Fire and Rain Ch. 03

*Again thanks for all the good luck wishes. If you're reading this I left already!!*

*I was hoping to have the story done but everyone is right, it's too meaty to be a quick one. I'm hoping I will have time to get out another installment before the end of June! It'll be tough. Please bear with me if I'm not able to return until July*

PS: I'm definitely gone to try my hardest to not leave y'all hanging. I appreciate you guys so much!!

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*****

"I DON'T KNOW WHAT I DID WRONG?" Marcelo said as he sat in his house with James and Connor.

"Besides scaring the girl half to death and causing her to faint, nothing." James took a sip of his drink and smirked over the rim of his glass and Marcelo shot daggers at him.

"I wasn't trying to scare her and make her pass out. We were having dinner, things got personal, I got uncomfortable and.."

"And you yelled and screamed essentially trying to run away from your feelings." Connor took a sip of his own drink as they moved out the backdoor, and to the space on the porch in the backyard.

"Not necessarily in that order. Look, I like Rain. I feel a connection with her, but should I really be dumping my life story on her. There's a lot of things I need to sort out right now. I mean you guys are like family, you know what I've been through."

"Rain is different. Family is one thing, an intimate romantic relationship is another. When those type of feelings get involve someone could get hurt and I know for a fact it'll be Rain. I keep warning her to keep her distance but she doesn't. She pushes me to this place..."

Marcelo paused and looked up as James and Connor were looking at him eyebrows raised.

"Oh my god Connor, he's falling for her." James hooted.

"I don't even know her! It's been like two months going on three." Marcelo shook his head even though the thought of her caused something to squeeze at his heart.

"Listen, Marcelo you always talk about how you have never had a real connection with a woman. You always talk about how love is not for you and you'd rather die alone. Maybe Rain makes your uncomfortable because she's different and makes you rethink everything you thought was true, including that real love doesn't exist."

Connor sat back pleased with his advice.

"Okay Dr. Phil, I will admit it. Rain does make me rethink a lot of things. I mean shes smart, caring, beautiful and I just feel this presence that I can't describe. I know this may sound weird but there's something about her that's different. The things that she says, the way she looks into me, almost like she can see right into my soul...and now I sound crazy."

Marcelo said looking at them staring at him with that same look.

James laughed.

"It's not crazy. It's called chemistry, intimacy, caring for someone besides yourself. We understand the concept of loneliness is one you know very well-" James started and Connor stopped him.

"Hey let's be nice to the poor guy. Marcelo when I first met Jazz I was reluctant at first. I didn't want to accept how I felt about her. I couldn't help myself though, and I was drawn to her. I fought for that intimacy and connection I knew we had. I knew I couldn't let her get away."

"Marcelo trust me you don't want to wake up and realize that you've let go of something that could have been the best thing for you. Plus, Rain is here to help you. You need to stop thinking there's some underhanded motive, maybe she really does just want to get to know you." Connor suggested.

"Add that to the fact that it probably wouldn't be hard for her to find a man that would be interested in her, she's gorgeous, which makes it even more a miracle that she would want you." Connor snipped and then was flipped off.

"Mhmm Connor is right. You need to stop playing around and be the John smith to her Pocahontas." James said and Connor almost spit out his drink.

"I'm Italian not English, and she's black too. I mean she's slender but that backside..." Marcelo wandered off and James snapped him back.

"Listen to me. Don't ruin this Marcelo. Who else is going to put up with your nasty attitude?"

"Thanks James. I was being an ass to her but since then I've apologized and tried to be better. Lately since she's fainted she hasn't really been speaking to me."

"She'll make small conversation, and then when I ask her is she mad at me, she says things like "Tell me and I'll forget. Show me, and I may not remember. Involve me, and I'll understand." I don't know how to take that."

"It's probably a proverb from her ancestors. Native Americans have a lot of proverbs filled with wisdom. Rain is not talking to you because you keep talking and yelling at her."

"She wants to be involved in your life, included. She wants to walk beside you in your healing process but you've been pushing her out."

Connor observed.

"I think you're right. Rain is always telling me that in one side of her culture they believe that healing someone is more than just the physical. I guess she believes having an emotional connection is important as well. I guess that means really knowing the person."

