Pay It Forward Ch. 04

"Hey Sharon, how are you?" Darren asked. He liked Sharon, but he didn't want or need to get into a relationship right now.

"I'm great. How are you?" she asked. "How's Clemmie?"

"She's fine. Look I can never thank you enough for all you did for her." Darren looked her in the eyes.

Sharon smiled. "Well, you can buy me lunch if you really want to thank me." She teased.

Darren smiled and then remembered he was riding the bus. "I don't have a car. Is there someplace we can walk to?"

"I know just the place, and she led him to a local bistro near the hospital. Sharon ordered a sandwich and water, while Darius just had water. He paid for her order and they grabbed a table. She offered him half of her sandwich which he promptly refused. Sharon ate and they talked.

Darren liked her, but she didn't need a guy like him in her life. He would always be grateful to her, because she took care of his sister. But he could never date a woman like her. He was still in school. She was a nurse, and who knew. She might have a boyfriend already. Soon her lunch hour ended and he walked her back to work.

As Darren turned to leave, Sharon called after him. He stopped. And she gave him her number. "Darren, don't be a stranger."

He smiled as he placed the number in his pocket and then waved goodbye to her. Then he headed to the bus stop. He had to talk to Mr. MacGregor. Mr. MacGregor was more than a mentor, he was a friend. But he was responsible for his sister, so he had to arrange to pay him his money back.

Darren put his earplugs in and listened to some music as he rode to the MacGregor home. He couldn't stop smiling. He liked Sharon, and he'd really enjoyed the lunch they shared. Before long, he was nearing to his destination, not more than two blocks away now. He hummed all the way there.

When the housekeeper opened the door for him, she noticed that for once he seemed relaxed. "Ah Darren, you seem happy today. Your sister is in the gym, you know where." Mrs. King explained after she walked him in.

"If she's working with her trainer, I can wait." Darren responded. "Can I sit in the library? I won't touch-"

"Boy, if you finish that statement, I'll tan your hide myself. Get in there and sit down." She ordered as she shoved him affectionately. Darren laughed. He was surrounded my strong women. He and his buddies never stood a chance.

"Well. Look who's here. Where were you last night? You missed dinner." Delia exclaimed as she entered the library hugging the young man that was standing there.

"Hey, Ms. Delia. I'm sorry I missed dinner. I got a part time job at a local shop. I had to work late, so I caught a ride home and slept." He explained.

"Darren, if you need more money. We will give it to you. I don't want you neglecting school. I'll inform Shaun-" she started planning when Darren interrupted her.

"No Ma'am, I can't let you do that. You and your family have gone above and beyond to help us. I won't take money from you. I ...," then he smiled. He knew he had to talk with Mr. MacGregor, because if he told Ms. Delia his plans, she'd squash them before the words could leave his mouth.

"Hey, big brother. I missed you last night." Clemmie greeted her brother. "Where were you?"

"I started a new job and had to work late." Darren explained. "I'm here now. How are you, sis? You're looking good." Darren complimented her. His sister was one of the most beautiful and special women he knew. As soon as he finished that thought, a cute toffee colored nurse with deep brown hair, popped into his head. Shaking his head to clear his thoughts of Sharon, Darren continued to talk with his sister.

Hours passed, and soon Shaun came home. He was glad to see Darren and also asked why he was missing the night before. Darren explained and then he asked to speak with him about something private.

"Let's go to my office," Shaun stated.

"Darren, what's going on?" He asked.

"Mr. Macgregor, I want to start out by saying thank you. You have helped me and Clemmie so much. I went to the hospital today and found out her bills have been paid. Sir, I appreciate everything you've done, but I can't let you pay her bills. I need to pay you back. Will you make arrangements with me so I can repay this debt at least?" Darren asked.

Shaun crossed his arms. Darren hurt him. He knew he didn't mean too, but he had hoped that after all they'd gone through he saw him as family. For him to offer to pay him back meant he still as him as nothing more than a benefactor. Then Shaun, stopped himself. He knew this kid and with his sense of honor he'd feel obligated to pay off this debt. But really it wasn't necessary. So Shaun decided to handle this in a straightforward manner.

"Clemmie means the world to us, Darren. I paid that bill because it was the right thing to do. If the men I had in place had done their job, she would not have been there in the first place. So, son I can't take your money, but if you really want to pay me back, then be successful and help someone else.

You, Gianni, Kevin, and Michal are the future; I want to make sure you young men have every opportunity. Darren, both you and your sister are giants. You are so much bigger than you realize. You may not think so now, but one day you'll see what I see when I look at the two of you. There is no way I will take one red cent from you and if you insist, I'm calling Delia. You didn't mention this to her did you?" Darren grinned and Shaun laughed.

"No, son. You two kids are my family now. You owe me nothing. But I do ask that you reach out and help someone that you meet that's struggling one day. Help them the way I tried to help you." Shaun concluded.

