Disclaimers: The prerequisite disclaimers.

Intellectual Property: The characters are wholly my own. Any similarities drawn between them and any persons, plants, or animals, living and dead, are figments of your imagination. However, some places and products mentioned in the story do exist. No infringement is intended. (Hey, look on the bright side! Free publicity! Yeah!)

Ratings/Language/Violence: R-rated. Generally, the language and violence is mild, as is the sex. However, at risk of spoiling some surprises, the story deals with sensitive issues like overbearing parents, youth violence, rape, and murder.

Sex: Love is expressed between two consenting ladies. If that bothers you, then for the love of God (or a higher being or beings, if any), get help.

Age: If this material is illegal where you live and/or if you are underage then find something else to do.

NOTES: Mickey is NOT the main character. Be patient and you'll meet the two leading heroines in no time at all. Also, this story takes place over about the span of a decade. If you want to see sign language, go to this web site. http://www.bconnex.net/~randys/

If you have any feedback, suggestions, or comments, please let the bard know at sarkel_bard@yahoo.com You are guaranteed a reply if you so wish. Constructive criticism is accepted J

I'd also like to thank everyone who helped. Thanks to Steph, Critic, Ink, and everyone else who has contributed.

Many people have asked me about my posting policy, so here's a rundown. I have a personal policy to post at least once a week, but if I am ahead of schedule or have extra time, I'll post more than once.

A Note: In the story, when Sam (or someone who is signing) murmurs, mumbles or whatever, they are not speaking. The 'screams' 'whispers' and so forth are merely the sign language equivalent.

Author's Note: There is an untitled poem in this part. I do not know who wrote it, but if you can help, please e-mail me so I can give the poet proper credit.

Author's Note: I'd like to thank the wonderful people at Xenaverso for honoring AITF with the Olé award. Check the Xenaverso out at http://www.atenea.easynet.co.uk/xenaverso/fanfic/fanfic_ole.htm

Part 11

Soft rays of sun shone upon the green grass, and a gentle breeze wafted through the air as the undeniable laughter of children filled the Cannizarro backyard. A bunch of rowdy three-, four-, and five-year-olds were scrambling at a variety of activities like arts and crafts, picking on each other, and watching a magic show.

"I need a volunteer!" cried the magician as he surveyed the audience of pre-schoolers.

"Me!" called the same chubby girl who had volunteered her services for the last ten times. "Me! Me! Me!" Without waiting for an answer, the girl took her accustomed place next to the magician. "What I do?"

"Let's have the birthday boy do this last one, ok?" winked the magician. "Allen, come up here!"

The boy's face lit up as he grabbed his stepsister's hand and headed for the stage. Allison watched from the back of the audience with chagrin; her brother had monopolized Sam all day, practically forgetting about the young woman who had organized the party so it would be a success.

He had proudly shown her to all his friends one by one or in small groups, saying: "This is Sammy, my new sister. She's an alien and she plays basketball. She gonna teach me how to play football. And she gives the best 'copter rides! Better than my daddy!"

Sam had nodded awkwardly at the kids, however flattered by her stepbrother's obvious adoration. He kept her firmly at his side throughout the afternoon, pairing up with her for the three-legged races and for water fun.

"Hey, the kid really likes Sam, huh?" commented Joey Yates, the green-eyed girl's 'date' for the shebang. She'd gone out with Joey a few times before, and he was one of the few guys she could tolerate-actually, he was fun to hang out with. He was sweet and good-natured, easy going, with honey blond hair and hazel eyes. He was new to the area, having just moved from New York State in May, and Susan was delirious about him.

Joey casually roped an arm around Allison's waist as she squirmed uncomfortably, hoping Sam wouldn't see the embrace.

The blonde knew that a romantic relationship with her exotic stepsister spelled nothing but trouble, but that didn't mean she needed to flagrantly exhibit her steady stream of boyfriends. In the course of the previous week, she hadn't been home often, going out with friends, working, and the like. Sam, understandably to escape her stepmother, had practically moved in with Paul. The green-eyed young woman sighed, knowing that Sam probably kissed everyone she met; she was just open and uninhibited like that.

Susan beamed happily at the sight of her daughter and Joseph Yates exchanging affections. Joseph's father was a bank president and his mother was a bank president's wife. Returning her attention to the magician, she harrumphed as he put on a rather bland finale.

Allison smiled as Barry wheeled out the huge birthday cake. The treat was three layers high and fed 100 people. Covered with white frosting, it featured a football and the number four. Perhaps now Allen would remember he had another sister.

"Who wants cake?" Allison called cheerfully as she slipped out of Joey's arm. A queue of excited youngsters immediately formed at the cake as the blonde waited for the birthday boy to appear and blow out the candles.

"Hey. Let me help you," Joey offered with a smile, entrenching Allison's hand firmly in his.

"Thanks." The blonde managed a weak grin as her mother snapped picture after picture of the young couple. She felt bad about misleading Joey but with Susan, what other choice did she have, really?

Allen bounced up to the cake proudly, Sam in tow. "Big cake!" he complimented, his eyes widening. He turned to his stepsister. "Like it, Sam? Hold me up so I can blow out the candles!"

The dark-haired girl's smile faded as she realized Allison was giggling and holding hands with some loser guy. She'd seen him at the house a couple times before, always part of the infinite group of teenagers that seemed to live with them. Geez. She stiffened; the blonde didn't have to push her breasts in his face for Gods' sake!

"Fine," Sam answered darkly, her jovial mood quickly disappearing. Why did Allison have to act like nothing had ever happened between them? She joined half-heartedly in the singing and signing of "Happy Birthday."

"I'll help you blow out the candles," Allison offered hopefully but was greeted with a resounding no from her brother.

"Sammy help me!" he yelled gleefully as he extinguished the four small flames.

The blonde drew back, hurt. Ever since Sam had arrived home from military school, her brother's conversation centered around Sam and the infamous Jaykupozon, who had yet to make an appearance. "Like I said, he's shy," Allen had explained, disappointed. "He needs more time."

The blue-eyed young woman took some satisfaction in her stepsister's displeasure. Serves her right. Why doesn't she just lay out a sleeping bag right here and have sex with the loser? Grumpily, Sam accepted a large slice of cake from Joey after Allen had received his.

