I love you. Forever.

Chapter 22: Recital

Becs’ POV

The past 2 months have been completely amazing, especially how our weekend turned out with Ben on rest. I have never felt closer to him than I did that night. I swear our souls intertwined as we hit a new high of love making. I haven’t cut myself or even felt the urge to cut. Tim has been working crazy hours and traveling a lot along with my mom. He hasn’t said two words to me and vice versa. Zach is still annoying but mainly keeps to himself. I will admit that there are still some bullying going on at school. Ben and myself try to stop it but that damn teachers and admin just look the other way. Its ridiculous. Tara still tries to get in my face when alone. But its nothing to handle her.

 I am truly happy for once since my accident. Ben has been nothing but incredible. Our bond and love grows stronger by the day. We are so comfortable with each other and always trying new things whether it’s s*x, food, or going to new places to explore. We never get tired of each other. Even Matt has been venturing out more. Lucky for me, Ben and Matt have been spending a lot of time together. Ben has been teaching him self defense and they weight train together too. I can easily slip out and meet Mr. Wilder at the dance studio to practice our dance for the upcoming ball. Let me tell you, Ben’s father can move. He reminds me of Fred Astaire, his moves are elegant and graceful. Classy as f**k too! We are putting the finishing touches of our dance routine. And let me tell ya, it is good. But most importantly, Mr. Wilder and I have grown so close. He is a second father to me.

“I think we have a chance at winning, Rebecca. You are a flawless dancer.” Mr. Wilder complimented as he hugged me after our dance practice.

“I think you are right! And it is easy when you have a great dance partner.” I said all smiles.

“Hey, I thought I was your dance partner?” Avery said as he walked into the dance studio. I have also been preparing for a dance recital the last 2 months and tonight is the night! Ben wasn’t thrilled when I told him about my routine with Avery until he met Avery’s wife. Avery is very professional and a happily married man. I reassured Benny that at the end of the day, he will always be my one true dance partner.

“Oh you are, Ave. Mr. Wilder and I are working on a surprise, so NO spilling the beans to Ben or his mom! Or I’ll kick your ass.” I said sternly. “My mouth is shut. Are you ready to do one last walk through before tonight?” He asked. “Sure, let me just see Mr. Wilder out.” I responded and he nodded in return.

“Thank you again for doing this with me. I can’t wait to see Ben and his mom’s reaction when we step out on the dance floor.”’ Mr. Wilder grinned. “I am so excited too. No need to thank me. I was born to dance. I can never pass up a opportunity!” I said as we got to the entrance. “Has Ben told you about the ball yet? Its two weeks away.” He asked. “Not yet, but you know your son. He’ll tell me the last minute.” We both laughed in agreement. “Yea, these fundraisers were never his cup of tea. We always dragged him every year and he would just hangout at the table and people watch. Many would try to get him to dance but he always declined. Though he always danced with his mother at least once. I shouldn’t tell you this, but many girls vied for his attention. He never once gave them the time of day. And they were truly pretty girls. All he would say is that they tried too hard, were fake, or just plain old mean. But you my dear girl, he captured his heart without even trying.” He smiled down at me. “I think it was my crazy hair.” I laughed. “That’s part of it for sure. But Rebecca, you truly are a natural beauty inside and out. Not many can compare to you. And Ben has been waiting for you. I has never been this happy or relaxed. As you know, he could a arrogant SOB and never allowed anyone too close. Even as a child, he preferred to be alone. I guess what I am trying to say is, thank you for loving my son.” Mr. Wilder pulled me into a hug and kissed my head. “I know his mom feels the same way.” He added. “I love him more than I can ever explain. He is the truly amazing one. He never once let me down or flaked out when my issues surface. Most people would run the other way. But he is always running to me. It was been along time since I have ever felt protected. I lost all security when dad died. But I have it again. I can’t thank you enough for raising Ben how you did.” I admitted. “Yes, we are very proud of the man he is becoming. Just always remember, you are amazing too. You are a strong young lady capable of great things.” He confirmed. “Thank you. I love you so much.” I said hugging him again. “And I love you too, my sweet Rebecca. And we will be here tonight for the recital.” We parted ways and said our goodbyes.

