Play for Me

by Lois Kasznia

  Upstairs, Sam and Ian were making love passionately more so because of the situation. They both laughed at the frantic but intense pace of their lovemaking. Ian heard the patio doors open and he whispered to Sam. “I don’t think they miss us, but we’ve been gone for about ten minutes. I think we better find our way down.”

  “Hmm,” murmured Sam, not willing to let Ian go. “Why don’t we go back to my house and let the three of them duke it out here?”

  “I don’t think that’s going to happen. I know Jordan wants to talk to you, and I think your friend could use your help. Those two men are after her and she’s probably scared out of her wits.” Ian unwillingly left Sam’s embrace. “Did I ever tell you how I love the feel of your lips against mine?” Ian nuzzled Sam’s neck and kissed her pulse.

  “Hmm,” purred Sam. “You feel so good.” She lay there contentedly. “But you’re right,” admitted Sam. She got dressed slowly while Ian watched. “When can we be together again?”

  “Sam, we will. Don’t worry.” Ian kissed her soundly. “Now, let’s go join our guests.” They walked downstairs nonchalantly and entered the patio.

  “Sam? Ian? You done in the kitchen?” asked Jordan.

  “Pretty much,” said Ian dismissively. “What’s going on here?”

  “Bryce is taking me on his yacht tomorrow,” said Deb with a smile on her face. “Jordan said he needed to talk you.”

  “Oh, that’s nice,” said Sam, not liking the Bryce date. Jordan should be with Deb, not Bryce.

  “But Deb is going out to dinner with me tomorrow night,” said Jordan. “That is, after we talk.”

  “Suppose I don’t bring her back,” suggested Bryce.

  “Stop it, you two! Jeesh!” Sam stood up between the two men. “Deb is my guest, too. Bryce, you bring her back for dinner with Jordan. Then she’s mine all day Wednesday.”

  “Did anyone remind you how bossy you are?” grumbled Jordan.

  “Learned it from the best,” said Sam smugly.

  “I think it’s time for some music,” suggested Ian to get the group back on track. “Sam, where is your guitar?”

  “In the car.” She rose up to get it but Ian sat her back down. “I’ll get it.” He left and both Deb and Sam retreated to the bathroom.

  “How are you doing, Deb?” asked Sam, concerned.

  “I can’t believe they’re fighting over me,” exclaimed Deb. “What is this about? It’s like a pissing contest or something.”

  “Who do you really want?” asked Sam curious to see how Deb would respond.

  “You know it’s Jordan. Yes, I’m flattered about Bryce, but I don’t want to be the rebound woman.”

  “Then Jordan it is. Use Bryce to make Jordan jealous or to make him at least make a move. Look, he’s taking you to dinner.”

  “I know, but I’m kind of apprehensive about being with Bryce on a yacht.” Deb made a face.

  “That’s why we have cell phones,” said Sam. “He gets out of line, call Jordan or better yet me. I’ll sic Ian on him.”

  “I never thought about that,” laughed Deb.

  “As a matter of fact, I’ll have Ian talk to him tonight.” Sam smiled at her friend. “Really, it will be fine.”

  They walked out of the bathroom and back into the family room. Jordan had his guitar out and Bryce was warming up his vocals.

  “This reminds me of old times,” said Deb to Ian. “Jordan and Sam would be practicing and I’d just be hanging around listening to them.”

  “But you got my voice now,” said Bryce with a charming smile.

  After a brief discussion, Jordan led the trio into one of Bryce’s songs and Sam followed suit. They played for a good two hours amidst laughter and goofing off. Ian and Deb were in stitches and had a great talk about Sam growing up. Finally at two in the morning, the group broke up.

  “Maybe we should form our own band,” suggested Bryce. “We were pretty good together.”

  “I’ve got too many commitments,” said Jordan with a shake of his head.

  “I don’t think I’m ready yet, either,” commented Sam as she walked up to Ian and he put his arm around her shoulder. “We better get going. Ian, thanks for a wonderful meal.” Sam kissed him on the lips lightly.

  “I’ve got to see where you live, Sam. I have to know where I’m picking up Deb tomorrow,” said Bryce.

