The next couple days were a flurry of activity between packing, moving, and classes. Theyd planned it perfectly, by the time the weekend rolled around, all their things were at the new place. That left them all weekend to get settled in and rest up for finals week. During their first week, things began falling into a comfortable rhythm. Whoever woke up first usually started breakfast. They took turns with dishes, laundry, cleaning, and such. Kailani had been rather busy studying, doing research, and tutoring others. Balraj was busy studying as well. With all those classes hed missed early on, hed had quite a bit to catch up on. They hadnt been out that week. Though, each evening they made sure to spend an hour or so cuddling, usually making out, on the couch before theyd retire to their own rooms. Balraj hadnt minded sharing a room with Christian. He was neat and a quiet sleeper. However, Balraj desperately wanted to share Kailanis bed, though he wanted it to be her choice. He wanted her to come to him. It had been so difficult each night this week to go from feeling her warmth beside him, on him, under him on the couch to his own cool bed, alone. The though that it was him she chose to give herself to gave him much pleasure. How it made him want her again and again. Friday evening finally arrived. Christian ordered pizza and invited his favorite little red head over so Kailani and Balraj could meet her. Her name was Sierra. She was a cheerleader for the Llamas. He was sure she would get on well with Kailani, and she did. They all played games, watched movies, and chatted together for quite a while. After midnight Sierra decided it was time to leave, not surprisingly, Christian decided to leave with her and spend the weekend with her at her parents back home. Kailani began cleaning up the pizza boxes, games and such. Do you need any help? No, relax. Put a movie in. Ill be done in just a few minutes. Balraj did just that, started a movie and stretched out on the couch. A short while later, Kailani joined him. Balraj turned on his side to make room for her. She stretched out beside him and rested her damp head upon his arm. He draped his arm around her waist, pulling her closer to him. He pushed play on the remote and the movie started. Not long after, he sensed her steady breathing pattern realizing that shed fallen asleep. With her that close and the fresh scent of one of her many floral scented soaps that clung to her filling his senses he could barely pay attention to the movie. Knowing this, he shut it off. He slowly moved out from behind her and went to her room to pull her bedding down. He went back out, scooped her up, and laid her in the center of her bed. He planted a soft kiss on her forehead and tucked her in. He was at the doorway when he heard . . . Where are you going? Im sorry. I didnt mean to wake you. You fell asleep; so, Im headed to bed. Her voice became thick with desire, Stay with me. Kay, if I stay with you, Im afraid there wont be much sleeping. Stay with me, Balraj, she pulled the blankets back, inviting him in.
Two years later . . . It seems just like yesterday that Balraj moved into Kailani’s life. He lay there quietly with her in his arms, just as he’d done every night since that amazing night she invited him to her bed. This was the end of her final year; he has one more to go. What would he do without her there warming their bed? He’d mentioned leaving school with her. She wouldn’t hear of it though and insisted he stay to finish his education. This way she’d be settled and have a home waiting for him. What could happen in a year? With a heavy sigh he figured he’d find out soon, much too soon for his own liking and he drifted off to sleep. When Kailani awoke, Balraj still lay peacefully asleep. She began packing her things for her trip home. She’d found a great little place Downtown that was close to work. She could take a taxi until she could afford a car. Actually, she didn’t think she’d even need a car. Traffic was so crazy that she’d rather pay someone else to deal with it anyhow. She was so excited to get started with the next phase of her life. Though, as she glanced at Balraj sleeping in bed, she became saddened that she’d now be going to bed alone until he finished school. She loved him, she knew it. He had her heart and soul. She desperately wanted him to leave school with her, though she knew that he should finish college. Just then she’d heard some commotion out in the kitchen. Walking out she noticed Christian and his “little red head” as he called her. “Good morning, guys,” she smiled. “Sorry to wake you, sis,” said Christian. “You didn’t wake me. I’ve been getting some things packed up to head out.” She noticed that Christian must have been doing the same as the hall had several boxes stacked in it. “Balraj is still sleeping though.” “Could you wake him up, Kay? We’ve got something we want to share with you both.” Christian flashed Sierra his bright whites and she came to his side and wrapped her arms around him. Before Kailani could leave to get Balraj up, he walked out of the room. “Morning, all.” He walked up behind Kailani and wrapped his arms around her. She leaned her head back to look up at him and he placed a kiss on her forehead. Kailani looked at Christian questioningly, “So, what’s the big news?” “Well, sis, Sierra and I are engaged. As soon as we get out of here, we’re getting hitched. I found a nice little place a couple blocks from Mom and Dad’s. No big ‘to do,’ just the JP and us.” “Christian!” Kailani exclaimed as she rushed toward them and embraced both he and Sierra in a hug. “I’m so excited for you guys!!” Balraj hugged Sierra and Christian as well. “That’s really awesome. I’m so happy for the both of you.” After the congratulations and hugs, Balraj and Kailani helped them load up their taxi and away they went.
