CSI:Miami Road Trip: Unlucky Number 13

Thanks for the reviews. :D

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Gables Estates, house, master bedroom

Lori: *steps into bathroom, opens cupboard*

Tom: *walks over* I'm confused.

Lori: With what? *grabs toilet paper*

Tom: At which point hypothetical or otherwise would I ever be good enough for you?

Lori: *looks at Tom* I thought we weren't friends anymore.

Tom: Okay, consider this. We're the last people on Earth and we have to repopulate the planet.

Lori: *smirks* Tom, if you keep dwelling on what will never be, your head will explode.

Tom: I don't want to be with you, I'm just frustrated that you think I'm not good enough.

Lori: *turns around* You have Anni, I have Scott. What's the problem?

Tom: *grabs hair* You're not getting it. It's the principle of the idea. Why would you not want to be with me even if we were the last people on the planet?

Lori: I wouldn't want to ruin the friendship we have.

Tom: ...We had an intimate relationship before we ever had a friendship.

Lori: Exactly. And if I could go back and do it all again, I'd rather have the friendship.

Tom: *stares at Lori*

Lori: You and Anni were right. We were too close and I'm not even sure a friendship is worth it at this point.

Tom: Wow. You have an amazing talent for ripping people's hearts through their chests.

Lori: Tom, you were the one who texted me.

Tom: Yes, because I wanted to patch things up with my wife, not because I never wanted to see you again! You really think we could avoid each other forever?

Lori: No.

Tom: We needed space from each other so we could get our priorities figured out. But that doesn't mean I stopped caring about you. Jesus, Lori.

Lori: And I'm supposed to read your mind?

Tom: Are my feelings for you not obvious enough?

Lori: *stares at Tom* ...That depends what you mean by that.

Tom: *steps forward, kisses Lori*

Lori: *closes eyes*

Tom: *places hand on Lori's cheek*

Lori: *grabs Tom's chest* ...*pushes Tom* Stop it.

Tom: *stares at Lori*

Lori: We need to get on the same page here.

Tom: I agree.

Lori: I don't want to be on your page.

Tom: You certainly seemed to a minute ago.

Lori: *crosses arms* You're an idiot.

Tom: Sometimes you just have to do what feels right.

Lori: No you don't. You're supposed to do what is right. I let this go on too long and you set me straight. Don't be a hypocrite.

Tom: I already told you, I don't want to be with you.

Lori: Then what was the kiss for?

Tom: ...It seemed like a good idea at the time.

Lori: *frowns*

Tom: Think of it as a parting gift.

Lori: Some gift.

Tom: What, it wasn't good enough?

Lori: ...Wasn't long enough.

Tom: *tilts head* Excuse me?

Lori: *wraps arms around Tom's neck, kisses him*

Tom: *smirks*

Outside of bathroom

Scott: *staring at wall* ...*walks away*

Backyard

Dominick: *pushes Tayla into pool*

Tayla: *screams*

Scott: *runs over* Hey! *jumps into pool*

Dominick: *lifts head*

Scott: *grabs Tayla*

Tayla: *coughs*

Scott: *places Tayla onto pool deck*

Tayla: *shivers*

Scott: *jumps up*

Dominick: *runs*

Scott: *grabs Dominick by the neck* Sit down.

Dominick: *sits*

Scott: *grabs towel from chair, wraps Tayla* What the hell did you think you were doing?

Dominick: *shrugs*

Anni: *runs over* What happened?

Tayla: *lifts arms, crying*

Anni: *picks up Tayla*

Tayla: *crying* Dommy *sniffs* pushed me.

Scott: *grabs Dominick by the collar, smacks him in the rear*

Dominick: *screams, starts to cry*

Scott: Get inside the house. Now.

Dominick: *holds butt, runs away*

Anni: *wipes Tayla's cheek*

Scott: I'm sorry. I thought Tom was watching them.

Anni: Where is he?

Scott: I have a few theories. *steps closer* Is she okay?

Anni: Yeah.

Tayla: *coughs*

Scott: I'll be right back.

House, kitchen

Lori: *opens fridge, grabs milk* ...*shuts fridge*

Scott: Dominick's not returning to the party.

Lori: *looks at Scott* Why?

Scott: I sent him to his room for pushing Tayla into the pool.

Lori: *sigh* Dom.

Scott: Now, if you've finished making out with Tom, Steph's ready for you to cut the cake.

Lori: *blinks*

Scott: *crosses arms*

Lori: ...Okay I can explain.

Scott: You love Tom.

Lori: No. I love making out with Tom.

Scott: How comforting.

Lori: Like you haven't been making eyes at Anni.

Scott: I've been taking care of kids and getting food out there, I haven't had time to 'make eyes' at anyone.

Lori: Okay, I have an idea. Wait here. *runs*

Scott: *sigh*

Upstairs, master bedroom

Lori: *drags Anni into bedroom* Scott, get up here!

Scott: *steps in* What's going on?

Lori: Okay.

Tom: *sits on bed*

Anni: *slaps Tom in the back of the head*

Tom: Ow.

Lori: Since Tom and I were stupid, you two get to be stupid.

Scott: I don't know what that means.