Allen frowned as his sister laughed with Joey. Al liked Sammy, not Joey. Why didn't Sammy tell her that she liked Al too? On impulse, the birthday boy grabbed his sister's hand, pushing Joey away. "Come sit with me and Sammy." He guided the two older girls to a picnic table teeming with screaming children.

Joey followed, flashing his trademark smile as Allison made room for him. "No!" Allen cried. "Table's full."

Sam threw a disgusted look in the blonde's direction. "Why don't you just sit in his lap?"

"Whoa." Allison narrowed her eyes. "No need to be rude."

The dark-haired girl scoffed as she and her stepbrother left for another table, Allison staring after them in bewilderment. Was Sam jealous? And Allen had deserted the blonde once again. She sighed, hoping the towhead would get used to Sam quickly. She was used to being the center of the boy's life, and didn't appreciate a rival for the child's affections. But a small part of her hoped guiltily that perhaps Sam was jealous, that Sam did want to be with her.

Susan beamed as she waved at the last guest. "That was such an excellent party, Allison Alexandra!" she enthused. "I had no idea that you and Joseph were so close."

The green-eyed girl rolled her eyes at the exaggeration and surveyed the tremendous mess in front of her. Party favors, food crumbs, and various trash littered the Cannizarro grounds, and of course, her mother wouldn't be volunteering to help clean.

"Let's clean up!" Susan chirped as her Beauregard carried picnic tables all by himself. "So strong!" she called to him, batting her eyes but wrinkling her nose in disgust as her masculine stepdaughter did the same. She blew him an air kiss as he left to return the rented equipment.

She set to picking up trash, but a minute later, complained of a sore back. "I'll draft thank-you notes for all the guests," she explained before heading into the house with her son, who was excitedly carrying his new presents. "You and Samantha clean."

The blonde sighed; they had their work cut out for them. She began to pick up around the pool area as the dark-haired girl gathered wet beach/pool towels together for the laundry.

"Your mother's a lazy ass," she said.

Allison smiled. "Allen had fun. He really liked having you here. Did you enjoy yourself?"

Sam shrugged as she tied the top of a garbage bag into a knot. Oh, yes. I had tons of fun watching you drape yourself all over what's his name. "Not bad. Cake was good."

The blonde nodded. "Haven't seen you much this week. How are you doing?"

Like you care. Sam hid a scowl from her stepsister. "You'll be seeing plenty of me when we go to the beach next week." The reminder caused her to grimace. One week with her stepmother in a small condo would be unbearable. She'd tried to get out of the nauseous family vacation to no avail. Barry had not wavered.

"Yeah!" Allison enthused. "That will be fun. What do you want to do there?"

Sam didn't answer; she wasn't in the mood for conversation. Using her hand, she wiped sweat off her forehead. She was getting hotter and hotter and the pool looked inviting. She took her socks and shoes off. "I'm going for a swim," she indicated to Allison and dove into the pool, shorts and shirt and all. She surfaced a few moments later, wet black hair clinging to her neck. Her nipples thrust forward against the tight material of her white shirt and bra. Sam sighed as she treaded water, the cool liquid refreshing her.

The blonde half-smiled at the sultry sight of Sam's unrestrained sexuality. "Water cold?"

"Nah." The blue-eyed girl shook her head. "Come on in. I'll be good."

"Well…" Allison threw a tentative glance at the house and slipped off her sandals. "Okay." Holding her nose, she cannonballed into the pool, rocking the water with a huge splash.

"Wow!" The performance genuinely impressed Sam. "That was decent."

The blonde grinned as she approached her stepsister. "Let's see you do that."

Sam cocked an eyebrow. "Heh. All right. But I don't need to hold my nose like someone I know." She grabbed the edges of the pool and lifted herself out. Positioning Allison, she aimed for a spot exactly four inches to her right and cannonballed, the impact of her body on the water even more forceful than the previous jump.

"Sam!" Allison screamed, jumping out of the way. After her stepsister appeared from under the water, she admonished, "You almost killed me."

Sam grinned mischievously as she dove under the water and grabbed her younger friend's lower legs, pulling the blonde underwater as well. The lower portion of Allison's dress floated up, revealing plenty of treasures. Sam enjoyed the surprise peek, however fleeting and murky. She maintained her strong grip on the blonde as Allison wrestled valiantly, attempting to wriggle out, using her hands to half-heartedly push the stronger Cannizarro away.

After a few seconds of struggle, Sam propelled both herself and her playmate above water so they could get air. Allison gasped for breath as she surfaced, inhaling large amounts of oxygen. As the taller girl breathed, she elevated her firm hold on Allison, moving from her legs to her shoulders.

The blonde snaked her arms around the blue-eyed girl's waist and brought her closer. Their breathing became ragged as Sam felt the intense attraction to her stepsister. She jerked apart, pushing Allison off. "Come on. We've a party to clean up." She stepped out of the pool and closed her eyes, willing the past few minutes to just go away. Don't initiate anything like that again. She's not interested. Sam was almost never scared or tentative, but when matters concerned her stepsister, the brunette was horribly out of character, unable to get to the bottom of the thing in fear of rejection.

The green-eyed girl blew out a heavy breath as Sam casually jumped out of the pool, missing the embrace. During the last few minutes, she felt happier with Sam than she had with Joey all afternoon. I have to think of Allen's best interests though. Allison joined her dark-haired companion in cleaning up the rest of the party. She averted her gaze every time Sam crossed her line of sight, afraid she'd give herself away.

Sam sighed as she stared out the window at the setting sun. Everything was so wrong, even though her room was restored to normalcy. Corny, her baby boy, had been gone for over a week. Allison had a boyfriend. Her father and stepmother continued to be sickeningly in love. Paul and Elizabeth were now officially a couple, and very serious. He had even removed his facial piercings at her request. What was the deal with romance?

In a couple days, the dysfunctional family was taking their first ever vacation together at the beach. Whoopie. In the B.S. (Before Susan) days, Sam and her father would take a few weekends here and there to go on short trips, but Susan Cannizarro had insisted on the beach, and of course, Barry had proclaimed her idea genius. So they were staying in a small 800-foot two-bedroom condo for a week. Sharing a room with Allison would be an interesting experience; Sam just hoped she'd be able to act casual.

