The sun was slowly descending for the day over the edge of the ocean.  The golden film of the sun made the ocean look it had a patch of melted butter over its surface.  The sunset was magnificent.  And it was carefully being watched by a special someone in the beach house they occupied.  A smile crept over the face of this intriguing individual, who was in awe of the beautiful sunset being observed.  The sun finally took its final dip into the bottoms of the ocean and in its place rose the creamy white ball of the moon, surrounded by thousands of sparkling stars.  The night was enchanting and magical.  It was a night made for lovers only and the individual hoped this night would repeat itself again come one week from this present day.  Continuing to smile mysteriously, B, as she liked to refer herself as, walked over to the desk where she had been busily working on the invitations.  She had been working on her plan for a month now and, finally, the time had come to put her hard work to the test.  She carefully looked over her handy work and was pleased with what she had crafted.  She brought her fingers to her mouth and made the sound of someone praising their work.  The invitations were perfect.  B slowly looked over at the guest list, which held roughly over fifty guests, but there were eleven guests who were the most important on the list.  These guests had to attend the ball if her plan was to work.  She put down the list and once again looked over one of the invitations and read it silently:
 

You are cordially invited to the 1st annual Sunset Lovers Masquerade Ball being
held on September 11, 1999 at 8pm at the Lansing Mansion.  Your presence is heavily needed for you will form part of a famous couple from the past.  Please turn over the invitation to see who you are to come dressed as.  Wear a mask, for it is mandatory to keep your identity as concealed as possible.
 

The evening is being sponsored by someone who chooses to be kept anonymous. It is preferred that you tell no one of this event. Do not worry, there is no harm or wrongdoing coming forth.  This is just an event to promote a special cause which will be revealed the night of the ball. Only know that the night will be full of delight and above all, magical and spectacular surprises.  This night will prove to be a an evening to remember….and one you will never forget.
 

See you at the big event!!
 
 
 

She was pleased with what it said.  It offered just enough intrigue to surely bring out the curiosity in all the guests.  But what B hoped most for was to peak the curiosity of the eleven guests she most wanted to attend the ball.  She read over her list again of the fifty guests invited and then gently circled the eleven which mattered the most to her:
 
 
 

Annie Douglas

Ben Evans

Meg Cummings

Maria Torres

Antonio Torres

Ricardo Torres

Gabi Martinez

Casey Mitchum

Sara Cummings

Michael Bourne

Vanessa Hart
 
 

…..they were all needed to complete her plan.  A plan which was sure to be successful once the ball commenced…..
 
 
 

Ricardo was sitting in his loft, drinking a beer, contemplating on the past few weeks in his life.  He was distraught and depressed.  He was unable to work a full day due to the state of mind he had been in since discovering that Gabi and Antonio had betrayed him by having slept with each other.  He had exploded upon finding out and even gotten to the point where he had tried to hurt Gabi, but God had touched his heart and prevented him from doing just that.  He jumped from the chair he was sitting in, pacing around the loft aimlessly, until his anger took over once again and he threw the beer bottle in his hand across the room, hitting the wall above his bed.  He stared at the shattered pieces of glass and sat back down again, placing his head in his hands.  He could barely stand to look at Gabi or Antonio.  They had tried many times to see him but he had managed to find a way to deviate their visits.  He was in pain and he wanted to suffer alone.  His eyes settled on the mail on the kitchen table. There was the mail he had neglected to open for a few days now.  One particular envelope caught his eye.  It had a gold seal in the corner and his address was written in calligraphy. He picked up the envelope and eyed it curiously before finally opening it.  As Ricardo read the invitation, his eyes grew even more curious.  He flipped over the card and saw who he was being asked to come dressed as.  He let out a dry laugh.  He then realized that that had been the first time he had laughed in a month in a half.  Why would I be invited to this? He thought.  He threw the invitation down and proceeded to get up again, heading for the refrigerator to get another beer.  He stopped at the kitchen counter and looked back at the invitation lying on the table.  He thought hard before finally picking up his keys of the table and heading out the door.  Ricardo had decided to visit the costume shop…..
 
 
 

Ben was sitting on the beach, watching Benjy make a sand castle.  He was lost in thought as he observed his son.  Meg had refused to come back to him until he resolved his feelings for Maria.  In the past month, Ben had rediscovered feelings he had once had for Maria.  It had been the trip to Seattle which had made him face what he had been trying so desperately to conceal.  He didn’t know what to do.  He loved Meg with all of his heart but thoughts of Maria continued to linger in his mind.  Ben shook his head roughly as he tried to shake the images of both women from his mind for the time being.  He began to rummage through his briefcase.  He figured if he tried to work he could temporarily take his mind off of the two women who occupied his every thoughts.  He pulled out paperwork and out fell an envelope which fell to the sand.  Ben looked at it curiously.  The gold seal on the envelope shined brightly with the reflection of the sun.  He opened it and read it, completely bewildered by its contents.  He flipped the card over and let out a hearty laugh.  “What is this?” He spoke out loud to himself.  Benjy came over to him and looked at what Ben was reading.
 
 
 

“What are you reading Daddy?” Benjy looked at his father with the same sheepish grin Ben always loved.  Ben smiled back at his son and patted his head.
 
 

“It’s nothing Benjy……just something Daddy might be thinking of attending to get my mind of things.”……
 
 
 

Vanessa was at the her desk, thinking about the expose she was writing on a Francesca’s corrupt, criminal mind.  She was having a hard time concentrating.  She kept looking over at the bouquet of roses Michael had sent her that morning.  She slowly leaned over and smelled one of the red roses.  The fragrance was breathtaking and it made her love Michael even more.  She was in a happy daze whenever she thought of Michael…she knew she always would be.  As Vanessa continued to day dream, the mail boy dropped an envelope on her desk which immediately caught her attention.  Vanessa picked up the envelope and eyed the gold seal.  She developed the look of a little girl at Christmas and eagerly opened the envelope.  Upon reading the contents, Vanessa chuckled lightly and her laugh grew louder as she flipped over the card to see who she would be portraying.
Vanessa stared off into space as she placed her chin on her palms.  A smile slowly crept up. "Hmmmmmm…..could this be another one of Michael’s surprises?” Vanessa couldn’t wait for the ball to come….
 
 
 

Annie was seated at the Java Web, thinking over what she was going to do with her inheritance.  Now that Gregory was standing trial for Francesca’s murder, she would still get the money that she had coming to her and this made Annie extremely gleeful.  Her smile slowly vanished as she thought of Maria and her family.  Annie had discovered what had happened with Ricardo and Antonio and she knew that Ricardo was having a difficult time dealing with the betrayal of his love and trust.  Annie had always admired Ricardo and seeing him so desolute actually affected her.  What’s this? She thought. Me, actually care about someone other than myself? But Annie did.  She cared about certain people and the Torres family happened to be one of the few she cared for.  She shrugged as she picked up the envelope she had already opened and once again flipped over the card.  How fitting the outfit was?  Annie thought slyly.  She couldn’t wait for the party to begin…..
 
 
 

Casey and Michael were atop the lifeguard tower, looking over the various beach goers playing in the water and in the sand.  Michael was seated in a chair, with his feet crossed on the ledge while Casey sat over the ledge, with his arms crossed.  Michael was telling Casey about the dozen red roses he had sent Vanessa that morning.  He had a huge smile on his face and Casey envied his friends happiness.  Casey was still having problems with Sara and he didn’t know how to go about them any longer.  He didn’t want to give up on his relationship with her.  He really loved Sara and he was willing to work harder to make things work for them.  He looked over the ocean and contemplated his thoughts when he felt a tap on his shoulder.  He looked over and he found Michael looking at him, a little worriedly.
 