Lori: *opens closet* 7 minutes in Heaven.

Scott: *frowns* Excuse me?

Lori: Come on, haven't you ever played?

Scott: No.

Lori: Anni, have you?

Anni: I think once when I was 15. *looks at Tom* What about you, Casanova?

Tom: *lowers head*

Lori: You and Scott get to make out.

Scott: No.

Anni: Wait, let the girl talk.

Scott: *looks at Anni* This is childish. I'm not condoning it.

Lori: *pushes Scott into closet* Just do it. *shoves Anni into closet, shuts doors*

Tom: *shakes head*

Lori: Why are you giving me that look?

Tom: Try not to be too happy.

Inside closet

Scott: *crosses arms*

Anni: I'm not very happy about what they did either but haven't you ever wanted payback?

Scott: No.

Anni: Lori treats you like garbage, Scott. She clearly doesn't care about your relationship.

Scott: Oh she cares about it. But only when Tom isn't in the room.

Anni: Then it appears we have the same problem. Aside from kicking his ass when I get home, I want to show him right now what he has to lose.

Scott: *slides down wall, sits* We're just going to have to sit here for the next 7 minutes.

Anni: *sits*

4 minutes later

Anni: You have some nice ties.

Scott: Thank you.

Anni: *grabs bottle from shelf* Is this your cologne?

Scott: One of them.

Anni: *sniffs* Oooh. Fruity.

Scott: Lori thinks it's 'too' fruity.

Anni: *shrugs* I like it. A lot of times I find men's cologne to be too spicy and musty. This is refreshing.

Scott: *nods*

Anni: *sigh* Would it be so bad to have one kiss?

Scott: *looks at Anni* Yes.

Anni: How about a peck on the cheek. I don't want to seem lame. I mean, I'm playing 7 minutes in Heaven with the former CEO of the number 1 investment firm on the planet and we're sitting here sniffing cologne?

Scott: *smirks*

Anni: *crawls over* One peck. That's all I ask.

Scott: One.

Anni: *grabs Scott, kisses him*

Scott: *furrows brows*

Anni: *leans back, smiles*

Scott: That wasn't a peck on the cheek.

Anni: *smiling* You're blushing.

Scott: Anni...

Anni: *wipes Scott's lip* See? Lightening didn't strike you down.

Scott: *sigh*

Anni: *lies head on Scott's shoulder* You consider Lori 'the one'.

Scott: I do.

Anni: *takes Scott's hand* Then she must be really different with you than everyone else.

Scott: She's a wonderful mother and a caring person.

Anni: It's important to you that your wife is a good mother.

Scott: Yes. *looks at Anni* That's the foundation of a family.

Anni: What about a good father?

Scott: ...I haven't known very many of those. *scoffs* Except Tom.

Anni: *lifts eyes*

Scott: I respect him, I really do. He is a good man and I hope you two work out.

Anni: If he was as good a husband as he is a father...we wouldn't have a problem.

Lori: *opens closet* I hear a lot of talking but I don't hear a lot of making out.

Scott: *stands* We're finished.

Lori: Why?

Scott: Because we're not 12.

Anni: *steps out*

Tom: Why do you smell like cologne?

Anni: *looks at Scott* I'm taking this. *grabs bottle, walks away*

Tom: *walks away*

Lori: *slaps Scott*

Scott: What was that for?

Lori: Now I feel guilty.

Scott: You should.

Lori: ...You're not going to make me write an essay, are you?

Scott: *frowns*

TBC............................
 
lol! See I'm Psychic ! I knew there was gonna be a closet involved somewhere! lol! Seven minutes in Heaven ! lol! i haven't played that in years! OMG that was so funny ! Where are Katie and Speed they need to be in the closet for seven min. lol! you know Katie will be all over that!

Great update Geni!
 
As bad as their discretion was, I think the total pay off was the fact that Scott and Anni didn't go at it. I have to admit, I'm a bit disgusted by Tom's lack of...ahem, control when it comes to Lori, but if he has his head on straight, he'll step away from it, willingly. He has to wonder at what point does he let go and realize that he has something good with Anni? Still waiting for that realization...

Scott's in it to win it, no matter what Lori does- short from getting high, he's going to take it on the chin. Now if this is right, I don't know, but it's admirable that he's willing to go the distance with his marriage.

Now...if only i could be a fly on the wall with Tom's ass kicking...

LOL

Awesome update!
 
Thanks for the reviews. :)

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Gables Estates, house, bedroom, 10pm

Lori: *takes off earrings* Steph had fun today. *climbs into bed*

Scott: *staring at book*

Lori: What are you reading?

Scott: Investment Strategies.

Lori: *takes book* How boring. *tilts book upside down* This helps you wind down after a busy day?

Scott: Yes.

Lori: Why don't you just read some porn?

Scott: I'd like to raise my IQ, thank you very much. *grabs book back*

Lori: You're so boring.

Scott: That reminds me. *takes off glasses, pulls paper from drawer*

Lori: What's that?

Scott: A contract.

Lori: Ooh. *smiles*

Scott: A promisory contract.

Lori: *smile fades* Ah nuts.