The dark-haired girl rose from her chair and reached for a picture that was propped on her desk. The photo was one of the zillions Susan had taken of Allen's fourth birthday party. Jealousy swelled through Sam as she studied the subjects forever captured in the still image; Joey and her green-eyed stepsister were feeding each other birthday cake, and the suitor had impulsively smeared her face with the cake. Allison was laughing as she returned the sentiment.

Sam snapped out of her reverie as her bedroom light flashed excitedly. Allison must be home from a date with Joey, as the married Cannizarros were enrolling Allen in a prestigious school for gifted children. Sam hobbled to the door, opening it limply. Hope Joey isn't here too.

"Hi!" Allison nearly screamed as she beamed at Sam and hugged her quickly. "I have a wonderful surprise for you." Her lively green eyes sparkled animatedly as she smiled, brimming with pleasure. Her older friend would be thrilled.

"What?" Sam kept her face neutral, warding off her stepsister's usually contagious good mood.

Allison grinned. "Why are the lights off? Are you ok?"

The taller girl rolled her eyes. "What do you want?"

"Come here, come here." Allison took Sam's hand in hers, knowing the surprise would instantly erase the scowl off her stepsister's face. She ushered her blue-eyed friend outside to the front yard, their hands still entwined.

"I don't see nothin'," Sam grumbled as she surveyed the semi-dark yard, giving in to human weakness by keeping Allison's hand in hers.

The blonde's brows furrowed as she squeezed Sam's hand and forced herself to break the contact. "Where did he go?" she whispered. She smiled as a small sound reached her ears. "Come on." She replaced her hand in Sam's, the movement occurring naturally, and led her stepsister to the back yard.

Sam's blue eyes widened in shock and astonishment as she stopped in her tracks at the sight before her.

"Whuff!" Corny jogged to greet his mistress with a slight limp, his tail whipping excitedly. A worn tennis ball was firmly clenched in his mouth.

"Oh!" She bent down and threw her arms around the dog, hugging him close. Sitting on the ground, she felt his rough fur for injuries or other trouble spots, but the canine seemed to be fine. She kissed the circular white patch on the top of his golden head and looked up at her stepsister. As Corny's long pink tongue hung out of his mouth, she asked: "Where did you find him?"

Allison joined Sam in the grass, rubbing the dog who was wriggling fervently. "He was here when I got home, acting like nothing had happened. I fed him and gave him some water." The blonde smiled at her stepsister's joy-the huge grin on Sam's exotic face was one she hadn't seen before.

"Thank you." Sam leaned over on her knees, extended her arms, and wrapped her younger friend in a close but brief embrace.

"Why? It's not like I found him." The blonde asked, the corners of her lips still upturned, after Sam ended the squeeze. The brunette was the best hugger Allison knew.

Sam shook her head as she laughed. "I just missed him very much. So glad he's ok." She surveyed the dog critically once again as she pried the ball out of his mouth. "Where could he have gone? I'll take him to the vet tomorrow." She patted the canine affectionately as she stood up.

Corny whined as he detected the sphere in his mistress's hand, and took off running before it was even airborne.

"Gosh. You'd think he was a puppy," Allison complimented.

Sam grinned as she held out a hand. Allison took it and helped herself up. "He'll always be my baby." Her blue eyes shone as the dog returned for another throw. "He's getting old, though."

"Woof!" Corny yelped as he ran off to fetch the second toss.

"Don't think about that," the blonde advised, her emerald eyes shining at Sam's willingness to confide in her.

The dark-haired girl shrugged. "Hard not to." She noticed Allison squinting to understand her in the rapidly falling darkness. "Can you see me?"

Allison nodded her head. "Not for long. Let's sit on the swing and enjoy the nice night."

Sam tilted her head in agreement and threw the ball for Corny a third time before joining Allison on the wooden swing that hung from the porch. The blonde had switched the backyard light on and was watching Sam and the canine with obvious affection.

"Whew." The dark-haired girl grinned as she took a place next to Allison. "He needs to brush his teeth and take a bath."

Allison laughed. "I'll leave those up to you."

Sam smiled as she looked into her friend's face. "Corny's a dear. He loves baths. I usually bathe him when I'm washing Dino."

"Maybe you can run Allen under the hose too. I swear, that boy can be so stubborn sometimes," teased Allison as Corny trotted up to the duo.

Sam handed the tennis ball to her stepsister. "Let's see how you can throw a ball."

"That's not fair!" Allison argued. "It's got dog drool all over it. It won't go far."

"Excuses, excuses." The deaf girl shook her head in mock disappointment.

"Fine," the blonde responded firmly as she used a rag to dry the ball. She drew her right arm back and extended it quickly, sending the orb for a beautiful sail through the night sky.

"Great throw." Sam followed the ball with her eyes as the dog caught it near the edges of the Cannizarro property.

"Looking forward to the beach?" Allison asked as she shifted position, turning to face her friend.

The dark-haired young woman inhaled sharply, registering the unexpected sensation of the blonde's leg settling against her own. Allison's reminding nudge brought Sam back to reality. "Oh! What did you say? I missed that."

The green-eyed girl repeated the question. "I asked if you were looking forward to the beach? I bet you are! Don't you love the beach?"

Sam sighed as she formulated her answer. "In two words, hell no."

Allison blinked, taken by surprise at the forceful reply. "Why not?"

"Oh, please!" The dark-haired girl grimaced, keeping a watchful eye out for Corny, who was lapping water from the pond. "Mosquitoes, sunburn, pale white overweight men wearing those tight suits and acting like they're God or God's gift to women. Plus… one week in that little condo with Susan."

The younger woman pressed her lips together. Sam could be such a pessimist at times, although her point about Susan was wholly valid. "The beach won't be so bad. There will be amusement parks, arcades, games, fun stuff to do."

"Nope." Sam leaned back confidently. "Your mother's the type who will make us broil like lobsters in the sun all day and look nice for the boys. And the rest of the time will be spent shopping."

"Well…" Allison considered the statement. "Perhaps. But I promise you that you'll have fun, ok?"

"Whatever." Sam shook her head, the bad mood returning at the mention of Susan. If only she could touch Allison, hold her, caress her hair under the illuminated night sky. Then the situation with Susan wouldn't even register on the scale. She studied a firefly perched on a nearby slab of wood for a moment before returning her attention to the blonde. "You know I'm not big on togetherness and all that girly crap."

