tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53532764486713498082024-03-05T18:29:21.944-08:00pinkEleganceFanfiction Archives. The content on this blog is for mature audiences (18+). Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-46833622353928091622018-02-12T02:50:00.000-08:002018-02-12T02:50:50.895-08:00Come to Me, Inside My Love (3/?)<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.co.id/2018/01/come-to-me-inside-my-love-2.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">3. “Easy Conversation” –Jill
Scott<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The ritual was this: early
breakfast on the verandah, meditation time for Rey, swimming lessons, a break
for Rey, lunch on the verandah, afternoons spent with the Force, and finally,
dinner in the opulent dining room. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo
suggested the day after their arrival that they watch the sunset and Rey was
not pressed about it; she’d seen thousands of sunsets on Jakku.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Have you ever seen a sunset
over the ocean, though?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“No.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Humor me then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just this once.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">So she joined him on the
shoreline and watched with rapt attention as the sun sank below the horizon and
the sky change from orange to peach to pink to violet while the water ran over
her feet…it was exhilarating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo
watched her face as she watched the horizon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">After it was over, he asked,
“What do you think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It was nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not like a desert sunset.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The water…I’ve never seen anything like
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can we do it again tomorrow?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Of course.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it became part of their ritual.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Every night around eight,
Sora served them dinner in the dining room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The second day, Kylo asked Rey if she would be willing to dress for the
occasion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What’s wrong with the
clothes I have?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just a change of pace.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> have anything in your closet other than black?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He nodded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Well if you want me to…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">dress</i>…for dinner, then you should too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Have you even opened your closets since you’ve been here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey shook her head. “No.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a three-outfit rotation in her pack
and it was good enough for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
clothes were starting to fray, however, and she wasn’t sure what she would do
when the holes started showing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fashion
wasn’t something that was even remotely on her radar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I didn’t think so or you
would have said something already.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had
Sora get you some clothes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“When?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“The day before we
arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I don’t know exactly how
long we will be here, I made plans for an extended stay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t keep wearing the clothes you have;
they’re starting to show wear and tear.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He noticed that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How do you even know what size I wear?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo looked at her and his
expression spoke volumes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A thought
slipped out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I’ve held you in my arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made
a reasonable guess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You thought…</i> “You thought this entire
thing through, didn’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I told you I made
arrangements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once you went to sleep, I
went to work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">So that night, Rey began
dressing for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was so used to
wearing functional clothing that she had no idea how to adorn herself
properly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So Sora got a grooming droid
to assist her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The droid laid out
appropriate dinner attire and made suggestions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rey had to admit; her new clothes were very nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was glad to see that Kylo also purchased
practical clothing for her workouts in addition to fancier items for special
occasions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were there going to be
special occasions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were at least
ten dresses in her closet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo wanted
her to dress up for dinner, so he had a reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She made it a point to find out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The grooming droid laid a
dark red sheath on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had long
sleeves and a boatneck top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey fingered
the material; it was soft and supple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I like this one,” she
whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I like the way it feels.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The grooming droid beeped
agreeably and helped Rey put the dress on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then, making a series of clicking sounds, directed Rey to the vanity in
the bathroom so that it could do her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What is your name?” Rey
asked as she sat down and looked in the mirror.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The droid beeped.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“XJ-6.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hello.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My name is Rey.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The droid beeped a greeting and
then began to fix Rey’s hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
gathered it into a high bun and pinned it in place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey admitted to herself that she liked the
way she looked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The up-do was classier
than her triple ponytail and she appreciated the way it showed off her neck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She wondered what Kylo would
think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then wondered why she cared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">II.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When Rey made her entrance
into the dining room, she was startled to see Kylo in a tan tunic with matching
trousers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His glorious hair shone in the
lamplight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had never seen him in
anything but black, and to see him like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It slipped out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">WOW!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You look beautiful too,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He held out his hand and she took
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo brought her hand to his lips
and laid the lightest of kisses on her skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Something inside Rey <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">moved</i> and
she subconsciously chastised herself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He’s just a man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A man with darkness in his heart.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">But oh, what a man!!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The barest of smiles crossed
Kylo’s lips and Rey wondered if he caught that last part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Come, sit down.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The dining room had a table
that seated up to eight, but Rey and Kylo decided that first night to sit
facing each other in the side chairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
made conversation easier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Sora came in to fix appetizer
plates from the sideboard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo asked, “Do you like your
new clothes?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I do,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve never owned anything this pretty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never worn anything like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ben, why did you ask me to dress for dinner?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo took a drink of water
from a goblet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You may think this is
silly, but…well…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can tell me, you know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“When I was younger, before I
went to my uncle, my mother exposed me to certain things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once a week, we had to dress for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even my father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was her way of keeping certain Alderaani customs
alive with the purpose of passing them on to me, and the expectation that I
would pass them along to my children.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey stared at Kylo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t looking at her, but she didn’t say
anything other than “And?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I liked dressing up for
dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You might say that even at that
young of an age, I had a flair for the dramatic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In later years…well, let’s just say that
there were no more dinner parties and no opportunities to dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that I’m here, I thought that…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I like it, Ben.” Rey said,
holding out her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can do this
every night if you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo gazed at her, his
expression softer than she’d ever seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He took her hand and held it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Sora began putting down
appetizers: bowls of thick, creamy soup, fresh bread, a tray of thinly sliced
meats and a variety of cheeses, fruit and sliced vegetables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She poured wine into their glasses and headed
back into the kitchen to finish the rest of the meal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I don’t think Sora likes
me,” Rey said, gazing hungrily at the food as she released Kylo’s hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her stomach seemed to roll over and beg.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What gives you that
idea?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo took a sip of wine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“She never talks to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does she talk to you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Only when she has questions
about her orders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sora’s been the
caretaker of this house for a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She’s not one for casual conversation, so don’t worry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Where did you find this
place?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“We used to vacation here
when I was little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before everything
changed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This house and the surrounding property are
mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s very valuable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of my father’s friends won it in a game
of chance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lando, I think his name was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyway, he gave it to my parents as a wedding
gift and my parents said it would be mine when I came of age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They didn’t—my mother doesn’t—know that I’ve
claimed it.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey was fascinated. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo was sharing part of himself and she
couldn’t help but wonder about the boy he had been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Well, that explains a lot.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I haven’t been here for a very
long time, but once you came back to me, I knew we had to come here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have the privacy we need and the
environment necessary to train you properly without distractions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Kalamar is a place of healing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo helped himself to the
appetizer platters and handed Rey a plate before fixing his own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I wanted to hate you,” she
said, her voice low and rough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I tried
to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really did.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I wanted to hate you, Ben.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hated you at first but it didn’t last…I
tried to keep the anger going, but I couldn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo calmly wrapped some of
the meat around a piece of cheese and ate it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He chewed slowly, taking in her words before taking a long drink of his
wine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Excellent vintage,” he
remarked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Have a sip.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey obeyed and afterward, said,
“You never answered my question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
said you didn’t hate your father, so why…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why</i>
did you kill him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo took the time to create
another mega-appetizer and eat it before answering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He never gave me a chance to know him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to be a good s—he was hardly ever
around when I needed him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a
smuggler and was more interested in that than being my father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then it became a point where I realized I
still needed him; that I still wanted his fucking approval, but by then it was
too late and my need for him was keeping me from self-actualization.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to rid myself of that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was tearing me apart.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey picked up a piece of the
thinly sliced meat and put it on her tongue, and then a startled “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Oh</i>!” flew out of her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The meat was succulent and buttery and it
caught her by surprise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She quickly ate
another slice and drank some water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And
did you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo chose not to
answer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You really look beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Red is a good color on you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Answer me, Ben.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you rid yourself of the torment?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was it worth it or was it a waste?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo gazed at Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked completely different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her hair was up and her neck and shoulders
were bare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He felt a sudden urge to take
her in his arms and kiss the indentation at the base of her neck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Ben?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He took a long drink of
wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Snoke was more of a father to me
than Han Solo was.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She cringed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Snoke was using you, you know that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once he used you up, he would have discarded
you!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo sighed as he stirred his
soup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you mind if we change the
subject?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have you tried the soup?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no point in pushing him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything was very pleasant and she didn’t
want to ruin the moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would ask
him again at another time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not
yet.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She spooned some and smelled it
before taking a bite. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It’s delicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is it supposed to be?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She gobbled two more spoonfuls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo followed her lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I think it may be lentil.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey waited for him to finish
and when he looked at her, she made sure she was an open book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We’re not done talking about this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We </span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">have<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> to talk about it.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just not
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a beautiful night and we’re
enjoying dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s continue to do
that.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Maybe we need to agree on
some parameters,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t
want you intruding in on my thoughts unless you’re invited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And vice versa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes it might be easier to let you have
a peek when I can’t find the words to say what I mean and mean what I say.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Agreed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if I have to probe, I’ll give you a
little nudge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have to practice this
so that we know what it feels like.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I </i>am<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> enjoying dinner.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo smiled back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So am
I.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On cue, Sora came out with
more trays of deliciousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey found
herself gazing longingly at filet mignon, roasted garlic potatoes with aioli and
green beans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo shook his napkin loose
and covered his lap with it while staring at Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her thoughts were clear as a bell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I’ve never had food like this before.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was easy to forget where she came
from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Was I staring?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As much as you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey speared a piece of meat
and bit into it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the juices ran
over her tongue, a shrill noise escaped from the back of her throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She quickly cut and ate another morsel,
covering her mouth with a napkin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“That is quite possibly the
best thing I’ve ever tasted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo was cutting his steak
and eating it with potatoes like a man used to having good food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey wondered what kind of day-to-day
existence he had before meeting her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Tell me about your life on
Jakku,” he said. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Don’t you already know?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Not all of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I prefer we actually converse during
dinner as opposed to reading minds.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Not much to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spent my days scavenging for parts so I
could trade them to get food to eat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What kind of food?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Bread,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Every now and then, I got lucky and was able
to barter some of the parts Unkar didn’t want for greens and veg-meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But bread is what I ate most of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lot of days I didn’t eat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo stared at her with his
fork halfway to his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I did not know that.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey didn’t even try to stop
him or herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How would you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember, I’m
nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I came from nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am nobody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All this…all this…I don’t know what role I’m meant to play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All I know for sure is that I’m supposed to
be with you.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’m sorry,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Don’t be,” she said, eating
another piece of steak and following it up with some green beans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It wasn’t your fault.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed her eyes in bliss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You did that every day?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Yes. Unkar Plutt was stingy.
I spent hours combing the insides of rusted AT-ATs and star destroyers for
parts worth far more than what he was willing to trade for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every week, he’d change the value of the
parts and I would get less and less.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She sighed, eternally grateful to be out of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo had a sudden urge to
send for his ship and take a quick trip to Jakku to cut Unkar Plutt’s throat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey kept on, lost in the
memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“One day, I was cleaning parts
and I looked over and saw an old woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was dressed much as I was, hair styled the same way, and her skin
was brown and leathery from the sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was so wrinkled, so ugl—and her hands were…I knew she’d spent a lifetime doing
the same thing I was doing and that was going to be my fate if my parents
didn’t—if I couldn’t…if I didn’t…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I didn’t want to end up like her.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She put her fork down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Rey?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I’m fine.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m all right,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t that long ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Less than a month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Weeks, even.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A few minutes passed where
there was nothing but the sounds of them enjoying dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then Sora came out with dessert: chocolate
cake topped with fat strawberries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey
stared at it when it was placed between her and Kylo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It smelled heavenly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Chocolate lava cake,” Kylo
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“My mother’s favorite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mine too…for a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought you might like it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey’s expression was
clear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Your turn to talk.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Try it,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just cut into it and see if you like
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My expectation is that you
will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Women love chocolate, so I’ve been
told.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey picked up her knife and
cut into the cake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Know much about women, do you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is </i>definitely<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> your turn to
talk.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Carefully, she put the slice
on a plate and cut into it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo watched
her greedily; waiting for the moment she closed her lips around the fork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it came, he took a sharp breath, feeling
a kind of way all over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How long had it
been since he’d enjoyed pleasures of the skin???<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Snoke kept him hopping from task to task and
the last time he’d…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">What are you on about?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Nothing,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How is it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It’s glorious,” she
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> the best thing I’ve ever tasted.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She ate another bite, this time closing her
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She licked the fork and Kylo
stifled a groan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He finished his wine and the
rest of his dinner while watching Rey demolish two more slices of cake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“This is positively sinful,”
she said, licking her fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
were crumbs on her chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It can’t
possibly be good for you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’ve been told that’s the
case,” he said, watching her suck her fingertips with carefully hidden desire. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’d better not eat anymore
of that,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But I will finish
my dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything is so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The meals here have been so delicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I was on Ahch-To, I ate whatever Luke
caught from the sea and drank that…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ugh!</i>…nasty
green milk from that weird animal…” She absently wiped her mouth with the back
of her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So this has been agreeable.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Dinner finished, Kylo pushed
back from the table and stood up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
reached out for Rey and she followed suit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was getting easier and easier to take his hand without thought or
consequence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Come out on the verandah with me.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Why?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Are you tired?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">No.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Come with me.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">III.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He pushed open the door and
they walked out onto the verandah and down to the beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a full moon out and the sky was lit
with stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey subconsciously linked
fingers with Kylo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For several minutes,
they listened to the ebb and flow of the waves and stared at the moon and
stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I could live here</span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">, she thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I really could.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">You know that you can have anything that you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">So are we going to just push into each other’s mind
without asking?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“If so, then this won’t go the way you think, Ben.”<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’m following your lead,
Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You did it first.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Why did you want to come out
here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I thought you might like to
see what it looks like at night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re
out of the city, so it gets very dark and it’s easier to see the stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would you like to take a stroll?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“At night?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s really dark.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“No better time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I know my way home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">But
it’s your turn to talk</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo lifted Rey’s foot, removed
her sandal and then did the same to her other foot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You’ll want to feel the sand
between your toes,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He carried her sandals as
they began walking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey held on to his
hand, taking in the dark, quiet beauty of the night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“So…?” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“So what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It’s your turn to talk!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Oh,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t know much about women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was too busy with my…training.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was always another assignment for Snoke’s
faithful and gifted apprentice.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You’re a grown man,” she
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I may be naïve in a lot of
things, but that doesn’t mean I’m stupid.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Caught at the sound, Rey paused, released his
hand, and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He turned to
face her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’ve never heard you laugh
before.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She liked it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“For so long, there was never a reason to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I’m comfortable with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can be myself when I’m with you.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey stared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo took her hand, interlaced their fingers
and they continued to walk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“If you’re talking about
physical needs, of course I would sate them whenever possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just want you to know that I wasn’t out
here fucking anything and everything in a skirt.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was important she know that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey said, “They allow skirts
in the First Order?” and this time they both laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a beautiful thing that echoed across
the vast ocean.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo’s chest felt full.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So did Rey’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What in the name of the Force was going on?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He decided to steer the
chatter into shallower waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So did
you have…were you… involved with anyone on Jakku?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wondered about that for the longest time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey sighed, clenching his
hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Once, when I was 19, there was a
mechanic in Niima Outpost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His name was
Michael and we became friends, I guess…we tried to, at least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He made me feel less lonely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a nice guy, funny and optimistic.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">But…?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“One day he stopped coming
around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never saw him again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He simply vanished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was distraught because finally, I thought I
had a friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I eventually learned that
he got into some sort of skirmish with Niima the Hutt over a debt and Niima
killed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found out about it later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t have any friends after that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo carefully wondered if
the boy had managed to bed Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
couldn’t help thinking about it and certainly didn’t care for it, but there it
was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had had some prior experience
with a man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How much, he’d have to
figure out later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“People leave me,” she
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And then I had to leave the
people I’d come to know in the Resistance.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even though it was her choice to leave, she still felt a kind of way
about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">But you didn’t really know them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only ones you knew for sure were the
traitor FN-2187 and my mother.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey stared straight ahead as
they walked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re right; the sand
feels good between my toes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Rey, you’ll never be lonely
again. Not as long as I’m around.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Even if it’s in the Light?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Especially if it’s in the
Dark.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">There it was again, that
fuzzy, hazy boundary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You’re not finished
talking,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What else do you want to
know?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Do you hate your mother?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey caught something in their
bond; a snippet of powerful emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sadness, it might have been.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What is it, Ben?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I didn’t hate her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She accepted me for who I was, but when the
time came she insisted…she insisted I get training from my uncle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t want to go; didn’t want to leave her
but she wouldn’t hear of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told me
that there was power in me—in our family—and my uncle could help me to wield it
and control it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to stay home
with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told her that I would be
okay if I could just stay with her, but she said she could not help with my
gifts; that the only person she trusted to do so was my uncle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She basically pushed me out of the nest before
I was ready to fly and…and…I resented her for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I didn’t hate her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could never hate her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s my mother, and if I could keep her from
harm, I would.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey stopped again, staring at
him, staring into him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">You didn’t fire upon her ship when you had the chance.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I would never hurt her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t speak for anyone else in the Order.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“So you hated your father and
resented your mother.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I felt so alone,” he said
and she could feel the anguish through their bond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I felt unloved, unwanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wouldn’t listen to what I wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You assumed that my parents loved me and gave
a damn about me, but I never got that from them, not when I got older.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It angered me and in my rage, I admit to
throwing a tantrum or three.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s how
Snoke found me…and you know the rest.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Tantrum? Or three?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What did you do???<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kylo took her hand again and
this time, he placed it against the scar on his cheek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her scar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rey turned and put her other hand on his other cheek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stared into his eyes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“The people who were supposed
to love you and protect you dropped the ball in the moments it mattered the
most.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luke made a serious mistake and
inadvertently sent you down the path you’re on, but you can change things,
Ben.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re not committed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You just have to want to change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have Snoke in your head anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re not bound to his teachings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m here with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re not alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’m the Supreme Leader,” he
said, covering her hands with his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
can do anything I want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rey closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was the truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was absolutely right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was the head of the First Order and he
could do anything he wanted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Perhaps he would be willing
do anything <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">she</i> wanted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">***<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The walk back to the house
was mostly done in quiet contemplation for both mediums of conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a gorgeous night and Rey had had a
productive second day and it was time to go to bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Before they took the path
that led them back to the house, Kylo told Rey to rinse her feet off in the
surf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did so, but questioned the
futility of it since she had to walk back through the sand to get to the
path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He merely scooped her up and
carried her back to the house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When he picked her up, the
breath went out of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew he had
carried her before, but she’d been…asleep…for that one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looped her arm around his neck and
pressed her cheek against his chest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She couldn’t help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He smelled good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This is
pleasant.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">You weigh hardly anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could carry you all day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Well, that wouldn’t be very productive.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“So, when are you going to
teach me how to stop a blaster bolt?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Soon enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I’m so curious.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey was making an attempt at levity because
she could sense he was still a bit perturbed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I’m fine.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Are you sure?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Here we are,” he said, as
they reached the back door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put her
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you want to put your shoes
back on or no?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I can go without them.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She opened the door and they walked in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before turning in the direction of her
bedroom, she took Kylo’s hand once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Thank you for a lovely evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I had a good time.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She squeezed
it and he nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Get some rest,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Tomorrow will be here soon
enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Chapter Soundtrack:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Come & Talk to Me”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Jodeci<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Back and Forth”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Aaliyah<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Come to Me”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Brad Fiedel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Bring Me to Life”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Evanescence <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“By Your Side”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Sade<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">next</span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-86199634906924477262018-01-30T20:58:00.001-08:002018-02-12T02:53:42.542-08:00Come to Me, Inside My Love (2/?)<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.co.id/2018/01/come-to-me-inside-my-love_24.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Learning to Fly”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Pink Floyd<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey woke up quick; sitting up
so fast her head swam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked
around, taking in her surroundings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was in a bedroom, but where, she had no idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rey looked down and breathed a sigh of relief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
clothing was intact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked around
and saw a wall of windows off to her left with sunlight streaming in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey got up and walked towards them, wondering
where she was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey pulled back the curtains
and a gasp escaped her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was on a
beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was an ocean not 300 yards
away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At night, desperate for sleep…you imagine an ocean…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Were they on Nubia?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had she slept that long?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t recall being awake at any time
since she fell asleep on Kylo’s cot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey began looking around for
her things and found them on a chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
saw the bathroom and looked down at herself once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deciding, she headed in to take a
shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Freshers were nice, but the
opportunity to have cascading water…she’d heard the stories and wasn’t about to
miss it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The bathroom was
enormous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a shower and a
bathtub the size of her escape pod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey
stared at it dumbly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d never seen a
real one before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“My mother used to have one.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey jumped at the sound of
his voice; deep, mellifluous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked
up to see Kylo standing in the bathroom doorway, filling it with his enormous
frame.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You scared me,” she
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t sneak up on me like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I thought you heard me
enter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I asked if you were decent.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I didn’t hear you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Well, I imagine you’re
curious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is a bathtub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You fill it with water and get in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mother had one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes she would let me use it when I was
younger.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey turned to look at him,
wondering about the child he had been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What was it like?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I don’t remember.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ben, where are we?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I told you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nubia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are outside the capital city of Kalamar, in the Veridian Province.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“There’s a beach,” she said,
smiling. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ahch-To had no beaches. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s an ocean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The water looks green.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo turned his lips up in
the barest of smiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I thought you
might like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Where’s everyone else?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Another city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Madir.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s not nearby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“So I’m here alone?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be staying here as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My quarters are on the other end of the
house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And there is a gardener and a
maid somewhere around here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey held herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just me and you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You want me to train you,
right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Of course.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Then yes, it’s just me and
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need a measure of privacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>General Hux won’t bother us unless it is of
extreme importance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does this make you
nervous?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Of course not, Ben.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not uncomfortable around you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I’ll have breakfast prepared
for you while you shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then we
will begin your education.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He turned to leave and she
said, “Ben.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wait.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo turned to look at
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He nodded and left the
bathroom in a swish of black robes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">***<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To Rey’s delight, breakfast
was outside on a huge verandah that overlooked the beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat down across from Kylo and took
everything in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a warm breeze
blowing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed her eyes and took
several slow, deep breaths while listening to the sound of the waves gently crashing
on the shore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t think she would
ever get used to listening to the sounds of the ocean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was one of the benefits of Ahch-To, but
Ahch-To didn’t have beaches like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo had a holoframe in his
hand and was reading it when she sat down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked well
rested, which was good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She needed to
be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t sure exactly where they
were going to start, but he knew he planned to push her as far as she could go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The maid came up, pushing a
service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She began to serve breakfast
and Rey’s stomach did a series of somersaults when she smelled the food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had never smelled anything so divine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“What are we having?” she
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She really didn’t care what it
was; she was starving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I don’t know your
preferences, so I had Sora make a little bit of everything that was available.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey turned to the maid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Hi Sora.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m Rey.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sora nodded, giving her a
small smile as she laid out the serving dishes: there were sausages, bread
rolls, eggs both boiled and scrambled, fresh fruit, Danish and toast, polenta,
jam, honey, marmalade, juices and yogurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sora handed Rey a plate and motioned that she serve herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey did so, noticing that Sora began fixing
another plate; piling it high with eggs, sausage, rolls and fruit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sora placed the plate in
front of Kylo and Rey made a face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo, feeling the ripple of
curiosity, looked up from the holoframe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“She knows what I like to eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Does that bother you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No,” Rey said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was just wondering why she made me fix my
own plate but served you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It really
doesn’t matter; I prefer to do for myself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Don’t sell yourself short,
Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sora is very good at what she
does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All you have to do is let her know
your preferences and you’ll be fine.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
turned his attention back to the holoframe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey nodded and picked up her
sausage, trying to think of the last meal she ate that required anything more
than her fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sausage was cooked
to perfection, the scrambled eggs divine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She took a swig of juice, noticing the odd way Kylo cracked his boiled
eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put them on an empty plate and
rolled them across using the palm of his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He picked up an egg and began to remove the shell, which came off in
three easy pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo liberally doused
the egg in salt and pepper before biting into half of it with his front
teeth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He chewed slowly before finishing
off the egg with one last bite.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey was captivated, but she
continued to eat her food, enjoying every bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This was downright extravagant compared to the simple meals she’d
consumed on Jakku and Ahch-To.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tried
not to wolf down her food, but it was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so…good.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo put the holoframe away
and stared at her as he ate his second egg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Rey, do you know how to swim?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m from a desert planet, remember.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I was just thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s a pool here, on the other side of the
house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should learn how to swim,” he
replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I think it will add another
dimension to the way you move when you fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And it’s good exercise, not that you need it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey was interested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are you going to teach me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey got the bright idea to
cut open a warm bread roll and stuff it with eggs and sausage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took a bite and chewed heartily before asking,
“What else do I need to learn?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You should improve on using
the Force when you fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do it with
me, but I haven’t seen you do it to anyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will also teach you how to deflect and stop
a blaster bolt, and there is the matter of the darkness in you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dealing with that will come soon enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have plenty of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No need to rush.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey looked up from her
breakfast sandwich, mouth full of food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo
stabbed a sausage with a fork and ate it in two bites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He saw it too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That you went right towards the dark and did
not try to stop yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s a
reason for that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey upended her glass and
wiped her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m not on the Dark
Side, Ben.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I didn’t say that,” he said,
taking a sip of coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I said you have
darkness in you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most people try to lie and pretend they don’t, and won’t acknowledge
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if you are to be with me, to
rule with me, you must.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t make
you evil to own every part of yourself.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He began to eat his third and final egg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Knowing yourself is key.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
understand that on an instinctive level; you wanted to know who your parents
were and you want to know who you are.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She considered that as she
began to eat some fruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What do we do
about that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The darkness, I mean.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Channel it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use the energy; don’t let it corrupt
you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was certainly odd to be saying
such things when he allowed the darkness to rule him completely at times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many a room had been destroyed when he
allowed his rage to get the better of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo didn’t want that for Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was fucking exhausting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">II.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Later that morning, they were
by the swimming pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey kept looking
at the pool and then at the ocean in the distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her eyes flitted back and forth, taking in
all the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wore a blue robe and
even though it was tied tight, she held the collar together with her fists. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After breakfast, Rey returned to her bedroom
to find scraps of cloth that Sora informed her she had to wear when it was time
for her to swim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey had never worn anything
as skimpy as what lay underneath the robe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Didn’t even know such things existed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So much skin showed and she was self-conscious about removing the robe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I’ve never seen so much
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why are we here and not out
there?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She waved at the ocean.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Because you can’t swim and
you should not learn how to in the ocean where the current can pull you
under.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baby steps, young padawan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t call me that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You’re not a Jedi either,
but you insist on using the term.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
would you like me to call you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Rey.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Works for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo wore a long black robe
and removed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey found herself
staring at him and quickly turned her eyes away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She remembered when the Force brought them
together when he was half-naked and she couldn’t help but blush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo was in very good shape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He also wasn’t
embarrassed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You do understand that
when you go swimming, you have to wear appropriate attire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are swim trunks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you put on the suit Sora left on your
bed?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Would you turn around so I
can see your face?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey turned around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m sorry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m not used to all this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was next door to naked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Fair enough.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tossed his robe onto one of the lounge
chairs, walked down the steps and slid into the pool as smooth as a hot knife
sliding through butter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey watched him,
entranced by how gracefully he entered the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He turned back to look at her and held out
his hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Come, Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come to me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey hesitated, closed her
eyes and sucked in a long breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
opened the robe and let it fall to the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The swimsuit she wore was a red bikini. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took another breath and opened her
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo was staring at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I feel naked,” she
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m practically naked.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo raised his
eyebrows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey was of average size, but
she had a beautiful shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long limbs, a
snug waist, slim hips, almost-perfect breasts…and he averted his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Come into the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not deep here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can walk in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey made her way in,
screeching when the cool water touched her skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s cold!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I thought it would be warm.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
tried to jump back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“It takes a lot of energy to
warm up a swimming pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come to me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He held out his hand again and she took it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo brought her close and led her to one
side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey was glad that she could stand
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is it this deep all over?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gets deeper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grab the rail,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re going to start with breathing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to see how long you can hold your
breath under water.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey’s eyes widened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Like this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo took a deep breath and submerged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey stared, trying not to freak out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After what felt like a long time, he came
back up and moved his hair out of his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey shook her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t do that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All you have to do is bend your knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m here with you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t let anything happen to you, Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She did know it, but it
didn’t change the fact that she was scared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Do you trust me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Her response was immediate
and truthful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Hold on to the rail with one
hand and take mine with the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll
do it with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a deep breath.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, following Kylo’s lead, Rey squeezed her
eyes shut and submerged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though she
had a firm grip on the rail and Kylo held her hand, she was still nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a couple of seconds, she stood up and
pushed her hair out of her eyes, gasping for breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo popped back up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’ll get used to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plan I have for you is that you will do
ten of these before doing water calisthenics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want you to be comfortable in the water before we do any serious
lessons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you to learn how to hold
your breath and how to be at ease when you’re in the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can do it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I’ve never done this
before.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I told you, we have plenty of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come on; let’s try again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we’ll work on your floating.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">An hour went by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the end, Rey was better at holding her
breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo also showed her how to lie
on her back and float.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first time,
she freaked the hell out, but once she realized that she was fairly buoyant, it
became easier to relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo was
extremely patient and encouraging, and pleased when she began to get the hang
of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He asked if he could help her
balance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She agreed and ignored the
flutter in her belly when she felt his hands on her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Relax,” he said, in a low
voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s not hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You just have to get used to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lie back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I won’t let you slip under.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey lay back in the water,
her hand on his shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She extended
her legs and closed her eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She heard Kylo say, “Open
your eyes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When she did, she found
herself staring up into a blue, blue sky with enormous fluffy clouds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A flock of birds flew overhead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was easy to focus in the water when she
allowed herself to be distracted by the sky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Part of her was giddy at the multiple sensations: the water, the
sunlight, the sounds of the birds and the breeze and the feel of Kylo’s hands
on her back and waist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could hear
Kylo’s breathing change and wondered if his heart was beating as fast as hers
was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other part of her could not
believe she was immersed in a body of water in such a lush and beautiful
place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three weeks ago, she was on
Jakku, scrapping for a meager existence in a barren desert wasteland.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo’s deep voice broke
through her consciousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Try to right
yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m right here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t let anything happen to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be afraid.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey tried to nod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Okay,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Take a couple of breaths and
relax before you do it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Okay,” she said again. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took one long, deep breath, moved her arms
and tried to orient herself in the way he showed her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when her head unexpectedly dipped below
the water, she freaked out and inhaled water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She tried to get her head back up, but panic set in and she began to
flail, swallowing even more water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo
grabbed her and brought her up to the surface. She wrapped herself around him,
coughing until her face turned red.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I’ve got you Rey,” he said
in a low voice, his hand on her back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m
here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey refused to let him go and
buried her face in his neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo rubbed
her back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve got you, Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s get out of the
pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think that’s enough for today.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She was still scared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could feel her trembling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You need to let me go so that we can get
out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“N-n-n-no,” she said. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That had been utterly terrifying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being in Kylo’s arms made her feel safe and
she desperately needed to feel safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Tell you what,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Slide around and you can hold on
to my back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That will make it easier for
me to swim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you do that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I-I-I’ll t-try.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tried to calm herself down but it wasn’t
working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Good girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey kept her arms around his
neck as she slipped around his body to attach herself to his back like a
wayward turtle shell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had blessedly
broad shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo loosened the hold on his
neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t choke me, all right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“O-O-Okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo adjusted her and pushed
off towards the pool steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could
hear Rey’s erratic breathing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took
him all of five seconds to reach the steps and then he got to his feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She still clung to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Rey, you can get off
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re in the shallow end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can stand up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No,” she said, clinging to
him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You’re safe,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Come on now, let me go<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey loosened her grip and
slid down Kylo’s body, holding on to him until her toes touched the bottom of
the pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Slowly, she removed her arms
from around his neck and exhaled deeply when she realized she was standing up,
half out of the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo took her
hand and led her up the steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He handed
her a towel and took one for himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey sat on one of the lounge
chairs and collected herself. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one
time she’d seen water was on Ahch-To and learning to swim was neither on hers
nor Luke’s agenda.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d only been able
to marvel at the sight of the ocean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey
now understood why she wasn’t ready to actually be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in</i> the ocean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she was
strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spite of how much it scared
her, she was not going to let today’s little setback keep her from learning how
to swim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would overcome her fear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey dried her hair and looked
up to find Kylo back in his robe, with her robe in his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took a moment to appreciate the
sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He really did have a nice body
and she found herself blushing like an errant schoolgirl.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Are you all right now?” he
asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stood up to put the robe on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t know what happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No need to explain,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s an unfamiliar
environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You lost your balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You just haven’t had the experience of open
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time we leave Kalamar, you
will be a proficient swimmer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Force
will guide you, and as long as I am with you, you’re safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just don’t get in the pool without me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She tied her robe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are we doing next?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“For you, I suggest a
nap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we will start working on your meditation
skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then lunch, and after that, we
will spar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you have no lightsaber, we
will fight using balsawood swords.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I have to get a new
lightsaber.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You’ll get a new one soon
enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now, we’ll use the wood
swords.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why don’t you return to your
quarters and get some rest?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll see you
in a couple of hours.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was good enough for her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">III.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Some hours later, after a
delicious lunch of roast chicken and vegetables, Rey and Kylo squared off on
the beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey was over her swimming
snafu and felt supremely confident facing her opponent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d beaten him before and fought him to a
draw that last time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And they were
playing with little more than sticks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
balsawood sword was light, far lighter than her lightsaber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did a few practice swings to get the feel
of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Are we going to land blows?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo stood about eight feet
away, wearing a black T-shirt and pants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I plan to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fair enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo swung the balsawood as
easily as he swung his saber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ready?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Without warning, Rey ran
towards him and the wood swords clicked as Kylo blocked her initial swing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stepped back and assumed a fight stance,
beckoning Rey to come again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did so,
sidestepping and swinging, pushing forward as Kylo stepped back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She swung hard and Kylo ducked the blow
before kicking the sword out of her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Before Rey had a chance to retaliate, Kylo swept her legs out from under
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took two steps back, staring at
her, his face impassive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey scrambled to her
feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Did you just kick my legs out
from under me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As soon as Rey was upright,
Kylo swung his balsawood stick at her head and she ducked as fast as she could,
but not before the stick grazed her scalp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rey grabbed her head and found herself knocked back about 20 feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She fell into the sand and glared at Kylo,
who stood calmly watching her, his hand out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had hit her with the Force.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey angrily held out her hand
and her balsawood sword flew into it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She got to her feet, furious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was better than this!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could beat
him!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The top of her head hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked at her opponent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo was still in his same spot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His expression was unreadable, but Rey could
feel his smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Jerk!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I told you that I planned to land blows.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey paused, realizing that
Kylo hadn’t responded verbally. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Did you just…?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You called me a jerk.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“But I didn’t say it!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I heard you clearly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“But did you see my mouth
form the words?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I didn’t say it
out loud.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo frowned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey walked towards him, her balsawood
sword forgotten in her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re in my head, Ben.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re in my head. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re a jerk for hitting me on my head.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo’s expression
changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could hear her, but her lips
weren’t moving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then it hit him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can read your mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And apparently, you can read mine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey stopped inches in front
of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> the Force?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“This is the link Snoke
created between us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has to be.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey waited a moment,
considering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your mother said that it
wasn’t Snoke that created the bond between us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She said he merely amplified a connection we already had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told me that Snoke couldn’t manipulate
what didn’t already exist.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo stared at Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Don’t
be afraid…</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She finished the
thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I feel it too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I did
not think such a thing was possible, even with the Force.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In all of the histories that I’ve consumed, I
have never read of such a connection.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey was practical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So how
do I keep you out of my head?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I
stay out of yours?<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Maybe it’s cliché,” Kylo
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But I guess we just have to
concentrate and use the Force.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really
don’t have an answer for you, Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
will take some practice, I’m sure.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey had another
question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ben, after I left Crait, did
you hear me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you sense me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you feel me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you see me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I felt something in my
mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like an itch that I
couldn’t scratch and it got worse and worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I found a quiet place in the base so I could meditate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then I saw you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey nodded, understanding
that their connection went a lot deeper than just random drop-ins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could summon Kylo if she concentrated
hard enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was likely Kylo could do
the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was going to require
further investigation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“So now we know exactly what
we’re dealing with,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo gripped his sword and
assumed a fight posture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We do
indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, let’s see if you can figure
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey smiled and jumped into an
L-stance, raising her balsawood sword.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Challenge accepted.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">IV.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After an intense sparring
session and a delicious dinner consisting of grilled salmon, sautéed lemon
broccoli and whipped potatoes, Rey was convinced that returning to Kylo was the
right decision. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.co.id/2018/02/come-to-me-inside-my-love-3.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Chapter Soundtrack:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Just Me & You" --Tony Toni Tone</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Live With Me” –Massive Attack<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Shoop”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>--Salt N Pepa<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Alone” –Colin Newman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Read Your Mind” –Avant </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-16146404936820214052018-01-24T02:27:00.002-08:002018-01-30T20:59:43.376-08:00Come To Me, Inside My Love<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Fandom:</b> Star Wars</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Pairing:</b> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey/Kylo Ren<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Rating:</b> Mature/18+<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Timeframe:</b> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Immediately after TLJ<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Disclaimer:</b> Broke as fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Characters you recognize do not belong to
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Characters you don’t recognize are
mine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Summary:</b><b> </b>
An exploration of the bond between Kylo Ren and Rey. <s><o:p></o:p></s></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A/N:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I
was not impressed with either TFA or TLJ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was all “meh” after both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
after re-watching certain scenes in TFA and TLJ, my beloved Muse decided that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">she</i> was quite impressed with the good
‘ship Reylo, enough that I’m about to spit out a fic I don’t have time to
write.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose I should not be
surprised.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A/A/N:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t know where this is going to lead, so…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">1. “Come Back to Me” -Janet Jackson</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“We have everything we need.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey looked the general in the
eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was less than 25 people on board
the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Falcon</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All that was left of the Resistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much loss of life…and they lost
anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey didn’t know where they were
headed, but it became clear to her two minutes after the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Falcon</i> took off from Crait that she knew where <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">she</i> was going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ship
hadn’t even cleared the lower levels of the atmosphere when she felt it—<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>—deep in her soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She couldn’t hide it from
Leia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tried.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Where are we going,
General?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Sajava IV,” she said. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“A small planet in the Outer Rim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll be safe there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t worry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I’m not worried,” Rey
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s just that…that…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leia stared at the girl,
closing her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A moment later, she
reached out and put her hand on Rey’s shoulder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You need to leave.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey looked at the woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But we—the Resistance—I can’t just—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leia squeezed Rey’s
shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re connected to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can feel it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow, you and Ben have developed a bond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A powerful one.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Snoke did it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He opened us up to one another. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have no control over it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Leave it to Snoke to take credit
for something as rare as that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I assure
you, Rey, that you and my son had a connection before Snoke exploited it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t have used it if it wasn’t already
there to begin with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He just magnified
it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey thought back to when Kylo
interrogated her on his ship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tried
to extract information from her and she fought him to keep her secrets
hid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt like he was trying to pull
her brain out through her eye sockets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some of her secrets went willingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Others, not so much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She remembered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had said, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Don’t be afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel it, too</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And there it was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey trembled at the
memory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Snoke is dead,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He killed him to save me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leia gasped softly, pulling
back to look Rey in the eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ben killed
Supreme Leader Snoke?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Snoke was torturing me and next thing I know,
he was cut in half with my lightsaber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ben
did that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, together, we fought
Snoke’s guards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We made it out in one
piece…at least I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was an
explosion and we got separated…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey steeled herself because
she did not want Leia to know how much she liked fighting and killing Snoke’s
Praetorian Guard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She and Kylo decimated
the squad in a matter of minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Force was flowing freely and it felt <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">good</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She also didn’t want Leia privy to her and
Ben’s last conversation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leia squeezed Rey’s
hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You can’t stay with us,
Rey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not now, maybe not for a long
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needs you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You have to go to him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Let the past die.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Kill it if you have to.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You need a teacher.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You’re not alone.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need him,” Rey said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I need to finish my training.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">***<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">She didn’t know how to break
it to Finn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey didn’t believe she could
find the words to convey to her friend that she had to leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That she wasn’t the Jedi she could be; that
she needed more training and there was no one else in the galaxy that could
give her the education she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
she got BB-8 to record a message with the instructions to play it for him after
she left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully, Leia could make him
understand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey went into the cargo
bay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed her eyes and tried to
focus. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pictured Kylo in her mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could she reach him like this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was it possible that she could train herself
to use their Force bond?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had no
idea, but she kept concentrating nonetheless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe it would work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had
never tried to reach out to him before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After what felt like hours
and the beginnings of a nasty headache, she saw him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was on board his command shuttle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Are you still on Crait?” she
asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“We’re leaving,” he said, his
voice terse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He really didn’t feel like
talking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Don’t leave yet,” she said,
her voice just above a whisper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">That got his attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What did you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey rubbed her eyes with her
fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was exhausted and her head
hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m coming back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t leave without me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo stared at her as if she
were out of her mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that chat on
board Snoke’s ship…?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“It took me less than five
minutes to figure out that I may have been a bit…hasty… in denying your request.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You want to come back?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To me?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He wasn’t sure he heard her correctly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I need you,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You were right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need your guidance, your expertise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not the Jedi I should be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes it’s hard to find the light when
all I want to do is go towards the dark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t have the control that I want, and in spite of being on board a
ship full of people, I’m still…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">alone</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew he would understand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“How far away are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Not far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We cleared Crait’s atmosphere not long ago.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I will wait for you in the
remains of the rebel base.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will not
wait forever.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey nodded, closing her
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shook her head, wondering if
and when the connection would break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
didn’t have much time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She already had
her belongings stashed in an escape pod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leia entered the cargo bay to
see her off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She helped Rey into the pod
and sealed the door before putting in the coordinates Rey gave her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put her hand against the glass and Rey
followed suit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Good-bye,” Rey mouthed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leia nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“May the force be with you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">***<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He was sitting behind one of
the consoles when she arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey
yawned, fatigue beginning to overcome her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She hadn’t had a good night’s sleep in a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stone beds on Ahch-To did a number on her
back and hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moving all of those rocks
on Crait sapped her of most of her strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was exhausted and her head hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rey walked right up to Kylo and extended her hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo knew better than to ask
if she had decided to join him in the Dark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That conversation would come later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He also knew he had no interest in joining her in the Light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>
was, he was down for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took her
hand and pulled her close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey looked up
at him, into his dark, tortured eyes and without thought, used her free hand to
caress the left side of his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where
she cut him with her lightsaber.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A random thought came from out
of nowhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I did that.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Let’s go,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">II.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When she boarded Kylo’s ship,
she was surprised to see General Hux at the command.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stared at her and sneered at Kylo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“What in the hell is that
scavenger scum doing here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She killed
the Supreme Leader!! Is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> why you
had us wait here all this time???”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hux’s
face was nearly the color of his hair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey was too tired to give the
general anything more than a side-eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Kylo glared at Hux and raised his fingers in a pincer grip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hux knew exactly what that meant and turned
away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Can we leave <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">now</i>, Supreme Leader?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not wish to be disturbed under any
circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The resistance is dead
and we have our own casualties to take care of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I leave that to you, but if you cross me or go against my wishes, I will
stop your breath permanently.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo didn’t wait for Hux to
answer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took Rey’s arm and guided her
to his private chamber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey entered the
room and saw a cot off to one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
headed towards it without a word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo
let her go; he could sense her fatigue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rey sat down after putting her things to the side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo sat in his chair, about ten feet from
her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Why did you change your
mind?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I told you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m not the Jedi I should be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
realized I was wrong shortly after I left.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I don’t train Jedis,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I told you that you need to let
all that go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let it die.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have the potential to be so much more
beyond those limitations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can rule
the galaxy, you and I.” It was all very simple to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“You’re serious about this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I wouldn’t say so
otherwise.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Did you tell Hux that I
killed Snoke?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“It seemed like a good idea
at the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All that matters now is
that I’m the Supreme Leader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s going
to try something mutinous, I’m sure, but I can handle Hux now that I don’t have
Snoke hovering over me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kylo had no
problems wiping the general off the face of the universe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey rubbed her face with her
hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m so tired.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“When did you last sleep?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Ahch-To.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Then I’ll leave you to
rest.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Where are we going, Ben?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“After we transfer to the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Finalizer</i>, we will go to Nubia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s in the Corellian system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The First Order, like the Resistance, has
lost a lot of lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were over 225
million people employed on Snoke’s ship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The First Order was based out of the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Supremacy</i>
and when the ship exploded, most of those lives and our home base were
lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Factory workers, engineers,
communications staff, human resources and technical specialists were
slaughtered within minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus their
families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not to mention the other ships
we lost, including the dreadnought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
have wounds too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey tried to not be moved by
his words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seemed so odd to hear it
put that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Resistance lost just
as much as the First Order had, but truly, the two could not be compared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Resistance was down to a handful of
people, but not the First Order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
loss of life was loss of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never
mind Kylo’s personal participation in the loss of many innocent and Resistance
lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“So yes, we need to rebuild. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our headquarters will be based out of Nubia
for now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“How far are we from Nubia?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Around six or seven parsecs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will be jumping to light speed soon
enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Does the First Order have
anything in the Corellian system?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
Snoke’s ship was the headquarters, then how can there be anything there for you
to use?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I made arrangements just
before we connected.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Arrangements for what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Are you deliberately being
obtuse?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey snorted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m just trying to understand where we are going and why.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Oh, do you plan to spy on
us?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would find it difficult if that
were the case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Ben, I am not a spy and don’t
plan to be anything more than your student and confidant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I meant what I said.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s all?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“What else do you want me to
be?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not a spy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you said, the Resistance is dead.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Best to think of it that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If Leia was able to rebuild, Rey didn’t want
Kylo to know about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His eyes were onyx marbles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“My partner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I told you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We could rule the
galaxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re more powerful than you
realize, but at least you appreciate that you need a teacher.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey bent to untie her shoes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“What did Skywalker teach
you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Not much,” she said as she
took her shoes off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I need more
practice.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the lonely days when she
wasn’t chasing Luke around the Temple remains, she read the ancient texts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The information might actually become useful
once she got her fighting skills up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Kylo smirked,
unsurprised.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your fighting skills are
good,” he said, watching her as she rubbed her feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your abilities complement mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you notice that when we were fighting the
Praetorian Guard?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rey wiggled her toes and
closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not really.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was trying not to die.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Well, let that be lesson
one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have to be able to read the
entire room and anticipate any number of events and possible outcomes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have to stay ready when you are in the
company of the enemy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It wasn’t bad advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rey yawned again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Sorry,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m really struggling now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“No worries,” he
replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Get some rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll wake you when we come out of light
speed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">She leaned back. The cot was a standard model, but was loads
more comfortable than the rocks she slept on back on Ahch-To. She was asleep within minutes.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.co.id/2018/01/come-to-me-inside-my-love-2.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-76192692963072415892016-06-05T09:32:00.002-07:002016-06-05T09:32:34.330-07:00Lovesick (12/12)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-1112.html" target="_blank">Previous </a> <a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick.html" target="_blank"> </a></span><span style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick.html" target="_blank">Start</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">12: Equilibrium</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor showed up at Nedra’s apartment later that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She called him a few hours ago, but he was in
the middle of some work and told her he would be there that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He asked if she was all right, and she said
yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He asked if she had good news, and
all she said was that she had news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was no inflection to her voice, and Victor didn’t know how to feel
about it at first.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">As he drove, he realized he had no need to worry, because he
was going to get what he wanted regardless of the outcome between Nedra and
Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It came down to two things: either
Nedra was now single, or Victor would split time with Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either way was fine with him, as long as he
continued his relationship with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Splitting time was easy when Jon was gone six months out of the
year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra told him that Jon was
considering altering his schedule so that he could be home more, but that
didn’t concern Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would follow her
lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as he was concerned, the
situation could work as long as all three remained open-minded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">One thing was for sure: if he had the chance to fuck Nedra,
he would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They hadn’t gone this long
without sex in weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The thought made
Victor smile and he wondered if Jon was curious enough to ever watch him with
Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He</i> was, if the shoe was on the other foot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thought he’d mention it to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor knocked on the door and Nedra opened it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sported well-worn jeans and a Ruby Rhod
Super Green T-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t have on
a bra, and her hair framed her face in thick spirally curls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor,” she said, hugging him in the doorway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He slid his arms around her and grabbed her
ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra kissed him slowly, stroking his ears
and he found himself holding her tight for an extra few seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt like good news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reluctantly, Victor pulled away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was smiling and he thought she was
beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pulled him inside and
closed the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You look a million times better than when I last saw you,”
he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s because I feel better,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come now, come into the living room.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took his hand and led him there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was on the couch, watching TV and
drinking a beer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looked at Victor as
Nedra led him to one of the chairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor sat down and she asked him if he wanted a beer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Sure, why not?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra darted into the kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched her go, smiling at her
exuberance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon watched him watching
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She’s amazing, isn’t she?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She is.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon jumped right in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Because she is, I have to know…are you a good man, Victor von Doom?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Define ‘good.’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you a stand-up gentleman?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can I trust that you will do right by Roxy?
