Topic: A Trace of Change

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-01 00:00 EST
Trace Winter II ( yes..THAT Trace Winter, as he would tell you). His father was the original Trace Winter, owner of the largest international shipping and receiving company in sunny Southern California ( Winter Holdings ). Trace was destined to inherit the company. Sent to the finest prep school, arrangements made to attend the same fine Ivy League school his father had attended. From childhood he had been groomed, the son of the great Trace Winter. He would follow in his father's footsteps and become a very, very, wealthy businessman. It had all been arranged. That is, until the trouble.

It hadn't been his fault (His father's lawyers have warned him not to discuss what happened). At least he was reasonably sure it hadn't been his fault. Either way, it landed him and two close friends in jail ( The lawyer's have warned against giving the names ). His name and his picture were in all the newspapers ( that didn't last long, the lawyer's had threatened to sue ). It took some of his father's money to make it all go away, a great deal of money in fact. He was out of jail the next day, his friends were out six months later.

Funny though, it was his mother who had actually sent him here. There was always something different about his mother ( even the lawyers were afraid of her ). She read rather unusual books, dressed just a bit differently, and often disappeared for days at a time. She had "suggested" to his father that they send him here. His father hadn't argued.

She had a long talk with him, telling him what to expect. Telling him he would be on his own but he would have what he needed. She would see to it. She knew certain people where he would be going. He would be leaving that night, leaving for a place his mother called Rhy'din.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-01 15:46 EST
He rolled over, tangled in the sheets, and bounced his hand around the bed. He wasn't sure if he was relieved or disappointed when he discovered the rest of it empty. He had made the rounds last night, his first night here in Rhy'din. He had met several women, noticed several more, and was fairly certain that a few had noticed him as well. There seemed to be no small number of attractive women running around this town.

After confirming he was alone, he reached over and groped along the nightstand until he found his cell phone. No missed calls. That was good. Had he given out his number? He really couldn't recall. It was that last stop at the Inn that made him uncertain. A few too many drinks, a few too many attractive women, a bad combination for him. This new life would take some adjustment but he felt rather confident that he could make things work here.

Propping himself up on one elbow, he glanced around the bedroom. The room, the whole apartment itself, wasn't too bad and the beach was practically right outside his door. The rent was taken care of for the next few months and then he would begin looking for a new place. Something with a little more...well...something that was a little more him. Plenty of time to think about it.

Letting himself plop down into the pillow, he rested both hands behind his head, a smile playing across his face as he stared at the ceiling. "Yes, I think I'm going to like it here," he thought aloud.

Later he would have to get up, grab a quick shower, and head to the market district for a few things he needed. For now, he needed just a little more sleep.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-02 21:10 EST
Then there was Owen. Okay, maybe he had been a little less than honest with his parents. Maybe he did know that Owen was here. Maybe he did want to see her again. It was far easier to let his parents think it was their idea that he come here. It worked didn't it' Problem was, he had admitted it to Owen.

It really wasn't like him to give in so easily or so quickly, but it had always been like that where Owen was concerned. It was just so damn difficult to lie to her. She knew him better than anyone, she knew him all too well. Sure, he could get by with the occassional little white lie but that's where it stopped. She would give him that look and his best laid plans and stories flew out the window. Owen.

They had dated for quite a while back in California. It had actually gotten rather serious and he had purchased the ring. Before he had the chance to ask, she decided she needed to see the world. " I need to see what?s out there," she had told him. At first he played it off, acting as if he didn't care. After all, there was no place better than Southern California for beautiful women. If Owen wanted to leave, it was okay with him. Her loss. Then she asked him to go with her.

It was too late to backdown at that point. They fought like cats and dogs for days. Owen wondering why he wouldn't just come with her and him refusing for no apparent reason. Finally she just told him, "You know where I'll be if you want me," and she was gone.

Now he was really mad. Who did she think she was" Did she honestly think that Trace Winter was going to go chasing after her" She would come to her senses, he was sure of it. Soon enough, she would come back and apologize. All he needed to do was wait. So, he waited.

It had been over a year and no word from her. He should have moved on and he tried. There were a few others, even a close friend of Owen's. He knew that was a bad move but did it out of spite. Surely Owen would find out about it and come back. Nope.

Then the trouble. The trouble that played right into his hands. He had only been here a day when he found her. He found her and things were right again. For now.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-03 20:23 EST
"What in the hell am I doing?" He said to himself as he dabbed a cold rag to his still bleeding nose. He was furious. Furious that things weren't going the way he had planned, the way he had hoped. He should have known. The one time in his life he had swallowed his pride and tried to do the right thing. Maybe his motives were a bit selfish but the right thing none the less.

