One More Chance  

Chapter Six

After the wedding, life in the Jackson home settled into a somewhat normal pattern, or as normal as life could get in Michael’s world. The children attended lessons until mid June because of the time they had missed while in New York with their father. Meanwhile Michael had made the decision to contact an old friend and producer, Kenny Ortega, and meet with him and discuss his ideas for producing a show. And Annie had found an OB/GYN and had made an appointment for her first visit.

Her name was Doctor Christina Thomason. She was very good and she was very discreet and therefore in high demand with some of Hollywood’s most famous pregnant women. In order to get an appointment with Dr. Thomason one needed a personal reference and once again John Branca came to their rescue and assisted in garnering the doctor’s services. John Branca's wife Linda was a long time friend of Christina and when she was going through a messy separation from her now ex husband John had stepped in and recommended a very good divorce lawyer.
When John Branca spoke to the doctor she did have some reservations. The doctor was used to being around celebrities and all their vain glorious attitudes both in the mommies and the daddies. She was no longer dazzled by their celebrity hood. “Michael Jackson, I don’t know John. Does this mean that every time his wife has an appointment I am going to have TMZ and a bunch of other sleazy paparazzi outside my door? And a bunch of rabid fans also? You know I don't like that John!"
John said in response, "Well I cannot promise that it won’t happen but there are currently not too many people that know that Michael has married again or that his wife is pregnant. So we may catch a break at least for now...however knowing Michael’s penchant for attracting media coverage that may change. But at least I can promise you one positive aspect about this Christina; you deal with snobby, pregnant starlets everyday. Am I right?” Christina chuckled and said, “Well, sometimes!” “Well I can promise you that Annie Walker Jackson will be a breath of fresh air. I would not ask otherwise, but I happen to be personally invested in this. Michael and I are not only business associates but I consider him a very near and dear friend. We have just found each other again and I plan on assisting him and his wife and his children in any way that he needs me because I don't want to lose him again. Now please consider my request. I know the both of them will be forever grateful."
"Okay, for you John anything. But only because I love Linda so much! Have Annie Jackson call me. Hopefully I will not regret it." "You won't Christina, I promise!" John said. And before he hung up he said, “Listen, we will get together soon, you, me and Linda. I love you!" After she hung up with John she admitted to herself that she was kind of intrigued about meeting Michael Jackson and his new unknown pregnant bride.
Annie Jackson called Christina the next day and just as John had predicted, she truly was a breath of fresh air. She found Annie to be very charming and very sweet. Michael would be coming with her and also Michael’s three children, of course only if that was all right with the doctor. “They are very curious about everything about my pregnancy and their future sibling. I think it would be good for them, if that’s okay with you Dr. Thomason?” “Of course Mrs. Jackson that would be fine,” Christina replied. “Please Dr. Thomason, as much as I enjoy hearing someone refer to me as Mrs. Jackson, I would prefer very much that you call me Annie.” “All right, Annie it is. I will let you talk to my assistant and she will finish scheduling the appointment.” And as gracious as ever, Annie thanked the Doctor again. Yes indeed, Dr. Thomason thought to herself. This should be very interesting.
After Annie hung up the phone she went in search of Michael. She wanted to let him know about the appointment and she also just wanted to see him. The daily pattern that had developed was that Annie woke up earlier than Michael so that she could eat breakfast with the children before they went off to their lessons. And because that very same thing had happened this morning Annie had not seen Michael for the entire morning. She knew he was going to be in his study making some phone calls so she decided to surprise him. The kids would not be done with their lessons for several hours and they could maybe be alone for a little bit.
But her plans were spoiled, as she made her way to the bottom of the stairs the front door opened and in walked a man. Before he saw her he yelled out, “Michael? Michael where are you?” He was a man in his late fifties and he looked strangely familiar to her. He had a pair of glasses on and he was dressed casually. He had a well tanned complexion and gave off an aura of friendliness. And by the way he was calling out to her husband she hoped that he actually knew Michael. But if he got by security… “Hello, can I help you?” Annie said tentatively. The man all of sudden noticed her. He smiled at her and said, “Hello, do you work for Michael?” “Well…um…no,” suddenly she felt very shy. There were only a handful of people who knew Annie from Michael’s world and very few people in general knew they were married. “Oh I am sorry. I thought perhaps you were the new nanny. You are not some sort of crazed fan are you, that snuck in here?” “N—n—no, I live here,” Annie stuttered out. Damn why was she so nervous all of sudden. Where was Michael?
Then from behind her she heard a familiar giggle. She could see the gentleman’s eyes light up and she knew Michael had just arrived. “That’s no crazed fan Kenny, that’s my wife!” At the sound of Michael's voice Annie turned around in relief. She smiled at him and he smiled back and within seconds he was at her side and embracing her. "Hello Annie. I missed you this morning," Michael said in a breathless whisper as he tucked his finger under her chin. She always made him feel so good that he forgot where he was and what was going on around him. And the same was true for Annie, she temporarily forgot all about the gentleman. "Hello my sweet Michael. I know, that is why I came to find you, I missed you!" And then forgetting that there was another person in the room she reached up and caressed his face lovingly. He closed his eyes and then they leaned closer to each other and proceeded to get lost in a kiss.
Kenny watched in fascination. He wasn't sure he had heard right, but had Michael said something about this woman being his wife? They both seemed as though they were lost in each others' company and as much as he hated to break up their reverie he had come here to see Michael upon his request. Kenny cleared his throat. “Ahem…” Slowly the two of them separated and then they both blushed profusely like two little kids. “Sorry Kenny!” Michael apologized. Taking Annie by her hand they walked towards Kenny. Michael dropped Annie’s hand momentarily and hugged Kenny. “Hello Kenny!” Michael said warmly. Kenny hugged Michael back just as warmly. “It’s been too long my friend. But you are looking quite well.” “Well that’s because I am in love Kenny,” Michael said as he separated from Kenny’s embrace and then took up Annie’s hand again smiling at her. “Kenny I would like to introduce you to my wife, Annie Walker Jackson.” “Annie, this is Kenny Ortega.” Suddenly Annie recognized him immediately and she proffered her other hand which Kenny took in his and shook warmly. “I am so pleased to meet you Kenny,” Annie said softly. “The pleasure is all mine Annie,” Kenny said.
“I guess congratulations are in order. Michael you must have been keeping this a secret. I had not heard anything about this,” Kenny said. Michael and Annie looked at each other and Michael gently pulled his wife closer to him, so that she was standing in front of him, he then circled his arms around her and pulled her closer to him. “We have not made an announcement to the public yet. We were just married a little over a week ago. We met while I was in New York doing some recording. We are still weighing our options about when and how to make it public,” Michael said. “That’s fine. Of course you can trust me to be discreet my good friend,” Kenny said. “Thank you,” both Annie and Michael said at the same time.
“Michael has very fond memories and has shown me pictures of the two tours that you directed. I believe it was the Dangerous and History tours?” Annie questioned. “My lovely wife was just a girl when those tours were going on” Michael teased Annie. “He will never forgive me because you see I was not following Michael during those periods. I was in art school and I had discovered the joys of listening to classical music,” Annie said. “Isn’t she refreshing Kenny? My wife apparently finds me charming despite not being a big fan of my music!” Michael said laughing. “Michael!” Annie said in admonishment. “That’s not true. I love all of your music. And I am lucky to get a private tutorial from the master himself!” she said teasing him. Kenny observed as the two of them exchanged in this light and easy banter with one another. Kenny would have to find out where Michael had found this lovely woman. She was obviously not of the entertainment industry and didn’t seem phased by his celebrity at all. Two pluses for Michael, Kenny thought wryly. “Michael was extremely successful on those tours and we had some good times. I am trying to convince Michael that he is still a superstar and that he can sell out stadiums again, all over the world,” Kenny said looking at Annie. “Perhaps I can enlist your help in my endeavor?” Annie looked at Michael and smiled. “He is a superstar in my eyes and the eyes of his children already Kenny. Even if he decided to never step foot on a stage ever again we would never ever stop loving him. However, whatever Michael decides to do he will always have our undying support.”
“We were just going to talk in the library Annie, did you need me for something else my sweet,” Michael asker her quietly. “No, I just wanted to tell you about…” she hesitated and then looked into Michael’s warm and loving eyes and continued “…my doctor’s appointment.” Kenny said in an alarmed voice, “Doctor’s appointment, everything okay?” He had just been introduced to this woman and for some reason he was already drawn to her. He could see that Michael loved her—he could barely keep his eyes off of her to look at Kenny when speaking to him. And because he loved Michael so much he was very intrigued by this woman. He hoped that there wasn’t anything wrong with her. Michael chuckled. “No nothing is wrong Kenny. My beautiful wife is pregnant with our child.” He lovingly rubbed Annie’s stomach and beamed proudly as he imparted this little tidbit. “Wow, congratulations again! That’s great news. You’ve been busy Michael since I last saw you!” Kenny said laughing. “And how far along are you Annie?” Kenny asked. “Approximately two and a half months,” Annie said.
“That’s okay Michael; I will tend to my art. You and Kenny have a nice long talk. Will you be staying for dinner Kenny?” Annie asked. “I don’t know, am I Michael?” Kenny laughed. “I would love to have you stay for dinner Kenny and I can keep you occupied for a while.” “Okay Mrs. Jackson, then I will stay for dinner!” “Good, I will let George know. I will see you both a little later on.” And with that Annie made her way towards the kitchen to let George know that there would be one more for dinner.
Kenny put his arm around Michael and they walked into Michael’s library. “It is very good to see you so happy my friend,” Kenny said. Michael gestured to a chair and Kenny sat down. “I am happy Kenny, and I owe it to her. She makes me happy,” Michael said sitting across from Kenny. “She said something about her art…is she an artist Michael?” Michael went on to tell Kenny about Annie and how he had met her. They then started to talk about some of Michael’s ideas regarding the possibility of putting a concert together. “Are you sure you want to take on this endeavor at this time, I mean you are just starting a new relationship and you are about to have another baby,” Kenny said. Michael looked thoughtfully at him. “I am not sure to tell you the truth. I guess in some ways I feel like I have to do it for them. I want them to be proud of me and I want them to see what their father is capable of. They are old enough now to appreciate it and I think I am still young enough to pull it off. And now that I have Annie, I feel even more like I need to put myself back out there. But maybe I do need to be pushed. So humor me and let me bounce some ideas off of you. And then we can discuss the reality of it later, how’s that?” “Sounds good my friend, show me what you got,” Kenny replied and they put their heads together and started to discuss some of Michael’s ideas.

A week later and Annie was preparing for her first doctor’s visit. She as well as the whole family, was filled with anticipation. Michael and Annie thought it would be good for the children to come to the first visit with them because they were welcoming a new brother or sister into the world and they wanted them to feel like they were part of the process. And Annie had indicated to Michael that the doctor said they would be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat. She thought the kids would find that amazing and he agreed.
On the day of the appointment they waited for Bill and the other guys to bring the vehicle to take them to the doctor’s office. Of late Annie had been thinking more and more about going out in public with Michael. In New York they spent time between her apartment and the hotel room. They never really ventured out too much together in public. And in New York there had been times when she saw small knots of fans waiting for Michael, but there had not been any real brushes with paparazzi or any kind of media except at Suzie’s party. The thought of perhaps having to deal with that kind of intimidated Annie. She had voiced some of her concerns about this while they were in New York, but Michael had assured her she would be all right and they would deal with it together.
Michael seemed in an especially ebullient mood today. Perhaps the prospect of having another child, and with a woman whom he loved like no other, had something to with it. He and the children were running around chasing after each other right before Bill drove up. Annie felt like a mother hen herding her brood as she called them over to get into the car. And because Michael seemed to be feeling very happy and secure today he told the kids that they should bring their masks but perhaps they would not need them. They would let Bill check it out and if it was pretty clear and low key at the doctor’s office they would not have to wear them. Annie smiled, if Michael was relaxed than she should relax also. Her stomach did get a little fluttery as they drove through the front gate. But the only people that were there was the usual knot of fans with signs shouting Michael’s name aloud. Paris and Prince giggled as they drove by, “Everybody loves daddy, Annie,” Paris said. She laughed and squeezing Michael’s hand she looked into his eyes and said “I know I do!” He smiled back at her.
Blanket insisted on sitting on the other side of Annie on the way to the doctor’s office. Little Michael continued the same loving concern for Annie that he had ever since he found out that he was due to be a big brother. He snuggled up against Annie and said to her, “Annie, are you feeling okay? Does your tummy hurt?” “No sweetie my tummy doesn’t hurt. Why do you ask kiddo?” she said giving him her full attention. He seemed a little agitated and she wanted to find out what his concerns were. “Why do you have to go to the doctor—is the baby okay Annie?” “Oh sweetie, don’t you worry,” Annie said putting her arm around Blanket and hugging him, “Everything is fine with me and the baby. We are going so that the doctor can check everything out and make sure the baby is healthy. They are going to take a picture of the baby and you guys are going to be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat. What do you think of that?” “Really Annie?” Blanket asked wide eyed. “Wow that’s going to be neat,” Prince exclaimed. “It is exciting isn’t it guys!” Michael said. He was as wide eyed as Blanket!
They got to Doctor Thomason’s office and Annie’s wish came true. It was very quiet and they were able to go in with no fuss whatsoever. Once inside Michael and Annie were ushered into an inner office and the kids sat outside with Bill while Michael and Annie spoke to Doctor Thomason. Annie liked her immediately. She was no nonsense but very kind and respectful. One of the reasons such high profile woman flocked to Dr. Christina was that she was very attentive. She never left any detail too small to other assistants. Dr. Christina oversaw the whole birthing process from beginning to end. So Dr. Christina sat with Michael and Annie and explained everything thoroughly. She also asked both Michael and Annie several questions about their past health problems, family health histories, etc. She then turned to Michael and said, “Mr. Jackson we are going to have Annie change into a gown and we are going to do some tests on her, a pap smear, and some blood and urine samples will be taken for some further testing. So why don’t you go out and sit with the kids. And then when we are done with the tests and taking some other vital information from your wife we will then call all of you back in and we will do the ultra sound and at that time we will all be able to monitor the baby’s heartbeat. Annie has told me that she thinks the kids will be especially gratified to hear the baby’s heartbeat.”
Annie and Michael smiled at each other. “Yes, I think they will also. And I think it’s pretty cool also!” Annie tried to repress a laugh as Michael winked at Dr. Christina. She marveled at Michael. She knew that a lot of people had preconceived notions about Michael Jackson but when they ended up meeting him for the first time he usually blew those pre-conceived notions right out of the water and she could see that this was the effect that he was having on Dr. Christina Thomason. “That sounds great Dr. Christina. And please, I want you to call me Michael.” She smiled at him, “Very well, Michael it is then.” Before she ushered Michael out of the examination room Michael tucked his finger under Annie’s chin and then kissed his wife lovingly, first on the forehead and then on the nose and then on the lips. “I love you Annie,” he said tenderly. “I love you more my sweet Michael,” Annie whispered back to him. Dr. Christina tried not to stare. One could not help but notice how much in love the two of them were. She then guided Michael out to the little waiting room where Bill and the kids were waiting. They were busy talking quietly amongst themselves. However when they saw their daddy they came alive. “Daddy is everything okay with the baby,” Blanket said. Michael sat down and Blanket came and sat next to Michael. Michael put his arm around him and said “Well buddy the doctor is going to perform some tests on Annie and that will let them know if everything is all right with Annie and the baby. But I am sure everything is fine Applehead. I don’t want you to worry okay buddy?” Michael ruffled the little boy’s hair and tenderly caressed the back of his head. “Daddy, I just want to make sure my little sister or brother is okay.” He looked at all three of them, “I love you guys, and I know Annie appreciates the way you have welcomed her into our family. And this little baby, whether it’s a little girl or a little boy, is going to be loved lots by all of us. And as long as you keep letting Annie know how much you love her, she is going to be fine. Okay guys?” “Yes daddy,” they all said.
The little group waited patiently. Dr. Thomason had specifically picked a morning where the Jacksons would be alone in the waiting room. She felt this might be comfortable for all concerned. Michael sat and thought about his wife. Pregnancy agreed with her. She was glowing and Michael couldn’t seem to keep his hands off her. He himself was trying to relax and go with the flow. Having a fourth child was a dream come true for Michael. A year ago he would have never thought this scenario possible. He now had a loving wife and another baby on the way. Now all he had to do was get his professional life in order. He smiled and closed his eyes and said a silent prayer: “First off, thank you God! Secondly, I just ask humbly God, please watch over my family. I love them all so much. And thirdly God, thanks for finally bringing a little normalcy into my life, Amen!”
It was at that moment that the doctor came out of the examining room. “Okay folks we are ready for you!” “Okay guys, let’s go,” Michael said and the small Jackson family went into the examining room to be with Annie for her first ultra sound.
They entered the examining room and Blanket immediately made a beeline for Annie. Coming to stand right next to the table that she was lying on he then said, “Mommy how are you and the baby? Daddy said that they have to test stuff.” Annie felt a warm thrill go through her. Right after they were married Michael and Annie had sat down all three children and talked about Annie’s role in their lives. Annie expressed her never ending love for all three of them and her desire for them to think of her as their mother. She also explained to them that if they wanted to call her mom they could, but if they felt more comfortable continuing to call her Annie, she was fine with that also.
Prince and Paris seemed to feel more comfortable calling her Annie and she was fine with that. But Blanket had seemed thoughtful through the whole discussion. Michael had told her, give him time he is going to start calling you mom. Mark my words. And right now, this was the first time he had actually called her mom and it was the most amazing feeling she had ever had in her life. She could feel tears welling up in her eyes. She turned to him and said tenderly, “I am fine Little Michael, just fine, and so is the baby.”
“That’s right Blanket, your mommy is doing really well and your little baby sibling is looking good,” Dr. Christina said. “I want to explain to all of you what is going to happen next. You guys are going to be able to see a picture of the baby on that screen over there. And you are also going to be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat. There are two different instruments that we use to do this. The first one is called an ultra sound. I am going to move this apparatus across your mommy’s stomach and it’s going to send out sound waves that we are going to be able to see in picture form. It’s called a transducer.” Ever interested in technical gadgetry Prince asked shyly, “May I hold it?” Dr. Christina turned to him, “Prince, right?” “Yes Doctor,” Prince politely replied. “Sure you can hold it,” the doctor said placing it in his hands. Prince took it and held onto it examining it. Then he handed it back to the doctor, “Thank you.” “You’re welcome Prince. Anymore questions,” she asked. “Will we be able to tell if the baby is a boy or girl yet?” Paris asked politely. “And you young lady are Paris, right?” “Yes Doctor,” Paris said politely. “Well not just yet Paris. We will be able to see the outline of the baby. We will be able to see the baby’s head and we will be able to see the start of the growth of its limbs, the arms and legs. But the sex won’t be determined until we do the next ultra sound on Annie. That won’t be for at least another month. And that will be up to the mommy and daddy whether or not they want the sex revealed. Sometimes they may want to be surprised,” Christina said smiling. She couldn’t help but smile around this lovely little family.
“Annie, do you want to be surprised?” Paris said as she came and stood behind Blanket next to Annie’s table placing her hand on Annie’s shoulder in an affectionate manner. “Well, your father and I will have to discuss that sweetie,” Annie said. “Okay, any other questions? Michael, any questions,” Doctor Christina said turning towards him and smiling. “No Doctor. Just anxious to see that beautiful picture,” Michael said. “Okay then lets do it! Everyone got a good view of the screen. Perhaps you would like to get closer to Annie, Michael. This can be one of the best memories that you two have…your first look at your child and I know you will want to be close to her when you see it.”
Michael moved to the other side of Annie’s table and took her hand in his and Prince went and stood next to his brother and sister. The doctor passed the transducer over Annie’s tummy till she got the right spot and voila, the picture of the baby appeared on the computer monitor. “Look Annie, there’s the baby,” Blanket shouted out. Michael squeezed Annie’s hand, “There’s our baby my sweet beautiful girl. I love him or her already!” “It’s the most beautiful picture I have ever seen,” Annie said getting choked up. Paris nonchalantly reached for Prince’s hand. It had been awhile since she held her brother’s hand. They were after all getting to be too old for that sort of thing. But all of sudden it seemed important for them to be closer.
The doctor pointed out the baby’s head and face and the start of its arms and legs. “I think he or she is smiling at all of you!” she said. “Okay, now we can use the other machine, called a Doppler to listen to the baby’s heartbeat,” Dr. Christina said. She carefully placed the transducer down and reached for the other device. “Just like with the ultrasound probe, we need to rub some of this gel onto Annie’s tummy. It will reduce static and this way we will only hear the baby’s heartbeat and not a lot of popping noises associated with static electricity. “Okay, everyone be real quiet and take a listen to Baby Jackson’s heartbeat!” The whole room was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop. And then suddenly the room was filled with the sound of a rather fast heartbeat. Michael nearly fainted. Wow! He squeezed Annie’s hand once again and everyone started to ooh and ah all at once. “That is so cool!” Prince exclaimed. “It’s beating so fast,” Paris said. “It sounds like I sometimes feel if I know I did something wrong that daddy won’t like!” Everyone started to laugh. “No need to worry…the heartbeat can often be rapid at this stage. It’s perfectly normal. The heartbeat is actually at a 140BPM.” “What’s BPM,” Prince asked. “Beats per minute,” Michael said. Blanket just stood and listened and smiled, gripping Annie’s other hand.
They all got quiet for a minute and the little Jackson family stood and listened to the baby’s heartbeat. Annie sighed happily observing nonchalantly all four of them, her new family. It was a momentous day for all of them. Annie felt certain that Baby Jackson was going to play a significant role in the healing process and that made Annie all the happier.
After Annie got cleaned up and dressed she sat with Michael and the kids in Dr. Christina’s office. She went over with Annie and Michael the importance of Annie taking care of herself. Taking her vitamins and eating right. She also said Annie was perfectly capable at this stage to lead a normal active life as long as she got plenty of sleep and again, took care of herself, resting and taking it easy whenever she felt it necessary. And lastly she discussed the due date with them. “From the information that I gleaned from the results from your original blood test that your doctor gave you in New York coupled with the information that you gave her and me regarding your last period it looks like your due date is going to be December 25th.” The kids let out a holler when they heard that. “Wow, Christmas Day. How cool is that!” Paris exclaimed. Michael was grinning from ear to ear. “A Christmas gift like no other my beautiful girl,” he said softly to Annie. “Now that doesn’t necessarily mean that she will give birth on Christmas Day,” Dr. Christina said. “But I have been known to be pretty accurate. We will review the information that we have gleaned today and of course when we do the second ultra sound we will be able to really see the progress of the baby’s growth and we will adjust that date if we have to.”
They set up the next appointment. The doctor told them that she would make similar arrangements so that they could be alone in the office that morning. Michael thanked her profusely for her understanding the importance of his privacy. “No problem Michael. It’s been a pleasure meeting all of you.” Dr. Christina’s nurse had become acquainted with Bill and she had shown him the back exits. Bill had the car brought around the back and they exited from there with no trouble at all. It seemed as though God was smiling down on the Jackson family today.
Once they had left Christina had some time until her next appointment. She sat and reflected on her first meeting with Michael and Annie Jackson. She was wonderful. She was going to make an excellent mother. And she complimented him quite nicely. He was not what she expected at all. He was sweet, kind and gracious and he was so obviously head over heals in love with his wife and kids. He had this aura about him that made you feel like you were in the presence of someone special, and it didn’t really have anything to do with his talent. Personally she had never really paid much attention to his music. She was a jazz aficionado herself and didn’t pay much attention to any other kinds of music. No, the feeling that she got from Michael Jackson was one of a spiritual nature.
Her mind wandered back to what John Branca had said about the Hollywood starlets she dealt with as patients. It had been offhanded and not designed to make her feel uncomfortable. However it hit close to home. She had recently begun to dwell in cynical thoughts about her life’s work. She felt she had been reduced to helping shallow Hollywood actresses or rich, snobby Beverly Hills housewives give birth to yet another generation of snobby, shallow children. She had a very successful practice but the money meant nothing to her. Her parents were quite wealthy and she never wanted for anything in her life. She had recently talked to her college roommate who was currently taking a leave of absence to work in a clinic in Africa assisting pregnant women. It seemed so much more important than what she was doing. Perhaps she would have to start to give serious thought to what she was doing with her life. She smiled…perhaps Michael Jackson was the catalyst she needed to make a change in her life.