  “Sure, just follow me.” Sam pulled Ian aside while the others walked out the door to her car. “Say something to Bryce. Deb is kind of scared of him about the yacht ride. You know, behave?”

  “I’ll talk to him. Don’t worry. I’m going to miss you,” sighed Ian, running his hands through her hair. He held her face and kissed her passionately.

  “That is so sweet, Ian.” Sam kissed him again. “Even though we rocked each other’s world hours ago, I’ll still miss you.” Eventually, Sam left to join the others.

  Chapter Eighteen

  Bryce came for Deb around noon while Jordan slept. The three of them had talked long into the night about everything. Sam felt really pleased how Jordan had warmed up to Deb. They couldn’t stop talking with each other and the stars in their eyes were unmistakable. It seemed to be a good sign and she prayed Ian had had a talk with Bryce.

  “Did Deb leave?” asked Jordan as he entered the kitchen.

  “Good morning, sleepyhead,” laughed Sam. “Yup. They left about an hour ago.”

  “If he so much as touches her, I’ll kill him. You know, she’s at his mercy on the yacht. She should never have accepted his offer.” Jordan opened the fridge and poured a glass of orange juice.

  “Jealous, are we?” asked Sam knowing better.

  “Smart ass,” sneered Jordan and sat down at the table. “What are you making me for breakfast?”

  “Nothing, after that remark.” Sam peered back down at her laptop.

  “Sorry. Just a little cranky. What are you working on?” Jordan moved his chair to get a better look.

  “Jett’s email. Some pretty hot stuff. I don’t think he’d like it if I showed you, though.” Sam minimized the screen.

  “Nothing I haven’t heard before. Really, I’m starving, Sam. What are your plans? I’ll buy lunch for you.” As on cue, Jordan’s stomach rumbled.

  “It’s okay. I’ll make some eggs, hash browns, bacon and toast for you. Just the way you like it.” Sam got up from the table to prepare breakfast for Jordan.

  “You and I need to talk,” said Jordan seriously. “What’s going on with you and Ian? All this kissing and hugging is making me sick. Do you really like him?”

  “Of course I like him,” said Sam strongly. “Look, I’ve been around enough jerks to know when a guy is a really nice guy and Ian has passed all of my tests.” Sam put down the spatula and peered over the table at Jordan. “Don’t you want me to be happy?”

  “No, it’s not that.” Jordan sat forward peering intently at Sam. “I just don’t want you to get hurt. Look, I know this is old news, but what happens when you go back to California? I know Ian hates living there. What’s going on with his Navy Seal business? Is he still active or what?”

  “I don’t know,” cried Sam as she stood up and started pacing around the kitchen, fiddling with the eggs and bacon. “Don’t you think I’ve thought this through? I’m just taking it one day at a time, Jordan. I mean, look at me. My whole life has been turned upside down with this job. Jett’s house gets done and I go back to California. Maybe I want more than that. There’re all sorts of doors opening and I’m confused which one to enter.” Sam placed the food in front of Jordan and sat down with her chin in her hands.

  “Ian said you’ve been writing music. How come I have to hear this from a stranger rather than my little sister telling me? What’s this about Drew?” Jordan fired questions at Sam.

  “Believe it or not, I had planned to tell you, big brother. When have we spent quality time with each other? This is the first time in a while. Normally, you call me between flights or when you come home to Chicago, I watch y
ou play.” Sam started pacing again.

  “Well, can I at least hear some of your music?” asked Jordan.

  “Sure.” Sam stopped pacing long enough to put her hand on Jordan’s shoulder. “See? That’s the other thing I was toying with, my work. Maybe I could become a known songwriter.”

  “What kind of stuff are you writing?” asked Jordan between mouthfuls.

  “Romantic ballads. Could be rock or country,” answered Sam.

  “As soon as I’m done eating, I want to hear them.”

  “On CD or do you want me to perform them?” asked Sam.

  “I’ll let you know,” answered Jordan. “Play one first and then I’ll see about listening to the CD.”

  “CDs” corrected Sam.

  “Now onto to Drew. Why didn’t you tell me about him?” demanded Jordan.