 

“You ok man?” Michael thought maybe he was boasting about his love life too much and hoped Casey hadn’t been bored by what he was saying.
 
 

Casey smiled at his friend.  Michael was one of his best friends but he didn’t want to dampen his spirits with his problems.  “I’m fine….I’m just thinking maybe I should send Sara some flowers….you know….brighten her day a bit.”  Casey slapped Michael on the back. “Thanks for the idea……Listen I’m gonna take a walk on the beach and see how things are going out there.  Will you cover from up here.”
 
 

Michael smiled at his friend in return. “Yeah I got it…take off for awhile.” Michael could see that Casey needed a little time away alone.
 
 

Casey jumped off the lifeguard stand and ran towards the water.  He thought back to Sara and her beautiful blonde hair.  He stopped and laughed at that thought.  He immediately remembered the invitation he had received the night before.  He was actually excited about the costume he was going to be going in.  With everything that was going on in his life, this was exactly what Casey knew he needed……
 
 
 

Back at the lifeguard stand, Michael had pulled out invitation he had opened earlier that morning.  He had wanted to mention it to Casey, but felt a little embarrassed by the whole thing.  Besides, the invitation had clearly stated to not inform anyone.  As dangerous as this could be, Michael was intrigued.  He had a gut feeling that everything was on the up and up.  He smiled as he watched Casey talking to a little girl in her bathing suit.  He thought maybe Vanessa had something to do with this whole party…….
 
 
 

Antonio sat at the mission, unable to concentrate on his work.  He had been unable to really put his attention on all of his duties since Ricardo had discovered his betrayal.  He was even more distraught because of the effect this was having on Gabi.  She was heartbroken by the whole thing and barely had the energy to do anything herself.  The both of them had tried countless times to see Ricardo after he had tried to hurt Gabi.  Antonio thought back to that incident.  He knew his brother was not himself.  He would never have tried to hurt Gabi without being severely provoked and Antonio had contributed in his brother’s downfall.  He threw the papers on the desk all over his office as he jumped from his seat in disgust.  A look of pain showered over his face.  He couldn’t stand that he was unable to do anything to help either Gabi or Ricardo.  He sat back down on the edge of his desk and thought pensively.  As much as he loved his brother, he couldn’t help but be more worried about Gabi.  He loved her so much that there were times he could barely breathe.  Now that everything was out in the open, he sometimes caught himself thinking about the life he could have with Gabi……the life they both wanted.  He grabbed his head and shook it roughly. NO! He thought. I can’t think that way!!!  Gabi had not really been as open as he had wanted her to be concerning her feelings.  They were hanging on to each other tightly but she was keeping herself at a distance and it killed him.  He sighed and bent down to retrieve the papers he had thrown onto the floor.  As he picked them up, he noticed an envelope with a gold seal on the front.  Antonio eyed the envelope curiously and forgot all about the papers strewn on the floor.  He stood and opened the envelope, all the while looking sternly at the piece of paper in his hand.  What he read genuinely surprised him, especially when he turned the card over.  A look of pure astonishment crossed his handsome face.  He sat back down on the desk and looked over across the room.  He gently laughed as he reread the invitation.
“Yup…it says Antonio Torres.”  He said out loud.  His thoughts slowly drifted back to Gabi and Ricardo and his frustrations once again resumed.  He breathed out loudly.  What Antonio needed was a little diversion and this seemed to provide him the perfect opportunity to escape his problems, if only for a brief while…..
 
 
 

Sara was working at Shockwave, having just served Gabi a turkey sandwich.  Sara was genuinely worried about Gabi.  Ever since Gabi had returned from El Paso, she had been sad in her appearance.  She didn’t know what was going in with her and only wished she would talk to someone.  Gabi barely even noticed when Sara had dropped off her sandwich, barely acknowledging her.  She sighed as she looked on at her friend and gently switched her thoughts to Casey.  She and Casey were continuing to have problems and her insecurities were stronger than ever concerning Meg.  Casey just couldn’t seem to stay away from Meg, now more than ever since Meg was back at Surf Central and Sara was back with her parents since Gabi had returned.  Sara couldn’t imagine losing Casey.  She loved him more than anything she had ever known.  She looked down at her purse sadly and grabbed the invitation she had opened earlier in the day.  She had been excited when she opened it, especially when she saw who she was going to be dressed as.  It seemed very fitting for her.  Sara had wanted to rush to Casey upon getting the invite to the ball but the card had said specifically not to tell anyone, so she hadn’t.  Sara knew she should take precautions since the party was being given by someone who didn’t want to identify themselves but something inside her kept telling her that his night would be important and above all, romantic.  Sara needed a little romance in her life.  So she wasn’t going to tell Casey…..Sara was going to enjoy whatever the night brought her…..
 
 
 

Gabi took a nibble of the sandwich Sara had brought her and immediately washed it down with water.  Gabi had no appetite and hadn’t felt like eating for weeks now.  She literally had to force herself to eat anything.  Gabi dropped the sandwich and threw her face against her hands.  All she could think of was Ricardo and how much she had hurt him.  It killed to think that she would never see the Ricardo she had originally fallen in love with.  She had stripped that part of him…maybe forever.  He wanted nothing to do with her and avoided her at all costs.  She longed to see him and hear his voice and feel his arms around her but Gabi knew that would never happen again.  She had helped in destroying the once jovial, strong minded man she had known and loved.  Gabi cringed as she thought back to when Ricardo had placed his hands around her throat.  The look of pure hatred had come across his face and that was the only time in her life when she had felt so scared in her life.  Something had prevented him from hurting her and he had slumped against the wall, crying after realizing what he had been about to do.  Gabi, although scared, couldn’t help but approach him.  He had yelled at her to leave him alone and Gabi had obliged.  She ran from the room, in tears herself, not knowing what to do.  That had been the last time she had spoken to him last.  They had seen each other but Ricardo made sure to avoid her in all ways.  She couldn’t stand it, but she knew this was part of the punishment she deserved.  Ricardo’s absence from her life was a punishment so severe, Gabi could barely keep herself together.  Her thoughts shifted to Antonio.  He had been trying to help her through everything, even though he was hurting just as much.
She could barely stand to be around Antonio either.  Her feelings for him were still strong and she was afraid of what would happen if alone with him, so she had been keeping her distance.  Something she knew was frustrating him.  How could she love two men?  Gabi thought.  It was torturous for her and she wanted the pain to go away.  She wanted to hold Ricardo and tell him how much she loved him.  She wanted to erase the feelings she had for Antonio and have things go back to the way they used to be.  But Gabi knew that was impossible.  That would not happen.  The only comfort Gabi had at the moment was the card that was lying beside her sandwich.  Gabi picked it up and stared at it sadly.  She was going to the ball.  It was the only thing she had looking forward to right now.  She couldn’t have Ricardo or Antonio, so she would try to deal with the pain by having a little fun…..
 