Later on that night…Michael rolled off Annie, collapsing onto the bed next to her. He was breathing heavy, as was she. They had just made love and they each had that afterglow that they were both so fond of. He grasped her hand in his and brought it up to his lips kissing her fingers. He moved over and snuggled close to her, resting his head on her shoulder. She automatically moved her arm around him and she tenderly kissed the top of his head and began to caress the back of his head, running her fingers through his soft jet black hair. He nonchalantly placed the palm of his hand on her tummy, gently rubbing her there. They lay this way for several minutes, catching their breath, meditating, momentarily lost in individual thoughts. Annie tucked her finger under his chin moving his face so that she could look into his eyes. “What are you thinking about Michael?” she said softly. He moved out of her arms and propped himself up on his elbow so that he could talk to her. “I was thinking about how every time we make love it couldn’t possibly get any more intense and magical than this time, and then we make love again and that time tops the previous time. The connection is so real and so emotional for me that I cry a little bit each time I hear and feel you climax. And then when I follow you with my own, it’s like I feel like I am soaring to heaven and back again. That is how intense and magical it is Annie, each and every time.” He finished talking and buried his face into the crook of her neck inhaling her sweet scent, tasting her sweet skin with his tongue and lips, tickling her lightly as he whispered sweet nothings into her ear.
She giggled and sighed. “Michael do you want a repeat performance?” she whispered to him as he continued to send luscious thrills through her body with his lips, his tongue, and his melodic voice. He suddenly stopped and stared into her eyes intently. “I want many,” he kissed her lightly on her forehead, “many,” and then on her nose, “encore performances, Annie.” And then he finished by kissing her passionately on the lips. “However, I do need to catch my breath,” he whispered as he returned to his original position, his head resting lightly on her shoulder, and she again began to thread her fingers through his hair once again. She could feel his body relax. She knew he loved this and it had become one of her favorite things to do to make him happy. He closed his eyes and sighed contentedly. “Michael, maybe the connection is so real and intense because every day when I wake up and we start another day together, it’s like I feel I am falling in love with you all over again,” Annie said as she lovingly kissed the top of his head and then rubbed her cheek there. “So each time we make love, it’s like the first time all over again!”
“What a beautiful thing to say my sweet girl. I love you Annie!” “I love you more Michael my sweet prince!” They lay quietly again in each others’ arms. And then Annie broke the silence, “So tell me what you thought of Dr. Christina Thomason?” Michael sat up and Annie followed suit. Michael plumped up their pillows and then propped them up against the headboard and then they both sat up, covering their naked bodies with a sheet. “Well first off it’s most important that you like her girl.” “I know Michael, but you know how much I value your opinion.” He smiled. “Well, I liked her. Beyond the fact that she is very qualified I just liked the way she treated us. She treated us like a normal couple. But yet she made you feel like you were her only patient.” Annie smiled also. “I am so glad that you like her because I love her. We will have to yet again thank John Branca,” Annie said. Michael squeezed her gently. “I am so happy that I am gathering some trusted people around me again Annie.”
“So my sweet girl I bet you were in seventh heaven when my little one called you mommy today!” Michael said. Annie laughed in delight. “It was wonderful Michael. It felt so, so good!” “Just give the other two some time I am sure they will slip a mom in there once in awhile,” Michael said, kissing her lightly on her cheek. “If they continue to call me Annie, I am fine with that. But I must admit it did feel so good to hear it coming from Blanket.” She moved slightly so that she could look at him. “Michael I have something that I want to talk to you about. It has to do with the kids.” “Okay my sweet girl, anything, you know that,” Michael said lovingly, giving her another kiss on her nose and then rubbing his nose with hers—Eskimo style. He could not help but touch her and kiss her. It was like a natural urge for him to show her affection. “Well I was thinking that I would like to do something with each of them, alone. They could choose the event, though I do have a couple of ideas. I was thinking maybe a movie with Prince. And I was reading on-line about one of the Beverly Hills hotels that has an afternoon high tea—I think Paris might like that. And Blanket, well I am not sure about him yet. But it has to be something fun. And well, no one really knows who I am yet Michael, so I think it would be safe for them to leave the house without their masks. What do you think Michael? I have just been thinking that I would love to spend some one on one time with each of them.” Michael observed her as she made this request to him. He could tell this was important to her she was so excited and happy yet she asked him tentatively perhaps afraid that he would not like the idea. Michael always worried about his kids when they left the house without him, but of course he could deny her nothing. “I think it’s a great idea Annie. But you must take Bill with you. I won’t allow you or them to leave the house without security. Got that Annie?” “Of course Michael—I understand. But ultimately I want time alone with them,” she said a little stridently and then put her head down. “Annie, look at me,” Michael asked. She raised her head. “I am not saying that Bill has to be attached to your hip. Just let him and the driver take you where you want to go and then you can be by yourselves. Bill will give you your privacy. Just humor me, okay?” She smiled at him and collapsed into his arms, “Okay Michael of course, you are right. Thank you! Thank you! I love you so much.” “I love you too my sweet girl. And I love them too and I think it will be good for you to spend some one on one time with them. Though I am a little jealous, that high tea sounds grand,” Michael said smiling, kissing her lightly on the top of her head.
Annie laughed separating herself from him and lightly punching him in the arm. He reached out for her and started to gently wrestle with her, overtaking her, lowering her back to the bed and holding her wrists above her head. They stared intently into each others’ eyes. And just like that the playful moment turned into a much more erotic moment. He continued to hold her captive with one of his hands and took the other hand and started to drag his finger down across her face and down across her naked body. She shivered uncontrollably, her body bucking slightly forward. She felt flushed and warm and tingly all over and she knew she wanted him again. “Annie my sweet,” Michael said as he leaned in towards her face and started to trace a path of kisses on her cheek line meaning to get to her lips eventually. “Mmm...Yes Michael,” Annie said, closing her eyes, barely able to talk. “What did Dr. Christina say about how long we can make love before the baby is born?” She smiled to herself. “Now what makes you think I asked her that question, you nasty boy?” Annie said in a teasing voice. Michael chuckled still continuing the light kisses down her chin on to her neck and back up to the other side of her face. “Because I know you are just as nasty as me Mrs. Jackson,” he said finally letting go of her wrists. Annie wrapped her arms around his neck pulling him closer. They were both naked and she could feel the outline of his hard body sensuously against hers. “Well Mr. Jackson, she said we can continue our…ahem…normal routine…right up until right before the baby is born. Though she did say it may become slightly uncomfortable for me as I get bigger with child,” Annie said sexily into his ear. “Well Mrs. Jackson, I think we have some time before that occurs,” he said finally reaching her mouth with his lips and kissing her passionately.

In a tiny, sparsely furnished apartment in another part of Los Angeles, Suzie Alvarez lay wide awake. Loud music and laughter emanated from the apartment next door. All well, she couldn’t really sleep before the noise started anyways. She let her mind wander and she started to think about her life. When she had arrived in LA about four months ago she had big dreams. She wanted to show her mother how wrong she was by becoming some sort of super model or an actress. How naïve and stupid she truly had been.
She had allowed herself to be used for the promise of a career in the entertainment business. When she thought back to some of the things she had done her whole body shuddered and she felt physically ill. She had posed nude for several sleazy skin magazines and had even acted in a few low budget porno flicks, if you could call what she had done acting. She had been paid for each of these jobs but the feeling she had after she had done them made her skin crawl. She had frittered away what little she made anyways. And then if that in and of itself wasn’t bad enough, she usually ended up in bed with the photographer or the director or producer. She had allowed herself to be sold a bill of goods, once again allowing a slick man to lead her down a dead end path with promises of future fame and fortune if she just posed one more time. She cried herself to sleep many nights in desperation.
As the music continued to blare from the apartment next door Suzie pulled the sheet over head and allowed the hot tears to spill down her face unchecked. After a few minutes she pulled the sheet back down and said to herself, it’s okay Suzie, never again! Recently Suzie did have a change for the better occur in her life. It was just that it was an uphill battle. She said a silent prayer to God thanking him for being there for her when she needed him most and managed to calm herself down.
About a month ago, after Suzie had hit rock bottom, she had been out walking aimlessly one Sunday morning, depressed, and yes, suicidal. She had passed a small storefront church. She heard singing coming from inside. It wasn’t exactly a heavenly choir but the voices were heartfelt and the song they were singing struck Suzie to the core, “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a poor wretch like me!” She hesitated and then kept walking a few steps, but then turned around and came back and entered the building, just as the song was finishing, “I once was lost, but now I am found, was blind but now I see.” She stayed in the back but remained for the rest of the service.
It was moving and uplifting and she got up the nerve to go and shake the Reverend’s hand afterward. The name of the pastor was Reverend Lewis Smith. The name of his church was quite interesting; it was called the Church of Hope. The Reverend told her it was for those who were in need of one more chance—to improve their life or start over. It certainly resonated with Suzie Alvarez. And from then on she was a regular. She not only attended the Sunday services but she also worked in the help center. She did a little of everything whether it was sweep the floors, help out in the kitchen, or help out in the office folding the church brochures or answering phones. If only her mother could see her now. She told very little about herself to the Reverend, and there was no pressure to do so. However the Reverend did tell her if she needed anyone to talk to he was there for her.
The Reverend had actually helped her get the apartment too. He paid her a little stipend for the work she did for the church and he assisted her in getting a job at a fancy yogurt and ice cream parlor. It didn’t pay a whole lot but she was able to pay her rent, the utilities were included and she felt good about herself, something she had not felt in a long time. Suzie decided that she needed to listen to some music of her own. Perhaps that would help her relax and drown out the noise in the apartment next door. She had scraped together some money to purchase a little compact disc player and a pair of headphones. Reverend Lewis had offered her use of his compact disc collection. It was mostly r&b and soul music from the seventies and eighties. But amongst the compact discs Suzie had found an artist that she had taken a renewed interest in, Michael Jackson. She reached over and popped a disc in and put the headphones on and sat back in bed and closed her eyes. Her two favorite songs were Man In the Mirror and Keep The Faith. Both songs seemed to speak to her.
However she always felt a momentary stab of guilt when she heard Michael’s voice. She had used him and in the process had hurt not only him but her stepsister Annie Walker, and when she thought of that night months ago in New York she inevitably thought of her mother. She had recently started to think about how she wished she could set things straight with her mother. She didn’t think she would ever get the chance to set things straight with Michael Jackson or even her stepsister for that matter. But she could maybe start with her mother. But she was scared. Scared of being rejected and she didn’t think she could handle it—not yet at least. She sank back in the pillows and closed her eyes as Man In the Mirror came on, “I'm gonna make a change, for once in my life it's gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make it right . . .” The lyrics seemed so relevant to her situation. Perhaps she should talk to the Rev about it. Maybe he would be able to give her some guidance. Maybe it was time to make that change.

