Envy and Cold Blooded Murder

By Jane L. North

Taylor Rutherford has always known that there was more to her than her stunning beauty, brilliance, and her desire to be a brain surgeon. She also knew that she could murder if provoked. Love provoked her. She wanted the playwright Evan Tathmen with all of her heart but he loved his wife and baby daughter Wendy. His family had to die for her love to live.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jane L. North
• Release date: Jul 31, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310641299

Jane L. North

Writer, French tutor and animal lover. Participates in German Shepherd and horse rescue. Favorite breed of horse is the Akhal-Teke.

Book preview

Prologue

I read in the newspaper just the other day where some weeping woman or enraged man said that Taylor Rutherford should have been drowned at birth. And in some ways I am inclined to agree, reluctantly, but agree. I know that these words sound a bit strange and disloyal coming from Taylor’s own bloodline. But once you get an understanding of my sister this haze will lift and my perspective will be as well received as the breath inside of your own lungs.

Our rich tapestry began to unravel long ago when I was sixteen and Taylor was seventeen. Yet still, I am wounded stringing threads back through loops trying unsuccessfully to make our vivid picture whole and worthy of framing again. My analyst says that I must stop being so secretive, so introverted, so timid, and so guilty. He believes that if I tell my story the truth will do the undoable and make me free. So, I’m telling you this story based on things that I saw, what was confessed to me by the monster, and what they said to me. They sounds somewhat elusive so I’ll briefly introduce a few of those that fall under the title they. There are my parents Winifred and William Rutherford, who simply raised my sister and I in a moral, and privileged environment. Another member of the they society is Eli who is best described as horrible and depraved. Next I will mention young Wendy who is the daughter of Mia, who is the wife of the irresistible man (Evan) that started it all. I don’t blame Evan completely. Can Adonis be chastened for being Adonis? No. But I do hold him somewhat responsible for turning blind eyes and deaf ears and indirectly allowing the Rutherford name to become synonymous to ATROCITY.

This man, Evan Tathmen, was no more than flesh and bone yet he took on the image of a powerful and celestial being and dominated all forms of life as we knew it. Evan simply lifted his omnipotent hand, stopped the world from spinning, and triggered a vicious apocalypse that consumed everything and everyone in its path.

Chapter One

My beautiful sister Taylor was scaring me. There was just something really wrong with a person who spent four days preparing for one single night, the way Taylor did. She spent ninety-six hours primping (choosing shoes, clothes, make up, hairstyles, practicing walking, talking, smiling....) and mentally preparing herself for the evening that she was supposed to spend in the presence of the great Evan Tathmen—winner of twelve Tony Awards and only twenty-six years old (not to mention good looking enough to have been on America’s Sexiest Star Alive list more times than I have fingers).

My arrogant and conceited sister who one week ago despised the world of theater believing that any profession that was not a lawyer, engineer, scientist, or doctor like our parents, bred idiots and allowed "uneducated people to prosper instead of working in the assembly line where they belonged," had changed her mind in one instant of coming into close, personal contact, with Evan Tathmen and was now what I called a groupie. Rather than placing all of her unyielding energy into academics as she’d done for seventeen years, she dedicated her time to the study of Evan Tathmen and how she might get him for herself. Taylor immersed herself in Evan’s world and gathered every article and piece that centered around the man, consuming all the facts, licking her lips like a greedy cat with a bowl of cream.

Even though both of our parents were in the medical field, I was the only one who seemed to diagnose that there was something seriously wrong with Taylor and that she was having a meltdown. I believed she’d had some kind of psychological breakdown from her first meeting with Evan.

Taylor, I was thinking about your big evening with that playwright.

What about it? Taylor asked. She was busily reading yet another article that offered a bit of information about Evan and didn’t have time to look in my direction. You know Joyce, Evan is an intensely private person. Aside from achievements, I can’t really get any information on his upbringing or personal life. I mean, I know he’s a college dropout from a wealthy family and that he’s a bit under six feet tall; he’s about 5’11 and a few centimeters. I also know that his parents moved here from England when he was small. They left Surrey and brought him over as a baby just as our parents left Surrey and brought me over as a baby. How unusual and perfect that we would share such an interesting similarity."

I had to interrupt the lunacy for a moment. Taylor, this is just bizarre and unhealthy. How can you suddenly place all of your attention on a man that you don’t even know and have only met for a brief moment—and that was when you were the student who introduced him last week in the school auditorium. Sure he gave you those tickets for his play tonight but what makes you think he’s even going to remember you with all of the thousands of people that he meets every week–every day even?