Scott: This stipulates that you will remain faithful to me for the remainder of our marriage.

Lori: *lifts eyes* ...Are you serious?

Scott: Very. I'm signing the same one.

Lori: What next? A contract stipulating when I eat and go to the bathroom?

Scott: Lori, I'm not trying to control you. I just want us to have a better marriage.

Lori: From the 1800s?

Scott: If you don't sign it...we can't be together anymore.

Lori: That's not fair!

Scott: What's not fair is the revolving door of infidelity.

Lori: *snatches paper* This is not a company and you are not the CEO.

Scott: Nothing else is working.

Lori: *frowns, grabs pen from nightstand* I'm only signing this because I genuinely believe you want to help, however idiotic it is. *scribbles on paper*

Scott: Thank you.

Lori: *throws paper at Scott*

Scott: I really do appreciate this, Lori. This shows you're commited.

Lori: Yeah yeah. Now what? We go over the signature with our blood?

Scott: We go to bed.

Lori: Right because if you stay up and wait for the Contract Faerie, it won't come true.

Scott: *smiles*

Lori: *turns out light* Goodnight.

Scott: Night. *leans over, kisses Lori's cheek*

Lori: *lies down*

Scott: *lies down*

Lori: *stares at ceiling* ...You actually spanked Dominick today.

Scott: *looks at Lori* He could have killed Tayla.

Lori: What do you want to do about him?

Scott: You punish him, right?

Lori: Every time. I've tried time-outs, spankings, reward systems...I mean, the kid's just not getting it.

Scott: What are we doing wrong?

Lori: I don't know. I haven't gotten any complaints from his daycare place.

Scott: He doesn't act out at daycare.

Lori: Apparently not. Just at home.

Scott: *sits up* Maybe we need to find out what's going on there.

Lori: You think something at the daycare is making him act out at home?

Scott: Maybe.

Lori: *sigh* Great.

Scott: How do you feel about taking him out of daycare? See if that helps.

Lori: Scott, I don't have time to run around chasing Dominick all day. I have a job, I have meetings, I-

Scott: I'm here.

Lori: Take Dom somewhere. The zoo!

Scott: He doesn't like the zoo.

Lori: Museum?

Scott: That's even worse than the zoo.

Lori: Take him to New York.

Scott: *looks at Lori*

Lori: He might have fun.

Scott: ...What would we do?

Lori: I don't know, take him to the Empire State Building.

Scott: And then what?

Lori: Scott, he's your son. Spend time with him. I don't care where and I don't care how.

Scott: *nods*

New York, APL Financial, 90th floor

Dominick: *runs off elevator*

Scott: Dom!

Dominick: *climbs onto reception desk*

Scott: *grabs Dominick*

Bob: *walks down hallway, smiles* Hey! It's my favourite Finch.

Scott: *looks at Bob*

Bob: What are you doing here?

Scott: Oh just getting Dom out of the house for a while.

Bob: You had to travel a thousand miles for that?

Scott: Lori insisted.

Bob: Hey Dom...you like candy?

Dominick: *nods*

Bob: Excellent. I think I have something for you in my office then.

Dominick: *struggles*

Scott: *places Dominick on floor*

Dominick: *runs*

Bob: Come on back with me. *walks away*

Scott: *follows*

Office

Dominick: *sits in chair, munches jellybeans*

Bob: You're looking healthy.

Scott: Thanks. What have you been up to lately?

Bob: Jeff and I are thinking about adopting.

Scott: How's that working out?

Bob: Not so great. I mean, kids are great. I love kids. But if I'm going to raise a child, I'd rather do it from infancy, you know? Jeff wants a toddler.

Scott: I see.

Bob: *sits on desk, crosses arms* Of course, we run into the 'two single fathers' wall and nobody wants to pass on our forms.

Scott: There have to be some other options out there.

Bob: Well, there's invitro but neither one of us has a uterus.

Scott: *smiles*

Bob: *scratches head* I suppose surrogacy is an option. But then we can't both be the biological father. It's frustrating, to say the least.

Scott: I can imagine.

Bob: But *claps* life will go on and I'm sure we'll work something out.

Dominick: *swings feet* The white ones are yucky.

Scott: *places hand on Dominick's head* Yeah, nobody likes the white jellybeans.

Bob: I don't suppose you're ready to come back to work yet.

Scott: *lifts eyes* Why, you have an opening?

Bob: April does. She needs an advisor.

Scott: You mean an assistant.

Bob: It's a productive job.

Scott: *lowers eyes*

Bob: ...Is it the woman thing?

Scott: I have no problem working for women.

Bob: Kimberly was a bit of a bitch though.

Scott: Yeah, she kind of ruined it.

Bob: She may as well have had you on a leash with a studded collar.

Scott: You should have seen what was in her desk.

Bob: *smirks*

Dominick: Momma's a bitch.

Scott: Dom.

Dominick: *lifts head* You're a bitch.

Scott: *frowns*

Bob: Sorry, did I start something?

Scott: No, it's alright. Lori had a headstart.

TBC............................
 