She had actually hit him. Right in the nose. He knew PJ could be a bitch but he didn't think she'd go that far. He was wrong, something which was starting to happen more that he liked. Owen should have told him, warned him. He couldn't blame it on Owen but right now he was angry and not thinking clearly. At any rate, things weren't working out so well.

He grabbed a quick shower and went to the bedroom to dress. The shirt from last night, now brightly decorated with his blood, was there on the bed. He tossed it in the trash. Now there was no choice. He'd have to make it to the market district for some new clothes. He'd only brought a few things with him on the trip and at the rate things were happening, he'd be out of clothes soon. "Bitch," he muttered under his breath as he thought back on the events of last night.

He slipped on a decent shirt and trousers and checked himself in the mirror. His nose was still a little red but it didn't look all that bad. With a shrug and a smile, he headed out to the market.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-08 17:31 EST
Owen was sleeping, he wasn't. He was leaning against the kitchen counter with a cold beer in his hand. Glancing at the clock, he noticed it was only 9:00 a.m. A little early to start drinking maybe, or maybe not.

Owen was sleeping, sleeping in his bed. She had come with a few things, telling him that she wanted to stay here. He had agreed almost immediately. Neither of them had taken the time to think this through. They were both impulsive and they both knew it. When they were together for long periods of time things always got a little tense. Now they were living together. Interesting.

Owen was sleeping, and he needed to wake her. With a shrug, he poured the beer down the sink drain and started down the hall. He heard her talking and guessed she was awake. "O?" he whispered as he walked into the bedroom. She was talking but she was still asleep. Seeing her there, tangled in the blankets, he knew why he had agreed to let her stay. She was mumbling something in her sleep, something that he couldn't understand. He just leaned there in the doorway for a moment and then headed for the shower.

Owen was sleeping.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-12 20:36 EST
Trace and his old friend walked the beach for quite a while. Though it was an unseasonably warm morning, there were only a few scattered people wandering the shoreline.

They talked of the past. They talked of the incident that eventually caused both of them to end up here. In the end they talked about the things they'd always talked about, women, drinking, parties and what the future held for them.

The timing of the conversation was perfect. As they spoke of future plans, they were walking past a large, grassy, empty lot that sat right at the edge of the beach. This was prime real estate. Back in Southern California it would have been a couple million, just for the land. Put a house on it and you would be looking at blowing six or sevn million. But this wasn't Southern California, this was Rhy'din.

With a nod of his head he stopped and turned to his friend, "Trickster old pal, I have some plans."

Trick Thorne

Date: 2009-11-12 20:58 EST
Trick nodded slowly as he listened. A slow smile dawned across his face as Trace explained the basics of the plan. "..and we'll build it big enough for the rest of the gang, or anyone else, that wants to hang out," Trace finished.

Trick nodded sagely, " I gotta hand it to you, the plan has merit." Trick turned and looked at the large empty lot. " So, a beach house right here. I can almost picture it. We'll make it lavish, inside and out. Swimming pool inside, beach access outside, perfect." Trick was almost giddy at the thoughts running through his mind. " Okay but how do we pay for it, and when can we make it happen?"

Trace tapped his chin for a moment then shrugged. "Money isn't an issue. I told you my parents want me to stay here. They'll come up with the money or make arrangements to buy the property. I figure we wait about a month or so to see if the price drops any." Trace then shook his head, "Might be a good idea to find out what it's gonna cost huh?" Trick laughed as they headed back up the beach toward the apartment, "Yeah, I guess it would."

Owen Rodes

Date: 2009-11-15 03:47 EST
"Trick Thorne!" Owen called out as she folded her arms over her chest. Her grin was devious at best. The man had always been like Trace's brother, so getting to know him was a must. Liking him was all the more important.

She motioned to herself and snickered," Where's my love?" She squinted at Trick and then winked," Can't a woman get a hug?" She cast a side glance to Trace," It's okay to make him jealous from time to time."

Owen wondered if Trick even knew she was there? Her eyes waited for a reaction. She hoped it was one to remember. It would also give her a feel of what her standing was with the love of her life's best friend.

Trick Thorne

Date: 2009-11-16 21:17 EST
Trick stopped with a quick look at Trace and then back at Owen. With a grin and an appreciative whistle, he trotted over to her and put his hands on her hips, picking her up of the ground. He set her back down and kissed her quickly and lightly on the lips. "Well well well, this is certainly a pleasant surprise," he smiled as he glanced around at Trace. "I had no idea you were here O. Seems like someone wanted to keep you a secret."