"Yeah." Allison rested her back against the swing, losing contact with the brunette, although they were only inches apart. She wasn't anticipating a fun seven days with her mother, either, but her brother should have a good time playing in the sand and in the water.

After a few minutes, the act of sitting so closely and yet so far away from the blue-eyed girl had its toll on Allison but she couldn't force herself to get up. Just a little touch wouldn't hurt. "So, do you know your constellations?" she asked.

Sam smiled. "Not really. I recognize the Big Dipper, though." She pointed to a faint square of stars in the distance.

"Nope. That's the Little Dipper." The blonde edged fractionally closer to her companion so that they were touching and indicated a second cluster of stars on Sam's side. "That there is the Big Dipper," she lied, hoping that Sam really didn't know her astronomy.

"Oh." The dark-haired girl peered at the stars her friend had just indicated, all too aware of her proximity. Casually, she eased her arm forward until it rested on the top of the wooden swing, right above Allison's shoulders. Should I? Gods knew, she wanted to put her arm around the blonde. She hoped the green-eyed girl couldn't hear her slowed breathing or the rapid beating of her heart.

Allison relaxed against Sam, having found some solace. She just couldn't stay away. Self control. Self control, Allison. Besides, you know Sam isn't genuinely interested. She stood up and stretched. "I'm gonna go in."

Disappointment registered briefly on Sam's face before she had the chance to conceal it. "Sure." She contrived a smile. "Thanks again about Corny. I'm going to stay out here a while longer."

"Oh, Beauie!" Susan shrilled. "This condominium is just so… darling! So perfectly quaint and exquisite!" Tears appeared in her eyes as she slowly walked through the condo, taking in each room. Her vacation home was bigger than her old apartment! She had certainly moved up in life. Indeed, Beauregard was a wonderful man.

She sighed in absolute adoration as she entered the master bedroom. The walls were painted in soft pink and the bed was simply huge-just perfect for baby making. To make matters better, a gorgeous view of the shimmering ocean and the golden sun was right at her window. She would be waking up next to her Beauregard and incredible nature each and every morning. I couldn't think of a better place to create our child, Beauie. She had not brought up the topic of children with her Beauie, for she knew he would much rather appreciate her surprising him at the news that she was pregnant, never mind the fact that he diligently used condoms during sex and made sure she kept up with her birth control pills. She smiled smugly as she fingered her purse straps. The so-called pills were merely placebos. One week without that mongrel and without the horrible reminders of Beauregard's earlier life was all they needed.

Allison grinned as she inhaled the salty ocean air and basked in the sun for a moment. If the drive to the beach was any indicator of how well the vacation in general would fare, the week would be excellent. Her mother had remained relatively quiet in the newly purchased family van, only commenting a few times about maintaining a standard of appearance for the boys and whispering conspirationally in her ear when Barry wasn't around: "Samantha desperately needs help with her fashion and social graces. I can't do it all by myself, Allison Alexandra." But other than a couple brief comments, her mother had been entranced by her Beauregard's driving prowess and astonishing sense of direction. They had flirted for the whole drive, sitting up front and patting each other, whispering sweet nothings, making gaily plans for the week.

Allen had firmly claimed the middle row in the van, resplendent with pails, shovels, rafts, beach balls, and other odds and ends he had excitedly picked out. He was so excited about the trip and had insisted on wearing his swimming trunks in the van. "When are we gonna be there?" he'd asked every five minutes, alternating with: "I wish Jaykupozon coulda have come." Apparently, the alien befriended by the towhead had fallen ill and couldn't make the trip.

Even though this was a family vacation, and the Cannizarro's/Albrecht's first, Barry and Susan had made dozens of plans for just the two of them, which suited the other three members of the party just fine. Sam had been quiet for the ride, but near the end, Allison had engaged her in conversation. "I happened upon this poem when I was surfing the Internet. I don't know who wrote it but… well. Anyway, just wanted to know if that's how you feel." She nervously handed the printout to her stepsister, hoping the brunette wouldn't get angry at what could be interpreted as an intrusion of her privacy.

Sam furrowed her brows and nodded in agreement as she read the untitled poem quickly.

What is it like to be deaf?

People have asked me.

Deaf? Oh, hmmmm, how do I explain that?

Simply, I can't hear.

Noooo, it is much more than that.

It is similar to a goldfish in a bowl.

Always observing things going on.

People talking all the time.

It is being a man on his own island

Among foreigners.

Isolation is not a stranger to me.

Relatives say "hi" and "bye".

But I sit for five hours among them.

Taking great pleasure at amusing babies.

Reading books, resting, helping out with food.

Natural curiosity perks up.

Upon seeing great laughter, crying, people upset.

Inquire only to meet with "never mind",

"Oh, it is not important".

Getting such a summarized statement of a whole story.

Supposed to smile to show the happiness.

Little do they know how truly miserable I am.

People are in control of language usage,

I am at loss and real uncomfortable.

Always feeling like an outsider

Among the hearing people

Even if it was not their intention.

Always assume that I am part of them

By my physical presence, not understanding

The importance of communication.

Facing the choice between the Deaf Camping

Weekend and Family Reunion.

Facing the choice between the family commitment

And Deaf friends,

I must make the choice constantly,

And wonder why I choose Deaf friends???

I get such great pleasure at Deaf Clubs,

Before I realize, it is already 2 am

Whereas I anxiously look at the clock

Every few minutes at the family reunion.

With Deaf people, I am so normal,

Our communication flows back and forth,

Catching up with little trivials, our daily life,

Our frustration in the bigger world,

Seeking the mutual understanding.

Contented smiles, and laughing are musical.

So magical to me

So attuned to each other's feeling.

Truly happiness is so important.

I feel more at home with Deaf people

Of various colors, religions, short or tall,

Than I do among with my own hearing relatives.

And wonder why?

Our language is common.

We understand each other.

Being at a loss of control

Of environment, that is, communication,

People panic and retreat to avoidance,

Deaf people are like the plague.

But Deaf people are still human beings

With dreams, desires and needs

Of belonging, just like everyone else.

Sam sighed thoughtfully as she finished the poem. "Wow. That is exactly how I feel. But-" she held up a warning hand to pre-exempt a reply from her stepsister. "But I do not need anyone to feel sorry for me. Okay?"

"I wasn't going to say anything of the sort!" the blonde insisted. "I just wanted to say, you know… I just didn't realize how out of the loop hearing people are. How stupid and ignorant."