Will you put her needs before your own?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Will you take care of her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will
you give her anything she wants?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
are important considerations. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to
know that you will do at least my minimum when it comes to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Otherwise this arrangement won’t work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor leaned back in the chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes, yes, yes, yes and yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m already doing all of those things, Jon,
so those questions are redundant.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I have to believe that I can trust you. Roxy does, but she
knows you far better than I do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you trust Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re right to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If Nedra thought I wasn’t a stand-up guy, or that I treated her in any
way other than the way she prefers, I wouldn’t be here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon finished his beer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“This whole thing has fucked with my head, but I did what you said. I
did some research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know if I
understand all of it, but it isn’t something I can ignore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Roxy and I had a long talk this morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s going to take getting used to, but what
you need to know is that I’m okay with you being in her life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She needs you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
didn’t give you a choice about that, Jon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You missed the part where I said that I’m <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">okay</i> with it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor eyed Jon carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Really.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love her
way too much to let you just step in and take her away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To hell with that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have almost 20 years invested in her and
our relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understand why, even
if I don’t 100% care for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love her
enough to give her <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">anything</i> she wants
and what she wants—needs—is you and…that…which you can give her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor studied the man’s expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon might have been talking about the weather
for all his expression and tone revealed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“So you’re not going to leave her, then?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had held out some hope that would occur.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even
close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You think I would just let Roxy
go that easily just because I didn’t understand a significant aspect of her character?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m better than that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re getting
married.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at Jon for a long moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Married?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra said she wasn’t the marrying kind.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve wanted to marry Roxy for years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I now know why she didn’t want to at first and
we’ve cleared that up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re not going
to have a ceremony; just a quick stop at the courthouse and off on our
honeymoon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“When is this happening?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m going to be home for three more weeks, so sometime next
week.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Um…okay,” Victor said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked at him, his expression revealing nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How do you feel about her becoming my wife?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It
doesn’t change anything, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
give a shit what her last name is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
and I are still going to do what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">we</i>
do regardless of what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Congratulations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a question for you, however.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon saw it coming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“No, my decision to accept your relationship was not based on whether
Roxy married me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could have said no
and still have you in her life and I would be okay with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has nothing to do with you and everything
to do with a conversation we didn’t have a decade ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which I have to thank you for, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Roxy and I assumed a lot of things in our relationship were
fine when they weren’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We cleared the
air completely this morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know all
her secrets and she knows mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank
you for putting us in the position where we could be nothing but honest with
each other and reveal our scars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Goes to
show you what you can take for granted without realizing it.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He paused, looking at the picture of her on
the wall, smiling in the red sweater.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
will never do that again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor followed Jon’s gaze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He remembered his reaction to it and found himself asking, “Who took
that picture?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My brother Noah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Whom is she smiling at?” Victor asked even though he knew.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I was playing with Naomi, Noah’s three-year-old
daughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Roxy adores Naomi.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I love that picture,” Victor heard himself say,
quietly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he remembered that they
were in the middle of a serious conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“So does it matter to you when she
spends time with me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’d rather not know about it, but I’m sure that will be
impossible.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What if she needs to spend time with me when you’re
here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like that sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra is…passionate and insatiable.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon glared at him and cracked his knuckles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, are you trying to goad me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m just being real with you, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra and I do Motel Spin every week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">engage</i>…often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did she tell you that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s something you should know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I never asked.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, man to man—and I mean no disrespect—but Nedra is a
live wire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I shouldn’t have to tell you
this because I know that you know, but now that you are aware of the nature of
our relationship, I wouldn’t want it to taint yours.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m sure Roxy can go a week without a…motel visit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Of course she can.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor wondered how much longer she <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">could</i>
go, as it had already been over seven days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That aspect of their affair was a door not easily closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“If she needs to spend time with you, she will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She doesn’t have to lie to me, but a call or
text saying something innocuous will be okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I will deal.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Fair enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A few minutes passed before Jon spoke again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, if you do anything to cause Roxy
distress, I will kill you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can do it a
dozen different ways and not break a sweat nor be in the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So you make sure you do your part to keep her
happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s what matters to me; her
happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s the only reason why
you’re sitting there…you please her in a way that I simply am unable to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor emitted a chuckle with a snarky undertone and looked
Jon directly in the eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra’s more
agreeable to suggestion when she’s content.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon decided instantly he didn’t want to know what Victor
meant by the word ‘suggestion.’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guy
was a dick of the first order.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra entered the room with Victor’s beer and one for
herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She handed it to him and sat on
the couch next to Jon, but turned her gaze to Victor and smiled at him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re okay with this, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Of course,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I told you I wasn’t going anywhere, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to be in your life whether Jon is
cool with it or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I think things
will be a whole lot easier for you now that he knows.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra nodded and looked at Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She kissed his cheek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He cradled her free hand and kissed her fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re welcome.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put her beer on the table, got up and went towards
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She bent over his chair and
kissed his cheek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thank you,” she
whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt like the luckiest
girl in the universe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He looked into her eyes and nodded his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s been over a week,” he murmured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra nodded and whispered, “I know,” and returned to her
seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jon and I are getting married
sometime next week.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He told me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It won’t change anything.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra tucked her feet underneath her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are either of you hungry?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can order food.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon yawned and stood up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I need to get some sleep, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I haven’t had a good night’s rest in about four days.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra got up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are
you sure?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah,” he said, rubbing his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m starting to get a headache and my eyes
are burning.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re staying here tonight, right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m too tired
to ride.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go
to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll bring you some aspirin and
water.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon nodded and kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he turned to Victor and calmly said, “Victor.”
He extended a hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stood up and put his beer on the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took Jon’s hand and shook it. Without
warning, Jon punched Victor in the face and he hit the floor like a sack of
potatoes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good night, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">asshole</i>,”
Jon said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jon</i>!” Nedra
yelled and squatted next to Victor, who was laid out, unconscious. “Jon, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">what the fuck</i>???”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon shook out his hand and rubbed his knuckles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Believe me when I tell you he had it
coming.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra examined Victor’s face and rolled back his eyelids.
“You knocked him out!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe your
boyfriend will show some goddamn respect next time.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon went into the bedroom and closed the
door.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Three months later…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was talking to Jon on the phone as she walked from her
car to the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m glad you arrived
safely,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How long was the
flight?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“About 15 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
slept through most of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was daytime
when I arrived.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you feel any kind of way being back in Kabul?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes and no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was a
bit apprehensive at first, but it passed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m all right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra entered the building and took a short flight of
stairs, pulling out her key.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“As long as
you’re okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I am, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How are
things with you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How’s the lab coming
along?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stopped at the door and slid the key into the
lock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m good, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’ve finally began working on my new lab
spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they work steady, both areas
should be ready in six weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
electron microscopes will be arriving in eight weeks’ time, so they can’t dick
around on this schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin
assures me that everything will be.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She opened the door and entered the apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was nice and tidy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon continued. “Franklin isn’t stupid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He knows that there are other think tanks that are interested in you and
your research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He will do whatever it
takes to make you happy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra locked the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m not going anywhere, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At
least they haven’t given me a reason to consider leaving Baxter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He’s not stupid, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin won’t let you go without a fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have that effect on men.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra walked into the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was mostly dark, but a swath of moonlight
was enough to give her enough light to change clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m glad you’re okay, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m glad that you have the chance to make new
memories in Kabul; hopefully good ones. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I admit I was nervous about you accepting that
particular assignment, but if you’re fine, I’m fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m good, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Look, I know it’s after midnight and you just got off work, so I’ll let
you go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know you’re tired.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m glad you let me know that you arrived safely and your
head is in a good place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll talk to
you tomorrow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I love you,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Love you more,” she replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Bye.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra hung up and put the phone on the dresser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She began to undress, removing everything
except her USMC T-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As usual, she
folded her clothes and left them sitting on a chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She walked into the bathroom and turned on
the sink, grabbed her toothbrush and toothpaste, and began to brush her teeth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she washed her face and quickly twisted
her hair into four sections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
opened the drawer underneath the sink and grabbed one of her headscarves and
tied down her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She walked back into
the bedroom and got in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No sooner
than she got under the covers and turned on her side, he rolled over and spooned
behind her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She craned her neck to see
if he was awake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A half-hearted light snore was all she got in response.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra smiled and got right with her
pillows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor slid an arm around her
waist and under her shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He copped a
feel. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra opened her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Baby, are you awake?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” he murmured as he gently squeezed one of her breasts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes and murmured, “Okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She snuggled against him and let the sound of
his breathing lull her to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
didn’t take long, for she had had a long day in the lab and was thoroughly
exhausted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tomorrow Victor would give
her a massage, they would have an encounter, and then they would spend the day lounging in front of the
television.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> According to the weather reports, it was supposed to rain. She and Victor took advantage of rainy days.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Things were good between them, as they had been for the past
six weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was able to find a
satisfactory balance between her husband and her boyfriend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew that she was extremely fortunate (and lucky) that
Jon and Victor were willing to tolerate knowledge of each other if it made her
happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So she made sure that both men
got exactly what they needed from her and that they were as satisfied as she could make them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> As a result, Nedra was a very happy, very content woman.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra never worried about how long things
would last; there was no point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever
Victor decided he’d had enough of the situation, he’d leave her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Three weeks after Jon accepted her relationship with Victor,
Victor gave her keys to his place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was no pomp and circumstance, no critical pronouncements, no
declarations of love or any tomfoolery of the sort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He just handed her a ring with two keys and didn’t bother asking if she
would behave in kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A week later,
Nedra gave him a keycard for the garage and a key to her apartment.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Again, it was done with no announcements, proclamations or explanations; she simply stuck the keys in Victor's back pocket while kissing the back of his neck. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">They merged their lives almost seamlessly. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">And so it was.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">fin<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A/N:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this is where the Muse left me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I'm grateful she blessed me with a visit. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Am I satisfied with this ending? Somewhat, because I can’t see anything beyond
this point and to try and force it simply won’t work. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This fanfic is about
70,000 words, which is to say that it’s long enough. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">So this must be it. </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Hope you enjoyed the read, Dark
Dilettantes. I enjoyed the writing.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Forever in My Life” -Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He Loves Me” –Jill Scott<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The Perfect Drug” –Nine Inch Nails<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Passion” –Dionne Farris<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Anotherloverholenyourhead” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Killing Strangers” –Marilyn Manson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-22042875305266846142016-05-29T08:01:00.001-07:002016-06-05T09:33:15.989-07:00Lovesick (11/12)<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-10.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">11: Finding Balance</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was in her living room, where she’d been for the past
three days, curled up on her couch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
TV was on, but she had no idea what was showing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was just background noise that took the
edge off the deafening silence of her phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had not heard from Jon since she left his house and it was driving
her batshit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was terrified that she
was going to lose him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a good
man, not without his flaws or faults, but he was good enough that she loved him
and wanted to save their relationship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Did he still feel the same way?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The uncertainty of something that was once as
solid as granite and stronger than oak was freaking her out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was not one for tears, but within the
past three days, she’d cried an ocean of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She cried until her head hurt and her nose was clogged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hadn’t taken a shower in two days and
hadn’t bothered to untwist her hair or even remove her headscarf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d been drinking and binge-eating: four
empty wine bottles were on her coffee table and there were two open boxes of
chocolates and a giant bag of Doritos next to the bottles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three Haagen Dazs quart containers lined one
end of the table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The last time she engaged in such behavior was when she
learned that she lost Jon’s baby and would never be able to have another
one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The double blow shook her to her
core because she lost a child she did not know existed, and she and Jon had talked
about having a family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was sent
home to recuperate and get treatment at the VA hospital, and she spent two
weeks in a severe depression before getting herself together and sought
counseling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In time, she healed and she decided that when her last tour
was up, she would leave the Corps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
literally had nothing left to give, short of her own life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra ended her relationship with Jon in much
the same way; she just left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
couldn’t bear the thought of seeing him and being reminded of their baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no conversation, no discussion, and
no contact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After she was discharged, Nedra
simply packed up and moved to California.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra got up and went to the bathroom, ignoring her
reflection as she relieved herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On
her way back to the couch, she saw her phone light up with a text.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She ran to the couch and grabbed her
phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was Keria.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Are you all right,
Nedra?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
hadn’t called in or anything of the sort…better tell Keria something.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">I’m sick. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorry I didn’t inform
you earlier. What’s up?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nothing. Haven’t heard
from you. Just checking in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How bad?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stomach virus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll see you in a
few days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All is well in the lab?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorry to hear that.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to get some
rest, so text me if you need anything.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra held her phone and stared at the darkening screen, as
if trying to will Jon to contact her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her eyes itched and she lay back down, tossing the phone on the
table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She absently fiddled with the TV
remote when her phone rang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
grabbed it; it slipped through her fingers and hit the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She uttered a curse and reached down to get
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It wasn’t Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra blinked rapidly, as if
clearing her eyes and stared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she
answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What do you want, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I need to see you, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">No</i>,” Victor
replied, sternly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon came to my house.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“WHAT?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m ten minutes away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I need to talk to you in person.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Ten?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve seen you naked;
so don’t try to convince me otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ll see you soon.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hung up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra jumped up and immediately ran into her bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned on the shower and undressed as
fast as she could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took the fastest
bath possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she finished, she
didn’t bother to towel-dry, but grabbed her robe and put it on before retying
her headscarf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to clean up the
mess in her living room; she didn’t want Victor seeing evidence of her misery.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Apparently, her shower wasn’t fast enough, or Victor lied
about how close he was, as he was ringing her doorbell when she exited her
bedroom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Shit,” she muttered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then a moment later, she said, “Fuck it,” and went to the door to let
him in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He walked in and immediately noticed the mess in her living
room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra closed the door and
pretended not to notice him staring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Want something to drink?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” he said, walking into the living room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It looks like you’ve drunk enough for both
of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“If Jon was at your house, then you know good and damn well
I’m not.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She started gathering the
trash and Victor helped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It must have
gone well, because you’re one, alive, and two, don’t look like you got your ass
whipped by a 240-lb former Marine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor put wine bottles on the kitchen counter while Nedra
got a fresh trash bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he went back
into the living room to retrieve the half-eaten chocolate boxes and chips, he
said, “He wanted to do both, but didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had a long conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
honest with him, but truthfully, he should be asking you the questions he asked
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will mean more if <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> give him the answers he wants.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra began putting the garbage in the trash bin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He hasn’t contacted me since I picked him up
from the airport.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t hide the
sadness in her voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He may have
decided that he doesn’t need to contact me; he’s made his decision…maybe he’ll
leave me the way I left him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her voice
broke and she started crying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor put the candy on the counter and the chips on top of
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had never ever seen her cry and
it was just a bit too much for him to take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He walked over to her and hugged her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He didn’t know what to say, but then realized he didn’t have to say anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra buried her face in his neck and sobbed
in his arms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">All Victor could think about was if she’d ever cry over
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon wanted to know if Nedra loved
him, and he decided he needed to know it too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He rubbed her back, realizing that her robe was damp and she was naked
underneath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A week ago, they were in room
12 of the Motel Spin and he flat-out refused to fuck her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If Nedra made any indication that she felt
like having sex, he wouldn’t make the same mistake twice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He moved his hands to her ass because he simply couldn’t
help it; more than a week had passed since he’d had his hands on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was warm and smelled good and he got
aroused.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra’s tears soaked his shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her nose was clogged again and she
coughed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she looked at Victor, face
stained, eyes large and bright.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t
want him to leave me, Victor…but I don’t want to give you up, either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so fucking selfish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t deserve Jonathan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have—had a wonderful man who adored me and
took care of me and I’m going to lose him because I’m a greedy, horny
whore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you’re not going to
behave—that’s perfectly obvious—and I’ll probably lose you too because you’re
not about to put up with my bullshit…so maybe it is what I deserve.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He cupped her cheeks and kissed her forehead. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re not a whore, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You just know what you like.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I haven’t slept since I left him the other day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so tired, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know what to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I do,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’re going to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll stay
with you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if
Jon decides to come by?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Then he’ll come by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I made myself perfectly clear.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What did you tell him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That I’m not going anywhere.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra tried to pull away, but Victor was quick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put his arms around her and wouldn’t let
her go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I told him the truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not going anywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got too much invested in this to walk
away, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What did you think I would
say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I didn’t think you’d say anything at all because you’re
supposed to be invisible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unavailable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ghost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gone</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He</i> came to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t know how he got my address, but he did and was waiting for me
when I came home the day before yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I told you I would step back and I did. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Imagine my surprise when I see your big-ass
boyfriend outside my door.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What did he say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He needs to understand the kind of relationship we
have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I explained that it isn’t just
sex; that you and I are participants in a lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told him that you are in complete control;
I do what you allow me to and that I’ve never ever hurt you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told him to do some research.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t know how to respond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor leaned forward and grazed her cheek
with his beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he whispered in her
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He wants to know if you love me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Her voice was equally low, with an undercurrent of
fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Wh-what did you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor kissed the skin by her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I told him he had to ask you that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You put all this on me, didn’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor continued to whisper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Jon’s your business, remember?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And you are the only one who can give him the answers he seeks. ”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I will tell him anything he needs to hear if he contacts
me, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“But will you lie?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He kissed the skin just underneath her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Will you lie about your feelings for me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“If I thought lying would make everything right, I would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Jon and I never lie to each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s one thing to make that promise, quite
another to see it through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">will</i> tell him the truth.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor grabbed her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra felt his arousal and took a deep breath before continuing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I won’t lie, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor’s kisses went lower and Nedra moaned softly as he continued
to squeeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She loved his beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was fabulous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another whisper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Tell me first.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Huh?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell me how you feel about me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should know before he does, don’t you
think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Do you feel anything for me?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved her collar to one side and began
kissing her bare shoulder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yes…yes, Victor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
do, but I don’t know if it’s love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
I feel for you is different from my feelings for Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I care about you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You matter to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want to lose you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">His hands moved up her back and he continued to kiss her
neck and shoulders. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“As it should be, because
I’m not him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t want to let me go
and I won’t let you go…so what will you tell him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra choked back a sob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I don’t know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You smell so good,” he whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I shouldn’t have let you leave last week.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You have the right to do as you please, Victor…you didn’t
want me to use you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was pissed, but I understood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m selfish; it would serve me right if you
left me too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Her nipples were hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He put a hand on one of her breasts and thumbed one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Not ready to do that,” he whispered in her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But you should also know that Jon is trying
to make sense of it all to see if he decides that he loves you enough to accept
our relationship.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra put her hands on his cheeks and made him look at
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What did you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“He took his failure to satisfy your kinky needs personally.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A tear slid out of Nedra’s eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It isn’t his fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t let him carry that weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had I never met you; if I told Franklin that
I had other plans…if I’d just told you to fuck off instead of fucking you, none
of this would have happened.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor put a hand on the back of her neck and kissed her
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Maybe it was meant to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need what we have, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suppressing your desires only makes them more
powerful.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She yawned suddenly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m exhausted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Then come on,” he said, taking her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ll stay with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if Jon
comes, I’ll wake you up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra followed him to the bedroom and waited as he turned
back the covers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She got in bed and
watched as Victor removed his jacket and shoes and lay next to her, on top of
the covers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned to face him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Did he really say that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About trying
to decide if he loves you enough to accept this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I
can’t imagine it if he does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wouldn’t
even believe it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon’s exact words were: ‘I have to understand if it is even
remotely possible for me to be okay with this if it makes Nedra happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need her to be happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I owe her that.’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra scratched Victor’s beard before touching his
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How does that make you feel?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sharing you
with him if he’s cool with it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, I’m already doing that…he just didn’t know it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m fine with it, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want to give you up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll take you any way I can get you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes, warm from the inside out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor took one of her hands and rubbed it
against his moustache while kissing her palm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“He told me about what happened in Afghanistan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About the baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She sat up quickly, stunned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“HE DID?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Did you not want him to?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Why would he tell you
about that</i>???”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Honestly, it felt like he was talking to a therapist and
not to a rival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just let him unload.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He blames himself for what happened to you
and his way of compensating for your loss is to give you whatever you
want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if what you want is another
man who can do what he can’t, he has to find a way to accept that because he
feels he owes you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
forgave him years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t believe
he is still holding on to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was his
baby too, and it wasn’t like what happened was his fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He got shot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We don’t leave our people behind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yeah, I was hurt and angry, but I never truly blamed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I left Jon because I couldn’t bear to look at
him without thinking about the child we lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Had I not left, I would have ended up hating him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon didn’t deserve my hatred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time he found me in Pasadena, I was in
a better state of mind and I could love him once again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You really need to tell him that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I already did, ten years ago.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell him again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
want him to be okay with this, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m serious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You told me the night we met that I’d have a place in the
Promised Land that was all my own and he wouldn’t have access to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’d be my bad girl and proud to be so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seems to me like you already knew which way
you swung; Jon and I just have to get on board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So the question is, do
you really have room for both of us?” Did she inadvertently reveal a
subconscious truth that night?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The words slipped out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You asked me that night if there was…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">oh no!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to—<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">damn it!”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Apology accepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t require a verbal reply to that question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The outcome of this situation will be all the answer I need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t mention it again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She nodded and lay back down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her eyes were red from crying and there were
dark circles underneath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor knew she
was too tired to do anything more than kiss, and he wasn’t 100% sure she could
handle that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pulled the covers up and
kissed her lips again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go to sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you sure?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re the one who said you were exhausted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What will you do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t worry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know
how to occupy my time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m concerned
about you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never seen you like this
before.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s rare indeed for me to lose control, but my heart is at
stake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will do whatever Jon wants if
it makes him happy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Would you do the same for me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra imagined a Venn diagram and focused on the overlap
while yawning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go to
sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He got up and went to the kitchen to finish cleaning up the
mess she left in the living room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Afterwards, he sat down and turned on the TV while using his phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was content with how things were
progressing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon and Nedra knew where he
stood and the rest was up to them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
Jon did come by while he was there, he would leave so they could have some
privacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He then made the decision to
have the cameras removed from Jon’s house as soon as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor destroyed his copy of Nedra’s phone
several weeks ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no more
need to spy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had what he wanted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was early the next morning when Jon knocked on Nedra’s
door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He spent the past three days on
his Harley, riding upstate, thinking about everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stopped at a motel twice to get a few
hours’ sleep, do a little research, and take a shower, but other than that, he
rode. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of going back home when he
returned to the city, he went to Nedra’s apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t call ahead because he knew she
would be there, and he had a strong suspicion she wasn’t alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor von Doom was a first-class asshole and
Jon really wanted to knock the guy into next month, but he was brutally
honest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man was in love with
Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon knew that, even if Victor
didn’t recognize it as such.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon respected the fact that Victor refused to share intimate
details of their relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
meant he cared about—and would protect—Nedra’s reputation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t try to speak for her, but he made
it clear that he was going to remain in Nedra’s life whether Jon did or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So it was up to Jon to determine how things
would play out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">But did Nedra love Victor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If she did, Jon was not sure where that put him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra told him before she left that she loved
him, but did she really have the capacity to love both men the same?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could she be equally loyal to both?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could she maintain and compartmentalize
her feelings for each man? Was such a thing possible?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He was exhausted, but couldn’t rest until he talked to
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon knocked twice, and to his non-surprise,
Victor opened the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What are you doing here?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was pointless to ask, but he couldn’t help it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Taking care of Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What do you mean by that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor moved so that Jon could enter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“After our chat, I came over here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d been drinking and binge eating, and she
hadn’t slept since she left your house that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made her go to bed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon decided he didn’t want to know if Nedra went to bed by
herself, but apparently Victor saw the question on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She went to bed alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t like seeing her the way she was.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon removed his jacket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Well, as I’m sure you understand, I didn’t like seeing those bruises on
her arms and neck.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor elected not to respond to the latter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead he said, “She’s in the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She may still be asleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ll wait for her to wake up.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon walked into the living room and sat down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Then
I’ll leave you two alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon didn’t look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Thanks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor went in the direction of Nedra’s bedroom and
carefully opened the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was
sitting on the side of the bed, rubbing her neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned and looked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hi,” she said, sleepily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Good morning.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re still here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I wasn’t going to leave you, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not until I was sure you were okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But now you have another visitor, and I
should really get going.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed his
shoes and jacket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You call me when the
time is right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Who is it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stood up, tying her robe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her eyes lit up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He’s here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He just got here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You need to talk, and I don’t need to be here for that.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put on his jacket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you want me to send him back here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra rubbed her face with her fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor walked over to her and kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ll see you later.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gave
her a quick smile and walked out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few
moments later, Jon filled her doorway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra wanted to run to him and bury herself in his arms, but all she
could do was take one step towards him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another moment passed and they heard the front door open and close.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hello, Roxy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t realize she’d been holding her breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon hearing her nickname, she exhaled
loudly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jon, I’m so sorry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so sorry I hurt you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t mean to, and if you’ve made up your
mind about being with me—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I haven’t yet.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
entered the room and walked over to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There might have been two feet of space between them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I have to understand some things, but I
haven’t decided anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I love
you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t remember a time when
I didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What we have is good—was
good—and I don’t know if I want to throw it away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we have to talk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t worry about trying to spare my
feelings; just say what you need to say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I will do the same.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Her eyes were shiny with tears she wouldn’t let fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hugged herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another moment passed and Jon opened his arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra walked into his embrace and cried when
he put his arms around her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed
her eyes and listened to his heartbeat while sliding her arms around him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were like that for a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon let her cry and rubbed her back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt good to have her in his arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Did you get enough sleep?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I think so.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you hungry?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Not yet.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Come on, let’s lie on the bed.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon took her hand and led her to the
bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra lay down and Jon lay beside
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was tired but he wasn’t going to
sleep until this conversation took place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So he jumped right on in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell me…what do you and Victor do outside of sex?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know what we do, but is it the same with
him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Victor’s an introvert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t
go out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He mostly comes here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re both nerds; he talks about his work and
I talk about mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have interesting
theoretical discussions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He likes to
take baths with me, and he enjoys it when I wash his hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We order food from Sherpa’s because neither
of us can cook, and sometimes we watch TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We don’t do the things I do with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You and I are extroverted exhibitionists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor’s not a fan of people.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Do you love him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Not like I love you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How is it different?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Because you’re different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon, you are my rock, my heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You take care of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You protect
me and keep me safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want for
nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a history; one I
cherish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With Victor, it’s more about
filling in blanks, about completion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have always been interested in the bdsm lifestyle; I experimented with it
before I met you and discovered that it is something I really like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it isn’t something that you pop out with
on a first date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a relationship
built on trust, and that is not to say I don’t trust you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I desired it with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor recognized it and asked if it
was something I wanted, and suddenly I was presented with an opportunity that I
simply couldn’t turn down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I crave
submission, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My need to do so—having
been suppressed for so long—became overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor does exactly what I need him to do,
and he doesn’t go beyond the boundaries I set.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He takes care of me after our encounters, like a good Dom is supposed to
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know what that means, right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon said, “I do now.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For those three days, he spent time doing research right before going to
sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was so much to learn, but
he had a basic understanding of what she was talking about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t yet made up his mind if it scared
him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I know you don’t understand it all, Jon, but believe me
when I say that Victor has never, ever hurt me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It may sound crazy to you to know that he tied me up hard enough to
leave bruises, but it was something that I wanted and something he needed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why do you have a need to be tied up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why do you have a need to do those things you
do at the motel?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you make me
understand that, Roxy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is it about
you that you can let him…desecrate you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It's not desecration, Jon. Please understand that. In every other aspect of my life, I’m always in
control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been like that since I was
a teenager. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You allow me to control
things, and it’s instinctive for me to lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we have an encounter, I hand control over to Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make no decisions and am in charge of
nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t speak unless he wants
me to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He does everything that needs to
be done, and in doing so, does exactly what I need him to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So you’re saying that you need balance.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“In a manner of speaking.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What about…the motel stuff?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, we talked about that, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes I just want to be treated a certain
kind of way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes I feel sleazy and
want to be treated as such.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It turns me
on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gets me hot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like a dirty little secret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t help it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“When did that manifest in you, Roxy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were twenty when we met.” In Jon’s mind,
twenty was too young to have any real idea of one’s base nature. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It appeared he didn’t know his girlfriend as
well as he thought.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m not sure, because it’s always been there but unformed,
like pieces strewn about that make no sense on their own but once assembled,
the message is perfectly clear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it
was years before I revealed it to you, after we became a couple.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I didn’t understand,” he said, taking her hand. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I really didn’t understand, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought I did, but I had no clue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate that I don’t know you as well as I
thought.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He scratched his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“When we have sex; it’s good, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re satisfied…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">right</i>?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon had always been
about pleasing her first.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s excellent
because you’ve embraced some of my kinks and I’ve embraced yours, and we enjoy
each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t you dare sell yourself
short, Jonathan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you were bad in bed,
you would have known immediately and you would have never touched me again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You owned up that my drive is stronger than
yours, but yours isn’t weak by any stretch of the imagination.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Roxy, I simply can’t say the things you want me to say, or
put my hands on you out of anything other than love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want me to treat you like a cheap slut,
but you aren’t and I can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just
can’t.” It pained him to know that she got off on being treated that way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She kissed his fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I wish you could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I’m not a slut; I’m just a
woman who knows exactly what she likes and I own every bit of my sexuality.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I can’t,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It
wouldn’t feel right to me, and besides, if I hit you, I’ll hurt you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You wouldn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t believe that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon, is it remotely possible that you could accept this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Let’s assume that you could…what would have to happen in
order for you to be okay with Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Is he a good man?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What kind of man is he?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does he
have the ability to take care of you in the ways I can’t?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you feel when you’re with him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor has shown some instability in the past, but it had
everything to do with his research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is
good to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s a snarky asshole, but I
find that one of his more endearing characteristics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m as sarcastic as he is, which makes for
interesting conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s an
introvert; he prefers solitude when he’s not engaged in his research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But what he hasn’t experienced is intimacy;
the kind that comes so easy to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
I went to recruit him, he looked a mess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I couldn’t let him go back to work like that, so I cut his hair and
trimmed his beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He liked it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you intimate with him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I mean outside of sex.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He likes taking baths with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Showers too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I wash his hair and give him massages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor went three years without any physical contact, and my
understanding of him prior to that was that he was such an asshole that it kept
him from forming any real connections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So he formed one with me because I gave him something he needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Contact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He likes to touch me and be touched by me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Full disclosure: I encouraged him to find a
girlfriend, because there are plenty of women at Baxter he could choose from,
but he doesn’t want them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wants me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Roxy, I can’t fault him for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“My relationship with Victor is in contrast to our
relationship; like squares on a chess board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He doesn’t have the concerns you have, and I’m not trying to shame you,
Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m just telling you straight, as
you asked.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon nodded once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra kept talking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You take
good care of me, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told Victor that
you pay the rent and the note on my car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You cover the insurance, and you take care of maintenance when you come
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My financial needs are more than
met, and he’s aware of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Victor’s
a millionaire, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s got several
patents from stuff he’s invented, and he inherited money from his father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know that doesn’t impress me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you were wondering if he could do what you
do financially, the answer is yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, I don’t want that from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t need it from him, unless you up and decide you don’t want to pay
my way anymore—” She’d gotten quite used to Jon paying her bills and wasn’t
about to give that up if she didn’t have to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nonsense,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’re my lady and that is my job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Glad to hear he’s not broke and looking at you as a meal ticket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you feel when you’re with him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Satisfied. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Content.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Like my rough edges have been smoothed out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He makes me laugh, but in a different way
than you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s comforting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he spends the night, he holds on to
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understand his need and I
understand why he doesn’t want to let this go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s like me not wanting to let you go because of what you do for me;
how you make me feel.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How would you balance your time between us?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, Victor knows that he has to stay away when you come
home. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now if you decide to alter your
schedule so that you can be home more, then it will get a little tricky, but I
can do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t speak of it when I’m
with you and same with him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I appreciate his refusal to tell me anything about you or
what the two of you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He respects your
privacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He won’t start any rumors or do anything to
tarnish your reputation.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor isn’t petty like that, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nobody knows about us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We keep it private.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I need that to continue,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t be made a fool of, Roxy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I would never make a fool of you, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could I do that?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The very idea of it caused her physical pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Dumb shit happens sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just tell me if it does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have one more thing to address.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I never came right out and asked, but I have to know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before Afghanistan, we talked about getting
married and having a family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
Afghanistan, you didn’t want to get married anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I know why, but I want to hear it
from you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought we
went through this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“After Afghanistan, you said that you were content with our
relationship as is was, and that marriage can ruin relationships…but you didn’t
feel that way before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We talked about
having five or six kids—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You</i> talked about
having five or six kids, Jon.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The number she’d offered was
three.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“But afterwards, the idea of marriage repulsed you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it because we lost our baby?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra grabbed his hand and held it, closing her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She never allowed herself to entertain those
memories; they were too painful and she believed that she would never get over
the loss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prior to Afghanistan, Nedra
took for granted that she would become a mother whenever she wanted to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After Afghanistan…the reality check hurt like
hell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I wouldn’t have been able to give you what you wanted,
Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know how much you wanted to have kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I knew it was an expectation of your family that you have children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought that if I left you, you would be
able to meet a good woman, settle down and have some babies…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon pulled her into his arms and rolled on his back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra straddled him and caressed his
cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“…because I was damaged goods.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You actually think that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I thought it back then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took some time,
though.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nedra, I was heartsick when you left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to move on, but I couldn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are all I’ve ever wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, I wanted children, but only if you were
their mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t see anyone else
in that position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to but you’re
a hard act to follow.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He opened her
robe and fingered her scar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes,
Afghanistan changed a lot of things, but all it made me do was love you more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My father told me that I was a fool if I
didn’t go after you, and there was nothing wrong with being a kickass uncle.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra thought of Jon’s father and smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rich Holland was a no-nonsense retired naval
officer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon, will you leave me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do you want to?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is this too much
for you to take?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” he said, pulling her down and hugging her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Never.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So you have a side dude to scratch certain
itches, but you are mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
miserable without you before; I can’t imagine how much I’d hurt if I lost you
again, especially over something like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the grand scheme of things, Nedra’s desire
to be sexually fulfilled wasn’t something worth losing her over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon could deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would deal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t realize she was holding her breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was a remarkable man and she adored
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So…so you’ll accept my
relationship with Victor? You’ll be okay with it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Will you marry me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Wha-what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Will you marry me, Nedra Roxanne Nix?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that I have clarity of your state of
mind, I still want to marry you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t
have to have children, but I have always dreamed that you would be my wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does Victor want to get married and have a
family?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She thought briefly of Sue, whom Victor never mentioned
anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t think so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t have those kinds of conversations or
objectives.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Marry me, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
shouldn’t get in the way of your relationship with Victor, and I doubt if our
relationship will change much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
anything, it will evolve.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She kissed his lips, thinking about Victor saying the same
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So I can have Victor as long as
I’m your wife?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You can have Victor even if you don’t want to be my
wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I want you to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve thought about it for the past year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can have a small, private ceremony and
honeymoon somewhere fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bali, Maldives,
Hong Kong…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you going to alter your work schedule?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’d like to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do
want to be home more, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do miss
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as I’m concerned, I’m
discussing things that relate to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">us</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You and Victor will figure out where he fits in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her heart
was so full she thought it would burst.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She loved him so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jonathan Samuel Holland, I
will marry you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jon cupped her cheeks and kissed her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After several minutes of kissing and
canoodling, Jon said, “I guess you’d better call Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Criminal” –Fiona Apple<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Cry For You” -Jodeci<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’d Rather Be With You” –Bootsy Collins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“If I Was Your Girlfriend” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Alone” –Colin Newman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Blue” –Nina Simone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/06/lovesick-1212.html" target="_blank">next</a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-89008893756297659632016-05-23T02:42:00.000-07:002016-05-29T08:03:50.173-07:00Lovesick (10/12)<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-9.html" target="_blank">Previous</a><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">10: Uneasy
Conversation</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There was a Motel Spin about 12 miles away from the Baxter
Building, tucked in between locations easily overlooked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the one Nedra and Victor used most
often; they would meet after his workday ended and before hers began and spend
two hours rutting like animals or engaging in acts of shameless
debauchery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was a fan of rough sex
and dirty talk, and being in a trash-ass motel brought those characteristics
screaming to the forefront.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She encouraged
Victor to call her names and the first time he was hesitant, but then she
slapped him across the face hard enough to split his lip and he called her a
bitch before he realized what he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was a most unusual circumstance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s right,” she encouraged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Right here, right now in room 12 of the
Motel Spin, I’m a sneaky, dirty ass bitch and a filthy slut, and I deserve to
be punished…are you man enough?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
she backhanded him hard enough that he almost fell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are you man enough, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">After that, he had no problems calling her all kinds of
names and allowing all kinds of filthy descriptors to flow out of his mouth
like a river of garbage; stuff he never thought he’d ever say to a woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise, she countered with her own brand of
trash talk, goading him to acts and climaxes that were unbelievable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes she let him slap her around, but he
never hit her hard enough to bruise—he wasn’t stupid—but it was a trigger for
her and they would actually fight sometimes before having sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her comment about Jon’s fear of hurting her
made a lot more sense once Victor understood the depths Nedra was willing to
sink to for her own hedonistic pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She let him climax all over her; his favorite place was her stomach (to
her surprise; she expected him to prefer her ass), and they always took a quick
shower when it was over and went their separate ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor arrived before she did, and lay on the bed, drinking
a Heineken while watching shitty-ass cable TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Saturday was four days away and he was expected to go ghost when that
day came, but he wasn’t sure he could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He wasn’t sure if Nedra wanted him to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Too much had happened between them since the Shanghai trip, and while
sex was the foundation, far more had been built on top of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His mind was filled with questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He expected to get no answers to some of
them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra walked in, carrying a shoulder bag that contained a
change of clothes and a bath bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wore a well-worn denim miniskirt and an equally worn Semper Fi T-shirt that had
been converted into a halter at some point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her hair was in two giant puffs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She closed the door and put her bag in the empty chair before smiling at
him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Hey.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Hey,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Normally, they would have been all over each other at this
point, but the vibe was different today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor had the TV on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The TV was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never</i> on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Something wrong?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re watching TV.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“More like it’s watching me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra walked over to the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What’s the matter?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor put the bottle on the nightstand and took her arm,
pulling her on top of him before rolling her off to the side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She smiled at him and scratched his
beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are you okay?”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m fine,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Just not in the mood for our usual shenanigans.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh dear,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“That’s not good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What happened?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon’s coming home,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m expected to disappear that day.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s