Balraj stood there with his arm draped around Kailani’s shoulder. He casually leaned and kissed her on her temple. They slowly walked into the house and Balraj quietly helped Kailani put her boxes by the door. As Kailani finished up, Balraj started on lunch and sat at the table and waited for her to join him. Kailani put the last of her things by the door and sat across from Balraj. Balraj reached across the table and held Kailani’s hand. “I can’t believe two years have gone by since I’ve met you.” “Time flies when you’re having fun,” she stated distantly. “I’m happy for Christian and Sierra.” “Yeah, me too. I’m just still a bit shocked though. I didn’t think he’d settle so quickly.” “Settle? You mean settle down?” “Hmm, yeah, settle, settle down, whatever.” “You seem,” he paused searching for the word, “distant. Is there something wrong?” “No, just anxious to get out there and started with my life.” Balraj’s eyes dropped to his half eaten lunch, “Without me.” Kailani reached across the table and caressed his cheek. “No, not without you. I’m saddened that I’ll be without you for a while, though excited at the same time to get started on my career.” “Yes, the career, your name in lights and all that.” “What’s wrong with a career, Balraj? We’ve skimmed around this topic so many times.” “There’s nothing wrong with a career. I just think that sometimes my own priorities have changed after being with you.” She tilted her head questioningly, “What do you mean?” “Well, I was all set to travel the world, see things, not settle down ‘til I was ‘old and gray.’ Then I met you, now I’d be content—more than content—to stay wherever you may be and have you forever.” “Balraj, I love you so much,” she said sighing. “I do want a family someday, just not someday so soon. I admire my Mom for being a stay at home parent; however, that’s just not what I want.” “I know, and you’ve never made that a secret.” Outside they heard the blowing horn of the taxi. “Already?” asked Balraj. “I called just before I sat down to eat. I couldn’t handle dragging it out. I’m sorry, Balraj.” Balraj jumped up and drew her into his arms. He knew it would only be a couple days ‘til he’d come and see her and her new place. He’d just grown so accustomed to having her in his arms every night. “I’ll help you load your things.” He kissed her forehead lightly and released her. Within moments the taxi was loaded and ready to carry his girl away. “Don’t stand there looking so forlorn. I’ll see you in a few days.” “I know, Kay. I’m just going to miss going to sleep with you in my arms.” Kailani wrapped her arms around Balraj. “I’m going to miss your warmth.” She looked up at him and pressed her lips to his. He kissed her hungrily. She nearly started to cry when she looked into his eyes after she pulled away. “It won’t be long, hon. I’ll see you in a few days and the year will fly by. You’ll see.” He placed his hands on either side of her face, “I love you.” He kissed her tenderly. “I’ll see you soon.” She pulled away and he smacked her on her backside. She turned and smiled and climbed into the taxi and it pulled away.