It was the end of June. The children were out of school and Annie was 3 months pregnant. Michael was meeting with Kenny Ortega on a regular basis. Kenny would often stay for lunch and sometimes even dinner, eating with Michael and his little family. He could see that Michael seemed to be very happy and content with his personal life but he could also see that Michael was very serious about getting his professional life back in order. Michael was still without a manager and Kenny brought it up with him one afternoon. “Have you talked to Frank Dileo recently Michael?” Kenny asked him as they sat in the library brainstorming. “The last time I spoke to him was months ago. When I came back to the states,” Michael replied. “Why do you ask Kenny?” Michael said. “Well because we will need someone sharp to be able to negotiate the tour details. And I happened to see him over the weekend at a charity event and I thought of you.”
“You didn’t speak to him about me, by any chance Kenny,” Michael said quietly. “No Michael I did not. I wouldn’t do it unless of course you asked me to,” Kenny said. Michael stood up and stretched his legs. He had actually been dreading picking new management. Michael had some bad brushes with his previous management, right before the trial and afterwards and he had no desire to go through the process. “I have been thinking about it for awhile now. Jermaine has been trying to get me to meet someone who he says would be good for me. But John Branca mentioned Frank to me also,” Michael said as he walked over to the window to look outside. He turned around and came and sat down again. “I’ve been thinking about the old days a lot Kenny. Even before I knew you,” he said smiling at Kenny. “Back when I was so excited and happy about what the future could hold for me. Before…well before a lot of dark clouds came along I guess you could say. I want this so bad Kenny. I want to do it for the fans and for my kids and for Annie, but…Let me tell you a little secret Kenny, I want it for myself. I never felt happier than when I was on a stage performing and I want that feeling again. So I want to make sure that I have the right kind of manager backing me up. I don’t want to jump into anything too quickly.” Kenny reached out and patted Michael on the back, “Well my friend we still have some time before we get to that stage of the planning. I want you to get it right Michael because I want to be with you when you step out on that stage again. I am happy and gratified and touched that you have asked me to be a part of it.” Michael smiled “Thanks Kenny. Well let’s get back to work then.”
At the same time up in Annie’s studio, the three kids sat on the couch with Annie and discussed the little field trips that Annie had in mind for them. They were thrilled with the idea. “I want to have your input on what we do together, but I do have some ideas in mind. I just want to be able to spend some time with each of you doing something that you will really enjoy. Let’s just say it’s my way of thanking you for welcoming me and making me feel like I am an important member of this family,” she said smiling at all three of them. “You are an important member of this family Annie. And I think it sounds cool. What did you have in mind for me,” Prince asked first. It seemed appropriate since he was the oldest. “Well Prince,” Annie said turning to him and giving him her full attention. “I thought maybe we could go see a move together. Your choice, of course, and then maybe we could have lunch together.” Prince smiled from ear to ear. “I love the idea Annie. I will make my choice and let you know.” She reached over and squeezed his arm, “Oh goodie, okay one down.”
“What about me Annie, I would like to hear your idea for me,” Paris said coming over and sitting next to her. Annie automatically put her arm around her shoulder. “Well sweetie, I was thinking we could do something really girly like. I have been reading about how they serve high afternoon tea at some of the fancy Beverly Hills hotels and I thought we could get dressed up and have tea together one afternoon. We could wear some pretty hats and dainty gloves, the whole nine yards! What do you think Paris my sweet?” “Oh Annie, I love the idea,” Paris said clapping her hands together. “I could maybe get a new dress to wear?” she said her eyes sparkling. “Of course my dear that sounds like a wonderful idea,” Annie said squeezing her gently and kissing the top of her head.
“Now one more,” she said turning to Blanket. She placed her arm around Blanket pulling him closer to her. “Little Michael, I wasn’t sure what we should do, but I want to do something fun with you sweetie. I know how much you like to dance, and well I have been doing some research and there’s going to be an upcoming urban dance street festival in Los Angeles. I thought maybe we could go and watch some of the performers. How would you like that kiddo?” Annie said. Blanket’s eyes got wide with wonder, “That sounds cool Annie!” “Okay, then it’s settled. I am so excited!” Annie said.
Kenny left for the afternoon and Michael went to seek out his family. He headed up to Annie’s studio. He ran up the stairs and as he approached the door he stopped and leaned up against the wall outside and listened to all four of them giggling and having a good time. He couldn’t help but smile! “Can I interrupt?” he said sticking his head in the door. “Daddy!” all three of them shouted out and ran towards him. Michael would never ever get tired of this. “No you are not interrupting,” Annie said as Blanket and Paris each grabbed one of their father’s hands and pulled him towards Annie. “Daddy, Annie is going to take us out for some fun. But just Annie, not you!” Blanket exclaimed as they all crowded on the couch together. “Wow talk about being snubbed,” Michael said in mock disbelief. “It’s okay dad, we still love you—but we love Annie more!” Prince said laughing, knowing full well that Michael was only joking.
“Well Prince I can easily see why—she’s extremely lovable!” Michael said leaning over and kissing his wife on the lips. “Hello beautiful!” he said softly. “Hello yourself beautiful,” she said softly back, reaching up and nonchalantly caressing his cheek. “Okay,” Michael said, “Tell me what the beautiful Annie has in store for all of you!” Each child excitedly relayed to Michael what their plans were for their alone time with Annie and Michael listened intently to each of them—occasionally throwing a comment in. “Then when you come back from your time together I get to hear all about it. I want a full report from each of you,” Michael said his eyes sparkling. He was truly excited about this idea. His children didn’t get to experience the outside world too much without having to resort to masks on their faces and a crowd following them around and gawking.
Soon afterwards the kids left the couple to themselves. Prince herded them out, “Come on guys, daddy and Annie need some alone time, let’s go,” he said laughing. “Thank you Prince,” Annie and Michael said. Then they were alone. “Well it sounds like your idea was a hit my sweet girl,” Michael said softly cuddling up next to his wife. “Yes. I am so happy. Thank you Michael,” she said softly to him, kissing him on the lips. “Girl stop it, you don’t have to thank me. I am happy that you are in their lives. Like I have always said, you bring a sense of normalcy to them that I have always had trouble bringing to my own life much less theirs.”
They sat on the couch together, Annie’s head resting lightly on Michael’s chest, his arms firmly wrapped around her. As usual the two of them were able to sit quietly with each other without talking and enjoy each others’ company quite complacently. Then Annie suddenly thought of something. “Michael, your mother called me this morning,” Annie said. Michael was not surprised by this. Annie and his mother had been communicating by phone on a regular basis ever since she came to California. But they had not yet gone to see his mother yet. He knew that was probably what the phone call was about. “She wants us to visit. That’s fine Annie. It’s probably about time we all went to see her.”
He looked at Annie and he could see that perhaps it was a bit more than that. “Yes, she does want to see you and meet me in person very much but,” she hesitated a moment. She wasn’t sure how he was going to react to the next part. “Well, she feels it would be appropriate for us and the kids to attend a gathering of all of your siblings, and some of your nieces and nephews and other members of your family. She feels it would be a good way for you to introduce me to your family Michael,” Annie finished and looked at him.
The look in his eyes betrayed his feelings of sadness and uncertainty and perhaps a little bit of anger…she wasn’t sure. He stood up and began to absentmindedly pace in front of her. “Michael I want to meet them and your mother thought a family dinner would be a good idea. Please don’t be angry with me,” she said plaintively. Michael stopped pacing momentarily, “I am not angry with you, I love you too much to ever be angry with you about anything, especially something like this,” he said softly. He came and sat back down on the couch and bowed his head and spoke, “If we are going to do this then fine but…” he hesitated now. “But what sweetheart,” Annie said scooting a little closer to him on the couch. He looked up at her and said “But I need you to be there for me Annie. Sometimes I feel a little weird being around all of them.
She reached over to him and pulled him into an embrace, placing his head on her shoulder. She began to gently caress his head, running her fingers through his hair, trying to work at calming him down. “Why do you feel that way Michael? They are your family. They love you baby,” she said in a soothing voice. “Isn’t it obvious Annie? I’m different from them. My skin is a different color than theirs. I look different from them. I feel like I am an outsider. I’ve told you that some of them seem to have to always have strings attached to their love for me. Yet they always come to me when they want something from me.”
“I avoid them and then I feel guilty because after all they are my family. And eventually my mother convinces me that it’s right to go along with whatever they are asking of me. I usually can resist my brothers and Joseph but around my mother I am powerless,” Michael said in a quiet voice. “Michael, are you afraid that I may take sides,” Annie said gently. “Well…the thought has crossed my mind…only because my mother can be quite convincing…and well you and she have been growing closer,” he said tentatively. “Michael I only want to meet them. I am not plotting against you,” Annie said. He pulled away from her and looked into her eyes. “I am sorry I am acting like a petulant child. I want nothing more than for you to be close to her Annie.” She reached up and brushed the hair out of his eyes tenderly caressing the side of his face. “Michael, you are my husband and I am your wife. You will always be my first concern, you and the children of course. I will be there by your side. And after all you will be one up on me, I won’t know any of them and you already know all of them,” she said laughing lightly. He smiled at her. “I promise they are not as bad as I am making them out to be. And I am proud and happy to show you off my sweet girl. Do you want me to talk to my mother or will you accept for us?” he said, pulling her back into his arms and kissing her lightly on top of her head. “I told her I would call her back. She is planning the gathering for the end of next week. I will tell her that we will be there with bells on my sweet boy.” And then they both went back to their quiet complacency.

The day of the party came. It was to be at Hayvenhurst—the Jackson estate. Katherine Jackson had kept Annie apprised of the plans during the week—who of Michael’s siblings would be expected. It turned out that all of Michael’s siblings would be there along with some of Michael’s nieces and nephews. Katherine told Annie that they were all curious to meet the woman who had captivated their brother so much. Katherine told Annie to make sure that the kids brought their swimsuits because most likely their cousins would be playing in the pool. Annie had told the kids and Michael what was going on and Annie made sure her little brood was prepared.
Michael was beginning to see the influence Annie was having on his life. It seemed with each passing day Annie was taking charge of the little family, acting more and more like a mother to the kids and a strong and loving wife to Michael. Annie was starting to slowly but surely shed some of her initial insecurities that she had when she had come to California. As she put her finishing touches on her outfit in their bedroom she reflected on how today was going to be a big test for her—meeting the famous Jackson family. However she kept her feelings to herself, she did not want to make Michael uncomfortable, because she knew if he was calm and happy and at ease than she too would be.
Michael was downstairs waiting patiently with the kids for Annie. He was actually getting a little excited. Annie had told him that his mother said all of his siblings would be there. He had not seen some of them in over a year. He did love them he thought to himself and he was excited about introducing Annie to them. He loved her so much and he wanted them to see how happy she made him. But as usual there was a little anxiety about seeing them all at the same time. And then of course Joseph would be there. But he needed to keep these thoughts to himself, for the sake of his wife and his children. He knew if he took the lead and stayed calm and relaxed and happy they all would do the same.
“Ooh…Look at Annie daddy, she is beautiful!” Blanket exclaimed. Michael looked up to see his wife coming down the stairs in a cute little sundress with a pair of dressy little flat sandals and a pretty little matching bag. She was starting to show her baby bump now. Not too big but one could see that his Annie was with child. As usual, of late, she was glowing and her curly blond hair looked especially golden today. He whistled as she came down the stairs and Paris and Prince laughed. “She is a vision of loveliness Blanket!” Michael said.
“Well thank you kind sir,” she said curtsying as she came to the bottom of the stairs. As witness to Annie’s influence over the little family she immediately inspected all of their appearances. “Okay is everyone ready? Paris, Prince, do you have your swimsuits?” “Yes Annie,” they both replied. “Little Michael what about you, are you ready to go honey?” Annie said looking at Blanket. “All ready, mommy,” Blanket replied back. He had been slipping the mom and mommy’s in for the last several weeks now. “What about sun block, are we prepared?” she said looking over at Paris. “Yes Annie, I got it in my bag along with my sunglasses.” “Good girl!” She then stood next to Michael and whispered up to him, “And what about you beautiful, you all ready to go?” He couldn’t help but laugh. “Yes mom, I am already also,” he whispered back to her, lightly kissing her on her lips. Just then Bill walked in and said, “Okay let’s go folks!” And they all filed out to the car.
The kids sat up together in one row of seats and Michael and Annie sat next to each other in the back seat. The kids were excited by the outing and therefore were chittering and chattering away with each other as they made their way to Encino. However both Michael and Annie sat quietly, holding hands, each lost in their own thoughts. She turned to him and looked at him. He was wearing a pair of sunglasses, his favorite aviators. She knew from experience that when Michael slipped his sunglasses on it sometimes meant that he was perhaps trying to hide from the world….perhaps this time he was going to try to hide from his family. She impulsively reached over and took the glasses off. He seemed surprised by her action. “Hey, what’s the idea?” he said playfully, but there was also a bit of seriousness in his voice. “I am sure your mother will want to see those beautiful brown eyes of her son,” Annie said quietly as she tucked the glasses into his pocket. “I prefer them on,” he said in an almost annoyed tone, and took them out and started to put them back on but stopped as he looked into her eyes and slowly folded them back up and put them back in his pocket contritely.
He leaned over and kissed her lightly on the lips. “I love you Annie,” he said quietly. “I love you more Michael,” Annie said automatically. She leaned her head on his chest and he wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Why so agitated sweetie, I thought you said you were getting excited about seeing them,” Annie said. “I am. I don’t know. I guess sometimes I don’t know what to expect from them and it makes me nervous. I don’t want to talk about business with any of them. Sometimes I don’t feel like their brother or their son…sometimes I feel like Michael Jackson around them,” he said in a sad voice. Annie squeezed him a little harder. “Michael how about we help you relax a little okay sweetie?” Annie said. He turned his face to look at her. “What do you suggest Annie?” “How about you close your eyes and lean your head back, and think about each of them and think about a happy memory involving one or more of them, be it something silly or something significant. You don’t have to speak them out loud. Just let the memory fill your heart with happiness my sweet Michael,” Annie instructed him.
“Okay Annie, I will give it a shot.” Michael leaned his head back and started to think about some of the more happy memories he had growing up a Jackson. Pillow fights and playing practical jokes with his brothers in the hotel rooms they stayed in while on tour, water balloon fights with Janet at Neverland, living in New York with Latoya when he was filming The Wiz, singing in church with his sister Rebbie. These were all happy moments that he would never forget. He smiled thinking about them and he opened his eyes to find his loving wife gazing at him with a big smile on her face. “Well, you feel any better Michael?” Annie asked. “I do feel tremendously better Annie. You are a marvel to me Annie. How do you do it?” he asked her pulling her into an embrace and kissing her on her nose and then on her lips. “I love you and I want you to remember that your only obligation to any of them is that you be a good brother and a good son and a good uncle, okay beautiful?” she whispered to him. “Okay Annie,” Michael whispered back.
“Daddy we are getting closer,” Paris exclaimed. Before Michael released his wife he said to her quietly, “Promise one thing though Annie?” “Yes Michael, for you two or three things even,” she said laughing lightly. He was serious though, “Promise me today that if we are not together, like you are across the room from me that you will occasionally just look for me, then if I give a signal that you come to me and help me be strong.” “Of course Michael, I will always be there for you—whenever you need me,” Annie said and this time she lightly kissed him on his nose and then on his lips.
They were just pulling into the gates of Hayvenhurst. The guard stopped the car momentarily and Bill, who was driving personally for them today rolled down the window. “Hello Mr. Jackson, good to see you again,” the security guard said. “Good to see you too!” Michael said from the back seat. All the kids said hello also. They drove up to the front of the house and there was his mother waiting for them—blessedly alone for now Michael thought. Good. His mother and Annie could have a few minutes alone.

As the car came to a complete stop the kids immediately jumped out of the car and ran to Michael’s mother shouting, “Grandma!” She hugged all three of them and was engrossed in conversation with them as Michael got out of the car first and assisted Annie. Michael took her hand and they started to walk towards the front of the house. Bill in the meanwhile got back in the car and shouted out the open window, “See you all later!” “Okay Bill,” Michael and Annie said, waving.
Paris ran back down and met Annie and Michael. Taking Annie’s hand she said, “Come and meet Grandmother, Annie, you are going to love her like we do.” Annie smiled, “I am sure I will,” she said softly looking at Michael. When they reached Katherine she gave Michael a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek and said to him, “Well it’s about time you brought this lovely lady around to meet me Michael.” Michael laughed, “Scolding me already and I just got here mother!” Then Katherine turned to Annie, “Child I feel like I already know you. Come and give me a hug.” Annie hugged Katherine Jackson for the first time and she felt like she was a little girl again, so long ago, hugging her own mother. “Hello Katherine, I am so happy to finally meet you,” she said her voice choked with emotion. They separated slightly, Katherine still holding on to Annie’s arms. “And look at you, you are starting to show!” she exclaimed. Michael smiled demurely. “Another grandchild—I can hardly wait,” Katherine Jackson said. “Neither can I grandma,” Blanket exclaimed. And then they all laughed. “Are you ready to meet the rest of Michael’s family Annie?” Katherine said looping her arm with Annie’s and leading the way. Michael and the kids followed close behind. Michael could see who was going to be the main attraction of this event! Annie leaned in and said softly, “I must admit I am a little nervous Katherine.” “Well don’t be. They won’t bite, I promise!”
They walked through the foyer and towards the main living area of the house. The first person that they saw was Joe Jackson, Michael’s father. Annie was particularly intrigued about meeting Michael’s father. Michael had obviously learned all he knew about being kind and gentle from his mother. Michael had learned how to be a consummate performer from his father—though the lessons were often wrought with a lot of heartache. Michael’s father was an intense individual and she felt immediately like she was being sized up. That was okay, she was up for the challenge. Michael had told her the history between his father and himself. He said he knew deep down that Joseph loved him and his siblings in his own way. “Well Michael it’s about time we saw your face around here. You know your family, especially your mother, has been concerned about your whereabouts since you came back to the states.” Michael said in a firm and confident voice, “Mother always knows how to reach me when necessary Joseph.” Michael inched his way over to Annie and slipped his hand into hers nonchalantly. “Joseph I would like you to meet my wife, Annie Walker Jackson,” Michael said, again in a very confident and firm voice. Joseph turned to look at Annie and said, “Pleased to meet you.” “The pleasure is mine,” Annie said demurely. “Katherine tells me that your father passed away recently, my sympathies to you,” Joseph said gruffly, but still Annie could sense he was actually expressing sympathy to her and a little bit of Annie was touched. “Thank you. It was quite a shock to me. But your son and his children have been a great deal of comfort to me,” Annie said, squeezing Michael’s hand. “Perhaps you can convince Michael the importance of making a comeback and quickly. The audience soon forgets you the longer you are away from the spotlight. Now that Michael is back in the states I think it would be a good idea for him to start buckling down and thinking about his career again,” Joe Jackson said in a very proprietary voice.
Annie glanced at Michael and she knew instinctively that nothing should be said about what Michael was planning in regards to his comeback so Annie said instead, “Joe, I may call you Joe I hope, I am afraid if Michael’s mind has not been on his career it’s my fault. You see we met and fell in love so quickly, and we have been concentrating on getting to know each other. And I have also been getting to know his children. I am afraid our first priority has been on our growing family.” Annie patted her stomach lovingly with her free hand and Michael watched in fascination as she gave his father one of her most beautiful and glowing smiles. It was enough to melt the heart of any mere mortal…but as Michael knew fully well his father was no mere mortal.
“I think that is just fine Annie. After all Joe this party is about family today and not business,” Katherine said in a very authoritative voice. Joseph then said, “Very well…speaking of family, let’s get a look at these growing grandchildren of mine.” Annie noticed a slight change in Joe Jackson as Michael’s children gathered around him. They laughed and hugged him calling him Grandpa Joe. Annie saw a softening in his face as he talked with them. Aha…so perhaps this will be the way to the man’s heart she thought! Michael was amazed—with Annie at his side he truly could hurdle any obstacle.
As they approached the living room they could hear people laughing and talking. But as they entered the room a hush literally fell over the group. And then all at once there were all of Michael’s siblings coming to greet them. It seemed only natural that Michael’s brothers were introduced to Annie first. They greeted Michael’s children with hugs and kisses. They rarely saw Michael’s kids and seeing them was as exciting as meeting Annie for the first time. Michael stood off a little from the fray and observed. “Michael what are you thinking hiding this beautiful woman away from us?” Jackie said as he tenderly kissed and hugged Annie. “So happy to meet you sister Annie,” Tito said kissing Annie gently on her forehead and then he went over and hugged Michael warmly. Tito couldn’t help but notice how Michael was beaming at his new wife. Then Jermaine was there kissing and hugging Annie. “Hey Jermaine, hands off my woman,” Michael said kidding around. “Okay brother I know, she is all yours!” And then there was Michael’s brother Marlon. He was a year older than Michael and when they were younger they apparently were like a dynamic duo wreaking havoc in every hotel room the greater worldwide! “Michael, she is lovely. When can we expect to meet the new addition?” Marlon asked as he gently squeezed Annie’s arm. “Well the doctor has indicated it may be around Christmas,” Annie said laughing. The last brother was the youngest brother, Randy. “Bro, she is beautiful,” Randy said lightly kissing her on her cheek.
Then there were Michael’s sisters. Rebbie came and hugged Michael warmly. “We don’t get to see nearly enough of you brother. You know I miss you.” “I know Rebbie, I love you more,” Michael said warmly. And then she turned to Annie, “Hello, I am Maureen—the oldest Jackson. Everyone calls me Rebbie,” she said laughing lightly. She hugged Annie warmly. “I am so happy to meet you Annie.” Then there was Latoya and Janet. “Call me Toya, they all do. You are beautiful, just glowing!” Latoya said hugging Annie. The Michael’s little sister Janet. Wow, Annie thought, Janet Jackson! “Hello!” Janet said warmly hugging Annie. “Mike you have been keeping this girl secret for too long.”
The sisters hugged Michael’s children also and everyone was talking all at once. Michael was wrong, Annie thought to herself. He said he felt like he was not one of them because of the way the disease had ravaged his skin. But he could not be anymore wrong. Michael was a Jackson through and through. All she had to do was look into the eyes of every one of his siblings and see them give that signature smile and she saw Michael in every one of them. And later on when they were alone she would reassure him of this fact. She knew this would make Michael feel good and she wanted him to realize and understand how much this family of his loved him.
Katherine Jackson suggested that the kids go out to the pool and join their cousins. Prince went and stood between Annie and Michael and looking at both of them asked, “Annie, daddy, is that okay?” Michael and Annie started to say simultaneously, “Sure it’s ok…” They both looked at each other and then Michael gave Annie a slight nod of his head as if to say it’s all yours. Then Annie continued, “Of course it’s all right Prince.” She then turned to Blanket, “Little Michael behave yourself, sweetie,” she said without thinking about how she referred to Blanket with her own special nickname. Then Blanket turned around and said “I won’t mommy!” And then ran up to Michael and Annie and gave them both a hug and then ran after his brother and sister. Michael’s sisters looked at each other and were smiling from ear to ear.