Darren was speechless. For a moment, he stared at his mentor in awe. Then he smiled. "Ok, then. I know when to let something drop. Have you talked with Michal lately? I've been busy and haven't had a chance to call."

"Michal is fine. He's actually doubling his load, so he can graduate early and start on his MBA. I think he's up to something." Shaun answered with a twinkle in his eye.

His son was completed besotted with the lovely young lady that was staying with them. He called home often and he spoke with her every night. Shaun wondered if Darren was even aware of Michal's attraction to his sister.

Soon they left his office and joined the others for dinner. Kevin had stopped by as did Gianni and his two brothers. While they were eating Michal called and the group spent time catching up. Darren really enjoyed spending time with everyone, he just wished... Sharon popped into his thoughts once again. Darren smiled and of course Delia noticed. She tapped Clemmie and she too noticed the goofy grin her brother was wearing.

She was happy for her brother. She hoped whomever this girl was, she was worthy of him. The entire group talked and caught up on what was going on. Soon, Kevin and Darren were heading home; they had work and school the next day.

Gianni's mom came to pick him and his brothers up, but not before Delia made Maria promise to come over Saturday for a visit. The boys could spend the day with Shaun and all of the women would take a spa day. Maria laughed, and agreed. Delia smiled and walked her friend to her car.

Clemmie had a doctor's appointment, and she was hoping she could go back to work. She sat watching her extended family smiling. If someone had told her two years ago, that she'd be part of such a magnanimous group. She would have scoffed. Now, she was just grateful, and happy to be so loved.

Immediately she thought of the one person that wasn't there. How his dark green eyes twinkled with mischief when he was with the other guys. She thought of the hours he would just sit with her and listen. She thought of how soft his hair was, so dark, so black that it looked like liquid ink. Clemmie smiled, he called her his girl, a part of her wished it was true.

Shaking her head to dislodge the thoughts, Clemmie realized as much as she loved the MacGregor's, she had to get back to her life. Besides, not working was making her crazy. All she did was find herself thinking about Michal. She had to stop thinking about him. He was three years younger, and besides a guy like him didn't date girls like her.

As they were leaving, Darren asked. "What time is your appointment, tomorrow?"

Clemmie answered, "At ten, and Ms. Delia is going with me. Don't you dare cut class." She laughed as she hugged her brother.

The next morning, Delia and Clemmie headed to her appointment. After seeing the doctor's Delia had a small shopping trip planned for them.

As everyone expected, the doctor gave her a clean bill of health and told her she could return to her normal life. Clemmie was excited. She called the retirement center she worked at to see when they could get her back on schedule.

Mrs. Kent could let her start the next week. Delia was happy for her, but she'd miss seeing her in the house. "Let's have brunch, Clemmie." Delia suggested. They stopped at a local eatery.

The two women chatted, and then Delia decided to voice her one concern. "You don't have to move out. We have plenty of room as you can see. You can take one of the cars to drive to work. It wouldn't be a problem at all."

Clemmie looked at her. Then she smiled. "Ms. Delia, it's time. I appreciate all you done but I need to go back out on my own." She explained.

"You don't have to move out to do that." Delia insisted. She feared Clemmie being hurt again. She failed her once.

"Ms. Delia, what Robert did, was all on Robert. I can't live my life afraid of being hurt. I have to move on. Do you think once I go back to work and find a place, I'll stop visiting?" Clemmie asked.

Delia blushed. "Ms. Delia, listen," Clemmie gently grasped her hand. "You are like a Mom to me. The only way I won't try and see you is if you told me to go away for good. You are one of the most important people in my life and you'll never be rid of me. But I am grown and I have to take control of my life."

"I know," Delia whispered. "It's just that, when you leave, it'll be so lonely at the house. The boys won't have a reason to visit, and you all will forget me."

"Ms. Delia, Darren, Kevin, and Gianni love you. They are around all the time. Do you really think they'll stop just because I moved out. Not to mention, Michal. Honestly, I don't see how he goes to class, he visits home so much." She joked.

Delia smiled, "You're right. I'm just being melancholy. You kids are my heart. So now that you go back to work next week, won't you need new uniforms?" she asked.

Clemmie laughed, "Ms. Delia, when you're right. You're right."

The two women headed to their favorite department store.

Darren was in class and couldn't concentrate. Last night he couldn't sleep. His thoughts kept drifting you Sharon. What is it about that girl? I can't stop thinking about her.

Class ended and he had to speak with his instructor. He learned that he actually had high marks and the offered him an apprenticeship in his electrical company. Darren didn't accept right away. He had to figure out how to juggle things.

Soon his day ended and he found Sharon's number in his pocket. He debated calling her and finally gave in to the desire to hear her voice. Smiling, Darren took out his phone and dialed.

"Hello," she answered on the other end and he was at a loss for words as he heard her sweet voice. It was like music to his ears like a melody of a sweet sounding song.

"Um, may I speak to Sharon?" he finally croaked, picturing her beautiful smiling face looking at him.