the plan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He put a hand on her cheek and rubbed her lips with his
thumb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Victor, we’ve already talked about this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is it that easy for you, Nedra?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He continued to rub her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is it so easy for you to shift gears and
pretend you won’t long for me while he’s here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s
not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially after...well, you
know.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put a hand on her
throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But we both knew the day would
come and we both knew who I’d choose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
we both have to deal.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re not losing anything,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You have me and you have him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m the one who has to go without for however
long he’s here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">don’t</i> have you
when he’s here, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m giving up a
lot in this too and I got a lot of feelings about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You and I…we’re fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fires eventually go out, however.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We’re more than that,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You know it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re glossing over the truth because it’s easier to pretend that it’s
just sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You love him but you have
feelings for me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His thumb went round
and round and round.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put her hand over his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, I don’t want to talk about this
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s why we come to this place, remember? Come
on now, don’t hold back on me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
began unfastening his belt, but he grabbed her hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know you like it when I treat you like a whore within
these walls, but I don’t like it when you treat me like one when we’re not
here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know what I agreed to, but frankly
I’ve changed my mind.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor! You can’t do that!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why the fuck not?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Because I explained everything and you agreed to it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t renege now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Actually, I can.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra whined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“No!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come on, quit playing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to be at work in two hours and I
really need you to bend me over.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
went for his belt again and he actually slapped her hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sat up and looked down at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re serious?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’d deny me? And yourself?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She whined again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
couldn’t help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was horny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">WHY</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Because you need to own up to this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want me to go away so you can love him in
peace, but there are things he can’t give you that you need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You would not let me do all the things that I
do if you didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He probably finds your
dirty inclinations distasteful and therefore can’t acknowledge them no matter
what you say and no matter how you feel about each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I, on the other hand, will go as far and as
low and as deep as you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t
treat me like a light switch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t
allow it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Victor, please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s just have sex, ok? Don’t be difficult.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor put a hand on her stomach and fingered her scar. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Look at it like this: I’ll back off, but
only superficially.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s see how long
you can go without making some form of contact with me while he’s here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bet you won’t be able to stay away from me,
no matter how much you love him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
so much as send me a text message or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">accidentally</i>
call…” he made quotation marks with his fingers, “then you’re going to have to
figure out how to explain me to him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re being unfair, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m being fair to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I deserve better, don’t you think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra moved and sat on the edge of the bed, her back to
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve always thought so.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So there you have it, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want me to vanish, but all I’ll do is
step back just a little…and wait for you to contact me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know you will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This thing
between us is as taut as a bow string.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She stood up and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So…is it safe to assume that we won’t be fucking
today?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m good,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
really didn’t feel like it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Okay
then.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She got up, grabbed her bag, and
pulled out a change of clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
whole point of the outfit she currently wore was easy access, as Victor had a
CFNM fetish he liked to indulge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
removed the skirt and put on a pair of dark blue jeans and swapped her
halter-top for a blue long-sleeved T-shirt that covered her wrists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a matching scarf to wear around her
neck to cover the bruises.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How are you going to explain those?” Victor asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll figure something out,” she said, unable to keep the
snark out of her tone while adjusting her attire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was angry because she wanted Victor to
give her a good hard fuck before what was going to a long day at work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You don’t need to concern yourself with
that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor kept his smile on the low.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was furious and it showed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He watched her fluff her hair and pack up her
bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra slung the bag over her
shoulder and walked towards the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor picked up his Heineken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She turned and gave him a vicious side-eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“If you don’t like what I’m saying, then prove me
wrong.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took a long drink and raised
the bottle to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Can</i> you stay away from me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She glared at Victor and slammed the door on her way out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was at the airport, waiting for Jon’s plane to
arrive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was sitting in a coffee shop
at the terminal, sipping a cappuccino and thinking about the past week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One thing was for sure: she and Jon needed to
have a serious conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was
correct in his understanding of Jon’s feelings about her sexual proclivities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t like them; he found the idea of
desecrating her distasteful and repulsive. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon understood she had particular kinks that
he couldn’t satisfy, but he would go above and beyond to please her in every
other way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They never spoke of it again
and Nedra was content with their relationship as it was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then she had to go and meet Victor von Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A man she was deeply attracted to; a man she
had feelings for; a man who understood her base desires and met her at the
level she required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She happily gave
over control of her body to him and did not regret doing so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because of Victor, she was learning more and
more about her limits and boundaries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
trust in him was as strong as her trust in Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Did he trust her? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra didn’t think so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He bared his soul to her that night he bound
her and ordered her to do no more than think about everything he confessed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was still thinking about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could he trust her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d been nothing but honest with him…except
she never shared her feelings with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But she trusted him and he had to know that was significant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hadn’t seen him since she left him at the
motel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra spent the past three days
immersed in her work, working additional hours to keep her mind occupied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she missed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It irked her that she missed him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She saw Jon coming out of Baggage Claim and got up to go to
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A smile broke across his face when
he saw her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They embraced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra closed her eyes and inhaled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon always smelled good and it was always
wonderful to be in his arms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jonathan,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Roxy,” he replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She kissed him and he grabbed her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the kiss broke, she rubbed his
cheek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You got your stuff?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">As they were driving home, Nedra looked over at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So baby, what’s going on?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
miss you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kosovo took longer than I
thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It frustrates me when that
happens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It got me to thinking about
making some changes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You want to leave Titan?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Titan was the corporation he worked for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No; just change my assignments so that I’m not overseas so
damn much.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Will they allow that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I haven’t talked with any of my supervisors yet because I
want us to discuss it first.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon, if you want to change your schedule, it’s all right
with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just don’t want you to leave
the job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve been with them since you
retired and I know how much you love doing what you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That, and all the money you make.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Frankly, you’ve spoiled me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon chuckled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Then
I’m doing everything I’m supposed to do, but I’m tired of being away from you
so much, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Six months out of the
year…?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s too much.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon, it’s never been a problem before…unless you’ve never
said anything about it prior to this week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I mean, we’ve always had an understanding about your schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before you retired, I saw you less than
that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know,” he said, reaching over to take her hand. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I just want to be with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that you work all the time and keep
crazy hours and your research keeps you busy, but wouldn’t you like it if I
were home more often?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She laced her fingers with his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course! But what will you do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know you get bored easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not changing my schedule, but then again I’m
always here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll figure it out.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon looked over at her for a long moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was something different about her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He first noticed it in the airport, but she
was in his arms so fast that he didn’t have a chance to remark on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’ll figure it out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A little while later, they were at Jon’s house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day before, Nedra sent a maid service to
clean up and she bought groceries and opened up the house so that it would be fresh
and ready when he got home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went to
take a shower and she ordered food from Sherpa’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew there was more to what Jon said, and
she also needed to tell him some things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But she didn’t know how to broach the subject, or even if she should do
it this night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the food came, she
set it up in the kitchen and got a Corona out of the fridge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon came out, dressed in a T-shirt and
sweats, smiling at her as she fixed his plate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that a double bacon cheeseburger from Cleve’s?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And a loaded baked potato.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And a slab of lemon pound cake.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You spoil me, woman,” he said, sitting down and opening the
Corona.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra sat next to him and plated
her own food: a single bacon cheeseburger and steak fries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She also ordered a large salted caramel shake
because even though Cleve’s had the best hand-scooped milkshakes this side of
town, she rarely indulged.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She noticed that Jon kept looking at her as they ate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“There’s something different about you, Roxy,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s a light in your eyes, something
that’s given you a glow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra took that moment to take a sip of shake so she could
think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she swallowed, she said,
“I’m just happy to see you, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I miss
you too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m lonely when you’re not
here.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least she was before she
became involved with Victor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not
saying you don’t, but this is something different.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took a bite of his burger and stared at
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, I’m not sure what you’re seeing,” she said, “but if
you see a glow, it’s because I ordered my electron microscopes a couple of days
ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Super-geeked about it too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Franklin told me that I was going to get
the laboratory space I asked for.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
was true.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m
glad to hear that.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took a bite of
baked potato and the meal continued in comfortable silence, but Nedra noticed
he kept looking at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did the bruises
on her neck show?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wore a scarf and
her sleeves covered her wrists, but had they slipped and revealed the marks?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she realized it didn’t matter because
she was spending the night with him and he was going to see all of her bruises
and she needed to have an explanation ready. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">To her surprise, he said, “Have you seen that guy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one that followed you to China?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Funny that you ask,” she said, sipping her shake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s a mechanical engineer with two or three PhDs in his back pocket,
and he’s been advising me on the equipment I want to purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s also helping me design the new lab
spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man is a genius and he knows
things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s pretty damned useful.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right,” Jon said, looking at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Frankly, I believe he’s been so helpful because of what he
did in China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After you left, I went off
on him and he was apologetic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I think
this is his way of making things right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So you’ve had regular contact with him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“On and off, yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s got his own research, so he’s really busy, but he stops by the lab
from time to time to offer his advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He saved me from purchasing defective equipment.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Has he come on to you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon, what’s with the questions?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Answer that one and I’ll answer yours.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I knew he would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
what happened?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jonathan…what is going on in your head?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What happened, Roxy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Did you send him on his way like you said?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes and rubbed her temples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lying to Jon wasn’t something she did, but
she did not know what was going on in his mind and she could not read his
expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If she lied, he would
know…and their relationship might not survive it. But would it survive the
truth?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Best to be honest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I tried to, but you were
right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s too strong, and he’s
difficult to manipulate.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra stood up and grabbed his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Come with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you really want
to have this conversation, then we will have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But there is something you’re going to see
soon enough, and I may as well show you now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You won’t like it, but if I can make you understand it…maybe you’ll have
some peace.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He followed her to the bedroom and turned on the lights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sit down,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sat on the edge of the bed and Nedra stood
in front of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quietly she removed her
scarf and the sweater.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon stared at the
bruises on her neck and arms and looked up at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra, what in the hell happened?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who did that to you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Was it
him? I’m going to fucking rip his goddamned head off!!”</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon jumped to his feet and Nedra grabbed his
arm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No you won’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me
talk and please listen, and then you can speak when you have all the
information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have agonized over how to
bring this up, but may as well just spit it out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sit back down, baby.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She caressed his cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just know that I love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love you so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That won’t ever change.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tell me,” he said, closing his eyes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sat back down. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put the sweater back on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You were right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t give up or let it go. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I slept with him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor is tenacious and I acknowledged that I
found him attractive, so there came a point where it was extremely hard for me
to fight him off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He appeals to me in
a…ummm…he appeals to my base needs and I gave in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor…” she sighed, “…does the things that
you don’t care for, and once I crossed that line it became difficult to cross
back over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scars…I allowed him to do
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t hurt me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never has.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How many times?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How many times what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How many times did you let him tie you up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s what he did, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tied you up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How in the hell did you get that bruise on your neck?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did he put a rope around it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put her hands behind her back and linked her fingers
to keep from fidgeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Twice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have a collar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was my first time using
it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon’s hands were on his knees and they rolled into
fists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra continued to speak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I slept with him more than once, but if you
ask me for a number, I can’t give it to you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon’s eyes were still closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra heard him taking deep breaths.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said, “Do you love him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra took a deep breath of her own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I developed some feelings for him because what
we did was very intense and it evokes raw emotion that defies description, and
he helped me figure some things out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
he’s not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not in love with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like him very much and he really is a
fascinating man, but I love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s
keenly aware of that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you feel when you’re with him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, he’s a prodigy in three disciplines and we’ve had
some fantastic theoretical conversations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s passionate about his work and the things he wants, and he’s
funny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I enjoy being around him at
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel a measure of satisfaction
because he’s able to give me what I need; what I can’t get from…um, anywhere
else.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra, you know I’m not into that sort of thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I guess I underestimated how into it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t know that neglecting that part of you would bring us <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">here</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Neither did I, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t plan this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I
certainly wouldn’t deliberately hurt you, but I’m not going to lie to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You please me in so many ways and I was
satisfied for a very long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t
want for anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, I had the yearnings
and the kinks, but I could suppress them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I can’t do that anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
can’t.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon opened his eyes and looked at Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Part of me desperately wants to know exactly
what he did and part of me can’t bear to hear it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You let him tie you up hard enough to leave
bruises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dear God, what else did you let
him do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How far down the rabbit hole
have you gone?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could he even compete?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you actually asking or just thinking out loud?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t know,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll tell you one more thing and then you have to decide if
you want to know the rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You won’t
like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You won’t understand it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re going to hate me or at least be
disgusted with me…and maybe you’ll decide that you don’t want to love a woman
who can allow a man such liberties.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon took a shaky breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We go to a motel sometimes…usually once a week.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon collapsed on the bed and put his hands over his
face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">GOD, NEDRA!!!</i>”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Thin tears slid down her cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I told you,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“FUCKING HELL!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">YOU LET HIM</i>…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">DO THAT?!”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her voice
lowered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes me feel a different kind of sexy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish that it didn’t bother you so much
because I would love it if you did it…if you had it in you to…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I didn’t realize,” he said, hands still covering his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really</i>
underestimated your needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I fucked that
up…and here we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have another man
in your life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want you to feel bad about this, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i>
fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I let Victor in and now I can’t
get rid of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s my fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You didn’t do anything wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon sat back up and stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra wanted to go to him, cup his face and
shower it with kisses, but she was scared to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His expression was unreadable and she didn’t
believe he would accept any kind of comfort from her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” he said, “I didn’t keep up my end of the deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made a promise and I didn’t keep it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I became complacent and I made the assumption
that you were content.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to own my
part in this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jonathan, don’t say that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s not true!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve done
everything you said you would do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve
done right by me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is my fault!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mine</i>!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m being extremely selfish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I’m</i>
the cause of your pain, so please direct your rage at me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon stared at her and Nedra hated herself for the look she
saw in his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shame burned her face
and she turned away, unable to handle the agony in his expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I should go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
need to process this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would never
deliberately hurt you, but lying to you would have been a thousand times worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call me tomorrow if you want, and we can
discuss it some more if you want to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or
if you don’t...okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon put his head in his hands and said nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra walked towards him and put a hand on
the back of his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He recoiled and
she jumped back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she turned and walked
towards the bedroom door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ll
understand if you don’t want to talk to me tomorrow or the next day, but please
don’t shut me out, Jonathan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love
you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He didn’t move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
sighed softly and left the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
quickly cleaned up the kitchen, grabbed her purse and left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he made the decision to end their
relationship, she was going to be devastated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was walking towards his apartment building, deep in
thought when he heard someone call his name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He looked around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a
Harley-Davidson Softail parked next to the fence and a guy was standing by
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stopped walking when he
realized who it was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man started
walking towards him and two thoughts popped immediately to mind: flight or
fight?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor wasn’t known for running,
but physically he wasn’t a match for Nedra’s big ox of a boyfriend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That didn’t mean he didn’t stand a chance in
a fight if one occurred; he could defend himself and he was a strategist, if
nothing else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon’s expression was blank as he stood in front of Victor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you want?” Victor asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
not even sure why I decided to come here.” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But here I am.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We have nothing to discuss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh yes we do,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We have quite a bit to discuss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that so?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know good and goddamn well what this is about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know you’re involved with Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right?” Victor said, staring at the larger
man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t scared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Let’s not play games,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She already owned up to it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor remained calm; he already knew about it from his
video feed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And…?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">want</i> to do
is beat your ass all over this parking lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What I’d <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">like</i> to do is snap
your neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But…that wouldn’t be right,
and it wouldn’t solve anything.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor cocked his head to the side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You don’t think I’m just going to stand here
and let you beat my ass?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You got the
wrong one, good sir.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’ve had your hands all over my woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know her in a way that I’m very
uncomfortable with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve done things
with her, to her…and…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I detect no lies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon’s hands were in fists and Victor warily took a step
back, thinking about going on the offense within the next three seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he caught Jon off guard, that would give
him an advantage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m not going to hit you.” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Although it would make me feel a whole lot
better, this isn’t your fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s Roxy’s
and mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s what sickens me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“If you didn’t come here to fight, then what are we
doing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know everything…or do you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What did Nedra tell you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon put his hands inside his pockets to keep them from
forming fists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He really wanted to lay
the man out, but…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She said you were persistent…and then the time came when
she couldn’t resist.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s true,” Victor said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“But you shouldn’t have been surprised to hear it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw it in
your eyes when we were in China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
all over you like a scent. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You wanted
her and you didn’t stop until you got her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My existence didn’t matter to you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Still don’t,” Victor said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“But what is it that you want me to say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What is it that you came all this way for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An apology?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To hear me say that I’ll back off and leave her alone?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nope, can’t do that, and I’m <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> sorry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra is an unusual, amazing woman.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you in love with her?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I feel something for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not sure if it’s love, as I have no point of reference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it’s strong, it’s powerful, and it isn’t
something I’m willing to give up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
makes me feel things; she makes me want things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So if you expect me to let <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>
go, you’re crazy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon stood there for a long moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor couldn’t read him, but he was tired of
standing outside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Look, come on in and have a beer or something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are obviously in your feelings and you
need to speak on them, but the words aren’t coming and I don’t want to stand
out here all night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor unlocked his door and walked in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon followed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor motioned for him to go up the stairs and he followed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t know if Jon was carrying, but he
wasn’t about to get got.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ever cautious, he opened the door and moved
so that Jon could enter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor pointed at a chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Have a seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you carrying?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
opened his jacket and did a 360 to show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He lifted both pant legs and Victor was reasonably satisfied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nothing in your jacket?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t own a gun small enough to fit in these
pockets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not armed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I were, I would have shot you on
sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I need to understand…all
this…and killing you won’t give me the answers I seek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though it would make me feel better.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you want a beer?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor sat down at his desk and glanced at his security
cam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What is it that you need to
understand?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What are you to her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What does she see in you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ll have to ask her that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She said that you fill in the blanks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Blanks you left,” Victor replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Blanks she needs to have filled.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon sat in the chair and put his hands on his knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m not sure if I want to know the
details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She mentioned one of them
and…and…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What did she tell you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The motel thing.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon gripped his knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Weekly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you sure you want to hear this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because it looks like you don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe you need to start by telling me what
you expect from this conversation and what it is you think you can get out of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What Nedra and I do is between us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If she chooses to tell you things, that’s on
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But you won’t get any juicy details
from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s repeatedly told me that
you were her business, and as far as I’m concerned, you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So if you feel a kind of way about what’s
happened between her and me, she’s the keeper of the answers you seek.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked at Victor and Victor was finally able to read one
or two expressions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man looked
thoughtful…and not angry at all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You won’t tell me anything?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s nobody’s
business what we do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like I don’t
ask about what you two do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And to be
fair, she’s never offered any information on that subject.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the whitest of lies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Who are you?” Jon asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My name is Victor von Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m from Latveria, and I’m a mechanical engineer at Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m 33, I live here, and that’s basically it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a simple man and I lead a fairly simple
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My research takes up a great deal
of my time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She said you were a crazy genius with multiple PhDs and you
were helping her with her lab.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I am all of that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And there is nothing I can say or do—short of murdering
you—that will make you leave her alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure you don’t
want a beer or something?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon merely stared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After a moment, he said, “No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you going to leave her?” Victor asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon was silent for a long moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor waited patiently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man was full of emotions that he could
barely contain; that much Victor could see.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I met Roxy shortly after she enlisted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was such a funny badass and we became
friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any woman who can handle
herself with a multitude of weapons including her fists is a woman I want in my
life, friend or otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was so
competitive, but she had a good heart and a fiery spirit I adored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She made me laugh, made me think, inspired me
to be better and do better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know
when I fell in love with her, but I did and I fell hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She made it so easy and I couldn’t help
myself, especially once she owned up to her feelings for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor listened intently, wondering if Nedra would ever give
him the same courtesy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon continued to
talk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“During our tour in Afghanistan, we saw combat and I got
shot in the leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She came back to help
me and I remember an explosion nearby and her falling down, holding her stomach.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She tried to get up, but she couldn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I managed to get to my feet and drag her out
of harm’s way, and then some members of our squad found us and got us to
safety.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor remained quiet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon rubbed his hands together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We talked about getting married at some
point and having two or three kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
come from a large family and I wanted one with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t until later, after we came home
that I found out that Roxy was pregnant and the shrapnel she took injured her uterus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to have a hysterectomy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t know she was pregnant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she found out that our child did not
survive the injury, and she wouldn’t be able to have another one, she left the
Corps and she left me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was my
fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got shot and she came back for
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had I been a little more attentive
to my surroundings, I wouldn’t have taken a bullet and she wouldn’t have had to
try and save me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
as if Jon were talking to a therapist or someone other than him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But now he knew the real reason behind the
scar that disfigured her belly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever they had sex
in the motel, he would pull out and remove the condom before jerking all over
her stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the very beginning,
her scar fascinated him, but she told him that it wasn’t something she wanted
to discuss and so he never brought it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He understood why, now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I tried to move on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I continued to serve and move up in rank, completed my assignments and
buried myself in the Corps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to
date other women when circumstances allowed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I tried to figure out what a life without Nedra would be like and
eventually I realized that there was not one scenario which existed that
included me being happy without her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
about two or three years after she was discharged, I searched for her and found
her at Cal Tech.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time apart gave her
clarity and I begged her forgiveness. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
told her that if she would have me back, I would see to it that she never
wanted for anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promised her that
I would never let anything happen to her and that I would protect her above all
else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She took me back and we’ve been together ever since.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only thing that changed was that she no
longer wanted to get married.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
kept my end of the bargain, or so I thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m in your house right now because I failed to give Nedra everything
she needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m here because I didn’t really
understand those needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sitting here
because you know her in a way that I don’t, and it is not a way I am capable of
or comfortable with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m here because I have
to understand if it is even remotely possible for me to be okay with…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>…if it makes Nedra happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need her to be happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I owe her that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor listened carefully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I need to know who you are, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to know the man whom Nedra trusts
enough that she allows him certain liberties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I need to know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon, if you’re worried about me hurting her—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I swear to God if you do, I will skin you alive and cut
your fucking head off. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promise you
that if you cause her to lose an eyelash she wasn’t supposed to lose, I will
happily murder you and dispose of your body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know how, believe me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So who the
hell are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Before I answer that, I have to know one thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Have you ever made her feel bad about having those
particular needs?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t recall ever shaming her, but I may have without
realizing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did ask me to do the
motel thing, but I couldn’t bring myself to act the way she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn’t do the things she asked me to, and
in not doing so, I left some slack...and took for granted that she was content
with our relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never imagined
that there would be another man who would pick up the slack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was wrong.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor said, “I met a woman who I found quite appealing, and
I wanted her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you that I wanted
her the moment she walked in my door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
since I’m used to getting my way, I didn’t stop until I got what I wanted. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She asked me how I felt about certain things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just so happens that I appreciate the
lifestyle and could give her what she wanted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Lifestyle?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re caught up with the sex aspect, but it’s not just about
sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a lifestyle that many people
engage in; a lifestyle I imagine Nedra had some experience with before she
became involved with you, because she knows exactly what she wants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are protocols in place that responsible
partners adhere to in order to ensure safety while obtaining pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, I do whatever I want within the
parameters Nedra sets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is she who
tells me how far I can go, and if she does not like what I do, we stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You really should do some research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you really should talk to Nedra, because
some of what I’m saying may be more palatable to you coming from her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon’s head hurt, as if it was being pumped full of information
and imagery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The images of Victor tying
her up and doing the things she wanted were overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I have a headache,” he said, standing
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I need to leave.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“There’s something you should know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was insistent that I not contact her
whenever you come home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has
reassured me more than once that she loves you and that you are entitled to her
full attention when you’re here. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had
to agree to those terms.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked at him, taking it in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s more important for me to know if she loves
you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I can’t answer that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’ll have to ask her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But did
you get what you came for?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I still don’t know who you are.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You should get that information from Nedra as well, and
then I can fill in the blanks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I can
assure you that I have not and will not hurt her.” Physically, he was sure of
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emotionally, he wasn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Jon needed some peace of mind and Victor
wanted the man to leave in a good place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This isn’t over,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We will talk again, and soon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know where I live,” Victor replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tainted Love” –Gloria Jones<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Scandalous” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I Feel for You” –Chaka Khan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Straight Up” –Paula Abdul<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Need You Tonight” –INXS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-1112.html" target="_blank">next</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-75482412091293295652016-05-16T06:15:00.000-07:002016-05-23T02:42:46.173-07:00Lovesick (9/?)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-8.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">9: Resonance<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was raining hard outside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Inside, music was playing, as was the case when they were hanging out in
her house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor preferred coming to
Nedra’s apartment, as it was far more comfortable than his place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t have a problem driving the hour it
took to get there, for it was always worth it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra’s home was warm, inviting and she made concessions for his
frequent visits; there were certain foods and other items she kept on hand for
his consumption and use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They agreed to
take tonight off, as Victor wanted to engineer a particular encounter with
Nedra; one he’d been planning ever since they agreed to take their relationship
to the next level. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was in her workout room, fetishized according to
Victor’s wants: done up in a red two-piece latex outfit; a halter and a piece
of a skirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wore fishnets and red
patent stilettos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her arms were bound
behind her back and secured to her pole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor had her blindfolded with one of her silk scarves, and there was a
collar around her neck that affixed her head to the pole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a ball gag in her mouth and couldn’t
move anything above her waist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took
Victor an hour to get her ready and trussed up on the pole, as he insisted on
blindfolding her first and then dressing her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She remained calm throughout, even as he tied her up and to the
pole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last thing he put on was the
ball gag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t tight; she could
push it out and call the safe word if she wanted to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it remained between her lips; there was
the barest hint of her teeth on the top of the ball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had a tiny gap between her two front
teeth and Victor loved it masked by the ball.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She stood there in silence and Victor stood in front in her,
naked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took several pictures of her
and informed her he was doing so, assuring her that they were for his private
collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra, of course, was unable
to reply, but it didn’t matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
stood like this for what felt like hours for her, but minutes for him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He had a silk whip in his hands, but wasn’t exactly sure
what he was going to do with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
now, he just walked carefully and quietly around the pole, staring at her from
every angle; aching in mind, body and soul for what this represented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t move, couldn’t speak, and
couldn’t do anything without his permission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra was totally and completely at his mercy, and he was raw about
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were words he wanted to use on
her, to her; words that died in his throat whenever she tossed him a side eye
or a snarky comment…words that couldn’t find voice, meaning or mark when she
was…<i>unbound</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Their affair was three weeks old at this point, and not one
went by without some sort of engagement, especially trips to random motels in
and around the city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She let him
finger-fuck her while she drove like a maniac at the abandoned runway; he
recalled having all four fingers buried inside her jeans and her laughing and squirting
uncontrollably at 170 miles per hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After braking, she jumped into the passenger’s seat, he opened the door,
and they fucked like rabbits before driving to a nearby Motel Spin to continue
fucking.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really</i>
liked their motel encounters; the sleazier, the better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra didn’t know about him, but she was
having a blast with their affair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
took comfort in the fact that she kept a smile on Victor’s face whenever they
were merely together and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> having
sex.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra remained content to let Victor dictate the encounters;
she had never once expressed distress or dismay, or used the safe word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She never questioned his methods, motives, or
madness…she submitted to the man so easily that sometimes, in her secret heart,
she had to question a few things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While she was left physically strained and uncomfortable sometimes,
Victor would care for her sore limbs and muscles until she hurt no more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had tied her up before, but he had never
dared to bind her like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stood
perfectly still, unbothered, unworried, her trust in him unwavering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was something here he needed, something
buried in her being bound that he had to address.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She recognized that much, even if she didn’t
understand it all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The room was cool enough to make her nipples hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He, on the other had, was burning up and felt
like the only way he could get comfortable was to remove his clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being naked before her felt right. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stepped close to her, pressing his chest
against hers and remained perfectly still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra shifted her focus to the immediate stimulus, taking in his warmth
but then she felt it…the rapid fluttering of his heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put his arms around her, not touching her,
but gripping the pole between her elbows and hands and pressed harder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He watched her swallow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She shifted her feet, but a quick pop with the whip and she was back in
formation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor felt exposed, emotions out on display for the all the world to
see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was not everyone, just her…but there
were many days when it felt like she <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i>
everyone. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had been building toward
this encounter for days, planning it all to the last detail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end of it, they would fuse and he had
already told her he didn’t want to wear a condom because he needed to finish
inside of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra agreed but only
after he got tested, and the clean bill of health allowed his planning to
continue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She understood his primitive
urge—which couldn’t be put into words—to be one with her at that singular
moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She recognized that much, even
if she didn’t understand it all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra had asked that something play lightly in the background,
and Victor’s choice for the evening was Bach’s Goldberg Variations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was one of his favorite pieces of music
and for him, appropriate for this evening’s events.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m so hot,” he said, his voice just above the music, near
her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I feel like a live wire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel me thrum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel my heartbeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bite down on the ball if you can feel me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra moved her lips, baring her teeth and she bit down on
the ball.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I feel feverish but it is psychological, in my mind…a bubble
of heat and desire in my secret place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
feel things, I feel something pulling at me, but the words…I can never have the
words when I have your eyes or your mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You belittle them or remind me of why they shouldn’t have meaning…you say
that I am not enough or incapable of how fast my heart is beating or how raw I
feel, how much closer I am to the previous species and not the wise man I’m
supposed to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t understand
everything that I feel but know that I feel them deeply; in my arteries, my
veins, my deep tissue, within the walls of my heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not easy; you know this, but I am free
to be myself with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You give me liberty
to be who I am but it scares me how much it hurts to allow you even that,
especially when all I can have is a piece of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel my heartbeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel me thrum, feel me vibrate.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra bit the ball again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I…am terrified of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want to hurt you; I have a need to hurt you because you have the
ability to hurt me…you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have</i> hurt
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I laid myself bare at your feet and
all you wanted was my body, my physical being…that what lies beneath it is
inconsequential and can be ignored or dismissed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I give control of it to you and you do what
you will do, so I have to hurt you if only to soothe my pain, my desire…so I
can sleep at night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He let go of the pole and put his hot hands on her
latex-covered nipples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blindly, he began
to massage them, letting his thoughts flow into words.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You want me but you don’t want me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You keep me at arm’s length; you instruct me
on how to pleasure you but not how to love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You let me be rough with your body; you let me defile you with words,
desecrate you with acts and cover you in my sins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You let me hurt you and you have never said
why it is acceptable for you to want—or need—that kind of treatment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dare I think we are more than kindred; that
what I feel for you is not one-sided, that the heat of me and the heart of me
is more than enough for you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there
room in there for me <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m scared of this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t know how far I will go or what you will allow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m scared of what I feel, of what you feel,
of wondering what you think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel my
heartbeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel me vibrate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tell me you vibrate too; that you are right
now…that if I penetrated you, we would achieve resonance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you vibrating?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you thrumming right now?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra bit the ball gag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor sucked two of his middle fingers and touched her happy clitoris
and saw her breath catch before veeing her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her labia were fat and swollen with heat and
he touched the tip of his erection to her inner lips, lightly drawing it back
and forth; the skin there sensitive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra gasped, keeping the gag in place, but her feet started to
twitch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor didn’t hit her with the
whip, as his hands were occupied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you raw?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you
trembling?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there room in there for
me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra bucked her hips as Victor moved the useless piece of
latex to one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carefully he inserted
the first two inches of his dick between Nedra’s lips and squeezed her hips so
that the fit was tight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sound escaped
the ball gag, like a rough exhale and Victor saw a tear leak from under the
blindfold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Is there room in here for me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He hooked her thighs up to the height of his hips before
forcing his way completely in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had
to angle her pelvis outward to receive him and Victor stood for a moment, eyes
closed, savoring all of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i> vibrating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could feel it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a moment, then another…and then
there was resonance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s breathing
became ragged.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You vibrate for me; you tremble for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can feel your pulse; it’s beating as
rapidly as hummingbird wings flutter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You curve to me; your juicy, hot cunt covers me and devours me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am all the way inside of you and I feel
your heartbeat all over, Nedra…oh God, I can’t hold still like I want and
savor…I can’t hold still…oh God, oh <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">baby</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">His thrusts were slow and even; he was not going to rush
this in spite of every alert nerve and neuron telling him to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved his hips to the side as he thrust,
and faint mewling sounds escaped the ball gag, which was becoming slick with
saliva.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor held her thighs, burying
himself each time, squishing his balls against her opening, wishing he could
get all the way in so that she would never forget him or slight him ever again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He saw another tear slide from under the blindfold and
saliva drip from the sides of her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Do you feel me, Nedra?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you
understand the translation…the words I can’t speak because I’m afraid of your
response?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t acknowledge any of
what I say once I remove the ball gag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You just need to absorb it, feel it, hear it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need to know my secret and keep it locked
in your heart while we are involved and if we evolve. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have to do that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You owe me that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He pressed his cheek against hers, lifting her lips higher
and she moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor knew he wasn’t
hurting her; the Marine had a very high threshold for pain, but emotionally, he
could not say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were his words hitting
the mark?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did she truly understand every
aspect of this particular night?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
continued to thrust slowly and deeply, eyes closing even as they were cheek to
cheek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t know if this is love,” he whispered in her
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I don’t know what it is…</i>”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mmmmph,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She could have easily spit the gag out but chose to keep it as a muzzle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was she actually trying to speak or was it
the physics of the sex they were having?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He didn’t know.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Am I hurting you?” he asked?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t in the most comfortable or comforting
of positions, but he wasn’t going to change a thing unless she called the safe
word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra gripped the ball with her
teeth; Victor took it as a challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
increased the pace and the intensity and she made another incomprehensible
sound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tension on her lower back
increased as he began to jerk her forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Saliva was running from the corners of her mouth and her cheeks were now
slick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they were not slick with tears, then
definitely with sweat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mmmmph!” she said again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stopped trying to control his thrusts and just let
go. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This wasn’t about her; it was about
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved his hands to her ass,
lifting her even more while relieving some of the pressure off her lower back
and suddenly, without warning, he exploded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His climax surprised him at its intensity and ferocity; he felt weak,
but he pushed her against the pole and crushed her under his weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She made another sound; it might have been a
whimper, but Victor held on until he stopped shaking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took a few minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, as he came back to himself, he released
her legs one by one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took a short
step back, keeping an eye on her to make sure she didn’t stumble or slide
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While it looked like her lower
body was wracked with tiny tremors, it appeared that Nedra was able to keep her
feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stepped back and stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thick semen ran down the insides of her legs,
covering the fishnets…some of it dripped on the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was out of breath and he imagined her
shoulders and neck ached.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t gone
easy on her, but there was nothing easy about his feelings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He left her alone in the workout room and went to her
bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor ran a hot bath, adding
salts, thick cream, a sponge and a bath scrunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While the water ran, he took out several
towels and stacked them on the toilet lid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then he went into the kitchen, opened the freezer, and took out a large
lidded cup with a straw and a napkin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then he returned to the workout room where Nedra stood, clearly in a
different headspace than she was an hour ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The room smelled heavily of sex and he looked at her closely and
realized that sometime after he left the room, she managed to have an
orgasm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s scent was as familiar to
him as his own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He removed the ball gag
and wiped her face with the napkin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
closed and opened her mouth several times before he stuck the straw in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sip…slowly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a
thick, fruity milkshake—mango pineapple strawberry, something like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clearly he had made it beforehand, and it was
delicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra took a long pull and
started coughing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor wiped her face again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Slowly, baby…sip slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
want you to throw up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra swallowed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor put the cup down and walked around the pole. Then he began
undoing the ropes that bound her upper arms and her wrists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her arms went slack and then he released the
binds that secured her to the pole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor picked up the cup and caught Nedra before she lost her
balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He scooped her up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was still blindfolded and he put the cup
in one of her hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took some
effort, but Nedra managed to get the straw near her lips so she could sip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her arms and wrists hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was going to bruise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor carried her to the bedroom and laid her on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he went into the bathroom and cut off
the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s tub was so large and
so deep that it took 10-15 minutes to get even three-quarters of the way full.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he went into the bedroom, she lay with
her legs hanging over the side and the cup leaning against her side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor removed her shoes and carefully undressed her, wiping
the insides of her thighs with a wet washcloth before rolling down the
fishnets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he unzipped her skirt,
pulling it over her hips and down her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The latex top zipped on the side and he removed it, carefully pulling it
from underneath her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he removed the
blindfold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra’s eyes were bright and damp and she looked at Victor
with an expression he couldn’t interpret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He lifted the cup to her mouth and she sipped the shake before he put
the cup on the nightstand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he began
to massage her neck and shoulders, and then her arms and wrists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He scooped her up once more and carried her
to the bathroom, snagging the milkshake on the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carefully, he put her in the tub and got in
with her, positioning himself so he could continue to massage her neck and
shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra leaned against him and
he handed her the shake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t drink it
too fast.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She nodded, holding the cup between her numb hands, braced
against her chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a baby she sipped,
closing her eyes as Victor took care of her aching body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The water was hot the way she preferred, and
even though she knew it was hotter than he liked, he had no problems enduring
it to care for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s headspace
was white noise or like an old rolling TV set where a piece of an image would
flash, but she could not decipher it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She couldn’t speak. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although
she’d been bound for no more than 40-45 minutes, it felt like hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor washed her hair, taking as much time and care as she
usually did with his. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could still
feel her tremors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wondered if she was
as shaken by the encounter as he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
had never come that hard before or felt like he had that much in him to contribute
to the cause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was finally able to
use her hands and cupped one around the milkshake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you all right?” he asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She nodded. Physically, yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Emotionally…well, that was something different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Where do you hurt?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She pointed at her neck and shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So he used the carafe to rinse the shampoo
out of her hair and asked if she would like a heated rubdown on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor got up and out, leaving her to soak and went into the bedroom to
prepare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes, sipping steadily, wondering if he’d
actually made the shake or bought it from somewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t want to think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t want to process or analyze the
events of a little while ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gave
the order that she could not speak of it and she would not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And even though she wanted to shut down her
brain, she knew it would do exactly what highly functional brains do:
deconstruct, interpret, analyze, reference, critique, apply, evaluate and
conclude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of that would have to
remain in her head and she had to carry it around like a live bomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe later, he would allow it to be
discussed, but now…no way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was far
too close to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She finished the
milkshake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In time, she was facedown on the bed and he was kneading her
muscles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He turned the music up at some
point and it was Nina Simone’s “Willow Weep For Me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was still raining; it lashed against her
windows, lulling her to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She lay
there, letting her mind quiet down to Nina’s soulful voice and Victor’s
massage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her hair was going to dry into
a crispy Brillo pad, but she’d deal with that later. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor heated her body oil and it didn’t take
long for the dull aches to dissipate to barely-noticeable twinges. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor put the heating pad on her lower back
and pulled the covers up over her. He
kissed her shoulder and cheek and bade her a good night’s sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It rained all night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At some point during, Nedra got up to relieve herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While sitting on the toilet, she absently
rubbed her wrists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stared at them
and sighed when her phone rang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quickly,
she went to retrieve it before it woke Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was Jon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra went back into the bathroom and closed the door before
answering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Baby,” she said in a sleepy
voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I woke you up, Roxy. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">I’m sorry; I thought you’d just be getting
home from work.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I played hooky,” she said, rubbing her wrist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It was necessary.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, this call won’t take long. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m on break and I know you’re tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be home at the end of this week.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
missed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m so glad to hear that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“We need to talk,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’ve been thinking about a lot of things since I was home last and I
want to make some changes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Such as?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I miss you, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
hate being away from you so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate
sleeping alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jonathan, you worry about that more than I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know I’ve never had an issue with your
schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, you make a lot of money and I’m not
ready for you to make less.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He chuckled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh, so
you’re with me only for my money?”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“A girl like me needs security.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I love you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll
talk about this when I come home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go
back to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll call you in a couple
of days and text you my flight information.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I love you, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Have a great day.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra hung up and put the phone next to the sink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she left the bathroom and got back in
bed with Victor, who spooned behind her, buried his face in her neck and
wrapped his arms around her belly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sleep eluded her for a very, very long time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was at work the next evening, sitting in her office
and examining machine specs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wanted
to go ahead and get the paperwork for her electron microscopes started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe that would get the lead out of Dr.