Balraj slowly walked into the house and grabbed his bass. Kailani and the taxi driver unloaded her boxes on the curb. There she was. Her own place. She felt so empowered. She started carrying her stuff into the house and arranging things. Sometime after midnight she decided she should get a good night’s rest for her first day of work. She was so tired from moving things around all evening, she went right to sleep. If Balraj could have been so lucky. His first night alone sleep hadn’t come so easily. He’d sat around the house playing his bass, chess, anything to occupy his time. He even went out to shoot some pool. He’d felt so alone. Not only had Kailani gone, but his pool partner left as well. The last he’d remembered looking at the clock, it was after 3 a.m. By the weekend Balraj was restless. When he’d called to see what plans were for the weekend, he’d only gotten a busy signal then the machine. By Sunday evening, he was rather worried. Finally, she called. “Balraj, I’m so sorry. We’ve had a family emergency.” “One that doesn’t include calling me and letting me know what’s going on? We lived together for two flippin’ years. Am I not family?” He stated crossly. “I’m really sorry, my Mom called crying and Dad was furious. My family is a mess right now. Reeve, Chris, and I are all so confused.” She began to cry into the phone. Balraj wanted to be able to reach out to her. “I’m sorry for raising my voice. I just became so worried about you. Tell me what’s wrong.” “I think I’ve told you before that Dad was a business tycoon, right?” “Yes, I remember hearing that once or twice.” “Well, apparently, he was out one night and met someone. They had a little ‘fling.’ Mom found out and instead of confronting him and talking about it, she went out and had fling of her own and now she’s pregnant to some other man! She’s terribly upset about what she did and Dad is furious with her. He’s taking no responsibility at all. It’s awful, Balraj, just awful.” “Kailani, I wish I could be there to comfort you. I miss you terribly.” “I miss you too, Balraj,” she said clearing her throat. “Things are just crazy; they’ve been crazy all week without the family stuff.” “So, how is work?” “It’s great. I love it. I got a manager already. They say my future is bright. I know, they probably say that to a lot of young girls, but I can’t help but get excited. I love living in the city. All the commotion, lights and such.” “I knew you’d do fine. I can’t wait to see you.” “And I, you. I really do need to be going though. Thanks for calming me down. I need to get to bed early as I’m auditioning to be a body double tomorrow. I’m hoping to get it. The money’s a little better, and I get screen time. Though, no one will know it’s me and not the star.” “Believe me, if I see the movie, I’ll know.” Kailani giggled. “I love you, I’ll see you soon.” “Love you too.” Gosh, how he wanted to reach out and touch her. I couldn’t believe it had only been a week since he’d seen her. Now, it would be another week, at least. His heart went out to her about her family. Well, what he had left of his heart, she’d already taken most of it when she got in that taxi and pulled away.
This week was going as slow as the last. When he got home from class on Wednesday, there had been a message on the machine from Kailani. She’d sounded excited. She mentioned getting the part of the body double or whatever. She also mentioned that things were somewhat mending on the home front. They seemed to be a tight knit group, though he’d never met her parents. He’d chatted to them occasionally when they’d called for Chris or Kay when they were at university. That’s all the contact he’d had with them. He wasn’t even sure they knew who he was. Oh, well. That’s a thought for another time. His girl had called him and told him to come “home” this weekend. He couldn’t wait to see her. When he’d arrived at the address she’d provided him, his heart began to pound. Before he could even knock, she threw the door open and jumped into his arms. “Oh, I’ve missed you, Balraj!” She firmly planted her lips onto his and kissed him passionately. “We’re not even in the house yet!” He set her back to her feet in front of him. “Your hair is long; it wasn’t two weeks ago,” he stated more as a question. “I know, silly. I got extensions. There’s a bit part I’ve been rehearsing for that I felt the character should have longer hair. You like?” “I think anything . . . or nothing . . . would look great on you.” With that she giggled and pulled him inside the house. By the end of the weekend, they’d gone out to dinner once. He’d been able to meet her manager, who seemed nice enough, though, Balraj wasn’t quite sure he trusted him. It was probably just because he got to spend time with Kailani and Balraj didn’t. Other than that, they didn’t leave the house, if you get my drift. But, as we all know, all things must come to an end and it was time for Balraj to go back to university. “I’ll see you at the end of the week?” he questioned. “Um, if I don’t get the part, yes. However, if I do get the part, I’ll be rehearsing over the weekend with my manager. I’ll let you know later in the week. Love you!” She threw her arms around him and kissed him tenderly. “You drive me crazy, you know that?” With a devilish little smirk, “Yes, I do know that. You behave.” “Me?! Be careful and I love you.” With that, he climbed into the cab and drove away.