“You and Mr. Wilder have a awesome routine there. Is that ballroom dancing?” Avery asked as I walked back into the studio. “It is, we are taking part in the Father/Daughter dance off at the fundraiser ball his company puts on every year. Though my boyfriend has yet to ask me to go. Not his scene, so he will wait until last minute.” I chuckle to myself. “Well, I wouldn’t be surprised if you two win. You both were perfect, at the half I seen walking in. Very elegant yet strenuous routine with that fancy footwork.” Avery complimented. “Its all the hard work paying off. We’ve been practicing in secret for 2 months now. Lucky for us Mrs. Wilder and Ben are both easily distracted.” I explained as I changed from my heels into ballet shoes. “Definitely have someone tale a video, I would love to see it!” “Will do Ave. Now lets do the routine once more. I am getting hungry.” He started the music and we completed the routine perfectly. We have done the graceful lift multiple times making sure it is perfect. We are ready for tonight.

…

I was too hungry to change so I headed out still in my leotard and skirt and flats ignoring cat calls I was getting as I walked to the diner. How town was never known for any type of crime or violence but it is becoming more and more prevalent unfortunately.

“Well, look what we have here bro. I pretty little ballerina.” A 20 something year old guy hissed blocking my way passed him as he eye r***d me.“Damn, this thang got some nice curves on her, wouldn’t mind f*****g that ass.” Another 20 something year old said cornering me in. “Either of you two fuckers touch me, I will go ape s**t crazy on your dumb asses.” I growled keeping my wits about me. These two creeps are bold doing this in brood daylight. “f**k, this b***h has a mouth on her. Come one baby, dance for us. Show us your moves.” The first guy smirked grabbing my arm. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” I smirked back. I saw something that they didn’t . “Or what sexy? I could f**k you right here, right now and no one will stop me. Let me see what’s under all this.” He said tugging on my skirt. “I warned you.” I replied kneeing him in the groin. “f*****g b***h, now you will pay for that.” He threatened.

“Get your f*****g hands off of her before I rip them the f**k off.” Ben said running up to us. Within seconds Ben had the first guy on the ground freeing my arm. He was punching his mercilessly before the other guy tried jumping his back but Ben flipped him over and stood over both of them. “You touch my girl again, I will kill you both.” He roared at them. He never looked so mean, so monster like. They scurried away tripping over themselves. Ben turned to me and pulled me into his chest. “You okay, Becs? What happened?” He asked breathless. I feel his heart racing. “I’m fine. I was walking to the diner and those two assholes cornered me. Thankfully I saw you coming. Definitely wasn’t expecting all this to happen. This town used to be so quiet and peaceful.” I said calmly before standing on my tippy toes to kiss my hero. “How are you this calm, Becs, they could’ve hurt or r***d you.” He said sternly searching  my eyes. His intense look never going away. “Believe me, at first I was freaking out on the inside but I didn’t want them to know. Then I saw you. That’s all I needed to remain calm. Plus I kneed that guy pretty hard. He won’t using his thing for a while.” I smirked evilly. Ben sighed and shook his head hugging me again. “What am I going to do with you baby doll. If anything ever happened to you, I’d go completely berserk.” He said trying to even out his breathing and calm down. He hid his face in my hair and breathed my scent in. “You can buy me lunch, I’m starving. That’s why I never changed. I was too hungry.” I said allowing him to continue to hold me for as long as he needed. I felt him nod his head and holding my tighter. He finally let me go after a long minute but cupped my face with his hands and kissed me softly before rest his forehead on mine. “As you wish baby doll.” He responded before taking my hand and leading me to the diner. He was still unsettled. I could feel it. He kept me at his side until we were seated and even then he sat right beside me making sure our thighs were touching and rested his hand on my mid thigh. I let him do what he needed to do to calm down so I never said anything.

“The usual?” He asked softy looking down at me. “Yes please.” I say giving him a cheesy smile. He chuckled and shook his head and poked my nose once again “Cute.” He said happily. Thankfully he started relaxing after that. We ate and shared our chocolate milkshake like we always do before he dropped me off at home.