Allen’s ass when it came to her new space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She didn’t know what the holdup was, and she was getting annoyed enough
to complain to Franklin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin
promised to have an answer for her by next week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Keria was at her workstation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra got up and went to her door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yeah?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned and looked up at her boss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Count Cutie’s here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra frowned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor von Doom. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
know, Count Cutie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven’t seen him
here since the last time he popped up while you were here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What was that, two months ago?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
don’t know. I don’t remember.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, he’s here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
want me to let him in?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No, you keep working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ll deal with him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day
after his impromptu visit that ended in a spanking and sex, Nedra changed the
lock sequence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Keria grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He
likes you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t be ridiculous, Key.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just
because you got a man doesn’t mean another one won’t find you appealing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This one clearly does because he keeps on
stopping by, mostly when you’re here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nothing wrong with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>; Count
Cutie has taste.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra walked down the stairs and to the door, frowning at
Victor, who stood with his hands in his back pockets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Would you date him?” Keria asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra turned and side-eyed her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go back to work, Key.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She unlocked the doors and made a
split-second decision to let Victor in as opposed to stepping out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stepping out meant she had something to hide
from Keria, but allowing Victor meant the opposite.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Can I help you, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m actually here to help you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Keria, not giving a single damn, popped her head up from her
desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Really now?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra waved her hand in Keria’s direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Keria, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor, Keria.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“We’ve met.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hi
Victor,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hello,” he replied, smiling back at her<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So, how can you help me?” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her eyes said something different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s about the equipment you want to order and the lab
space you requested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, I overheard
your conversation with Franklin and that dipshit Allen.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra just looked at him for a very long moment and then sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come to my office.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">As he walked past Keria, she smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Allen is a dipshit, though.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor smiled back at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Asshole, dick, loon, douche, jerk…the list
goes on.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Keria giggled and Nedra turned to stare at her as she walked
up the stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keria was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> a giggler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You okay?” she asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m great,” she replied and turned back to her monitor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Once in the office, Nedra closed the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, what are you doing here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I told you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m here
to help you out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra pressed her lips together and offered him a seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat behind her desk and looked at
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How much space do you need?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“As much as I can get.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are two unused spaces: across from here and further down the
corridor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want them both.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I remember you saying you wanted some scanning electron
microscopes and some other things.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Have you decided on a brand?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“The one that we’re currently sharing with…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everybody</i>…is a GriffTech, which is
decent.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Guess Physical Chemistry is too good to share the SEM with
the rest of us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Bet your ass we are,” she said, sniffing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re practically fighting for time with
other departments…and I can’t believe I’ve been here as long as I have and
Baxter hasn’t gotten the money to get another one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And besides, we are way the hell over here,
so whenever we do get time, we have to travel to the machine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know most of my staff have some sort of
physical disability.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She rolled her
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was a fight she was tired of
having with TPTB, but for her staff she would continue to do so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You got sixty million dollars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How many do you want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I want five.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m happy
with three.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The space down at the end of
the corridor is large enough to hold them, plus some more equipment.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor whipped out his phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You don’t want a GriffTech, do you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“GriffTech’s solid, but I’ve been fangirling over the Shixmaru 3KT-2Z
and IONICON’s RTES-800 for the past year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And I’ve spent the past four years with the Griff, so it’s time to
upgrade, don’t you think?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got the
money now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You don’t want the Shix,” he said, scrolling through his
phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes, everything sounds great and
buzz is good, but my contacts tell me there is a degenerative flaw in the design
of the 3KT.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Your contacts?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I spent three years interacting with only the online
world…surely you know I’ve got contacts everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People who know stuff they’re not supposed to
know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trust me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He fiddled with his phone again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“All good on the IONICON, however.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The RTES-800 is a top-of-the-line machine; no
flaws to speak of thus far. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any others
you’re considering?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can have them
checked out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Really,
Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t want you spending millions on a scanning electron
microscope that will need to be replaced in three years’ time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s crazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And you should diversify.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get the
IONICON, but also take a look at the Aeniex 247-ES.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you decide to purchase five, throw a Griff
in there as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May as well maintain
your baseline.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She was touched. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d
actually thought about this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thank you,
Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I also took the time to design some workspaces for you and
your staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just emailed them to you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Really</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I figured you haven’t had time to do it yet.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She kept her expression even.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well, when have <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> had the time?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever
they weren’t working, they were together and the most he’d drawn were baths.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well,” he said, looking back even though the office door
was closed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keria had her earphones
on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You know I sleep no more than three
hours a night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did them that day we
raced your car.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Before or after?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
occupied after.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra opened up the email and then downloaded the
images.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to study these, but at
first glance…how do you know what my staff’s needs are?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ve come by from time to time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve also checked out the space across and
down the hall.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“But you’ve never come <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in</i>
unless I’ve been here, and that isn’t often.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Keria and I have become friendly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stared at him, mouth open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A moment later, she said, “You and Keria are <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">friends</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I said we were
friendly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She filled in some blanks for
me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Son of a bitch,” Nedra whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What blanks?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You
trust me, don’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra had on a scarf and sported long sleeves and in
response, she rolled one up, showing him her bruised wrist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she loosened the scarf and gave him a
flash of her neck before tying it back up and covering her wrist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor smiled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jon’s
coming home Saturday.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stopped smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She looked at her fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“He wants to make some changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s no longer happy with the amount of time he spends away from me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor remained silent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your</i>
fault,” she said, looking directly into his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“All<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">. </i>Your<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">. </i>Fault.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How do you feel about what he wants?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Jon and I discuss everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re a couple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So when he comes home, we’ll discuss this
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want him to be happy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What about your happiness?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ve gathered that all of the fun we’ve had lately pleased you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It certainly has pleased me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never thought sex in a shitty motel could be
so entertaining.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m enjoying you being in my life and to be
honest, don’t want to give that up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
you know where you stand, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re
not going to argue about this, but if Jon is feeling a kind of way about his
absence now, it’s because of what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>
put in his head in China.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What will you do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What I always do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take care of my man.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A long moment passed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Would that term now include me?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He looked in her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It
should.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra looked away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She spent the night in Victor’s arms, recovering from the evening’s
events and after Jon’s phone call, didn’t sleep a wink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In short, she’d anticipated Victor’s question
hours and hours before he asked it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
didn’t have an answer then and she didn’t have one now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t know,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Closer" -Nine Inch Nails<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I Love U In Me” -Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No Sleeep” –Janet Jackson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Girl” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Goldberg Variations”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>-Johann Sebastian Bach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Willow Weep For Me” –Nina Simone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-10.html" target="_blank">next</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-88306056981055618062016-05-12T02:57:00.000-07:002016-05-16T06:16:23.513-07:00Lovesick (8/?)<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-7.html" target="_blank">Previous</a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">8: TNT</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">After breakfast, Victor found himself in Nedra’s super-girly
mauve and cream bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a
custom built tub, sizeable enough to comfortably contain her and her beau.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was certainly big enough for the two of
them, and it was under her giant bathroom window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The morning sun streamed in and Victor was in
his own private heaven; between her legs, head and beard covered in suds, eyes
closed, lips parted in bliss as Nedra slowly scratched his scalp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While she had her hands in his hair, she had
her legs hooked over his and her feet around his dick, slowly giving him a
footjob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sounds of pleasure escaped him;
moans and groans, oohs and ahhs, yeses and more, deities, and most
importantly…her name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra liked being in control like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She liked that she could bring a man like
Victor von Doom to his knees, considering what she knew about him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This had to remain their secret and she
needed to make sure he understood that he could not engage her at work under
any circumstances…no matter how hot it would be for him to sneak in and get
some up against the wall between her file cabinets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She would have done it with Jon, but that was a completely
different animal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nedra…mmmmmmmn,” he moaned as her soapy fingers gently
scraped his cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I love this,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I love it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s blissful.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Is it the moments like this that you crave, Victor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like when I feed you or groom you, or give
you sex you like?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This kind of intimacy
is what you want, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This</i> is what you love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It doesn’t work if you don’t do it,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s a difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I felt it that first night when you gave me a bath and I went someplace
I’d never been before. No woman has ever really touched me like that and now I
can’t get enough…it’s like a thirst.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Have you had another woman do this to you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He had asked Chloe to do it and she side-eyed him as if to
say that wasn’t the agreement between them; his job was to dick her down and
nothing more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra ran her flexible toes gently up and down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well shit…when was the last time you were
with a woman with some merit???”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“College.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And what happened?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“She wasn’t…interesting enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Meaning?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor’s head was between her breasts and he fondled a
nipple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was younger than she was and
had one dissertation under my belt and was working on the second.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was useful for release, but we didn’t
share anything other than maybe some books we liked to read and we were
gamers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was working on her
bachelor’s degree and wanted to be an English teacher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were on and off, I guess…but never really
a couple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We didn’t do stuff like this;
I was 17 and needed something warm and wet to sink it in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No clue about the other side of the game.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Omnibus prodigy,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The other side of the coin would be
emotional instability because you take in too much and your brain’s not mature
enough to handle it all.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It wasn’t that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wasn’t interesting enough. She couldn’t keep up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, she read cool books and could game
pretty good for a g—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra yanked his head back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Say it and you will be edgeless, Victor von Doom.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Just not enough in common.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Susan went to MIT and she’s brilliant and can hold a conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought that would go my way.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra eased up on his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“There’s your problem, sweet thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s all about you and what you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you ever stop to think if Sue wanted you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you ever wonder how she saw you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you ever ask yourself if you were
appealing to her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why would Sue want
you? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What about you would attract a
woman like her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re sexy as hell, but
you’re a fucking asshole…and maybe assholes ain’t her thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ever think about that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor craned his neck to look at Nedra and she tugged his
hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He grew quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
continued scratching his head because his hair felt good between her fingers
and she enjoyed playing with the planes of his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Like with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want to be with me regardless of the fact
that I am not available to you in that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You knew that up front and yet you pursued me—or tried to—as if I was
going to be okay with it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My man was
my problem, you said, when he was never a problem at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What he wasn’t was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your</i> business, no matter what I’ve done or am doing with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Correct me if I’m wrong, but have you ever
asked me what I wanted?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And not sexually,
I mean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you ever want to know how I
felt about certain things?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you think
it would have mattered if you bothered to ask me about how things are with Jon
and me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it even would be safe for you
to ask about anything else after that question got asked?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t know how that conversation could
have gone down because you didn’t ask.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You didn’t care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s all about
Victor; sweet sweet Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck what
the rest of us wants.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He kept playing with her nipples blissfully as she caressed
his dick with her feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why am I here
then?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Because <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> want
you to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I like you and am
attracted to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re complicated in
a way I find appealing and there is something about you that draws me to you,
but only in a certain way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re only really
concerned about what you want and how things affect you and how I respond to
you and all that shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can get down with that because my heart
isn’t yours to have, but my body is yours to lease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">are</i>
good together and I’m perfectly content to explore this connection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I admit that I was shocked that you actually
set about trying to find me instead of getting lost in the work like I expected
you to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made me feel good.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How can you be like this <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> be in love with another man?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Your self-centered tiny little mind can’t fathom a woman
not being with you completely or understand how I can do this with you and not with
the man I love?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what makes you think
we <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">don’t</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Most men’s minds work that way.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He elected to ignore the second question.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Not all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
layers to any relationship; trust, understanding, awareness, acceptance, and
truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The truth is I’m in love with
Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have shared things, experienced
things, had things, lost things, and gone through things with him by my
side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>War is hell; it changes you and
when it comes down to the realness, it’s just you and the men and women you
served with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were all we had, even
when we had nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when I decided
that I’d given enough to the cause, I wanted to go down a different path and
explore my academic gifts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had no interest
in being in a relationship with anyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I just wanted to go to school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Men came at me; tried to date me, but I didn’t have it anymore…or so I
thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon found me about three years
into my program in Cal Tech, and I’m still not 100% on how he knew where I was,
and rode out to Pasadena one rainy weekend while I was working on my
comprehensive exams and said, ‘I can’t do this without you, Nedra. I don’t want
to do this without you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sorry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Please.’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never calls me Nedra
unless he’s 1000% serious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told him
I’d think about it and would call him in two weeks’ time once my comps were
over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the rest is history.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What happened over there?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nothing you need to know about, and please don’t ask
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to rinse your hair and
beard now.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pulled up the sprayer
and tested the water before rinsing Victor’s head and face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“All you need to understand from this
conversation is that everything isn’t all about you and if you want to have the
intimacy you crave, you better start asking yourself ‘What can I do for HER?’
‘How can I make HER happy?’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He turned in the tub suddenly, splashing water and faced
her, coming up between her legs, kissing her quickly on the lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra Nix, how do I make you happy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“In the context of this relationship?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you to give me the kind of sex I want,
need, and crave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you up to the
task?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you stay in the boundaries I
set?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you behave and do what I
ask?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promise you if you can, you will
get as much pleasure from this as I will because I think you got something in
you that matches what’s in me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What are we talking about?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I want to explore my limits with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to test myself, how much I can
take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have an appreciation for
certain…kinks…and I want to know where they’ll take me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And you think I can do that for
you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">With</i> me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re a quirky
bastard too with some hidden gems, I just know it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor raised a sardonic eyebrow
and moved in such a way to splash water on Nedra’s chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I knew you were kinky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You let some things slip that night and I was
all over it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Still want to be?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now or never, honey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to get out of this tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The water’s cooled off.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yes,” he said, leaning forward
to kiss her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra cupped his damp
face and kissed him back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This wasn’t
hard for her and she hoped he wouldn’t be stupid enough to make it hard for
them both.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stood up and picked her up,
stepping out of the tub with ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra let him carry her to the bedroom, but asked him to snag a towel on
the way out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was not one for air-drying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So Victor dried her off, slowly, carefully,
working his way around her body lovingly, enjoying how soft and firm she
was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As usual, far too much time was
spent on her ass, but she was used to it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Feel like moisturizing?” she
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I use a body oil as opposed to
lotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put the towel on the bed and
I’ll get it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 131.25pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
Victor obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had no idea where this
was going to go, but he was strapped in for the ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the first time since his seclusion, he
didn’t give a fuck about going to work or calling in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra came back with a label-less bottle full
of light-colored oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shook it
vigorously and handed it to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just a
little,” she said, lying down on the bed and swinging her braids over one
shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Doesn’t take much.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor sat on her ass and drizzled oil on her back, thinking
about what she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And once again, she
had him backed into a corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t
have an answer for any of her questions outside of his own needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He began to rub the oil into her skin and she
folded her arms under her chin and said, “Harder, please,” and he obeyed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And all I have to do is be out of the way when Jon comes
home?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Like you don’t exist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the only way
it will work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Can I ask a question?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Within reason.”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why me…and not him…with this<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">…aspect</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra murmured into her arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She expected this question back when they
were in the tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He is scared of
hurting me and he…and that’s the end of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>
conversation.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I understand.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Good.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor massaged her shoulders as Nedra reached on her
nightstand and grabbed the remote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Music
filled the room and she sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I have
every room wired for sound and linked to my iTunes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Snagged this off YouTube.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love his rendition.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The song was Prince’s cover of Radiohead’s “Creep.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor listened and moved his hands firmly
over Nedra’s back and shoulders, losing himself in the music and her body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt so good, so warm, so inviting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the lines “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What are you doing here?</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You
don’t belong here…</i>” haunted him in so many ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra felt his hands tense up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Feeling all right, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He changed the lyrics a little bit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That’s Prince for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He murdered this track…but what I’m sensing is something else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the chorus, isn’t it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Speaks to you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How did you know?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Because it spoke to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t think you’re a creep or a weirdo, Victor…but I’m an
anomaly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll find what you’re looking
for eventually, but you have to take the focus off yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now, focus on me and my pleasure and
watch you achieve your own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t you
know how these relationships work?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He lay down on top of her, cupped his hand around the back
of her neck and squeezed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you interested in bdsm?” he whispered in her ear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yes,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Mild forms, see what my responses would be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I also want mutual exploration and mutual
pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been interested for a
long time, but the opportunity never really came up until we met and you had
what I felt were the right sensibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even though this is a relationship built on trust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can I trust you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you trust me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor slipped his erection between her ass cheeks like a
hot dog in a bun and she muffled a moan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So did he, closing his eyes while squeezing them together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved back and forth and groaned
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s ass was hot and his mouth
watered, thinking of possibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
he moved, he said, “Do you remember me saying I trust what we shared that
night?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mmm hmmm,” she murmured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It still applies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m here because I couldn’t let that tether go, wouldn’t you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Fair enough.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
was so hard and so hot and she was tempted to suggest he grab the oil and use
it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell me about the sleazy hotel thing,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m intrigued.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She giggled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I feel
a kind a way sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m no lady and
don’t claim it under any circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes I just want to be treated like a slut; have a guy take me to a
diner and then to a 2-star motel and fuck my brains out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or I fuck his out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And then we put our clothes on and go our separate ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just something good, quick and dirty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or maybe not so quick, but equally good and
dirty.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Has that happened before?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He hand his hands on the back of her neck, moving his hips slowly
between her cleft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved all of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was satisfied as fuck in the car on the way
home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He wondered if she’d done it with Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is that something you’d ask me for?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I just did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got
a little bit of sleaze to me; I think most women do but won’t own it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I own my sexuality; every bit of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love to be made love to, I love to have
sex, I love to fuck, and I love to be treated in whatever way I want to be
treated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And not all those parameters
have been met yet, so I lack complete satisfaction.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And can I tell you what I want?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sat back up, adjusting so he could massage
her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra missed the warmth and
curve of his dick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“This doesn’t work if we don’t communicate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s for both of us, remember?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“We need a safe word then,” he said, moving down to drizzle
oil on her ass and thighs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
grinned; he’d be there for a smooth 30 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And it felt great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew how to
use the right amount of tension on her glutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You pick,” she said, adjusting her arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Thermite,” he said, without batting an eye or changing his
movements.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You told me I was thermite that night in the garage.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra moaned and stretched her arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You haven’t proven me wrong yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But not at work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nowhere near work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keria and Natalie have already seen you…and
that’s a no-no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want them
suspecting anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even in the
garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are cameras.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“But I want to fuck you in your car,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I didn’t say you couldn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tell you what; I race her on that abandoned runway outside of town; come
with me and you can finger-fuck me as I run that speedometer up to the
red.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then after I’ve gotten my high, you
can get it for real.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor’s smile was megawatt as he imagined it: a hand inside
her jeans, plucking her sweet clit like a guitar string while she wheeled that
G13 over 150mph.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would probably run
like a faucet and then he’d bend her over the hood of that baby.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> want?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tell me one thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I wandered around your house this morning,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I saw your workout room.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Ah,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor gripped her ass hard, mind already focused on what he
wanted. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to put you in a slutty latex
outfit and bind you to your pole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want
to blindfold you and gag you and do…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">whatever</i>…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I…want</i>…” He wanted to see her bound and
at his mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then there were other
things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You have potential,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Make it count.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll leave it up to you to choose the outfit.
I don’t have to ask if you know my size.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He lay back down on top of her after hotdogging his dick
again, covering her arms and her legs with his own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He began kissing the back of her neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So when do we begin?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A couple of weeks later, the matter transporter was up and
running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Word spread through Baxter that
primate testing was about to take place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While most of the researchers in the think tank focused on their own
work, there were some who were curious about what Reed and Victor and the
others were building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day the first
primate test was about to begin, Franklin was standing on the upper levels of
the lab with Dr. Allen, engaged in quiet discussion while watching
preparations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin felt a hand on
his shoulder and turned to see Nedra smiling at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dr. Allen smiled at her too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin squeezed her hand and smiled
back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t seen her since she got her
grant money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What are you doing here, Nedra? What’s dragged you out of Physical Chemistry?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Just popped in to see this transporter test.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m curious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dr. Allen,” she said, nodding at him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Allen was showing all his teeth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re still working on getting you the space
you requested, Dr. Nix.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra coolly stared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What’s the holdup? It’s available and no one else is claiming it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I have put forth a quality proposal as to
why I need it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Franklin intervened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Don’t worry, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that you
have your funding, we will make sure you get the all space that you need.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t about to let that money go unspent,
but some people were assholes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin
wanted to keep Nedra happy because he knew other think tanks and universities were
actively recruiting her to be on their staff…and wherever she went, her money
went with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, he was the one
who found her at Cal Tech; he wasn’t about to let his prodigy go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Thanks, Franklin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Honestly though, I came up here to see if this thing actually
works.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She waved her hand at the matter
transporter and leaned in to whisper in his ear, “We’ve got a betting pool
going.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Is that right?” Franklin said, smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are the odds?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“2 to 1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally
don’t think it’s safe enough yet.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“The kids have been working on it for months, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Designing and modifying and redesigning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They haven’t slept much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reed and Victor have been at it with the math
and science; they’ve been arguing nonstop, but they’ve finally come to some
sort of truce and I believe they’ve figured it all out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s going to work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You and your smarties,” she said, shaking her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She walked over to the rail and leaned over,
scanning the transporter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Impressive,”
she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s bigger than I thought.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor was on the floor with the others, sitting at their
stations when he saw Johnny look up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An
expression crossed his face and he said, “Sue…who is that with Dad?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sue looked up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh,
that’s Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s the head of Physical
Chemistry; the one who scored that sixty-million-dollar grant a couple of
months ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one Dad was bragging
about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s one of his prodigies.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Johnny wiped his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“She fine as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hell</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think Dad needs to make a personal
introduction.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put his goggles on top
of his head and licked his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How
come I haven’t seen her around before?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sue, nonchalant as always, fiddled with a pencil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i>
far out of your league.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor, hearing Nedra’s name, turned and looked up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was standing at the rail with Franklin
and Dr. Allen and to his absolute surprise and delight, she was wearing a
pretty blue dress that stopped just above the knee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her legs were curvy and beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She removed the braids at some point since he
last saw her and her hair was back in its usual thick curls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He shifted in his seat, thoughts flying
through his mind as he adjusted his shirt to hide his stiffening dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
last time he saw her was a week ago at a Motel Spin near the interstate and
during the vigorous, almost violent encounter, he pulled on her braids hard
enough that some came off in his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra wasn’t upset about it, either.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">To his surprise, Johnny was actually making his way towards
the steps, and ever possessive of her, Victor stood up but realized it would
look suspect if he tried to stop Johnny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Besides, Nedra would shut him down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He sat back down and looked up to watch the festivities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Franklin handed Nedra a pair of goggles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re starting soon, and you’ll need these
if you’re going to stay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How’s
Jonathan?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He’s great, Franklin.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra put the goggles on as Johnny walked up to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She smiled at him and lifted them over her
head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You must be Johnny.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And you have the advantage,” he said, extending his
hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra took it and gripped it hard, giving it one shake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Johnny winced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nice to meet you, Johnny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve
heard a lot about you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she turned
back to his father, dismissing the younger Storm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Will the test be starting soon, Franklin?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Johnny, ignoring the brush-off, said, “You sticking around
for it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra shrugged and looked back at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just want to see if it’s going to work or blow
up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“She won’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s
solid; she’ll work just fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did most
of the welding myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can build
anything.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That’s nice,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So, what are you doing later?” he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“When this test is over, what do you say we
grab a bite to eat?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know my father
and sister; you should really get to know me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra side-eyed him, incredulous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Johnny, really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why not?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She laughed and shook her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t think so, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got toys older than you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go on, now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Looks like you’re needed on the floor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Johnny, not easily deterred, smiled and smoothed his
mustache.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Age ain’t nothin’ but a
number, pretty lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’m way more fun
than a toy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra looked at him, no longer smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re needed on the floor, Johnny.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she turned away from him and went back
over to his father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Johnny watched her
go, and in a split second, decided to go after her, but decided against it in
another second.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hand still throbbed
from her handshake; best to leave well enough alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor watched the exchange and smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t stand Franklin’s hot-headed son
and did not like that Johnny was so casual about going up to Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t even care for Franklin’s and Dr.