After Balraj climbed into the cab, Kailani ran in to answer the ringing phone. It was her manager, Ifran. “Kailani, there’s a party tonight that I think you should make an appearance at.” “Is it casual, formal? What should I wear?” “It’s a black tie/red carpet event. I’ve rented a limo so you can arrive in style. There will be photographers, reporters, and all sorts of big wigs once we get inside. Look your absolute best, classy with a bit of sexy thrown in. The limo will be there around 8 p.m.” “That’s only an hour! Gotta go!!!” She slammed down the phone, jumped in the shower and began to get ready. She went for an upswept hairstyle and a red gown that she’d had from a friend’s wedding she was in a year or so ago. By 8 p.m., she was putting the finishing touches on her make up. It’s amazing what you can do when you’re in a rush she thought as she looked pleasingly in the mirror. If Balraj could see me now, he’d be panting like a dog, Kailani giggled to herself. As she switched some items from her purse to her clutch she heard the horn of the limousine. She opened the door just as Ifran raised his hand to knock. She smiled and was going to ask how she looked. She didn’t have to; his look said it all. The way his eyes swept over her small frame both embarrassed and pleased her at the same time. “You look,” he licked his lips, “delicious.” Kailani chuckled, “Not quite sure I was going for delicious, maybe wonderful.” “Well, yes, that too.” He couldn’t take his eyes off of her. He held his elbow for her to grab and he escorted her to the limousine. She slid across the seat and he sat along beside her. “There will probably be paparazzi there waiting for the A-listers. Some may ask for your picture and ask questions like your name, job, and possibly personal questions. I’ll take care of most of the questions for you as this will be a new experience for you and you may feel a bit awestruck.” “Not may feel, do feel awestruck and I’m not even there yet.” He patted her hands, and then left his hand linger there on her lap. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of everything,” as he clasp her hand in his. They pulled up to the curb at the club and the driver opened the door. Ifran stepped out and helped Kailani out. As they stepped onto the red carpet, he placed his hand in the small of her back and guided her to the entrance. They were stopped several times and a few pictures were taken. They’d gotten her name and what her accomplishments were to this point. Most pictures were taken of her alone; though, she noticed several photographers snapped shots when Ifran was close with his arm guiding her or whispering in her ear. Ifran did just as he’d said and taken care of most, if not all, questions. She’d smile politely or chat with Ifran. When someone asked if she was seeing someone, “Yes— .” Ifran cut her off, “No, she’s currently single.” She continued to smile politely; however, she couldn’t help but feel regret for letting him get away with that answer. The evening went without a hitch. They chatted up several famous and not so famous actors, actresses, directors, producers, and the like. By 2 a.m. Kailani told Ifran, who never left her side, she was ready to head home. Once at home Ifran stepped out of the limo and walked Kailani to the door, “You were magnificent tonight. I’m sure you made just the right impression.” “Thanks so much for being there. I truly would have been lost without you.” Before she could turn to walk inside the house, Ifran raised her hand to his lips and kissed it. She was taken aback and before she could politely step away, he kissed her softly on the cheek. She pulled her hand from his and stepped away, “Ifran, I do have Balraj.” “And I know that, Kailani. I was just paying my respects to a beautiful woman. Have a good night.” He bowed and walked a way. Kailani got ready for bed and without another thought of the night, went right to sleep.