What do you mean not remember me, Joyce? Taylor angrily slammed her magazine onto the bed. You stay out of this! What would you know about the power of love? I suddenly shrunk back. It was the hot, murderous rage and anger that quickly surfaced in Taylor’s eyes that silenced me. Certain that I had been shoved into my place, Taylor strolled over to the full length mirror and gazed at herself. Now, be honest. I look extremely sexy and beautiful, don’t I? There’s not a man alive who could turn me down. Am I right? Of course I’m right, she gloated and ran her fingers across her high model cheekbones while examining her perfect nose, striking cornflower blue eyes, flawless skin and full sensuous lips.

Of course you’re right, I quickly agreed. But—

Then that’s all there is for now, Taylor said pulling herself away from her reflection. Because I need my appearance to speak for me at this moment because Evan really has no concept of my achievements in the academic world. Am I right?

It’s just that…

I said, am-- I-- right? she warned and dared me to disagree.

Of course you’re right, I said softly and proceeded with caution. But Taylor I don’t understand your behavior. You’re a very intelligent girl but I feel that you’re being kind of impetuous and that scares me, just a little.

Impetuous? Taylor crinkled her nose and looked at me as though I were foolish to dare disagree with her. Don’t be silly. I’m being perfectly normal.

Okay, I was going to have to come out with it. I decided to be as blunt as I possibly could because my tiptoeing around Taylor’s weirdness was only making things worse. First of all, I don’t think that man remembers that he even spoke with you last week. There is no future in this obsession of yours. And when you go to his play tonight, you’ll be treated like a complete and utter stranger. As soon as I ended what I know she saw as a personal assault, I felt the heat from Taylor’s disapproving glare creeping up and down my body.

Look Joyce, I know what this is about. She walked over to me and before I knew it she had dug her nails into my arm. You’re jealous. So maybe you read an article or two about Evan before I did. That doesn’t mean you own him. She released my arm and left five scratches on my stinging skin. I watched her lift a tissue from her vanity table and carefully clean my blood off of her nails. She then dropped the tissue on the floor and brushed it under the vanity with her foot. Joyce I can see through you. You’re hot for Evan yourself! That’s why you were hiding in the dark, eavesdropping, while Evan and I were engaged in intimate conversation after his speech last week! You were huddled back there behind the pillar of the stage like some creepy phantom! Joyce, you want the man for yourself but let’s be real; you can’t compete with me. Evan would never pick you over me.

"Taylor, I’m not even trying to compete with you. That guy is entirely too old for me—and he’s too old for you. This isn’t about jealousy or me being hot for that playwright. Plus, you weren’t having a private conversation with him. He was talking about himself, milking you for what plays you liked of his, milking you for what praise you had for him. You don’t really know anything about him."

Taylor slowly slid her tongue across her front teeth and stared daggers through me. Joyce do you still want to trail along behind me and come to the play tonight? I dropped my eyes in a sheepish fashion because I really wanted to go. I felt that for some reason I had to be there. Taylor was definitely going to need a shoulder to cry on when Evan snubbed her. If you don’t shut up, I’ll change my mind about taking you with me Joyce. I’ll withhold your privilege, Taylor said in a high and mighty tone.

Well, I’ll tell Mom and Daddy that you’re going out to chase some bohemian entertainer type whose out of your age bracket, I shot carelessly.

Go ahead. I’ll just say that the headmaster wanted me to do a piece on Evan Tathmen for the school paper. And whom do you think they will believe?

I knew perfectly well whom they would believe. I knew whom they always believed.

Taylor laughed lightly and strolled out of the room, leaving me alone. At this point it was obvious that there was nothing that I could really do. Evan was going to dismiss her in the cruelest way possible and then she would see for herself. She would see that I had been correct from the start but until that moment came I decided to go to my room and prepare for the big night.

Taylor and I arrived at the theater and sat in our reserved front row seats next to the other honored guests. The conservative dress I wore was nice but Taylor’s fashion sense left mine in the dust. Taylor was a complete show stopper. She shimmered in her gorgeous, spaghetti strap, but way, way, way, too tight and too short, figure hugging, number. The outfit was absolutely stunning against Taylor’s 5’8" slender, athletic, yet provocative figure.