Trace frowned and shook his head. " I wasn't keeping it a secret Trick, I just hadn't had time to tell you she was here." Trick just smiled. He wasn't one to worry about the small stuff. "It's okay pal, I know she's here now." Trick playfully reached around Owen and pinched her butt. "I gotta tell ya O, you haven't lost a thing. Mmmm Mmmm Mmm, not a thing." He finished as he looked her over one more time before turning back to Trace.

"So Tracer, is O going to be part of our little arrangement?" Trick asked as he tilted his head in O's direction. Trace just groaned and then sighed."I don't know Trick, let's go grab a beer and find out. There's a little outdoor bar just down the beach that hasn't closed for the season. Let's go relax and discuss things." With that, Trick slipped his arm around Owen. "Did ya miss me baby?" he asked as the three headed for the bar.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-11-24 20:48 EST
The late fall afternoon was unseasonably warm and the three spent several hours just sitting at the beachfront bar laughing and catching up. It was good for all of them. They discussed the plans to build the beach house, all of them thinking it was a reasonable idea. After that discussion, Owen excused herself and left them.

Trace and Trick sat there for several more hours, well into the darkness. The bartender lit a few of the small tiki torches, just enough light for everyone to see what they were doing.

Trace realized just how glad he was that Trick had decided to look him up. There may have been some bad blood between the two, but it vanished in the hours spent at the bar. It was an unspoken agreement but they both knew they would never again speak of the problems of the past.

It was getting late now. Trace looked to the bartender, the bartender looked at his watch. With a slight elbow to the ribs, he let Trick know it was time to leave. Of course you'll be staying at my place with me and O, he said matter-of-factly, not leaving any room for discussion. Trick simply shrugged, "Sure, if that's what you want."

They walked in silence for a while. As they neared the house, Trick paused. "You know Tracer, I was thinking about asking Bryn to join us." Trace slowed but did not stop, there was really nothing to think about. He remembered Bryn. She and Trick had a rather long and eventful off and on again relationship. Bryn was sometimes too smart for her own good. She was easily the most intelligent of the old gang and they loved making fun of her. Trick always joined in the good natured ribbing but it was obvious to the others, he was crazy about Bryn. With a smile Trace mentioned, " No problem here Trick, all she does is study all the time anyway." Trick nodded in reply, Funny you should mention it, she's here studying in Rhy'din. Something about cultures of other worlds or some crap. I just need to find a way to get hold of her."

So it was unofficially decided, the old gang was getting back together...a little at a time.

Trick Thorne

Date: 2009-11-24 22:37 EST
The bedroom was nice, damn nice. Big screen on the wall, remote on the nightstand, fridge built right into the closet. Nice. Trick looked around and then plopped himself down on the king-sized bed. " Yessir, the old Tracer knows how to enjoy life."

He would have to arrange to have some of his things shipped here. The basics, maybe a few of the luxuries. That was easy enough. As he lay there on the bed, he gave some thought to how he might find Bryn. She must be somewhere in the city. Libraries, museums, bars, those are the places he would look first. Bryn was usually predictable but she did have a wild streak sometimes.

Springing up off the bed, he trotted downstairs. He yelled for Trace but there was no answer, same when he hollered for O. With a shrug, he headed out the door and into town.

Trick was always a lucky guy. It appeared his luck hadn't changed with his change of address. At his first stop, the Red Dragon Inn, he hit pay dirt. The bartender said Bryn was staying right there at the Inn. She wasn't there now, but he could leave her a note. Which is just what he did.

Bryn,

This will probably come as a bit of a surprise but I'm in town. Been a while since I've seen you. Staying on the beach with Trace and Owen. They're both here, can you believe it' Anyway, I'd love to see you. We'd all love to see you. When you get time, come out to the beach.

Trick

He scribbled the address on the bottom of the note before handing it to the bartender. A couple coins insured it would be delivered to her room upon her return. Mission accomplished, Trick headed home.

Bryn Kinsey

Date: 2009-11-27 20:06 EST
(deleted)

Owen Rodes

Date: 2009-12-01 21:19 EST
The dreaded Finals. She was scrunching her brows and pouting. The books were literally killing her. Trace knew she was working hard, studying hard, and all she had was one more week of meaningless torture left in her semester. Her brows were furrowed, heer forehead throbbed in ache and aggravation.