Marcelo rubbed his temples.

"I guess I haven't tried to include her. She's been cooking, and cleaning for me. She takes care of everything only for me to try to drive her away. I guess I understand how that could be upsetting. I don't want to hurt her. Rain is a good woman, who deserves a good man."

"And why can't that be you?" James asked incredulously.

"Stop focusing on how long it's been and how long it hasn't been. Focus on what's in your heart. If you care for Rain, and she's showing you that she cares too then let her in. Take a chance. You have to do something to show her that you're serious about turning a new leaf and being open with her." James told him.

"This is true. I have to thank her in some way. I mean I never thought I'd be walking without a cane again. It still get's bad sometimes but I can move almost as well as I use too and she's to thank for that. I think I have something in mind."

Marcelo put his hands together knowing what he had to do. He just hoped it would make up for how horrible he had been towards her.

"Good, she's over with Jazz. Donny's down south with Jazz's parents, as much as mama feeds him I bet he comes back looking like a beach ball." Connor said and they laughed.

"Yeah Rain is a good cook too. If it wasn't for the exercise we do together I'd be looking like one as well. Speaking of that James you looking a little bloated over there." Marcelo teased.

"Honey don't do me, I am flawless. Unlike you I don't spend my nights alone."

"When are you going to get married?" Connor asked and it was James turn to almost spit out his drink.

"Please, when I find someone who is worthy. Like a rich man." James commented.

"Well you know it is Adam and eve not Adam and Steve."

Marcelo teased and James cut his eyes at him and Connor laughed. He loved when they went at each other. It was all in fun.

"You're right Marcelo it is Adam and Eve...not Adam, Eve, Mary, Julie, Brittany, and whoever else you chose to frequent your bed a.k.a your hoe sanctuary."

James commented and they all laughed.

"Okay I'm giving this round to James." Connor said still laughing.

"Whatever, he always wins." Marcelo smirked.

"Just because you handicapped don't mean you get a pass." James said and scurried away when Marcelo got up.

"You see how he treats me?" Marcelo said laughing. This was what he needed. His family to get his mind together. They were right. He needed to stop running.

*

"THATS AMAZING RAIN." Jazz told her listening to her story. They had laughed, and cried together for the past three hours. Jazz was truly taken by Rain. She knew how to draw you out with her kindness and wisdom.

"No you and Connor are amazing. You guys love for one another is so strong. I admire that." Rain told her honestly.

"We're not without our flaws though. Love and family is tough but worth it. What about you? After you left the reservation and that asshole of a guy..you never dated anyone else?"

Jazz asked intrigued that such a beautiful and successful woman like her hadn't dated at least a couple guys along the way.

"No I've been married to my career my whole life. After I found out Jessie was using me for that land I must admit I closed myself off. I knew I was young but I couldn't shake the feeling that I would be used and hurt again."

"I think I was too busy trying to prove my mother and all the statistics wrong that I never thought about being with someone romantically." Rain confessed.

"I'm sure they were beating down your door." Jazz poured them both some more wine and then curled back on the couch for more girl talk.

"Please, if they did it was only for one thing. A lot of guys I would be around were also already married and thought I would partake in their infidelity. Some people at the top go crazy with power and money and they don't like hearing no."

"Yeah I know what you mean. I told you about the craziness we went through. Marcelo was there though every step of the way. I know he's been acting like a jerk but he really is a good guy. He cares about you, trust me." Jazz gripped her hand and she smiled.

"He has a funny way of showing it. I've just been keeping my distance for now. I have these strong feelings for him. I've never felt this way about anyone but I don't think he feels that way about me. I try to get close to him, he pushes me away and then goes "are ya mad at me?"

Jazz and Rain laughed as she nailed Marcelo's Italian accent.

"Yes men can be a little emotionally challenged at times and we women can be stubborn too. I gave Connor a really hard time. I had just come out of a bad marriage and I didn't want to believe that there was someone out there who would really love me for me but I was wrong." "Don't make the same mistakes I made. Rain you are wonderful inside and out and love is out there for you." Rain could feel her genuineness.