  “Jordan, it just happened a week ago. You know I can handle guys like him. I’m your sister, remember? You taught me to be tough.” Sam glared at her brother, her arms crossed.

  “I’m still going to say something to that creep.” Jordan pushed the empty plate away.

  “Fine by me.” Sam walked over to the piano and played a few notes and turned to Jordan. “You ready?”

  “Yes.” Jordan reached for his cup of coffee and settled on the couch.

  Sam mentally prepared for the song and in her contralto voice began.

  I don’t know where I’m going, but I know where I’ve been.

  I always say to hear God laugh, tell him your plans.

  I just need to follow, follow my heart.

  I never thought I’d find love, but then came you. You’re everything I’ve ever dreamed of, ever so true.

  The intensity of my feelings has my heart reeling.

  I just need to follow, follow my heart.

  I’m afraid to tell you I love you, afraid you you’ll run away.

  It’s a risk one must take in love, a risk that I must play.

  I just need to follow, follow my heart.

  So, my darling love, this is what I must say.

  I love you now and forever, this will never change.

  No matter what happens to us, no matter how strange.

  I’m here for you love.

  I just need to follow, follow my heart

  Sam ended the song, lifted her head and smiled at Jordan. “Well?”

  “A little sappy, but it’s good,” commented Jordan. “You know, with a guitar, drums and maybe some more vocals, I think it’s a winner. And I’m not just saying that because you’re my little sister.”

  “Really?” Sam couldn’t contain her enthusiasm and started to jump up and down. “You think it would sell?”

  “I know just the person who wants to hear it,” said Jordan with a smile. “Bring it on, baby. Let’s hear some more.”

  “It’s going to be a long concert,” warned Sam and she settled in and started to play.

  “Before you start, do you have Deb’s cell so you can call to check up on her?” asked Jordan.

  “Jordan, she left over two hours ago.” Sam glared at her brother. “Your mind is in the gutter, bro.”

  “I know what’s on Bryce’s mind and if he lays a hand on her…”

  “Relax. I think Deb can take care of herself. Besides, I told her to call me if there were any problems.”

  “Can we rent a boat to follow them?” asked Jordan seriously.

  “What? You want to follow her?” asked Sam, totally blown away. “I’d be pretty pissed off if a guy followed me while on a date. Jordan, you are being ridiculous.”

  “Yeah, I guess I am.” Jordan shook his head. “Go on. Play for me.” He nestled back into the couch.

  “Thank you very much,” said Sam sarcastically. She turned back to the piano and played another song.

  “Do that one again.” Jordan reached for his guitar, warmed up and played along with Sam. “See how much better it sounds with a guitar. Sam, this is some pretty damn good stuff. I’m impressed.”

  “Thanks!” Sam blushed at the compliment from her brother. Compliments from him were few and far between.

  “Let’s keep going. You play, I’ll listen and we can work it out.” Jordan strummed the guitar. “Oh by the way, can I borrow your car to take Deb out to dinner? Also, where should I take her?”

  “You have a one track mind,” said Sam, shaking her head. Jordan just shrugged.

  ****

  “Ian? It’s Sam. How are you?” After three hours of playing, Jordan had jumped in the shower, preparing for his date with Deb.

  “Hey, Sam. I wondered when you were going to call. I didn’t know how late you guys would stay up and didn’t want to disturb you. What’s going on?”

  “Couple of things,” said Sam. “First off, did you have the talk with Bryce?”

  “Yeah, I did. I think he’s kind of insulted that I thought he’d do something like that. I told him Deb is your friend and how would it look if he tried something foolish.”

  “I appreciate it. Like me, this is a whole new ball game for Deb,” explained Sam. “She’s known Jordan her whole life and he’ll always be Jordan. Bryce, well, he’s a rock star.”

  “Hey, I understand, too. What else?” Ian knew something else had been on Sam’s mind that’s why they got along so well.

  “Jordan is really jealous. He didn’t get up when Bryce picked her up, which is a good thing.”

  “I think so, too. Some men need to be bonked on the head and even though he is your brother, this will do him some good.” Ian chuckled. “Look at all the tests you put me through.”

  “I know and you passed with flying colors. But get this, he wants me to call her to see how she is. He also wanted to rent a boat and follow them around,” laughed Sam.