A long sigh fell from her lips, one book moved thudding to the ground. A weak grumble came and went before her stomach grumbled along side her. She surrendered, too tired to study and too tired to eat. Her head flopped down on the desk in the master room that was her and Trace's. Now more than anything, she wanted him to bother her. Kidnap her from her misery.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-12-03 20:26 EST
Trace had been home for hours with no sign of Owen. He knew she had been studying but, from the sound of it, he was the only one in the house. Deciding he needed a shower, he bopped down the hallway to the master bedroom only to find the door closed. He pushed it open just a crack and peeked inside. There was Owen, head down on an open book. "O", he whispered softly. "O?", this time just a little louder. He really didn't want to disturb her, he knew how hard she had been working and how important these last few weeks were to her.

Pushing the door open slowly, he walked over to the desk. She was sleeping. Trace smiled softly as he stood over her. She was exhausted, having been at the books for weeks now. He felt a little guilty at first. Life here for him was pretty much fun and games. O was a worker, one with a lot of pride.

Thinking at first to wake her, he shrugged as he changed his mind. He leaned forward and gingerly scooped her up in his arms. She wiggled a little but didn't wake. The girl was out. Carrying her over to the bed, he laid her down softly. With a smile, he started to leave the room. Maybe he'd make her something to eat for when she awoke. O had a killer body but she sure could eat and she was bound to be hungry. He hadn't made it out of the room when, again, he changed his mind.

Walking to the end of the bed, he crawled up behind her and gently pulled her against him. Wrapping one arm around her, he used the other to reach down and pull the large down comforter over them both. A soft kiss on her cheek and it was nap time for both of them. Yep, this was better.

Owen Rodes

Date: 2009-12-04 00:58 EST
Trace was always so good to her. Her heart knew even with the distance the books made, he would always be there for her. She loved him, and he loved her. So when she woke to find his arms coiled around her, it was nearly heart breaking. She felt as if she had been neglecting him. The frown was plain upon her face.

Owen shifted in the bed, turning around slowly to look in his eyes. This was her prince charming, even though he was a spoiled brat at times. The way he treated her, as his queen, it was all she would ever need. Slowly, one hand moved to his face, and gave a tender caress to his cheek bone. God he was so stunning, in any light. To have him made Owen the luckiest woman in her world. It was painful, too painful, when they had been without each other. At least on her.

"When I get done with all this Trace, I'm gonna treat you like the king you are and you better not object to it." She said, silent enough not to disturb him. A soft kiss was then pressed to his brow. The books could wait, it may be the last final week, but she was going to use the last few hours she had for studying where it was more important. On him. She had studied enough.

"I love you Trace.." She whispered, her smile on her lips was nothing other than that of a woman in love. It didn't matter how long they were together or apart, she was always going to be his.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-12-11 21:04 EST
One Summer Night...

That's all it had really been, not much different from all the other nights that summer.

It was late summer in Southern California, fall was only a few weeks away and everyone was preparing to return to school. The weather was still warm, it was always warm here, and the biggest and last beach party of the season was underway. As the the late afternoon gave way to early evening, the bonfire was built and everyone was out of the water. There was a tinge of sadness in the air. Everyone would be going their separate ways after tonight. Some back east to school, others heading north or south while others would be going overseas.

He was only 18 that summer and just barely. Most of the crowd was somewhere near his age, some a little older, only a few younger. He stood with a group of his friends, telling stories and swapping lies like they did everytime they got together. The beer was cold, the fire perfect as the large moon rose over the water. Something in him clicked that night. He knew that he needed to take it all in. He needed to realize how good and how special this night was. There wouldn't be more like it. They were becoming adults now, their world was changing. Soon the responsibilities of life would make nights like this impossible. The feeling of pure freedom, the feeling that the world belonged to them. Those times were ending soon but not just yet, not this night.

As the night grew cooler, most of the crowd found seats around the large fire. The guys slipping on sweatshirts with their shorts while the girls were covering up the skimpy bikini's that most of them wore. Many of the girls were with boyfriends and the couples snuggled together in a mock effort to keep warm. He stood with a small group of friends engaged in quiet conversation. The raucous music of earlier in the afternoon had given way to softer, more melodic tunes. All of this, coupled with the moon's reflection off the water, made it a truly magical night.

He first saw her when she walked past him. She politley said excuse me as she brushed by on her way to the beer cooler. He smiled and nodded as she passed. She was gorgeous. Tall, her skin kissed by the tan of the summer sun, long dark hair wrapping around her shoulders, she smiled but said nothing as she walked back to the fire. He whispered to one of his friends standing close, "Who's that?" "Owen Rodes", his friend replied, "but don't waste your time. That girl has broken more hearts than you could count. Besides, I hear that she's leaving for school next week". his friend finished.

He simply shrugged and watched her go. The night wore on, people came and went, many saying goodbye knowing it might be the last time they saw these friends for a very long time. He saw her again, standing nearer the fire with her arms wrapped around herself. She was still wearing her bikini with nothing on to protect her from the cool night air. Thinking he might never have a better opportunity, he walked over and stood next to her.