 
 

Meg sat at Surf Central, contemplating her life and how complicated things were.  All she ever wanted was to marry Ben and live her life with him.  But that wasn’t going to be possible any time soon.  She was no longer going to stand around and wait for Ben to make a decision on who he really wanted.  Meg had had enough.  Still, she missed him dearly.  Whenever she looked into his eyes, she fell into a trance that only he could break.  She missed his gaze on her, his touch, his kiss.  Meg shook her head as she felt the overwhelming sensation of longing whenever she thought of Ben.  She sat down on the couch and crossed her legs, still deep in thought.  She noticed an envelope on the coffee table which caught her eye.  From where she was sitting, it looked like it had a gold seal on it.  Meg leaned in curiously and noticed it was addressed to her.  Her eyes a little wide and she pursed her lips and quickly opened the envelope.  Inside was a card which she read immediately.  As the others had done, she flipped the invitation and laughed heartily at the assignment of the costume.  She threw herself back and kept laughing good naturedly as she reread the card.  Meg could only shake her head and smile.  She once again sat upright and looked straight ahead, a look of determination soon crossed her face. “ Why not!  I’m going…..and I’m going to have fun…….Ben, you’re not the only thing that should make me happy.  I’m going to do my best to take my life back…starting with this Masquerade Ball.” Meg smiled again and thought about her costume……
 
 
 

Maria was cooking in the kitchen trying to get her mind off her problems.  She was terribly worried about her family.  Her family had been ripped at the seams once Ricardo had discovered what had happened between Gabi and Antonio.  He had turned into someone she was not even familiar with anymore.  No one could talk to him and he wanted no one to talk to him.  It broke her heart to think that her brother, once so full of life, was now a victim of his own pain and anger.  There was nothing she or anyone could do for him now, except wait and hope time could heal his heart.  Gabi and Antonio were also a mess.  They tried daily to try and talk to him, always to no avail.  Maria knew how much Antonio was hurting inside, although he tried hard to contain his feelings.  He was distraught at losing his brother but also at not being able to express his true feelings for Gabi.  He was living in hell and Maria thought sadly, that it was what he unfortunately deserved.  She could only pray that God would one day peace together the family who loved and each other unconditionally.  Maria was so engrossed in her thoughts, that she neglected to see that the heat on the stove was too high and felt the overpowering burning sensation of hot oil on her hand. “OWWWWWW!!”  Maria screamed as she quickly ran to the faucet and ran cold water under her burned hand.  Through the pain, she thought of Ben.  Ben.  Why did she have to continue to love Ben?  It was only causing more problems in her life, problems she did not need.  As much as she wished she could let go of him, she found it more difficult everyday.  Especially, after they had shared a tender moment upon her return from Seattle.  Ben had expressed that he had missed her, something that had not escaped Meg’s ears.  Since then, their problems had escalated and Maria wasn’t sure how much more she could take.  She returned to the stove and turned it off and then wrapped her burned hand with a bandage.  She sat down at the table and gently looked at the ceiling, deep in thought again.  She shook her head.  “Why do I have to have so many problems….please God…take some of them away.” Maria spoke out loud, pleading for answers…..but she didn’t get any.  Her attention diverted the card on the table and she reread the what it said.  She was going.  That was for sure.  She didn’t care what it entailed.  Maria needed some diversion from her chaotic life.  This party would allow her to escape to another world and she was looking forward to that…..
 
 
 

B sat contently in her living room couch and put her feet up on the coffee table, spreading her arms out and smiling devilishly.  Everyone had received their invitations.  What was more important….was that she knew the eleven guests she wanted most to attend were all going.  She had checked with the costume shop in town and every one of them had rented a costume for that night.  B was ecstatic.  She openly laughed out loud.  Tomorrow was the night of the Sunset Lovers Masquerade Ball and everything was going according to plan……..
 
 

Chapter Two

The night was dazzling without a breeze blowing.  The stars were twinkling brightly in the sky as if they knew the importance their presence commanded to the night.  What was even more amazing was Lansing Mansion, which stood atop the highest hill overlooking Sunset Beach.  The mansion was so bright with lights that as guests approached the magnificent structure it appeared as if it were still daylight.  Guests milled through the ten foot french doors which had beautiful glass engravings which were so eloquently done by hand.  As they approached the foyer, everyone noticed the two staircases to the left and to the right which curved to meet in the middle.  Straight ahead, was the ballroom.  As guests entered the majestic ballroom, everyone was awestruck by what they saw.  The ballroom was enormous.  Guests couldn’t help but raise their heads and notice the ceilings covered with crystal chandeliers.  The room was filled with dozens of carefully set tables which had candles at every setting. Large gold plated bowls served as centerpieces which were filled with rich decadent truffles of white and dark chocolates.  The name plates with each guest’s name was written in a mixture of white and dark chocolate.  The tables were all formed in a circle, hugging the dance floor which was made of pure marble.  The ballroom was situated on the second level of the mansion and it held six balconies, three on each side.  The balconies were all made of marble and each balcony held a canopy made of transparent silk over it.  The ballroom was breathtaking.   The preparations made were fitting for royalty.  As the guests slowly found their way to their seats, B observed from the outer boundaries of ballroom, watching her guests.  But she was looking out in particular for her special guests and they were slowly arriving to the Masquerade Ball…..
 
 
 

Michael stepped through the compounds of the ballroom and was amazed by what he saw.  Even with his mask on he could see clearly and was in awe by the beauty of the ballroom.  He looked around with his mouth literally dropped looking at the chandeliers, tables, and waiters who were running around serving the guests already here.  One of the waiters approached Michael and offered him an Hor’douerve  of escargot, which Michael immediately shrugged off.
 
 

“Good evening Mr. Clyde Barrow.” The waiter smiled, having guessed Michael’s costume.
 
 

Michael simply smiled as the waiter walked away.  He laughed to himself as he remembered looking at himself in the mirror before coming to ball.  He was wearing a gangster type suit with a vest and fedora hat.  He had on pin striped shoes which were slightly pointed at the toes and a fedora style hat.  He carried a toy shotgun on his left arm.  And of course he had on the mandatory mask which covered his entire face except for the contours of his mouth.  He thought he looked silly but now that he was looking at the rest of the other guests, he realized he didn’t look so bad.  Some of the masqueraders were sharply dressed but others looked a tad silly to him.  Michael chuckled to himself.  As he stepped forward to find his seat, he thought of Vanessa.  He had to make an excuse before coming over to the ball.  He had tried to get her to fess up to the fact she had invited him to the ball, but he got nothing. If anything, he thought she was trying to interrogate him.  Well, Michael thought, as he found his seat, I’m going to see what this night brings.  He sat down and started searching for Bonnie Parker, his partner in crime….
 
 

Vanessa had already arrived and was standing by the orchestra, drinking a glass of champagne and looking around the room a little shyly.  Some of the people walking by were staring at her costume.  She was wearing a rather plain twenties style dress which flowed to the knees.  She wore a fur shawl and a hat which tightly fit over her head.  The hat ad small flaps which stuck out over her full face mask.  She was Bonnie Parker, the infamous female criminal from the depression era.  Biting her lip, she spoke to herself softly, “What am I doing here?”  Vanessa was a little anxious to know what this ball was all about.  She could tell now that is would be an old fashioned party and that part of the fun would be to figure out who the others were.  But she was curious to know how Michael fit into the mold.  She just knew he had to be a part of this.  He had looked to suspicious when she had questioned where he was going tonight.  He mentioned that he and Casey were doing a night patrol but she knew he was lying.  So she decided to continue to play along with his game.  But now as she stood there, watching people walk by in their costumes, Vanessa wondered if Michael really was a part of this.  If he wasn’t, then who was her partner?  The invitation had said that every person at the party would be part of a famous couple.  Well, Vanessa thought, if I’m Bonnie, then where is Clyde?
She wasn’t sure she was up to meeting a total stranger, but she had to admit, the mystery of the entire party was intriguing to her.  So Vanessa decided to wait and see what would transpire.  As she sipped on her champagne, she had to stifle a laugh as one of the guests walked by……..She wondered who was beneath the Batman suit….
 