:guffaw: DOM! That child is hilarious...he really is.... I can't help but laugh at his antics ( most of which would get a smack down elsewhere). I love how Lori insisted for Scott to take him out of the state to get a breather...I can so understand her reasons though:)

Aw...Bob wants a kid. I think he should have one, he'd be an awesome Dad. I hope he can find a way...

Awesome update!
 
Yeah it all sound so cute when they are little! but wait till they get older and start using those words at school and have their mouths washed out with soap a few times! lol!

Hmm! so Bob and Jeff want a kid! well heres a Capital Idea Ted! give them Dom! lol! then Lori and Scott can just have another one to replace him! What a fantastic Idea!

great update Geni!
 
Thanks for the reviews! :D

Anni said:
DOM! That child is hilarious...he really is.... I can't help but laugh at his antics ( most of which would get a smack down elsewhere).
Click to expand...

Hehe. Almost like Dennis the Menace. I wonder if he'll fashion himself a slingshot in the next little while and shoot rocks at Stephie. :p Or maybe he'll set Stephie on fire. Seems to be his M.O, heh. :lol:

Flash said:
Hmm! so Bob and Jeff want a kid! well heres a Capital Idea Ted! give them Dom! lol! then Lori and Scott can just have another one to replace him! What a fantastic Idea!
Click to expand...

Aw, I'm not sure Bob would survive Dominick. :lol:

Heh. I should have another chapter up later tonight or tomorrow.
 
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Miami, condo, 2pm

Speed: *wipes table*

Brook: Can I watch TV?

Speed: Yes but keep it low.

Brook: *jumps from chair, runs*

Anni: *walks in*

Speed: *looks at Anni* Hey, Brook's in the den.

Anni: *smiles, walks over* Got you something. *lifts stuffed cow*

Speed: *looks at cow* What's that?

Anni: *smiling* This is Sober the cow. This little bell around his neck commemorates 2 years of sobriety.

Speed: *smirks*

Anni: Congrats.

Speed: Thanks.

Anni: *wraps arms around Speed*

Speed: *hugs Anni*

Anni: *kisses Speed's cheek* So. *steps back* What are you going to do to celebrate?

Speed: Have a beer.

Anni: *frowns*

Speed: *smiles* I'm going to spend a nice quiet evening at home.

Anni: Excellent. Maybe a romantic night with Katie?

Speed: I've given up on that.

Anni: Why?

Speed: She can't seem to take a hint.

Anni: Have you tried...being more direct? Because she tells me the same thing about you.

Speed: She does?

Anni: Yeah.

Speed: What do you suggest I do? She doesn't like romantic dinners. She thinks they're tacky and fake.

Anni: Maybe a movie?

Speed: We're not 16.

Anni: *smiles* Maybe a regression would help. At the very least, you'll be on Katie's maturity level.

Speed: Hilarious.

Anni: I'll take Brook for the night. You kids have fun.

Speed: *stares at Anni*

Anni: What?

Speed: You're taking Brook?

Anni: Uh, yeah. Might make the 'getting closer' thing a little easier.

Speed: *scratches head*

Anni: Separation anxiety?

Speed: This sounds stupid but the last time I let my baby go, she ended up in Colombia.

Anni: Sweetie, Brook's going to be in Biscayne.

Speed: I know.

Anni: She'll be fine. Have some quality time with Katie.

Speed: *nods*

Master bedroom, 7pm

Katie: You want to tell me why I'm getting dressed up? Are we going to a strip club?

Speed: We were encouraged to have a night out.

Katie: *turns around, smiles* Look at you, all dressed up.

Speed: *stares at Katie*

Katie: *smile fades* ...What? *looks down* Is my dress too slutty?

Speed: *shakes head* Not at all. You look...great.

Katie: *lifts head*

Speed: *steps closer, places hands on Katie's shoulders* You're beautiful.

Katie: *smirks*

Speed: *leans over, kisses Katie*

Katie: *wraps arms around Speed*

Speed: Love you.

Katie: *smiles* I love you.

Gables Estates, house, 8:30pm

Scott: *walks in, adjusts Dominick into arms*

Lori: *walks downstairs* Hey, how was New York?

Scott: Uneventful.

Lori: *smiles* Wonderful. *grabs Dominick*

Dominick: *wraps arms around Lori's neck*

Lori: Anni called. She's having an issue with some of her investments and she wants you to take a look.

Scott: Did she say what kind of investments?

Lori: I think some bonds.

Scott: *nods*

Lori: You can head over there right now if you want, she just got off the phone with me.

Scott: You sure?

Lori: Yeah, go ahead.

Scott: I'll be back in a little while.

Biscayne Park, house

Anni: *opens door*

Scott: *smiles* Hey.

Anni: Hi, come on in.

Scott: *steps in*

Living room

Anni: *sits on couch* Okay, here's the paperwork.

Scott: *sits*

Anni: Now, I purchased these bonds 5 years ago and I want to cash them out.

Scott: *grabs papers*

Anni: But I don't want to pay commission.

Scott: Okay so you don't want to take it to a stocks and bonds broker-dealer.

Anni: Right. Where do I take it?

Scott: You can take it to a Federal Reserve branch. You won't have to pay commission and I don't believe there's any fees.

Anni: Great.