By Friday, Balraj had yet to speak to Kailani. She’d left a few messages, but they seemed to be playing phone tag. He was getting ready to head out to meet some friends, since he obviously didn’t have plans with Kailani this weekend, when the phone rang. “Hello?” “Balraj!! I’ve been trying for days to reach you. We keep missing each other. What are you doing?” “I’ve missed you, Kay.” “I know, I’ve missed you too. I’ve got some great news though.” “What’s that?” “I got the part I wanted and I’m already auditioning for commercials!” “Kailani, that’s wonderful. I’m so happy for you.” “I’m so excited, Balraj. Everything is just as I’ve wanted. Ifran took me to this event on Sunday after you left and we met some very influential people and they’re interested in putting me to work right away. That’s why I’m already auditioning for these commercials. I’m so glad he’s my manager. I met several actresses and actors that have been body doubles and/or doing bit parts for years. Here I am, just weeks in and I’ve got my first bit part this week and commercial auditions already!!” “I want to see you, Kay.” “I know, Bal. I want to see you too. This weekend is just going to be so busy. I’ve been invited to some very important parties and events. I can’t believe this is happening so fast.” “I knew it would. You’re beautiful and have a good heart. People see that.” Knowing that staying on the phone was only going to hurt him, “I’ve got to head out. I have some friends waiting for me.” “You have fun, Love ya!” and she hung up the phone. “Yeah, love you too.” He hung up the phone, grabbed a bottle whiskey, and sat on the couch. Balraj was losing her and he knew it. He knows that she’s not doing it on purpose. It’s what she’s always wanted and he knew that. He was just hoping that she’d change her mind. He didn’t want to make her though. It was her life. Balraj decided at that point that from now on, he’ll do his best to avoid the phone calls and distance himself from her. More contact could only cause pain in the long run.
Kailani sat alone in her apartment wondering why Balraj hadn’t returned any of her calls the past couple weeks. She missed him terribly. She decided to call her brother. “Hello?” “Christian, it’s Kailani.” “Hey, sis! How have you been? I just saw your commercial the other day. The folks, Reeve, Sierra, and I are all so proud of you.” “Thanks, Chris,” she sighed, “I just wish someone else was as proud.” Questioningly, “What do you mean?” “I haven’t been able to get in touch with Balraj. I think he’s avoiding me. I miss him terribly and he’s not returning my calls. I’d drop in, but that’s two to three hours away and I’ve been so busy.” “Hmm, that’s weird. I just talked to him yesterday. He didn’t say anything. I’m sure he’s just been busy.” “I sure hope so.” “Well, Kailani, I hate to cut you off, but Sierra and I have plans this evening. Hope things work out. Give me a call, and congratulations!” “Thanks, Chris. Have a good night!” Kailani hung up the phone a bit more bewildered than when she started the call. Balraj usually confided in Christian. Maybe he has just been busy. Just then, her phone rang. “Hello!?” She answered hopefully. “Kay, dear, it’s Ifran.” “Oh, hello.” “Don’t sound so excited.” “Sorry, I was just expecting someone else.” “You still haven’t heard from Balraj?” “No, I haven’t. It’s killing me, Ifran.” “I understand,” he paused momentarily, “would you like to go to dinner and talk?” “I’m not sure that would be a good idea.” “Kay, it’s just dinner. Manager, client. You could use some more exposure. Your commercials are taking off and I have a few requests to go over with you.” “Okay, I’ll be ready in a few.”