Don’t you think I look perfect? Taylor asked confidently as the theater grew dark. I only nodded but I knew for a fact that Taylor looked beyond perfect. From the moment that she stepped out of the driver’s seat of our mother’s Mercedes all eyes fell onto her. Taylor was a classical beauty that commanded all attention. Taylor had everything, and she simply projected wealth, hotness, success, hotness, maturity hotness and from what I could tell, these were qualities that many men in the theater both eligible and taken appreciated much to their dates’ displeasure. Did you hear me Joyce? Taylor asked into my ear for what must have been the hundredth time. I sighed and did my best to remain patient.

Yes, you look perfect but I still don’t think it really matters.

Not only do I look perfect, I am better looking than any woman here, Taylor corrected firmly and directed all of her attention to the grand stage.

For the next two hours the stage was filled with unexpected twists, exciting turns, villains, victims, and absolute wonder. Yet, neither of us saw any of it because Taylor was watching the handsome Evan Tathmen who was dressed in a black tuxedo sitting in a chair on the side of the stage critically watching and taking notes as he gazed at the production. And I was watching Taylor knowing that as soon as the production was over she was going to be in for a big disappointment, once the man completely ignored her----because he saw hot, beautiful, babes every day.

Suddenly the play was over and the crowd was on their feet crowing for Evan Tathmen and praising his name. I watched Evan rather arrogantly take his time getting up from the seat in the corner. He walked as though he expected nothing less from his followers and moved onto center stage. Taylor was beaming and waving at Evan as though they were the closest of friends.

I reached for her dress, but it wasn’t enough of it to catch and she was just too fast for me. Before I could catch Taylor she ran to the bottom of the stage, front and center, and looked up.

That was spectacular, Taylor mouthed and smiled charmingly. Evan had just been in the process of listening to a cast member who spoke into his ear when he caught sight of my sister.

Uh-oh here it comes, I muttered.

I saw two ushers getting ready to move towards Taylor and my heart sank into my stomach. I knew she was about to be thrown out in front of all of those people. And it was going to break her heart into a thousand pieces. But all of a sudden the ushers stepped back because Evan Tathmen stepped forward, reached down, and grabbed Taylor’s hand and kissed it. Thank you Taylor, he said over the crowd’s cheers.

I simply stood in shock because I couldn’t believe that he still remembered Taylor. And as if that weren’t enough of a feat he invited us backstage to the after party.

And you said he wouldn’t remember me, Taylor gloated in my ear as we walked down the hall and stepped into the marble elevator that would take us to Evan, his cast, and everyone else that was of importance. Taylor was set to harass me further but as the elevator came to a stop she placed all of her energy into rehearsing the art of breathing; she had forgotten how. You’re actually doing it, she muttered to herself between hyperventilating and biting her nails. You are almost there.

Are you all right? I whispered.

I’m fine. What would make you think otherwise? she snapped and allowed her face to assume a fake radiant and confident expression that was meant for Evan.

Once the elevator doors opened Taylor stepped into the luxurious party setting. She craned her neck that was clad with our mother’s diamond necklace and scanned the vast room until she saw Evan’s handsome frame in the midst of a sea of adoring people. Taylor prepared to move across the room but stopped when a waiter approached us with a few goblets of wine on a tray.

Would you ladies care for a drink? he asked

Why thank you. Taylor took a goblet with ease. I quickly declined and trotted behind Taylor determined to stop her before bringing the goblet to her lips.

You can’t drink that Taylor. You’re not even eighteen.

Shut up Joyce, Taylor said and took a steady gulp. It was a very good year indeed, she said to me looking at the shimmering cup of gold.

Yes but—

Joyce, either act accordingly or stay in the background. I will not be embarrassed by your puritanical guilt. Taylor spoke sharply and I followed silently at her side. Taylor moved through the talking crowds with unmatched grace and confidence.

One of the lead actors in the play strolled over to Taylor and said, Milan, that orgy—ten girls one million moves?

Never answers a fool according to their folly, Joyce----Never answer a fool! Taylor said brushing right past him. Hello there, she said calmly and planted a hand on Evan’s shoulder. He turned and gasped appropriately.

Oh, you made it! Evan smiled and kissed Taylor on the cheek before turning to his audience. Everyone, this is my lovely and dear friend Taylor Rutherford. All eyes swung to Taylor and they quickly welcomed her into the fold.