"Owen, right?", he asked a little nervously. She kept her arms wrapped around herself and turned her head with a classic 'here's another guy who wants to meet me' look. He would always remember that moment. Her dark eyes swallowed him completely. It was one of the few times that he felt not a shred of confidence. " Umm..you look kind of cold", he stammered as he pulled his sweatshirt off over his head. "Would you like to wear this?"

To his surprise, she smiled and took the sweatshirt. "Sure" was all she said. It was an awkward moment but they quickly indulged in meaningless small talk as they stood near the fire. Neither of them knew that this chance meeting would entwine their lives. They would drift apart and be joined together off and on over the next few years but this would be the night that he would remember. He still remembered.

Owen Rodes

Date: 2009-12-14 15:24 EST
Owen remembered it a bit differently....

One memorable Saturday.

"Owen, come on!" That was Owen's best friend at the time, Amanda Green.

It was late, cold, and dark. Somewhere in this darkness was Pruit Drake and her clothes. Pruit was the resident joker and Owen's personal pain in the ass. He was infatuated with her as several others had been. Owen Rodes hated Pruit with a passion, because of the fact that when ever she was around him, he had to be so damn childish.

Now she was out of clothes, and freezing. The blue bikini hardly helped. It was wet, she was wet, and she didn't have a towel. Thank the gods for the bond fire. Both feet pushed through the sand, bare thanks to Pruit. When she found him she was going to kill him.

That's when she had heard the boys. The words that she had been a heart breaker, it nudged at her. It was true, there were men and boys who had tried with all their might to be with Owen. Many of them had referred to PJ, her elder sister and wondered if she was just the same. It wasn't like that at all with Owen, and many were greatly disappointed. Owen hated being compared to her sister, they were hardly alike.

Owen was smart, so was PJ, but Owen seemed to be good at damn near everything. It was another thing that she had loathed entirely. For once, Owen wanted to be treated averagely, like a normal human being with no older sisters or no talents. That was why she was going away to school.

In the light of the fire, she observed who they were warning. He hadn't known of PJ, or anything about her. Trace was just as stunning then as he was now. It was hard for Owen to pretend she hadn't heard, but she was grateful for the minor distraction of the cold. It gave her all the more reason to curse the name Pruit while hours passed.

All around her, her friends flirted and spoke among themselves and their dates. Once more Owen was left out. No warm body, no man to call her own, and—-

"Owen, right?" By the gods even his voice was stunning. Her arms hugged at her body protectively. Owen couldn't help but remember what her mother had told her and her sister growing up. Yet, how would she know unless she took the chance" He seemed to be safe enough to offer a chance to, right' Why did he have to come so soon to her leaving?

Owen couldn't help but wonder if he was just the same as the other guys and she was sure that thought transferred onto her look. But there he was being surprising. Where others had failed to, he had offered her his jacket. What more could she say other than,"Sure.."

A small nervous gulp came over her at that point. Trace would soon learn that the only reason why she had broke so many hearts, was because she had never found any of the men to hold her interest. Hell, all because of one word, Trace was suddenly ten times luckier than any other man that was attracted to her. She had never even given them the time of day or night.

It was because of that one word, that one gut filled step, that she had found the love of her life. Trace Winter was all the more of a reason for her to stay as long as she had. When she had, they were together until that fate filled day that she had figured, where they were at in there relationship was where they would always be. It was the most painful choice she had to make, but the best choice in her life.

If their life wasn't going to go any further than it was now, then she was leaving and going to see what she could. Sure they argued, life was good for the both of them. She was in love with him, so deeply in love with him, but she felt like if she let it, they would be like they had been forever. Owen wanted more.

For as long as Owen was apart from him in this last venture, agony had rushed through her. At the time, all she had wanted was Trace, but she knew if she had gone back to him she would always fear things never changing. Only time would bring them together again and when she had seen them, it was like that first night on the beach. Absolutely perfect. She still remembered.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-12-22 21:14 EST
There was a light snow falling, the first he had seen since arriving here in Rhydin. As he looked out the window, he noticed the beach was entirely deserted. He suddenly felt very lonely. Trick had gone home for the holiday's and O was out doing something, at least according to the note she left for him.

He walked to the kitchen where he poured a glass of wine before returning to the living room. The hardwood floor had just been polished and it reflected the glow of the fire in the large stone fireplace. The Christmas tree was perfectly decorated, O had seen to that. The rest of the house was spotless, the cleaning woman was very thorough.