Balraj sat alone in his home. It’s been a couple weeks since he’d talked with Kailani. He’d been at the library the other day and spotted a magazine with what he thought to be a picture of Kailani in it. He thumbed through the pages and there she was. His heart nearly stopped. She was in a beautiful red gown, her hair up, and HIS arm around her. Balraj knew that he was her manager, but just the site of his arm possessively around his Kailani drove him crazy. He’d bought his own copy so he could go home and stew in private. As Balraj sat there, with yet another bottle of whiskey, looking at the pictures from the event now he realized there was a short biography section of each “star” and they had listed her as single. That bothered him tremendously. A whole section of the magazine was based around the up and comers and they had predicted Kailani to be a big star. He knew that he’d been avoiding her and this was definitely one reason why. He’d seen it coming. He tossed the magazine across the room and turned on the television. He awoke hours later with the television blaring. His head was throbbing. Balraj saw the empty bottle on the floor and realized he must’ve passed out. What made him wake up now? He wondered. Then he heard her . . . There she was, as beautiful as could be, stumping for some hair products on the television. His heart ached and he picked up the phone. *** Kailani was finishing getting ready when Ifran walked into the house. They’d become great friends and she’d been able to confide in him. Her phone began to ring. “Ifran, could you get that please?” “Sure thing.” “Hello?” There was no answer, “Hello!” Dial tone. “Must’ve been a wrong number, Kay.” She stepped out of the bedroom, “I’m ready when you are.” They went out and climbed into his car. *** Balraj realized that he had to straighten up and move on. He couldn’t let his college grades suffer because of some broad. He’d become slightly bitter. Her face haunted him on television and in magazine ads. It had been a month since he’d tried to call her and that manager answered. It had made him so angry he skipped classes for over a week. He was always out at the bar, gambling, or playing pool. With that thought, he headed to the library instead of the bar. Upon his return home the phone was ringing. “Hello?” “Balraj,” simply stated. “Kay,” he sighed heavily as he couldn’t believe his ears. “Is there something wrong?” “Depends on how you look at it.” “I’m sorry? I don’t follow.” “I know that I haven’t called in a while, but you seemed to not be returning my calls on purpose. I know that you’ve made time to talk to Christian.” “Kay, listen. As hard as it is for me to say it, it’s better this way. I won’t be holding you back.” “Balraj, would you shut-up and listen to me? I think that the next time you decide what’s best; you talk to me about it. I know that I’ve been busy and haven’t had time, but I will someday soon. I want you to be there when I do.” “Kay, honey, I want to be there, but it’s so hard to see your face everywhere and not be able to kiss it.” “Well, you could . . .” “I’ll look a bit crazy trying to plant one on the television at the bar or sucking on a magazine.” Kailani laughed out loud. “I’ve missed you terribly.” “I’ve missed you too. Now, is there really something wrong or something you wanted to tell me?” “Um, well, yes. I don’t know how to tell you.” “Try opening your mouth and telling me,” he smiled. “Are you sitting down?” “Gosh, Kay, spill it.” “Okay, just remember you asked for it . . . I’m pregnant.” Balraj dropped the phone.
“Are you there, Balraj? What’s going on? Are you okay?” Kailani asked panicked. Pulling himself together and picking the phone back up. “Did I just hear you correctly? You’re pregnant. We’re going to have a baby? What’s this going to do for your career?” Giggling, “Yes, Bal, you did hear me correctly. We are pregnant. I was so worried what you would say or do.” “Oh, Kay, you know that I love you. I’m happy about this. I want to be there for you, for the baby, for everything.” “I hoped and secretly thought you would, which is one reason I love you.” “Again, though, what about your career?” “Balraj, I never said I was quitting. I’m not showing yet; so, I can still do commercials. Even after I begin showing I can do maternity ads, and I’ve just started doing voices for cartoons.” “Things really are moving along for you aren’t they?” Balraj asked quietly. “Yes, Balraj, they are. Though you are the only thing that isn’t cooperating.” A slow smile crossed his face. He’s going to have a child. “I can’t express how happy I am, Kailani. I’ll leave school tomorrow—” “No, I still want you to finish school. The baby’s due in about 7 months. By then, you’ll be finished or just about finished. Until then, there are weekends, which I promise to devote to you. Then after you’re done, you can move right in here with me. After the baby comes, we can either move or remodel to make the place bigger.” “Kailani, you know I have the money, we can start looking for a bigger place now.” “No, we’ll wait. I really like where I’m at and it’s not an inconvenience at all.” “I’m so happy, Kay. I can’t wait to see you this weekend.” “Yes, this weekend we’ll be together. I’ve missed you so.” “And I’ve missed you.” “Balraj, I do hate to go, but I’m going to let you digest all this—begin thinking of names by the way. I’m feeling pretty tired. I’m so happy this is all working out. I love you.” “I love you too, Kay,” he hung up the phone. He and Kailani were going to have a child! He was so happy he couldn’t contain himself. He began jumping up and down on the couch and calling all his friends. Finally, he finished his classes on Friday and hopped in a cab to take him to his ‘family.’ Just as before, he didn’t even need to knock before the door was flung open and Kailani was in his arms. “Gosh, you smell . . . look . . . feel . . . wonderful, Kay,” he said as he kissed her face, cheeks, neck. “I’ve missed you, Bal. Don’t you ever go ignoring my calls again, you hear me?” as she pointed her finger in his face. He chuckled, scooped her up, and carried her into the house.