Another hour floated past and I came to the realization that Taylor and I needed to leave. It was already after two. I wondered how we were going to explain breaking curfew to Mom and Dad. I finally have everything that I’ve ever needed in the world right here in this room. And I’m not leaving it for anything.

I was only saying that we couldn’t stay here all night, I said softly.

Taylor, come back over here and tell us more about your play, Evan said. Taylor had lied the minute we got in and told Evan that she too had written a play.

Taylor became visibly excited and almost galloped off but I started to speak louder, making my demands stronger. We have to leave. We have to leave now, I enforced.

Taylor, we’re waiting for you, Evan called again. When Taylor heard the man beckon for her again she practically quivered with delight.

Did you bring a coat with you? I questioned while pulling Taylor towards the door.

Just a minute. Taylor snatched her hand away from me and anchored her feet in the dark, marble floor. Don’t be a fool Joyce. I just told you that I’m not leaving. You can either stay or go or sit back down in that frumpy old chair where you belong! Before Taylor could say another word Evan appeared with words of Taylor’s nonexistent play on his lips and he whisked Taylor off to the waiting crowd.

Most people would have left the festivities and made their way home if they had been treated as shamefully as I had been but I stayed. I made myself comfortable in a dark corner and kept an eye on my sister. I wanted to be certain that she was safe and didn’t leave with Evan who was a complete and total stranger.

I guarded Taylor until a quarter until three then I dozed off and began a dream about her rushing off with Evan who was wearing an ugly mask and began bludgeoning her with a pipe. And all the while Taylor kept reaching for my hand, begging me to help her. I woke up to catch her tugging at my arm.

Joyce, Evan is leaving and I’m going with him.

Where are we going? I whispered and followed behind Taylor.

He’s giving us a ride, my sister explained hastily and shoved me into the elevator with trembling hands. We’re supposed to meet him in front of the building.

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. We already had transportation. Taylor, what are you talking about? We’re in Mom’s car, remember?

I know that but Evan doesn’t. The elevator came to a stop. She yanked me out with incredible force and made her way towards the exit. Her rapid heels pounded the tile floor and I did my best to keep pace. I told Evan that I didn’t have a way back to my house so he offered to take me there. He has to make a few stops along the way but who cares? It should be fun.

Hang on a second, I begged as soon as we stepped into the frozen morning air. It’s almost five o’clock in the morning.

What I say to our parents about our lateness is none of your business; you just keep your mouth shut when we get home and everything will be all right, Taylor said to me just before we stepped inside of the crowded limo.

I managed to squeeze into a corner next to the door while Taylor took her place right on Evan’s lap and gave him a dazzling smile and wrapped her arm around his neck. He at what seemed like a reflex fastened his arms around my sister’s slender, dainty, waist.

I’m sorry it took me so long. I had to wake Joyce up. The darling was fast asleep. She gave me an endearing, maternal, glance that suggested I had been in the chair sucking my thumb when she woke me.

Poor thing, Evan laughed. He grew silent for a moment but suddenly looked at me with questioning eyes. So Joyce, when did you come to the party? You must have arrived rather late because I don’t remember seeing you, Evan said.

It was obvious that the man never noticed me. I came in at the same time Taylor did and I could have made a snide comment based on his rudeness but that would have been inappropriate so I only shrugged in an extremely girlish way and smiled. I came late, I said flatly as the limo pulled off.

After Evan had given me an eye-blinks attention he returned to Taylor. The two began talking about plays and the excruciating energy that writing requires. Taylor filled the air with giant lies about her writing ability and her love for writing and the creative arts,—and Evan grabbed each word with great interest.

We dropped the last of Evan’s guests off at their hotels. Then we finally made it to the luxurious Waymont hotel where Evan stayed. Next stop, my place darling, Evan said calmly. I couldn’t believe that Evan would be so crass as to make such a sexual offer to Taylor, and especially in the bold way that he did, and with me being there! Was this wretched show person expecting to have some sort of ménage à trois? Evan turned to look at me. He must have read my mind because he began laughing softly. Oh Joyce, he chuckled as we got out of the car, walked into the building and entered the elevator. While opening the mahogany doors of his suite he said, I apologize if I sounded perverse because that wasn’t my intention. Your sister has been fabulous company and I wouldn’t dream of taking advantage. As Taylor well knows, I’m only going in here to get a list of universities that I have close connections with.