Throughout the day Annie got to speak to Michael’s siblings either individually or in small groups. And she got to meet some of his other relatives, amongst them, Tito’s three sons, Michael’s nephews, Taj, Taryll, and TJ. Michael personally introduced them to Annie and she could see that Michael cared a great deal about them. And they in turn were very excited and happy to see their Uncle Michael. They had been out in the pool with the kids and relayed to them that all three were having a blast. Michael excused himself to go check on them and the three brothers stayed behind and talked to Annie. Taj, the oldest, spoke to Annie in an honest and emotional manner. “We love Uncle Mike more than anything in the world Annie. Besides the guidance he has given us on our musical careers he was always just there for us when we needed him. After our mother died it was especially rough. But he was always there to make us laugh and to have fun with us and help us forget about everything at least for a little bit of time. We miss him though. We know after the trial it was rough for him and he seemed to want to disappear for awhile. Perhaps now that you are in his life you can convince him to come around more often and see all of us,” The nephews had a gentle and soft spoken manner and once again she could see Michael in all three of them.
That seemed to be the recurring theme of the day for Annie. When she was alone with one or more of them they each expressed to her that they were gratified to see Michael happy and that they loved seeing his children. They missed him and wanted only to know that he was okay. The party was a lovely affair. The food was good and the company even better. She saw that Michael seemed relaxed and happy, but as promised, when Annie and Michael were separated she would occasionally look for him in the crowd, just to check on him, just to let him know that she was there for him. On these occasions he would look up and smile at her—and when she discerned that all was well she would go back to her conversation.
The time flew by and soon it was the late afternoon. As she was talking to Rebbie and Katherine Jackson she felt suddenly compelled to look for Michael. She looked up as nonchalantly as possible so as not to be rude in front of Katherine and Rebbie and scanned the room. She saw Michael engrossed in a conversation with his brother Jermaine. Michael looked up all of sudden and their eyes met. They had such a connection to each other that she knew that Michael wanted her to come to him. Not that Michael seemed agitated or sad or angry…but she just felt like he needed her. She excused herself, “Would you ladies excuse me? I would like to find Michael and perhaps sit down for a few minutes before we leave. I will make sure we say goodbye though before we leave,” she said. Katherine squeezed Annie’s arm and said, “Of course child, go find your husband. When a pregnant woman needs to sit, she should sit!” “Thank you Katherine,” Annie said demurely and started to walk towards Michael. Rebbie and Katherine watched her as she departed. “So what do you think Rebbie?” Katherine Jackson asked her oldest offspring. “Mother I think Michael is going to be okay as long as he has her in his life. She is exactly what he needs. And the kids love her. She is going to make a fine mother,” Rebbie answered. “My sentiments exactly,” Katherine said smiling.
Michael didn’t want to have this conversation with Jermaine. It had been a good day today and he was very happy that Annie had convinced him to come. But right about now he was getting tired and wanted nothing more than to be alone with his beautiful wife. And he knew for sure that he did not want to talk “business” with Jermaine. “Michael I know this guy could be good for you. He’s very well connected and he could do impressive things for you. At least meet him. Look Mike you have to let your family help you. You have been out of the music biz for awhile. Why don’t you let me help you Mike?” Jermaine said in an earnest voice to his brother. “Jermaine I am not ready to make a decision yet bro. And besides that perhaps I have someone else in mind to manage me. It’s not like I have never been successful in my life Jermaine,” Michael said in a rather peeved sounding voice. “Mike it’s not that, it’s just that sometimes you allow yourself to be surrounded by people that don’t have your best interests at heart. Why wouldn’t you prefer to have your big brother looking out for your best interests? I am your family Michael. Always remember that you are a Jackson. I never forget that Mike.”
That part rang all too true for Michael. It was something that he beat himself up for constantly and he refused to believe that Jermaine intentionally said it to hurt him but nonetheless it hurt. Michael was developing a headache at the path that this conversation was taking and suddenly he knew he had to have Annie by his side now or he might explode. He casually looked up and suddenly there she was, across the room talking to his mother and sister. She smiled at him and her smile filled him with joy and he smiled back at her. But then he noticed her coming towards him, without even really signaling her, and he felt even better! As she neared him he extended his hand outwards, not too obviously, just obvious enough for her.
As Annie approached Michael and Jermaine she could see his hand extend out to her and within seconds she was slipping her hand into his. He wrapped his long fingers around hers and he gently squeezed her palm. Jermaine watched as the two of them became lost in each other. His brother seemed to have found someone special in this woman. Michael looked into her eyes and as was wont to happen when they were in each other’s presence everyone else in the room disappeared. “Hello beautiful,” he said softly. Annie heard only his voice and saw only his eyes in a room full of people and she whispered back to him, “Hello yourself beautiful!” They leaned into each other and kissed each other sweetly and quickly on the lips.
They both broke away from each other and then both turned red when they came back to reality, they were not alone and Jermaine was smiling at the both of them. “I am sorry Jermaine, I did not mean to interrupt your conversation. It’s just that I was thinking perhaps that I would like to sit down for a bit before we start to say goodbye,” Annie said in a sweet voice. “That’s okay Annie. I was just trying to get my stubborn brother to realize the importance of letting his family help him out and talking about how important one’s family is to him. Here’s the guy’s card Mike, at least talk to him.” Michael took the card and absent mindedly slipped it into his jacket pocket. He then looked at his brother and simply said, “If you will excuse me Jermaine, my wife needs me. C’mon sweet girl, lets go find a comfortable seat for you!” And Michael firmly took Annie by the arm and walked away holding on tightly to her. Jermaine watched them walk away. Annie quizzed Michael, “What was that about my sweet boy?” “I don’t want to talk about it here Annie, when we get home and we are alone. But thanks for coming to my rescue. How did you know I needed you girl?” Michael said as they sat down next to each other on an empty couch. “Well I’ve been looking out for you all day, just like you requested Michael. And just now I got the urge to look for you once again. We have such a strong connection to each other my sweet boy,” Annie said relaxing as he put his arm around her. “It’s because of our connection to each other Annie that we know when we need each other the most,” Michael said softly. They both sat together in each other’s arms and rested before they went to look for the kids and start to say their goodbyes.

They arrived home in the early evening after the gathering. The kids were exhausted so they ate a quick dinner and made an early evening of it. The kids took their bathes and got into their pajamas and then Michael and Annie read to them. Afterwards both Annie and Michael retired early. Michael sat at the desk in the bedroom his glasses perched on his nose, writing while Annie lay in bed reading. She soon put her book down and called out to Michael, “Are you coming to bed Michael?” He turned to look at her and smiled, “Of course my sweet, beautiful girl.” He closed his notebook and laid the glasses on the desk and came over and sat on the bed opposite her.
“Did you have a good day today Michael?” Annie asked him. “I did Annie. It was like a day that I have always dreamed of having, my wife and kids—my family spending a day with my other family. “My kids, playing around with their cousins and my wife laughing and sharing stories with my mother and my sisters, and me, remembering the good old days with my brothers. It was very nice Annie. It’s what I have always wanted for myself and for my children. It was normal,” he said lifting her hand to his mouth and grazing her fingers with his lips.
She smiled at him. “Well the kids seemed to have had a very good time today. They were so exhausted they fell right to sleep tonight!” Annie said squeezing his hands. He looked into her eyes and said “You were a big hit with my family Annie, they loved you girl! But that doesn’t surprise me, you are so very easy to love my sweet girl,” and Michael leaned in and gave her a quick kiss on the lips.
“Michael I think they loved me because they know that I make you happy. Your happiness is very important to them. They love you very much Michael. Michael leaned back against the headboard of the bed. “I want to believe that Annie, I do,” he said quietly. She took his hand again and squeezed it, “Then believe Michael. They have missed you Michael and they were worried about you. They feel that you isolate yourself away from them and in the past when that happened…” she hesitated with what she was about to say. He looked at her intently and said, “What Annie, tell me…” “They feared you may have turned to drugs to numb your pain,” she said
Michael closed his eyes and said in a painful voice, “They told you that?” Annie started to tenderly caress Michael’s arm and said, “Yes they did Michael. They feared for your life but they also know how much you value your privacy, and they don’t know how to approach you for fear of being rejected or alienating you even further away. They see in me a way to bring you back home again Michael.” As she let the words sink in with him she watched him. She did not want him to feel like he was being ganged up on. So they both sat quietly for several minutes, Michael with his eyes closed and Annie still rubbing his arm gently. Then Michael said, “They have nothing to be afraid of. Yes…there were times in the past that I resorted to painkillers to help me…but it’s not been that way in awhile. There are no drugs—you know that, you live with me Annie!” he said looking into her eyes.
“I am fine, and I have told them that I am fine. I guess I do isolate myself from them. Perhaps I project my fears and insecurities onto them. But it’s always been that way, at least since I was a teenager. When I was with all of them I would sometimes hold myself apart from them because I felt like I didn’t belong.” He opened his eyes and he pulled her over to him, embracing her tightly and resting his chin on the top of her head. “I know I have hurt them but it’s a two way street, there have been times where they hurt me,” he said rather fiercely. Annie could feel him trembling slightly and knew he was getting emotional. She attempted to calm him down. “I know baby,” Annie said soothingly, “but how about hearing me out for a few minutes, okay my sweet Michael?” “All right Annie…of course,” he replied. “Michael when I was a teenager I longed for a big family. To have a house full of brothers and sisters would have been a dream come true for me. I guess it is ironic—I wanted what you had and at times you probably would have envied what I had. So perhaps we can work together.”
She separated herself from him and gazed into his eyes. She tenderly brushed the lock of hair off his face and as she touched his cheek she could feel the dampness of his tears there. “I am thinking that if I can grow closer to them perhaps you can try to reconnect with them at the same time, this way our children will be able to grow closer to their cousins and their aunts and uncles and be able to spend more time with their grandmother and grandfather. But Michael this only happens if you feel comfortable with it.” She looped her arms loosely around his neck and moved closer to him, nuzzling his chin with her lips and then whispering softly into his ear, “I want to help you feel more like Michael around them and less like Michael Jackson. What do you think baby?”
Michael pulled her back into his arms and held her tightly against his chest. “What happens when they ask me to do something I don’t want to do?” he asked her quietly. Annie held him tightly also, moving her arms up and down his back. Her face was buried in his chest and her voice was slightly muffled, “Well then you come to me and we can talk about it…you and me Michael. You are always my first and foremost, my main concern. I will try to instill strength in you so that you can tell them “No, I love you, but no!”
His face was damp with his tears. He felt so emotional talking about this. He had held so many of these feelings and thoughts inside of himself—never really able to totally trust anyone enough to reveal them too—until Annie came along. “If I say no to them, it doesn’t make me a bad person Annie? It doesn’t mean that I am turning my back on being a Jackson?” She separated herself from him again, looking into his soulful, dark eyes. She caressed his face lovingly, “No Michael, of course not! Is this the burden you carry my sweet Michael?” He closed his eyes and nodded his head mutely. Annie quickly said to him, “Michael I want you to remember what I said before. Your only obligation to them is to be a loving and devoted son, sibling and uncle.”
He looked up and once again pulled her into an embrace and whispered in her ear, “I love you. With you and God on my side I am willing to give it a try. I love them all Annie. I really do,” he said, and slowly but surely Annie could feel him relax in her arms. “I love you too Michael. And thank you! I promise I will always be there for you my sweet prince! We will do this together.”
“Annie there is something I want to talk to you about. It’s about the conversation that I had with my brother Jermaine at Hayvenhurst this afternoon. “Hold on let me get the card that Jermaine handed to me.” Michael got of bed and went over to where his jacket was laying and reached into the pocket. He pulled out the calling card and read the name to himself as he walked back over to the bed. The name on the card read “Dr. Thome Thome.”

Michael slid into the bed next to Annie and leaned back on the headboard. “What’s up baby?” Annie said moving closer to him. “Well you know how I have been ruminating on a new manager—Jermaine has someone he wants me to meet. This guy,” and Michael handed the card to Annie. Annie took the card and read the name. Michael continued, “Jermaine is impressed with him, seems to think he has a good mind for negotiating deals and could be good as a business manager.”
“Are you interested in meeting him?” Annie said quietly to him. Michael took the card from Annie and began to twirl it between his fingers, absent mindedly. He bowed his head slightly and said, “Jermaine reminded me that I don’t always surround myself with the best advisors…and that he is my big brother and who better to look out for me.” Annie reached over and lifted his chin up. She said to him, “Come here,” and she pulled him over to her. He laid his head on her shoulder and Annie began to tenderly thread her fingers through his hair. “I think I know how you feel...You care so much about your art—your music—your creative side, and you don’t want to have to bother with certain business aspects. But you have been burned; you have had a hard time finding somebody to trust. And you know this and it hurts you, you feel like you messed up. So when your brother comes to you and makes a statement like that and suggests someone, you feel like perhaps you should follow his advice and listen to him because after all he is your brother and he is older than you and you think maybe he's right. But you are torn because you don’t necessarily want to just give in to Jermaine’s wishes because you feel obligated. Am I right my sweet boy?” Annie said to him. She tenderly kissed him on the top of his head.
“Where did you get to be so wise?” Michael said to her kissing her shoulder lightly. “Besides, I have someone else in mind that I want to manage me. I have been thinking about him for awhile. But Jermaine is right. I have made some bad decisions in my lifetime and I have become gun shy because I am afraid of making yet another mistake,” Michael said. Annie continued to caress the back of his head lovingly and said, “Who is it that you have in mind Michael?” He closed his eyes and relaxed, turning his face more into her shoulder inhaling her sweet beautiful scent. “He was my original manager; you’ve heard me mention him before, Frank Dileo. I guess I have been thinking of him ever since I saw Branca. They were both people that I trusted implicitly at one time. And I think I feel like I can still trust them both. They were both with me during a time when I was very successful. It just feels right to me Annie.”
Annie could hear the intensity in Michael’s voice. She wanted Michael to make this decision on his own, without her influence, but also without Jermaine’s influence. So she chose her words carefully. “Michael, I think it’s important that you follow your instincts. Forget about everything that has occurred in the past….trust your true feelings. Don’t let me or your family, hinder your decision.” He sat quietly in her arms as she continued to smooth her hand across his back and kiss him lightly on his head. He sat up suddenly and said, “I love you very, very much,” and he kissed her on her lips. “I can’t wait for you to meet Frank, Annie. I know you will love him.” And he pulled her into his arms. She fiercely hugged him back resting her head on his shoulder. “I love you very, very much also, and I can’t wait to meet him either Michael!” Michael tossed the card up on the nightstand. It didn’t quite make it. It hit the corner of the nightstand and proceeded to bounce into the nearby trashcan. In the meanwhile Michael gently lowered his wife onto their bed and began to thank her for the loving and calming influence she had on him. Annie sighed contentedly as he started to kiss her senseless. Another part of the healing process completed.