Sam smiled as she returned the paper to her stepsister. "Not all are. I really do appreciate you taking the time to learn sign language just as long as it's not because you pity me."

"Oh, no." Allison shook her head. "Not at all. I don't pity you one bit. I really want us to be friends. Not just because you're my stepsister, but because I think you're really cool. And so does Allen."

The brunette grinned. "We are friends, ok? I'm glad we are friends. And I'm not cool. Mind telling dad to turn up the air conditioner?"

Allison giggled. "You sure have a way with words, Sam." After she relayed Sam's request to Barry and made sure that Allen was still napping soundly, Allison turned again to her older friend. "We'll be there in about an hour."

Sam grimaced. "I don't know if that's good or bad news. So… what plans are they making?"

"I have no idea." The blonde shook her head in mock disgust. "All I can make out is that every other word is Susie-poo or Beauie-poo. Ugh!" But her green eyes shone as she thought about being in love.

Sam shrugged nonchalantly. "Isn't that what you do with Jim, though?"

Allison winced slightly and drew back at the not-so-subtle stab. "You mean Joey?"

"Oh yeah. That guy."

"We're just friends… I don't think it's going to work out." Nervously, Allison twirled a strand of her hair.

"Hmm. Must be why Allen saw the two of you making out last night. And I quote: 'Disgusting! Their tongues were all over each other!' Pretty soon he's gonna be asking about how babies are made."

"Uhhh…. well." The blonde was at a loss for words. She knew she didn't have to justify anything to Sam, but at the same time, she knew she had to. But why couldn't Sam just bring it up and ask about their birthday kiss straight-out? "I told Joey that I'd rather be friends. I'm not ready for a relationship."

"Oh. Whatever. I don't really care. Just trying to make conversation," Sam answered rather agreeably, although she was feeling irritable. "Gonna get some shut eye now, if you don't mind."

Allison watched as Sam drifted off to sleep, wondering what the hell was going on between them. Nary a mention had been made of their intimate moment and they both acted as if nothing was out of the ordinary. Which was good. Because, as Allison reminded herself time and time again, she couldn't have a romantic relationship with Sam. Besides, they were both so young, with their whole lives in front of them. Best not to get tied up at this point.

"I'm so glad you like it, honey-dewie!" Barry exclaimed as he joined his missus on the deck. Putting his arm around her shoulder, he sighed at the expanse of blue that stretched on for forever. There were still a few good hours of sunlight left. "So beautiful. But nowhere near your beauty."

Susan blushed. "You flatter me too much."

"Momma!" Allen careened through the living room and skidded to a halt on the deck. "Can I go swimming now? You said I could. Please?" he beseeched.

Susan was about to snarl angrily. Couldn't the bothersome demon see she was busy with her Beauregard? But then a wonderful plan entered her mind. "Of course, darling. See if your sisters will take you."

"Yay!" The towhead tuned on his heels and ran into the second bedroom that he was sharing with the two older girls. Two twin-sized beds and two drawers adorned the room, and a kiddie cot had been placed to accommodate Allen.

"Done." Sam said firmly as she shut the dresser drawer.

"Done? Done?" Allison glimpsed the sign out of the corner of her eye. She whirled around in astonishment and stared at her taller stepsister, her eyes travelling back to the two suitcases of her clothes she had yet to unpack.

Sam grinned. "I travel light. Only need one drawer for my clothes. I don't even need a whole suitcase for my shoes like someone I know."

Allison nodded mutely and glanced back at her suitcases, duffel bag, make-up bag, and wardrobe bag. She couldn't leave them unpacked. Her mother would get upset. The dark-haired girl grinned at the look of consternation on her companion's face.

The young boy ran up to his sister and tugged on her sleeve. "Hurry up! Momma said Sammy and you're taking me swimming. Hurry!" He opened the suitcases and gathered up as many clothes that would fit in his small arms and dragged himself across the room to the dresser drawers and stuffed the clothes in. He returned to the suitcase for a second trip.

The blonde stopped her brother in mid-step. "Oh honey. Thanks for trying to help but I need to hang them up nicely and fold them. Why don't you and Sam help me?" she said pointedly in sign as Sam pretended to look away and whistle nonchalantly. "Ask Sam to help you fold the clothes in the drawers." She winked at her brother who promptly marched to his stepsister.

"Sammy. Fold clothes now. Me wanna go swimming." He took her hand and pulled the tall girl across the room to the drawers and thrust a pair of underwear in her hands. "I ain't touching that." He reached in the drawer and folded a pair of shorts.

Sam grinned at the item rammed in her hands and held the panties at arm's length. She examined them thoroughly. They were goody-two-shoes underwear: flowered briefs against a white background and likely designed for old ladies. The brunette chuckled as Allison caught sight of Sam's possession. Her fair skin flooded immediately with scarlet and her green eyes widened in horror.

"Interesting." Sam turned to her stepsister. "Very, very interesting. Any skid marks? Stains? Hmm. Let's have a look." Exaggeratedly, she held the briefs up to the light as she investigated for spots.

"No!" Allison shrieked in absolute mortification. She dashed to the offending undergarment but Sam all too happily taunted Allison by keeping the object in dispute out of the green-eyed girl's reach. She jumped up and down frantically, crying: "Give it back! Give it back!"

Sam giggled as she continued to evade her stepsister. The brunette faked right, then went left out of the room, and ran down the hallway, Allison yapping at her heels. Allen trailed the two older girls, yelling: "Get her, Al! Get Sammy!"

A few minutes later, Sam found a secure hiding spot in a staircase nook. The blonde was due to race by any minute now, and she'd get a scare when Sam leaped at her. The older girl waited a few moments, trying to stay as quiet as possible. The task was wasn't easy, as she had to control her panting. Allison was in good shape and had nearly tackled Sam twice. She waited a few minutes more but Allison didn't appear. Hmm. What would I do in her shoes? Sam pondered for a moment, then darted from her hiding spot like a bat from hell. Gods! She better not have!

Allison had.

When Sam appeared in the doorway of their room cautiously, her stepsister was canvassing a pair of the brunette's own unmentionables, including her boxers. Allen was carefully lining up his sister's shoes in her closet. Allison chortled at something and looked up, meeting Sam's eyes. "Hey there. Looky what I've found."