He could see her standing right there in front of him with the beautiful smile. No one could melt his heart like her. Sharon smiled, He called; he actually called. she thought. She'd recognize his voice anywhere. "Yes you can, Darren, This is she." She replied.

Darren laughed nervously and then realized he had nothing to say. So he asked her out. "Sharon, would you go out with me sometime? I mean I can understand if you don't'-" before he could finish, she answered.

"Yes Darren, I'd love to go out." Sharon answered excitedly.

They made plans to spend Saturday together. She'd meet Darren at Lenora's Deli on Bellevue for lunch, and they'd decide what to do next.

Sharon drove to Lenora's Deli to meet him; she was excited and nervous. She really liked this guy. He was unlike any man she'd met before. Normally Sharon dated guys like her father, professional, businessmen, doctors; Darren was nothing like those guys. He was huge.

She remembered the first time she saw him. He was at the hospital. His sister had been attacked and he was so sacred. Dr. Kumal asked her to sit with the patient as her relative came in to visit for a bit. He was so handsome and strong.

She hated the girl at first, then she learned she was his sister, and it became imperative that she be cared for. She had to say something to comfort him. When he had to leave, she stayed as close to Clemmie as she could. Eventually Clemmie woke up, and they became fast friends.

One day she was making her rounds and stopped by her room. Clemmie asked her point blank, what was her interest in her baby brother. Sharon laughed at the memory. It seemed that she was just as protective of her brother as he was of her.

"Hey, Sharon. You made it." Darren greeted her with a brief hug. "How are you?"

Smiling, she answered, "I'm fine. Now, let's get this day started." She demanded.

Darren laughed, another bossy woman. What was it about bossy women that attracted him so? "Your wish is my command, Ma'am." he teased bowing slightly. Sharon laughed at his antics.

Sharon smiled at him. He was so darn handsome and strong. She couldn't stop looking at him. He was tall, a little over six feet, dark complexion, low afro, deep brown eyes, and a body the was made for sin. She had no problems imagining what he looked like naked. As a matter of fact, since she'd met him. He starred in most of her midnight fantasies. Her body hummed at the thought of experiencing him first hand. But first, they had to get to know each other, hence today's date.

"Well," Sharon asked, "Are we going to grab lunch or will I have to pass out from hunger?"

Darren laughed. This girl was gorgeous. Toffee colored skin, a cute heart shaped face with dimples. Hair that looked so soft, and a body created just for a man to hold on to. She was curvy and voluptuous. "Well, let's order then; I won't have your fainting be my fault." Soon their waiter came, and they ordered.

Darren and Sharon talked for the longest. He learned that she was the only daughter of a prominent doctor. Her brother was also a doctor as well. Her parents were disappointed that she chose to become a nurse, but she liked caring for people.

He told her about being in the detention center and his kinship with the MacGregors. She learned that he considered them his family. And nothing was more important to him.

They spent the entire day together. Soon it was late, and the they stopped at a cafe and had burgers. Sharon offered to drive Darren home, and he started to refuse. She smiled, "Hmmm, you might as well let me take you home. It will save time when I decide to stalk you," she teased.

Darren laughed, and accepted the ride home. They talked all the way to the apartment that he shared with Kevin. Pulling into the lot, Sharon quipped. "Well, should I escort you to your door to make sure your virtue is safe?" she teased.

Darren chuckled, "Girl, who says I have virtue. I might snatch you inside and you'll learn how corrupt I really am." He teased right back.

Then for a moment the air turned tense and somber. They stared into each other's eyes, not really wanting to part. Then it happened. Darren reached over, pulled her to him and kissed her.

Fireworks exploded inside Sharon's mind as her body took on a life of its own in response to his kiss. She kissed him back as she tried to pull him deeper and deeper into her embrace. Soon they heard a tapping sound, and each looked up to see an annoyed older lady standing outside the car window.

"This here is a decent place. We don't condone that kind of thing here. If you want to engage in such behaviors, you need to move on elsewhere." Then she huffed and then walked off.

Sharon and Darren laughed. "I'm sorry, that's Mrs. Finch. She has strict moral codes. Ignore her." He told Sharon. But Sharon was caressing his skin, reveling in the texture. She'd forgotten all about a nosy old woman, and wanted more than anything for Darren to pull her in his arms and kiss her again. Her gaze burned into him, as his eyes mirrored her fire. He wanted her just as badly.

Darren leaned over and kissed her once more. "Good night, Sharon. Drive carefully, and call me when you get home, Ok." He stated.

"I will." She replied as she kissed him once more. As she drove off, Darren stood watching her leave. For the first time, he was happy. This girl was amazing, and she really liked him. It didn't seem to matter to her that he didn't have much. Smiling, Darren headed to his apartment. He hoped Kevin was home. He wanted to tell someone about his great day. He knew this was a day that would live in his memory forever.

Thank you for reading. Please leave feedback and vote. Chapter Five has to be written, but I will post it as soon as it is finished. Please be patient.