“I’ll see you tonight, Benny. Mom is going to take me since she helps backstage. I love you.” I said before kissing him. “Sounds good, baby doll. Please stay out of trouble until then. And I love you too.” He requested. “I’ll try, but no promises.” I teased causing him to raise his sexy brow. I just wink at him and turn to head inside. “Not so fast sweetheart.” He said jumping out of his car. “Can I help you?” I ask innocently. “Promise me.” He whispered grabbing my hips and pulling me into him. “How about I do you one better? You come in and take a nap with me before I get ready.” I offered knowing he would accept. What? The only time I get good restful sleep is when he is beside me. I’ll take what I can get anytime. “Sounds good to me. Someone has to keep you at bay.” He said teasingly trying to tickle me. “Hey, no funny business Wilder. Napping only or I’ll kick you out.” I said sternly before cracking into a smile. “Oh come on Becs…I could never make that promise.” My turn with the raised brow. “Your choice, handsome.” I said kissing his cheek before turning on my heel to walk in the house. “Fine, I’ll try to behave.” He sighed before catching up and taking my hand. He followed me to my room and crashed on my bed. I changed out of my dance skins and into comfy shorts and a sports bra.

“How is that fair, I can’t behave when you tease me like that.” He whined eyeing me from head to toe. “Oh Stop Ben, this isn’t even attractive.” I argue. “Baby doll, you are always attractive. Always a fox no matter what you wear.” He said smiling brightly as I just shake my head and I down next to him in the spooning position. He pulled me back against his chest and he wrapped his arm around my waist, resting his hand on my bare stomach. He kissed my shoulder. “Sweet dream, Becs.” He whispered as I drifted off to sleep.

…

He woke me up to sweet kisses on the back of neck and shoulder. “Behave Wilder.” I say groggily. “It’s time to get up my love. I’m just kissing u awake.” He said continuing to leave a trail of warm soft kisses across my shoulder. “Roll on your belly and I’ll massage your back get you limbered up.” He said patting my butt as I rolled.  He straddled my legs and started his work making sure to squeeze my ass occasionally. “Your mom will be back in a hour. She came in to let you know.” Ben said as he continued massaging me. “So there is time for funny business, baby doll.” He chuckled rolling off of me. “Not so fast buddy.” I said sitting up right and placing my foot on his lap. “My ankles need rubbed and then I may just thank you for saving me earlier.” I smirked devilishly causing him to raise his sexy brow. Without hesitation he began rubbing my ankle. “Seriously though, this works Benny. Thank you.” I admitted with a sweet genuine smile. “I’m so glad babe.” He smiled back. I pull away after a few minutes and crawl towards him stealing a kiss. He pulls me into his lap straddling him as we make out. He presses my ass into his growing hard on giving me my cue to make a move. I push him onto his back and unbuckle his belt and jeans. He lifts his hips so I pull everything down allowing his hardened buddy to pop out. I stroke him a few times before moving off of Ben to rid myself of my shorts. “You’re so gorgeous Becs.” He said huskily. He watched my every move as he continue to stroke himself after the loss of contact. Damn, he’s so sexy. I climb back on and hover over him kissing his jaw. “Tell me how you want me to thank you handsome.” I whisper before pecking his lips. “f**k me.” He moaned out as I slid over his shaft so he can see how wet he makes me. “Anything for you love.” I whisper into his lips before stealing another kiss. He grabbed my hips and guided me over his d**k until I slammed myself on top of him unexpectant. He let out a growl as his grip tightened on my hips. “You want this fast and rough baby?” I ask giving myself a moment to stretch around his member. “s**t Becs, do whatever you want. You’re so damn tight.” He groaned out as he guided me up and down his shaft. We went hard and fast for the next several minutes as I bounced up and down over him getting rougher with each movement. He rolled us so I was on the bottom but he pulled out only to flip me on my stomach and raising my ass in the air before he pounded into me as I lifted myself up to use the headboard for leverage. After a few thrusts I started pushing back into his thrusts making us both call out. “f**k, baby doll. You scared me today.” He growled out. “Show me how much.” I moan out as my orgasm overtakes me. “You’re only mine baby. I’ll hurt anyone who tries to take you away.” He grunted as he releases himself into me. We both collapse onto the bed in a heap. After a few minutes he gently pulls out and rolls onto his back taking me with him. I lay on top of him breathless as he holds me tight.