It would be the first Christmas that they had actually spent together. Seemed like the holiday season had been rough on them in the past and he wanted this one to be good. He thought briefly about the diamond ring buried in his dresser in the bedroom. Now wasn't the time. He felt like they needed some time together first and he was fairly confident that O would feel the same way.

He made his way to the shower, finishing the glass of wine on his way down the hall. The warm water felt good. Coupled with the wine, it made him feel rather relaxed. Slipping into his robe, he headed back to the kitchen where he grabbed two fresh glasses and an extra bottle of wine.

He turned the lights down in the large living room, letting the fire cast it's flickering light on the floor and walls. Setting the wine and glasses on the stone hearth, he settled down on the warm plush rug in front of the fire. He would wait for O to get home and they would start their own holiday traditions.

Owen Rodes

Date: 2009-12-23 01:51 EST
Hang all the mistletoe I'm gonna get to know you better, yeah This Christmas

And as we trim the tree How much fun it's gonna be together, yeah ha This Christmas

Fireside is blazing bright We're caroling through the night And this Christmas, will be yeah A very special Christmas, for me yeah

Presents and cards are here My world is filled with cheer and you, ohh yeah This Christmas

And as I look around Your eyes outshine the town, they do This Christmas

Fireside is blazing bright We're caroling through the night

And this Christmas, will be A very special Christmas, for me yeah

Alright, break it down, ha ha ha

Ooh yeah, yeah yeah, alright Yeah yeah yeah, yeah yeah Yeah yeah yeah yeah, yeah yeah Alright now, right now, now

Fireside, oh, is blazing bright We're caroling through the night, yeah And this Christmas, will be, oh A very special Christmas, for me yeah And this Christmas, will be A very special Christmas, for me oh oh

Yeah yeah yeah yeah Merry Christmas, ooh yeah Gonna have a merry Christmas, ohh yeah, oh oh Merry Christmas, oh it will be

Oh, a very very very special Christmas A very special Christmas (this Christmas) Alright now, right now, yeah oh It will be now, oh (this Christmas) Oh, this will be, this will be, baby

A very special Have a merry merry Christmas (hey yeah) And a happy New Year Oh hey, alright, yeah yeah yeah Merry Christmas This Christmas Oh this will be, this will be, baby

~This Christmas~

Owen was elated, there was nothing more than that when it came down to what she had gotten Trace. On her way home however, she had paused at a window. She could look, couldn't she? There it was in all its glory. A diamond ring on a golden band. It was simple, it was elegant, and it was as perfect as perfect could be.

Part of her heart swooned at the sight of it, even longed for it, but she knew Trace was far from ready. Her fingers brushed at the window, she wanted that chance so bad with Trace that she could taste it; but to her, it was just another dream she couldn't hope on. Trace was touch and go, she knew that about him. This was one thing she wasn't sure would ever happen between her and him. They'd be together forever, but never that together.

A long, weary sigh, fell from her lips. All good things shouldn't ever be ruined by hopes that are too strong for their own good. Once more she found herself listening to Momma's advice. Live for life, hold no regrets, and never let a man get you down or break your heart. Hold out to the end and for the best, if you have the best, hold onto it no matter the cost. Matrimony seemed to be the cost for the best. And she'd pay it ten fold for Trace Winter.

As she got home, it began to pick up in snow. She was cold to the bone, and ready for that fire. Her jacket was slid off at the door, and his present(strictly labeled: No Touchie till X-Mas) was tucked under her arm. Both dark eyes were scanning the room for the love of her life and found him by the fire. Her smile grew from a small, semi pleased one, to full pearly whites with that sight. Wine, fire, and him. It was enough to make her forget the sight in the Marketplace.

Once she was free of boots, scarf, and gloves, she moved over to him and to his side. Eventually she was nestled besides him, his gift pushed under the tree for him to ride on curiosity. She leaned in, delivered a kiss to him, and smiled. It was time for them to start their own traditions.

Trace Winter

Date: 2009-12-27 22:03 EST
It was a Christmas he would always remember. His first here in Rhydin and the first spent with O. The snow, the fire, and the most beautiful woman he had ever known. How could it have been any better"

They sat in front of the fire all Christmas Eve, talking and drinking wine. The first bottle had emptied far quicker than either of them could have anticipated, the second and third bottles a little slower. Trace hadn't thought there was much to discuss but it seemed the two of them talked all night. He found out so many things about Owen that he hadn't known. Isn't it funny when you think you know someone only to find out that you never really knew them at all" That's how he felt as the conversation took one turn after another. It was somewhere in the wee hours of the morning when it struck him just how much he was in love. He didn't so much just hear her words, he hung on them. He noticed her smile, her dark eyes reflectiong the glow of the fire, the silky smoothness of her long hair, the warmth of her skin. For perhaps the first time, he really noticed her. She was perfection.

