The week passed uneventfully with Jake gone to who knew where. It should have been a wonderful time for Ron, but it wasnt. Her heart was breaking day after day as Shane drifted farther and farther away from her.

It seemed as if Shane was in her own world, a world where Ron has no part of. She could not even talk to Shane. Ron for the first time felt like she was truly alone in the world even when they do spend time together like eating lunch at school. At least she can count on Shane for thatto remember to meet her for lunch other than that one time. But even then she was off, off in her own universe.

Ron looked up as Shane entered the room after her night of partying no doubt. Shane we need to talk.

What is there to talk about.

That is all you have to say? Why are you doing this Shane? Why are you being so distant?

Look Ron, Im going to sleep now. We will talk later. Promise

The verbal evasion was wearing thin. Ron just wanted her Shane back.

Ron shook Shanes shoulder trying to wake her up. Shane come on wake up or were going to be late.

Need sleep. You go. Im going to skip. I will see ya later though.

Whatever Shane.

What the heck is going on? Ron just couldnt understand it. God damn it. I have to seat her down and make her talk to me. No matter how long its going to take. Yup its a plan.

Shane cracked her eyes open. Okay, Rons gone. Time to do what you gotta doMaybe in a few more hours. I really do need some sleep.

A few hours later, Shanes eyes opened again. *****! Its almost one already? I was supposed to meet her for lunch. Shane hurriedly dressed and ran out.

It took awhile, but Shane finally tracked her down. Hey you. Sorry Im late.

Whatever Shane. Im not expecting much from you. Not anymore.

Now that hurts. You know I ran all the way over here to try to make it on time. Doesnt that count for something.

Yes it would but you have a lot to make up for.

I know. I know. I havent been around much, but I just have a lot on my mind. You know that a lot has happened.

I dont know Shane. I should know better than this and fall for your sweet words.

I know I have a lot to make up for especially the last few days. Give me a chance for lunch at least? Shane gave her a half smile.

The look in Shanes eyes alone could have any girl follow her and in combination with that smile who could resist. Well, she couldntnot when she first saw Shane and not now either. That Shane, she will be trouble someday for all women out there. Well she probably already is. To Shane, Okay, I will give you this one chance. Im not going to take any more of this disappearing act.

No matter what, Shane did not want to lead anyone on with a lie, so she replied, I cant promise anything. But right now all I want to do is have lunch with you.

I guess you got me for now.

Lunch was well lunch. They talked or as much as Shane was willing to open up to anyone.

Shane, this was fun but its time for me to go. I cant be late getting back.

Why dont you just play hooky with me for the rest of the day. I want to spend some time with you.

There is that half smile again, she thought. Im going to regret this arent I.

With that, Shane dragged her away.

The next couple of hours were fun. If anything, Shane was always a fun person to go out with.

Shane checked her watch seeing that it was time, she said, I think it is time that we get back to the house.

Hmm really now.

Yes really. With that Shane leaned in and gave her an intimate kiss. One that promised of a lot more to come.

I think youre right.

They did not even make it to the bedroom before they kissed again just as heatedly as before.

There was no talk of love, no real intimacy, just heat. That was what Shane needed at that instant. Nothing more nothing less.

Clothing disappeared. They had no purpose here, only as obstacles to be overcome. The pair fell onto the bed. Their lips were devouring one another, taking in every taste and texture. Shane trailed her hand down the naked form underneath her hand, kneading the swollen breast eliciting a loud moan.
The door slammed open. The next few words that followed and the emotions behind them would haunt Shane forever. How could you Shane? Especially here? How could you when I love you so?

Shane looked up and saw Ron framed in the doorway. Her tear-streaked face spoke of shock and a deep pain. I have done it now, Shane thought.

Sobbing uncontrollably, she ran into the bathroom slamming the door behind her to block that scene from her vision. It was no use though because in her mind it kept on replaying itself.

Carol, I think you better leave, Shane said, her voice was devoid of any emotions.

Yeah, I think so too. Carol looked at Shane all the while getting dress, but Shanes gaze has not strayed from the bathrooms door where the sobbing from within could still be heard. Im going to let myself out.

Carol walked toward the door and turned back toward Shane before leaving, I have a feeling that I wont be seeing you anytime soon, so be good Shane.

Shane just nodded at her.

Once Carol left, Shane made her way toward the bathroom. Ron I hope you can hear me in thereIm sorry Ron. Im sorry that you have to find out like this. I dont love you as I should. The last thing in the world that I wanted to do was to hurt you, but I was bound to sooner or later. I wish I could be there for you Ron as I should but I cant. I cant protect you all the time and I cant be with you. You may not believe me right now but this is for the best.

For the first time since she met Ron, Shane was glad that a barrier stood between them. Shane didnt think she could have said what she had said otherwise. Head bent, Shane left Ron to herself.

Five minutes went by, then thirty, an hour then finally Rons sobbing ebbed to a hiccup. A deep breath and then another. With every passage of air, Ron gathered herself. Come on Ron. You have to be strong. This is not the end of the world. Your heart may be in pieces but at least you still have those pieces. You have survived your parents death, and you will survive this too.

By now anger has replaced Rons pain, allowing her to gather her strength. There is only one thing that you can do now, Ron said to herself.

Up on the tree for her nightly vigil, Shane watched on as Ron entered the living room and made a phone call. With that Shane knew that it was over.