 
 

Antonio walked around the ballroom, observing everyone who was currently there.  He was feeling red all over his face but luckily no one would have been able to notice.  Everyone who passed him, would stare long and hard and then laugh good naturedly.  Antonio had come dressed as Batman.  He was unable to change into his costume at the mission.  He had to change in the bathroom of a gas station.  As he had walked out a little boy, who was going in was in complete shock to come face to face with Batman.  He kept pointing at Antonio begging him to do some superhuman trick.  Antonio had simply laughed and spun around once in superhero fashion to appease him.  The little boy had laughed and applauded him.  As Antonio thought back to that moment, he smiled.  He hadn’t had much to smile about lately.  His thoughts automatically shifted to Ricardo.  Antonio wanted desperately to make things better for him but knew there was nothing he could do.  Right now, Ricardo was treating him like he was the plague.  Antonio sighed deeply as his attention once again returned to the party goers.  This party was probably not the most priestly thing to do but he needed to distract himself for now.  As his eyes roamed across the ballroom, he spotted someone who caught his attention…..If he thought he looked silly in the Batman costume, the woman who was dressed as catwoman had to look even sillier.  His mouth dropped slightly as he figured that was the other half of the couple he formed.  Antonio began to walk her way, his cape flying behind him…..
 
 
 

This suit is sooo tight, thought Annie.  She was dressed in a plastic skin tight suit which wrapped around her entire body and head.  The only skin visible was of her cheeks and mouth.  She was also wearing the tallest dark blue high heels she had ever stepped foot into in her life.  She was getting very irritated because she kept being bumped into by people and stared at like she was mannequin on display.  One guest in particular had really gotten on her nerves and Annie had lifted her frilly skirt to teach her a lesson.  The woman looked like she was dressed as Barbie and called her a not so proper name for a party of this stature.  Annie could have sworn the voice belonged to Sara Cummings, but then Annie thought more clearly.  Sara would NEVER have been invited to something as elegant as this ball.  Annie forgot about the incident and quickly began observing the people at the party.  As much as she was trying to make it look like she was bothered by being there, she was actually enjoying the party so far.  Everyone in the ballroom was in awe of the mansion.  She kept noticing people staring all around the ballroom, just flabergasted by the beauty of the room.  Annie was not as impressed as the others.  She had been to Lansing Mansion many times before for parties and was already very aware of its elegance.  A waiter passed by her and offered her a glass of champagne.  He seemed to like what he saw, something which Annie quickly acknowledged.  “Hey!  Do your job and run along fetch me some milk!”
 
 
 

The waiter was not amused and quickly left in a huff.  Annie, followed him for a moment, satisfied.  She turned again and noticed someone approaching her.  As Annie concentrated on the figure, she noticed that it was someone dressed as Batman.  She laughed outwardly and thought to herself, well I guess that’s my date for the night.  She only hoped he was cute and had money.  Annie decided to have a little fun regardless of who it was.  As he stood right in front of her, obviously intrigued at finding his pair, Annie smiled seductively and grabbed the back of his neck and planted a huge kiss on him.  As they both pulled apart, Annie could see the shocked look on his face even though he was wearing a mask.  She smiled seductively again and said,” Well Batman, you certainly are a good kisser.”  She was satisfied with herself.
 
 
 

Antonio was in shock.  First at having been kissed so passionately by a stranger dressed as catwoman, but then even more shocked at having recognized the voice.  Antonio couldn’t believe it. “ANNIE?!” He whispered with much intensity.
 
 
 

Annie dropped the smile and leaned in closer to him and then realized there was something familiar about him.  He then pursed his lips and Annie recognized him immediately.  He’d been doing that for as long as she could remember.  Her mouth dropped as she realized who she had just kissed….”ANTONIO!?”
 
 
 

They both stared at each other, dumbfounded and shocked at discovering who the other was….
 
 
 

Sara found her seat finally after searching for what seemed like forever.  She sat down a little exasperated.  She moved her mask a little since it was pinching her skin.  She also felt like scratching her head constantly.  She was wearing a blonde wig that was down to her back and the material was making her head itch terribly.  Sara looked around, noticing and recognizing many of the costumes that walked by.  She looked down at herself and at what she was wearing.  She had on a frilly neon white and pink striped tank top and wore a pink blouse over it.  Her collar was turned up.  She also wore a big white belt over her pink shirt.  Her outfit was capped off by a frilly pink skirt and pink heels with bobby socks.  Her lipstick was also sparkly pink.  Sara felt she looked like an ideal Barbie.  She smiled to herself and then slowly looked down at her hands.  She thought of Casey.  Sara only wished she could have shared this with Casey….he would have made a perfect Ken…..
 
 
 

Casey stood outside on one of the balconies, marveling at the view he had  of Sunset Beach .  He had always wondered what Lansing Mansion was like.  He had always heard it being described as a magical place.  Casey looked back inside the ballroom and observed the many guests who were busy trying to find their seats.  Lansing Mansion was magical and he was a little saddened that he wasn’t able to share the experience of being there with Sara.  Casey turned back to take in the view of Sunset Beach through his darkly mask.  He decided that after the ball he would find Sara and tell her how much he loved her.  It was the only thing he could think of at the moment.  He laughed again as he realized how he was dressed.  Casey was the epitamy of a preppie.  He had on a blue polo shirt with the collar turned up.  He was also wearing plaid shorts which had squares all over them. To complete his outfit, he wore a light blue windbreaker, also with the collar turned up and topsider shoes.  Casey felt like he had stepped out from the eighties.  He was the ideal Ken.  Casey took one last look at Sunset Beach and then turned back to take his seat, waiting to meet Barbie…..
 
 
 

Rhett Butler stood at the entrance of Lancing Mansion, not sure if he should go in.  He watched as people walked inside to the foyer and then directly into the ballroom.  He kept peeking inside, wanting to go inside, but something kept him from moving his feet.  He was dressed in a grey 1860s suit.  He had on a ruffled shirt and wide  grey tie over it.  His grey jacket dropped to just above his knees.  But what he had liked most about the outfit was the grey hat he wore.  Ricardo Torres caught his reflection in the window he was standing by.  He had never felt so sophisticated in his life.  The mask he had on added to the mystery of the costume.  He continued to stare out at the crowds of people milling and Ricardo finally decided to walk in.  This was the first time in weeks that he felt excited about something.  He didn't know exactly what the night would bring, but he felt he needed to give it a chance.  Ricardo took a deep breath before stepping into the foyer.  He walked into the ballroom, completely mesmerized by the sights of the room, before finally searching for his seat…..
 
 
 

Gabi sat at her seat feeling a little out of place in the dress she wearing.  She felt the dress was meant for a decent pure woman to be wearing.  It was far to elegant and historical for her.  But Gabi couldn’t help but feel like a princess in it.  She had on a long beautiful maroon gown.  The body of the dress spanned at least two feet.  At the top the dress cut across her chest.  She also wore a beautiful  replica of a diamond crossed necklace.  Her hair was flowing underneath a maroon mini top hat, which was slanted to the left.  Completing her outfit, she wore white gloves and carried an umbrella.  Gabi was radiant and literally felt like Scarlett O’Hara.  She was approached by a man who looked to be dressed as Romeo Montague and he commented on how beautiful she looked, wishing she could be his Juliet.  He took her hand and kissed it gently, as he gazed at her through his mask.  Gabi had been flattered and smiled warmly.  As she looked around, she wondered if she would see her other half.  She searched for a man dressed as Rhett Butler, all the while with images of Ricardo in her mind.  Knowing full well that she would not find Ricardo at the ball…..
 