Allen’s rapt attention to her conversation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only thing that made him happy was Nedra’s
immediate dismissal of Johnny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">That, and her pretty blue dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was after eleven p.m. and Nedra was the only one in the
lab, securing a rack of test tubes filled with pale blue liquid into one of the
fume hoods while listening to music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To
her surprise, the matter transporter primate test was actually successful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to give it to Franklin’s kids; they
knew their shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hadn’t so much as
glanced at Victor but knew he saw her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last time she saw him was a little over a
week ago; he picked her up at a diner and took her to a raggedy-ass motel near
the interstate where they proceeded to fuck the living shit out of each
other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor pulled out several of her
braids and she promptly had them removed the next day, as the gaps could not be
hidden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sent her a text the next day
saying he understood her penchant for dirty sex in sleazy motels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">After she closed the fume hood, she looked up, scanning the
lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As usual, she was alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the workstations were neat and organized;
she did not tolerate messiness, but fortunately for her, her fellow researchers
were as anal as she was when it came to the lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra noted the time and date on a nearby
clipboard and was about to head to her office when she saw movement out of the
corner of one eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was standing at
the doors of her lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She made a face
and gestured for him to go away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead, he punched in the lock code and the doors opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She should not have been surprised to know
that he knew how to get into her lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sneaky motherfucker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">course</i> he knew her passcode.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore it had to be changed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor walked in with his usual swagger after making sure
the doors were closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra turned away
from him and quickly walked up the stairs to her office and went inside,
closing the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took Victor less
than twenty seconds to reach her office and enter it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You rang?” he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was definitely feeling a kind of way and
it showed in his expression.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She smirked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
haven’t seen or talked to you since last week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t call you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Fuck if you didn’t,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That dress is as good as a subpoena.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes and backed away from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What makes you say that?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Today you show up in our lab…wearing a dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Today</i>
of all days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You hardly come to our side
of the street and you never wear a dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So to clarify, one thing you rarely do; the second you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never</i> do, but today you felt the need to
do both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I read you very well.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He walked towards her, unfastening his belt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra folded her arms and rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re not supposed to be here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you we wouldn’t do this at work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This place is off limits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go home, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Sure baby, whatever you say,” he said, removing the belt
from the loops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Johnny certainly
noticed you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ve never met Franklin’s son,” Nedra said, her eyes on
Victor’s belt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He’s…cute.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He’s a dick,” Victor said, walking towards her, folding the
belt in half.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Did he ask you out?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra took two steps back and found her back against the
wall and her heartbeat quickening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He
tried to, bless his heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got
vibrators older than him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t want any random-ass men talking to you,” he said,
taking her arm roughly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“One I can’t do
shit about, but the rest…” Victor yanked Nedra forward and she landed across
her desk, catching herself before her head hit her computer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor lifted her dress and caressed her
ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her panties were blue silk, the
same shade as her dress, and he pulled them down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra closed her eyes as the first two blows from
his belt landed in rapid succession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
bit her lip and held her breath, wondering how long he’d had <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> in mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You wanted me to come here tonight...and here I am,
baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You knew good and goddamn well
what you were doing when you went over to our side of the street.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">No response from her, other than gripping the sides of the
desk and taking shallow breaths.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor put one hand on her lower back and hit her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No side chatter, no water cooler
conversations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just….<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">none</i> of that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess I have to put up with Franklin just
because—” <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POP</i>! <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POP</i>! “—he’s your boss, but none of that shit with anyone else.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t help himself and smacked her
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t cry out; didn’t make a sound past a whimper
when he hit her the second time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
nipples ached and she squeezed her thighs as tight as she could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had not expected something as prosaic as
a spanking, but oh <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">boy</i>…!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her fingers curled around the edge of the
desk, wondering how far this was going to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was already wet and throbbing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor hit her three more times, waiting for her to cry out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His voice was low and steady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You understand what I’m saying, Nedra?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You laid down your rules, so I’m laying down mine, and you’re mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mine for my pleasure and my consumption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you understand?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Two more pops to her ass and Nedra finally let out a gasp
and a tiny little cry as her legs wobbled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her scent blasted Victor and he closed his eyes before squatting and sticking
his face between her cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
groaned as he licked her, but held on to the desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her ass stung and she would have to remember
to ask him why he decided to spank her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was certainly unexpected and just a tad bit unnerving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Um,” she said, unable to be coherent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stood up and unzipped his pants and in a matter of
moments, was inside of her, hands on her waist, eyes closed at the
sensation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s ass was warm from the
spanking and she was nice and wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
arched her back and put her palms on the desk, pushing into him, fucking him
back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They didn’t speak; there was no
shit-talking, no commands, nothing but the sounds of skin on skin and sex
queefs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra grunted quietly as the
force of their act bumped her against the desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor filled her completely, as he always did and this wasn’t a sweet,
easy lay; it was a good rough fuck, something she needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor came before she did and slipped a hand
underneath to stroke her clitoris. In another moment, her climax was running
down the insides of her legs and Victor dropped to his knees to lick it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some time later, they were straightening their clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra handed him a handful of wet wipes and
used some to clean her legs and crotch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
pulling up her panties, she stood still for a moment, processing what just
happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor von Doom broke into her
lab and spanked her with his belt for no reason she could see other than being
jealous of Johnny talking to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
belt had actually hurt, but she wasn’t angry about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A little bit of discomfort was nothing when
the end result was a strong O.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra began packing up, deciding her workday was effectively
over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, I told you that you
couldn’t engage me at work.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Then why did you show up at our lab?” he asked, putting his
belt back on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I wanted to see if the machine worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a betting pool; I lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought it was going to blow up.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Subconsciously, she rubbed her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It throbbed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was soaking in the tub tonight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Really?” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
smelled great; some light fragrance…not flowery, not fruity, but it was fucking
with his head, even after the sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You
have that little faith in me, Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Of course not…” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I believe in your abilities; your gifts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But that thing you built is freaky…if it does
what people say it’s supposed to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You saw it
for yourself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra finished packing up and turned to face him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She reached down in her desk drawer and
pulled out a can of Febreeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
sprayed three or four puffs and smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Take that condom with you,” she said, motioning towards the trash can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s Kleenex on my shelf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now get the hell out of here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor nodded, wrapping the condom and the wet wipes in a
handful of Kleenex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
satisfied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looked at her, hoisting
her backpack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">So much for the no-work rule.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hot Thing” -Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” –The Police</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Just Can’t Stay Away” –En Vogue<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Creep” –Radiohead <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You Should Be Mine” –Brian McKnight<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Let’s Work” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-9.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
<br />Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-33664071191649871512016-05-07T23:17:00.001-07:002016-05-12T02:59:47.567-07:00Lovesick (7/?)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-6.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">7: Lovesick</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor walked quietly through Nedra’s apartment, taking in the
nuances of her home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was elegant yet
cozy, beautifully decorated…and Jon’s presence was all over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were pictures of them, of him, of her
family, his family…her degrees and military honors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had bookshelves full of research manuals
and works of fiction by authors he’d never heard of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He picked up a couple and thumbed through,
wondering if the woman had ever heard of Kindle or any other kind of
e-reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He picked up one of the
pictures of her and Jon, both in formal military garb, and stared at it for a
very long moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was another
picture of them, taken from behind, holding hands as they walked into an ocean
surf sunset.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There was a giant picture of Nedra hanging in the
hallway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was facing away from the
camera; her hair a giant pile of dark spirals partially covered by a red Kangol
and there was a huge smile on her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She wore a red V-neck sweater and jeans and it was taken in the
park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stared at it for a long
time, examining her expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
looked so happy and he found himself jealous of the recipient of her
smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who was she smiling at and who
took the picture?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He had to allow the question to form in his mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Even if
I could get sway as her lover, could I ever overcome all this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can I make her smile like this? What would it
take?<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Down the hall from the living room was her office; much like
his…she had four computers set up on an enormous table; each one flashing a
different screensaver of her and Jon in various locations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Across from her office was a game room; a
pool table, a chess set in the corner, and shelves with what appeared to be
every board game in existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was
also a small bar set up in another corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He noticed that there were no video games present or even a game
console.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The final door at the very end of the hall was closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ever curious about the woman, Victor opened
the door and was surprised at what he saw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Clearly it was a workout room; he saw a corner with a mat and free
weights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was one wall that was
covered with a huge mirror and the floor was highly polished wood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the middle of the floor was a stripper
pole.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, what do you know?” he said to himself, smirking as he
closed the door. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was a pole
dancer, or at least used it to work out with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He imagined the sight; those glorious strong brown legs swinging around,
in clear heels that were five to six inches high, half naked…and he began to
get aroused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed the door and headed
back to her bedroom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">On the way back, he stopped by the kitchen and grabbed a
huge apple from the fruit bowl and a bottle of water. Nedra was still asleep,
on her stomach, gripping the pillow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
lips were parted in and she snored quietly; she slept peacefully and
content.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her legs were spread and she
wore a short, sheer pink nightie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
had not been able to make it to the Promised Land after all; after the first
round of head, he followed her to her bedroom, elated that she had a four-poster
bed replete with sheer curtains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bed
was undeniably gothic and elevated, providing contrast to her crimson and cream
bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The room itself was huge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had parted the curtains and lay on the bed on her back,
her head hanging off one edge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come
here, Victor,” she said. “Come put your dick in my mouth again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve missed it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her for a moment, stroking himself so that
he could get hard enough to meet her request.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Never let it be said that he would turn down head as magnificent as
Nedra’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t fully recovered from
the last round, but she was licking her lips and reaching for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He came to her, following her beckoning hands
like a sailor to a siren.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor slipped
his semi-hard dick into her mouth and it didn’t take long for him to be fully
hard and getting blown upside down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
time he didn’t bother with pretenses; he locked his fingers around her neck and
face-fucked Nedra until he came, facializing her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stared at her dripping face with
satisfaction before falling on the floor again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra got up and went to wash her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While there, she decided to get ready for
bed, as it was clear Victor wasn’t going to be able to fuck her tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lucky for him, she was working from home
tomorrow—something she did every two weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Well, she wasn’t sure if it was lucky for him; she didn’t know his
schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra took a quick shower and
afterwards, tied down her braids with a scarf and put on her hot pink bathrobe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When she went back into the bedroom, Victor was lying in
bed, hands behind his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put on
the matching nightie and got into bed beside him, using the dimmer switch next
to her bed to turn off the lights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
was enough moonlight entering the room to throw a swatch across the bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good night,” she said, leaning over to kiss his lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m sorry,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“For?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not making it to the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have literally blown my mind and I don’t
have anything left.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never mind the
emotional blows she dealt him earlier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She ain’t going anywhere,” Nedra assured him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You working tomorrow?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m supposed to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, don’t wake me up on your way out, ok?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned away from him and pulled the
covers over her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor sat up for a
long time, and then frowned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His
so-called date did not go the way he intended; Nedra laid a series of land
mines down from the time he hit the door and he still had not emotionally
recovered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clearly she was upset about
him confronting Jon and in hindsight, Victor realized it wasn’t the smartest
move he made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He attempted to bait the
man, but it backfired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a
testament to the strength of Jon and Nedra’s relationship, because a lesser man
would have punched him in the face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He wondered what took place during their walk back to the
hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What was said, what was
done?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever happened pissed Nedra off
enough to destroy his intentions of wooing her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She laid down the rules of the relationship they were going to have and
he either would accept them or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Being as lovesick as he was, he didn’t have the strength or the
guts to tell her to fuck off and walk out of her door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Lovesick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was he
really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The standard definition of the
word was in love; or missing the person one loves so much in such a way that
one cannot act normally.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He thought about his actions ever since he returned to
Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, he’d been working steadily
on the matter transporter, but he’d begun taking breaks—which caught the
attention of his team—to walk the floors of Baxter looking for Nedra’s
lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When that didn’t work, he threw
caution to the wind and asked Franklin where she was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin stared at him for a very long moment
before asking why and Victor pulled some lame excuse out of his ass, but
Franklin informed him that if he wanted to give anything to Dr. Nix, it would
be best to leave it with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
took the lie further, convincing Franklin that it would be best if it were done
in person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor never stopped to
wonder if Franklin questioned that or regretted giving him the information,
considering how protective Nedra was of her lab.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He paid people to do things—illegal things—so he could spy
on her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He booked a very expensive trip
to China just to follow her and her beau around to see what they were like
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put himself out there in a
way he would never have done for Sue or anyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even his infatuation with Sue paled in
comparison to his feelings for Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sue was an ideal; Nedra was the real.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor supposed that, in the loosest, laxest definition of
the word, he was lovesick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their night
together had been a game changer for both of them, but unlike him, she knew her
place in the situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew what
she was and what she wanted from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
sickened him that she ultimately put <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>
in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">his</i> place—something no one had
ever dared to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It hurt his secret
heart to know that her heart belonged to another man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What were at one time mere words were now
backed up with irrefutable facts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her words reverberated in his mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You
expect the same level of affection I give a man I served in the Marine Corps
with, fought with, shared secrets with, nearly lost my life with…a man who,
after I was honorably discharged, came looking for me because he decided he
couldn’t live without me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want that
and we’ve known each other less than six months and shared nothing but a night
of great, great sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about what
you’re asking for, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want the
reward of my heart but you haven’t done anything to deserve it.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nearly lost her life for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A man who searched for her because he realized that he
couldn’t live without her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Eighteen motherfucking years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A night of great sex wasn’t a drop in the bucket, even if
Nedra enjoyed it as much as he did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sex
was physical, release, fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love was a
damn sight more than that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sex was easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love was hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could give Victor the pleasure of her
body; she could even give him the emotional care he craved so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But their night of passion was eons away from her love for Jon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They served
together and likely saw combat together—her comment on nearly losing her life
was not lost on Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did Jon save her
or did she save him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> D</span>id they save
each other?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had no context for
what that was like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra could even
rationalize using Victor for sex and knew it wouldn’t harm her real
relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From her point of view,
she had the best of both worlds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He balled his fists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i> jealous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want you to love me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How do I make you love me?” he asked the darkness, a long time after the
lights were out and Nedra was fast asleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s sleep was not peaceful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tossed and turned so much that he got up
and sat in the huge chair near her bed and turned on the TV, low enough that
she couldn’t hear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The TV watched
him;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>he didn’t know what was on because
he was besieged with thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">His secret heart, which was more of a secret place in his
mind, engaged him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Why should she love
you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What have you done for her other
than stalk her and upset her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What on
earth makes you think that qualifies you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sex is sex, and she told you from the beginning that’s all it ever was…but
you caught feelings because she made you feel a kind of way.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He engaged it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I liked feeling that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt…safe, protected, in the care of
someone who finds me appealing</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Someone who had the capacity to care; to give a shit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">And you think that’s
enough?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re not even close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re a Mensa-level genius and you’re thinking like your IQ is on the
opposite end of the curve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What have you
shared with her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want her to love
you, but do you love her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you even
know what that means?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What can you offer
her that eclipses what he does for her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He takes care of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you do
that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your money means nothing to
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What qualities do you possess that
would make a woman like Nedra love a man like you?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He could not answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I suggest you give
that some thought then…if you are really serious about trying to have anything
with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, being a sex partner is
well and good, but she did basic things to you that you assign value to…which
makes you stupid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So she bathed you,
shaved you, washed your hair, made you laugh, made you come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, sexually you two could have all the
fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But what’s love got to do with
that?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He couldn’t answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keep it at the sex,
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take love out of the equation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re not really capable of it anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve never had it, so her care and feeding
of your needs has you fucked all the way up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She’ll never leave him for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Never.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You. Are. Not. Good. Enough.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shut up, shut up!!!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He covered his ears and closed his eyes, as
if that would stop his secret heart from being all the way live in his head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I will for now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But what will you say when she asks you these
same questions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Telling her to shut up
won’t get you anything except punched in the face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that punch is coming your way like a
motherfucking heat seeker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stayed in the chair until before sunrise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By then he was tired enough to snag a few
hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t the type to sleep more
than three or four a night, but he got in bed next to her warm body and curled
against her, finding peace in her warmth and in the way she pressed against him
and sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor put an arm around her
and kissed her ear, whispering his plea one more time hoping it would implant
in her subconscious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want you to love me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I need you to love me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When he awoke, it was three and a half hours later and Nedra
was still sleeping peacefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had
turned during the night and was facing him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor gazed at her face, wanting to kiss her and touch her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had this been the night of their first
meeting, he would have just done it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
things were different now. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was in
complete control and if he deviated one iota from her wants, she would get rid
of him permanently and he didn’t know if he could handle it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t even leave her apartment last
night when she threw the truth of it all in his face and told him all he was
capable of being was her side dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was a harsh blow to his ego, to his heart and mind to hear he wasn’t good
enough to be her man…it was something he couldn’t readily admit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But even with the doorknob in his hand and
freedom an inch from his nose, he couldn’t resist the sound of her voice, the
temptation of her body, the declaration of her needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Don’t
be stupid</i>,” she had said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Come here…I want to make love to you.</i>”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">And then she said his name, at which point he closed the
door and locked it…accepting her wishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For him, it hadn’t been a choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A life without Nedra—any kind of life—wasn’t one he was ready to accept
just yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had to see, to know, if he
could make her feel anything for him other than sexy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He didn’t wake her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor eased out of bed and explored her house, curious about her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He brought fruit and water back to the
bedroom and noting that she had not changed positions, decided to see what was
in her closet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hell, he had done far
more invasive things, so examining her wardrobe was nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything was neat and ordered by color and
she had to have at least 200 pairs of shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then he went through her drawers, taking his time with her lingerie,
caressing the material, closing his eyes as he thought of her wearing them…the
purple lace, the red satin, those cream sheer ones she had on last night and
had dampened while she was sucking his dick...<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">where were they???</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had a hamper in the bathroom and he found them on top
and like a man on an emotional precipice, picked them up and smelled them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed his eyes and allowed memories to
flood his mind; looking up at her from the floor, watching the wetness spread
and how thirsty he was; how much he wanted to lick her clean…but all he could
do was collapse on her floor after she slobbed him down once more and show her
he wasn’t fit for anything after that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She probably made fun of him in the restroom as she got ready for bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor sniffed and sniffed her potent fragrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, because he didn’t want to get caught
looking like a perv, he put her panties down and went back into her
bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In her wardrobe, he found a
rack of scarves: rich silks and satins, sheer and cotton, bold colors and
patterns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He touched one of them and
wondered if she would like it being used on her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What he really wanted was to use her panties
to tie her ankles and wrists to her posts and spread her out and wide and take
his time with every inch of her body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
wanted to tease her and please her and have her begging for him by the time he
was done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted to see her slick
with need for him, her hips bucking to get at him, her pulling against her
binds to get her arms and legs around him…he wanted to see <i>her wanting him, needing him, crazy over him</i>...and suddenly, he was hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed his eyes and touched himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even partially turgid; he had a full-on
woody and he turned to the bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was stirring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>About time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was going on ten
in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor got back in bed
before she woke up fully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He came in
close to watch her wake up and God help her, she was going to see what it was
like having him as a side dude.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She opened her eyes and smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good morning.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s about to be,” he said, taking her hand and wrapping it
around his curve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grinned, yawning while covering her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You get right to the point, don’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Isn’t that why I’m here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Sure, but I just woke up and I’m not ready to handle that
bad boy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, we have to use condoms
this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was far too free with you
last time and I know you haven’t gone without since then…so you’re strapping
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t worry; I got all kinds…pick
your pleasure.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her and put one hand to her cheek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I say it a lot, but just like this,
you’re perfect.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve got my hand around your dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll say anything.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“True, but not lies.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra continued to stroke him, slowly, enjoying the heat
emanating from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He did have a subtle
curve and it felt so good inside when he angled it a certain way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor kissed her, slowly, savoring it as she welcomed his
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part of his soul seemed to sigh as
she pulled him atop her and put her arms around his neck to kiss him
deeply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She kissed him like she loved
him, or so he thought.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I love your mouth,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I should hope so,” she teased, giving him a peck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Since I enjoy using it on you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Kiss me again,” he said, dipping low.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the things he needed to know were the
ground rules.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, it had been
established that they would be lovers—he much preferred that to side piece,
dish, dude or jump-off—but what kind of lovers?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What would she want?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Certain
things had been said, but Victor needed clarity in order to find his way inside
the rules to find the ones he could conceivably break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But right now, he was enjoying her mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tell me how to make love to you,” he whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra had her fingers in his hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What if I don’t want that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why wouldn’t you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You know I can satisfy you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Answer the question.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I wouldn’t do anything you wouldn’t want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you know that.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He kissed her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This…thing…we’ve agreed to…it has to have
more rules than just taking place when your man isn’t here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It stays outside of work.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She kissed him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What if I come late, like I did that night?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What had it been, six weeks ago?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Keria saw you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll wait for her to leave.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He kissed her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You can’t do that every night, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What if I met you at your car or you came by my
apartment…or we meet at a shitty hotel?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This time he kissed the side of her face, running his beard over her
cheek and she trembled softly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Mmmmn, our work schedules don’t mesh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I work from six to two a.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You work whenever the mood strikes, I guess.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I usually keep day hours but I come and go as I please.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He continued his soft kisses on her cheek and
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What if I just wander by your lab
around ten p.m. or so?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will anyone be
there?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t allow my staff...” she closed her eyes as his beard
gently scraped the side of her face. “…to work more than 9 hours a day; Ariadne,
Tracy and Ming open up at six a.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Desnee and Natalie are there at eight, Laila at 9 and Keria at 10…I
prefer…to be…alone mostly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was kissing and grazing her temple; he had quickly
recalled that she liked the feel of his beard against her skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had two days’ worth of growth…just enough
to tantalize her and it was working.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She closed her eyes and let him work his singular magic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon didn’t have facial hair; couldn’t grow
it…so this was very very nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would
tell Victor enough; just enough that he could find his own way to what would
please her…if he wasn’t afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
though she and Jon had an active, vibrant sex life…there were some things he wasn’t comfortable with because of their shared history, his
sensitive nature, and his brute strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor would serve her well in that regard…if he wasn’t afraid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Keep talking,” he said, tracing her ear with his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What if I wander by at ten p.m…would you let
me in?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would you allow me to have you up
against that file cabinet for real this time?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He gently sucked on her earlobe before kissing her ear and sliding his
tongue in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The sensation made Nedra swallow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You really want to fuck me in my lab?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Like you wouldn’t believe,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s been on my mind since I started coming
by…but you’ll want to wear a skirt or something.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved his beard to her cheek and nose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I—I don’t wear skirts at work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What if I texted you and asked you to?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fair warning?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Maybe,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“But I’d rather us keep this away from work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor looked into her eyes before kissing her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“As you wish, then.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kiss went on for several moments and
Nedra scratched his beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want you
to find your way with minimal guidance from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You won’t hurt me and I have my kinks and am curious about others…but
I’ll let you know if you go too far.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It was like her words turned him even harder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra,” he murmured, kissing her lips again,
“…are you saying what I think you’re saying?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you think I’m saying?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re allowing me to lead?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“To an extent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want
to see what you’re willing to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor grabbed her wrists and pressed them into the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He licked Nedra’s nose and kissed her
forehead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m so hot for you right
now,” he moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s been months since
I’ve had you, tasted you, smelled you…I want you so badly, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have never wanted any woman the way I want
you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then move those lips down and take care of my breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re hard as diamonds and need that
beard.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He obeyed and Nedra slid her fingers into his unruly hair,
sighing gustily as he found his way where she wanted and was thankful he
understood that there was more to a breast than a nipple…and knew how to split
time between both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that beard…she
sighed again, arching up to meet his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He slipped a hand under her nightie; she never wore panties to bed and
found her nice and slick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor closed
his eyes as he devoured her nipple while sliding two fingers inside of
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was so hot; so smoking,
brutally hot, but he was going to make this last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No way was he going out like a punk again
after last night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Mmmmn,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Uhhhmmm</i>…the other direction…” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor understood instantly and gently began
moving his thumb counterclockwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
back arched again as he scraped his beard between and over her aching breasts,
making her grab his hair in two handfuls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Pull harder,” he moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She did.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He moved his head lower, caressing her breasts with his free
hand while serenading her belly with kisses and facial hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had a scar on her abdomen that was at
least a six-inch diagonal keloid that warped her navel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had asked about it the first night they
had sex and she told him she got it in Afghanistan and asked him not to mention
it again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made him curious but he
wasn’t stupid enough to ask about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
he did do was kiss and lick it before grazing it with the hair from his
chin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The response he got from Nedra was
such that he did it two more times; she clenched tight around his probing
fingers and a sound escaped her lips that she couldn’t describe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor bit back a moan as her body squeezed his fingers but
he couldn’t help exhaling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
already drenching his fingers and he extricated them and stuck them in his
mouth, sucking hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra watched him
lick and suck his fingers; it never failed to drive her mad that Victor was so
enamored of her pussy that it made him greedy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…taste so fucking good,” he murmured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My</i>
cherry pie…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He spread her thighs, unable to stay away any longer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Six or seven weeks since she had last let him
eat her out and his mouth was parched; his thirst was real, almost
vampiric.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s friendly clit popped
out from between her lips as if to say <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Welcome
back</i>” and soon he was kissing her like a long, lost lover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra held on to his hair, keeping her legs
spread outward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His beard felt like
heaven on the insides of her thighs and he had this fantastic skill of licking
the length of her entire vagina up and down before inserting his tongue,
burying it as deep as it could go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
gripped his hair harder as he tongue-fucked her, not even remotely quiet about
how much he enjoyed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sucked, he
slurped, he kissed, he licked…he took communion at her altar just like a proper
member of the Church of Nedra.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh,” she said, feeling her climax rumble up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her toes pointed and she used her handfuls of
Victor’s sleek hair to rub his face back and forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then she heard his moans and exclamations
as she came abruptly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor devoured
her exertions, not letting any random drops reach the sheets; he craved her
taste almost as much as breathing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
rubbed his entire face in her pussy, wanting to be baptized in her wet heat,
her addicting love, her sweet, sweet bowl of cherries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Goddamn woman,” he said, finally able to pull away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra dropped her legs and looked at his
shiny face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It turned her on that he
never bothered to wipe her off after eating her pussy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If anything, he licked his lips constantly,
trying to get as much of her as he could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m addicted to you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was one
of the reasons why he closed the door instead of opening it and running away
from her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m addicted to this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went down on Chloe merely because he was
curious and quickly discovered that not all vaginas were created equal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Reach in the drawer and grab a condom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it’s whistling past the graveyard after
I found myself with a mouthful of your semen last night, but you still need to
strap up if you want this pussy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was fishing before she even finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He found the thin ribbed His/Hers combo and
got it on just as Nedra rolled to her side and got off the bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Where are you going?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“To the mirror,” she said, pressing her hands against it,
bent low and put an arch in her back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Come get it, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give it to me
hard, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Three steps and he was behind her, his hands on her breasts
as he slipped within her, giving it to her just the way she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He remembered putting a hand around her
throat that first night and how hard she climaxed when he squeezed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The feel of her around him—after months and
months and months—made his knees quiver. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The condom’s sensations on either side was
pleasurable to both and it was then that Victor added more force to his thrusts
and slid a hand around Nedra’s throat,
squeezing…waiting…squeezing…waiting…squeezing until her breath caught, her body
tensed and she squirted all over his dick and trickled out onto the floor.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck</i>,” she moaned,
her knees trembling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor caught her and carried her back to the bed, placing
her on her back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He slipped inside her,
wanting to look into her eyes as he climaxed, needing that connection that made
his sacrifice worthwhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pressed
against her hot body, licked her nipples before kissing her lips, burying
himself in to the hilt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The curve of her
matched the curve of him perfectly and she squeezed her pelvic muscles and let
out a soft, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck me, Victor…please</i>…”
She stretched her arms and gripped the bed sheets as he did exactly that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their eyes met; raw unadulterated passion and
it was enough for Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He erupted,
pushing Nedra back far enough so that he could land on her when his climax
came.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">After a moment, he rolled off her and carefully removed the
condom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He got up and went to the
bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra followed and sat on the
toilet, relieving herself as Victor trashed the condom and used a wet washcloth
to clean himself up, finally washing his face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m so glad you didn’t leave last night,” she said, wiping
and flushing before joining him at the sink.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Would you have been mad if I did?” he said, rubbing his
face with soapy warm water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Annoyed, but not mad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I laid down my truth and you would have either been good with it or
not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you chose to leave I would have
dealt with it and gotten over it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
I’m glad you didn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor turned and looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You like me that much, Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Would you be here if I didn’t, Victor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never made it a secret that you have
marvelous appeal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just wish sometimes
that you allow other women to see it. Want some breakfast?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not much of a cook, but I can scramble an
egg, make some toast, broil some bacon or ham…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll eat anything you have, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You oughta know that by now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“After that, we’ll take a bath, have another conversation, and
I’ll wash your hair and beard, what do you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor rubbed his abs and closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes to all of that.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he opened them and gave her a dark
look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And then some.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Irresistable Bitch” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Caught Up” –Usher<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Head” -Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I Can’t Make You Love Me” -Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m So Into You” –SWV<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Blow” –Beyonce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-8.html" target="_blank">next</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-29422919830874084452016-05-04T22:10:00.000-07:002016-05-07T23:18:52.721-07:00Lovesick (6/?)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-5.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">6: Semtex</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor arrived at Nedra’s apartment with a bottle of champagne
and a half-dozen black calla lilies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
lilies cost more than the champagne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
wondered briefly if Nedra actually dressed for their date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wore a suit; black Kenneth Cole, white
Brooks Brothers, open at the throat, showing just the tiniest bit of chest
fuzz.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told him to arrive at six, and
he was literally at her door one minute before, ringing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was actually nervous. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Three weeks after their return from China, Victor got a
random text from Nedra telling him when to show up at her house and where she
lived, even though he already knew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
stared at the out-of-nowhere message for a solid 30 seconds before he realized
what it was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And so he stood at her door
and rang the bell, wondering what she’d be wearing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it were sweats, or shorts and a T-shirt,
he’d be somewhat heartbroken because the message would be crystal clear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She opened the door and all he could do was stare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her braids had been done up becomingly and
she wore an ankle-length cream-colored wrap with a deep cleavage and the slit
was up to her thigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her fingernails and
toenails were painted a silvery-pearl color and he saw a diamond anklet flash
on her right leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had diamonds in
her ears and on her throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked
like a queen and he caught a whiff of fragrance that made him close his eyes
and think wicked thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This message was also crystal clear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You look…you look…you’re <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">exquisite</i>, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t
find an adjective that accurately captures you at this moment, but <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">damn</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She smiled at him and motioned towards his gifts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thank you. You look nice too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is that Kenneth Cole?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is my tag showing?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Naah,” she said, moving to one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m a fan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Come in.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took the wine and
flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t know if I never said
this to you before, but you really clean up nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What made you stop wearing the sweats and
jeans and all that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Who said I did?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
only dress like this when I see you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra side-eyed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Makes sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You wouldn’t want
to be working at that computer or under the hood of that freaky machine dressed
like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m honored you think enough
of me to clean up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That night you bathed me and shaved me…it changed a lot of
things for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never had anyone do
that but me since I’ve been old enough to shave.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put the champagne on ice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’ll have that later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got a wonderful sweet red to go with our
meal.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she set about putting the
lilies in a beautiful cut glass vase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Victor, you looked a hot ass mess that night and you are far too
handsome to let yourself go like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
understand you were a hermit and all, but shit…you didn’t have anyone coming to
visit?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even an escort, a woman to
come and thrill you a few hours.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have many methods
of self-amusement and can entertain myself for years.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra slit the stems of the lilies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Keria, the woman who let you in that
night, calls you Count Cutie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s
what I was trying to tell you that night, but maybe you just weren’t interested
in women.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Until you walked your sexy ass into my apartment.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You had to let me in first.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra carried the lilies into the living room and set them
on her coffee table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“They’re beautiful,
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t even like flowers, but these…these
are so pretty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They bring out the colors
in here.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her living room had black and
cream walls and a deep crimson carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had a glass and beige wood cabinet that housed a giant flat screen
and stereo system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was music
playing; something he was familiar with but couldn’t name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ve got a penthouse suite,” he said, walking over to the
bank of windows that served as her far wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had a balcony with a breakfast set off to one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her view of the Manhattan skyline was amazing
and he whistled. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How’d you manage
this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had to cost a fortune.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You mean my
apartment?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon did.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor turned to look at her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was setting the dining room table; done in
the same style and material as her entertainment cabinet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he took a deep breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever they were going to eat smelled good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you mean, Jon did?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra shrugged, moving with ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I wanted a nice apartment with a view of the
skyline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He found this place for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor walked over to the kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was big enough to have an island, which
was covered with several aluminum foil-wrapped dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked Victor in the eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He pays the rent.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor could easily pay the rent…even purchase the building outright.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve told you before that Jon takes care of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want for nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That BMW you were laid up against that
night…he bought that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He makes sure I
have nice things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thought enough of
the location of this place and that view to convince the owners to convert it
into luxury apartments and lease one to him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor met her gaze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“This isn’t really a true apartment building.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Score one for the genius,” she said, pulling out three
large glass serving dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The top two
floors were eventually converted into luxury apartments, but it’s really an
office tower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I don’t have noisy
neighbors.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do I even want to know how Mr. Wonderful managed <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t be an asshole, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She put on a striped apron and began to portion the food onto the
serving dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor took another deep
breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are we eating?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Middle Eastern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ever
had roast lamb or saffron rice cooked with lime and raisins?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah that’s right,” she said, arranging the lamb skewers onto
a rice-laden dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You and Yang’s are
bffs.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t sleep on their dumplings,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Or their noodles.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I can’t eat that crap,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve had authentic Chinese food and I prefer
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lamb’s been roasted over a spit and the
bread soaks up the drippings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s
hummus, a green salad, and I picked up a fruit tray earlier today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have a seat in the dining room.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Can I help you carry anything?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You can grab the lamb rice platter and the salad bowl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He helped her bring the food to the table and she grabbed
two of her wine stems and water glasses and put them on the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“If you’ll get the Perrier out of the fridge
and the lemon slices…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s table seated six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She told Victor to sit on the side and she sat next to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s ridiculous for us to sit on the ends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dumbasses on TV do that shit,” she said,
grabbing a plate to fix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat it down
in front of him while he stared at her, trying to keep up with the sensory
overload.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra fixed her own plate and
asked him to open the wine while she poured Perrier over lemon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Let it breathe,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know,” he replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She removed her apron at some point in the kitchen, but made
no pretense about covering her lap with a huge napkin and covering her chest
with another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor looked at her
incredulously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You need a bib?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want any rice falling in my cleavage,” she said as
she ate a forkful of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Soon their
concentration was on the meal itself and Victor found he enjoyed it very much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This is good,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Restaurant name?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“El Habib’s,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“It’s listed with Sherpa’s.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be eating from there again,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He quickly realized that most of the food was
not necessarily conducive to knives and forks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The bread had to be torn and dipped and the lamb chunks were meant for
fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took his cue from Nedra who
ate gustily while carefully keeping her napkins in place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He smiled at her and she looked at him after
swallowing a chunk of lamb and bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re wearing
this knockout dress but eating with your fingers and sporting a bib.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t reconcile the two.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She reached over and ran her finger through his hummus and
sucked it off slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re not
supposed to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re meant to enjoy the
experience.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor looked at her finger and ran his own through her
hummus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He offered it to her and Nedra
waited the span of a heartbeat before opening her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both of them closed their eyes as she sucked
the hummus off his finger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she
turned her head back to her plate, which was mostly empty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You want some more?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor eyed her carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Of what, are you asking?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled sheepishly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Food.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No, I’m full.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
was delicious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She stood up, removed her napkins and poured them both a glass
of wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She gave Victor his glass and
sat back down, casually putting her foot on the edge of his chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor looked down at her bare foot,
realizing that her leg was bare and so was her thigh, and she didn’t look the
least bit fazed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took a long sip of
wine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Really Victor, don’t be ridiculous.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ve seen me naked, so don’t act all shocked and shaken
to see my bare leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not doing it to
entice you; I always prop my foot up on a chair or something when I’m sitting down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So let’s talk about why you wanted to have
dinner with me here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He took a deep breath and said the words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to spend time with you and get to
know you outside of that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want
to date you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to be with you,
Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You showed me something,
something I didn’t realize I needed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Which was?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you
bet not say love.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You gave me a bath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You touched
me with a certain level of tenderness and care and then you washed my hair with
gobs of shampoo and scratched my beard and scalp in a way that gave me an
emotional release.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You cared for me like
you cared about me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You didn’t have to
do all that, but you did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then you
cut my hair and shaved me with that same level of sensitivity.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She looked at his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His eyes were still closed, likely remembering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You wanted to kiss me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even in my—what did you call it—hot ass mess of a state, you wanted to
kiss me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You couldn’t recall the last time you’d been kissed, which
is a shame.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Which is why your kisses meant so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You took care of me, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You nurtured me; made me feel like I was
wanted and desirable.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">are</i>, sweet
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what I did for you is what I
do for Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t unnatural for me
to do what I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess I got that nurturing streak in
me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And I want it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
need it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“There are other women who are capable of that, Victor. You need to give one a chance.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want you, Nedra Roxanne Nix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want that with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>—need that from you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
remembered the feeds where Jon would lay with his head on her stomach—something
he did a lot—and her scratching his head and stroking his ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes they held each other for long
periods of time without speaking and she would run her hands up and down his
back and caress his neck while kissing the top of his head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He watched them kiss, slowly, tenderly, and sweetly, lying
with one another naked, fingers laced, staring into each others’ eyes, wordless
conversations taking place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The young
college student who placed the cameras had a real talent for putting the equipment
in optimal locations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched
them make love; watched Nedra give her body to Jon without preamble, argument
or discussion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never had to ask and
she was always ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
watched Jon worship Nedra’s body, kiss her scars, bury his face in her belly,
give her endless massages, kiss her feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He watched them dance, watched them play and play-fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He watched and watched and watched those few
days’ worth of film almost every night, extremely jealous of the recipient of Nedra’s
love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It fueled him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s next words were very quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want you to love me like you love him, but
in the way that works for us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra took the weight of his words with the seriousness they
required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was some time before she
could speak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She chose her words
carefully because she needed to be firm and truthful with Victor, but she didn’t want to
hurt his feelings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So you expect the same level of affection I give a man I
served in the Marine Corps with, fought with, shared secrets with, nearly lost
my life with…a man who, after I was honorably discharged, came looking for me
because he decided he couldn’t live without me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You want <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> and we’ve known
each other less than six months and shared nothing but a night of great, great
sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about what you’re asking for,
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want the reward of my heart
but you haven’t done anything to deserve it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He sipped his water slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I know it sounds crazy, but you told him I was.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, you have shown signs of instability in the
past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are irrational at times and
you know it. You engaged in behavior that should have gotten you arrested. So</span><span style="font-size: large;"> yes, you've driven past Crazy Town a couple of times, even if you don't want to claim residency."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That may be, but what I’m feeling and what I want
aren’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s that simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It always has been for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She poured a glass of wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“So I guess you’re applying for the position of jump off?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He looked at her and made a face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fuck no!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra took a long satisfying drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s all there is for you, sweet thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t accept that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tell me how to compete with Jon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know
you don’t like hearing that, Victor, but you can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All you can do is be you, do you and come at
me in a way I like that’s all you and only you…knowing that you’re entitled to
me only when I say so.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He glared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Something was off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This wasn’t
the Nedra of a few weeks ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re
right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">don’t</i> like hearing those words.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So that takes care of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s just enjoy the evening, then<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel like dancing with me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you dance?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stood up and held out her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come on, dance with me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra grabbed his hand and pulled him to his
feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t dance,” he said, still trying to process the
conversation, even as she led him into her living room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She grabbed the remote and turned up the
volume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Madonna’s “Justify My Love” was
playing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“With the way you can move those hips, you can dance a lot
better than you think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just laid everything out for you and you
turned me down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t want it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t want me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So that’s done then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we can relax and enjoy ourselves, maybe
actually become <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">friends</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put her arms around his neck and stepped
close so that her body pressed against his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor stood with his arms at his sides, staring at Nedra as if he’d
been hit over the head with a 2X4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She kissed his nose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You couldn’t keep your hands off my ass before tonight, so what
gives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you not like what I
said?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be a spoiled brat, Dr. von
Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should be grateful.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Grateful?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That I’m even willing to entertain you being my side dish.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You are?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra kissed his nose again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You are absolutely right in that there is something between us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s electric, it’s fire, it’s nuclear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am very attracted to you, as you well know,
and let’s be honest…you weren’t lying when you said that Jon’s gone too
much….and I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really</i> do need to have it
regularly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That night in my car brought
it all into sharp focus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You also said
that we shouldn’t stop having sex after that night because we’re so good at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a fashion, I agree with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come on and grab my ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
know you want to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like certain things
hard, if you’ll recall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You wanted to
explore what that means.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to
explore it with you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor couldn’t move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He just kept looking at Nedra as if he’d been tased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A wicked, devilish, sexy smile crossed those
luscious lips and all he could do was look at her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had basically bared his soul and all she
wanted was his body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Silence from a man who’s made it known that he would give
me what I wanted if I asked for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What’s going on, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I should go,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This night wasn’t going as planned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stepped back and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So you hear something you don’t like and now you want to pick up your
toys and run home?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
didn’t know what to think or what to say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He couldn’t even come up with a snarky clapback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra met his gaze and put her hands on her
hips as Madonna’s voice spun out between them seemingly in slow motion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">What are you gonna
do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk to me.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Tell me your
dreams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Am I in them?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Tell me your
fears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you scared?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Tell me your stories.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I’m not afraid of who
you are.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">We can fly.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Poor is the man whose
pleasure depends on the permission of another.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Love me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Love me.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I want to be your
baby.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Mmmmmn….yeeeaaaahhhhh…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh well,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You know where the door is.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
went into the dining room and began to clear the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a gamble baiting him like that; knowing
he was a can or two short of a six-pack, but she was tired of him acting like
Jon was a non-factor, especially after that stunt he pulled in China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was the boss of this business, the queen on
this chessboard, and she was going to protect her king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was her king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was her bishop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yes, she wanted Victor; she wasn’t going
to lie about it or deny herself of the unquestionable pleasure he could give
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told him back in his apartment
that she would have been proud to be his bad girl…as long as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">he</i> was cool being <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">her</i> jump-off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time,
she didn’t think it would actually happen, so then they were just words.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s perceptiveness brought a truth to the forefront:
Nedra’s love for Jon and her love of sex were dissonant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While she was usually able to keep her shit
together during his long absences, that illicit night with Victor stood out in
stark relief; a reminder of her raw need…even though Jon had been in the city
at the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the amount of time
she spent masturbating after Victor rolled up on her in the garage, and after
the night he ate her out…her need eclipsed her ability to keep it
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During their trip to China,
Nedra was all over Jon as much as their schedule allowed, and though he never
turned her away, she always put him to sleep way before she was completely
satisfied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor offered a solution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would have to figure out how to make the
situation work in a way that Jon would understand and accept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And she knew if her argument and logic were
sound, he would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She and Jon had been
through a lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wouldn’t deny her
anything she <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">needed</i>, so long as her
heart was true.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor didn’t move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was trying to process everything still, but he couldn’t take his eyes
off Nedra as she stacked dishes and took them into the kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After two trips, she refilled her wineglass
and turned to see him still standing there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Make up your mind, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do you want me or not?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What about Jon?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh, so <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">now</i> you’re
concerned about him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re going to cheat on a man you’ve been with for 18
years?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Technically, I already have, but as I’ve told you…he’s none
of your business.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor felt like he had a lump in his throat. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What</i>…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">happened</i>?”