  “He is jealous,” snickered Ian.

  “Yeah, I know. This is getting interesting. Where should he take her for dinner?”

  “I’ll call him and let him know,” said Ian. “Anything else?”

  “Jordan really liked my music,” said Sam enthusiastically. “He played along with my songs and thinks he can get them sold.”

  “I told you, you were good!” exclaimed Ian proudly, and then he had a thought. “Should you run this by Jett?”

  “Jett!” Sam came back down to earth quickly. “That’s right. He might get upset about it. Ian, I never thought about it.”

  “Yeah, he might want to hear some of your stuff first.” Ian thought of other legal implications. “Tell you what? With Deb and Jordan going out to dinner, what do you want to do this evening?”

  “Anything which involves you,” said Sam.

  “Since I made dinner last night, how about we take advantage of your house while the kids are gone?”

  “What if things get romantic for them?” asked Sam. “Suppose I let them have the house alone tonight?”

  “I can live with that,” said Ian with a smile. “I’ll pick you and Cracker up around six since you won’t have a car.”

  “It’s a date,” agreed Sam.

  “I can’t wait,” said Ian huskily.

  Sam booted up her laptop and got to work on Jett’s emails. She had been so engrossed with work, she hardly heard the phone ring.

  “Sam?” Deb sounded relieved to hear Sam’s voice.

  “Deb, are you okay?” asked Sam worriedly.

  “I’m fine. Bryce had to take a call from his agent so I thought I’d give you a call. He has been the total gentleman. Sam? I can’t believe I’m on a yacht with a rock star. I keep on pinching myself to make sure I’m not dreaming!” said Deb awestruck

  “Calm down. Remember. They are regular people,” warned Sam.

  “I know, I know. So, how is Jordan?” asked Deb.

  “He’s pretty jealous,” laughed Sam. “I haven’t seen my brother like this in a long time. But then I haven’t lived with him for the last couple of years, either. It’s pretty funny.”

  “How do you mean jealous?” asked Deb, pleased.

  “He thinks you should h
ave said no. Then he wanted to rent a boat to follow you around,” admitted Sam.

  “Now, that is awesome,” said Deb dreamily. “Bryce is serving champagne and appetizers, nothing heavy. This is a beautiful island. I can’t wait to see it up close and personal. All the mountains are so pretty.”

  “Well, that’s what you have Jordan for, Deb. Have him drive you around and the two of you can discover it. You’ll have my car and the house is all yours tonight.”

  “Really?” squealed Deb.

  “Yes,” laughed Sam. “Ian and I have plans of our own.”

  “He is so right for you, Sam. I couldn’t be happier that you found someone like him,” said Deb honestly.

  “I hope so because I’m hopelessly in love with him,” admitted Sam. “I’ve got to go. Jordan just got done taking a shower and is on his way down. I’ll talk to you later.”

  “Who was that?” asked Jordan as he entered the room.

  “Deb. She’s doing just fine. Said Bryce has been the total gentleman,” said Sam sweetly.

  “I’m still gonna kill him,” growled Jordan and the doorbell rang. Sam and Jordan looked at each other quizzically and Sam answered the door.

  “Are you Samantha Stevens?” A very pretty blonde, with long legs with a perfect body stood on the front porch.

  “Yes, and you are?” asked Sam, sensing some bad vibes.

  “The name is Jennifer. Jennifer Jakes.” She stood tall and looked over at Jordan. “Who’s he? Someone else’s boyfriend you stole?”

  “Wait a minute,” said Sam defensively. “What is this about?”

  “Ian. You stole my boyfriend, Ian. Leave him alone. He’s mine.” She gestured at Jordan whose eyes were as big as saucers. “You can have him.”

  “He’s my brother,” stated Sam flatly. “How dare you come to my house? I didn’t steal Ian away from you. I didn’t even know you existed.”

  “Oh, but I do exist, lady, and you better stay away,” threatened Jennifer.

  “Look, chica. I don’t take orders from you or anyone else. Don’t you ever come back here again.” Sam slammed the door shut, seething. “Of all the nerve!” She turned to Jordan. “Can you believe it?”