 
 

Ben felt like royalty as he walked into the ballroom.  Reason being was that he was dressed as royalty.  Ben appeared at the entrance to the ballroom, dressed as King Arthur.  He wore a colorful shiny royal jacket and light blue tights, with a crown atop his head.  At his side he carried a sword.  Ben walked through the ballroom, marveling at the tables, the people, and everything about the room.  He noticed his name at one of the tables and sat down.  Despite, his problems, Ben felt content.  He was happy to escape his problems for at least one evening.  He said hello to the people at his table and he was glad to see that they recognized him as King Arthur.  He withdrew from the remainder of the conversation and sat silently, thinking of Maria but then mostly of Meg.  How perfect it would have been if Meg was beside him as his Guenevere, he thought and smiled……
 
 
 

What Ben did not know was that Guenevere was at the ball and what would further surprise was to know that Meg had just walked past his table, completely oblivious that the other was there.  Meg had on a beautiful cream colored gown which was made of pure lace.  Her hair was parted in the middle and she had braids that ran on each side and met in the back, where they were connected neatly.  Meg felt exuberent in her gown as Guenevere.  She found her seat, which was directly on the other side of the room from King Arthur and awaited eagerly for the festivities to begin…..
 
 
 

B was looking down onto the foyer from the staircase, hiding behind the wall.  She noticed that Marilyn Monroe had just walked in.  A hug smile appeared on B’s face when she saw how lovely Maria looked in her outfit.  She had on the same white, sleeveless dress that Marilyn Monroe wore in the movie “Some like it Hot”, in where Monroe’s dress flew up when she stepped over the vent.  Maria was also wearing a blonde wig and black mole, two other of Marilyn’s trademarks.  She looked radiant, B thought to herself.  Now was the time.  The festivities must now commence…..
 
 
 

“Ladies and gentlemen, if you have not taken your seats as of yet, could you please do so now….”  The announcer was at the center of the dance floor, smiling and awaiting for everyone to take their seats.  Batman and Catwoman, better known as Antonio Torres and Annie Douglas, were still stunned at what had just happened between them.  Antonio simply looked at Annie and said, “We’ll talk later…..don’t you dare leave!”  He then swiftly turned around and walked back to his seat, turning around twice to look back at Annie.  Annie simply let out a pout of disgust and took her seat as instructed.
 
 
 

The announcer continued, “I would like to welcome everyone to the 1st Annual Sunset Masquerade Ball.  I am Jason Steele, head waiter for this event.  At this time I would like to introduce everyone to organizer and hostess of this event….please put your hands together for Mrs. Bette Katzenkazrahi!!”
 
 

Annie was sipping her champagne when her aunt was announced and she immediately spit out the fluid onto the table, getting the attention of everyone at the table.  Annie was floored…..and she wasn’t the only one.  As people clapped, the eleven souls in the room whom Bette had worked so hard to get to the Sunset Masquerade Ball were all stunned and the same question was running through each of their minds…..Why were they there?
What was even more pressing in their minds at the moment was what Bette had come out dressed as.  As Bette took the microphone from announcer, she beamed and waved at the crowd.  Everyone was laughing at her outfit, all in good nature.  Bette was wearing a blue polka dotted dress with a white belt and white color.  Her red hair was curly as can be and she had it in a small bun.  Bette was the perfect interpretation of Lucy Ricardo.  Everyone was smiling and laughing as Bette began to speak.
 
 
 

“Thank you, thank you…..I’m happy to see so many of you here, all in full garb.  I must tell everyone that you all look magnificent.  Thank you so much for coming.  Now, I know many of you are wondering why exactly you are here.  Well, if you just sit your patuties down, then I will explain a little about what this is all about.” Bette waited for everyone to be sitted and then continued. “People, as the title states so well, this is a masquerade ball.  I expect to be the only to not have a mask on until the time comes to unveil who you are.  If you have not figured it out by now, all of you are part of a famous couple from the past.  There is a reason for each of being in the couple you are in and you will soon find out why.  Underneath your plate, you will find a card that tells you to go to a certain location in this mansion.  Your significant other will be meeting you there and that will be the first step in finding your pair.  Trust me people, this will be fun, so go to it.  Go on now.”
 
 
 

Everyone in the ballroom did as instructed by Bette and slowly everyone got up from their seats and started going to their destinations.  Bette watched as the eleven people she had personally selected roamed to find their destinations.  Bette smiled as she thought to herself…..These people were going to get her help whether they liked it or not……..
 
 

Chapter Three
 

Casey waited at the far end of the balcony, where he had been instructed to go to.  He was pacing slightly, with his hands in his pockets, watching his shoes as he walked.  He was a little nervous and didn’t know what to expect of this whole thing.  He had been completely shocked when Bette came out, dressed as Lucy.  If he knew Bette, he knew that she had something up her sleeve.  The thing was he couldn’t imagine what it would be.  Casey swung his head toward the view of Sunset Beach.  He was also nervous about who he was about to meet.  He was trusting Bette and figured she wasn’t trying to set him up with another woman.  She knew that he loved Sara and that he was working hard on trying to get things to work out between them.  Things just hadn’t been right since Sara had caught him kissing Meg.  He was sorry for what he did, but Sara was still very insecure when it came to their relationship.  Casey sighed and then felt and overpowering sensation to see Sara.  He didn’t want to stay any longer.  He wanted to participate in the fun of the evening but Sara was his all he could think.  Casey turned to walk out of the balcony.  As he began to turn the corner, he bumped into someone and almost knocked her down.  Casey stood there startled at who was in front of him.  It was Barbie……or better still, Sara.  The two had knocked into each other so bruskly that her already loosened mask, fell off.  Sara stood there staring into the eyes of a masked Casey.  His mouth had dropped open and Sara couldn’t help but recognize him.  Casey slowly lifted his hand and pulled of his mask.  Sara looked onto him, stunned.  They stared into each others eyes for a few seconds and then slowly they both smiled at each other.  Casey and Sara leaned in and fell into each other’s arms.  They pulled apart, caressing each other’s faces unable to focus on any one feature of their faces.  They were both overwhelmed at having found each other at the ball.  No words were being spoken as Casey and Sara stood at the entrance to the balcony.  They had both been hit with a wave of emotions, emotions none of them had expected to hit with.  Sara began to tear and gently lowered her head.  Casey took his finger and slowly lifted her chin.  He was so in love with her and he wanted to tell her just how much he cared.  But the only thing Casey could manage to say was, “I’m sorry.”  His voice quivered as he spoke.  Sara lost all control and her tears slowly flowed, never once leaving her gaze of Casey.
 
 
 

“Excuse me.” One of the waiters had appeared, standing uncomfortably at having interrupted an obvious tender moment.
 
 
 

Casey and Sara had not even noticed the waiter approaching.  They had been so wrapped up in their own feelings that nothing else was seen or heard by them.  They snapped out of their fog and looked over at him.
 
 

The waiter still looked a little uncomfortable but then handed Casey and envelope. “Please read what is inside.  It is up to both of you to determine what it means.” The waiter then left abruptly without saying another word.
 
 

Casey and Sara were left standing in bewilderment at what he had told them.  Sara looked curiously at the envelope.  She then looked at Casey. “ Well let’s open it.” She was eager to see what was inside.
 
 

Casey quickly ripped the envelope open and pulled out a card.  He read it to himself first and then gave Sara a look of confusion.  Sara couldn’t take it any longer.  The tears she had had only a minute before were gone and the excitement of the card was swarming over her.” Well! Casey, what does it say?” She was literally jumping up and down.
 