He wasn't sure what time it was when they fell asleep. She was safely wrapped in his arms as they lay there on the deep rug whispering back and forth, both of them bathed in the warmth and soft glow of the dying fire. There would be other days for the two of them. Some of those days would be good and some not so good but, here in this moment, he had found what he had been missing for a very long time.

Owen Rodes

Date: 2009-12-28 00:42 EST
How could she ever forget what she saw in his eyes that night. While they spoke and shared, he made her feel like she was the only woman in the world. The way his fingers brushed through her hair, the way he smiled to her words, and the way he listened to her. It was the very meaning of feeling beautiful.

His eyes were stunning, always breath taking, but for some reason in the fire he stole her very heart with the way he looked at her. Not that he needed to, she was already lost to him. Her heart had always been his. It just needed to be recaptured in all honesty.

With the argument Owen was scared. She was afraid she would loose him again, and she never wanted that again. So feeling loved, knowing with just the way he looked at her, it put her at ease and erased all her fears. He didn't need the wine, the fire, or the warm embrace. All he needed was that feeling to grow between them.

There was love that night like she had never experienced. He was hers and she was his. She didn't need a ring to know that. When she drifted to sleep that night she was happy to just nestle in his embrace. It was where she felt safe and wanted like never before. The feeling was mutual. She never wanted to be without him again.

Trace Winter

Date: 2010-06-10 20:34 EST
I wasn't sure what time it was when I got back, but it was either very early or very late. Either way, my timing was perfect. The sky was crystal clear and there must have been a million stars twinkling overhead. The moon was bright enough to illuminate the beach as far as I could see in any direction. There was a warm breeze blowing and, with the exception of the waves breaking on the sand, everything was still. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. It was good to be back.

I checked the apartment and found it empty. I had figured O would be at school but was surprised at not finding Trick or Bryn. Trick was living here free and he usually took full advantage of anything that was free. Bryn? Who knew. The girl was a free spirit and could be anywhere.

It didn't take me long to decide what to do. I wasn't tired and it was a near perfect night. I grabbed the last two beers from the 'fridge and headed back to the beach. I popped the top from the bottle as I hit the sand and just as quickly stripped off my shirt and shorts. My boxers would do just fine, besides, no one was looking. I tossed the other bottle on the sand for later and waded into what I hoped would be a warm surf.

I wasn't disappointed. The water was as perfect as the night. Warm enough to be inviting and cool enough to be refreshing. I sat back, the water rising just to my chin. I simply floated there, slowly sipping the cold beer. I was content. Content to just be here, now, in the solitude of the night and the water. There would be time later to get together with everyone, to make plans for the new house, to get on with life.

For now, this was enough.

Owen Rodes

Date: 2010-06-12 20:50 EST
::Setting the scene. The sun had set, the light had faded, and the stars had shimmered lightly above her. While sitting there, on the porch and soaking her feet in the tub she sighed out. A small sigh, the kind that held her distances away. She was far away with trace. Far, far away.::

::: He had been gone longer than expected..much longer. He wasn't sure what to expect when he saw her...but there she was..sitting quietly when he walked up with a small and somewhat sheepish:: uh...hiya O. :: a slight cringe::

::Closing her eyes, her head leaned back, and a long sigh left her lips. How many times she wanted to hear that, Oh how many times. A small smile formed on her lips before it vanished. Hearing things" Most likely. At last that's what she had it down to. Her head lowered, her eyes gazed at her hands, and she pursed her lips.::

::he was tired...but shook his head with a soft chuckle as he watched in the soft darkness:: I guess that means you don't have dinner ready? :: he whispered softly, trying really hard not to laugh through his smile::

::What kind of question was that' He was away on business. Her gaze snapped back to him. She looked like a deer in the headlights.:: Trace" ::Owlish blink::

::smiling with a quick wink, he simply walked up and plopped down besider her...as if he'd simply been inside for a few minutes rather than gone for months. With a tired little yawn, he took her hand in his:: Been a long day huh O" :: then he leaned his head back and let his eyes close for a moment....he was content::

::His hand was squeezed at, almost as if testing that he was there, and that she wasn't dreaming this part up. Wait for it. Wait for it. SWAT! Not hard, she didn't want to hurt him....Much.:: You were supposed to call when you got to Rhy'din! ::Lips pursed in that persistant frown:: What took you so long"

::he snuggled over against her, resting his head on her shoulder:: You know I meant to...but I'm not so good with the calling and stuff. ::he nestled his head into her shoulder until he found a comfortable spot before continuing in a sleepy whisper:: I should have been back months ago but...well....things just took longer than expected I guess.