Scott: *looks at Anni* And we couldn't do this over the phone?

Anni: I wanted you to see the papers.

Scott: They're pretty straight-forward.

Anni: You're the expert.

Scott: ...Is Tom home?

Anni: No. He had to work late. Truthfully, I had a bit of an alterior motive in wanting you here.

Scott: I got that impression.

Anni: ...I'm cashing out these bonds because we're a little short on money. And um...by a little, I mean a lot.

Scott: *tilts head* What happened?

Anni: I still have some outstanding medical bills. I make monthly payments but I had take a pay cut at work.

Scott: What do you currently owe on the medical bills?

Anni: 80 grand.

Scott: *stares at Anni*

Anni: I haven't told Tom. And the bonds will only cover maybe 2% of the bills.

Scott: It's a rough position to be in.

Anni: *sigh* Yeah. *rubs forehead* I don't want to ask you to for money, that's just not how I was raised but I don't know what else to do.

Scott: I understand.

Anni: I'm sorry.

Scott: *smiles* I'll take care of it.

Anni: You will?

Scott: Mhm.

Anni: *wraps arms around Scott*

Scott: *smirks*

Anni: Thank you.

Scott: No problem.

Anni: *lets go, grabs Scott's hand* You're a life saver.

Scott: I'm just happy to help.

Restaurant, 9pm

Katie: *spins spaghetti*

Speed: *sips water*

Katie: Anni gave you a stuffed cow?

Speed: It was sweet.

Katie: Sounds stupid to me. Aren't you supposed to get some sort of chip for being sober?

Speed: Not always.

Katie: When are you going to finish?

Speed: *lifts brow* Finish what?

Katie: Not drinking.

Speed: ...Katie, this isn't a phase.

Katie: I thought you were like a vegetarian. It's a choice, right?

Speed: No.

Katie: Oh. So you're going to be boring forever.

Speed: You don't need to drink to have fun.

Katie: Then let's have some fun. *grabs Speed by the tie*

Speed: Um, not in public.

Katie: *rolls eyes* We're dancing, Tim.

Speed: I don't find that fun.

Katie: You will. Now get out there before I set your ass on fire.

Speed: The idea's becoming more attractive by the second.

TBC...........................
 
Lol! Oh lord whats Speed gotten himself into! Well maybe they will get a little closer even if its on the dance floor! Something tells me that Speed can actually dance hes just being stubborn about it!

What is up with Anni borrowing money from Scott? 80g's Lori is gonna hit the roof! I'm sure its hard to pay and everything but I'm not sure this is going to sit well with Lori, Not to mention Tom if he find out about it!

Great update Geni!
 
I have to agree with Flash. Neither Lori nor Tom is going to look at this as a good thing. Always...ALWAYS truth is the way to go. Because without it, Tom's first to say, 'so you go to him to get help to fix your problems?' and Lori can say, "so you're paying her now?" Bad all the way wrong...

LOL, Katie...Sweetie, don't smack a good thing down. Be thankful that he's still interested, which at this point he must be vested. I do find it cute that they love each other...

Awesome update!
 
Thanks for the reviews! :)

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Gables Estates, house, 8am

Tayla: *jumps onto couch*

Dominick: *pushes Tayla off couch*

Tayla: *frowns* MEANIE! *shoves Dominick*

Dominick: *frowns* BITCH. *shoves Tayla*

Lori: Hey! *walks in* What did I tell you about your language?

Dominick: *looks at Lori*

Lori: Hush. Mommy's trying to work. *walks away*

Dominick: *kicks Tayla*

Tayla: *throws pillow*

Kitchen

Lori: *sits at table, hammers on laptop*

Tom: And you want another one of those.

Lori: What I want doesn't matter, apparently.

Tom: *shrugs* That's Scott I guess. You picked him.

Lori: *lifts eyes* It wouldn't matter if I had picked you. You're sterile.

Tom: *lowers eyes, picks up cup* Yeah. Right. *sips coffee*

Lori: ...I didn't mean to bum you out.

Tom: You didn't. I'm perfectly happy just having Tayla. I'd rather have her than the ability to have a hundred thousand more.

Lori: That's almost sweet.

Tom: Comes straight from the heart.

Lori: *smirks*

Anni: *walks downstairs* Did you repaint your bathroom?

Lori: Yeah, Dominick set some toilet paper on fire.

Anni: Yikes. *sits* That doesn't sound good.

Lori: Don't worry, he hasn't done it since. Scott has effectively ruined his love for fire.

Tom: Do I want to know what Scott did to him?

Lori: *furrows brows* He's not sadistic, Tom.

Tom: That you know of.

Lori: *throws bagel*

Tom: Ow. *rubs forehead*

Anni: Where is he, anyway? I thought he wasn't going back to work.

Lori: He's not. At least not yet. Riley wanted to do a fitting.

Anni: Oh he should have brought Tom with him.

Tom: I'm not wearing designer garbage. I'm a cop, not a fashionista.

Lori: Maybe the suspects would-

Tom: Respect me?

Anni: You do tend to wear the same old shirt all the time.

Tom: I wear what makes me comfortable. It's god-awful in Miami as it is with the damned heat.