 
 

Casey just looked at her, not knowing what to think.” All it says is “security and”.  Then there’s a blank line as if there is another word that follows.” He searched Sara’s eyes trying to see if she understood what this all meant.  But He could tell that Sara was just as dumbfounded as he was. “Do you have any idea what that could mean?”  Casey was clueless.
 
 
 

Sara thought about it for a moment, just as clueless as Casey was.  She walked over to the edge of the balcony and looked out over the town.  She began to have flashbacks of everything she had gone through since coming to Sunset Beach.  She had changed so much in the short period she had arrived.  Overall, she had changed because of Casey’s love for her.  She came to Sunset Beach, insecure about herself due to the scandal created back in Washington, D.C.  Casey had been like no other man she had met and he had grown to love her….her.  What he and Meg had done was not a reflection on his feelings for her.  She hadn’t really comprehended that until just now.  They had fallen under a moment of weakness when their worlds had been too much for them to handle.  They sought comfort in each other.  It was mistake but Sara now knew she had to stop doubting Casey.  If she didn’t, then they would not stand a chance.  As her thoughts ran through her mind, Sara was once again consumed in tears.  Her face glistened from the tears as she overlooked the heavily lighted town.  It was a spectacular sight and Sara would always remember it.  She felt Casey’s hands on her shoulders and she slowly turned to face him.  She looked at him through misty eyes and smiled softly. “Security is what all people need to feel whole.” She could see that Casey was slowly beginning to understand. “I promise to be secure in our love Casey.” Sara was now overwhelmed by her feelings.” I love you Casey Mitchum…..I love you very much….but those clothes have got to go.”  They both laughed as Casey gently wiped her tears away.
 
 
 

He simply kissed her and then slowly lifted her chin as they pulled away. “I love you Sara….I always will.”…..
 
 
 

Michael and Vanessa both reached their destination at the exact same moment.  They had both been so consumed by curiousity, that they had literally ran to the far left hand balcony as soon as Bette had given the instruction to go.  They had bumped into each other at the entrance.  They stood in front of each other, Michael dressed as Clyde Barrow and Vanessa dressed as Bonnie Parker.  There was something familiar about the other, they thought.  Michael then smiled and Vanessa knew she was with the man she loved.  She smiled back and gently removed her mask, smiling all the while happily.  As soon as Michael saw her face, his mouth dropped slightly.  He had hoped he would be meeting with Vanessa and now his suspicions had been confirmed.  She was before him.  He removed his hat and mask, and smiled back lovingly.
 
 
 

“I knew it was you, it had to be you.” Michael spoke softly.
 
 
 

Vanessa felt a rush of warmth rush through her body.  Her fingers and toes tingled with delight.  She leaned towards Michael and embraced him.  He held her back, gripping firmly.  As they pulled apart, feeling the magic of the night coursing through their veins, they kissed tenderly, lost in the shear pleasure of each other.  Suddenly, they both felt something being thrown at their feet.  They stopped their kiss and looked down.  It was a white envelope.  Michael bent down to pick up the envelope.  He looked over at Vanessa, who had the same look of confusion on her face as he did.  He opened it quickly and as he read what the card inside said, Vanessa leaned over.  They looked up at each other again as they read what was on the card.
 
 
 

“Trust and…..what does the blank line mean?” Vanessa was bewildered by it all.
 
 
 

Michael didn’t really know what to think.  Trust?  Trust….what did the card mean by trust.  And what was the other word that went with the phrase?  He looked at Vanessa.” I don’t know what this means or what it could possibly have to do with us----.” Michael stopped.  He looked back at the card and then recalled Bette’s words when she introduced the theme of the party.  She hadn’t really indicated what the theme was.  But Michael thought back to the name of the ball……it was called the Sunset Lovers Masquerade Ball.  Lovers.  The word lovers kept repeating in his mind.  Then the word trust reentered.  Michael suddenly put the pieces together.  Bette was sending some type of message to everyone. He still didn’t the exact meaning but he knew that the trust factor was something that he had temporarily lost with Vanessa.  They had been through so much and now they were happy.  He gave Vanessa a look that made it seem that he had solved the world’s most difficult puzzle.  He yelled and picked up Vanessa from the ground swinging her in a circle.  Vanessa was caught up in Michael’s excitement but she still didn’t know what was going on.  He put her down and caught his breath before he spoke. “Vanessa….think about it…..what did Bette say before….she said that there was a reason for all of us being here…..we still don’t know about the exact reason but this card…..this card relates to us…….” Michael suddenly became serious and cupped Vanessa’s face in his hands, looking at her tenderly. “Trust, baby…..what do we have between us that is most important to us?”  Michael searched her eyes, hoping she could relate to him.
 
 

And Vanessa could.  It was so apparent now.  She had lost Michael’s trust when she had lied to him about the baby she was having and not having told him when she had Martin’s Syndrome.  She had not trusted him enough to be able to confide in him.  But they had gotten past that.  She and Michael had learned many things from experiencing all of those horrible things, but what they had learned most of all was how to trust each other.  Trust was everything to them and she thanked God that he allowed Michael to trust her again.  It had been the best gift she had ever been given.  Vanessa’s tears flowed.  She was unable to voice what she was thinking but she didn’t have to.  Michael seemed to understand everything that she was thinking and simply wiped her tears away.  He knew. “I know baby…..I know baby……we’re gonna be ok.” Michael was overwhelmed.  He grabbed Vanessa and kissed her deeply, they stayed that way, relishing in the love and trust that they had somehow rekindled…..
 
 
 

Antonio paced back and forth on the balcony as he awaited for Annie to come.  He had tried to grab her when the crowd had dispersed after Bette’s speech but he had been unable to find her.  He didn’t know what was going on but he wanted to talk to Annie about why she had kissed him.  He thought that since Bette was involved in this whole thing that Annie had to have something to do with it.  Antonio was pacing faster and more furiously and finally smacked his hands on the edge of the balcony.  He tried to take off the mask but it was difficult to pull off.  It was made of pure rubber and it seemed to have already conformed to his head.  “Dammit!” he yelled as he pulled a little more forcefully.
 
 
 

“It doesn’t come off that easily….I’ve already tried to take mine off.”
 
 
 

Antonio spun around and there was Annie, still in her catwoman suit.  She walked over to him with her arms crossed around her body and sighed.  “I couldn’t get the thing off my head either and it’s giving me a headache!”  She tried again to pull it off but had even more difficulty than Antonio.  She finally gave up and threw up her arms in exasperation. Antonio then grabbed her and made her look at him. “What the hell was that kiss all about?” He was getting irritated again. “What are you and Bette doing here, huh?” He was raising his voice again and grabbing Annie more firmly.
 
 
 

Annie didn’t like Antonio’s tone and she was trying to free herself from his ever growing tight grasp.  “Let me go of me you bat beast!!!”  Annie finally managed to escape his hold, breathing a little hard from the effort it had taken.  She was now mad. “Don’t you ever touch me or grab me like that again!” She was huffing and puffing like a dragon. “I know about as much as you do about this whole ball.  I didn’t know Aunt Bette was the MC…..I found out like you and everybody else did…..so back off!!”  Annie finished and then started to leave.
 