Sam attempted to act indifferent. "Ain't nothin' to see." She shrugged.

The blonde winked. "Sure, sure. I learn more about you every day."

"Right." Sam nodded slowly. "Well, you should be so lucky. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone what I've discovered on your undies."

Allison shook her head in mock confusion. "They're brand-new, Sam. Nothing to see. And you know it!" She stood up smugly.

"Give me that!" Sam snarled as she grabbed her undergarments from Allison.

"Hey, hey. It's ok. I was just teasing. There's nothing there. Really. Maybe," the blonde winked. "Finally, I get to see you blush."

Sam growled, obviously annoyed that the blonde had one-upped her. "You're asking for it." She waggled a finger in Allison's face. "I'm gonna get you back."

"Ooohhh. I am so scared!" Allison pretended to shake in fear.

"Bitch. You are a bitch, you know that?" Sam half-smiled as she teased her stepsister. "Start being scared now." Without warning, she knocked Allison onto a twin bed and tickled her unmercilessly.

"No! Stop! Stop!" Allison screamed through fits of uncontrollable laughter as her limbs flailed in vain.

"What is that racket!" Susan shrilled as she stormed into the room and shoved her stepdaughter off her lithe blonde daughter. "Honestly! You would think a pack of wolves raised the two of you. Even Allen behaves better. Stop that giggling, Allison Alexandra!"

Allison looked into her mother's hateful gray eyes but knew not to challenge her.

"They were just playing, momma." Allen tried to help.

Susan whirled to face her son. "Oh! You uncouth little-"

"Hey. What's going on?" Barry joined the scene affably. "What did I miss?"

"Nothing." Susan was the first to explain. "They were just being a bit too loud for my taste. Come, let's finish unpacking." She took her strong stud of a man's arm and led him into their love chamber.

Sam rubbed her sore spot gingerly as she rolled off the bed. Her stepmother had practically dug her spindly flaming red nails into her shoulder. "She should try to have fun sometime. She might actually like it."

Allison sighed, her good mood evaporating. "Ohh…" She shook her head as Allen climbed into her lap.

"Don't be sad. We go swimming, ok?" He peered at her questioningly.

She smiled. "Sure. Ok. Let's finish unpacking."

After a few minutes of solid teamwork, the trio had unpacked all of Allison's things. The blonde was glad for their help but returning home would be a hassle. Susan would buy her even more clothes and forget that they had already packed the van to the hilt on the way down to the beach. Allison would end up holding a suitcase or two in her lap. She shook her head and indicated that they could leave. "Let's go."

Before she could take one step, the mini-tornado had already beat them to the front door and was tugging at it and yelling. "Swim. Swim. Swim. Come. Come. Come." He chewed his lower lip as Allison took forever to get the bag with the lotions and towels. Who needed towels?

Susan closed her eyes and rubbed her temples, hearing her son's excited shrills from the next room. The brat was giving her a headache. Thank goodness the girls were getting rid of him. She opened her eyes and slid up to her Beauregard, ready to implement her plan, Bun in Oven. Her day was totally ruined when she heard her hunk o' loving speak.

Barry beamed. "We need to get pictures of them together. Let's go. I've gotten our things together for the beach. Books, camera, sun block, glasses, beer for me, tea for you. Anything else? Yup, that's it." He hefted up a huge ice cooler over his shoulder and a bag. "Pooie- get the little bag with the towels will you?"

A look of shock crossed Susan's birdlike features as she realized her plan was going down the toilet. "Oh Beauie," she whined. "We have all week! I'd like to rest after that horrendous drive here. My energy is sooo drained!" She leant in to whisper in her hunky man's ear. "Don't you want to get some time in alone?" She wiggled her eyes suggestively.

The big man shrugged. He'd never thought he would meet a woman who cared more about sex than he did. Yep, Susan was cool. "There'll be plenty of time for that later. It's the first day of our family vacation. I want to spend it with the whole family. Now, let's go." He headed for the door while Susan remained rooted where she stood.

Men! Honestly, couldn't he get a hint? "Beauregard. I need to refresh myself. I'll see you outside, ok darling?"

Barry shrugged. The cooler was getting damn heavy and he couldn't stand there forever. "Ok, whatever you say, Sugar Sue."

After Barry left, Susan fumed as she dug around in her suitcase for the skimpiest bikini she owned. She'd parade around in front of her cantaloupe baby making machine with her breasts hanging out copiously and wiggling her ass at him. He would probably take her right there! She'd have to think of something to get the children out of the condo for the evening. They could take Allen midnight mini-golfing. Who cared how much it cost?

"This is going to be a blast!" Allison enthused as she led her brother and stepsister across the street for a few friendly games of mini-golf. "I haven't played in, what... two years. Wow. And the weather is so perfect. Don't you just love the fresh sea air, Sam?"

Sam nodded grimly as Allison babbled on. Susan and her father had asked for some "private" time after Allen's fun wading in the ocean. The fussy redhead had suggested that the trio play some golf across the street. "After all, nothing else is within walking distance!" she explained as she discreetly eyed Beauie's manhood.

Sam was glad to get away from Susan, but was scowling about the fact that she was a horrendous, terrible, lousy golfer. Hell, even the kid could probably beat her. But of course, she wouldn't let on. Especially after her stepsister had gotten the best of Sam earlier that day. Two times, especially in the same day, just would not do.

"I am so glad there's not a lot of people here," Allison said as the small group walked toward the kiosk where they would get their putters and score cards. "Sam, did you know that I won the Arkansas Mini-Golf playoffs, junior girls' division, when I was 11? It wasn't even close! I beat girls three years older than I."

Sam nodded indifferently. "Good for you. I don't think I can play tonight... My arm hurts." Her planar face contorted in mock pain as she extended her elbow. "Cramps from the van ride," she explained.

"Yep." Allison smiled. "Sure. You're playing, no arguments."

Sam sighed as her stepsister talked with the guy manning the kiosk. She wouldn't subject herself to such humiliation, being beaten by a four-year-old kid and a giggly teenager.

"Come on, let's practice!" Allison cried gleefully as she followed her hyperactive brother to the practice green. Sam watched in horror as the three-foot-tall boy whacked the ball for a hole in one.

"Cool!" Allen's green eyes widened as the blue golf ball whirpooled into the hole. "Did ya see that Sammy? Maybe I can win a prize like Al did."