he finally choked out, completely disrupted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">happened</i>, Nedra???<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For months, you wouldn’t give me so much as
an eye roll—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We kissed
and I allowed you to eat my pussy that night in my office.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…because you were so concerned about ruining your
relationship with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now all of a
sudden, you don’t care about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh sweetie,” she said, taking a long drink of wine,
“…there’s nothing that we as fuck buddies can do that will ruin Jon’s and my relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor glared at her, anger stirring deep inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What the fuck changed?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That bullshit-ass stunt you pulled at that cantina in
Hainan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you to go home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you to leave Shanghai.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you not to follow us; that I wouldn’t tolerate
your creepy behavior and what did you do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The exact damn opposite!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What did
you think that was going to accomplish?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Certainly not what he thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor looked at Nedra, standing about five
feet from him, looking simultaneously like his salvation and damnation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My first thought was to go over and shut that shit
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I waited. I held back. I
watched you with him just like you watched him with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when you finally left, I sat down and
pretended like nothing had happened even though I could tell something was off
with Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I didn’t worry because I
knew he would talk to me soon enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
ate our dinner and went for our nighttime beach stroll and he told me all about
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wanna know what he said?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was getting angry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He felt foolish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“’He’s got a crush on you, Roxy.’” Nedra took anther
sip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You know, like a high school
crush…the girl that you follow around school, fantasizing about what it would
be like to hold her hand and kiss her lips?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">That</i> kind of crush. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Juvenile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon thinks it’s cute.” Nedra took another sip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">That</i> was a brutal
blow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Does he know we fucked?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>
think?” She put her hands on her hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That
it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">matters</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then why were you so…uncomfortable…at the prospect of me
wanting to be with you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Because I forgot who <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i>
was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gave you control of this
situation because I do like you and am attracted to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do think about you when I get myself off
and you can fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like fucking you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I liked everything we did in your
apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had an aura of dirty cheapness
that appeals to my basic slutty nature; like if we met up at a discount
off-brand motel drug dealers and crackheads frequent and fuck like rabbits in a room with ugly curtains and a hideous bedspread, loud in our passion
and fucking up the bedsheets with our combined orgasms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got weak because
I gave you all the power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to
stay away from you because I was scared of doing exactly what I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But after you acted like a damn stunt queen, I remembered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m Nedra
Roxanne Nix and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> run my
motherfucking life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yeah, my desire
for you sidetracked the shit out of me because you’re <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>, you snarky asshole…but in the end,<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> I</i> decide if, when, and how we will interact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’ve decided that I want you to be my
jump-off.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor put his hands in his pockets and closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was furious and felt like he’d been
played.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you have to call it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Side dude, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or
item.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Call it whatever the hell you want, but <i>know that’s what you are</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you in the garage that your downfall
would be that you don’t listen to what I say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You didn’t listen and you refused to stay in your lane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you think I was going to let that slide?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I invited you to dinner for three reasons:
one, because you asked for it, two, because I wanted to spend time with you,
and the most important reason, number three…to let you know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">exactly</i> where you stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now you can do whatever you like with this
information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I see two options: you get
offended and leave and we never see each other again, or you come over here,
rip my clothes off and fuck my brains out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Or I meet you at your apartment, or we choose Option C: the shitty
motel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And agree to do it regularly as
long as Jon’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was impossibly beautiful and in spite of her sharp tone, she didn’t
look the least bit angry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, Nedra
looked perfectly unbothered and Victor really didn’t know how to take her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Since we’re being truthful and all…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra swung a leg and the anklet glinted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“May as well be, sweet thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want to share you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I told you that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you all
to myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got a real problem being at
your beck and call and not being around you when he’s here, especially when I
want you the way I do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“But you said you would be. You said you’d do whatever I
want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You said you had it bad for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spite of
everything, he did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s power could
not be denied, but damn it…he didn’t want to share her with anyone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He</i>
wanted to be the man in her life; the one she danced with, laughed at, made a
home for…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re
being petulant when you could be letting me kiss your lips or suck your
dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are we doing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">here</i>, Victor, when we could be doing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She started removing the hairpins that secured her braids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was so sexy standing there in that bad-ass
Kenneth Cole with his pretty lips poked out, looking like somebody kicked his
dog or talked bad about his mother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She put her hands on her hips and shook her braids
loose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor turned and walked towards
the front door, grabbing his jacket from the coat tree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed the door handle and turned it,
pulling it open an inch…a million thoughts racing through his mind the whole
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the first time he’d ever
had the tables turned on him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the
first time he’d ever been bested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
was the first time he’d ever really been outsmarted; hoist by his own petard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had an objective, a plan of action…a
methodology that would have gotten him what he wanted had it been allowed to
play out as he willed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had the
game board set up, rigged in his favor…and what did that gorgeous, diabolical
bitch do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn over the goddamn table
and change the motherfucking game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He squeezed his eyes shut so he didn’t have to see the flaws
in his thought process, but his heart beat hard and he took two deep breaths to
steady his pulse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t moved from
the door, but the handle was firm and hard in his hand and a different reality
awaited him on the other side of the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A reality without Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A reality he didn’t want.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When Victor opened his eyes, he was erect and his mind was
full of vivid memories.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #ead1dc; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">‘I’d give you the time you require; I’d do every dirty, nasty
thing you like. I’d be your bad girl and proud to be
so. You’d have your own place in the Promised Land and I’d make sure
Jon wouldn’t have access to it.’ </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stood in her living room, drinking her wine,
waiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She untied the bow that held
her drawstring dress closed and fiddled with the stereo controls. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put the wineglass down and shook out her
hair once more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor,” she said in a low, seductive voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t be difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Close the door.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He stood at the door a moment longer, head beginning to hurt
with pounding truth and his dick grew harder with each second.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">‘I’d do every dirty, nasty thing you like.’ </span> <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">“Come here.” Her voice was husky
and sexy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to make love to you.”</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #ead1dc; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">‘I’d be your bad girl and proud to be so.’</span></i><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor closed the door and locked both deadbolts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The clicks cut through the tense silence,
locking him inside her world physically and metaphorically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t think of anywhere he wanted to be
at the moment other than buried deep inside Nedra’s sweet, hot pussy. As if in agreement,
his dick twitched.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">‘You’d have your own place in the Promised Land and I’d make sure
Jon wouldn’t have access to it.’</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He dropped his jacket and turned around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the space of the three or so minutes in
which he’d had his fit of pique before coming to his senses, Nedra modified her
appearance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck
it all, she was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">stunning</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That cream silk dress was in stark contrast
to her immaculate dark skin and her hair, her expression…Jesus, the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">look</i> in her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tonight, the Marine, the research chemist,
was all predator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An apex predator. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">And he was her prey.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Did you mean what you said?” he asked, walking towards her,
drawn by her sheer feminine magnetism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve said a lot of things to you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t move as he came closer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His dark eyes swept up and down, over and
around, through and through and he was so aroused it was starting to ache.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That you’d be my bad girl and do every nasty thing I
like?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Closer still, maybe three or four
steps away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s lips curved in a smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I meant it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Even closer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I get
my own place in the Promised Land…one <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">he</i>
can’t get to?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra allowed her fingers to glide over one silk-covered
breast and her nipple popped up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
began to trace it while looking at Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Figure out the reaction mechanism to get you there, and that particular
sweet spot is yours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All yours.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra still felt like dancing, so she picked up the remote
and hit SHUFFLE and Tito & Tarantula’s “After Dark” came on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then you win,” he said, stopping six inches in front of
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His expression and body language
was that of defeat, but he really didn’t have it in him to fight her…and what
was the point?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was giving him something…something
good, something he wanted.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Watching her strolling in the night</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>So white</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Wondering why its only after dark</i></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed the distance and put her arms around his
neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">We</i>
win.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she kissed his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Now grab my ass and quit playing, boy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor grabbed her ass roughly and pushed her crotch into
his erection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra pecked his lips,
smiling as she began moving to the beat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Dance with me, sweet thing.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>In her eyes a distant fire light</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Burns bright</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Wondering why its only after dark</i></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He fell into step with her and they moved around her living
room, eyes locked, holding on to each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra ran the back of her fingers over his beard, closing her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t deny me and I won’t deny you,
okay?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><i>I find myself in her room</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><i>Feel the fever of my doom</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><i>Falling falling through the floor</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><i>I'm knocking on the Devil's door</i></span></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra suddenly moved away from him and finished untying the
knot that held her dress closed, opened it and began gyrating her hips as she
came out of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her braids swung back
and forth to Victor’s silent, painfully erect delight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her lingerie was the same color as that
glorious dress, but so sheer he could see right through it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thought he could come from the sight of
her like that alone. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Goddess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorceress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her Motherfucking Majesty.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Burning burning in the flame</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Now I know her secret name</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>You can tear her temple down</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>But she'll be back and rule again</i></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He closed the brief distance and gripped her ass hard enough
that he hoped his fingers left bruises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra’s breath caught and she smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That was where they were now, as far as he was concerned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Likewise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m done asking for your kisses or anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll give me whatever I want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She put hands on his beard and kissed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Of course.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her back, hands in their usual
position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra eyed him seductively and
began to unbutton his shirt and unfasten his trousers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pushed his shirt over his shoulders and
rubbed her cheek against his chest hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor threw his head back and groaned while coming out of the Brooks
Brothers like a man possessed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed
to be naked and up against her ASAP.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra unhooked her bra, freeing those dark and lovely
beauties to rub against Victor’s chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He closed his eyes and squeezed her ass as she gyrated against him in
time to the music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put her hands
back on his cheeks and kissed him again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He delighted in the taste of her lips…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">finally</i>…and took his time savoring the fullness, the curve, the
softness…everything he loved about her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her tongue dipped around the back of his teeth, teasing his tongue even
as her fingernails gently scratched his beard before winding into his
hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she slid her fingers through
the soft, glossy strands, he pushed into her hard enough that she could feel
the heat of his erection through his clothes.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>In my heart a deep and dark</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>And lonely part wants her and</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Waits for after dark</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>After dark, after dark, after dark</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra cradled his cheeks once more, kissed him again, then sank
to her knees and unzipped his pants before moving them over his hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was salivating at the thought of giving
him head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He might have been nuts about
the honey between her legs, but she was equally crazy about his dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was just cooler with her need than he was
with his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor shut his eyes as she
closed her full, beautiful lips around the head. He was already leaking
pre-ejaculate and the sight of her pink tongue darting out to capture the drops
made him grab his own hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She attacked
the frenulum with sweet baby licks and circled his head before kissing the tip
and briefly taking him inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Nedra</i>…” he
moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hadn’t even gotten started
and he felt like he wouldn’t last long at all, but he had to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had to have that mouth all over his
dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor recalled the last time she sucked
his dick and put his hands on top of her head so he could watch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra covered his head with more sweet kisses
and baby licks, loosening her jaw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was her plan to deep-throat this sexy, sexy man and show him exactly some of
what he could expect as her jump-off and his nasty bad girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he slowly filled her mouth and the back of
her throat, Nedra closed her eyes and adjusted her head to take more of him and
it felt…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i>…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">good</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This thing could work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If he acted like a man and accepted things on her terms, there was no
reason they couldn’t enjoy one another and more than just sexually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though it was cliché, she had
needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All kinds of needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And he had needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no reason why their needs couldn’t
be mutually satisfied…and none of it would come close to touching Jon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ummn</i>,” she moaned
before beginning to move her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon
loved her head skills and she loved giving it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor could be thusly blessed…if he acted right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s fingers were spread wide over the back of her head
and it was taking every ounce of control not to face-fuck Nedra but he held on,
barely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mainly because to do so would have
disrupted the marvelous tongue action she was putting down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She deep-throated him and his knees were
getting weaker and weaker and he didn’t know how much longer he could go
without skeeting...and unless Nedra didn’t believe in being a quitter, she was
about to get a mouthful of fresh warm semen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Which she did, after about thirty more seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor fell to his knees, staring at Nedra as
she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and licked her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stretched prettily and grinned at
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You taste almost as good as I
do.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He fell back on the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She stood up, completely not trying to hide the wet splotch in her
panties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra walked over to the table
and grabbed her wine, downing the rest of the red in one gulp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She filled her glass once more, flipped
SHUFFLE on the remote and smiled at the half-naked genius engineer on her
living room floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Count Cutie indeed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stood and drank her wine, grinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was laid out in the middle of her living
room looking like he’d been slain in the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Please tell me that’s not all you have in you tonight,” she
teased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She raised the glass to
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Have some?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you hear me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you able to function?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please baby…the answer better be a yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor opened his eyes and looked up at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was standing over him, his glorious
Amazon, deifying every known adjective for beauty, power and femininity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her obvious arousal wafted down into his nose
and he just lay there, enjoying the view from the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a sight to behold!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Had Jon ever seen her from this angle?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You all right?” she asked, squatting over him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A song was playing, one he was familiar with, but could not
quite place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I need a minute,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I didn’t think you’d do that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You let me outta my
secret grave/you let your pretty world in<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t tell me you’re one of those men who think sistahs
don’t suck dick.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know I don’t, considering that you’ve already given me
a couple of awesome blowjobs…but that one was…I’m seriously going to need a
moment, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She drank the last of the wine and put the glass on the
floor beyond his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I love giving
head,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I will suck a dick down
anytime, anyplace.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She smiled, thinking
of how many times Jon randomly got got on their excursions…and never ever
stopped her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve been sucking dick
since high school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love it; it makes
me feel sexy and gets me so hot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love
bringing men to their knees.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Now you’re in my
world/did you dream it’d be so small<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">My little box was
perfect/until you destroyed it all<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her, all kinds of wicked thoughts in mind
as he gazed at her masterful mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
was going to put <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> to the test.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You don’t really want to turn all this down, do you?” she
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re good with it, right?” She
reached down and ran a finger over his lips and then gently scratched his
beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He captured her hand and kissed her finger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I would have to be out of my goddamned mind
to give you up under any circumstances, Nedra.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not after <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>…and to hear how
much she liked it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh hell no.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You feel that way about my cherry pie, don’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">My sanctity of sorrow
gone/forever in its place<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The saccharine sweet
of you/is all that’s left to taste<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes,” he said, thinking of the last taste of it he
had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I will eat the fuck out of that
pie every day and night if you let me…even come by and have some for lunch.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t about to stay away from her lab anymore;
though he would wait for everyone to leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was going to get fucked at work now, whether she liked the idea of
it or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was going to meet her at
her car at night after work and enact those fantasies too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever she wanted to be treated like a
cheap slut, there were plenty of shitty motels in the vicinity he could take
her to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Suddenly the idea of being Nedra’s side dude didn’t seem so
off-putting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was so much they <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">could</i> do…stuff he’d never thought of.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Feeling
claustrophobic/now my world’s closing in<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Subtle
retribution/where I am where I’ve been<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grabbed Victor’s pants and told him to lift his
hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pulled off his trousers and
repeated the act with his shorts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wanted him naked and straddled him, putting her nose to his and nuzzled him
while pressing her wet panties against his semi-turgid penis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I’ll take you to a
place/you never knew you could be<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Curled up, in my
little box<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Have you had your moment, sweet thing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because the Promised Land is waiting.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A/N: Lyrics to
“Justify My Love” belong to Ingrid Chavez and Lenny Kravitz. Lyrics to "After Dark" belong to Tito Larriva and Steven Hufsteter. Lyrics to "My Little Box" belong to Gabriel Mann & John Frizzell. No infringement intended.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Justify My Love" -Madonna</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"After Dark" -Tito & Tarantula</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Shhh!" -Prince</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Baby, Come to Me" -Regina Bell</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Fool of Me" -Meshelle Ndegeocello</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Cherry Pie" -Warrant</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"My Little Box" -Gabriel Mann & John Frizzell</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-7.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-27223884366145939612016-05-02T07:37:00.000-07:002016-05-04T22:14:19.055-07:00Lovesick (5/?)<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick-4.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">5: Secret Heart</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor followed them to Hainan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had a suite at the Renaissance Sanya
Resort, and so did he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But he would try
to keep his distance; he didn’t want to Nedra to be creeped out by his
actions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just the opposite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So he did his best to be inconspicuous but
also keep an eye on the loving couple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Watching them was a very enlightening experience and it drew him into
introspection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was a devoted
researcher, but she had a full life outside of that lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The realization gave Victor pause and made him think about
himself, Reed and Sue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Johnny had a life
as far as Victor knew; he was an adrenaline junkie who was being forced by his
father to participate in the project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But him and the others…they lived, breathed, and ate their work, and
while that was necessary in order to achieve needed breakthroughs, it wasn’t a
full life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was no longer sure it
was even a happy one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was just what
he did—what they did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The work was what
mattered; the questions that drove them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was true of Nedra as a research chemist, but somewhere along the
line, she found a way to balance her work and personal life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew how to enjoy herself and not be
wholly consumed by her research.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This was something Victor had to seriously consider if he really
wanted Nedra. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If his goal was for her to
choose him, he had to learn how to achieve a similar balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He supposed he could; he had certainly taken
time away from the transporter work to follow her halfway around the world…but could
he have fun with her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What kind of fun
could they have?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t let her get
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bored</i>; not when she had a mate who
was as adventurous and spontaneous as she clearly was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra and Jon knew how to enjoy themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They snorkeled, swam in the ocean,
parasailed, took boat rides, explored caves and traveled zip lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They did whatever activity took their
fancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">engaged</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes they ate
at the nice resort restaurants; other times they found cheap bars and slummed a
little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor realized that there
wasn’t anything they as a couple wouldn’t try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was disheartening as he recalled Nedra saying that Jon was her
perfect match.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could he compete with
that?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He’d figure it out, that was for sure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">One particular night, they were at a beachside cantina with
live musicians.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra looked very
pretty; she wore a flowy, sleeveless green dress and her braids were styled
becomingly and she wore a huge flower tucked behind one ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were sitting near the makeshift stage,
closer than close, enjoying the live music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The band was a simple duo: a guitar player and drummer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The music wasn’t amazing; they were doing
covers, but the booze was flowing, the food was good, and it was a beautiful
night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">To hype the crowd, one of the musicians invited a guest to come
to the stage and do a little improv.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
was sitting as far back as he could, actually enjoying the atmosphere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he noticed Nedra stand up and grab Jon’s
hand and pull him toward the stage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He
can play,” she said, grinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon turned
and kissed her on the lips before walking up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You got a song in mind, patna?” the guitarist asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You play?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked at Nedra and she beamed, mouthing the words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he looked at the guitarist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The musician nodded and removed his guitar from his shoulder
and presented it to Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Have at it,
then.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He adjusted the mic to Jon’s
height as Jon put the guitar on and adjusted the strap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was still standing and clapped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go for it, baby!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She loved it when he got all musical, for it
was rare.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon tuned the guitar and when he was satisfied, nodded to
the drummer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he began with a wicked
riff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drummer recognized the riff
immediately and dropped the beat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
jumped up and down and began to sing along with Jon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“When you’re dead and
in your grave/no more women will you crave<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The audience clapped along and Victor had to admit the man
had a decent voice and could play very well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra let out a yelp of joy and began moving her hips to the beat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon looked at her and smiled as she continued
to mouth the words to his sing-along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Trust you in my
home/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Trust you in my
home/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know I trust you
in my home/you wouldn’t leave my poor wife alone<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon went into the guitar solo and played it like a
boss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra moved back and forth, shaking
her hips, clapping and whistling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
of the patrons were paying more attention to her than Jon’s performance;
clapping and wolf-whistling at the braided beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon’s playing started drawing a crowd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You asked my wife to
wash your clothes/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You asked my wife to
wash your clothes/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You asked my wife to
wash your clothes/and something else I suppose<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"WHOOOOOO!" Nedra yelled.</span></span><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be oh so glad
when you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be so glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be standing on a
corner full of gin/when they bring your dead body in<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be glad when
you’re dead/you rascal you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon ended the song much as he began it and Nedra led the
rest of the audience in a round of applause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon removed the guitar and handed it back to the musician, who gave him
a hearty handshake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That wasn’t bad, guy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You play for real?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Naah,” Jon said, bringing Nedra in for a hug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just for kicks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My girl loves that song.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well that’s disappointing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We could have turned this into a trio tonight.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon shrugged, grinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Maybe with someone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks
for letting me play. Don’t do it much.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What’s your name?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon
Holland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this is my lady, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
Artis and that’s Mike.” He nodded towards the drummer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The rest of your drinks for the night are on
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks for being a great sport.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“For free drinks?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bet
your ass,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The audience
clapped for him once more as he and Nedra took their seats.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When they sat back down, Nedra planted a juicy kiss on his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was hoping we’d run up on something like
this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love hearing you play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I love that damn song.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m sorry I don’t get to do it enough for you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems like there’s just not enough time to
do everything we want to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Aw, it’s no big deal,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But I love that you did it for me tonight.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The waitress brought them their drinks: pretty, frothy
colorful combinations sure to knock a lightweight on their ass…which neither
Jon nor Nedra were.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then Nedra excused
herself and Jon perused the menu, thinking about what they wanted to eat. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was hungry. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After this, they were going to take a
nighttime stroll and get up to whatever shenanigans they could for two more
days before heading back to New York.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon had to be in Kosovo in ten days and he wasn’t thrilled to be leaving
Nedra again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was the way their
lives had been for four years, and she never complained.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">They spoke of marriage earlier in their relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jonathan would have been fine—proud—to put
papers on Nedra, but Nedra was against it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She believed that marriage ruined relationships due to the weight of
unmet expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their relationship
as it is was uncomplicated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He worked
crazy jobs for long periods of time and she’d go weeks without seeing him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could get caught up in her research and
work crazy hours and there would be days when they barely communicated via
text.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She said that they were both free
to do exactly as they pleased, but once they got married, circumstances
dictated differently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon knew her
parents divorced when she was in high school and she felt a kind of way about
it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra asked him if he wanted to get married; if he would be
happier if they were man and wife, and he told her he didn’t want anything she
didn’t want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She promptly said that she
was perfectly happy being his longtime love and life partner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that was that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I need to go to the ladies’ room,” she said in his
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Order for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something seafoody and fried.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“All right,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra kissed his cheek, grabbed her bag and went hunting for
the cantina restroom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor watched her go, rubbing his lips with his
fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He waited a moment, then he got
up and walked towards their table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon
was perusing the menu carefully as he sipped on a beer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Excuse me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he gave Victor a once-over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I know you from somewhere?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Actually you do,” Victor said, extending his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We met in Shanghai, in an elevator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The name is Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon shook his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jon
Holland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are you doing here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tour of China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Been
to Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and this is my last stop before I head back
west.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
remember you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“If you’ll forgive me,” Victor said, “I have to admit that our
origins go back farther than that elevator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know your girlfriend.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon put the menu down, curious. “You know Roxy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know her as Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dr. Nedra Nix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s a research
chemist at the Baxter Building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And a
ex-Marine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Former Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who
are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor von Doom.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon leaned back and folded his arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Keep talking.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m the one Franklin Storm sent Nedra to recruit that
night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re</i> the
asshole that took her phone and hung up on me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor shrugged, palms out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Guilty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was in the process
of convincing me to go back to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
didn’t want to, but her arguments were compelling before you called.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Apparently it took a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a date that night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I was rude to her,” Victor said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m an asshole; I’ll own that, and I was
giving her a lot of grief and hostility because I didn’t want to go back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My last stint there didn’t end well and…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Roxy explained that you’d been a shut-in by choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that you were nuttier than a pack of Snickers.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor smirked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is
that how she described me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She said you were being extremely difficult, but she’s
loyal to Dr. Storm and will do anything he asks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her success rate in accomplishing his tasks is
100%, but she did say you were her toughest assignment.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Guilty again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
gotta tell you something, though.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon picked up his beer and took a drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Truth is, I thought she was hot and used every trick I
could think of to keep her around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Before she walked into my house, I hadn’t had any contact with any real
live people for three years.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon’s expression had not changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is that right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And in strolls this gorgeous woman, strapped with a gun and
knife and threatened to use both on me if I didn’t go with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had an instant response.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sounds
like my Roxy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She rarely went unarmed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I thought she was sexy as hell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like a dream; I was playing Modern
Warfare and listening to the Goldberg Variations while dicking around in an
engineering chat room when she came calling, representing the USMC with layers
of pride and I admit, I wanted her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We’re both former Marines,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">of
course</i> you did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know who and what
Roxy is, and I’ve seen men lose their shit over her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But as I told you in the elevator, I trust
her so it doesn’t matter if you wanted her that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You still want her because you’re here now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m no dummy, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You practically eye-fucked her in the
elevator and that makes this impromptu meeting quite suspect.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just
thought we should meet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never expected
to run into you guys again and when I saw your performance—which was solid, by
the way, I was compelled to come up. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where is she?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She made a ladies’ run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She’ll be back soon.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon paused
for a long moment then extended his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Well, we’ve met, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pleasure talking to you, but I gotta order a meal for Roxy and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Safe travels.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor shook his hand, understanding that Jon had nothing more
to say to him. “Same to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good
night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He got up and went back into his corner seat, settling down
with tequila as the duo geared up for another set.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was on her way back to her seat when she saw Jon
talking to Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anger twisted her
features as she wondered two things: one—what in the fuck was he still doing in
China when she told his crazy ass to go home, and two—what the fuck was he
doing talking to Jon?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Part of her wanted to march over there and shut his bullshit
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But another part, her deeper self,
her secret heart, told her to wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor was up to something and whatever it was, Jon wasn’t especially
pleased about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra balled her
fists and thought about going over to Victor and knocking him clean the fuck
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could do it with one
punch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Better her than Jon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A punch from Jon would put him in the
hospital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But maybe the asshole deserved
it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">dare</i> he ignore her wishes?!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Calm down, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t rush into this; think about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t show your hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t let him see you sweat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think of what he said and then think of
logical countermoves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever they
talked about, Jon will tell you if he deems it worthy for you to know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll deal with Victor in
time and in your own way. </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Soon, Victor left and she watched him go back to his seat in
the rear of the cantina.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
straightened her face and went back over to her seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was studying the menu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra sat down and rubbed his arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are we eating, baby?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I was thinking about this fried seafood platter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s got fish, clams, shrimp, hush puppies,
and crab cakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Side of corn on the cob
and roasted potatoes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Aw,
that sounds great!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He looked at her and kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Done and done, my love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One platter?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I can ask them to double the shrimp and fish.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And
then what do you saw we walk back to our hotel?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He took a long drink of beer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ll say yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra scratched the back of his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, whatever Victor’s insane ass said
bothered him enough that the usual smile he had was absent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon held Nedra’s sandals in one hand and her hand in the
other as they walked back to their hotel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You remember that guy in Shanghai?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one in the elevator?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you know him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you
remember that scientist I was sent to recruit?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The asshole who hung up on you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He came over
to me while you were gone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah, he described the night you came over to recruit him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which makes it interesting that you didn’t
have more to say to him in the elevator that night?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Babe, I had two things on my mind that night…and Victor
wasn’t either of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It actually kind
of surprised me that he was there and I didn’t have anything to say other than
hello.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was trying to get you back to
the hotel and have my way with you."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He likes you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact, ‘like’ may be too light a term.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>‘Crush’ comes closer, but I think there’s a shady undercurrent to his.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Roxy, he followed you from New York.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It certainly wasn’t <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i> he was chasing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s like
a kid in high school with a crush on the head cheerleader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kind that follows her around covertly,
wondering what it would be like to kiss her and hold her hand, and maybe think less than savory thoughts about what it would be like to have her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, he made no secret about his attraction
to you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Honestly Jon, once I got him back to work, I never gave him
another thought.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was mostly true.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I got a
question, Roxy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra enjoyed the feel of the sand between her toes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their hotel was not far away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What is it, baby?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you find him attractive?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Keria calls him Count Cutie because he’s from
Latveria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, he’s attractive enough,
I guess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why are you asking?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>,
Jon, if you’re concerned.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Baby, in ten days I’ll be in Kosovo, and likely there for
six or more weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have been
unbelievable since I’ve been home and some times I feel like I can’t keep up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“But you have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You satisfy the hell out of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve never heard me complain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s going on, baby?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He stopped, squeezing her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra turned to face him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Baby…what’s going on?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was even more pissed with Victor now,
seeing Jon’s expression. What in the hell did he say to him?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I love you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You were my friend through some rough times and somewhere between Iraq
and Afghanistan, you became my heart…and after Afghanistan, you left the Corps and you left me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She caressed his face, remembering why she had to leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Jonathan, what’s going on?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What’s this all about?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want to lose you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I’m not fair to you either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How can I be when I’m overseas half the time? I know you, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know your heart is mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> But </span>I never had to confront the reality of
another man wanting you even though I know they do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tonight was the first time that’s ever
happened, and if he is persistent enough, thirsty enough, to follow you halfway
around the world, he’s tenacious enough to try and seduce you. He will come for you hard.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon???”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you want me to say, Roxy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The look in his eyes when he talked about you…as
a man, I know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve had it before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I've seen it in others. But y</span>ou work together.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not really.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, we
both work at the Baxter, but my lab is underground across the street…and he’s
working on an enormous project on the upper floors of the building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never see him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never see anyone other than Franklin, some
members of the board and my staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t want to put words in your mouth, but what is it you’re trying to say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What will you do if he comes at you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What…do you mean if he hits on me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he asks me out?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put her arms around her man and tiptoed to kiss his
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Send him on his fucking way, what
do you think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">John put a hand on her ass and squeezed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He doesn’t seem to be the kind to give up
easily. I mean, he's <i>here</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She hadn’t helped matters by sleeping with the man in the first place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jon, we’ve been together officially as
couple for how long?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Ten years.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she
left the Corps and moved to California to finish her education, it did not take
long for him to find her and tell her everything, including how he felt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Friends…for how much longer?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Eight.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And have you ever had to worry about me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well I’ve never met a man bold enough to follow you halfway
around the world; a man who clearly desires you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His thirst is real.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s a man who gives me the impression that
he’ll do just about anything if it gets him what he wants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But as I told him, I trust you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jonathan, I want you to talk and let all this out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re holding back and there’s something you
need to say, but maybe it is uncomfortable for you to speak the words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if you can’t tell <i>me</i> what’s in your
secret heart, who can you tell?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want to lose you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know you hold back while I’m gone, but I’m not stupid, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve been together far too long for me not
to understand who you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love that
your love for me keeps your needs in check, but what will you do if a man like
that…a man who desires you so much that he will chase you around the world…puts
you in a situation where maybe you can’t…no matter how strong I know you are.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She flashed back to that night in her office. Her ability to fight Victor off had been about as strong as wet Kleenex, but </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stood and let Jon continue to talk.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It was obvious that Victor’s chat had an
inward, ugly effect on Jon and it was having one on her…one of anger.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fucking him was, in hindsight, not one of her
best decisions…but what that decision was not going to do was upset the man in front of her.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Things
clarified for her in an instant.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">After Jon divested himself of his fears, worries, and concerns,
Nedra put her arms around him and held him close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jonathan Samuel Holland, there is nothing
and no one that will ruin us, not after what happened in Afghanistan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things went to shit and we hated each other
for a time, but we came out of it fine; stronger even.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You think there is anything worse than what
happened to us over there?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hell no</span>!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I never hated you, Roxy…but I understood your hate for
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though that part of our lives
is over, I need you to continue to be happy with me, with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to keep you satisfied by any means
necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll do anything for you,
Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll give up anything for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You gave up <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everything</i> for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t you
worry, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s go back to the hotel
and take a shower.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grabbed his hand and they continued their walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once back in their suite, she opted to run a
bath in the huge garden tub that sat underneath the window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was raw and a shower wasn’t going to come
close to giving him the emotional care he required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes the memories of Afghanistan crept
back up at the weirdest times; more so for him than for her, even though the
physical trauma was mostly hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra knew
that Jon continued to carry the guilt of what happened to her, even though she
absolved him of it and loved him even more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Later, in bed, she held on to him, singing "Endless Love" while stroking his hair
as he jackknifed around her body and slept in her arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In her arms, there were no worries, no
nightmares, and no bad feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
was nothing but her love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took a
long time for Nedra to fall asleep and she allowed herself to shed a few tears
for her man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> was what
Victor would never be able to see, touch or even understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor returned to New York the next day and went back to
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He soon discovered that there was
fuckery afoot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were significant
changes made to the design of the transporter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor had not been pleased to discover an alteration in its
structure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reed claimed “they made it
ugly” and he and Victor had hard words as to why Reed didn’t stand up and
insist they maintain the original design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was sleeker, more aerodynamically sound…but the fucking government
and their tendency to cut fucking corners made the transporter look like a Mars
lander and Victor took one look at it and calculated the problems the new
design would cause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And counted the
cost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor rolled his eyes at frustration, wondering what
possessed Franklin and Sue to go hunting for help at a fucking high school
science fair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reed was brilliant, sure,
but he was young and didn’t have a ball to his name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So Victor went to Franklin to ask for the
transporter to be returned to its original design…debates and push back from
Dr. Allen ensued and that kept him busy for several weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was grateful for the continuous work the
redesign engineering took because it kept his mind off Nedra and everything he
learned while in China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He thought of her at night, alone in bed…and sometimes found
himself looking for relief and release at a bar not far from Baxter…he
remembered her name this time; a married redhead named Chloe, vivacious, curvy
and up front.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chloe had a hotel nearby;
she was in New York on business and wanted to try on some new strange.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was lovely and when she put her hand down
inside Victor’s pants while at the bar, he discovered quickly that he was down
for whatever she wanted to get up to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Three good protected nights with Chloe and then she was gone and he was
back to his usual, but with her business card in his wallet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Chloe satisfied the basest of needs and took the edge off so
that he could work, but once she was gone, he was alone at night again with
memories of Nedra…and not just memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One of the tasks he’d paid for was to have covert sound and video wired
in Jon’s house while he and Nedra were in Shanghai. Unfortunately, Jon left for
his next assignment in Kosovo a few days after they got back, and so he had
only a little bit data to analyze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor watched the feeds at night; watched them interact in
much the same way they had in Shanghai.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Whenever they were on the couch, enjoying TV time (they were fans of
Netflix and Amazon Prime), Jon kept his head in her lap and she would gently
scratch his head and play with his ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To Victor’s chagrin, there was a lot of time they spent where they
didn’t talk much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank God he had the
video so he could see what they did instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The love they had for each other was all over the
place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ease and comfort at which
they interacted could not be faked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
Nedra adored Jon was as clear as the moon on a dark night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That Jon loved her beyond reason was even
clearer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it didn’t mean anything to
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could never be Jon, but he
could compete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had his own ways of
sweeping Nedra off her feet, especially after learning some of the secrets of
her private life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her nurturing nature he’d already experienced to an extent;
the night she gave him a bath and then trimmed his hair and beard, graced him
with magnificent kisses, curled that soft warm body against his and made him
long for things he didn’t even know he could want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sex—while unbelievable—was secondary to
the intimacy and he craved it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Watching
her love her man made him want it and her even more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He wanted that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He needed that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You Rascal You” -Hanni El Khatib<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The Body That Loves You” –Janet Jackson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re All I Need to Get By” –Marvin Gaye & Tammi
Terrell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Forever In My Life” –Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“By Your Side” -Sade<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You Don’t Have to Cry” -Chante Moore & Kenny Lattimore<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"Endless Love" -Diana Ross & Lionel Richie</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-6.html" target="_blank">next</a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-80449653607469555202016-04-30T00:03:00.000-07:002016-05-02T07:38:57.827-07:00Lovesick (4/?)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick-3.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">4: Easy Conversation</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon fell on the bed and went right to sleep after they had
sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra smiled at him, knowing how he
felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was not going to be long in
joining him; she needed to wash her face and tie down her braids before getting
into bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And her new dress—if it could
still be called that—was still twisted around her body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She thought she would take a quick, quick
shower before getting into bed beside him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sat on the toilet, lid down, as she waited for her
legs to quit shaking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t as bad
as the first time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
removed her dress and stockings, and after a moment or two longer, got up and
went to the mirror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her legs were still weak, but she could at least stand this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That Erotic V was no fucking joke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wanted to thank Victor for showing her
the position, because Jon hit it clean out of the park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of her shoes was in the bedroom; she had
no idea where she’d lost the other one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
stared in the bathroom mirror, a serene glow in her cheeks and her eyes were
lit up in the way only Jon could manage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He liked it too, but when he finally put her down, he was exhausted and
told her he had to go to sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra briefly recalled her last time with the V; how she’d
wanted to go right to sleep after Victor fucked her brains out, but she
couldn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wouldn’t allow herself the
luxury of the rest her body needed after all of the…stress…he put her
through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to get away from him;
the man had tentacles and if she didn’t leave right then, while he was on the
floor trembling in aftershocks, she probably would have been stuck in his
apartment for another day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She stared in the mirror, preening, debating on which man
was better at the V.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra couldn’t
decide, because even though the position was the same, the physics was
different due to Jon being taller and more massive than the slender, yet
surprisingly strong Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They filled
her differently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was well endowed
but Victor was bigger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sex was good both
ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sighed, satisfied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her phone rang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
ran out into the bedroom and grabbed it before it woke Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t recognize the number and declined
to answer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra brought it back into
the bathroom and ran water to wash her face when the phone rang again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She looked at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe it was work-related.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
happened sometimes; she’d just gotten a shitload of cash and maybe someone from
up on high wanted to talk about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So she
adjusted her braids and answered as she ran water over a washcloth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This is Dr. Nedra Nix.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That was cute,” Victor said, his voice laced with jealous sarcasm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra glared at her phone and turned off the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are you doing here?” she hissed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That little performance in the club…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> was cute too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you
enjoy fucking with men’s emotions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d
better warn you that can be dangerous.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Who the hell are you to tell—” Nedra realized her voice was
getting loud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Hold on a moment,” she
said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She went into the bedroom and grabbed Jon’s shirt, put it
on, and went out onto the balcony, closing the door so that she wouldn’t wake
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she put the phone to her ear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What the fuck are you doing in <i>Shanghai</i>, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What the fuck are you doing sharing something that belongs
to us with him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra pulled back from the phone and stared at it
stupidly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she back-waved her hand and
side-eyed the phone before it putting back to her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched her dismiss him and he was
gripped with anger and jealousy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What are you doing and why are you doing it?” she
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What were you doing at the
club…at our hotel?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you following
me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That belonged to you and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gave that to you and you gave it to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She clearly wasn’t making the connection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re stalking me!” she hissed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This shit <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">will not fly</i>, Victor von Doom!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra started pacing back and forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You need to cease and desist or I will kick your ass, do you hear me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re a liar,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’ve lied to someone you’re supposed to love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is that how you treat a man you’ve been with
for 18 years?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">HE</i> is none of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">YOUR</i> business, damn it!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right at that moment she walked into the
railing and stubbed her toe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Shit!!!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></i>Immediately she began hopping on one foot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Damn it, Victor!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor smiled as he watched her injure herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t help being petty; her hurting
herself was immediate karma, but then he wondered if she was okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What happened?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I stubbed my toe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fucking with you, I stubbed my damned toe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i>AND CHIPPED THE POLISH</i>!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Arrrgh</i>,
you’re a complete dickshit and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I HATE</i>
I ever laid eyes on you!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“But you
weren’t saying that when I had my face shoved between your legs, partaking of the
fruit of the Promised Land.” He licked his lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra hopped over to the balcony table and sat in the chair
after glancing in the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon had gotten
under the covers and lay on his stomach, one arm hanging off the bed and the
other hand covering the back of his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was adorable and she smiled briefly before examining her toe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No blood; she’d be ok.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you all right?” he asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll live,” she said, sighing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to calm down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, go home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Don’t do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t follow
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re being really creepy right now
and I don’t deal well with creeps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
you’re not gonna do is stalk me because I will shoot your fucking ass. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you hear me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will double-tap your skull and dispose of
the body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t think I don’t know how;
I’m a chemist and a soldier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now go
home!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor had no intention of going home, but he’d say whatever
she needed to hear to appease her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
creep comment got his attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“One
condition.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is it sex?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Kisses</i>?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It will be if you want that, but that’s not what I’m asking
for.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What is it?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
shook her sore foot, angry about the chipped polish and spied her stiletto over
in the corner. She wanted to throw it at him, if she knew where he was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want to have dinner with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At your house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In private.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra held the phone away from her ear and stared at it for
about ten seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A range of
expressions swam over her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did he
just ask her for a date?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Hello? Nedra?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Paging
Dr. Nix?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She said, “You want to do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">what</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You insulted me that night in the garage,” he said, his
tone changing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You told me I was
incapable of making you happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I beg to
differ.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra thought back to that night; the night of the
thousand-dollar masturbation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You got
me in trouble that night,” she replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She bit her lip and swung her braids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched her carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He loved her hair like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“On the way home, I was masturbating and
speeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got a ticket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s your fucking fault!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor burst out laughing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He couldn’t help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That mental
picture was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">awesome</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra glared at the phone and hung up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dickhead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She put it on the table and massaged her toe while she waited for him to
call back, which he did after a minute.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You done laughing, you little shit?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She could hear the smile in his voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said, “How is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> my fault?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“If you really want to make me happy, you can pay the damn
fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tell me what you were thinking about that makes it my fault
and I’ll consider it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tit for tat,
gorgeous.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed and peeked into the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was still in his same position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She said, “Hold on,” and put down the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor watched her enter the hotel and saw the light go
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she returned and sat
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her shirt wasn’t buttoned and he
was treated to a wonderful view of her naked body as she put her injured foot
on the table and examined her toe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
had a perfect sighting of the Promised Land and groaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was in desperate need of a visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God, but the woman hadn’t lied when she said
it was addicting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra picked up the phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tell me,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Tell
me what happened, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give me every
last detail.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You made me mad,” she said, “showing up at my car like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I told you I never wanted to see you
again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I drove off.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You said something important before you nearly ran over my
toes,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Repeat it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You said to me,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>‘Victor, I can’t have you the way that I want you and if I can’t have
that, I don’t want you at all.’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra remained silent, cursing herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d forgotten that his memory was pristine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor said, “You want to clarify that for me…or should I do
it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Floor’s yours,” she said, tilting her head back to look at
the cloudless sky, unknowingly giving him unobstructed visual access to her
body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her breasts, nipples pert and pretty in the
warm air, the scar on her belly, the flash of pink between her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s clit had a tendency to pop out from
time to time and it aroused Victor whenever he saw it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She seemed to see him and beckon, ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Come on over, Victor…never too tired for
you…’<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You want me to be a secret—your secret.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He licked his lips, thinking of cherries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra twisted her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Well</i>?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, this shouldn’t be a surprise to
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I said as much when we had that
little chat at your house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you
that the most you could ever be was my side dude and I didn’t think you’d be okay
with having Jon’s sloppy seconds.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“According to him, he’s not with you enough to have first
dibs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d have <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i> sloppy seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I
wouldn’t leave any for him, you understand.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra couldn’t reply to that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leave it to Victor to get right to the heart
of the truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He sees you what, about five, six months out of the
year?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I distinctly remember you saying
you had to have it regularly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How is
that possible if he’s gone 50% of the time?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You masturbate every day?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or do
you have another side dude?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you do, I’m
getting rid of his ass as soon as I get back to New York.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had no interest in being Nedra’s jump
off, but he wasn’t about to have any other motherfuckers applying for the
position either.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was suddenly exhausted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was far too perceptive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, don’t be tedious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What were you masturbating to when you got pulled over?” He
couldn’t get the image out of his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was
remembering the last time I saw you before that night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor felt himself getting hard. “Great memories,
then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was your dress up around your
hips?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What color were your panties?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She’d give him a little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Red satin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To match the suit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He closed his eyes and put one hand on his stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m picturing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One hand on the wheel, one hand inside? How
many fingers?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“One hand on the stick shift, three inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was steering with my knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m gifted like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He muttered an expletive she couldn’t discern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Tell me…tell me…what were you thinking
about?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That time when I was asleep and you were fucking with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I did that a lot that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be specific.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I was sleeping and you were eating me out and then like,
out of nowhere, you jumped right into the pussy and started saying a whole lot
of crazy shit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Like what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s face felt warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The memories were vivid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Um…”
She sat up and crossed her legs, hiding his view of the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t matter; he was focused on the
fantasy being laid out for him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What did I say?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
knew exactly what he’d said but he wanted to hear it from her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He slipped his hand in his slacks to soothe
his erection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You told me that my pussy curves to your dick.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It does.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He curled
his hand around himself, remembering right along with her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You kept asking me if I felt it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Did you?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gazed
at her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She seemed embarrassed,
with the way she’d covered herself and crossed her legs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were fiercely
merciless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was half asleep and
couldn’t keep up…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What else did I say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra continued, face still warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The way I fit inside of you is perfect, like
a hand in a glove…do you feel that, Marine?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You kept asking me if I felt it, every time you thrust, you asked me
that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor closed his eyes, hand moving steadily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Still waiting for you to call out the
lie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And did you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I just told you I did, you whacko pervert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt every one of those jackhammer
thrusts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It actually kind of pissed me
off that you were so…intense.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What else did I say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, really…what’s the point of this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I just want to hear what caused you to get pulled over.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was so turned on by the entire thing and
was already stroking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I remember you saying you want it every day, you had to to
have it every day and I wanted you to have it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So far the bullshit meter is reading in the negative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I kept hearing you say,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>‘Do you feel that, Nedra?’ and I bit my lip and it bled and I came all
over my hand and the seat,” she said in a quiet, shivery voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I came so <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hard</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Shit,” Victor said, about to burst his damn self.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How fast were you going?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“125 in a 70 mile per hour zone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Fuck,” he murmured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
was close. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed one more thing. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">That</i> fast?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
was listening to ‘Drunk in Love’ and had the windows down and I hoped that the
cop wouldn’t be able to smell me but I think he did…he saw my bloody lip and I
gave him my license with wet fingers…at that point, I was fresh out of damns to
give.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He closed his eyes again, his hand moving faster and faster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What’d he do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He looked at me, asked about my lip, made the usual
speeding ticket talk and then went to his cruiser to write the ticket.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I bet that son-of-a-bitch wiped his face with your
license.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You smell good as fuck,” Victor
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would have paid all the money
to be there to see the man’s expression when he pulled Nedra over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would have paid even more money to be in
Nedra’s passenger seat when it all went down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor imagined that after she got the ticket and the cop drove off, he
would have dragged her in the back seat and devoured her juicy pussy before
fucking her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Ah God, he was so hard and so close…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know he knew what I was really doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to get up to grab my purse and my dress
was around my waist and my panties were soaked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know he could see it and smell it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">god…!</i>” Victor
murmured, and climaxed hard with a grunt and a sigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He</i>
could see it clearly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You did that to me, you asshole,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was fine before you showed up at my
car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hadn’t thought of you in weeks
and now you’re like fucking superglue…I had to scrub the seat the next morning.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor liked that because it meant he wasn’t the only one
having obsessive thoughts. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
calming down, but kept his hand in his pants. “That’s how you got the ticket?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s over a thousand dollars,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Because of you, you jerk!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t get tickets!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I didn’t tell you to fantasize about me and finger-fuck
yourself while driving at the same time.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If it was about the money, he’d make sure the ticket was taken care of.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra paused a very long time before responding in a tiny
voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her secret heart wouldn’t let her
lie to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, I couldn’t help
myself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There was a giant, pregnant pause and Victor closed his
eyes, savoring her words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra remained
quiet, for the silence was so noisy and so honest it was deafening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he finally got himself together, he
said,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Then how can I ever be a secret
if <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> can’t help it, Nedra?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You kissed me like you were starved for
affection that night in your office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now
that I know <i>his</i> schedule, I understand things better now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have options, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to starve.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I won’t…I won’t ruin my relationship with Jon just to fuck <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I already told you this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I just asked you to have dinner at your house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t ask you for sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You keep thinking that’s what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I </i>want because that’s what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want to fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just won’t turn you down if you ask me to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You make this so hard,” she whined.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not me,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I have to go,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m exhausted and I need to go to bed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do one thing before you hang up,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What are you wearing right now?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stared across the way, wondering if she'd tell the truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon’s shirt.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s it. I was about to take a shower before your dumb
ass called.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Touch yourself,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Like you did in the car.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
wanted to watch her masturbate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you serious?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“As cancer.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m tired, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
just had sex with my boyfriend—three times—and I’m kind of wiped.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh please,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m not hearing this from the same woman who talked all that shit in my
apartment that night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes you are,” she said, smugly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m a happy girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon’s very good at what he does.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Apparently not good enough,” Victor said, “because you’re
still awake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recall you going right to
sleep immediately after <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">our</i> third
round.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I delivered a knockout punch, wouldn’t
you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Eat shit and die,” she snapped, and hung up the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor retired to his suite shortly after Nedra hung up on
him and took a shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would have to
keep his distance for the rest of the trip, but he had no intention of going
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he obtained Nedra’s phone
number, he’d also obtained the specs of her phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He contacted a woman he’d met on the Deep
Web, a woman who had particular access and abilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed a mirror of Nedra’s phone and for a
healthy fee, had one within a week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From
there, he found Jon’s contact information, and using another clandestine
contact, obtained his street address and the company he worked for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another Deep Web associate managed to get him
copies of both Nedra’s and Jon’s service records; this cost him quite a bit of
money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The associate he’d paid an hour
or so ago left a package in a safe deposit box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He would retrieve the package when he returned to New York and make use
of its contents when it was safe to do so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The shower had jets angled to hit every square inch of his
body and he stared up at the shower head, letting the warm water beat against
his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She said he didn’t know how to
make her happy, but never offered any suggestions on what it would take for him
to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Victor hacked into Jon’s
computer, he discovered that he’d made arrangements for two to Shanghai and
Hainan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Immediately Victor made his own
arrangements, making sure he was on a different flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He told Franklin that he needed to converse
with some scientists at a think tank in Beijing who might have an idea or two
on refining Reed’s design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin was
okay with plan, and Victor was off to Shanghai the day before Jon and Nedra
left.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">While on the plane, he read their service records.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon had achieved the rank of Captain before
retiring after 20 years in the Marines, and his record was exemplary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a scout sniper who got his training in
Quantico and specialized in urban assignments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had 27 confirmed kills, and appeared to be a badass with almost any
kind of weapon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was some stuff
that happened during his time in Afghanistan that was redacted; apparently his
Deep Web contact’s level of access only went so far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s record was also good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was an operations chief of a weapons
company and by all accounts, an expert rifleman and fierce in hand-to-hand
combat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was injured in Afghanistan,
but the details were redacted, and shortly after her tour there was over, she
did not re-up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She served 12 years in
the USMC, going in at 18 and truncating her military career at 30.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that, she enrolled in graduate school
at Cal Tech and got her PhD in chemical physics four years later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin Storm sniffed her out a year before
she graduated and clearly let her know she had a place at the Baxter Building
if she was so inclined.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor wondered what happened in Afghanistan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told him that she got her scars there,
but would not elaborate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Under what
conditions would she share that personal story with him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How much would she have to trust him to tell
him that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And had she and Jon served in
Afghanistan at the same time?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dates
lined up, but that was all he’d been able to discern, as everything else had
been redacted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">While in Shanghai, he kept his distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no point in alerting Nedra to his
presence; not until he saw fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
wanted to see how Nedra and Jon were together, in public and private.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were adventurous and traveled
extensively, sightseeing and hiking and enjoying each other’s company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They laughed a lot and had no problems with
PDA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon would stop whatever he was
doing to kiss Nedra and run his hands over her delectable ass any chance he
got.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor didn’t blame him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He also discovered that they were exhibitionists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They weren’t afraid to make out or engage in
risqué behavior in public.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact,
Victor was certain they’d had sex at one of the towers of the Great Wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra wore a lightweight tennis dress; something
quite easy for Jon to get under if the mood struck, which it did in a corner of
Watchtower Six on the Mutinayu section of the Wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched with high-powered binoculars,
jealous as hell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was a private man; someone who was perfectly fine
with solitude, as his three years could attest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had the kind of mind and hobbies that could occupy him for years and
not grow bored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before Nedra’s bald
commentary regarding Sue, Victor had held Sue on a pedestal; a brilliant MIT
graduate who he felt could understand him and satisfy his needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In his reality, he would have married Sue,
continued his research and done quite well had life not interrupted, first by
his own instability, and second by Nedra Nix.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The sex was one thing, but she started kissing him at some
point and it did not take long for him to crave her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was not put off by any of his antisocial
acts and saw through his bullshit…and then was bad-ass enough to like what she
saw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was extremely smart and Victor
had to admit that the fact that she walked into his house armed was highly
stimulating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And there it began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She showed him a sensitivity that he had not
experienced, a sensuality that soothed his rough edges, and a sexuality that
blew his volatile mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that night,
Victor forgot all about Sue as a potential partner; greeting her with as much
enthusiasm as she did him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor got himself all the way together and decided to see
if it was his lack of physical contact with women that made him crave Nedra or if it was
Nedra specifically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went out on a few
dates with a few women he met online and at bars…followed them either home or
to a cheap-ass motel…and discovered that it was indeed Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that, he didn’t bother trying to meet
any more women and put his outside-of-work efforts into locating her lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had to see her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What he wanted was to court her, to woo her,
to make her choose to be with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
to do that, he had to know what she needed to have in her private life that
satisfied her…and Jon was always the immovable object he couldn’t work
around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So he decided to stalk
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he couldn’t get Nedra to tell
him what he needed to know, he’d use other means, be they fair or foul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t give a fuck. Victor didn’t have the
constraints or moral considerations others had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The ends always justified the means.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He got out of the shower and turned out all the lights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor got in bed and looked at his phone,
wondering if she was still awake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
closed his eyes and tried to go to sleep, but his eyes were open seconds later
as he reached for his phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Are you asleep?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He waited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would she
reply or was she truly asleep?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
watched her go back into her suite and the light never came back on…did she go
to bed or did she take a bath like she said she wou—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Not yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck you want?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You never answered my
question.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Which was?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Invite me to
dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to share a meal with you.