Oh, yes, it's Balraj's. In my mind she's a bit flighty and selfish, which leads to bad decisions, but she is all about Balraj.
I've always believed, perhaps unfairly, that to be in show business/acting and so forth you had to be very self absorbed. How could you not be? Kailani's personality, as you've developed it, seems right in keeping with that idea. Not that I think they're not capable of loving someone, it just has to be on their terms. Anyway, kicking the soapbox aside, I'm enjoying the story.
Through the course of Kailani’s pregnancy, things went wonderfully for our couple. They made it a point to talk daily. Balraj was at Kailani’s house every Friday through Sunday. Unfortunately when it was time for the baby’s arrival, Balraj was in a final. So, Kailani had to call upon her manager, Ifran, for help. The very next day, Balraj graduated and moved in with Kailani and their new bundle of joy, Devon. Balraj paced the living room with Devon in his arms. Kailani was fixing supper. “Kay, he’s beautiful. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a little person.” With a chuckle, “Have you never been around children?” Balraj nuzzled Devon, “No, I came from a small family. When my parent’s passed on, I was left in a guardian’s care. He was a loving old gent, but he’s since passed on as well. So, it’s just me.” “There was always my brothers and I. Now I hear there will be not one, but two more. Mom’s pregnant with twins. Dad’s coping well. Though, he started it.” “That still surprises me. I’ve always thought your parents the epitome of what a perfect marriage is.” He walked to the refrigerator and got a bottle for Devon and heated it up. As Kailani continued with supper, she watched Balraj with their son. It all seemed so natural. With a sigh, “I know, I thought that as well. Apparently for a while Dad had a bit of a wondering eye. I think that there’s more to the story though than they’re telling. I don’t want to pry though. Things seem to be going well now. They’re thinking of selling the house and moving to a one floor home. Dad’s concerned about Mom and the stairs, carrying two babies and all.” “Your Dad is one heck of a man, being concerned about those babies when they’re not his.” “Well, he does love Mom. It’ll work out. He’ll treat them as his own; probably even adopt them, unless the father happens around. Mom hasn’t spoken of his presence at all though.” She pulled the salmon out of the oven. “Supper’s ready, Bal. I’ll put Devon to bed.” “No, Kay, you’ve been busy. I’ll do it.” He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek and headed for the bedroom. He snuggled Devon again before placing him in the crib. He walked back out to the kitchen, grabbed himself a plate, and sat across from Kailani. “I’ve been thinking.” “There’s trouble.” He chuckled, “You’re funny. Seriously, I’ve been thinking.” Balraj reached across the table and grabbed Kailani’s hand. “I want to buy some land and build us a home. I know you like it here in the city; so, I’ve already done some research and found some property that would be great. I already have a few layouts in mind.” Smiling, “Balraj, if you think we can afford it, I’d be more than happy to reside in a home you designed for us.” “I have the money. You could stay at home and never have to work again. From my parent’s accident, I’m well off. I thought you knew that.” “Well, you’d mentioned it before, but I don’t want to assume anything.” “I’ll get to work on it right away.” He jumped up from the table, placed his hand under Kailani’s chin and kissed her softly. With a twinkle in his eye, he literally skipped to the computer to find that perfect plot of ground.