“It drives me crazy to think what would have happened if I wasn’t there today, Becs.” He admitted. “Me too Benny, but nothing did happen. We can’t dwell on that. I will be more aware of my surroundings next time. Think I may pick up pepper spray to have with me.” I said trying to ease his nerves.

“Thank you Becs. I would like to teach you a few self defense moves too. You can come with Matt and I at the gym next time. I’d feel a lot better that way.” He sighed closing his eyes.

“Okay Benny. I’d like that.” I said getting up and straddling him. He opened his eyes and met mine. We just gazed at each other for a few moments as he lightly caressed my hips. His expression is relaxed. We are so comfortable with each other. “I love you.” We both said at the exact same time making us laugh. I lowered back on top of him for a hug and to steal a kiss before getting up and ready.

…

The recital is going so well! Mom has been helping backstage as Ben and his parents sit in the front row. They wanted the best seats in the house.

I am so proud of my girls. They are doing marvelous as I stand off the side going through the routine in case they need help. It can be overwhelming remembering the routine at their age. Avery and my routine is up next as we bring the recital to a close. We have a dramatic classical number. This particular dance is down on pointe and entails a few lifts. The crowd claps for my girls, I even hear Ben cheer for them. He is a favorite among my class. He is definitely soft when he wants to be.

“Good luck honey, you look beautiful.” Mom said fixing the pins in my hair and adjusting my costume. It’s a beautiful dark blue mid thigh ballet costume that looks like a regular dress but has a built in leotard. One side is a spaghetti strap while the other is made of beautiful material flowers sewn together as a strap. The skirt hangs loosely so when I spin it flows beautifully. I have tan tights on and dyed my pointe shoes to match the dress as well as long lacey gloves.

“Thanks mom.” I say giving her a hug. “You ready partner?” Avery asks. “Hell yea, let’s finish this recital off right.” I say giving him a high five. “Language my daughter. Ballerina doesn’t cuss.” Mom scolded as I chuckle at her. “Fine, heck yea.” I respond with sass. Mom just shakes her head and glares at me before walking away as Ave and I laugh. “Ben has a handful doesn’t he?” Ave teases. “Hey!” I exclaim lightly punching his shoulder.

“Great jobs girls! I am so proud of all of you! Stand over there if you want to watch Avery and me. After we are down, we will have the final bow.” I say high fiving each girl. The MC announces our routine and we take our mark on the stage.

Ben’s POV

Damn, she looks like a fox up on that stage. God she is beautiful. Not gonna lie, I am jealous of Avery. I know I have no reason to be but I would love to be able to dance with her like that. I’m just too big and bulky. Nothing graceful there.

“This is so beautiful.” Mom cries watching the dramatic dance. Becs is nothing but grace and elegance along with Avery. Dad is totally mesmerized as well. My girl has a gift.

The routine is incredible. Becs does this spinning move across the stage as Avery doe his own spin so they are on opposite sides. As soon as both stop Becs moves like a graceful gazelle flying through the air for Avery to catch her and lift her above his head. Kinda remains me of superman. f**k, Avery stumbles and drops her. A loud thud could be heard across the auditorium as Becs hits the ground hard.

Loud gasps could be heard everywhere as Avery helps her up. She’s holding her shoulder. I go to jump up but mom stops me. With a few painful tears Becs starts dancing again as Avery follows her lead. She barely missed a beat trying to finish the routine. I can see she is hurting. Her whole right side is painful I just know it. They finish the routine as strong as they could. The crowd gave a standing ovation as I rushed back stage.

…

Becs’ POV

“s**t, that hurts.” I sighed to myself as Avery helped me sit down on a bench. “Go line up for the final bow. I will be okay.” I told Avery.