"That was great." Sam smiled with bravado. "Alli... got a minute?"

"Sure." The blonde furrowed her eyebrows at the unusual request. "What is it?"

"My arm doesn't hurt. It's fine. I just thought, well... I didn't want you or Allen to embarrass yourselves. After all, I am quite the golfer." She grinned confidently.

"Is that right?" The green-eyed young woman nodded slowly, wondering why Sam was trying to avoid the game. Was it possible that she didn't actually excel in everything? "Thank you for caring so much. Your concern is actually very touching," she teased, "but we'll take our chances. Right, Allen?" The tot bobbed his head eagerly, not at all tired despite the late hour. He scampered onto the first green, eager to begin playing.

"Well," Sam sighed. "Don't say I didn't warn you. I don't want to hear you whine about how bad I pelted your ass."

Allison smirked. "Whatever you say, Sam."

"Sam go first!" Allen offered.

"Great." Sam grinned hugely to show she wasn't in the least bit intimidated. She bent over and carefully positioned her neon yellow ball. She stood up and wrapped her hands around the upper part of the putter.

It was all Allison could do not to burst out laughing as her stepsister struck the ball awkwardly. Her posture gave the facade away; Sam obviously had no expertise in the area of mini-golf.

The dark-haired girl sneered as the ball slowly wound its way around a rock and dropped for a hole-in-one. "What did I tell you, huh?" She crossed her arms knowingly. She was safe for now.

Allen played next, managing to get his ball in the hole after only three tries. Allison got off to a rocky start, tying Allen. On the second green, Sam, her confidence bolstered by her excellent start, hit the golf ball like a true maestro would. The sphere ambled towards the hole, stopping a foot away. The Albrecht blondes took their turns, both achieving successes on the first attempt. On her second try, and her third try, and her fourth try, and her fifth try, Sam's ball was treated to the scenic view of green number two as it toured every square inch, resistant to move on to number three. On the sixth attempt, Sam grimaced in chagrin as her ball headed furiously for a stream and promptly swam down river. Now, how would she get out of that? But more importantly...

Allison grinned. "Wow. I had no idea you were so good. You should turn pro."

"Ha. Ha. Ha. Very funny." Sam drew out her response. "I'm just being a good sportsman. I thought I'd level the playing field, give you and Allen a head start, so to speak. From now on, it gets serious."

The blonde giggled. "Oh, Sam, just admit you suck."

"What?" Sam blinked. "That is so not true! You just wait and see who wins, Miss Arkansas Redneck Golfer!"

"I was just ribbing you, Sam," the younger woman chided gently. "Come on, let's get your ball."

An hour later, the trio arrived to the second to last hole. Sam was frantically trying to devise an excuse as to why she was trailing her stepbrother by 15 points and her stepsister by 20. She had already used the 'It was the wind' or the 'A bug got in my eye' excuses. And the hearie had to rub it in her face! Allen had even offered to let her win.

Sam was in a thoroughly toxic mood as she lined up the ball for green seventeen. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught her stepsister frowning at her co-golfer's posture. "Fine!" Sam threw her hands up in frustration. "Miss I'm so smug, we're going bowling tomorrow. Let's see how you feel then! Who'll be taunting whom then?" she growled. "I'll have you know that my average is 250."

Allison was nonplussed. "Only 250? Hmm..." She grinned as Sam mewled in anguish and slumped against her putter. "Sam! Sam! I was kidding. Hey..." The green-eyed girl took Sam's stick in her own hands. "I could help you. Show you how to hit the ball right. But of course, I know you don't need it. After all, you are quite the golfer."

Sam glowered at her stepsister but was unable to formulate a retort, as Allison's charming smile caught her unawares. "Come on. Let's just have fun. We're just playing, ok? Please?" she asked. "I won't tell anyone, I promise."

The brunette sighed and rolled her eyes. "Ok, ok. But we're still going bowling tomorrow. So, what do I do?"

Allison smiled. "You're funny." At Sam's scowl, the blonde modified her statement. "You're funny in a totally non-funny way that makes you not in the least bit funny."

The taller Cannizarro laughed. "I'm surprised you've put up with me this long, actually."

The blonde grinned as she placed Sam's putter back in her hands. "I should get a prize, you think?"

"I'm not that bad!" Sam grumbled as she looked into Allison's eyes. "Am I?"

"No," the younger woman said gently. She stepped back quickly as she realized she hadn't heard from Allen in the last few minutes. "Where did Allen go?" She craned her neck but could not find her brother.

"He's right there." Sam placed her hands on Allison's shoulder and directed her line of sight towards a bench. The tot sat there, drooped. He was fast asleep. "He's worn out. It's been a long day."

Allison smiled as she studied the sleeping boy and turned to face Sam. "He's so cute. But it's only the first game!"

"He's a good kid." Sam nodded in agreement. "We better get moving; that group is going to overtake us soon."

"We'll let them play through. I'll show you how to stand when you're putting," Allison proposed.

Sam shrugged. "Fine by me." She wasn't tired at all, and being humiliated at golf by her stepsister, albeit her gorgeous stepsister, certainly was better than being back at the claustrophobic condo with her witch of a stepmother.

After the approaching group of elderly citizens played through, Allison commanded Sam back to the front of the green and demonstrated for her stepsister how to stand.

"Uh-uh." Sam shook her head, not understanding the difference. "What are you doing that I'm not doing?"

"See, you need to hold your putter parallel to your right leg. Like this." Allison showed Sam once again. "But your main problem is your swing and follow through."

"Of course." Sam's white teeth gleamed as she smiled. "That explains it. Thanks for the tip."

"Don't be sarcastic!" The blonde declared. "I'm just trying to help. Come on. Stand the way you normally would."

After Sam assumed her pose, Allison surveyed her critically. "Now, line up the putter with your right leg. And bring up your elbow. Like this." The shorter girl delicately elevated the brunette's elbow a few inches. "Much better. Now, your follow through should be like this. Keep your eyes on the ball as the putter comes into contact with it. Then make sure you keep the putter straight; don't let it curve."

"Hmm." Sam frowned as she practiced.