Lori: Then why did you move here?

Tom: Better access to drugs.

Lori: I see.

Anni: But now that you don't need them anymore, you decided to stay because...

Tom: I'm lazy. Too much effort to go back to Jersey.

Anni: *smiles* Cute.

Tom: *smirks*

Lori: Laziness. An excellent quality in a husband and father.

Tom: Why do you have to do that? It was a joke.

Lori: Most jokes are said with some truth. That's why they're funny.

Tom: I get it, okay? Scott's better than me in every way. He's more handsome, his resume looks better than mine, he has more money, he's probably better in bed and his kids are going to grow up to be lawyers and doctors. I don't know why he's not President of the United States by now.

Lori: Tom, y-

Tom: But at the end of the day, I still love my family and I wouldn't trade them for the biggest promotions and all the money and respect in the world. Because unlike Scott, I don't give a damn what someone in a cubicle down the hall thinks of me.

Lori: *frowns* Clearly you don't know him that well at all.

Tom: Really? You don't think Daddy instilled a penchant for perfection and arrogance in his little boy? Isn't that why he made CEO in 4 months and then collapsed under the pressure? I guess Joe America couldn't be all he could be.

Lori: At least his father wasn't a convicted sex offender who was stealing morphine from the hospital where he worked. And I'm guessing he didn't drown his wife in the tub while all the kids were off to summer camp. What a wonderful role model.

Tom: *stares at Lori* ...If I wasn't such a gentleman, I'd kick your ass.

Lori: Don't flatter yourself. *stands* You want to kick my ass, we'll do it outside like adults.

Tom: You mean children. That's all you'll ever be. Underneath it all, you're still a cowering little 5-year old clawing your way out of a gutter that's too deep.

Lori: *jumps across table, grabs Tom* UGH!

Tom: *falls over*

Lori: *punches Tom*

Anni: *stands, grabs Lori* Enough. Both of you.

Lori: *kicking*

Tom: *stands, wipes lip* Thank you for proving my point.

Lori: *shoves Anni, straightens out shirt* You're so...IRRITATING! UGH! I can't believe I actually felt something for you once.

Tom: Was that before or after you stole my money and my car?

Lori: You're still going on about that? That was a million years ago. Get over it.

Anni: *takes Tom's arm* Yeah I think you've been plenty compensated.

Tom: What's that supposed to mean?

Lori: Oh, you didn't hear? Scott paid off your debt.

Tom: *frowns* What debt?

Lori: The one Anni's been hiding from you this whole time.

Tom: *looks at Anni*

Anni: I have some...outstanding medical bills.

Tom: How much.

Anni: ...80 grand.

Tom: 80 grand? And what did Scott get in return?

Anni: *frowns* Nothing.

Tom: Right, he just gives away that much money out of the goodness of his heart.

Anni: I'm not sure I like what you're implying.

Tom: If it wasn't such a big deal, you wouldn't have hidden it from me.

Anni: I didn't want you to freak out.

Tom: Is there anything I'm good for? Because it's clearly not love or money. I'm starting to feel like a live-in babysitter.

Anni: Scott was just helping us out, Tom. That's all.

Tom: So now we're just going to run to Scott everytime we have a problem.

Anni: No. But I didn't think not asking was worth losing our house. Or not being able to put our kids through college. We've both struggled enough, I think we deserve a little help.

Tom: *stares at Anni*

Anni: Don't you?

Tom: ...*nods* Yeah.

Anni: Okay. So we're alright.

Tom: I guess.

Anni: Thank you.

Lori: *crosses arms* Where's the grandstanding? The 'end of discussion's? You people make me sick.

Tom: Sorry, I guess I don't share Scott's need to be in control.

Lori: He doesn't control me.

Tom: Sure he doesn't. Just remember that the next time he makes you write an essay because you came home an hour late.

Lori: For the record, he did that because he didn't want us to lose our children and it wasn't because I was an hour late getting home.

Anni: *claps* Who's hungry?

TBC............................
 
*crickets* Oo...What a conversation to have. I almost thought it was going to come to blows , and well...it did between Lori and Tom. It seems as if they are finding more and more reasons to distance themselves- or this could lead to a build up, which is something I'm not advocating. I'm glad that Lori SPILLED the beans... even though she could've had a bit of tact... Now that it's out, Tom knows, had his moment and now things are cool, there should not be any need to go there anymore. I love the way their relationships ebb and flow...lol

Awesome update!
 
Thanks for the review! Hee. :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Miami Beach, 8am next day

Tom: *sitting on towel, eyes closed*

Lori: *walks over, kicks sand* What the hell are you doing?

Tom: Meditating.

Lori: You're supposed to be watching Tayla play in the ocean.

Tom: Scott's got her.

Lori: Scott's got my kids. Not yours. Stop sleeping and get out there.

Tom: I'm not sleeping, I'm meditating. I'm trying to find inner peace.

Lori: *pulls off towel* Sure you are. You going to play some volleyball with Scott and kick his ass this time?

Tom: *opens eyes* If I recall correctly, I'm the one who kicked his ass last time.

Lori: *sits on towel, puts on shades* He begs to differ.