“Rebecca, I am so sorry. I don’t know what happened.” Avery said apologetically sitting beside me.

“s**t happens, go lead the girls out there.” I said through gritted teeth due to the pain. “Rebecca, baby, are you okay? Let me see you.” Ben came jogging up to me and kneeling down in front of me. “I’m okay, Ben. I don’t think anything is broken.” I try to reason but he wasn’t having it. “Becs, you don’t have to be tough with me. You need checked out. That was a hard fall.” Ben said stressing out. Mom came walking up with another lady.

“Rebecca, this is Dr. Rita Barnes. She was in the audience and has offered to look over you. Please let her.” Mom pleaded. “Fine, only because you and Ben won’t leave me alone.” I huffed. I hated being poked and prodded. I much rather curl in a painful ball and sleep it off. But that’s not happening. I hear Ben sigh as he stares me down. “We just don’t want to see you hurt. If you hurt we need to make sure you are taken care of baby doll.” He said sternly.

“Can you go to a dress room or in a more quiet place?” Dr. Barnes asked. “There’s a empty dressing room right down here.” Mom pointed. I go to get up but Ben places his hand on my shoulder stopping me. “No you don’t.” He said before gently picking me up bridal style and taking me to the dressing room. He sat me down on another bench seat and kissed my forehead before stepping aside.

“Please give us some privacy.” Dr. Barnes asked Ben as mom came in to check on me. “No, its okay. I want him here.” I say softly. Dr. Barnes nodded and Ben stood beside mom as the doctor helped fold over the top half of my costume. Only a small strapless bra covering my upper half. She examined my arm and shoulder following my hip and leg. I noticed Ben trying not to focus on my half naked body. Its actually kind of cute. Maybe I should’ve let him step out for his sake. Nah…this way I can tease him later. “Good news, nothing is broken or out of place. You have swelling at the sights of impact though. Rest, pain reliever and hot/cold compresses for a few days should do the trick. You were lucky that you tucked and rolled the way you did. You could have easily broken a arm or shoulder if you tried catching yourself.” Dr. Barnes explained with a warm smile. “It’s a talent.” I said gazing over to mom and Ben who were both shaking their heads. They know me too well. “Thank you.” I added as the doctor helped me fix my costume. “Not a problem. My niece, Amanda, is in your class. She just loves you.” She smiles. “Aww, she is a joy to have in class.” I smile back. I am so ready to be home and in bed. The doctor left and reunited with her family.

“Ben can you take her home? I need to finish up here. It will be a few more hours of tear down and clean up.” Mom asks Ben. “Of course, you ready baby?” He asked looking my way. “Yes, please. I need to lay down.” I again go to get up but Ben stops me once again. “Nope, you need to rest starting now.” Ben smiled softly as he picked me up again. I kissed his cheek and rested my head on his shoulder as he walked me to his car. He got me in safe and sound before taking his place in the drivers seat.

“I’m wrapping you in bubble wrap from now on missy.” Ben said sternly making my giggle briefly. “I’m seriously Becs. I’m going to do it.” He said pulling out of the lot. I go to laugh again until a sharp pain shot through my shoulder making me cringe and cutting my breath short. “Oh baby.” Ben sighed. “How about I run you a hot bath with Epson salt before you lay down?” He suggested. I just nod my head as the pain grows.