 

Antonio ran to catch her and grabbed her gently by her shoulders. “Annie….wait.” He stopped for a moment, trying to calm himself. “Look…I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to get so riled up.  It’s just that…..”  He stopped again and turned his attention toward the view of the town.  Thinking about Gabi and Ricardo. “I’ve had a lot on my mind and I’m not in the best state of mind.  I thought you were trying to play a prank on me and…..” He stopped himself again as he brought his hands to his face and began to sob.  His voice was now cracking with emotion. “God……I can’t handle all of this pressure….I can’t deal with what I’ve done…..I just can’t!” Antonio reached the edge of the balcony again and threw his hands down hard, his head down, hurting.
 
 
 

Annie was stunned.  She hadn’t expected Antonio to become so emotional.  She felt uncomfortable and didn’t know exactly what to do.  Comforting people was not her best trait and she had no idea how to go about helping Antonio.  She continued to watch him, standing at the edge of the balcony, dying inside.  Annie knew she was not the most compassionate person in the world, but she had feelings and she knew that Antonio was hurting and hurting badly.  He hated himself right now.  And that was a feeling that Annie had felt many times before.  She felt like running from the situation.  But something kept her from leaving.  The sight of Antonio breaking down did something to her and she wanted to at least to try and help him.  She sighed as she walked to where he was standing and gently placed her hands his left shoulder.  He didn’t look at her….he kept his eyes averted on purpose. “You hate yourself……don’t you?”  It had been a feeling she had felt often, but she knew that this was something that was new to Antonio.  He had never made such mistake as the one he committed on Ricardo.
 
 
 

Antonio continued to look over at Sunset Beach.  Annie had hit the mark.  He hadn’t realized how much he hated himself until now.  He did.  He hated himself with a passion.  He looked up at Annie, like a lost little boy. “How can I ever get people to respect me if I can’t even respect myself?……How do I do that Annie?” Antonio pleaded for an answer.
 
 
 

Annie didn’t know what to tell him.  That was one question she had not quite figured out herself.  As they both stared at each other, they saw someone approach them from the entrance of the balcony.  It was one of the waiters from the ball.  He looked slightly uncomfortable and quickly just handed Annie and envelope and then left abruptly.  “Hey!” Annie yelled after him.  She eyed the envelope curiously.  Why was she given this? She wondered.  She looked over at Antonio, who was once again lost in his own little world, not having paid attention to the envelope she was handed.  Annie let him stay that way.  She eyed the envelope again and then began to open it.  Her cat eyebrows raised as she read what the card inside said…”Self worth”.  She mouthed the words to herself.
 
 
 

“What did you say?” Antonio had turned to her after hearing what she had said.
 
 
 

Annie looked up at him, just having realized that she had spoken out loud.  “That’s what the card says……self worth.”  She handed the card to Antonio.
 
 
 

He took it and repeated the words to himself.  He stared at Annie. “What is this suppose to mean?…….what is Bette up to Annie?” He asked softly.  His mood was light and he didn’t have it in him to be sarcastic anymore.
 
 
 

“I really don’t know Antonio.  I guess it could mean a lot of things.  Who knows?  Aunt Bette loves to be mysterious……” Annie trailed off for a moment.  She was about to do something out of her character.  She didn’t know why exactly but she felt compelled to do it anyway.  She reached over quickly and hugged Antonio.  He fell into her arms and began to cry like a baby, forgetting where he was and who he was with.  Annie didn’t need to say a thing….she simply held him and soothed his back with her hands.  This felt strange to Annie, comforting someone other than herself, but she was glad that Antonio was finally letting out the pain he was feeling.  He had needed to do it.  Annie knew what the card meant.  But she needed to let Antonio figure it out for himself.  Her own self worth had been always been low.  So many times in her life, she had thought she was unworthy of anyone’s love.  That was why she did so many of the things she did.  Her self worth was still almost non existent  but she was trying to get her head above water.  Helping Antonio, if only to hold him, helped her realize that she was needed and she could love back.  Antonio was like brother to her and he had needed her.  Annie had not run off like she would have in the past.  Instead she had faced a difficult situation and held firm.  She was proud of herself.  As Antonio continued to cry in her arms, Annie simply held him and whispered in his ear, “It’s gonna be ok one day……you won’t hate yourself anymore…..trust me.”
 
 
 
 

Gabi had been waiting for a good five minutes at the entrance of the Lansing Mansion.  That was were the card had indicated her to go.  She had pulled off her mask and was waiting for the other person….she assumed Rhett Butler, to appear.  Gabi began to roam around the huge entrance to the mansion.  She had a spectacular view of Sunset Beach from her angle and she marveled at how peaceful the town looked from her view.  Gabi couldn’t help but feel sadness.  Her life was in turmoil.  She had lost everything that had ever mattered to her and she didn’t know how to get it back.  There was probably nothing she could do to get back what she had lost.  Gabi brought her head down and closed her eyes as she thought of Ricardo.  She had hurt him so terribly.  If there was one thing she wished she could do again it was make certain that his heart could have been protected from her.  The love she had given him had destroyed him.  And it had destroyed her and Antonio.  She thought back to what Carmen had said.  Gabi destroyed everything that she touched.  Maybe she had been right.  The two people she had loved were hurting because of her.  She couldn’t bear the thought of it anymore.  Gabi began to run towards the stairs, trying to escape the problems she had created.  As she approached the staircase to leave, she was grabbed from behind.  Gabi turned around and came face to face with none other than Ricardo.
 
 
 

Ricardo had been standing in the shadows, watching the woman who was dressed as Scarlett O’Hara.  He stayed hidden in the shadows until she had pulled off her mask.  Ricardo’s heart began to pump heavily and his entire body began to quiver as he realized that the woman was Gabi.  He wanted to escape at that moment but something kept him from moving.  It had been the first time in weeks that he was able to watch Gabi from afar.  He was mesmerized by her beauty.  She was absolutely breathtaking in her costume.  Ricardo began to falter as his gaze followed her every move.  He began to shake his head and smacked his fist into the palm of his hand.  He was upset with himself for allowing Gabi to have this affect on him.  He kept telling himself that he needed to hate her….he wanted to hate her.  But as she walked back and forth, waiting for him, he couldn’t help but fall into the feelings he had bottled up.  He had to admit to himself that Gabi was a part of him and probably always would be.  She was burned into his soul and he ached for her like never before.  As Gabi ran to the staircase, he was unable to control himself and he ran after her, grabbing her from behind, hoping to get a reaction out of her……..and Gabi did react to him.
 
 
 

They stared at each other, each surprised that they were there, gazing into each others eyes.  Ricardo looked helpless and Gabi could see that this was difficult for him.  She leaned in to touch his face but he suddenly pulled from her and walked across the other side of the balcony of the entrance.  Gabi could see he had his mask and an envelope in his hand.  Ricardo quickly turned to face her again, this time staring coldly at her. “Do you know what this envelope says?”  He spoke with no emotion as Gabi shook her head. “It speaks of forgiveness.”  Ricardo was able to manage a smirk. “Bette has some sense of humor if she’s asking me to forgive.” He leaned in closer to Gabi, looking down on her as Gabi trembled. “How does she---“  His voice began to crack as he swallowed the huge lump he had in his throat. “How does she expect me to forgive you for what you’ve done……Tell me Gabi, how can that be possible?”  Ricardo almost pleaded for an answer.  He was tired of feeling hurt.  He wanted it to go away but he didn’t know how to make the pain stop.  It only made it worse when he was around her or Antonio.  That’s why he had avoided them so feverishly.
 