Tom: He was probably high.

Lori: *looks at Tom* I have money riding on you.

Tom: ...You bet against your husband.

Lori: I'm investing wisely.

Tom: *smiles* You think I'm a better athlete.

Lori: No. I'm basing this on stamina, not strategy. You have a greater lung capacity than he does.

Tom: *smile fades* ...Is that just for sports or other things?

Lori: *punches Tom's arm*

Tom: Ow.

Near ocean

Scott: *swings Tayla into the air* Jump over the waves!

Tayla: *screams, giggles*

Steph: Watch out for sharks, Tay!

Tayla: Where!

Steph: Here! RAWR! *grabs Scott's waist*

Scott: AH! *falls over*

Steph: See?

Scott: *sits up* You're quite the shark. *wipes face*

Steph: *grabs Scott's arm* Let's swim further out.

Scott: You know what, I think we'll stay closer to the shore. Tayla's not as strong as you are in the water.

Tayla: *splashes Steph in the face*

Steph: *coughs*

Tayla: *giggles*

20 minutes later

Tom: *picks up ball* Okay Scotty, prepare to lose 50 bucks.

Scott: That's all we're wagering?

Tom: Well, I'd wager a hundred million but you're the only one who'd be able to pay it out.

Scott: So you're worried about losing.

Tom: *laughs* I don't lose.

Scott: I guess we'll find out.

Tom: *jumps up, serves ball*

Scott: *runs backward, jumps*

Beach

Lori: *staring ahead*

Katie: *runs over, sits* What'd I miss?

Lori: You're just in time to catch the match.

Katie: Ooh.

Lori: Aren't you supposed to be at work?

Katie: I'm not allowed to work the same days as Anni anymore. Apparently I'm 'disruptive' or something. Where are the kids?

Lori: Making sand castles.

Katie: Scott and Tom seem to be having fun.

Lori: *takes off shades, smiles* It's like a wonderful dream.

Katie: *looks at Lori*

Lori: Mm.

Katie: Which one are you rooting for?

Lori: At this point, I could care less who wins.

Katie: *tilts head* I bet Scott wins.

Lori: Why?

Katie: He's a businessman. Lots of pent-up anger.

Lori: *smirks*

Katie: On the other hand, Tom always feels the need to prove his manhood.

Lori: Tom will win.

Katie: I thought you didn't care.

Lori: The side of me that wants money cares.

Katie: Looks like you're about to lose some.

Lori: Damn. I should have known. His testosterone only comes out around Tom.

30 minutes later

Tom: *stands, wipes sand from chest* I forfeit.

Scott: Already? Come on, Jersey girl, stop boo-hooing and serve.

Tom: *narrows eyes* I'm just giving you an opportunity to win so your wife doesn't think you were the one who got picked last in P.E.

Scott: Right, you're letting me win. That's why you're face planting into the ground and getting stuck in the net every time.

Tom: Now I know how you really made CEO in 4 months.

Scott: Life is a cut-throat bitch. I'm not going to apologize for kicking its ass. Or yours.

Tom: Someone should really get you castrated.

Scott: Why, you haven't found a support group in which to share your misery yet?

Tom: I'm not the one who needs a support group. Unlike some people, at least I've been clean for 7 years straight.

Scott: Congratulations for not needing drugs to be a failure. You're doing excellently on your own.

Tom: *stares at Scott* I'm a failure. Why? Because I can keep a job longer than 6 months and my kids don't refer to me as "that guy who abandoned me"?

Scott: *places hands on hips* You want to come over here and say that to my face?

Tom: *crosses arms* You heard what I said.

Scott: *walks underneath net*

Beach

Katie: Uh oh.

Lori: Shut up, shut up.

Net

Scott: Why don't we settle this like men.

Tom: You want to knock out my teeth? Fine. Explain that to Stephanie afterward. I'm sure she'll appreciate the example of how real men solve their problems. Then you can explain to her why the concept of 'my gun is bigger than yours' or 'my god is the bestest' led to world peace and Happy Days.

Scott: You're actually throwing social commentary at me to get out of a fight.

Tom: No, I'm trying to get you to see how stupid you look right now. I'm not going to fight you, even if I wanted to.

Scott: Right, you've transcended into a higher state-of-mind where violence isn't the answer and leprechauns dance about and sacrifice faeries to their rainbow god.

Tom: Now that you've tacked off my religion, is there anything else you wish to insult?

Scott: Not until your next stupid move with my wife.

Tom: I'm not the one who had an 18-month relationship with her behind your back.

Scott: Tom, you haven't stopped having a relationship with Lori since you met.

Tom: Here's the thing. You and I love them, but we can't have them both. So what do you say you stick with your wife and I'll stick with mine.

Scott: Deal.

Tom: *extends hand*

Scott: *grabs Tom's hand*

Tom: ...I don't suppose there's a chance we can just switch for one night.

Scott: No.

Tom: Thought so. It's not like they'd go along with it.

Scott: What if they did?

Tom: What?

Scott: *blinks* What?

Lori: *walks over* I hope we've bypassed the fist-fight.

Tom: Scott has a proposal.

Scott: No I don't.

Tom: Sure you do. We were just talking about it.