Michael called Frank Dileo and within a week Annie was introduced to him. Frank was yet another one of Michael’s inner circle of friends and family that came to love Annie almost immediately. There would be times in the future, as their relationship deepened, that he found out that Annie was not a pushover and when it came to protecting Michael’s health and well being—well look out if she perceived that Frank was taking advantage of Michael in any way, shape or form! Michael was so happy and upbeat. John Branca had told him that she was a lovely woman as well as Kenny Ortega and he was gratified to find out for himself that she was indeed.
Late in July, Michael had a new manager in place, new legal counsel and he and Kenny Ortega were starting to seriously put together some of their ideas in the infancy stages of a planned concert or show. Annie was four months pregnant, but nothing seemed to slow her down. With the help of John Branca, Annie was doing a preliminary search for an author and collaborator for her children’s book, plus she still continued to work on her art, either on her illustrations for the book or some other creative piece that she was working with on the side. And now the kids were excited because Annie was also starting the promised field trips. They decided Paris would be first, then Prince, and then Blanket.
Paris had very much taken to the idea of having afternoon tea with Annie. Annie chose the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. They served a lovely afternoon tea in the stately old lobby of the hotel. Together Annie and Paris each picked out new dresses from an on-line site and had them delivered quickly just in time for their date. And Annie found them some nice hats to accompany the new dresses. They looked very pretty and sweet that summer afternoon as they came down the stairs. Michael kissed his daughter on her cheek and said softly, “You are such a pretty young lady my lovely one!” Paris blushed and said “Thank you Daddy, I love you!” And then Michael turned to Annie, her baby bump now becoming more and more noticeable. He pulled her into an embrace and rubbed her tummy tenderly with the palm of his hand, “And you my sweet girl look ravishing,” he whispered sexily into her ear as he leaned in and kissed her. “Thank you Michael and I love you too!” Annie said.
They arrived at the hotel inauspiciously. It seemed that Annie was still a mystery and they had been very discreet as they left the house—driving around for several minutes before it was felt as though no paparazzi or fans were following them—and as Michael had requested Bill was with them but he was very inconspicuous and Annie hardly remembered that he was even there. And as soon as they arrived Bill bid them goodbye and instructed Annie in no nonsense terms, “Call me when you are ready for me to come and get you. And Annie, if you feel you need me for any other reason, please, call me…I won’t be too far away…got that?” “Yes Bill, I understand. Thank you!” Annie was still getting used to all of this, but knew not to second guess Bill.
They were seated promptly and given the menus to order. Annie ordered a small pot of herbal tea and Paris ordered a small pot of Earl Gray. The waiters were very attentive but discreet. They served them an assortment of little tea sandwiches and delicious scones with homemade Devonshire cream and jam. And later on an assortment of pretty little pastries appeared for dessert. Annie felt herself relax. It felt good to be here with Paris in such a beautiful and stately setting. Michael would love this she thought as she looked at their surroundings. There was an ornate carved wood ceiling with gold leaf accents and a beautiful rose marble fountain.
As they daintily sipped their tea they talked about everything and anything. Paris felt so comfortable with Annie. When Annie had told them that it was okay if they wanted to call her mom but that they didn’t have to—Paris was torn. She had come to know her as Annie and she wasn’t sure about how comfortable she was yet in calling her mom. She wanted to talk to Annie about it and thought this was the most perfect time to do it—without her brothers or father around, just the two of them.
“Annie can I talk to you about something,” Paris asked. “Of course sweetie, anything,” Annie said drawing her chair a little closer to Paris. “I just wanted to tell you that I don’t want you to be upset because I have not called you mom yet,” Paris said softly. And then she looked up at Annie and said shyly, “I wouldn’t want to do anything to upset you Annie because I love you so much. And I feel very close to you. But I like calling you Annie.” Paris looked down again and Annie felt Paris’s anguish. “Oh Paris sweetie…it’s all right. I love you very much also,” and Annie put her arm around Paris and hugged her. “I want you to be comfortable with me and if you are comfortable calling me Annie that is perfectly okay Paris.”
Paris looked up at Annie and she smiled at her, seeing that smile on her face made Annie feel much better. “Annie, it’s not that I won’t ever call you mom, because I will. Just give me a little bit of time. And you know what else Annie,” Paris asked still smiling. “What’s that sweetie,” Annie asked her. “When the baby is born you will already know how to be a good mom because you had practice with us,” Paris said giggling. Annie giggled also. “I fell in love with your father but I also fell in love with you guys too. Thank you very much Paris. I know you and your brothers will be such a big help with the baby.”
“Annie have you and daddy decided whether or not you want to know if we are going to have a sister or a brother?” Paris asked. “Your father and I have not discussed it yet. I think I would like it to be a surprise though,” Annie said. “I would like a little sister,” Paris blurted out. And then said anxiously, “But if it’s a boy that is all right too. I promise Annie I will love him just as much!” Annie smiled at Paris. She was so sensitive, just like her father. She quickly reassured her. “I know you will love this baby just like you love your brothers Paris, whether it’s a sister or a brother. But I also understand how special it would be for you to have a little sister, a little sister to help guide and teach, to share your room with, to confide in and talk with late at night, with the lights out. I know because I used to dream about the same thing honey.” Paris looked at Annie and then got out of her chair slowly and put her arms around Annie and proceeded to hug her. And she said softly into her ear, “Thanks mom! I love you Annie!” Annie smiled and hugging Paris back she said in an emotional voice, “I love you more Paris!”

Annie and Prince walked into the theatre virtually unnoticed. Once again Bill had left her with her instructions—“Annie call when the movie lets out and call if you feel like you need me for anything else. I will be close by.” Once inside the lobby Annie turned to Prince, “Hey, how about some popcorn or candy or anything you want,” she said laughing putting her arm around his shoulder and hugging him. She felt exhilarated. She had such a good time with Paris last weekend and now here she was with Prince. Again she kind of wished that Michael could be here with them but she was also happy to be here with his son, bonding with him was very important to Annie.
Prince was also excited about his outing with Annie. It was kind of nice having her all to him. He enjoyed talking to her. She was so open to talking about anything and everything and this was the perfect opportunity away from his brother and sister and his dad. “Popcorn is good for me Annie,” Prince said to her. “I love popcorn too buddy and I am going to have some Sno-Caps also,” Annie said as they drew closer to the concession counter. Annie was starting to experience pregnancy cravings. And right now the combination of the salty popcorn and the chocolate candies sounded divine Annie thought naughtily! As they waited for their order Prince said to her in a quiet voice, “This reminds me of Neverland. Dad always had popcorn and all kinds of candy at the movie theater.” “Do you remember a lot about living at Neverland?” Annie asked Prince. He waited for Annie to finish paying and then they started to walk towards the theatre. “Paris and I were young but I do remember some of it…like the movie theatre and the train. And I also remember that there was lots of land to run around on. That was always neat. I guess the thing I remember most was that my father was happy there a lot of the times,” Prince said wistfully. Annie placed her free arm around Prince and said to him in an earnest voice, “Prince I know how much your father loved Neverland, but don’t ever doubt your ability to make him happy. When I first met your father and he knew how sad and grief stricken I was because of the loss of my father he wanted me to meet you and your brother and sister. He said Prince that when he was at his lowest point he would always seek you guys out because he loved to laugh and have fun with you guys and you always gave him strength. And that first time I met you and Paris and Blanket you made me feel so loved and so happy. So see buddy, it doesn’t necessarily matter where we live, as long as we can all be together.”
They proceeded into the theater and found some seats to their liking. It was Prince’s choice and he had suggested Journey to the Center of the Earth. It was a remake of an old film based on the Jules Verne classic book. Annie recalled seeing the original movie from the fifties in a revival film house in Manhattan. Her father had taken her. It was one of the only grand old theaters still left in New York. This latest version was in 3-D. So it proved to be thoroughly enjoyable especially since she could tell Prince was enjoying it so much.
After the movie ended she called Bill and he came and picked the two of them up. No one knew who they were...but that didn’t necessarily mean that they did not attract attention. Annie’s pregnancy had her glowing as Michael and the kids already knew—enhancing her beauty even more. And there were those who stopped and stared at the beautiful woman and the cute kid she was with. It was obvious that they were mother and son.
The next stop was lunch and again Annie asked Prince where he would like to go. He chose McDonald’s. “I know dad doesn’t always like us to eat too much junk food Annie,” Prince said after he announced his choice. “That’s okay kiddo, this is a special occasion. Don’t worry your father, won’t be upset,” Annie said. Bill dropped them off again with a reiteration of the instructions and then Annie and Prince entered the restaurant. They got their food and sat down and started to dive in. Prince got a Big Mac, fries and a chocolate milkshake. Annie got a chicken sandwich, fries and a chocolate milkshake. They discussed the movie while they ate. “I especially liked the 3-D effects,” Prince said and then continued on in a shy voice, “I would like to learn how to do that someday. I think that would be so cool!” “Perhaps as you get older you can pursue that interest Prince,” Annie said. “Daddy is interested in making movies also. I think that is why I am so interested in it. He gets so excited when we watch a movie and even if it’s a movie that he has seen a whole bunch of times, he still gets excited about seeing it again. Like Star Wars!” Prince said giggling and Annie joined in with him.
Annie and Prince finished their lunch and walked out into the mall. “Shall I call Bill to come and retrieve us?” Annie said turning towards Prince. “Annie do you think we can walk around the mall a little bit before we call Bill?” Prince said tentatively. “Sure, why not. Though I think both Michael and Bill will scold me when they find out!” Annie said mischievously. Prince said laughing, “I promise I will tell them that I made you!”
They started to walk around the mall—mostly window shopping—chatting and laughing as they walked. To the unknown eye they were a mother and her pre-teen son shopping on a Saturday afternoon. Not the wife and son of Michael Jackson. Eventually they found a bench and sat down and continued talking. “When we were in Ireland it seemed like we could all go out together and no one bothered us. It was nice. We didn’t have to wear the masks or cover our faces,” Prince said. He quickly looked at Annie and said, “It’s not that we don’t understand why dad wants us to wear them, because we do. When we were younger he would make a game of it, like pretend it was Halloween. When we got a little bit older he would tell us it’s because we need to always leave them with a little mystery. That we should always keep them guessing! I used to not be entirely sure who they were. But we really knew he did it to protect us and Annie because we love him so much we would do anything that he asks us to do.” Annie put her arm around Prince and said softly for his ears only, “Hey, mind if I give you a hug kiddo?” Prince ducked his head shyly and said, “I don’t mind Annie!” And Annie hugged him and said to him, “You are so smart already kid, you take after your father so much!”
Annie felt her phone vibrating in her pocket. “Uh oh, I think we are in trouble!” she said smiling. She pulled the phone out of her pocket and saw that it was Bill calling her. Be prepared for a scolding she thought to herself. “Look Mrs. Jackson I know you want to spend time alone with them but you have got to tell me what you are doing and where you are at. If the boss finds out that I left you alone for this long he will have my head.” She knew Bill was upset because he rarely ever called her Mrs. Jackson. “It’s okay Bill we are ready to go home. And I will take full responsibility with your boss!” she said in a sweet voice. She told him what door they were going out of and he met them there swiftly in the big black SUV in a matter of seconds. As they got in she could hear him grumbling. “Please Bill I am a grown woman that grew up in the big tough city of Manhattan, I am well aware of how to take care of myself.” He turned around and smiled at her, “Okay Annie, I know you are. Just tell the boss that I yelled at you so that at least he thinks I am taking care of you!” Both she and Prince smiled and laughed.
Annie looked out the window nonchalantly as they drove away. She felt a slight shiver run up her spine. She would not let on to Bill but she could have sworn that someone was following them out the door of the mall but when she had looked back nervously there did not appear to be anyone out of the ordinary watching her and Prince. Just the typical average mall goers and she thought to herself, Annie get a hold of yourself, it was nothing.

Michael sat at the desk in their bedroom lost in thought. He was supposed to be writing, but had taken off his glasses and was resting his eyes. Tomorrow his wife would take his youngest, Blanket, out for his special outing with her. Tonight, at the dinner table, Paris and Prince had recounted their trips to all of them. Michael watched their eyes light up as they exuberantly described in detail their outings with Annie. Blanket clapped excitedly, filled with anticipation for his big outing tomorrow. His kids loved Annie. There was no doubt in Michael’s mind that they now thought of her as their mother and while that made him happy he could not help but feel...well frankly, he was mortified and disgusted with himself for feeling what he was feeling right now.
Michael knew because of who he was his kids would never want for anything. A beautiful home, any kind of gadget or toy they could ever desire, an education that far surpassed his own, anything in the world. But the one thing he could not provide them was a normal life. And that always seemed to be the one thing that ate away at him. They could not leave the house with their father without donning masks or scarves to cover their faces and an entourage of bodyguards. And even with the masks every time they were out together they were hounded by photographers and reporters and fans seeking autographs.
Hearing about how Annie took them out without so much as an incident—how Prince and she had walked around the mall window shopping—well frankly it made him sick with envy—he was jealous of her and he was ashamed. He closed his eyes and let his head fall forward into his hands. Get a hold of yourself Michael, he scolded himself. You love her and you love them and she is assisting you in giving them the normalcy that you so desire, but why does it have to hurt so much he thought?
Just then Annie walked into the room. She paused momentarily watching him. He was hunched over sitting at the desk, his head in his hands. She could see clearly that something was disturbing him. She started to walk silently towards him. Michael could sense her presence behind him and suddenly her warm, loving arms were surrounding him. She whispered in his ear, “Hey my sweet Michael, watcha thinking about?” He lifted his head; eyes still closed, and leaned back into her chest, enjoying the loving warmth and protection of her arms. Not wanting to let on that anything was bothering him he said in a quiet voice, “Nothing special Annie. You know me, always lost in my creative thoughts.”
She knew that to be true but she doubted this was all there was to his contemplative nature tonight. And she could hear the strain in his voice. He was emotional for some reason and she wanted to know what it was that was bothering him so that she could help him. She still recalled the dream that she had so many months ago right after she arrived in California. A dream that she felt strongly was meant to guide her towards helping Michael achieve his dreams and make him whole again. And now that is all she desired. So she whispered again in his ear, “Why don’t you come and lie down with me sweetie?” “Okay,” Michael said. He got up slowly and he let her take his hand and lead him to the bed.
They both got into the bed and almost immediately Michael allowed Annie to pull him closer to her, his head ended up resting on her shoulder. Thinking to calm his emotions he buried his face into her shoulder kissing her and nuzzling her there with his lips, inhaling her sweet scent. She started to thread her fingers through his hair. “I love you my sweet beautiful girl,” he said quietly, “never forget that Annie no matter what, okay?” “I love you more my sweet beautiful Michael,” she said softly in return, bending her head down and tenderly kissing him on top of his head. “Why do you sound so ominous Michael, is something the matter?” she asked. “Nothing, except that I am so stupid,” he said his voice muffled. “Michael, of all the ways to describe you I would say stupid is the farthest from the truth,” Annie said. “Annie…I...I am feeling something that makes me feel ashamed,” Michael said tentatively. “Why don’t you share it with me Michael,” she said softly.
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath and said, “As I listened tonight to my children describe their outings with you, so free and so happy, so unfettered of any kind of celebrity trappings—on the one hand I was so happy and filled with joy that they could have this experience with someone that they truly loved—a real parental figure and not just a nanny or a tutor, but on the other hand I was…” he moved away from the protection of her arms, sitting up on the bed, and he turned away from her, not wanting to look at her when he said what he wanted to say. He continued in an emotional filled voice, “It’s not that I begrudge you any time that you spend alone with them. It’s just that…I was sick with jealousy that I could not be the one to give it to them Annie.
Michael bowed his head in shame after he made the statement. Annie took a moment to digest what he had just said and then she sat up also. She wrapped her arms around him again and said, “Turn around my sweet Michael, please.” He turned around so that now he was facing her but his head was still bowed down. She then cupped her hand under his chin raising his face to look at her. His eyes were always so fathomless—filled with such depth of emotion. She dropped her hand casually and he immediately took it in his own. “Are you upset with me for saying that Annie?” he asked her in a rather forlorn whisper. She took her hand still clasped in his and brought it up to her lips and lovingly brushed it with a kiss. “I am not upset Michael. Why don’t you come and lie with me again and we can talk about it, okay my sweet boy?” she said in a loving and soothing voice.
He nodded his head and she lied down and Michael came and laid his head on her shoulder and once again Annie started to thread her fingers through his hair. “Michael what you are feeling is very human and very real. I want you to relax and I want you to listen to me, all right baby?” He closed his eyes and then nodded his head mutely and she continued. “Michael who defines what is normal? I imagine everyone has their own definition of what they constitute as normal. Because of whom you are and your past,” she felt him tense up momentarily at the mention of his past, but she continued to lovingly caress his head and he relaxed his body once again, “You have carved out your own version of normalcy. And your children are no worse for the wear Michael. As a matter of fact I spoke to your oldest about this very thing. Would you like me to tell you what we talked about sweetie?” Annie said.
He looked up at her and said quietly, “Annie, I don’t want to betray Prince’s trust in you, are you sure you want to tell me?” Annie marveled at this wonderful man—such a good father. “It’s okay Michael. I know he won’t mind. We talked about the masks Michael.” Again she could feel him tense up. “It’s okay Michael…it’s okay,” she said in a soothing voice, tenderly caressing his back with her hand. “They understand so much more than you realize Michael. He told me that he understands why you have them wear them. He understands that it is to protect their identity while out with you. They love you so much Michael and they would do anything to ensure your happiness because they love you so much. So you see Michael, to them this is perfectly normal. Michael there are so many young adults out there that are in trouble. You know that. They are into drugs, drinking, and having sex way too early, and with parents that don’t care about them. Your children Michael know what it means to love and be loved; they believe in God, they are thoughtful, humble, smart, inquisitive and curious about life. You have successfully kept them away from the celebrity whirlwind that surrounds you. In spite of what you think Michael, you have given them a normal life.”
She squeezed him and kissed him tenderly on the top of his head and continued. “Michael I can’t wait for this little one to be born,” she took her hand in his and placed it on her stomach, “Because I know he or she will be raised by two loving, caring, responsible parents. We are a family Michael—a happy, normal family. Just because they may not be able to go out with you to a mall or a theater or wherever with you without masks or you being disguised, doesn’t make their upbringing any less normal. What do you think sweetie?”
He was quiet for a minute or two and then he slowly separated himself from her. He took her in his arms and embraced her, giving her a warm and loving hug. “You are such an amazing woman Annie. I am so lucky to have you as my wife my sweet, beautiful girl. You always know what to say to make me feel so much better. To make me feel like everything is going to be okay. I love you Annie!” With his arms still around her he slightly separated himself from her so that he could look into her eyes. He then slowly lowered her so that she was lying on her back and he was gazing down at her. And just like that, he wanted her.
Annie could see his eyes were darkening with desire and she became excited just looking at him. He lowered his face closer to hers and began to graze his lips along her cheek till he reached her ears and he nibbled there for a few seconds and then he whispered in a shy, oh so sweet voice, “Annie, I need you so much, will you make love to me my sweet wife, please!” Annie felt her insides melt and she felt as though a warm liquid was shooting through every part of her body; that was the effect his words had on her. How could she deny this beautiful, sweet man, her husband, anything! “It would be my pleasure my sweet Michael cuz I love you so much!”