Yes, Taylor said sharply and looked at me as though I was an embarrassing idiot. She had known about Evan’s wholesome intentions from the beginning and hadn’t told me one word. Joyce, Evan is going to make sure that I get into the theater program of my choice. He sees my great talent and wants to place me in the best environment for it to bloom to its fullest. As Taylor spoke Evan disappeared through the mahogany doors vowing he’d be right back with the information. Joyce, you can be so annoying, she hissed sure that Evan was out of hearing range. How could you have looked at him that way when it was obvious that we were two consenting adults who wanted each other? Taylor thought that I would drop my head in humble shame but she was wrong and I didn’t. She should have told me about Evan’s intentions. What else was I to think, the way the two of them were fawning all over each other? And if Evan had invited me into his bed, which he probably will do later tonight, it is my decision to make. Not yours! You just mind your own business and quietly hail a taxi when it is clear that the two of us want to be alone, Taylor commanded bitterly.

I’m sorry, I said and backed against the wall.

No you’re not. You just wanted to embarrass me and make sure that Evan denied his feelings for me. Taylor was clearly in the fighting mode but I sought the peace and apologized again.

I said I was sorry.

I followed my sister into the posh quarters and took a seat in a chair. Taylor moved around the lavishly furnished living room and only came to a stop when she saw Evan come out of a bedroom with a stack of papers in hand.

Oh, I apologize. I left you standing in the foyer. Where are my manners? Make yourself comfortable here in the living room Taylor, Evan said. You should look over this information carefully and then get back with me, he said. Let me know which university you are interested in attending.

Get back with you? Taylor questioned and took the papers into her waiting hands. I don’t think I understand.

Well, Evan fell onto an olive toned sofa and smiled. I’m leaving the city later on today, and returning home. But I love your work or what you described to me this evening. And, I feel that you display a great deal of potential and I want you to pick a program that can give you the proper nurturing that a talent like yours deserves. Afterwards call me directly, my private line is scribbled on the last page, and I will make certain that you are placed where you want to be.

I was astonished and overwhelmed. Taylor was now, all of a sudden planning to attend a school of the arts, one that was centered on creativity when she had dreamt of being a neurologist since she was four. I couldn’t believe she was doing all of this to please this man. She had rerouted her entire future in an effort to maintain Evan’s interest. Mother and Dad would have Evan’s head on a stick when they got wind of this!

Taylor wrapped her arms around Evan’s shoulders and hugged him with such warmth that I had to stand up and leave my seat. It was simply too sad for me to sit and handle. Seeing my beautiful sister who was daily besieged by guys who wanted to go out with her----but were turned down because of her exceedingly high standards-----suddenly gone man crazy and acting like a lovesick puppy over a guy who was entirely too old for her!

So, do you always keep an eye peeled for blossoming talent? Taylor asked softly insinuating that his interest in her had to be special.

Well, most people don’t interest me, Evan flattered shamelessly and made room for Taylor to sit next to him. They bore me to the nervous breakdown stage in about five minutes but you don’t. You are scintillating Taylor.

Daddy! A little girl no more than two rounded the corner and bounced into Evan’s lap. Taylor flew back against the sofa as if she’d been sucker punched and opened her mouth to speak but nothing left her lips. And I was certain that a sound would never escape Taylor again when the delicate, shriveled, albino woman with the mismatched facial features and closely cropped, colorless hair, wandered into the living room. It would be impolite to say ugly but the woman in the baggy gray sweater that barged into the middle of Evan and Taylor’s conversation was so crudely formed and definitely not comely.

I know you said you were seeing company darling, and we’re sorry to interrupt, the woman said with a smile. But Wendy was just so excited and heard your voice in here and there was no keeping her out. You have been gone all night, you know.

I was practically finished here, Evan said with a smile. He left his seat next to Taylor and moved over to the woman that had spoken to him. He leaned down and kissed her on the lips with genuine affection before drawing back with a smile. I really wish you could have been there tonight Mia. I missed you, so very much.

Taylor slumped over on the arm of the couch and I watched her pull back the pillow and softly vomit into its cushy pocket. I wanted to say something to my sister but I couldn’t find a single word within myself. I was too busy staring at the woman named Mia and noticing the way Evan spoke to her, looked at her, and clearly adored her.

Mia wrapped her arm around Evan’s waist and smiled at Taylor. And you must be the brilliant young girl that Evan told me about over the phone tonight. He described your play to me and it sounds exciting.