"I want to believe that. I do. I'm starting to fall for Marcelo, but I haven't been able to express that to him. I don't think I ever will be. I want to pursue something more intimate. I mean we have been close..."

Rain started and then laughed when Jazz put her wine down and scooted closer grabbing both her hands now.

"What happened? Girl you betta spill? Have you guys got it on?" Jazz asked excitement in her eyes as she lifted both her eyebrows simultaneously.

"No! Not that. We've just kissed and touched you know, but it's been magical. I mean I've never been kissed, and touched the way he kisses and touches me. I mean it was like pure fire. We kissed twice now, but it hasn't gone any further."

Rain said. She never had a girlfriend before that she could share things with like this. She was starting to get all giggly and excited as well.

"Well that's good. You gotta make em' wait, make em' work for it. It's been almost three months though I mean how long has it been since you had some?"

"Jazz!"

"It might be the wine talking but I'm just saying you got in-home service, what more could you ask for?" Rain hit her on the arm, and Jazz laughed.

"I mean I've thought about it but we haven't gotten there yet. Plus, it's been a while. You have no idea." Rain said taking a sip of her wine shyly.

"How long? Two or three years. That's nothing to be ashamed of. You don't want to be giving the goodies out to just anybody." Jazz reasoned and Rain laughed.

"No I mean its been a long time as in like twenty something years." Rain said and Jazz put down her glass once more.

"Are you saying that you've never had sex?"

"Never." Rain said finishing off her wine.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to offend you. I feel like an ass." Jazz said apologetic.

"No, you could never offend me. Jazz don't apologize. It's not like I'm not a prude or anything. It's just in my culture its really sacred."

"Your only suppose to have sex with someone you believe to be your soul mate so to speak. Plus, I've never had a serious connection with any guys you know."

"Jessie was going to be my first but it didn't work out. Then after that I just really never got out there in the game seriously again."

"I understand. I think it's great that you're saving yourself for the right one. You always talk about how you can read people. Well, do you think Marcelo could be that guy?" Jazz asked hopefully.

"I don't know. I think only time will tell. I know I am attracted to him. I know that you're great and I really hope we stay connected."

"Of course. I need this. I'm around men all the time. You're like heaven to me, you smell nice, you cook, what more could I ask for?" They both laughed.

"Let me help you with the glasses." Rain reached for the empty wine glasses and the empty bottle.

"No, I got it. You stay seated." Jazz assured her. She grabbed the glasses herself and tuck the bottle underneath her arm.

"You sure you got it?" Rain questioned and Jazz nodded looking determined.

"Yes, if I can carry Donny, a diaper bag, and a stroller I can carry this." Rain laughed and let her go on without any more argument.

Rain sat and felt her heart fill with happiness at the new friendship she had formed with Jazz. She thought about Marcelo. Maybe she was being a little harsh. He had been through a lot and she couldn't expect him to just open up all at once. She made a promise to herself to be more patient.

Then she heard the shatter. It was a crash and a horrific scream that had her face going white. The familiar air of tragedy rung in her ears and had her running towards the kitchen.

"Jazz, oh my god!" She rushed to Jazz's side to see her sprawled out on the floor glass everywhere. She felt for her pulse, and jumped when Jazz started to move and then cried out in pain.

"Rain," Jazz looked into her eyes with fear in her own.

"Don't move, are you okay?" Rain examined her and didn't see anything yet.

"My arm, I'm in so much pain but I can't move." Jazz stayed on the floor but felt the pain running through her arm.

She didn't expect to spill some wine and her feet to fall from under her. She tried to catch her fall but failed.

Rain looked down and horror washed over her face as Jazz's arm was twisted at a horrible angle.

"I think your arm is broken." Rain closed her eyes as tears streamed down Jazz's face.

"It hurts so bad. I can't get up I'm scared. I need an ambulance." Rain got up right away to call the ambulance, when she heard Jazz crying out in pain and sobbing. Rain felt her own tears. She could call the ambulance, have Jazz go through all the pain or she could fix it.

There wasn't much she felt she could do for Marcelo. His surgery was done but Jazz she could help her. She had to help her. Rain rushed back to her side.

"Jazz I need you to trust me. I can help you. I can help you okay." Rain wiped the tears from Jazz's eyes.