"You've almost got it!" Allison proclaimed jubilantly. "Just one more thing... Line up your knuckles like you would a baseball bat and don't grip the putter so hard." She sidestepped the ball and stood behind Sam. She reached around Sam's waist and placed her hands on her stepsister's. Gently, she pried Sam's hands away from the putter and took them in her own, her arms still encircling Sam's waist. After a moment of untangling the brunette's slightly shaking fingers, the blonde guided them back to the putter for a looser grip. She placed her hands firmly on Sam's hips, adjusting their position. With loath, she broke the contact; she needed to face Sam to sign to her.

"All looks good. Just do what I showed you... why are your hands shaking?"

Sam's eyes widened as her heartbeat picked up even more. She was used to being the "pursuer," the teaser, and not being in charge unnerved her somewhat. She liked predictability, liked knowing what would happen next. "I didn't realize they were," She offered meekly. "Guess I need some more caffeine." Despite Allison's recent heroic efforts to enlighten her older friend in the game of mini-golf, Sam's game plunged in the next two holes. All she could think about were Allison's arms around her waist and on her hands. Get a grip!

They called it quits after the first game, Allison beaming that she still had the golden touch. Sam carried Allen, still tuckered out, in her arms as they headed back to the condo. All was quiet as they entered; Barry and Susan must have worn themselves out. Allison tiptoed into the second bedroom and flicked on a lamp. The dim glow cast across the room afforded just enough light for a sign language conversation.

Sam put Allen to bed, on the cot between her and Allison's beds. After Sam changed into boxers and a t-shirt in the bathroom, she rejoined Allison in their room. "Remember," she told her stepsister, "not a word that Allen beat me even though he was asleep for the last two rounds."

Allison grinned. "Scout's honor."

Sam surveyed the green-eyed young woman's costume critically. "I remember that garish do from spring break. Trying to scare me or what?"

The blonde rolled her eyes. "If I really wanted to scare you, I'd just stop talking."

"Scare me?" Sam shook her head. "Nah, that would make my day." She winked. "I'm kidding, of course. You've grown on me." And I can't wait to beat you at bowling tomorrow.

"You tired?" Allison asked.

"Not at all." Sam sighed. "Come on, let's go watch a movie in the living room." If you want to be in charge, nothing's stopping you. Allison HAD to be interested in her; how else could she explain the little things here and there, and of course, the kiss? Sam just hoped that her stepsister wasn't 'experimenting.' She would make sure of that if anything ever happened between the two of them. More and more, Allison was invading her thoughts; images of her innocent and charming smile, her friendly green eyes, her touches, her teasing, her with other people… Sam shook her head. They needed to set matters straight, no pun intended, for once and for all. "Let's go sit on the balcony," she suggested.

"Good idea," agreed Allison. The ocean air was salty and clean, and the moon shone brilliantly against the black cloudless sky. "The ocean's quiet tonight," Allison mentioned as she leaned against the white railing. "It's just lapping on the shore."

"Really beautiful out here, isn't it?" replied Sam meditatively. "I hate vacationing at the beach, but it's pretty. So pristine, especially at night."

"We should go for a walk on the beach while we're here this week. I've never been to the ocean before, did you know that? That's why Allen is so excited," said Allison.

"Wow. Never been to the beach before, huh?" Sam mused as she moved closer to her stepsister. "How do you like it?"

Allison laughed. "It's not bad. Very hot though, during the daytime. At least it was today. Ask me again when we leave. Allen's really looking forward to the amusement park and the arcades and playing in the water, building sand castles."

"So am I. The amusement park is fun. Look… let's not talk about Allen ok?"

"Sorry." Allison shrunk back. "Do I talk about him too much?"

"No, no." The brunette grinned. "He's a great kid, thanks to you. Certainly not because of your mother. Let's talk about you. So, you were Miss Arkansas golfer. Was that your first try or..."

Allison blushed with pride as she recalled the events of years past. "I was in this summer camp and one of the counselors noticed my skill in mini-golf. I know, big honor, right? Anyway, she developed my talent and on a whim, we decided it'd be fun for me to enter the contest. First year, when I was 10, I got second place. The next year, I won first. I was only 11, the youngest in the tournament."

"That's good." Sam was serious. "Why didn't you shoot for a repeat championship?"

Allison shrugged. "I don't know. Things happened. Life happened... But..." the corners of her mouth curved upward mischievously. "Really want to know why?"

"Yes, I do." Sam returned the silly smile. Gods, how she loved being with Allison. "What's the deal?"

"I didn't enter a third year because I was busy practicing for the bowling tournament. When I was 12, I won Miss Arkansas Bowler," Allison said with a straight face.

Sam's blue eyes widened momentarily but she recovered admirably. "You're just trying to psych me out, Alli. I'm not buying it."

"We'll just find out tomorrow, won't we?" the blonde challenged as she sat on the balcony bench.

"Umm... You know what?" Sam smiled. "All of the sudden my arm hurts again." She rubbed her elbow painfully and joined her stepsister on the bench.

Allison hit the brunette playfully on the shoulder. "Yeow!" Sam cried. "Trying to make it worse?"

"I'm very sorry," pouted the green-eyed girl, the sea air affecting her rational senses. "Here, let me kiss it and make it all better." She puckered her lips and brushed them against Sam's smooth shoulder. "Feel better now?" She looked into her stepsister's mysterious blue eyes.

"Yes." Sam swallowed. "Much." Now is the time! It was the perfect opportunity to see where she and Allison stood with each other. For the first time in her life, Samantha Cannizarro froze, unsure of herself and what to do next. Jumbled thoughts and emotions streamed through her brain and her body, each clamoring to be heard or addressed. She took a moment to collect her composure, but it was a moment too much.

Allison laid her head on Sam's shoulder, suddenly exhausted. She tucked her feet under her legs. She put her arm on Sam's lap and around her waist. She closed her eyes, relaxed by Sam's steady heartbeat and her regular breathing.

Shit. Shit. Sam's heart was racing like a rabbit's and her muscles, her breathing, everything, was tense. She must know I'm a bundle of nerves. Sam thought frantically; what should she do next? Gradually, she realized that Allison had nodded off and slowly, she began to stroke her stepsister's lustrous hair. The moonlight illuminated each and every single strawberry blond strand. Sam continued for a few minutes, her body softening as she closed her eyes as well. For the first time in as long as she could remember, with Allison curled up next to her, she felt completely at peace.

But she knew it wouldn't last long… or maybe it would.

As always, e-mails are welcome at sarkel_bard@yahoo.com