<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Are you serious?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s only fair; you’ve been in every room in
my house except the kitchen.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Because I don’t cook.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You can order.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor, are you sure?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You really
want to have dinner with me, nothing else?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I really want to have
dinner with you…but if you want to have anything else with me, it’s yours for
the taking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have it bad for you,
Nedra.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There was a long pause and he wondered if she’d fallen
asleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It’ll have to be after Jon’s gone.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fine with me.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I’ll let you know.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Don’t make me wait too
long.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Don’t be a dick.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There was another long pause and Victor laid the phone on
his chest, eyes closing naturally now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had what he wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But then
the text tone sounded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Will you behave?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will you stay
in your lane?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Meaning?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You know what I mean.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Meaning will I be
quiet as a church mouse when your big galoot of a soldier comes stomping
through town?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will I act like we’re
strangers while he’s around when I know the taste of your pussy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will I pretend to be 'just a friend’ if he catches
us together?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is that what you mean?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A pause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Never mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good night,
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want to see you anywhere near Jon and
me again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’ll
have dinner with you when he leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fair enough?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor smiled at the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">For now.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Easy Conversation" -Jill Scott<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You Owe Me”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Nas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Can’t Get Enough”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>-Kenny Lattimore<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I Hate U”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>-Prince<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I Didn’t Mean to Turn You On” –Cherrelle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No One Else” –Mary J.
Blige<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/05/lovesick-5.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-36889116478391116592016-04-27T06:24:00.002-07:002016-04-30T00:07:31.956-07:00Lovesick (3/?)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick-2.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">3: Jonathan</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon was back and she was happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra met him at the airport and they
practically made out in Baggage Claim, oblivious to envious onlookers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jonathan Holland was six-three,
broad-shouldered and 240 pounds of good old-fashioned Marine muscle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wore his dark hair short and he was so beautiful
that men and women did double takes when they saw him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra loved it and loved him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Roxy,” he said, picking her up and kissing her, one large
hand on her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m so glad to see you,
baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Been too long.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra nuzzled his nose, giggling as he spun her around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he put her down and kissed her in
earnest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She kissed him back, popping
her ass out so he could grip it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
pulled away reluctantly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You have no
idea how much I’ve missed you, baby,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“But we may cause a scene that’ll have TSA on our asses if we don’t grab
your bags and split.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon pulled her in for another real kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Then let’s grab and go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQo4-BOc22BGlNSdQVmN1Q1KgpItDqTSSldU2TyeN_ofmP0EcyE86OIY3DheKc3aXijGZX8R2pNR40Nyg3uQ0NsxfSdh5xQdN8aaPQBFptaYQR24pj4ol-aMTB2dPzLZjx-zMqvV95wKC/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-04-19+at+7.39.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQo4-BOc22BGlNSdQVmN1Q1KgpItDqTSSldU2TyeN_ofmP0EcyE86OIY3DheKc3aXijGZX8R2pNR40Nyg3uQ0NsxfSdh5xQdN8aaPQBFptaYQR24pj4ol-aMTB2dPzLZjx-zMqvV95wKC/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-04-19+at+7.39.07+PM.png" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jonathan Holland, for your pleasure.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She let Jon drive the Bima and sat in the passenger seat, grinning
at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Rides nice, doesn’t it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good choice, baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Thank you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted
to do something for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I’ve
been gone far longer than expected but—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Baby,” she said, rubbing his arm, “don’t you dare explain
yourself to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been just as busy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve missed you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The job’s been damn near 24/7, but there have been moments where all I
wanted—needed—was you by my side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shit
else don’t mean shit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know exactly what you mean, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s okay; we’re okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love my new whip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love it,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve caught flak for it, but you know that’s
par for the course.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Roxy, I know you’re unfazed by those jerks at your job, but
I can’t stand that shady bullshit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
really don’t believe you’re capable of greatness or deserving of accolades.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She rubbed his arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we won’t discuss that anymore.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A few minutes passed and Jon looked at her, his dark eyes
taking her in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You know, you’re the
best looking woman I’ve seen in weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You got somebody, or are you just letting me ride this one time?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I got
somebody.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s he
like?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh, you’d like him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s
tall, dark and handsome, strong, smart and secure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Got an ass so tight you could bounce a
quarter off one of his cheeks and his abs…a woman could scrub clothes against
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s a goofy nerd and loves his
mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyond that, he’s loyal, loveable,
and I’m glad he’s my guy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So there’s no way a mangy-ass mutt like me could sneak in?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’d be a nah,” she said, giggling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
played that game all the time, sometimes as a way to break tension.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He focused on the road, shifting gears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I know I don’t need to ask,” he said,
rubbing one of her denim-clad thighs, “but did you get your funding?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d
gotten the confirmation calls that morning from both parties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sixty-two million for the next five years,”
she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can make it last longer
than five, but they don’t need to know that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Sixty-two million dollars?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You didn’t tell me you were hustling for that much!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well I wasn’t sure how much I’d get, but I want five brand
new scanning electron microscopes, a Fourier transform mass spectrometer, seven
micro-spectrometers, 20 new computers, five SGI modeling stations, and a bunch
of other equipment that I need to complete my work that you don’t care
about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I just ran off is at minimum
ten million dollars worth of equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
could use more space and my staff deserves a raise.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You lost me at Fourier transformations,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon knew his girlfriend was scarily brilliant
and it wasn’t a level where he could always meet her, but he was extremely
proud and not afraid to let her shine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In fact, he encouraged it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Either
way, I’m proud of you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you
set a goal, you meet it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this is on
top on what you can get from Franklin?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She beamed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“With
Franklin it’s funding and more…like, he knows Physical Chemistry needs more
space, so he’s hustling the higher-ups to allow us to expand into the unused
room across the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The girls will love
it and Ariadne can have better wheelchair access.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I actually want to build a workspace that is
all hers so she doesn’t have to try and fit her chair in those tight corners.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Always thinking of your staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What about you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you going to give yourself a raise?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t need a raise, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I just got this sweet-ass ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m good, honey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there’s money
left in the budget, I’ll treat myself to a little something.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For her, that would be a couple of pairs of
shoes or a fly outfit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon said, “You should.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
deserve it.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra rarely
ever splurged and she would have drove that 'Stang until the wheels feel off in spite of the fact he constantly had to work on it whenever he came home. Nedra's failure to pay herself first </span><span style="font-size: large;">was one of the reasons Jon bought her a new car. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had money in the bank
from her investments, but she rarely spent any of it on herself. Instead, she made sure Jon's home was always clean and comfortable.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">So he spent his money on her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve been busting my ass so that I could have a couple of
weeks off with you,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“When’s
your next assignment?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Kosovo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A month or
so from now.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was a military
contractor and he had security clearance and couldn’t talk about the details of
his work to Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was gone six or
seven months out of a year, usually.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I put in for two weeks, but I can squeeze three if need
be.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin would give her anything
she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After her sixty-two million
dollar coup, he’d be more than happy to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra’s achievements made the Baxter look good and the higher-ups were walking around with water balloon chests at the moment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We’ll make it count,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you want to go to Shanghai?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">China</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve never
been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We could do Tokyo, Seoul or Hong
Kong if you prefer.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every year,
whenever possible, they took an extravagant vacation on Jon’s dime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He made plenty of money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I thought you wanted a weekend somewhere and I was assuming
there would be a beach involved.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We can hit Hainan, Bali or Koh Samui on the way back if you
want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You remember Phuket.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled, caressing his fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had a blast in Phuket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Bet your ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You really want to go to Shanghai?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah,” he said, holding her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s a city I’ve heard a lot about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then we can do a beach stop in Hainan;
maybe even do 48 hours in Hong Kong and Macau.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want time away from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>
world with my lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can pick the
next location.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra covered his hand with hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“When do we leave?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon smiled at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m glad you agree…because I booked Shanghai and Hainan a couple of
weeks ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three days.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
their way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was the trip planner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She just had to make the plane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Which beach we hitting, then?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon squeezed her thigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Hainan Province has several beaches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’ll be easy for us to get there from Shanghai.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to explore Luobi Cave and the Yanoda
Zipline.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Guess
I need to go shopping tomorrow; grab some new swimsuits.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You can skinny-dip for all I care,” he teased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I miss seeing you naked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got us a suite with a private beach.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She fingered her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’d better get this braided up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
not about to fuck with this mess for three weeks while we’re traveling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three days, you say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just enough
time for me to get some rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been
busting <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i> ass for the past week
trying to finish up just so I could come home to you as soon as possible. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll stay with me tonight or do you want me
to go to your apartment?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll go home with you tonight, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to make sure you have food to eat for
the next couple of days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But you’ll get
as much rest as you need because I’m texting Keva now to get my hair braided
tomorrow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Get those long ones I like,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“They look fantastic when you’re dancing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you know I like yanking them when we
fuck.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bet your ass,” she said again as her fingers flew over the
iPhone screen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon was tired, but not too tired to see about his Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They took a shower together that ran long and
he carried her out of the bathroom to their bed, preferring to air dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He fell asleep shortly after they finished
making love and Nedra lay with her head on his chest, running a finger around
his brick-like abdominals, thankful he was home safe yet again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His breathing was even, his heartbeat
steady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t sleepy yet, but it
wouldn’t take long for her to follow him into dreamland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra always slept better when he was by her
side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’d been through so much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ve missed you so much,” she whispered, kissing one of his
nipples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reality of her big,
beautiful man pushed everything else out of sight and out of mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had planned to go to work tomorrow to
wrap up odds and ends, but would delegate the task to Keria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would take half the day to get her hair
braided, and then she would go shopping for some new clothes and start packing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was going to Shanghai, China…a city that
was almost 8000 miles away from the Baxter Building and Victor von Doom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She hadn’t seen or heard from him since early last week,
when he showed up at her office late at night and asked for her kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or rather, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">kisses</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His definition of the
word ‘kiss’ had broadened over the course of a few weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was something different about him in
addition to his appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was something
she couldn’t quite name, but definitely responded to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Physically, he was far more attractive now
that he’d cleaned himself up and definitely had swag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wore a sweater and a nice pair of slacks, he
had that beard snatched within an inch of its life, and his hair was about two
or three inches long and it looked like it refused to behave no matter what he
did to tame it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was soft and sleek,
and she liked having her hands in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor gained a few pounds and he looked fantastic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That mouth of his was even better than she
remembered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Infinitely so and she
refused to think about anything beyond <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Which mean it made no sense for him to be single.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was out of the hole, back in the
world, doing his research, interacting with real live people, and he was far
too sexy not to have gotten snagged. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though Keria was bisexual and tended
mostly towards women, she found him very good-looking and even though she had
reservations, Nedra knew Keria would have given Victor some, push come to
shove.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And she was just one woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were too many women in that place who
thought Victor had been cute before that should have nailed his ass to the
floor by now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then Nedra wondered why she cared so much about who he was
or was not fucking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had her man here,
live and warm in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Still, Victor should be fucking <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">somebody</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would take his
attention off her, and she really needed that to happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that he knew her weakness, he would
exploit it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She briefly recalled how
easy it was for him to manipulate her…and how she allowed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was never going to let him have the
upper hand again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">But really, she didn’t have any worries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About nine days had passed since that night
in her office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had her number,
but Nedra was glad that she hadn’t gotten even so much as a text from the
man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In his presence, she could not
behave like she wanted to; like a woman who didn’t want to be bothered with her
ex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Except Victor wasn’t an ex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was…he was…what he <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">wasn’t</i> was an ex and it frustrated her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra regretted agreeing to have sex with him that night
Franklin sent her to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She should
have told him to fuck off and gone back to Baxter and let Franklin know that
she failed; that Victor was a disagreeable asshole and they were better off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But her pride; her need to be in full command
of everything; the resident queen of completing all jobs handed to her and
problems solved, her 100% success rate; her desire never to fail was her
downfall in this instance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra flinched, hard enough that Jon’s arm tightened around
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t want to wake him and she
didn’t want to leave the comfort of his warmth and their bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She lifted her leg over his and his free hand
began to slide comfortably up and down her thigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t going to entertain any more
thoughts of Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was a woman of
discipline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was going to put all of
her attention into Jonathan Holland until he boarded the plane to Kosovo a
month or so from now…and then back into her research.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">In time, she was asleep; her breathing matching that of his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon got them an opulent suite at the Waldorf-Astoria on the
Bund and they spent the first two days getting over jet lag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then they spent their time touring the city,
seeing everything Shanghai had to offer, including bad pollution days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They ate street food, ate at nice restaurants
and Nedra found herself at the South Bund Fabric Market, having clothes
made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tailors were efficient, gifted
and cheap…and could make anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
took the hi-speed train to Beijing and hiked the Great Wall; saw the Summer
Palace and Tiananmen Square.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They took a
side trip to Shaanxi Province to see the Terracotta Warriors and then returned
to Shanghai.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">One night, Nedra found a club for them to go to near French
Concession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a primo spot for
expats; on certain nights the DJ had throwback celebrations for all the old
heads. The drink menu slayed, and the reviews were mostly positive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was always down for a good club hop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They both liked to dance, and Nedra was
feeling perfectly sleazy that evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She wore a short, tight two-piece purple dress that left nothing to the
imagination, purple seamed stockings with a matching garter belt, and black
velvet stilettos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon loved it when she
dressed that way; it wasn’t something she did often and he loved watching all
the attention she got from others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When she got dressed, he was sitting on the bed putting on
his shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She came out of the bathroom
and posed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Baby?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh we’re doing it like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>
tonight, Roxy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bet your ass,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Is it too much?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Should I wear a
pashmina over it at the restaurant?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah, you may want to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> at the club,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want you in all your purple glory.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled as she adjusted the clip on her garter belt. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would go to the club and tease the hell
out of each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then they would go back
to the hotel and fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a request
for Jon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The club was a hole in the wall, smoky, but packed with
bodies on the dance floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The DJ was
excellent; rolling off a string of classics one could do nothing except dance
to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As was their way, Nedra led Jon to
the middle of the floor and they started dancing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put her arm around his neck; her
stilettos made her six feet tall and it so easy to lock eyes with him and make
the immediate world their own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put
his hands on her ass and they moved as one to a funky-ass beat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The men in this place can’t stop staring at you, Roxy,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good choice, this purple slip of
a dress.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You won’t have to work hard getting it off, promise you
that.” she teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bet your ass,” he said, kissing her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he released her and took a step back,
grinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Turn around Mama, put that
ass on Big Daddy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra gyrated her hips provocatively and smiled at Jon
before turning around slowly and backing up against his groin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She locked her arms around his neck and he
put his hands on her waist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Move with me, Big Daddy,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Talkin’ bout my hips, move <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your</i> hips.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He could and did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>People were starting to watch the attractive couple own the dance
floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon had always been a great
dancer and Nedra loved that he wasn’t shy about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He ran his hands up and down her body and
then whispered something raunchy in her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She whipped her braids to one side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh Daddy, they won’t be able to handle <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>…” she teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do it anyway. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like
seeing men stare at you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love it when
they want what I got.” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Okay,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“When the song calls for it, be ready…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the
tempo changed, Nedra bent completely over and twerked against her boyfriend and
like he wanted, every man in the vicinity turned to stare at her helplessly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon laughed and slapped her ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put an arch in her back, dipped lower, put her hands
on her knees and made her ass pop and smiled as she heard Jon mutter an
expletive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she slowly gyrated her
way back up, locking her arms back around his neck as he slid one hand down her
side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That never fails to make me horny as fuck,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Them too,” he said, pointing his chin into
the crowd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dudes were straight ogling
Nedra and all she could do was smile and bring Jon’s lips down for a sweet and
sexy kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He slid an arm across her
body and they ground against each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When Nedra broke the kiss, she brought Jon’s hands up to cover her
breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her nipples were practically
rocks and he knew how to release just enough tension so they didn’t have to
leave the club so soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Next thing she knew, the DJ went way back and threw on “Sex
Shooter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh hell naw,” she said, stepping away from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No he didn’t!!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The DJ done fucked around and put on Sex Shooter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know that’s one of my faves!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What are you going to do, Roxy?” he asked, anticipating
whatever sexy dance she might come up with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was down for whatever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She grinned and started recreating Apollonia’s moves from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Purple Rain</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I need
you to get me off…I’m your bomb, baby, ready to explode…”</i> as she caressed her
breasts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon watched her, grinning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…be your slave, do
anything I’m told…”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sang the words while feeling herself up and shaking
her hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon danced around her in a
tight circle and she turned with him to keep facing him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All eyes were on them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Come on, kiss the
gun,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bet your ass I will,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Tell Daddy how you want it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra held out her hands and he took them, pulling her
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra whipped her braids to one side
and put her back up against him, still singing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I need you to pull my
trigger baby; I can’t do it alone…”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s my girl,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He wondered how long they’d be at the club.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved his hands up and down Nedra’s hips,
matching her gyration for gyration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No girl’s body can
compete with mine…”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nope, not a single one,” he said, caressing her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grinned as Jon felt her up and down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She rarely got to cut up like this, but took
full advantage whenever she could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nobody over here knew them, and even if they did, she didn’t give a
shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was grown, her man was grown,
and grown folks did grown things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
and her boyfriend were a couple of proud flag-flying freaks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stared into the crowd, and then past the
crowd to the bar, and to her utter amazement, Victor was sitting at the bar,
his eyes on her, a drink in his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra stopped moving, startled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What’s wrong, Roxy?” Jon asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was good and hard, but he could keep it
together for as long as she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
was the point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But they were fucking in
the taxi; he knew that much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could
keep it together but he knew Nedra wouldn’t be able to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra turned around abruptly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nothing, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just want to look at you for a little bit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You just want these horny motherfuckers to look at that
ass, is all.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Whatever you say, Big Daddy,” she teased, planting a fat
one on his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“They can <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">look</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just let me hold on to you for a moment.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew without a doubt Victor was looking
at her ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon stared at her, smiling as they moved as one, changing
places as the beat dictated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
rested her cheek against his, secure in his arms until she opened her eyes and
saw Victor staring at her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
hadn’t moved from his seat, and he was sipping on a drink, studying
her—studying them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Carefully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">What in the eternal hell was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">he</i> doing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>Here, of all places?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A hole-in-the-wall club somewhere on Taikang
Lu near French Concession in Shanghai, China?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What was Victor doing there?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Did he follow her?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He ran a thumb over his lips and licked the pad as he held
Nedra’s gaze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those brown eyes hinted at
secrets, at mysteries, at enigmas…at things he knew that she did not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was sipping on a bright green drink in a
martini glass and raised it to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Let’s go,” Nedra said in Jon’s ear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You sure, baby? We’ve only been here a half-hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another club you want to hit?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She caressed the back of his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“My pussy’s wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to go back to the hotel.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We may not make it,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We don’t have to,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m up for a multi-round bout.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon called for an Uber and a driver was waiting by the time
they finished their drinks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately,
the car was a big Lexus with tinted windows and more than enough room in the
back seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John tossed the driver a
thousand yuan tip and told him in Mandarin not to worry about what happened in
the back seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The driver nodded but
that didn’t stop him from sneaking looks as he drove back to the hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra wasted no time mounting Jon once he
closed the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s dress was
easily to manipulate and seconds later, she was riding him as they kissed
passionately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon held on to her
ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They kept their sounds tight and
contained, but any fool with a brain could look in the backseat of the ES 350
and know they were getting it, and getting it good too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The driver took his sweet time getting back
to the hotel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When they got out of the car, Nedra smiled at him,
straightening her dress before putting the pashmina back on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I got a suggestion for round two.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m game,” he agreed, and impulsively scooped her up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s heart began to race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though she liked to be carried, it was
something she never flat out told Jon it was something she liked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it had to do with when and how they met,
but she never told him how much it excited her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Considering that Victor’s far less massive self was able to not only
carry her but also hold her up in the most interesting of positions, Nedra felt
that she needed to share it with Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
couldn’t have any advantage over him; not if she could help it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon carried her to the elevator and continued to hold her
while pushing the button.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra lay her
head on his shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I like being in
your arms like this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right, Roxy?” he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had been about to put her down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I never told you this before, but I like it…being carried
this way, or tossed over your shoulder, or any kind of way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a…throwback…sensation; maybe my inner
Neanderthal…” She closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It
makes me feel super-girly and super safe.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He smiled at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Woman, I will carry you anytime you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why in the hell are you telling me this now?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The elevator opened and they got in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon pressed their floor and the door was
about to close when he heard, “Hold the elevator!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pushed the OPEN button and a man hopped on
and pressed his floor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good evening,” Jon said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How you doing?” the man replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s eyes snapped open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She knew that voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was
on the elevator with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Son of a bitch!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>But she had to remain cool and pretend
not to know him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So she closed her eyes
again and murmured softly in Jon’s arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He held her easy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Thoughts raced through her mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This
motherfucker is actually in the elevator with me and my boo!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is he doing here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He DID follow me…not just me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Me and Jon!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What is he doing, what does he want…what is his goal?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is he trying to break us up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is he trying to insinuate himself in our
lives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is he going to tell Jon who he
is?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why is he here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do I do about this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Damn it, he just won’t leave me alone!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then she recalled how <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">she</i>
had kissed <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fuck a duck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should have never allowed him into my
lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should have never fucked him to
begin with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But how did he know we’d be
here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>HOW DOES HE KNOW WHERE WE ARE?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">If she ever got the chance to ask him, she’d choke it out of
his ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">What do I do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do I do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do I confront him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do I tell
Jon?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How far is Victor going to go with
this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I stop him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I make him understand that Jon is the
love of my life; a man I absolutely will not give up…not for anyone?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I make him see the truth?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her conscience provided the answer in vivid, living color. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He already has a truth in his mind and he is acting on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wants me; he feels as though he has a
connection—and therefore a chance—with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because I wasn’t brave enough to tell him to fuck off that night in the
garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even kept the goddamn flower
he gave me.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She all right?” Victor asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah,” Jon said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We
just came back from the club and her feet hurt.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“With shoes like that, I see why.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yeah,
but just ‘tween us guys, because she’s not listening, I love it when she wears
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They transform her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She doesn’t do this often, but when she does,
it makes me a happy man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a
special occasion for us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at Nedra carefully, thinking about how he’d
held her that same way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sans heels, of
course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d been in such a hurry to get
her in bed that he hadn’t savored what it was like to hold her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clearly her big oaf of a boyfriend took his
time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Noted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Anniversary?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just some
private time together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t see each
other much.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You sure that’s wise?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From where
I stand, she’s gorgeous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean if my
woman looked like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>, I wouldn’t
ever be more than ten feet away from her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you don’t mind my saying, she’s fine as hell.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His gaze shifted to Nedra and he had no
qualms about lustily staring her down in Jon’s arms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s performance at that shitty club was memorized; every
gyration, every dip, every sway…every single movement was now a frame to a movie
in his mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew he would beat off
to it at some point, and he wasn’t the only one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every man in the club had been watching her
dance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was going to be a lot of
guys choking the chicken tonight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That
she is, but it doesn’t matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s
loyal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So am I.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor could barely keep the sarcasm out of his tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ah, that’s nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have trust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What about other men coming on to her?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I expect for her to get hit on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I expect for men to try it with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I expect men to fall down at her feet and
declare their undying love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I expect for
men to be men because my Roxy’s an exceptional woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">her</i>
I trust.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This time Victor didn’t even try to hide the snark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is that right?” he said, raising a caustic
eyebrow, thinking about the sheer number of times he and Nedra had fucked in
his apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He</i> trusted <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">her</i>, but
clearly that trust was misplaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
a question that had to be asked of Nedra and then clarified at a later
date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This needed further study.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra had had enough of the chatter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Baby, is our floor coming up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elevator’s moving slow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want off
or to stay up?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’ll get off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon put her down and she smoothed her dress and looked up to
see Victor staring at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Hello,” she
said, her face betraying nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good evening,” he replied, making no pretense about the
desire in his eyes as he looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon watched him gaze at Nedra and smirked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guy was a dick to be sure, but he
couldn’t blame him for looking at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This is our floor,” she said, straightening her dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good night,” she said to Victor before
grabbing Jon’s hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come on,
baby…round two’s ready!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The doors
opened and she led him out of the elevator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon took that moment to pick her up again and sling her over his
shoulder and her laughter rang out, echoing down the all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once again, they were in their own world, and
so didn’t see Victor get out on the same floor a moment later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He waited for them to enter and then went to
his own suite…which was two doors down from theirs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Soon, he was relaxed, poured himself a drink
and decided to sit on the balcony and listen to the lively noise coming up from
the Bund and contemplate his next move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Shanghai was a lovely, lively city with the exception of the pollution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra and her wack-ass boyfriend were exhibitionists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe he wasn’t so wack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor sat in the dark, thinking about the
ramifications of this key piece of information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He scrolled his phone; one of his contacts sent word that two of the
tasks he wanted were complete and payment was expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor completed the transaction and sat
back, deep in thought as he sipped on his drink.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">To his surprise, he heard her voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He checked to make sure he was under cover of
darkness and looked toward the direction of their room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had backed out and she wore those two
pieces of cloth that served as her attire, her stockings and those heels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her nipples were hard and it was obvious she
didn’t have on any panties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
boyfriend followed her out, shirtless and shoeless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">They had Victor’s instant attention and he was also at
attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were talking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra made motions with her hands and then
backed up against the railing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor caught a bit of Jon’s dialogue, “…so a V-shape, you
mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She nodded eagerly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…only support is my arms and legs…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…scared?” she teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“… to motherfucking fight,” he said and removed his slacks
and boxers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra lifted her top,
gripped the railing, and spread her legs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…can take it, baby,” she said, beckoning to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor rolled his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">could</i> take it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon lifted his girlfriend’s legs, carefully placing them
over his shoulder as she balanced on the rail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He penetrated her, then put his big, strong arms around her and lifted
her up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jesus,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“It’s so…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tight</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes…yes it is….” Nedra said dreamily, locking her arms
around his neck and they began to fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor watched the whole thing and masturbated while continuing to sip
his drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked fucking amazing
and sounded a lot like she had the night they did it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her breasts bounced beautifully and he wanted
to suck her nipples so bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scrap of
cloth around her hips was now around her waist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">They were right there on the balcony, not giving a single
damn if they were seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was
amused by it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was also crazy aroused
at the way her legs looked in those stockings and shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All these wonderful little sexy tidbits and alluring details he was learning during his reconnaissance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing like the no-nonsense Marine that came
calling over two months ago with a gun on one and a knife on the other.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh Nedra,” he moaned, closing his eyes as the speed of his
hand matched their rhythm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had
shared something that was between <i>them</i> with another man, and it wasn’t
something Victor cared for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He spit on
his hand and continued jerking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh baby,
come on now…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">disappointed in you</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When it was clear that they were finished, Jon put Nedra
down and kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“…need to lie
down, Roxy…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Go ahead,” she said, following him inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew how he felt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor went into his suite to clean himself up and then
returned to the balcony with the decanter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He sat back down, picked up his phone and called her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>A/N: Lyrics to “Sex Shooter” belong to the one and only
Prince Rogers Nelson, may he rest in perfect purple peace.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Feels So Good”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>-Xscape<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Whatta Man” Salt-N-Pepa/En Vogue<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Ain’t No Other Man” –Christina Aguilera<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“All the Man that I Need” –Whitney Houston<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Freak Like Me” –Adina Howard<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Sex Shooter”-Apollonia 6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick-4.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-37598606927194723572016-04-23T09:30:00.001-07:002016-04-27T06:26:01.843-07:00Lovesick (2/?)<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2. Thermite</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The BMW was smooth as silk and the roads were empty, as they
should have been at two-something in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s encounter with Victor was all in her
head, all over her body, thrumming through her nerves like a live wire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned on the iPod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyoncé’s “Drunk in Love” was the last song
she’d been listening to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra rolled
down the windows, cranked the volume and tried to forget about Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked at the lily on the dashboard and
it stared right back at her, ensuring that wasn’t going to happen anytime soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The existence of the gorgeous black flower
screamed a truth she had to deal with.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">‘He found me.’<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">‘He didn’t forget
about me.’<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She shifted gears and one hand wandered between her thighs
as the car shot forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyoncé was
singing about fucking her husband and Nedra latched on to the lyrics, thinking,
recalling, allowing the memories to surge forth as her fingers slipped inside
her red satin panties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hit the
highway doing 60, on autopilot, listening and remembering everything about that
night and she couldn’t help herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d
been sitting behind his desk, looking like a dirty pile of clothes with six
weeks’ worth of bed-head when she walked in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It didn’t take long for her to discover that he found her appealing
enough to proposition her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Or maybe it was the fact that she was a real live woman
standing in his living room and not some live-sex bimbo dancing naked on a
computer screen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t matter to her
because she wasn’t going to leave without him…which meant that she ended up in
his bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra and Victor soon
discovered that they were a pair of world-class shit talkers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told him her pussy was the Promised Land
and it was more addicting than cocaine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He told her that he would have his way with her all over and that his
sex game was never off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Stumblin all in the
house/time to back up all of that mouth/that you had all in the car/talmbout
you the baddest bitch thus far<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Neither had lied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra licked her lips and bit them, thinking about the man’s
superlative head game. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He used his
tongue like an artist used a fine-tipped paintbrush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His lips curved around her clitoris in
tender, featherlike kisses and he was positively greedy when it came to
drinking the nectar of the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor made no secret of how much he loved her taste; he said it was
like cherries and how he could come just from eating her out, or his weakness
for grabbing her ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Can’t keep your eyes
off my fatty, daddy/I want you na na<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Drunk in love, we be
all night<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She licked her lips again and played with her pussy as she
flew down the interstate, the speedometer steadily creeping past <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">70…75…80…</i>as she recalled how easily he
lifted her in the shower, bent her over the chair…worshipped, blessed, adored,
revered every inch of her body and the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She recalled his kisses; how awkward he’d
been when she first kissed him and how great he’d gotten at kissing by the time
she left the next day…his sweet, sweet lips and the way his moustache and beard
felt against her clit…the man certainly learned fast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Talmbout you be
reppin’ that third/I want to see all the shit that I heard/Know I sling Clint
Eastwood/Hope you can handle this curve uhhn<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The speedometer continued to creep…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">85…90…95…100…</i>Nedra curled her fingers inside, squeezing her thighs
and alternately biting and licking her lips as she masturbated, thumbing her
clit and hating the fucker for bringing forth the memories; <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">all</i> of them, even the ones she worked
hard to bury deeper than dead bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had been asleep and he woke her up with head and then dick…and there
were angry words, commands…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Your pussy curves to my
dick; have you realized that…Do you feel that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How well we fit together…Like a hand in a glove?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you feel that, Nedra…do you feel it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want this every day and I have to have it
and you want me to have it…do you feel that, Marine?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The way I fit inside of you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s perfect…You may have to get fucked
everyday but you don’t get fucked like this everyday…but I bet you want to…Do
you feel that, Marine?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you feel that,
Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">That particular time, he had been relentless in his passion
and he never offered an explanation as to why he’d been so…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">intense</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I want this every day
and I have to have it and you want me to have it…”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She didn’t need an explanation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She already had one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was crazy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Catch a charge I
might/beat the box up like Mike</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">But in spite of that<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>significant
detail, her fingers stroked and probed, and her tongue ran over her lips
continuously as the memories became a movie caught in a loop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had been unstoppably horny and once she
fully woke up, she met him at that level.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Your pussy curves to my
dick…Do you feel that, Marine?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you
feel that, Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She felt it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes lawd, she did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra found her G and pressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The way I fit inside
of you…Like a hand in a glove…Do you feel that, Nedra?”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">felt it</i>, <i>all
right</i>, as her teeth clamped down on her bottom lip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her climax was brusque with a sweet, painful
edge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was grateful that the Bima’s
alignment was exquisite because her hands were everywhere except the wheel and she had been driving with her knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her lip started
bleeding and to her dismay, she saw flashing lights behind her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra looked at the speedometer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was driving over 120 miles an hour with
her hand in her panties, a swollen, bloody lip, smelling way too much like her
secret self with King Bey’s sexy jam on repeat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fucking Victor fucking von fucking Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That fucking bastard!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wanted to kill him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never</i>
got speeding tickets!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The lily stared at her with its broken stem and shredded red
bow; its ends red and raggedy just like her emotional state, bringing forth the
real truth in all its glory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He’s a bastard all
right, but one that you want, no matter how much you try to fight it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra slowed down and pulled over, looking for something to
wipe her wet fingers with and coming up short.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Quickly she turned off the iPod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
hadn’t yet outfitted the Bima with necessities such as tissues…or a damn towel,
in this case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d have to clean the seat when she got
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wiped her hand on her dress
after sucking the tang off her fingers and did the best she could to straighten
her face and lick the blood from her lip. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was grateful that the windows were open
and maybe the cop couldn’t smell her that much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She put her hands on the wheel as the trooper walked towards her car and
asked for her license and registration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My purse is right behind me, officer,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“If I could reach back and get it…I can do it
with one hand.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She kept a copy of her
registration in her wallet because there was always at least one of her guns in
her glove compartment and she did not need Officer Friendly to see that she was
packing heat. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That wouldn’t end well for
her, even though she had a permit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Take your time,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra kept one hand on the wheel but lifted herself high
enough to grab the bag’s handles and swing it to the front seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She caught a strong whiff as she lifted her
hips and closed her eyes in mortification.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What would her graduate students think?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Honestly, she didn’t give a shit what anyone thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even Officer Friendly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She fished out her license and registration
and handed it to him with the hand she’d used on herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sniffed, stared at it and then at her, the
flashlight not quite full in her face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Ma’am, your lip is bleeding.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m aware.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bit it
a little while ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have strong jaws,”
she replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you know how fast you were going, Miss Nix?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Way over the limit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>120, I think.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“125.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s 55
miles over, Miss Nix.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At this point, she just wanted him to give her the damn ticket and let
her go home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I wasn’t paying
attention.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t going to