It’s a sensation, Evan went on but he suddenly rolled his shining eyes. Where are my manners? Mia meet Taylor. Taylor this is my lovely wife Mia, my life’s breath, and that ball of delight next to you is my daughter Wendy, he said without ever noticing that Taylor’s face was drained of color.

And just like that, Evan abruptly destroyed Taylor’s obsession. Once Taylor learned about Evan’s child and incredibly unattractive wife a switch flipped back on in her head and balance was restored. She went about her life as usual and enrolled in an Ivy League university that suited her love for math and science. She was preparing to become a neurologist like Mother and Dad. Taylor was completely over her brush with Evan Tathmen. She was her old brainiac self again. It was as if the horrific mental disorder that had sprung up inside of her—over Evan the playwright had never happened. I honestly thought that the Evan fueled mental disorder was in remission but in three years everything changed right before my eyes. On Taylor’s third Evan-free year, she suffered a major relapse.

Chapter Two

An opportunity for action arose in mere moments and as soon as a zealous and teary fan introduced Evan Tathmen all eyes were on Evan including the security guards. Taylor slipped through the unattended side doors and in moments she was backstage. Rather than wandering around, Taylor took a seat in a deserted corner and closed her eyes to wait. On the exterior she seemed like a beautiful, calm and collected woman but on the inside she was fainting. Her heart beat a thousand times for every second and her blood coursed through her veins at a dizzying rate.

Just wait, she whispered to herself. Getting the man that is meant to be your husband rests in your patience and determination...getting the man that is meant to be your husband rests in your patience and determination...getting the man that is meant to be your husband rests in your patience and determination... She chanted these words repeatedly and eventually her mind became as still as the dead. Taylor slipped into a state of being that was reserved for victory and nothing less. This was also the indomitable and unwavering mind-set that Taylor adopted when she resolved to leave her family and Ivy League university behind without uttering one word about her departure. She just got up and left —she couldn’t keep away from Evan Tathmen any longer. The hypnotic state that had fallen over her mind lasted for two hours and dissolved when a mighty roar of applause filled her ears. The lecture was over. In that instant she knew that her time had come. This was her moment to set her feet upon the plate and hit an outstanding homerun. Taylor stood to her feet and adjusted her short, navy, pinstripe skirt and ivory blouse that she had spent days choosing. She wanted to look dutiful and tragic yet devastatingly beautiful with a hint of sexiness.

As the chattering entourage passed her by she scanned the group for a pair of luminous bright green, eyes that she had never forgotten and would never forget as long as she lived. In a split second the man that she had been thinking about incessantly for the past few years strolled into view. Evan entered the hall smiling, looking incredibly handsome, and talking to an elderly woman whose arm was merrily wrapped in his.

"I saw your play My Right to Murder a few years ago and I was completely in awe," the senior citizen fawned and rested her head on Evan’s shoulder.

"You mean, Murder My Right, he answered with a smile. Anyhow, I’m thrilled that you enjoyed it Mrs. Parter. And I hope you continue to find pleasure in my work."

Oh I will, Mrs. Parter purred and quickly blushed when Evan kissed her cheek. Oh, you are too wonderful Evan. And just know that I will always look forward to your plays and follow your work. The blue haired woman winked and breathed a ragged excited breath. But it’s knowing that you wrote it that makes my pace maker cha-cha.

As Mrs. Parter spoke Taylor made her way through the staff members and journalists that stood around. Her steps were fast and steady, never losing sight of their goal.

Evan who was completely unaware of the familiar set of ravenous eyes boring into him continued to make conversation with several people who wanted autographs. But when the crowd eventually dispersed and Evan started to make his way towards the exit Taylor made her move. She hastened to Evan’s unsuspecting shoulder. Originally she considered reaching out and touching the man but after a moment of thought she withdrew her eager fingers and decided to wait until the time was absolutely right to touch.

Taylor cleared her throat. The soft sound seemed to echo for miles but strangely enough Evan failed to hear the slightest whisper. He walked on into the night as though no one was desperately waiting to fall under his gaze. Seeing her opportunity fading away Taylor raced into the darkness, sucked in a calming breath, and spoke with a surprising amount of authority.

Evan, she said and gently grabbed his hand. I heard that you were here. Evan turned to see who had spoken to him and who had taken hold of his hand. When he saw the stranger his face was blank.

Would you like me to sign something or answer a question?