…

Ben carries  me right to my bathroom sets me down on the counter top. He runs the bath making sure it’s the perfect temperature. “You were beautiful today, Becs. Just wish it ended differently.” He said while helping me undress. “Me too, love. We practiced that lift hundreds of times. Just sucks.” I sigh shaking my head. Ben cups my cheeks and plants a sweet gentle kiss on my lips. Everything is off except my bra now. “Though I do like this bra.” He admitted as he unclasped it and pulled away from my body. “I know.” I smirked making him raise his brow. “I was watching you trying not to gawk at me while the doctor did her exam.” I teased poking his chest. “Yeah, well it was awkward with your mom right there beside me.” He chuckled lightly. “You ready?” He asked. I nod my head and he picks up my naked body and lowers me into the warm water. “Relax for a bit baby doll. Do you need anything?” He asked as he sat on the edge of the tub. “I’d like for you to join me, this isn’t comfortable.” I admitted shifted around. He reaches over and cups my face with his hand. “Okay, beautiful.” He pulled away and undressed as I admired his body. Everything about him screams greek god. The curves of his muscles is enough for any woman to go crazy. I seen him completely naked tons of times and it never gets old. Its like the first time every time. “Scoot up babe.” He said softly. I did as I was told and he slipped into the water behind me. As soon as he got situated he gently pulled me into his chest. I rested my head back against him and sighed as he wrapped his arms around my stomach. “Tell me if I’m hurting you.” He whispered in my ear. “You’re not. This is perfect.” I sighed closing my eyes. “You were checking me out, weren’t you?” He whispered again. I sensed he was smiling. “I was just admiring the view.” I answered. I felt him kiss my head. I also felt his buddy become wide awake and poking me. He must have felt my body slightly shift with the sensation. “Don’t worry about him. Just admiring the view as well.” He chuckled lightly breathing me in. “Sorry.” I whispered. “Don’t be sweetheart. Just rest for me. Take a nap even.” He replied kissing my head again. I feel him rest his head against mine. I never fell asleep but did rest my eyes focusing on his breathing instead of the pain. We sat in there until the water got colder. He got first first quickly drying off and wrapping the towel around his waist. He then picked me up and helped me stand as he wrapped the towel around me. “Can you find my fleece pajama pants in the closet. I need my warm pajamas. I think I still have a pair of your joggers and a t shirt in there too.” I started drying myself. “Look at you stealing my clothes.” He teased as he walked out the door. “Borrowing, Wilder. You like me in your clothes anyways.” I tease back. “No I don’t. I love you in them.” He corrected walking back in with my pjs with a big old smirk on his face. He helped get me dressed and into bed. I had taken a pain relieved before the bath and its starting to help now. I curl up in a ball on my left side getting as comfortable as I can as Ben got himself dressed. “Do want anything to eat or drink Becs?” He asked tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “No I’m good. You can help yourself though. Then we can put on a movie?” I offered with a tired smile knowing I would fall asleep. “Sounds good sleepyhead, I’ll at least grab you a bottle of water.” He cooed walking out.

Ben’s POV

I know as soon as I put a movie she will be out like a light. Better call my mom to let her know I’ll be here tonight.

“Ben, how is she?” She asks right away. “She’s okay and resting now, mom. And hello to you too.” I chuckle. “I’m sorry son. She just had us worried.” Mom sighed. “Doc said she should be good as new in a few days. Nothing is broken or out of place. Just some swelling where she hit the floor.” I explained just as Tim walked into the kitchen. f**k.

“Ben.” He nodded with a scowl.

“Mr. Wright.” I scowled right back at the bastard. He continued walking into his study and slamming the door.

“Prick.” I said under my breath. But mom heard since she was still on the line. “Ben, don’t antagonize.” She said worriedly. “I won’t mom, Lily should be back anytime. I’m heading back up to Becs’ room and staying there. Don’t worry.” I convinced. “Okay, Ben. I love you. Good night.” Mom said. “You too mom. Love you.” I said before cutting the call. I grabbed 2 waters and 2 bananas hoping to get her to eat at least that.

“I put on Iron Man.” She smiled as I walked into her room and closing the door. “Baby, rest! No getting up.” I scold lightly handing her a banana and water. Thankfully she ate it without question. I crawled over her curled up body and molding my body against hers under the covers. She placed my arm over her waist where it didn’t hurt and snuggled into me as we spooned.

…

Surprisingly she made it halfway through the movie before needing to get up to use the bathroom and brush her teeth. She wanted to walk against my wishes but we compromised and I helped her walk to and from the bathroom. As soon as we both got into the same position before she was out like a light as I continued watching the movie lowering the volume. Shortly after, Lily came home and checked on her. “Thank you Ben for caring for her.” She whispered not wanting to wake her up. I just smile “I’d do anything for her.” I said in hushed tones. “I know you would, good night Ben.” Lily smiled. “Good night.”