::How could she resist him when he was this sleepy' She bit her lip, practically gnawed on it and then melted. She wanted to be mad at him, hell it would have been easy to be mad and storm away, but this was so much better. Her lips pressed to his brow before she whispered out.:: How long have you been back"

::a slight shrug, almost imperceptible:: Just last night..I think. That whole crossing over thing makes me lose track of time. I went for a quick swim and was on my way to bed...didn't expect to find you sitting here. :: talks through a slow yawn:: but I'm glad I did.

::Fingers fumbled over the ring on her left finger and she found herself nuzzling his shoulder lightly. Small kisses fell against his shoulders and her fingers traced along his back. A small smile formed before she whispered out.:: I've gotten to where I stayed up late, waiting for a call or you to walk through the....door. ::She had been doing it for some time that she lost track.::

::a sleepy smile as he peered over and up at her:: I'll do better next time..promise. No more staying up late..you're gettin' too old for that stuff :: as he softly poked a finger into her side:: a woman your age needs her rest.

::She squeek lightly, wriggled, and then giggled. A frown formed, her eyes turning to lock on his face.:: And at your age, Trace Winter....You shouldn't stay away from home so long. ::She murmured:: It's very bad for your wife to be.

:: he smiled and ran a hand through his hair...stretching and sitting up:: It's bad for me too...I had almost forgotten just how beautiful my wife to be is....:: just a brief pause and a wink:: almost. Next time I go away, I'll take my wife to be with me...okay"

::She smiled to his words, damn his silver tongue. A giggle, a blush, and his eyes locked to hers, she was right as rain. Her lips pressed to his for a moment before she whispered.:: Promise?

::he kissed her softly then stood up and pulled her up with him:: Of course I promise honey. Now lets go to bed...you need to welcome me back and then I need some sleep. :: a wink that didn't seem nearly as sleepy as the first one::

::She smirked:: I should make you suffer...Beg for it. ::She teased as her feet let her slip from him and start towards the room before him.::

:: he picked up the pace after her:: Mmmm...you know I will. :: and off they went::

(Thanks Trace for the play!)

Owen Rodes

Date: 2010-06-12 20:54 EST
Lips brushed the fine contours of his chest, fingers running along his shoulder. She rested her forehead on his shoulder, closed her eyes, and then took a deep breath of him. A long, contented breath of him. He was home, and if her heart couldn't stop beating a mile a minute, she didn't know if it ever would.

A small shift of her frame brought her up. Both of her hands ran along her hair and her eyes flickered to lock with his slumbering face. One hand lifted up, running her fingers along his cheek, the ring on her hand glittering in the dimb light," I love you.." She leaned in, kissed his cheek, and then slipped from the bed.

It was a busy day ahead, people to see, places to go.

Trace Winter

Date: 2010-06-13 19:09 EST
He slowly opened one eye with a soft groan. Could it be morning already? Flopping one arm over and around the bed, he quickly discovered he was alone. Either he had completely imagined a rather wild night with Owen or she had slipped away very early and very quietly. He suspected the latter, an evening in the rack with O was not something he would forget. He planted his feet on the floor and ran his hands over his face and through his hair. He needed a nice hot shower and then...well....whatever. There was nothing he needed to do.

Standing under the hot spray of the shower he thought that maybe there were a few things he needed to do today. He needed to find Trick and make sure he was in on the plans for the new house. Trick was good at planning and he often spotted the things Trace missed. The two worked well together. So, there was something to do this morning. But as usual, the morning would be followed by the afternoon....and afternoon's were the time for the beach.

Stepping from the shower stall, he dripped his way back to the bedroom where he quickly dried off with the same old towel. It needed to find it's way to the laundry. Slipping into shorts and a t-shirt he headed to the kitchen. There he took a quick look around, to make sure Owen wasn't watching, and took a long drink directly from the jug of milk in the 'fridge.

After that quick breakfast, he scribbled a note for O and left it on the counter. O, if it's morning I'm with Trick (I think). If it's afternoon, I'm at the beach. Love ya. T.

Owen Rodes

Date: 2010-06-15 04:33 EST
She was home for lunch, nibbling in a piece of orange while she looked over his note. A smile grew on her lips, light doodles forming at the note while she thought. Finally she scribbled on it, a grin on her lips:

Trace,

I need your opinion on something. Will you meet me here" Perhaps for a date around 7"

Hope to see you there.

O.

Beneath the scribbled message was an address and directions followed by:

xoxoxoxo