 
 

Gabi didn’t know what to say.  She wanted to desperately throw her arms around him and make everything right again.  The love she felt for him was more powerful than anything she had ever felt.  It surpassed every barrier she had every created.  Gabi had found love with this man and she herself had lost it.  She gently spoke to him. “I can’t tell you how to forgive Ricardo…..” She was consumed in tears and kept looking away from him. “I’ve hurt you in the worst possible way and I don’t……oh Ricardo!! I’m so sorry!  I can’t ask you for forgiveness…..only you can decide if you can give it.”  Gabi turned away from him and cried uncontrollably into her hands.  She then felt his hand on her shoulder and she slowly turned to him.  She came within centimeters of his face.  They both desperately wanted to give into their desires but the pain and suffering kept it from transpiring.  Gabi stared into his eyes, captivated by his gaze.  Ricardo wanted nothing more than to kiss her.  But just before he did, his mind took over his heart.  Very gently and through a quivering voice he spoke to her.
 
 
 

“I can’t Gabi…..I just can’t….” His voice trailed and he let her go from his arms.  He took one last look at her.  Ricardo then removed the handkerchief  from his jacket and handed it to Gabi.  She reached for it, never once taking her gaze from his.  There fingers gently brushed each other and they felt a charge that sent electricity throughout their bodies.  He removed his hat and tipped it towards her.  Ricardo then walked away from her, leaving the mansion.  Gabi was left standing there watching Ricardo walk down the stairs.  She leaned against the edge and cried profusely, continuing her gaze on him, “I’m sorry Ricardo….I am so sorry…..goodbye…..my love.”…..
 
 
 

Ben and Meg had been talking endlessly.  They had met on one of the balconies, still under disguise.  Ben had marveled at the beauty of the woman dressed as Guenevere.  He had approached her and immediately taken off his mask.  This had caused Meg to literally gasp.  She immediately removed her mask and Ben’s look of astonishment had made her laugh uncontrollably.  It had been the perfect icebreaker after having had weeks of nothing but arguments.  Meg forgot of Ben’s one time affair with Maria for one moment.  They had compared notes on the party so far and wondered really why they were there.  They figured Bette had some grand master plan she wasn’t about to reveal just yet.  As Meg continued to look into Ben’s eyes, her feelings of resentment came flooding back.  She had walked to the edge of the balcony and contemplated everything.  Ben sensed her change of mood and came right behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders, of which Meg had immediately shrugged off.  Meg had spun around instantly and screamed at him, “How could you Ben Evans!!” Meg was now incredulously angry and the tears began to flow uncontrollably.  She fell into his arms and he held her.  It hurt him deeply to see her so hurt.  Ben could not take her pain away.  He wasn’t sure he could take his away.  They had argued endlessly since he had slept with Maria.  They were both exhausted by the battles.  They had nothing left in them any longer.  All they could do was hold one another and hope that time was all they needed to find each other again.  Ben closed his eyes as he held Meg in his arms.  His heart ached for her….it always would.
 
 
 

From the corner of his eye, he noticed someone standing there, watching them.  As he turned to see who it was, a voice came from the same spot.  “Kiddies…..if only you didn’t love each other….then it wouldn’t be so hard.” Bette stepped from out of the shadows, smiling softly.  “It’s time to go back to the ballroom now.” She could see that Ben and Meg were in no mood to go on with the festivities. But she was insistent. “ Trust me kids…….you might like what I have to say.” Bette smiled and grabbed both Ben and Meg’s hands and led them to the ballroom one again….
 
 
 

“People……please gather around in the ballroom. Everyone come back please.” Better waited to get a signal from the Jason, the head waiter, that everyone was now in the ballroom before continuing.  He nodded his head and Bette then spoke. “I know all of you are asking yourselves the same question right about now…..Why did I invite all of you to this ball?…..” Bette stopped and shook her head a bit, a little overcome by the response of the whole affair. She then decided to take a different angle on the speech she had prepared.  Then she continued.” Those cards I gave each and every one of you signified something that had up until tonight, had been lost.  With every card I left the last portion of the phrase blank…..now you ask yourselves, why did I do that…….We are all human beings and we make mistakes, that is the only guarantee in this life, we are going to make mistakes.  But each and every one of us seemed to have forgotten what makes this whole damn world worth living……….love!  Love is what makes the world go round.  Without it, we have nothing.” Bette stops for a moment when she sees Ricardo come walking through the ballroom doors.  Bette smiles and thinks, that a boy. “So the missing word from each other those cards was love.  We have to remember that love is what makes us tick.  Love is a feeling we can never escape.  Love is learned and love is lost……but love is always around…..and it has the power to overcome all obstacles.  If we would only allow it to take its course, then many of us would never suffer.  We must all learn to believe in the security of love, believe in the self worth of love, believe in the trust and understanding of love, and above all.” Bette looked directly into Ricardo’s eyes. “We must learn to believe in the forgiveness of love.” Bette had tears in her eyes as did the majority of the people of the ball.  Her speech had been powerful and all of her words had hit home, especially to the eleven souls who had given up on the power of love. She wiped away her tears before finishing. “If we do that people, then we will always win in love.”  She ended her speech and a round of applause roared through the ballroom.  Michael, Vanessa, Casey, Sara, Antonio, Annie, with tears flowing freely, clapped the loudest.  Ben and Meg and Ricardo and Gabi could only look on sadly.  They wanted to believe in the power of love, but for now, they had to deal with the deception they still felt before allowing that feeling to reside in their hearts again.
 
 
 

Bette motioned toward Michael and Vanessa to come towards her. “Everyone, before dinner is served, I would like to have my two friends, Michael and Vanessa, lead us in a dance.” Bette looked upon them with adoring eyes. “If there were ever to two people who could be used as an example of what love really is, it would be these two.  They have overcome and beat all odds and surrendered to their love…….let them be the example we all need.” Bette wiped her tears again as Michael and Vanessa hugged her. She resumed to her comic self and spoke to the orchestra.” Maestro…..music please.”
 
 
 

The orchestra played the tune of “With or Without you” from U2.  Michael and Vanessa held each other, more in love than they had ever been as everyone in the ballroom looked on, hoping one day they would have what they had.
 
 
 

Maria walked through the ballroom, her mask now off.  She had been overcome with tears and emotions by the power of the speech Bette had given.  She had waited for her match to come find her but he had never showed.  She had noticed Ben and Meg and was trying to make a quick getaway before they saw her.  As she turned the corner of one of the ballroom balconies, she was grabbed from behind.  She turned to see a man dressed in an old style Yankees uniform.  He smiled at her, his mask also not on.
 
 
 

“Excuse me, but you’re Marilyn Monroe, aren’t you?”  He spoke with confidence and Maria couldn’t help but take to his smile.
 
 
 

“Yes I am.  And what would that have to do with you?” She was confused.
 
 
 

The man continued to smile confidentally, “Well….I’m Joe Dimmagio…..you know?……Marilyn Monroe was married to him.”  He eyed Maria with curious eyes, obviously glad that he found her.  “If I’m not mistaken, I think you’re the other half of my couple….I apologize for being late and not meeting you when I was suppose to….I was caught in traffic.”  He continued to smile at her.
 
 
 

Maria didn’t know what it was, but she was instantly smitten with him.  There was something very mysterious and intriguing about him.  She smiled back shyly and introduced herself, “That’s ok….I wasn’t waiting long.” Which was a lie, she had waited for quite some time.  “My name is Maria….Maria Torres.” She extended her hand and smiled back a little less shyly.
 
 
 

He grabbed her hand and shook, continuing to smile, “Nice to meet you Maria……my name is Jude…..Jude Cavanaugh…..I look forward to dancing with you later on if you don’t mind……”
 
 
 

Maria thought, this might now be so bad afterall……
 
 
 

THE END