Taylor stiffened. This question was like a punch to the stomach sending her thousands of feet backwards. She wondered how on earth he could have forgotten when all she could do was remember.

Are you all right Miss? Evan asked and looked his company over. You seem kind of ill.

Taylor realized that she was steadily becoming her own biggest obstruction so she spoke up. Well, most people don’t interest me. They bore me to the nervous breakdown stage in about five minutes but you don’t. You are scintillating, she said with a small laugh. Or were you just feeding me a line, Mr. Tathmen? she smiled.

Evan moved forward and looked closely. Taylor! he exclaimed and gave her a gracious hug.

The one and the only, Taylor said softly and relished the contact that she had with Evan. A simple hug from the man caused her heart to come close to exploding.

Evan beamed with delight and hugged Taylor once more for good measure. Well how have you been? Walk with me, come this way. Evan grabbed Taylor by the arm and together they walked across the dark parking lot. Well maybe I should walk you to your car instead? We could talk on the way there since I’m certain you have plans.

The idea of separating was unbearable. Taylor couldn’t let him go again. But thanks to a certain predicament, she wouldn’t have to. I don’t have a car, Taylor confessed.

I can remedy that, Evan laughed and before long he and Taylor were inside of his car. And it just so happened that they beat the turbulent downpour of rain. As the two sat in the car unable to drive off right away because of the heavy, blinding, rainfall Taylor began to think. She considered many things but the most troubling thought came in the form of a question. How? How on earth was she going to manage the task of staying at Evan’s side and never leaving it again? There had to be an answer. She stared into the downpour thinking of her plan and wondering if it would work. So how has your life been? Evan questioned while starting the car and turning the windshield wipers on.

It’s been hectic, Taylor said evasively. Just so you understand, I would have contacted you sooner about your offer to help me get into school. It’s just that I had to make some very difficult decisions and I wasn’t able to follow my dream, she whispered sadly Really, I’m only getting to that point now. I think that I’ve gotten strong enough to make a move that hasn’t been dictated to me. Taylor’s tone combined with the words caught Evan’s attention. He turned the car off and looked in her direction.

I just assumed that with your brilliance, you wanted to get into school on your own merit when you didn’t contact me.

Evan, I know you don’t know me all that well, Taylor began demurely. But I—

I know you well enough, Evan insisted and waited to gather more information about what may have prompted Taylor’s dismal tone. Seeing her eager audience waiting, Taylor quickly faked a miserable expression. It simply slid over her face like a mask.

They say I’m getting over it but I don’t feel like it’s true.

Getting over what? Evan asked quietly with concern on his brow.

It’s nice to see a familiar face Evan. I was so happy when I learned in my writing class, that you were going to be speaking here.

Oh yes, I speak here every year. I know you don’t know this, as I’m so private, but I live near this town. But you dearest, he said placing his hand on her cheek I’m sensing a sadness about you.

I’ve been through so much since I last saw you Evan, but it’s just wonderful to see someone that reminds me of better times. How are things with you and Mia?

Wonderful, Evan remarked quickly. But since he wasn’t one to be distracted he continued in his quest for the facts. Now tell me, what have you been through? Why do you look so downtrodden?

Having assumed that this question would arise, Taylor crafted a fine answer. I can’t talk about everything but I have to tell you that I can’t keep going through the rigors of school. I just can’t do it anymore. Not right now.

Rigors of school? Evan said with shock and confusion.

I don’t think I’m well. Taylor made sure that these words were haunting. And after her delivery she placed her slender fingers over her eyes and tried to blot the rush of fake tears that poured from both eyes. I’ve been trying to come out of it, but I can’t. I feel too guilty. And this guilt, it just devours me.

Guilty? Over what? Evan went on as though he and Taylor were the closest of friends and worthy of each other’s concern.

Taylor lowered her head onto the dashboard and forced herself to weep uncontrollably and when Evan touched her shoulder she allowed a bit of her story to float up into the tense air of the car. When I started school I picked the major that would send me in the direction my family wanted. I stayed for as long as I could but after a while, she moaned. After a while I started thinking about living for myself, just a little. Then I considered it more often and before I knew it, I had left my first university so I could follow my true love: theater. Taylor began to weep so loudly and savagely that Evan began to worry for her. He did his best to comfort her but everything was to no avail.

You made the right choice, Evan insisted while resting Taylor’s pitiful head on his shoulder.

"No,