Phew! I had to read through all the thread in one go! Kailani is really cute. Balraj seems really protective and sweet. Such a good couple! You write really well. Next instalment, please!
Kailani realized she could get used to this life. She’d been out of touch with Ifran for quite some time. She occasionally did the voice for some little forsaken character here and there. Devon was walking and talking now. He was such a beautiful child. Balraj was a wonderful Dad. He’d been so attentive to both she and Devon, though she knew how tired he’s been. He’s been working for months on the house. She loved the plot of land he found. They would still be Downtown, but Balraj had found a nice quiet street. It would be perfect to raise a family. Balraj was so excited when he’d taken her there. He’d had the plans for the home with him. Balraj showed her by running all over the place where which rooms would be and what views they would have. He made her heart smile. Her thoughts were interrupted when the telephone began ringing. “Hello?” “Hello, Kailani.” “Ifran! How have you been?” “I’ve been fine. How about you and the baby?” “Devon, Balraj, and I have been doing well. Thanks so much for asking.” “That’s great. The reason I called is they’re looking for an actress for a new sitcom pilot that may be coming out in the fall if the pilot does well. It’s not the main character, but it’s a supporting character, one that I think you’d do well with.” “Really?” “I’d like to get together to go over the script that they’ll be expecting you to audition with as soon as possible. Are you available this evening?” “Hmm, Balraj hasn’t returned yet, and it’s too short of notice for a baby sitter. Can we do this tomorrow?” “Time is of the essence, my dear. No later than tomorrow.” “Okay, thanks so much for letting me know about it, Ifran. It’s greatly appreciated.” “No problem. Have a good evening.” “You too.” She squealed when she hung up the phone. Balraj walked in just as she squealed. Chuckling, “What the heck was that?” Kailani ran over to him and flung her arms around his neck. He wrapped his arms around her tiny frame and pulled her close so he could kiss her thoroughly. Pulling his face away so he could look at her, “Now that’s a welcome home. So, what was that sound, squeal, or whatever it was for?” “Ifran called, and I have an audition next week for a supporting character in a pilot for a new show.” At the sound of Ifran’s name, his jaw went rigid. He could hear the excitement in her voice; so, he didn’t want to show what he really thought of the guy. “That’s great, Kay!” He hugged her and lifted her feet off the ground and spun around. “I have some news for you as well.” He placed her feet back upon the floor and held her hands in his. “Oh, yeah?” “The house is finished. We can move in whenever you want. I wanted to take you to dinner tomorrow night to celebrate. Now we have two reasons to celebrate. I called Christian; he said he and Sierra would watch Devon.” “Oh, Bal, that’s fabulous!!” She flung her arms around him again, then she remembering her plans to meet with Ifran let go and stepped back now holding his hands in hers. “Though, I can’t do dinner tomorrow night. I’m meeting with Ifran to go over a script.” Balraj sighed heavily and walked to the fridge for a cold drink. “Can’t that wait another day?” Sounding hurt, “No, Balraj, it can’t. This is my dream.” He turned to her abruptly, “Kay, I know this is your dream. I wouldn’t dream of squashing it for you either.” He took a sip of his soda. “I just really wanted to take you to a nice dinner to celebrate.” “I know, and I love you for always being so sweet. We can move in this weekend. I’ll start packing stuff up. Then once we’re settled, we’ll go to a nice dinner.” “I guess that’ll have to do.” With that he threw his can away and went into the bedroom to check on Devon.