After lunch the next day, Annie, Blanket and Michael stood waiting in the foyer for Bill to drive the car around to the front. It was time for Blanket’s special outing with Annie and he was overcome with so much excitement that he danced in the foyer as they waited. Michael smiled and laughed as he watched his son. He was very talented Michael admitted to himself. He put his arms around Annie and pulled her back to his chest as they watched Blanket together. “Hello beautiful girl,” he whispered in her ear. “Hello yourself beautiful,” Annie said slightly turning her head and giving him a kiss on his cheek.
Last night Annie had allayed his fears once again and they had made sweet love afterwards. She was an amazing woman Michael thought to himself. Each time he had come to her and revealed to her one of his secret anxieties she had lovingly talked him through it and he always felt so much stronger afterwards—like he could truly conquer the world again as long as she was by his side. He had thought about his conversation with Annie last night. She was right. Who was the arbiter of normalcy anyways…it was not like him to ever bow to convention, right? He had made peace with himself and he no longer felt that bitter envious feeling that he had last night. He loved his girl and his kids way too much to be harboring such bitter thoughts. With her help he had been able to let those thoughts go and he knew they would never, ever return.
However, he was thinking that it was good that no one knew who Annie was. They had not made their relationship or the new baby public and he had made up his mind that they would not for quite awhile. His children and Annie were safer that way and look how happy they had been to be able to go out in public with her free and unfettered.
Annie leaned back into Michael’s firm chest and reveled in the feeling of his strong, protective arms around her. She could smell his sweet, earthy scent and thought about last night. She felt a warm glow envelop her. After all these months Michael still made her feel so sexy, so confident in her ability to fulfill his every desire. He made her feel like a goddess she thought, smiling to herself. She felt like each time they talked with each other that Michael was letting himself become stronger and happier. She had thought momentarily about telling him about the feeling that someone was watching her and Prince at the mall last week but after last nights conversation she decided that she wouldn’t reveal this to him. She didn’t want him to worry and she thought to herself that she was probably just being overly paranoid. No one knew she was Michael’s wife but a distinct few and for now she was just fine with that.
“Very good Applehead!” Michael said as Blanket ended with a flourish and then bowed to the both of them. Annie clapped her hands in appreciation of Blanket’s performance. “Daddy, do you think so?” Blanket asked as he ran up to Annie and Michael, and tried to put his arms around them both. “Of course little one, I would not say otherwise. You are almost as good as your dad!” Michael said as he separated himself from Annie and began to tickle Blanket. “Stop it daddy, pleeeeeeaseee!” Blanket pleaded as he giggled uncontrollably. “Okay you two, here is Bill. Michael we will see you later sweetie, okay?” Michael got up off the floor and gave his wife a quick kiss and tousled his son’s hair. “Okay you two, be careful my sweet girl. Listen to Bill, don’t get him all ornery!” She whispered in his ear, “Everything okay my sweet boy?” He smiled down at her. “Everything is more than okay Annie. It’s wonderful!” He kissed her again quickly and they were both out the door and in the car as Michael waved goodbye.
Annie and Blanket arrived at their first destination, a small art gallery that was currently featuring an exhibit of photographs of dancers in motion. She thought Blanket would get a kick out of looking at the pictures, and she was proven right. All styles of dance were represented, from ballet to ballroom to hip-hop and modern and everything in between. Blanket seemed to want to look at each of the photos closely, almost as though he was analyzing the movement or step from start to finish. “Look how their legs are moving in this one Annie? And then in this second picture you can see where the leg comes down. I want to try that step Annie!”
The last part of the exhibit was a series of photographs of breakdancers. Blanket seemed especially fascinated by these. The dancers were spinning on their heads and pictured on their backs, their legs in a scissor motion. The gallery was not particularly crowded and while Blanket stood looking at one of the photos one of the guards, a young African American, probably in his late twenties, came by and started a conversation with them. “So little man you seem especially fascinated by this set of photos. Are you an aspiring dancer by any chance?” the guard said talking directly to Blanket. “I like to dance because my daddy is such a good dancer,” Blanket said quite innocently. “He is huh, that’s great!” Annie smiled; if only this young man knew who Blanket’s daddy was he would be oh so surprised! He turned to Annie and said, “Did you know that there is going to be a hip-hop dance demonstration in a park about three blocks from here. The little guy may want to check it out.” “No I didn’t, thank you,” Annie said. Annie had originally planned to take Blanket to an urban dance festival but they had missed the date, but this seemed like a very apropos alternative. “How about it Little Michael, would you like to see that?” Annie questioned Blanket. “That sounds cool mommy!” Blanket answered enthusiastically.
So their next stop was the park. She walked out the door of the gallery with Blanket and looked around nonchalantly. Everything seemed quite innocent and it was such a lovely day, she thought it would be good for them to walk. However she knew she had to communicate with Bill so she called him on her cell phone. They went back and forth for a few minutes but finally Bill relented. “All right Annie. But we will be close by, okay?” “Yes, of course Bill. I would not expect otherwise.” “Come on kiddo, we get to walk to the park!” Annie said to Blanket, taking him by the hand. “Oh boy Annie how exciting!” Blanket said. As they walked they talked.
“Annie how much longer before the baby is born?” Blanket asked. “Well remember Dr. Christina said the baby is going to be born around Christmas sweetie, so that is about another five months or so.” “Will it hurt you when the baby is born?” he asked with a concerned voice. She wanted to be honest with him. Michael always told her that he would always be honest to a fault with them…but if it was something that he thought would hurt them he would word it in a different way. “Well Little Michael it may hurt a little, but I am going to be able to do things that will help me to alleviate the pain, like breathing exercises. Why do you ask sweetie?” “Because I would not want to see you hurting Annie. Just like I don’t like it when daddy is hurting,” he said in an earnest voice. “Your daddy has a lot of inner strength munchkin. He is very courageous. Do you know what that word means sweetie?” She looked down at him and saw him kind of pondering the question. “That means that he is not afraid of anything, right Annie?” “Well kind of sweetie. Even though your daddy has had times in his life when he was in pain or facing troubles, he kept going on even when maybe he was afraid. He was very brave.” “Annie, I want to be like my daddy when I grow up. And not just because he dances but because he is cor..coura..courageous.” She smiled and put her arm around him and gave him a tender little squeeze. “I am sure he would love to hear you say that Blanket.”
They had arrived at their destination. The park had a playground off to one side with swings and other playground equipment. And off to the other side was a mini plaza with a fountain. The area around the fountain was where there demonstration was about to take place. There was already a crowd gathering and the dance groups were stretching and practicing some of their steps before the event started.
Soon the music started and the dancing began. She observed little Michael. It seemed as though as he was trying to absorb each and every movement the dancers performed. She remembered Michael telling her how he would stand offstage and watched as Jackie Wilson and James Brown performed and how he would try to imprint each movement into his brain and then practice the steps at home later on when he was alone. As he developed into his own dancer he was able to incorporate some of what he had observed into his own invented dance steps. It seemed as though this is what his son was doing now.
Two groups had performed and Annie was starting to get a little tired, but she didn’t want to disappoint Blanket, she saw there was a nearby bench and she knew she could watch him from there. Before the next group came on she kneeled down and spoke to him. “Munchkin, listen to me okay?” she said intently. “Okay Annie!” Blanket said giving her his full attention. “I am feeling a little tired, like I need to sit down for a few minutes. I am going to sit right over there on that bench where I can see you. Don’t go anywhere, stand right here and continue watching the dancers, all right Michael,” she said. “Okay Annie. Are you all right mommy?” he said seriously. “I am fine sweetie, thank you for asking. Just need to sit down for a few minutes and drink some water.” She kissed him softly on his cheek and then walked over to the bench and sat down. Blanket watched her intently and then waved once Annie sat down.
The music started again and his attention was drawn back to the dancers. She watched Blanket as he again became mesmerized by the dancers. She could see that he could barely contain himself from moving along with them. His mannerisms were so like his father's. Annie was able to sit through the entire last group comfortably and still keep her eye on Blanket. She was thirsty and went digging through her bag to bring out the water bottle and see if she had a piece of candy to give to little Michael and when she triumphantly found the bottle and the candy she looked up and her heart stopped. Blanket was no longer where he was supposed to be! She panicked. She got up from the bench quickly and started to move towards where the dancers had been performing only moments ago. There was still a small crowd gathered there.
She called out his name, but not Blanket, because she did not want to draw any unnecessary attention to them. So she called out "Michael, Michael where are you munchkin!" Then she heard that unmistakable Jackson giggle—again so much like his father. And then she saw him. He was with one of the dancers who was showing Blanket some of the moves. He was behind Blanket guiding his arms and teaching him how to flip back onto the ground, almost like a handstand. Blanket was enjoying himself thoroughly and of course he already had the step down to near perfection. "Michael," Annie called out, perhaps more stridently than necessary but she had been frightened when she didn't see him and he would have to understand that. "Annie," he shouted out in glee, "Look at me Annie!" and he again performed the movement, nearly flawlessly. "Hey kid you got it perfectly!"
He ran over to Annie and hugged her. "Sweetheart didn't I tell you to stand right in my sight?" "I am sorry Annie; I didn't mean to scare you!" "I know you didn't munchkin!" And she bent down and hugged him a little harder and kissed him on top of his head. "I am sorry ma'am," the young dancer said, "Don't blame the kid, it's my fault. I could see him standing on the sidelines here and I just knew he was itching to dance!"
"This is Antonio mommy. Antonio this is my mommy, Annie. And I am Prince Michael Jackson number two but everyone calls me Blanket!" Blanket was grinning from ear to ear, so innocent of what he had just done. Antonio looked from Blanket to Annie and then back to Blanket and then back to Annie. "Blanket Jackson…Prince Michael number two..." Annie could see the wheels turning in this kid's head. She instinctively reached out and grabbed Blanket, pulling him closer to her and wrapping her arms around him as though that would somehow protect them from unnecessary attention. "Well no wonder you are so talented kid, it's in the genes!" Antonio looked up at her and sensing her apprehension he said quietly, "Don't worry ma'am, your secret is safe with me. I don't think anyone would believe me even if I told them!" He then bent down on his knee and spoke directly to Blanket, "Hey Blanket, you tell your daddy that us folks here in the hood will always love and support him!" "Thanks Antonio!" Blanket said, reaching out and shaking Antonio’s hand. "Yes, thank you Antonio. Hey, how about I take a picture of you and Blanket, to show his father? And write down your address and a phone number. I am sure Blanket's father will want to show his appreciation for the special attention that you paid to him today." "I won't accept any money ma'am, but perhaps an autograph of some sort would be sweet!" She smiled and laughed and took several pictures of them together.
After they parted from Antonio they went and sat on the bench that Annie had just vacated. “I am sorry I scared you Annie. I love you mommy!” Blanket said hugging her. “I love you too sweetie, I was just scared when I didn’t see you!” Annie said hugging him back. “Hey I have an idea, how about before we go home we make one last stop? I am in the mood for some ice cream, how about you munchkin?” “Oh boy Annie, that would be great!” Blanket exclaimed! Annie got her cell phone out and called Bill who was there with the big, black SUV in a matter of minutes. She asked Bill if he knew where there was a good place that they could get ice cream. “I know just the spot. It’s on the way home,” he said.
Annie had a bit of a scare when she had looked up and didn’t see Blanket. But the scary moment had turned into a beautiful Michael incident. She was looking forward to having some chocolate ice cream. Once again her pregnancy cravings were kicking in and the thought of downing two scoops of some Rocky Road in a waffle cone never sounded as appealing as it did right at that moment. The ice cream parlor was filled with lots of customers, late on a hot Saturday afternoon in early August that was to be expected. Little did Annie realize that she was about to experience yet another disconcerting jolt.

Suzie Alvarez had just started her shift at the ice cream shop. It was crowded but that was fine with her. That meant the time would go by quickly. She really didn’t mind anyways. It wasn’t the best of jobs but between her work at the church and here she was paying her bills and getting her life back on track and that was what was most important.
“So what would you like to order sweetie?” Annie asked Blanket as they stood in line. “I would like some chocolate please Annie!” “What kind of cone do you want sweetie, how about a waffle cone?” “Yes please!” Blanket replied. The person in front of them got their order and it was their turn finally. Annie turned from Blanket ready to place their order and found herself face to face with Suzie Alvarez! “Suzie?!” Annie exclaimed. “Annie!” Suzie said in a surprised voice.
Annie’s first instinct was to turn around and walk out as fast as she could. But she thought that would be childish, and she didn’t want to alarm Blanket. Besides what was she exactly running from? Suzie looked somewhat different. Annie remembered her as always being a fashion plate, perfect makeup, perfect hair, expensive clothing. But none of that was in evidence here. She had little or no makeup on and her hair was tied up in a ponytail. She wore a baseball cap with the store’s logo imprinted on it and like all the other employees she wore a striped apron over jeans and a t-shirt. Annie knew that Suzie was here in LA but it was a huge city and what were the chances of her ever running into her, especially here, in an ice cream shop waiting on her and Blanket.
Suzie thought this is a sign, perhaps from God. She had been going over and over in her head about how she wanted to right her wrongs. Last week at the mall she thought she had saw Annie Walker. She had even followed indiscreetly behind hoping to catch a glimpse of her from the front. She was walking with a kid that did seem to look like Michael Jackson’s oldest, but when the woman had turned around Suzie chickened out and ducked into a nearby store. And now here she was, standing right in front of her, but now with Michael Jackson’s youngest. And now that she was seeing Annie from the front, she could see that she was pregnant and she looked absolutely amazing Suzie thought, glowing from head to toe.
As they both stared at each other, in an uneasy silence, Suzie's manager walked by and said briskly, "Everything all right Suzie?" "Yes Mr. Wilkinson, everything is fine. The customer is just deciding which of our wonderful flavors to choose from." He gave her a smile and said "Okay Suzie! I bet you want chocolate," he said to Blanket laughing and winking at him. He walked away and Suzie turned to Annie and said in a quiet, almost desperate voice, “Please Annie, can you place your order, I need this job and I don't want to screw up.” Suzie looked down at Blanket and said "You remember me sweetie, I worked at the toy store in New York. What kind of ice cream would you like today honey?"
Blanket suddenly seemed unusually shy, clinging to Annie's leg. Perhaps he sensed Annie's sudden agitation. Annie snapped back to reality and tried to take control of the situation, "He wants a scoop of chocolate in a waffle cone, right Michael," she said looking down at Blanket, he nodded his head. “And I will have two scoops of Rocky Road in a waffle cone also.” “Okay Annie, coming right up!” Suzie went and prepared both cones, handing them to Annie. Annie handed Blanket his cone, “Here you go munchkin! Enjoy!” “Thank you mommy!” he said, perking right up once he had his ice cream in hand. “Okay Annie that will be $6.50,” Suzie said. Annie handed her the money. Suzie handed Annie back her change. “Annie, please, I need to talk to you. I can't do it here obviously. I know I am probably the last person you want to see. But I really need to talk to you. So I am going to write my cell phone number on the back of your receipt and please consider calling me, please?” Suzie pleaded with Annie in a nervous, quiet whisper.
But Annie did not seem to be moved. She took the change and the receipt and hurriedly stuffed it in her pocket and said to Blanket, “C’mon munchkin let’s go outside and wait for Bill.” Suzie watched Annie and the child leave. She had heard the little one refer to Annie as mommy and she had witnessed how much he cared for her and her for him. A sudden wave of melancholy washed over her. “Miss, can we place our order please?” a rather perturbed voice broke through to her and she snapped back to attention. “Of course, I am sorry, what can I get you?” Suzie said, smiling on the outside but still sad on the inside.
“Annie that was the lady from the toy store right?” Blanket said in between licks as they sat outside at a small table waiting for Bill to come back around and pick them up. “Yes it was sweetie,” Annie said quietly. “Is she your sister Annie?” Blanket asked. “Well kind of Blanket. She’s my step-sister. Her mother married my father.” “Annie why don’t you like her? Is it because she has a different mother from you?” Blanket asked innocently. She recalled Michael telling her once that children had a way of sensing what you felt even if you tried to hide it from them. “It’s not that I don’t like her Blanket. I guess it’s just that we never were close. Not like you and Paris and Prince are,” Annie said trying to hide the fact that yes, Annie didn’t particularly like Suzie. “Paris and Prince have a different mother from me Annie but daddy says we are all a family.” “You are right sweetie you guys are all a family even though you don’t have the same mother. It’s hard for me to explain munchkin,” Annie said pulling him closer and hugging him. “That’s okay Annie, but she can’t be too bad if she works here,” Blanket said giggling as he continued to lick his ice cream cone. And Annie couldn’t help but laugh also.
Bill came and before they knew it they were at home. Blanket ran into the house and practically pounced on his father. “Daddy, daddy,” he said running into his arms. “Hey, Applehead! Did you have a good time with Annie?” Michael looked up as Annie came in close behind Blanket. Even though she gave him a big smile Michael felt immediately that something was bothering her. In the meanwhile Blanket was excitedly recounting the day’s hi-lights. “We saw lots of pictures of dancers, daddy. And then we went to a park and watched dancers. I met Antonio. And I have a surprise for you daddy but I have to practice some more first before I show you. And then we had ice cream!” Michael hugged his son close to him. He laughed as he kissed his son’s cheek, getting a taste of the chocolate ice cream that he had just devoured. “Oh boy you taste good, and it sounds like you had a very good day sweetheart, can’t wait to hear all about it.” “Munchkin why don’t you go upstairs and wash your hands and face sweetie and then at dinner you can tell your father and your brother and sister all about your adventures today, okay little Michael?” Annie said. “Okay mommy!” And away he went, running upstairs as fast as his two legs could carry him.
“Come here my sweet girl,” Michael said. And Annie went to him and let herself be pulled into a warm embrace. Michael kissed her on her forehead and on her nose and then on her lips. “You look tired my sweet Annie, everything okay? Perhaps you should tell me who this Antonio is?” Michael said—maybe he could discern what was wrong if they talked for a bit.
They walked hand in hand into the library, and Michael closed the door firmly behind them. He pulled her towards an overstuffed chair meant to hold two quite comfortably and they both collapsed into it. She buried her face into his chest and inhaled his sweet earthy scent. With his strong arms firmly locked around her she felt safe and protected from the outside world. The emotions of the day seemed to be catching up with her, between momentarily losing sight of Blanket and then seeing Suzie Alvarez, she felt as though she suddenly may burst into tears.
“Hey what’s up my sweet, beautiful girl? You’re trembling all over. Why don’t you tell me what happened today,” Michael said softly, kissing the top of her head tenderly. She felt she needed to reveal to him what had happened to Blanket…she felt he needed to know this. With her face still pressed into his chest she said softly, “I messed up today Michael. I almost lost Blanket!” Then all at once she told him what happened today. “I am so sorry Michael! I was so scared when he wasn’t there when I looked up! What if he had wandered away with some stranger?”
Michael listened quietly as she spilled her story out. He moved her head away from his body. Tears were streaming down her face. He caressed her face lovingly, tenderly brushing her hair out of her eyes and wiping the tears from her face. “Annie, stop it. He’s fine. Nothing happened to him. Its okay my sweet girl. Did you tell him that he scared you?” “Yes Michael I did. And he apologized to me,” she said now smiling through the tears. “Good. He needs to understand that what he did was wrong but that you are not angry with him. Just that you need to know where he is at all times when you are out together.”
“Annie last night after we made love and you fell asleep I sat up for a bit and thought about what we talked about. The jealous and bitter feelings are all gone Annie. I am so happy that they were able to taste that kind of freedom. And they have you to thank for it my sweet girl. They love you so much and so do I. What happened today probably happens to other parents all of the time. What is most important is that he is safe and he understood that he upset you and he now knows better. This Antonio was a good kid?” Michael said softly. “Oh yes Michael, he was a very good kid. I have some pictures of him with Blanket. I want little Michael to tell the story to you at dinner. He had such an adventure I would prefer that he recounted the rest to you,” Annie said finally smiling all the way. “That’s what I want to see, that beautiful smile!” Michael said hugging her tightly. Annie closed her eyes and reveled in the feeling of his arms around her once again. Michael could feel her relax, but for some reason he couldn’t help but think that there was something else wrong. It was at that moment that Annie decided not to tell him about her Suzie sighting, at least not yet. However, later on at the dinner table, she would have no choice but to tell him.