Scott: No we weren't.

Tom: *looks at Lori, smiles* He's just shy. He was brought up traditionally. I think. *looks at Scott* Your parents weren't swingers, were they?

Scott: *frowns* My mother wasn't.

Tom: *smiling* See?

Lori: ...Why are we talking about swingers?

Tom: I'll let Scott field that one.

Scott: *staring at Tom*

Tom: Come on, cat got your tongue? You used to be so good at press conferences.

Scott: This isn't a press conference.

Tom: *looks at Lori* Scott wants to swing.

Scott: No I don't.

Lori: *lifts brow* I hope you're talking about that thing kids use in playgrounds.

Tom: Not unless you have a playground in your bedroom.

Scott: He's just being an idiot, don't listen to him.

Tom: Hey if we're all on board, I don't see the problem.

Scott: I'm not on board.

Tom: Sounded like you were a minute ago.

Lori: ...Scott wants to swing.

Scott: No he doesn't.

Tom: Yes he does.

Scott: Would you stop putting words in my mouth?

Tom: Think about it, Lori. It would be a scientific experiment.

Lori: *frowns*

Tom: I'm serious. Assuming we're testing the theory that we'd each be happier with the other one's spouse. I think we'd all learn a valuable lesson.

Lori: *crosses arms* And what if it turns out we really are happier with the other one's spouse?

Tom: Well you can't actually tell that in a day. We'd need at least a weekend in a controlled environment.

Lori: This is why nobody should ever have hired you to become a CSI.

Tom: Hey, I can't help if I'm a scientist at heart. *smiles* A really hot, mad scientist.

Scott: And probably a dead one when Anni hears about it.

Tom: Yeah right. She's the one who wanted 7 Minutes in Heaven.

Scott: *shakes head*

Lori: *grabs Scott's arm* The adults need to talk. *walks away*

Tom: *salutes*

Near ocean

Scott: I hope you aren't considering it.

Lori: ...Maybe he has a point.

Scott: Are you serious?

Lori: We've been beating around the bush and sneaking around on each other for long enough. Maybe what we need is to see if the grass really is greener on the other side.

Scott: And if it is?

Lori: ...Is that something we can gauge over a couple of days? Despite what Tom thinks.

Scott: Probably not. The true test of one's ability to love and live with the other person isn't dependant on a half-baked idea from two guys talking smack in the middle of the beach.

Lori: So you did have a hand in this.

Scott: *sigh* Okay, I have doubts about us. I have for a long time. But that doesn't mean I stopped loving you.

Lori: You think I'd be better off with Tom and you'd be better off with Anni.

Scott: Sometimes.

Lori: *nods*

Scott: ...Should we do it?

Lori: Talk to Anni.

Scott: I'm not talking to Anni. Tom can do it.

Lori: You're afraid of her now?

Scott: I'm afraid of all women.

Lori: *places hand on Scott's chest, walks away*

Miami Lab, Trace, 1pm

Anni: *hangs up phone* Ugh.

Speed: *looks over*

Anni: *shakes head* Men.

Speed: Something I need to collectively apologize for?

Anni: *looks at Speed* Tom just called. He wants to conduct an experiment in which I spend the weekend with Scott and he spends the weekend with Lori.

Speed: *lifts brow* Why?

Anni: Remember when Katie and I used to fight over you?

Speed: Those were the days.

Anni: Yeah well I've just been pulled into the next generation of idiocy.

Speed: ...Scott's on board with it?

Anni: Apparently.

Speed: ...Scott Finch.

Anni: Face it, Tim. He's not as straight-laced as he is in your dreams.

Speed: *frowns*

Anni: *slaps Speed*

Speed: Ow, what was that for?

Anni: Turning my husband into a scientist.

TBC.............................
 
Nice play date. Curiously, Anni's missing, but the job is to blame* eyes Speed*. She never gets to have any fun.

Interesting events come out of this though- A mano v mano volleyball match that Tom obviously loses, morphing into trash talking that curiously leads to...Swinging? oO Hm...There is a step I'm missing here. And not only is it being talked about, but they all seem to be ALL FOR IT....*sigh* must they all be gluttons for punishment?

I have my theories...
A) Scott and Anni deepen their relationsh-...er their attempt at not having one... Leading to broken hearts. As much as I adore the idea of Scott and Anni, he's not in love with Anni...Psha, for that matter, Tom's not in love with Anni...You know what, maybe I should just move on to letter B...

B)Tom and Lori really see that the grass is greener on the otherside, and don't forget to leave the feelings at the door at the end of this experiement. Leading me to disliking both of them.

C) No one reacts to this and they all realize they're with the ones they love and will give up this extramatrial wish wash, but still some how manage to be friends....

Now...let's see which one pans out.... My money's on either A or B. There's no way this story's going down with them just spending this time talking...I mean, it's RT right? Someone's heart's going to be broken...coughAnnicough...


Excellent update!
 
Lol! I told you this bunch was closet Swingers! lol! This should be a great experiment! I'm sure that Speed is now thinking that they are all on drugs except for him! lol!

Its a Mad Mad Mad World out there! lol!

great updates Geni!
 
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