"Rain I need an ambulance please!" Jazz looked into her eyes desperately not sure what was going on. She cried out when Rain got up and took off her shirt to free herself. She needed to be relaxed.

"Jazz please...trust me." Before Jazz could get out another word Rain lifted her arm. Jazz screamed out in pain and became horrified at its twisted nature. She thought she would pass out from shock alone.

Rain felt it, the twist of the muscle and broken bone. Then Jazz felt nothing and watched as the ground beneath them started to shake. The pans that hung above the kitchen counter began to rattle. A wind broke through the window fiercely and whipped around Rains hair.

Jazz watched in awe as Rains eyes clouded over and the golden rim around her eyes shun. Rain shuttered as the pain washed through her. She hadn't done a healing in so long. She forgot how painful it could be. She stayed strong as the house shook harder.

Rain opened her mouth and Jazz continued to stare in amazement as a light shun from it. Jazz blinked when she felt a trickle of wetness fall on her forehead. Was that Rain? Before Jazz could process it her body bent up in an arch.

She felt herself lift off the ground and felt an energy move through and out of her body. Water fell hitting the floor and the light erupted through Rains mouth and mingled with the waterfall. Jazz fell to the floor and Rain hit the floor as well.

Rain was clearly out of breath and laid on the floor not daring to look up. She was waiting for it. The name calling, the accusations, the screams and shouts, and most of all the fear.

Jazz got up slowly and moved her arm. It rotated like nothing had ever happened and she felt no pain. She felt her heart race from what she had just witnessed. She immediately snapped out of it when she saw Rain panting.

"Rain, come on." Jazz helped Rain up and to the living room couch and made her lay down.

"Jazz I know what you think. I'm sorry I couldn't-"

"Rain stop, you need water."

Jazz went into the kitchen carefully and grabbed some. She stopped when she returned and Rain was passed out. She checked for a pulse and breathed a sigh of relief when she felt one. She brought the water to her own lips, and when she reflected on what just happened she felt the need for another glass of wine.

*

RAIN WOKE UP TO A DARK SKY OUTSIDE. She lifted up and a blanket fell from her body. A water and Aleve was waiting for her on the table. She rubbed her head and didn't think twice before taking the water and the pill down.

"Better?" She jumped when Jazz walked in the living room and sat on the couch by her side when Rain sat up to make room for her.

"Yes, thank you so much."Rain tucked her hair behind her ear nervously. They sat in silence for a few moments before Jazz broke it.

"Listen Rain. I don't understand everything that happened back there in the kitchen. I still don't know what it is that you did..."

"You don't have to continue. I can show myself out." Rain rose from the couch and Jazz stood with her.

Rain's eyes opened in surprise when Jazz gathered Rain in her arms for a hug.

"Thank you, what I'm trying to say is thank you."Rain settled into the hug and felt her eyes water.

"Jazz, my power is the one of the reasons Jessie left me. He feared what he didn't understand. Since then I've been hiding it. There's a legacy but its so much that I don't even know..." Rain began to sob and Jazz led her to the couch to sit again.

"He was an idiot Rain. Your power is special and unique. I know carrying this secret, and hiding a piece of who you really are for fear of not being accepted must be hard. I'm telling you that I accept you, and we can figure this out. There has to be written work and knowledge. Are there others?"

"Yes. There are but only one per lifetime. Right now I'm the only one living." Rain sniffled.

"There's a start. Rain we can figure this out, have you tried it on Marcelo?"Jazz couldn't help but ask.

"No, I don't think it would work. He's already had his surgery. Once healing has begun there's not much I can do. As far as I know I can't heal the blind or the deaf. I don't know the extent of my power yet, and Marcelo can't know either." Rain turned to Jazz and pleaded with her.

"Jazz promise me you won't tell anyone what happened. Please." Jazz nodded and Rain squeezed her hands in appreciation.

"I 'm going to keep this between us but Rain I'll be honest with you. It's not good to keep secrets from the ones you love. Trust me. I know from experience."

"I'm guessing you did and it backfired?" Rain looked into Jazz's eyes with a smirk.

"Girl, it lit my ass up." Jazz said and they laughed as Jazz dried Rain's tears with her thumb.