulling my leg, aren’t you?”

  “Yeah.” Michael punched his arm. “They can be a little overwhelming. You and I have that going for us, too. I love watching my sister shrink when you give her the look.”

  “I didn’t think you noticed,” Rich chuckled.

  “Trust me, there is very little I miss. Ah, the ladies return,” he said, standing with Rich as the girls came back to the table. They held the chairs for them and then rejoined them.

  “I must admit,” Jen commented. “I don’t recall seeing this type of manners being displayed by anyone nowadays. It’s delightful.”

  “My father insists on etiquette. We’ve been raised with old-school values and practices. May I get you some more coffee?”

  “No thank you. I’m really enjoying myself tonight. Thanks so much for inviting me.”

  “The pleasure is all mine,” Michael said, taking her hand in his large one, and meeting her eyes. They reminded him of melted chocolate. “I’d like to do this again very soon.”

  “That would be wonderful. Do you mind if we double again? I’m kind of shy and your sister really helps relax me. She said I should ask you,” Jen said, watching Rich take the other girl outside to the garden area to give the new couple a few minutes alone.

  “I love having Rich and Sam along. They keep me entertained,” he laughed sweetly. “Are you busy Sunday night?”

  “I have no plans other than studying. Finals are coming up.”

  “If you need help with anything, please ask. I’ll call you with details, okay?”

  “I would like that. Thanks.” She blushed slightly.

  He gently squeezed her hand. “Just be up front with me. I know you’re nervous. I’m not going to hurt you,” he reassured, his white teeth flashing.

  She looked down. “My insecurities. I’m a bit of a nerd and have never had a man of your, well, caliber be interested in me. I’m sorry if I’m too forward.”

  “If my opinion matters, I think you are absolutely beautiful, funny, smart and sexy. You’re quiet too - although I doubt that will last long being around my kid sister for any amount of time. I like what I am seeing and don’t want you to ever try to alter who you are to try to please me or anyone else, okay?”