Blanket felt so very special that night at dinner. After all he was still the youngest in the family and having everyone pay rapt attention as he described in detail his most wonderful afternoon with Annie was very special. "The pictures were of all kinds of dancing but my favorites were the breakdancers. They had pictures of kids spinning on their heads and their backs. It was cool!"
"And then Annie took me to a park and there were all kinds of people dancing there and I got to meet Antonio. And I scared Annie because she didn't know where I was at daddy. But I told mommy that I was sorry. I am sorry daddy!" Michael couldn't help but chuckle, "That's okay Applehead. But next time you’re out with Annie you ask her first before you go with anyone. That goes for all of you guys, understood?" "Yes daddy," all three said in unison. Michael smiled over at Annie and winked at her and she smiled back.
"But I still have to tell you the best part of the day daddy. Antonio taught me some dance moves and I practiced them and I want to show all of you, especially you daddy!" “Okay Applehead get up and show all of us!” Blanket got up and made his way to a space away from the table and bowed in front of them all and then started to dance. Annie was impressed. He had practiced and he had added and innovated some of the movement on his own. In what one may have called an homage to his father he combined some of his father’s movements with some of the steps that had he learned today. He impressively spun on one hand jumped up and ended with a one arm cartwheel.
Annie watched Michael’s reaction. He seemed truly mesmerized by his youngest son. When Blanket ended he bowed to all of them as they applauded loudly. Prince whistled and Paris squealed in delight and Annie yelled out, “Way to go little Michael!” But of course the most important reaction to Blanket was his daddy’s. He ran over to his father and said, “What did you think daddy?” “You were good Applehead, really, really good sweetheart!” Michael’s voice was thick with emotion and he pulled Blanket to him giving him a big hug. “I love you daddy, thank you!” Blanket said.
“We have pictures of Antonio and Blanket, and also some of the other dancers. They were quite good Michael,” Annie said. They all gathered around Annie and looked at the pictures on her camera. “Daddy, Antonio told me to tell you that everyone in the ‘hood loves you!” Blanket exclaimed. Michael grinned from ear to ear. “He said that?” Michael queried. “Yes he sure did Michael. I told him we would send him something special. He gave me his address and phone number. What do you think Mr. Jackson? Can we do something special for him?” Annie said. “Of course we can,” Michael said filled with wonderment. “Blanket and I will pick out something special and I will autograph it. And, I can keep his number, when I eventually hold auditions I will have Frank or Kenny phone him.” “Wow daddy, thank you!” Blanket said. “Thank you Michael!” Annie whispered to him. He bent down and gave Annie a quick kiss on her cheek and then they all sat back down.
Just then George came out with a tray of bowls and said, “Okay, who’s ready for dessert? We got ice cream tonight!” When George placed a bowl of chocolate ice cream in front of Blanket he shouted out “Oh boy, more ice cream! I almost forgot, then Annie took me to get ice cream and it was good and we saw that lady from the toy store there!” All of sudden everyone got kind of quiet. Michael looked over at Annie. She had a stricken look on her face. And then Michael looked over at Blanket. “What lady was that buddy?” “You know daddy, Annie’s step sister.” Out of the mouths of babes Michael thought to himself. Paris, the ever sensitive one, could sense that Annie was upset by little Blanket’s outburst, she looked over at Prince. Prince nodded his head and said, “Hey Blanket, why don’t we take our ice cream upstairs and you can show me and Paris some more of those moves? Is that okay Annie and daddy?” Annie looked over at Michael and he said, “That’s a good idea you guys. Go on ahead upstairs and in a little bit maybe we can watch a movie together.”
The children got up carefully carrying their ice cream, giggling and chitter-chattering away as they left the room. Once they were gone Michael got up slowly and sat in the chair just vacated by Paris next to Annie, and scooted it closer to her. She sat staring straight ahead, saying nothing. “So were you planning on telling me that you saw Suzie today?” Michael said quietly. He reached over and tenderly brushed her curly hair off of her face, caressing her cheek as he did. She turned to look at him. “It’s not that I was keeping it a secret Michael. I just needed to think about it. Sort out how I felt about it in my head before I talked to you about it,” she said defensively.
Michael scooted even closer, placing his arm loosely around the back of her chair. His face was inches from hers and he said quietly, “Do you want to talk about it now, my sweet girl?” She turned her face only to find herself staring into his eyes. So beautiful, so soulful, so loving—she knew deep inside the real reason she did not want to tell him about Suzie and was still wrestling with herself on whether or not she should just discuss it with Michael. But when he looked at her with so much love she found herself not able to resist telling him anything.
“Was she a customer at the shop?” Michael asked her quietly. “No. That is the most interesting part I guess. She was working at the shop. She waited on us,” Annie said turning to look at him. “Did she say anything to you—something to upset you or hurt you Annie?” Michael asked in a concerned voice. “No. As a matter of fact she wants to talk to me. Apparently she is desperate to talk to me. She wrote her cell phone number on the back of our receipt.” Annie turned away from him. His stare was so penetrating. It was as though he could read her mind.
“Michael seeing her today only served to bring back a flood of bad memories of the last night I ever saw or talked to her. That was the night we split up and I don’t care to revisit memories of that night.” Michael observed her, her head was down now and she nervously rubbed her hands together. He recognized the habit and knew she was torn about the incident. “Annie, you know deep down that Suzie had nothing to do with our temporary break-up, right girl? And also my sweet girl you yourself have encouraged me to reconnect with my own family. Perhaps she is trying to reach out to you, perhaps she has changed. For her to be working there is probably a clue that her life has changed in some drastic way,” Michael said this and then reached for her again, but Annie nervously moved her chair away and Michael let his hand fall back into his lap.
“Michael this is very different. They are your flesh and blood. Suzie is not,” Annie said yet again in a very defensive voice. “But Annie, Gloria is not your flesh and blood and you forgave her,” Michael said softly, only trying to soothe her ruffled feathers. He could tell she was getting agitated by this line of questioning but he took a chance and kept at her. She got up from her chair then, rather abruptly. The chair skidded out from under her as she got up. She turned to look at him her look and demeanor very serious, “Again, it’s different. I know that my father loved Gloria and I now know with great certainty that Gloria loved him. As far as I know Suzie had no love for my father or me and that gives me the right to feel how I feel about her Michael.”
And then she continued, her voice slightly quivering, “This is why I didn’t want to tell you Michael that I saw Suzie today. Because I knew you were going to ask me to forgive her. Well I am not like you Michael. I don’t trust her and I don’t care how her life has changed. Michael she used you too. She is…she’s like the enemy as far as I am concerned,” Annie turned away from her, her back now to him.
Michael reached for her hand and grabbed it, pulling her back down towards him, so now she sat on his lap. He buried his face into the crook of her neck. She squirmed on his lap but he held her steady. He inhaled her scent and then started to kiss her lightly on her chin. He pulled her down so that he could better kiss her face. He placed tiny light kisses on her chin up to her ear and whispered in her ear tickling her senses, “Please listen to me Annie, please?” Annie closed her eyes and began to relax in his arms. She began to think of how this reminded her of their time in New York. He was always spinning that beautiful web around her—putting her under his spell.
Annie quickly opened her eyes again. She slid out of his arms and sat back down on the chair next to his. “What do you want to say to me Michael,” Annie said quietly straightening her shirt and trying to get herself composed. Michael was slightly disappointed that she was not giving into his attempts to distract her from her anger. But when he looked into her eyes he knew that this was important to her and she wanted his full attention. It was her decision to make and he should not try to force her to do anything she didn’t feel comfortable doing. “It is true she used me. But in the long run the harm was minimal. Sometimes you have to pick your battles. Annie, of course this decision is yours to make and I will support you in whatever that is. I know how personal this is to you. I only ask you to consider Gloria’s feelings in this. If you do not wish to communicate with Suzie Alvarez you should consider giving the number to Gloria so that she can contact her daughter on her own. You have told me that she has mentioned her desire to try to reconnect with her in your recent correspondence with Gloria. Perhaps this is some sort of spiritual sign for this to happen.”
He looked over at her and she was paying attention to his words very intently. He continued. “Think about how I would feel if I had a falling out with Paris, once she is older. And she turns away from me. And I no longer know where she is at. I would give anything for someone to help me locate her.” Annie then rose up again out of her chair and said to Michael, “Paris would never treat you the way Suzie is treating her mother. Only because you raised your daughter in a kind and loving and supportive manner, and as much as I love Gloria, she did not do the same for Suzie unfortunately.” Annie started to walk away from Michael. Michael got up from his chair and watched her as she neared the entrance to the foyer, and then he called her name out.
She turned around and looked at him standing there. Her husband always had such a quiet beauty and dignity that surround him. She was acting like a spoiled child. He did nothing wrong and you are not angry with him. “Yes, Michael?” she said. “I love you girl!” Annie found herself walking quickly back to him till she was standing in front of him. They both stared into each other’s eyes for what seemed like forever and then Annie looped her arms around his neck and buried her face into his chest. “I love you too Michael. This is not a fight between us,” she said softly. Michael slipped his arms lovingly around her, “I know girl—I know it’s not. I love you Annie and I am here if you need me,” he replied back, gently kissing the top of her head and squeezing her tightly in his arms.
“Thank you Michael for letting me sort this out on my own, and I promise I will take Gloria’s feelings into consideration. I don’t want to hurt her or add to her pain.” Annie separated from him, kissing him lightly and said, “I am going upstairs to draw and to meditate. But I want to be in on that movie watching so make sure you guys come and get me my sweet, sweet prince.” “Okay my sweet beautiful girl, I will!” Michael watched her as she walked out of the room and he smiled.

Suzie placed her latest paycheck into her purse and headed out the door of the ice cream shop. Her manager had spoken to her about her work saying that she was doing a good job and asked her if she wanted to pick up another shift. She readily agreed. She could use the money. She was trying to think of ways to better herself and was thinking about maybe taking a class at one of the community colleges. She had a bittersweet smile on her face as she thought to herself about what her mother would think if she could see her now. It was nine o’clock and she was beat. It had been quite busy after Annie and Blanket left and Suzie really didn’t even have two minutes to think about what had transpired between her and Annie. Suzie headed towards her bus stop. She desperately wanted to talk to someone about all of this, but she had no friends, except the Rev. She had been thinking for awhile about telling him everything. He was such a good listener and she knew he wouldn’t judge her. But a part of her was still holding back because she was so ashamed of her past behavior. And she decided that she would give Annie a few days. Suzie planned out in her mind what she could say. She wanted to tell her and Michael how sorry she was and ask then nonchalantly ask her if she talked to her mother recently. Suzie felt better already holding onto the hope that Annie would call her and then perhaps everything would be all right.
She boarded the bus and sat down. She reached into her bag and discreetly reached for her headphones. She then reached into her bag and turned on the player. She turned it up slightly and relaxed as she heard Michael Jackson sing, “Keep the faith, baby, Yea,
because it's just a matter of time, before your confidence will win out, believe in yourself
no matter what it's gon' take, you can be a winner but you got to keep the faith.”

After they all watched the movie together, Michael and Annie read to the kids and then tucked them in. They said goodnight to Blanket first. Michael and Annie both kissed him and wished him a good night and he sleepily said good night back. But then as they were getting up and walking towards the door, Blanket said timidly, “Daddy can I talk to Annie by myself?” “Sure Applehead. Annie I will go in and see Paris next. Good night Blanket!” “Good night daddy!” Blanket said.
Annie came back around and sat on the bed. “What’s up little Michael, do you feel all right? Not too much ice cream today?” she said lightly tickling him. He giggled sleepily “I am all right mommy. You’re not mad at me mommy for telling everybody about seeing your step-sister?” Blanket’s tone of voice had turned very serious. Annie moved up onto the bed and put her arm around Blanket. “No munchkin I am not angry with you sweetie. Please don’t worry about that little one.” Annie gave him a great big hug. “I would not expect you to keep anything from your father. I love you very much Blanket.”
“I love you mommy and I had so much fun today. Thank you Annie!” Annie found it so endearing the way he bounced back and forth between Annie and mommy. “You’re welcome buddy. Now let’s get you tucked back in.” Annie tucked Blanket back in and kissed him on his forehead, once from her and once from Michael and then wished him a good night. By the time she turned out the light and closed the door he was fast asleep.
Annie caught up to Michael in Paris’ room. They said their goodnights to Paris and then to Prince and then walked back, as usual, hand in hand, to their room and started to get ready for bed. “Everything okay with my little Blanket?” Michael asked as he got undressed. “Yes, everything is all right. He wanted to make sure I was not upset with him about revealing to you guys that we saw Suzie. I guess I kind of scared them with the look on my face,” Annie said quietly as she took off her clothing and got ready to put her pajamas on.
She came over and sat on the bed, Michael was already sitting up in bed in a t-shirt and a pair of lounge pants. Michael reached over and pulled her closer and she readily acquiesced. It always felt good to be encircled by his loving arms. “Any new thoughts on the matter that you would like to share my sweet girl? If not, I understand and I am not pushing you or rushing you into any kind of decision,” he said sleepily.
“I know that Michael,” she said looking up into his eyes she reached up and tenderly caressed his cheek. She then buried her face again against his chest. “Michael,” she said softly, “Yes Annie,” Michael said back. “I decided that I can’t talk to Suzie Alvarez. I guess that makes me a not so nice person. But I will speak to Gloria. I had planned to call her this week anyways so I will discuss it with her then,” Annie said.
“That doesn’t make you a bad person Annie. Sometimes it can be extremely hard to forgive someone that you feel has hurt or harmed you. I would never judge you Annie, please don’t ever think I would. We are both only human,” Michael said this and then kissed her softly upon her head and began to lightly caress her arms. He slid down so that he was now face to face with her. “I love you Michael!” “I love you more Annie!” And they both leaned in and kissed each other passionately.

Suzie started her week optimistic and happy, anxiously awaiting for Annie Walker to call her. She rehearsed in her head over and over again what she would say to Annie. To try to distract her from her thoughts she decided to tackle one of the more onerous duties at the church, a thorough cleaning of their soup kitchen. The Rev had temporarily shut down the soup kitchen while he replenished the pantry so it was a good time for the cleaning also. Monday morning Reverend Lewis found Suzie in the kitchen scrubbing the stoves down thoroughly. She put the music up loud, Michael Jackson of course, and went to work. He watched her with a smile on his face as she bopped around singing off key, using a sponge as a pretend microphone. He joined in singing “If you should ever find someone new, I know he’d better be good to you, ‘Cos if he doesn’t I’ll be there…” Suzie looked up suddenly and blushed profusely. “Reverend Lewis I didn’t know you were there!” He laughed, “Don’t stop on my account. You have a lovely voice Suzie. Could use some more help organizing that choir you know?” Now it was her turn to laugh, “I feel like I have my hands in everything around here. The others are going to start calling me the teacher’s pet!”
“I don’t think so. The others love you just as much as I do Suzie,” the Rev said. He came over and motioned her to sit down. “Take a break for a minute child.” “No thanks Rev I want to get these stoves done before I have to leave for my shift at the ice cream parlor.” He smiled at her, “Okay kiddo! Don’t work too hard, you hear me?” She nodded her head and continued on with her scrubbing. The Rev watched her for another minute and then walked back to his office.
Tuesday came and went and still there was no call from Annie Walker. By Wednesday, Suzie had the stoves done, the refrigerators cleaned, and now she was working on cleaning the pantry shelves to make way for the new food supply. The work kept her busy and kept her mind off of the fact that Annie Walker still had not called by the end of Wednesday. With each passing day Suzie became more distraught. She thought for sure Annie would call. She did it again. She placed so much importance upon that call from Annie and now that it didn’t come she felt like she was spinning down out of control. The Rev had noticed how Suzie had started the week out like a tornado but by the end of the week she seemed dispirited. He figured something was bothering her and was not surprised when on Thursday afternoon Suzie came and knocked on his office door.
On Thursday morning Suzie scrubbed the soup kitchen’s floors down and by end of day she had the kitchen spotless and ready to resume service for Saturday morning. The Rev had received a healthy donation from an old friend and was planning on doing the food shopping on Friday just in time for the reopening. Suzie knocked on his office door just as the Rev finished up a phone call. “May I come in Reverend Lewis?” Annie asked in a demure voice. “Of course Suzie come on in. Have a seat.”
Suzie sat down. “You did an excellent job of cleaning the kitchen Suzie. I can’t tell you how much I have appreciated your hard work and dedication to the church. I just hope that the work has helped you as much as it has helped our fledgling community,” Reverend Lewis said to her. “It has Rev, more than I think you will ever know. That’s kind of what I wanted to talk to you about. I...I need some guidance Reverend and I am hoping that you may be able to help me,” Suzie said nervously. The Reverend came out from behind the desk and sat in a chair opposite Suzie. “You can tell me anything you want to Suzie and I promise it won’t go any further than this office,” he took her hands and squeezed them gently.
Suzie proceeded to tell her story to the Reverend. She told him about her mother marrying several times and how she had ended up marrying Billy Walker. She told him about how after Mr. Walker died her mother worked at the toy store and that is how she met Annie Walker. And then she told him about Annie Walker and Michael Jackson’s relationship and how she had used Michael to try to get Jerry Stone to take her to California. The most difficult part to relay to the Reverend was her behavior when she came to California. But he did not flinch when she told him what she had done. She then ended by telling the Rev how she saw Annie at the ice cream parlor and how she had given her phone number to Annie in hopes that she could somehow make amends to both her and Michael and then perhaps even be able to contact her mother again through Annie.
“I know what you are going to say Reverend Lewis. I put too much hope in this miracle phone call from Annie Walker. I built this all up in my head hoping that somehow I could change my life and she probably threw my phone number in the trash,” Suzie said as she started to cry. The Reverend reached over and grabbed a box of tissues and placed them next to Suzie. “You have to keep the faith Suzie. Perhaps she needs to think about it for a bit longer. I may have a solution for you, but in the meantime here’s what I want you to do, I want you to pray on it. Put your trust in God and he will give you enlightenment. My child you have come a long way since I first met you. I know that you have straightened your life out and no matter what happens you need to hold your head high and continue on.” It felt good to have unburdened herself to the Reverend. “All right Rev I will do that. Thank you!” The Reverend gave her a loving embrace and Suzie got up and left, clutching a tissue in her hand.
The Reverend went and sat back behind his desk. He got his key out and opened one of his desk drawers and took out a folder and placed it on his desk. He opened it up and started to look through the contents. Inside was a picture of Annie and Michael Jackson on the day of their wedding. They had sent a very kind letter of thanks including a picture plus a rather large donation check as promised. He had decided that he would call Michael and speak to him personally about the situation. He would see if he could discern whether or not Annie and Michael may be willing to meet with Suzie.
Even as an ordained minister he sometimes had doubts about the power of God. But then something like this happened and he felt as though his faith was renewed. He felt strongly that God had guided Suzie Alvarez to his church and why also Annie and Michael had found him too. If Annie was unwilling to talk to Suzie perhaps he could at least see if he could help Suzie reunite her with her mother. He picked up the phone and placed a call to Michael Jackson.

Michael was in the library alone doing some writing when he felt his cell phone vibrating in his pocket. Because he was so involved in his thoughts he didn’t even look at who the call was from. He took the phone from his pocket and continued to write as he said, “Hello,” rather absent mindedly. “Hello, is this Michael Jackson?” Immediately Michael’s senses were on alert, he should have been more cognizant of the number before he answered. He rested his pen on the desk. “May I ask who this is?” he said rather defensively. “Michael this is Reverend Lewis Smith, how are you?” Michael relaxed and smiled, “Reverend Lewis, I am fine how about yourself. Did you get our thank you note?” “I did Michael and you and Annie are so very generous. The money will be put to good use I can assure you.”
“I don’t want to impose on you Michael but I have a situation that I believe you and your lovely wife can help me with. Do you have a few minutes for me to tell you a story about one of my congregation?” the Reverend said. “Of course I do Reverend. If you need more funding both Annie and I would be more than happy to contribute more. We both thought your little church and help center were great,” Michael said, ever polite and kind. “You are too generous Michael, but this time I need help of a different kind,” the Reverend said. Reverend Lewis went on to relate to Michael how he had met Suzie Alvarez. “Suzie has kept her personal life pretty close to the vest but I sensed from the day that I met her that she was troubled and needed guidance. That is the way it is with a lot of my congregants and I respect their privacy and I am there for them when and how they decide to open up to me. She finally chose to come and speak to me yesterday afternoon, and needless to say it was quite a surprise to find out that she is connected to you and Annie,” the Reverend said. “I guess I am in awe of God sometimes and how he brings people together Reverend,” Michael said.
“Yes I agree Michael. Suzie feels the need to mend her fences so to speak. She seeks forgiveness from both you and Annie for how she treated you both. I feel it could be a big breakthrough for her to be able to talk to you both and plus she also feels strongly that Annie could assist her in contacting her mother and reuniting with her,” the Reverend said.
“Forgiveness is a tricky thing. I know that you probably are quite familiar with my past—it seems as though the whole world is,” Michael said, his voice holding a slight bittersweet tinge. “One of the things I have learned is that you can’t always move forward unless you allow yourself to both forgive those who wronged you and forgive yourself also. After all I think you are hardest on yourself,” Michael said thoughtfully.
“I will be honest with you though Rev, Annie was a bit shaken up by seeing Suzie and still garners some resentment towards her. I got her to agree to call Gloria and give her Suzie’s number and let mother and daughter work it out privately. Annie is not too keen on a face to face,” Michael said.
“Michael I understand how she would feel that way, but I just want to emphasize that Suzie has made a turn around in her life and I feel strongly that in order for her to move on as you said, a face to face with the both of you would go a long way. You know she has discovered your music big time Michael. Of course I am an old fan of you and your brothers and I lent her some of my music. She is inspired by your message man.” The Reverend chuckled as he continued, “I don’t know how many times I’ve caught her humming “Man in the Mirror.”
“I want you to know that I have not revealed to Suzie that I know you or Annie. I have honored my promise to keep our connection private and would never reveal it to her unless you gave me permission to do so. Do you think you can talk to Annie again Michael, please?” the Reverend said emphatically. Michael being the person he was could not say no to this man. “I don’t know what to say Rev except that I am always gratified to know that someone out there still loves my music, considering I have not exactly been around for awhile. Okay, of course I will talk to Annie, Reverend. I will try my best. Annie has a good heart; perhaps if she knows that you are vouching for Suzie’s change she will be moved. Let me speak to her and I will get back to you as soon as possible, I promise.”
“Very well Michael, thank you so much. And Michael, I just want you to know man that I have always admired your strength of character and your courage in the face of adversity. God loves you Michael as well as a whole lot of people out here that always have and will continue to do so.” Michael was deeply touched by the good Reverend’s words. “God bless you Reverend Lewis and thanks. That means a lot to me.” He ended the phone call and slipped his cell phone back into his pocket. He then headed upstairs to talk to his wife. He liked the feeling that God had somehow orchestrated this whole event. Michael truly believed in the power of love and God and now all he had to do was convince his wife of that. But he knew she would hear him out and in the end she would do the right thing because his Annie was both beautiful on the outside and the inside.
He knew he would find her in her studio. As he approached the door he heard music playing. Annie enjoyed listening to music while she worked on her art. He observed her slightly hunched over at her drawing table in deep concentration but singing along to the song on the CD. His wife was not singing one of his hits like some would automatically think—she was singing an oldie, but a goodie, “My Blue Heaven”—this version in particular was one of Annie’s favorites, sung by Frank Sinatra. “Molly and me, and the baby makes three…,” His wife had professed to him on many occasions that she couldn’t carry a tune worth her life but to Michael her voice was like an angel’s. He stood in the doorway and listened to her for a minute and then joined in with her on the last part, “…we're happy in my, in my Blue Heaven.”
She spun around and her face turned a deep shade of red. “Hey, are you spying on me Michael Jackson?” she said laughing. “No Annie my love, I am merely listening to the voice of my favorite angel!” He came towards her and embraced her from behind, nuzzling the back of her neck with a sweet kiss. “Perhaps we should make up our own version of the song,” he said as he let his hands slip down and caress her pregnant belly tenderly, “Baby makes six!” She laughed and that was even more music to his ears.
“I’ve come to visit my wife,” he said. He turned the player off and then he took her by her hand and Annie let herself be guided to the couch. They sat down together, Michael placing his arm around her. “Speaking of babies,” he said, “are you ready for your visit to Dr. Christina’s next week? And have we made a decision about whether or not we want to know the sex of the baby my sweet girl?” Michael gave his wife a loving squeeze. He had decided he would distract her with other thoughts before they discussed the Suzie and Gloria situation and he had really intended to discuss this very matter with her anyways when they had some time alone.
“I am more than ready Michael my sweet,” she said lovingly snuggling under his arm, resting her head on his shoulder. “I think you know how I feel about the other matter. I want it to be a surprise. Is that all right with you?” she said shyly. “Of course it’s all right girl. I want this to be special for you. It’s your first child Annie. And you know me, I love a surprise. And besides that, I will love this child no matter what, boy or girl.” He tipped her face up to his and kissed her lightly on the forehead, the nose, and then on her lips. She closed her eyes and reveled in the soft feel of his lips on her face.
They settled back into their original positions and sat quietly in each other’s arms for a few minutes. “Now why do I know that this was not the only reason you came up here my dear husband,” Annie said quietly. “You know me too well my sweet girl. Well…I just spoke to a mutual friend of ours, Reverend Lewis,” Michael said. “The Reverend? What a pleasant surprise. Did he get our thank you letter?” Annie said. “Yes he did Annie and he said thank you and he was very grateful. He is a good person Annie and he is doing good work there, helping lost souls. Don’t you think Annie?” Michael said softly. Annie could detect something in Michael’s voice and she was becoming intrigued. “Yes I do Michael. I found our visit to his help center and church very enlightening.”
“Annie the Reverend has asked us to help him with one of his congregation,” Michael continued. “All right Michael, go on, I am listening,” Annie said, slightly separating herself from his arms so that she could look at him as he talked. “The Reverend had a young woman join his congregation recently that is trying to turn over a new leaf. She lost her way for awhile. She was...um...kind of consorting with bad men let’s just say,” Michael said rather demurely. Annie was slightly amused. Michael had such trouble talking about the dirtier side of life sometimes. “After hearing the Reverend preach one Sunday she made a decision to change her life and now she’s been doing some work at the help center and she has found a new job. She feels strongly about righting some wrongs in her life. Making amends to acquaintances and family, especially her mother, whom she has been estranged from. And that’s where we come in Annie,” Michael said to her, taking her hands in his.
“How would we be able to help Michael? Does the Reverend wish to stage some type of intervention?” Annie looked into Michael’s eyes and suddenly she felt a tinge of recognition. “Tell me Michael, do we know mother or daughter?” “Yes, we do girl. We know both mother and daughter,” Michael said quietly. “It’s Gloria and Suzie isn’t it? But how could that be Michael?” Annie asked quietly. “I don’t know girl, I guess God works in mysterious ways sometimes. It’s like we are all interconnected. To me it’s very spiritual. And I know how you feel about Suzie, you have expressed this to me already, but I can’t help but believe that we have to play a part in this Annie because it’s bigger than us now. Do you understand Annie?”
Michael was still holding onto Annie’s hands and he squeezed them lightly. Annie closed her eyes and bowed her head for a minute and then looked up and said to Michael, “I do understand Michael and you are right. It is bigger than us. I have not spoken to Gloria yet but now I know what I need to say to her. I need to invite her to California so that she can reunite with her daughter.” Michael smiled and pulled his wife into his arms, “I knew you would feel that way Annie,” And he hugged her tightly, kissing the top of her head tenderly.

Suzie Alvarez sat in the car next to the Reverend Lewis on their way to Michael and Annie Jackson’s residence. She was nervous to say the least, even though the Rev had assured her that nothing bad was going to happen. She couldn’t believe it when the Rev had showed her the wedding picture of Annie and Michael and then revealed that he had performed the ceremony. She was starting to believe that perhaps God was looking out for her and that everything was going to turn out all right.
She had rehearsed over and over in her head what she wanted to say to Annie and Michael. She first would apologize for her behavior that night of her birthday party. Then she wanted to also apologize to Annie for her behavior in general towards her. She then would ask Annie for help in contacting her mother. She was ashamed of her past behavior and she was concerned that her mother would reject her. Perhaps if Annie would act as an intermediary it would take some of the pressure off.
“Here we are,” the Rev said. Believe it or not Suzie was familiar with the neighborhood. She had worked with a producer that lived in one of these mansions. The producer was married and while his wife was away in Europe he and Suzie had a short tryst. In exchange for sex he had cast her in a low budget pornographic film that he had funded. She shuddered in disgust as she thought about it. “Suzie, everything okay?” the Reverend asked looking over at the young woman. “Yes Rev, everything is fine. Just a little nervous,” Suzie said in a slightly trembling voice. “Stay strong!” he said to her. They got the go ahead to proceed through the gate and up the drive to the estate. As the mansion came into their view Suzie could not help but be amazed at the grand stateliness of it.
Both Annie and Michael awaited their arrival and opened the door as they walked up. The Reverend warmly shook Michael’s hand and then kissed Annie lightly on her cheek. “You are both looking good, married life is treating you well?” Annie and Michael smiled at each other. “Yes, I would definitely say that,” Michael said laughing. The Rev gently pushed Suzie forward and she said “Thank you for allowing me to come here. I know this is quite hard for you Annie and I do appreciate it that you are willing to listen to me.”
“We thought we could talk in the library, follow me this way,” Annie said taking the lead. They settled in the library and the Reverend started things off by speaking of how Suzie had become such an important person in his little congregation. “Right now Suzie is organizing a clothing drive where we aim to collect gently used business appropriate clothing for men and women so that members of the congregation and local residents can pick items out that they may need in order to be dressed properly for job interviews. Why she even scrubbed down the entire kitchen herself in order to prepare for the re-opening of our soup kitchen.” Annie could not help but notice that Suzie was blushing, and she seemed genuinely uncomfortable in the way the Reverend was singing her praises. The Suzie that Annie knew in the past would have not have been acting this way if someone was complimenting her. Suzie did seem different. And Annie was about to get even more evidence of her change.
Just then there was a light knock at the door and then it opened slightly. “I am sorry to disturb you but Annie’s package has arrived,” Paris said quite innocently. “That’s all right Paris honey. Thanks for the heads up. Suzie and Reverend Lewis do you remember our Paris?” “Hello sweetie,” Suzie said and then the Reverend said, “Of course I remember her. How are you Paris?” “I am fine thank you,” Paris said politely. “Now if you will excuse me for just a minute I will be right back,” Annie said. Annie got up and departed the room with Paris.
“I am afraid that Annie probably doesn’t want me here today,” Suzie said nervously. “Don’t say that Suzie,” Michael said. “Just be honest with her and I am sure you will work it out.” “In the meanwhile I can apologize to you Michael. I...I am so sorry for what I did to you. I was a spoiled brat and I used you to get Jerry Stone to take me to California and that never happened. Instead he used me. I am not looking for your pity but just to let you know, I now know what its like to be used by individuals for their own gain and nothing more. I had to hit rock bottom before I realized that but now I want to make it up by helping others.” Michael looked at Suzie. He could certainly sympathize with being used by others for their own selfish gain. What a contrast now from the cold and calculating woman that had forced herself on him at her birthday party so many months ago. Now she was nervously agitated, pleading for his forgiveness. Michael’s keen sense of empathy came out and he could not help but be moved by her obvious change of heart. Suzie started to cry and Michael reached into his pocket and pulled out a handkerchief which he handed to Suzie. She looked up and took it and then she said shyly, her voice ragged with emotion, “Michael, can I give you a hug?” “All right Suzie,” Michael said and opened his arms to her. He was holding her patting her back warmly and caressing the back of her head just as Annie walked back into the room.
Annie’s first reaction was a natural inclination to pull Suzie away from Michael. But then she saw Michael looking up at her. He smiled at her and the look he gave her calmed her down almost immediately, and then she was ashamed by her reaction. After all the Reverend was sitting right there. Suzie separated herself from Michael and was truly embarrassed. She looked over at Annie and said in a sobbing voice, “I am sorry Annie,” as she used Michael’s handkerchief to wipe her tears away. Michael moved over and gestured for Annie to come sit next to Suzie and then he looked up at the Reverend and said “Why don’t we leave these two alone for a minute or two Rev.” “Good idea Michael.” He leaned over and whispered in Annie’s ear, “I love you girl. Remember, everyone deserves one more chance.” He then lightly brushed a kiss on her cheek and got up and left the room with the Reverend.
“Annie I am so sorry for everything. You have to believe me. I have gone through a lot of soul searching while I have been here in California and I am trying to turn my life around. I used to think that the only way that I could survive was to have a man around—preferably a rich one. I thought that was what I needed to boost my self esteem. I never really had a truly good male role model in my life—my father ran out on my mother when I was quite young. And then my mother, wedding one rich older man after another, I guess I never really had a decent father figure. Your father was a good man Annie. Now that I look back on it I could see the difference he made in my mother’s life. I didn’t understand what she saw in him because he was so different from the other men that she had previously handpicked. I know this may be too little too late, but if you could see it in your heart to forgive me perhaps we can start over again and be real sisters?” Suzie said still crying.
“Suzie I was just as confused when my father chose to have a relationship with your mother. And I too resented their relationship. I regret that I didn’t support them more while my dad was still alive. What happened to cause Michael and I to temporarily separate had nothing to do with your behavior and now that is in the past anyways. Our love is stronger than ever.”
Annie watched Suzie, she was nervously twisting Michael’s handkerchief around her fingers as she listened to her speak. Annie nonchalantly reached out and took Suzie’s hands in hers and said, “Suzie, one thing I have learned is that it’s important to have family around, whether or not that family meets the traditional definition. I don’t think you really need my forgiveness. But I do very much like the idea of starting over again. The Reverend has placed a great deal of trust in you and Michael has forgiven you, who am I to not give our relationship another shot.” “Oh Annie, thank you,” Suzie said and then both women hugged each other, awkwardly at first, but then once they were in each other’s embrace, they both held on to each other tightly for several minutes.
They separated and then Suzie said to Annie in a tentative voice, “Do you communicate much with my mother Annie?” “Yes, we do frequently. She is now operating the toy store pretty much on her own. She hired a new assistant and is making quite a go of it. When I discovered I was pregnant your mother was so very sweet and kind to me. I will never forget that Suzie. Your mother is a good woman.” “I think so too Annie. I think we both have a lot of feelings to sort out about our past. I want to contact her Annie but I am afraid that she probably doesn’t want to talk to me anymore. Can you act as an intermediary for me? If you could just let her know that I have been trying to improve myself and let her know that I love her and I hold no resentment towards her, that I just want us to talk, maybe she would listen to you,” Suzie said with her head down, clutching the handkerchief. “Well Suzie perhaps you can tell her on your own. Turn around; we have a surprise for you,” Annie said.
Suzie turned around and there stood Gloria in the doorway. “Mother!” Suzie exclaimed getting up. Gloria held her arms open and exclaimed, “Suzie!” And both mother and daughter came together in a tight embrace. The Reverend and Michael were standing behind and Annie got up to join them. She stood next to Michael, slipping her hand into his. She leaned in closer to him and whispered in his ear, “I love you Michael. And I understand the importance of getting one more chance!” She then brushed a light kiss on his cheek.

By Scrantonmjfan