apologize for speeding because why the hell for?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll be right back,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra nodded and leaned back in her seat and
let the cool night air calm her nerves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fucking
Victor, coming up out of the depths like a damn shark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to get it together, because she
couldn’t lose control like this again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This wasn’t her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra walked into her apartment forty-five minutes later
with a speeding ticket in her purse and her shoes in hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was furious with herself but could do
little more than make it to her bedroom and collapse on her bed in exhaustion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The calla lily was also in her purse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Across town, Victor lay in bed, arms folded behind his head,
still holding the broken stem of the lily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His ceiling fan was on and he watched the blades turn in a daze, listening
to Prince’s “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore,” thinking about how after almost
six weeks, he’d finally laid eyes on Nedra Nix…and she was just as fiery as he
remembered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had waited patiently for
over an hour, sitting in his Range Rover until the SMS he’d been expecting came
through from Security.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She’s coming down in
Elevator 4.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He picked up the calla lily and went to wait by her car; a
shiny, gleaming FUCK YOU to those who had the audacity to hate a woman they
didn’t know just because she was superb at hustling money from wealthy patrons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the bits he’d heard was that it was a
gift from one of Nedra’s benefactors, for “services rendered.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hearing that irritated him, because it was
clearly said in ignorance and out of spite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The blonde who said it didn’t even know Nedra’s name, but casually referred
to her as “that black bitch in physical chemistry,” to which another woman
nodded and offered her own negative perspective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor, not one for listening to gossip or fueling it,
wasn’t about to listen to Nedra get raked over the coals just because some
other women were jealous of her success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He poked his head in their conversation and both of their expressions
changed immediately, as did their tones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Seeing the immediate change made him wonder about what Nedra had told
him about other women fighting over him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But that wasn’t important now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you even know whom you’re talking about?” he had asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you mean?” the blonde asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That ‘black bitch in physical chemistry,’ you called
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you know her name?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” the blonde said, her lips drawing up in a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">moue</i> of distaste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No one does.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why would you insult her like that, then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is she a bitch because she’s good at what she
does?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well…um…no…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is it because she <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i>
black?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Uhhhmmm</i>…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The blonde looked completely uncomfortable. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The brunette eyed her watch and looked away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The blonde could expect no help from her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why insult her then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You just called her a bitch and a whore. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could have easily bought the car
herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When did it become a bad thing
for a woman to be successful at what she does and yet you insult her because
you don’t like the way she looks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re
disgusting.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The woman found herself caught in his angry gaze, and she
had no weapon with which to fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Or is the reason for your vitriol simply because she has
dark skin and curly hair <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> is more
successful and powerful than you are?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After Nedra had explained how much Franklin depended on her, Victor had
done some checking and quickly learned that the older man was justified in
having her as an ally.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The blonde had no immediate comeback and the woman she was
talking to quickly left.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re pathetic,” Victor said before walking away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He now understood Nedra’s desire for
anonymity and why sightings of her were so rare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>
kind of hate was what she had to deal with on a daily basis…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He leaned up against her beautiful new car, fingering the
delicate black lily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was not the same
complexion as Nedra’s earth-brown skin, but when he laid eyes on it, he knew it
was the flower he wanted to give her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
didn’t take her for a flowers-and-candy type of woman, but the chocolate calla
called to him and he had to order it for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He couldn’t go to her empty-handed; that was some lame punk-ass shit Johnny or Reed would do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Soon he heard the clicking of her shoes and the sound of her
voice as she talked to her wack-ass boyfriend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor rolled his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The man in her life was nothing more than a ploy she kept throwing in
his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But he was obsessed with
seeing Nedra again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All he wanted was to
lay eyes on her once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t
seen her since she put on her jeans, grabbed her boots and ran out of his
apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d been in such a hurry to
leave that she left her panties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
understood her anxiety; they’d just finished executing a Kama Sutra position and
while extremely enjoyable, it was physically taxing for them both. He had
barely had the strength to gently lay her on the floor before collapsing beside
her, out of breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s legs were
trembling uncontrollably, as were his own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She couldn’t get enough breath to form words and tiny tears were in the
corner of her eyes as her chest heaved and her body quivered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m not going to be able to go to work tomorrow,” she
moaned after a few minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was thusly affected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It took a long time for his legs to stop shaking and he turned on his
side to look at Nedra, who couldn’t face him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She sat up, practically by will and crawled over to her jeans and pulled
them on with an effort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra didn’t
bother putting on her boots, but she looked down at him and said, “I don’t ever
want to see you again,” before walking out of the room as fast as her sore legs
and hips could take her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He heard his
door unlock and her footfalls descend the stairs but he didn’t have the
strength to get up and follow her out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He could hear every word of her phone call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he laid eyes on her, she was wearing a
form-fitting black pinstripe dress that gathered around her neck and left her
shoulders and arms bare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She carried the
matching jacket and sported a pair of sexy, sexy black stilettos with shiny red
soles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For a moment, he couldn’t breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In regular clothes, Nedra was a knockout, but
when she was suited up…she was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">nuclear</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And he was already hard, but he was going to
keep it to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a goal
here, an objective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She hadn’t been happy to see him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor had enjoyed their exchange; it frazzled her and
amused him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t able to own up to
her truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when she left, he was
irritated and frustrated. Nedra told him that he could not compete with her
boyfriend; that he didn’t even know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how</i>
to, and that how her boyfriend was able to express his love for her required
methods that were foreign to him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That insult
cut him to the bone and he was superstar pissed about it, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Later, as he drove away in his Range Rover, he had all the
information he wanted and now it was time to do some recon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared up at his swirling fan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘We’ll
see about that.’ </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">All I wanna know
baby/if what we had was good/how come u don’t call me anymore<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He had connections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His three years in solitude bore extensive fruit via Internet associates
and deep-web contacts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were plans
to be made, data to be collected, and an objective to be achieved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were boundaries that would have to be
crossed and people that would need to be paid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He needed time away from the world and he needed plenty of resources at
the ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could do most of what
needed to be done with a few emails from a dummy account and the rest by hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of what he needed to do required a
personal touch, and others he didn’t trust anyone to do correctly but himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Sometimes it feels
like I’m gonna die/if you don’t call me mama/girl you got to try<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t know how tenacious Victor could be when he
wanted something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And she had basically
confirmed that she still wanted him, but in a way that was beneficial to her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He interpreted that to mean a way that didn’t
interfere with her relationship with her boyfriend…who was a non-factor as far
as Victor was concerned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor felt feverish but knew he didn’t have a physical
fever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cool air from the fan felt
good on his hot skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was naked, as
it was simply too hot to wear anything, and besides he liked being <i>au naturale</i>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor gripped the broken stem in one hand,
closing his eyes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Calla lilies didn’t
have thorns, but he would have welcomed the discomfort of a dozen pinpricks in
his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even a little blood…something
to take the edge off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Down on my knees
beggin you please, please…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She still wanted him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That was all he needed to know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She could play games with her memories and her emotions, but he wasn’t
about to do the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew what he
was going to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If she wouldn’t act, he
would.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Why on earth can’t you
just pick up the phone/You know I don’t like to be alone<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor still had her plum-colored lace panties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He washed them in his bathroom sink,
regretting that he had to wash away the scent of her, but he wanted to keep
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The memory of how they looked on
her may as well have been a hot pink Post-It note stapled to his forehead, it was
so vivid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She’d undressed to everything but the lingerie and stood in
the mirror playing with her hair and he ogled the shit out of her while she
primped…even though they were about to get in the shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had an ass that rivaled Serena
Williams’ and it was all he could do not to fall to his knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was around that time when Victor
discovered he was an ass man. Nedra had magnificent tits, but her ass was an attribute men would go to war over.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He began to rub his chest and abs with her panties, eyes closed,
head lost in memory and Prince’s on-point lyrics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Why, why must you
torture me/why must you torment me so<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">At some point, she’d have them back, but for now it was
necessary to make use of them because he couldn’t stop thinking about how good
she looked and soon the lace moved downward and offered a fast assist in a withdrawal
from the spank bank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t help
it; it didn’t take long…the way that dress hugged her ass and her legs were fire
branded into his mind, and no…it didn’t take long at all before his little piece
of Nedra was covered with pieces of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The next week was a much calmer week for Nedra and her
staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was waiting to hear from the philanthropists,
but she had plenty to keep her busy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon
was coming home in a few days and she wanted to wrap up some tasks so that she
could have time off with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra put
in her request to be off as soon as Jon suggested they go somewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was sitting at her desk, listening to
music, lighthearted and happy, and Keria Dawson, her second-in-command, teased
her about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ve got that look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon’s coming home soon, isn’t he?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Damn, is it that obvious?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra had a Blow-Pop in her mouth as she scanned her monitor and bobbed
her head to 2Pac’s “Toss it Up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Girl, you hardly ever grin like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He must have called or something.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was normally practical and
matter-of-fact; she rarely laughed on the job, so seeing her happy made Keria
happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m smiling because number one, we got those damn
presentations out of the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was
stressful as fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And two, I feel really
good about our chances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can give you
guys a raise.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria leaned against the doorframe of Nedra’s office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Shit, if we can get an electron microscope
we don’t have to share with those dweebs in Genetics, I’d be fine with that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bullshit you would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ve got the best staff in this place and I want to keep them happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t nothin’ satisfy us like a check.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was particular about who worked for
her; she had an all-female research team…women who would get overlooked or
slighted elsewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was one of many
reasons she asked Franklin to get her a workspace separate from the rest of
Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The shade was real.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You right,” Keria said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then she looked out of the window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We’ve got a visitor—or rather, you do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was sitting at her desk, bobbing her head back and
forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Him,” Keria said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“He comes by from time to time looking for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shocked the hell out of me when he flat out
asked for you by name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew shit was
real when that happened.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked up and saw Victor standing at the doors of her
lab.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s Victor von Doom, isn’t it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was wondering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Isn’t he that nutjob who set fire to Franklin’s
data servers about four years ago?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The one
and only.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria twisted her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Why Franklin wanted him back is beyond me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fucking asshole should be in jail for that
shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he’d done that to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">our</i> data servers—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I would have shot him in the head and left you to carry on,
Key.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But lucky for him, he burned down
Franklin’s shit instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’d be surprised
at how forgiving Franklin is, especially considering what Victor can do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must admit, the man is a computer
virtuoso, a mathematical prodigy, an engineering wunderkind…a man who can make
enormous inductive leaps on evidence that is, at best, twerky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The things he can do…he’s a fucking phenom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understand why Franklin needs him and
wasn’t willing to throw him to the wolves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s not so bad once you get to know him,” Nedra heard herself saying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria eyed her friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“So you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">do</i> know him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah, a little bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin introduced us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Has
anyone else seen him here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria tapped her pen against her lip and stared at
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I think Natalie saw him one
afternoon, but that’s all I can remember.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She gave him a little half-smile and waved. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He’s cute though.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You should hit him up,” Nedra said, thinking, ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He’s way more than that.’ </i>“I bet he’s on
the market.”<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria flat-out stared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“He’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really</i> cute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cuter than I expected him to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a name like Victor von Doom, I was
expecting his ass to look like the Count on Sesame Street, or a comic book
villain.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra pulled her lollipop out of her mouth before she choked
on it with laughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keria was a
nut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fool, did you just say the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Count</i> on Sesame Street?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He’s
from Latveria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May as well be Count
Victor von Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know, I’ve been
watching too many Dracula movies lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s a Hammer marathon on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s
wearing black…he could be a vamp…and a fine one at that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra couldn’t stop giggling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keria had a thing for vampires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Even more reason for you to slide him your
number.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure he likes black girls
and I am 78.3% positive he’s single.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria looked at Nedra, a teasing smile on her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">course</i>
he likes black girls, but it’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your</i>
ass he’s looking for, not mine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Girl, please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor’s too young for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What is he, maybe a minute over 34?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you’re 40.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck outta here with your bullshit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He ain’t that damn young.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she giggled and looked at Victor again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Let me see you toss <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> up!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You forget that I have a tall, dark, and handsome soldier at my beck and call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s no
comparison.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“True.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon’s fine as fucking
hell and were we <i>not</i> friends...</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">but the more I look at him, Victor’s no slouch either. He’s pretty hot, but a man
crazy enough to do the shit he did to Franklin isn’t a man I can roll with.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">What is it you Marines say?</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Semper Fi?</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Well, Victor didn’t Semper nor Fi to Franklin.”</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria put down her clipboard and pen.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m done for the night, Nedra.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You want me to let him in?</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It’s you he wants to see.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Anyone
else here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Girl, you know the only person who’s here after I’m gone is
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’m getting ready to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll let Count Cutie in on my way out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra had to giggle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Count Cutie indeed. </span>“Bye!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drive safely!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Keria threw up a wave as she carefully went down the stairs that led
to the lab floor. She walked with a limp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra remained in her
office, getting herself together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dealing with Victor required armor and hers was already cracked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put on her Beats and immersed herself in
her computer monitors, but she was already giving her Blow-Pop a workout at the
mere thought of Victor being in the same room with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last week wasn’t that long ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then he was standing in her doorway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra glanced up and he cocked his head to
one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed her eyes and
pretended to sigh in frustration as she slipped off her earphones and removed
the Blow-Pop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are you doing here?”
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I came to see you,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Wanted to check out your Bat cave.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
wanted to see my lab?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, do a 360 and
take a look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know where the door is.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s enormous,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It is,” she replied, with a sense of pride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And you now know that it isn’t physically
attached to the Baxter building in any way…which is why I’m annoyed Franklin
told you how to find me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I understand your need to be out of the way,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I wish I could have my own space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate working with those sanctimonious
little shits.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t take it for granted,” she replied, getting up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, it’s after midnight and I’m going to
leave in a little while, but I have a few things to do before I leave…so state
your business and be along your way.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I told you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted
to see you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put the lollipop back in her mouth and closed her
eyes, thinking of parallel tracks this interaction could take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a split second to figure out which
track would give her what she wanted with the least resistance and the fastest
results.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re here for more than a look-see,” she said, talking
around the lollipop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I am, at that,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She removed the Blow-Pop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Should I guess?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not sex.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was truly surprised at that statement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Really</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You seem surprised.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, considering our most recent encounter…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor walked towards her and Nedra caught a whiff of his
scent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What was that?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck, he
smelled good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within seconds, he was
standing in front of her and then just as suddenly, he was holding her
hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t get me wrong…that hasn’t
changed for me, but it is not why I’m here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m so confused right now,” she said, pulling her hands
away and inserting the Blow-Pop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
turned away from him and stared at one of her screensavers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a selfie of her and Jon at a cantina
in Phuket, and she couldn’t help but smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor was right behind her, staring at the back of her
neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No, you’re not.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He turned her around and with a boldness she
found both stimulating and annoying, removed the Blow-Pop from her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed a clean piece of paper from her
desk and wrapped the lollipop in it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Excuse you,” Nedra said, rolling her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was enjoying that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re not confused,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You know why I’m here and you know it’s not
just for sex…though if you wanted me to bend you over your desk, I’d do it in a
heartbeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know what I want, what I
need from you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s because of you that I
need it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to kiss you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wished she’d never instigated that first kiss, but the man had a mighty fine
mouth and she couldn’t help herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
understood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boy, did she ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if she let Victor kiss her, she would
never be rid of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never</i> go away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s what I came here for,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“To see you and to have one more kiss from
those lips.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s
all you want?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A kiss?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One kiss and you’re done?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was a brilliant woman, but right now she was either pretending to
act stupid, or was actually having a stupid moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would never be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">done</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Kiss me, Nedra,” he said, smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t make me beg.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked around and of course, saw no one in the lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wondered if it was guilt that made her
look around, because God help her, she wanted to kiss Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looked great and smelled even better, and
lord…it had been a month since she’d last had sex, which was the morning Jon
left for Bosnia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since running upon
Victor last week, she’d been masturbating like a fiend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That fucking speeding ticket was going to be
over a thousand dollars and she thought she ought to make him pay for it, since
it was his fault she’d gotten it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No one’s here but you and me and you don’t have any
security cameras in your office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If <i>that</i>
eases your conscience.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How do you know that—” she started to say, but he didn’t
let her finish. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put a finger against
her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You can find something far
more useful for those lovelies to do than <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">talk</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra put her hands on his cheeks, closed her eyes and let go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor put his arms around her and his hands
on her ass and let her take control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moments
later, she had him up against the wall by her file cabinet, her arms around his
neck, kissing him as if her life depended on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His mouth was as sweet as she remembered,
sweeter even.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had been so long since
they kissed and she hated admitting to herself that she missed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His lips were warm, soft; his mouth inviting,
like he’d been feasting on candy before coming to see her, and she was a
greedy, horny thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hands were on
her ass, gripping, pushing her closer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor broke the kiss and stared at her, a sexy, devious
smile on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra stared at him,
her breathing hard and looking a little bit confused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why’d you stop?” she asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor ran his thumb over her lips and without thinking; she
took it into her mouth, closing her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He watched her suck his thumb for about three seconds when she realized
what she was doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Embarrassment lit up
her face like fire as she mumbled an apology and stepped back, releasing him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why are you apologizing?” he asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I went a little too far,” she said, looking away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t mind,” he said, sucking his thumb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How long has it been?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“A month.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Says the woman who has to have it regularly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Shut up,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
can keep it together and go full nympho when Jonathan comes home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You shouldn’t have to wait,” he said, looking at her screen
saver, “but I bet he doesn’t complain.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You of all people oughta know that he
doesn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You
have other options.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kiss me again,” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You clearly enjoy it. I know I do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked at her screen saver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I got a little carried away.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Get carried away again,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s just us; me and you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come on now, Marine. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t tell if you won’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, why are you making this so hard?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I’m</i> not making
anything hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He captured her hand and brought her back to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Kiss me again, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like you mean it this time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She stood, eyes demurely lowered so that she wouldn’t have
to look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He liked her demure act and leaned in to whisper in her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You don’t want me out of your life.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was as clear as the glass walls in her
lab.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We can’t…we can’t do this…” Nedra whispered as he kissed
her neck and the side of her face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why not?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
kissed the pulse at her throat, which was beating rapidly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without warning, he gripped her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why can’t we?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why are you being so obstinate?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She didn’t want to argue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She didn’t want to debate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
didn’t even want to talk, because talking to him did nothing but frustrate
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So Nedra kissed him again and like
before, allowed herself to let go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
one would ever know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one even <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">knew</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This time, however, Victor controlled the outcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He turned so that she was up against the wall
this time and lifted one of her legs so that he could press into her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra moaned against his lips as he lifted
her leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was so hard and she was
going to cream her jeans if she didn’t get some sort of relief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she had to keep it together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a kiss; a much-needed
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bon mot</i> for both of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They deserved that much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She ran her fingers through his hair and broke the kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You let your hair grow out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You like it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like the way
it feels between my fingers.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then grab it,” he said, claiming her mouth once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "Grab it." </span>He remembered thinking that kissing her was
akin to being forgiven for all his sins and that had not changed.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Another minute passed and Nedra pulled away reluctantly. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh shit,” she groaned, feeling herself get slick.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I have to stop—we have to stop.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you getting
wet?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It doesn’t matter,” she said, as he still held her leg in
the crook of one arm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh it does,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Tell me what you want, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ll do anything you say, you know that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, I can’t…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why can’t you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
just one more kiss, isn’t it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s why
I came to see you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For your kisses. <i>All</i> your kisses.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know good and damn well that isn’t why you’re here!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“But it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told
you so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All we’ve done is kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven’t instigated anything else.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He also hadn’t put her leg down, but Nedra couldn’t think
beyond the throbbing in her jeans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You
don’t know how to leave well enough alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right?” he said, still holding her leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is that what you think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I can’t let you anywhere near my pussy,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You know I can’t.” He would own every bit of it and she <i>just...couldn't...let...that...happen...<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor pushed up against her and then took a moment to
slowly wiggle his hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Too late for
that, don’t you think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re such a dick,” she said, closing her eyes, enjoying
the moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re an asshole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You came here to torture me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ll feel better if you simply tell me what you want,” he
said, almost whispering it into her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I won’t request anything, but I will take requests.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra thought her vagina was going to implode.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d already slicked her panties; if he kept
this up, her jeans would soon follow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She wanted to tell him to go away, to get on a plane to Paris, to die a
horrible death in a fire, to do anything not near her…but her secret heart
wouldn’t let her. Not this close.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want you to eat me out,” she said, in a voice so low she hoped a mouse would fart and drown it out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
hoped he hadn’t heard her because she couldn’t bear repeating it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">But of course he did, and without missing a beat, released
her leg and looked into her eyes as he unfastened her USMC belt buckle and
unzipped her jeans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hooked his
fingers around her jeans and panties and pushed them down over her hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he dropped to his knees and looked up at
her, his expression serious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are you sure you want me to do this, Nedra?” As if he were agreeing to a contract.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes,” she said, squeezing her eyes shut as her hand drifted
between her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was already
starting to pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh God, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yes</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor yanked her jeans to her ankles and </span><span style="font-size: large;">annoyingly </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">swatted her hand
out of the away before he stuck his face between her thighs and took
a deep breath.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then he did as she asked,
and soon she had double handfuls of his hair and couldn’t stop the surging of
her hips against his face as he took his pleasure.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her
thighs muffled his enjoyment, but she could hear him clearly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">His hands had a tight grip on her ass, as usual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Mmn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mmmmn…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">mmmmmn</i>…” and then there was the sucking and his dirty words...and all that did was make her wetter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra’s eyes rolled back into her head as her climax tore
through her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What did it take…two
minutes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt cheap, easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She started trembling and all he did in
response was shove his face further in because he didn’t want to miss not one
bit of cherry extract.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could hear
him slurping and the world fell away as her knees weakened and she could no
longer stand.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>Fuck,</i> <i>he knew how to eat pussy!</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">At some point, sanity and her vision returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra blinked rapidly, realizing she was
staring up at her ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a
note Jon put up there years ago to keep her attentive whenever she found
herself daydreaming.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">ROXY, YOU SHOULD BE WORKING!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The words focused and she gasped, realizing that she was on
the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor lay beside her,
smiling and licking his fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
shrieked and sat up, grabbed her pants and yanked them up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She zipped her jeans and fumbled with the
belt buckle and uttered a frustrated “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Damn</i>!”
when she couldn’t get it to latch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I would have done that for you,” he said, licking his glossy lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ve done enough,” she said, lying back down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was too wiped to get to her feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I only did what you asked,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That made you happy, didn’t it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She couldn’t lie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It pleased me too. Sweet, sweet Nedra,” he said, putting his hand between her
thighs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’d forgotten just how
ridiculously hot you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Stupid me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t forget again.” Her sex appeal was off the charts and he craved her like an addict. Like she predicted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, don’t do this,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t do what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lick
your pussy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You told me to do it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t come visit me at work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My office smells like sex now and I have to
Febreeze the shit out of it…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Ah,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Would
you rather I come to your house? If I do <i>that</i>, I'm going to do more than eat you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This
isn’t happening again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He kept going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can
meet you at your car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d love to eat
you out in your new car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d put one of
your feet on the steering wheel and the other over the passenger side headrest
and enjoy every bit…you liked it when I used my nose and goatee that time...”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sat up too fast and her head swam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took a moment to calm herself down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor sat up and smiled at her before
whispering in her ear: “I’ll do it if you want me to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll love it even more if you wear that dress
and those shoes and you let me finger-fuck that fat pussy until you come all over the
seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll get on my knees and lick it
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll do whatever you say, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m at your command, so command me, Master Sergeant.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She stared at the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her throat was a place where words went to die.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You know what I really want to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Investigate your preference for a strong hand
on your throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> How strong is strong...does it <i>have</i> to be a hand? I need to know. </span>I’d love to examine your
need of liking things hard and your desire to be…what did you say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Manhandled?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want to quantify that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we’d
have to do that at my house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or
yours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you have a four-poster bed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not, I can buy you one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’d need leverage and support, you know. That whole dirty bad girl thing...”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra continued to stare at the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her mouth was so dry she was having trouble
forming words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was still talking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">fetish</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call it whatever you want, but I've had to have it ever since you left me.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">impossible</i>,”
she choked out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was still trying to
find her vocabulary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The things I suggest are not impossible,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Or implausible.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stood up, dusted off his slacks and looked down at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I am a man who will do anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s best you understand this now,
Nedra.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">She stared up at him, feeling small under his dark, seriously sexy gaze. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then he went over to her desk
where her iPhone was and asked for her passcode.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was so beside herself considering what
he’d said and still searching for her voice that her finger shot out and drew
the pattern in the air without even thinking about it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It was a moment or two later when she heard her
ringtone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Startled, she looked up and
saw Victor at her desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra got to her
feet and grabbed her phone only to see Victor smiling at her in that same devious way he had earlier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s my number,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Use it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And now I have yours.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He waved his phone at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had a small fridge in the corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra stumbled to it and took out a water
bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She chugged the entire thing
without stopping and wiped her mouth with her sleeve when she finished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t know what just happened,” she said, staring at him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Surely your memory isn’t that bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want me to eat you again, just ask. You know I love your cherry-flavored pussy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
mean afterwards…I actually lost my voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Did you put a spell on me or something?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you think I am, a wizard?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know my head game--as you call it--is sublime, but I have never
rendered anyone silent before.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra started packing up her backpack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You may be the biggest douchenozzle I’ve
ever met.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you even hear yourself?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She no longer had the ability to do any
coherent work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What she really
wanted—needed—was a good fucking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
would have been fine had Victor not come calling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now she had to make sure she didn’t get
another speeding ticket on the way home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He was perched on the edge of her desk, smiling at her, his
lips pink like candy, licking them slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra didn’t look
at him long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t trust herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good night, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have to walk you out, of course, because there’s no way you’re staying
in my lab alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I have no need to be here if you’re not.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She grabbed her purse, turned off her monitors, and snatched
her key fob from her backpack side pocket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Let’s go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you following me home or am I following you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m walking you
out of my lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t give a shit where
you go once you’re outside of that door…but your ass better <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> follow me home. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you guys done with the matter
transporter?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why are you here and not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">there</i>? Like for real…you seriously need
to get a girlfriend or something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
got way too much time on your hands if you’re all the way over <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">here</i> in Physical Chemistry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Fine,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
mean, I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">could</i> do that, but it’d be a
lie…unfair to her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was done talking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She walked out of her office, closed and locked it, reminding herself to
Febreeze it the next day, then walked down the stairs and across her enormous
laboratory to the giant glass doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Victor followed her in silence. </span>She
opened one and Victor walked out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
closed the door and set the lock code.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then she looked at her visitor and gave him a very weak smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good night, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thanks for visiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please don’t
do it anymore.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He put his hands in his pockets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need more space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the way, who’s Roxy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The sign on your ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It said, ‘Roxy, you should be working.’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Are you Roxy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra shouldered her backpack and fixed her belt
buckle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My middle name’s Roxanne. I'm named after my mother and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon calls me Roxy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Cute,” he said in a tone that wasn’t.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra turned away from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Good night, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drive
safely, rest well…but go <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">home</i>!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She walked as fast as she could down the
hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once she got to the elevator, she
looked back to see him still there, watching her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He waved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good
night, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick-3.html" target="_blank">next</a></span></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-13095273598761577002016-04-20T21:23:00.001-07:002016-04-23T09:31:30.188-07:00Lovesick<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fandom: The Fantastic Four<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Pairing: Victor/Nedra<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Rating: NC-17.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
mean, do I even need to say it??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Disclaimer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
von Doom, Franklin Storm, and the Baxter Building are Fox & Marvel’s
property.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra Nix, Jon Holland, and
any other characters, locales, and brands not under the aforementioned scope
are my property.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This includes Yang’s,
Victor’s favorite Chinese joint.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Timeframe:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This story
picks up six weeks after where “Playing Pool With Planets” left off, but <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">before</i> the end scene where Victor finds
Nedra at the Coke machine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, it
would serve the Dark Dilettantes well to know that as it relates to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> story, that scene officially no
longer exists (though I am not removing it from the story itself).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result, this makes the events in
“Otherside of the Game” nonexistent, but I ain’t taking <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">it</i> down either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just think
of it as a Nedra/Victor “Choose Your Own Adventure.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnl9b1tVjWS8TjCGoVZG0wvusb8LvYvsGeef-KB20PDLOxGYDHYJeVkCYzLVWeVWWEUmIvKV-hQfF_8y9Qfci2dmd5IS7diRtL3WKmd5ChTzyRFN8-jcjt8V_XZo9oTmEN9LVD30x7gW5/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-04-18+at+1.29.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnl9b1tVjWS8TjCGoVZG0wvusb8LvYvsGeef-KB20PDLOxGYDHYJeVkCYzLVWeVWWEUmIvKV-hQfF_8y9Qfci2dmd5IS7diRtL3WKmd5ChTzyRFN8-jcjt8V_XZo9oTmEN9LVD30x7gW5/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-04-18+at+1.29.20+PM.png" width="224" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A/N: Because Victor did not get the screen time he so
blatantly deserved in Fan4stic and because I have a serious, serious case of
lady wood for the glorious Toby Kebbell (I mean, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">look</i> at this man), and because the Muse is serenading, and also
because I’m feeling sleazy, I decided to put him in one of my playgrounds where we can have some freedom and fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra, being my own creation, goes wherever I want her to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A/A/N:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Noob
encouraged me to watch <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">RocknRolla</i>,
which I happily did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We won’t go into
how FIVE of the men on my He Can Get It list are doin’ it in that hilarious
flick…and how I missed its existence for 8 years!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mr. Kebbell plays a junkie rock star (like a
fuckin’ boss) and at the end, he gets clean (and I do mean <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">clean</i>)…and well, I decided to use that particular end persona as
rocket fuel for this story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You watch
it, you’ll see why.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sweatergawd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Summary:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Five weeks
after getting Victor to return to the Baxter Building using her lethal arsenal, Nedra goes on with her life as a research chemist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor, however, won’t be so easily dismissed, discarded, or
disregarded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">1: Bad Habits</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra normally left the job after midnight, but tonight it
was closer to 2 a.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was one of those
days; one of those weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While Franklin
was able to secure Nedra 60% of the funding she needed for her research, she
still had to hustle the other 40%.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
past couple of weeks had been building towards today, when she had to make two
separate presentations to two extremely wealthy philanthropists who were
curious about her work in computational biochemistry and electron
pathways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For whatever reason, both
decided they wanted to hear her presentation on the same damned day, and it
cost Nedra 18 hours at the office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was going to spend the next two days off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She needed to be mindless for 48 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Balance was important and besides, she knew she’d been successful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her research was cutting-edge with enormous
benefits to the medical field, especially Big Pharma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If she landed those particular blue whales of
the physical chemistry research ocean, she’d have damn near unlimited funding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon would be so proud of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin would be as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would be loathed by some of her
colleagues and outright hated by others who were also competing for additional
funding, but Nedra didn’t care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
one of the reasons why she asked Franklin for a certain level of anonymity at
Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew how petty her colleagues
could be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was in the massive underground garage walking towards
her car, her jacket folded over one arm; in the hand covered by the jacket was
her trusty snub-nosed .38 Smith & Wesson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had her bag over her other shoulder, keys in hand while listening to
Tech & the Effx’ “Perfect Match.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her phone rang and paused the music, and she smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jonathan always called her every night within
the same two-hour time period and she was always prepared for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra clicked the ANSWER button as she
walked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My Captain,” she said, her smile wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was a captain in the Marines before he
retired.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tell me what you wore, Roxy.” Jon said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“For presentation 1, I wore your favorite: the pink and
black Chanel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the matching
stilettos, of course.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And the second?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My</i> favorite: the
black pinstripe Givenchy and the Louboutins.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Hair?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Keva pressed it and twisted it up into the flyest up-do
this side of the Atlantic.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon chuckled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
loved his laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And underneath?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well of course my lingerie matches whatever I wear,
darling.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m certain that they’re going to throw a pile of money at
you, especially if you were rocking those killer outfits and looking like the
woman of their secret dreams.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She feigned a sigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Old white men can be predictable and I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">will</i> play that game if it gives me what I want, but one’s son was
present and tried to shoot holes in my research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to say, he ended up having a nice
hot cup of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">shutthefuckup</i> and a
stadium’s worth of seats when I was done dissecting his ass.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon let out a hearty laugh this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I would have paid all the money to see his
face when you broke him down Master Sergeant-Dr-Nix-style.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then his tone changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I miss you, Roxy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two weeks more and I’m home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would love it if we could catch a weekend
somewhere.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’ll catch anything anywhere with you, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You let me know when and where.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One thing she was not good at was making travel
plans.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Already on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How
are you liking your present?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I love it; thank you.” She blew kisses into the phone as
she turned the corner where the present, a brand new platinum BMW G13 7 Series
sat in her parking space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She missed a
beat when she saw what came next, but Jon didn’t catch the catch in her
voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I go out on weekends to that
abandoned runway and open her up.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
stopped walking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It makes me so horny,
so you need to come back and go with me so we can christen it afterwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really need my big, strong captain to come
see about me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hadn’t had sex since
he left and masturbation only took a woman so far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jon laughed again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Will do, Master Sergeant Nix.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Dr. Nix to you,” she teased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Love you baby, but I gotta run.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Text me when you get home, gorgeous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In your lingerie.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stared at her car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I most certainly will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good
night, baby.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hung up the phone,
disbelieving her eyes as she absently cut the music, which had come back on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor Von Doom was casually posted up against the passenger
side of her brand new car, in a suit—an unheard-of concept, according to
many—holding a large black calla lily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was an absolutely stunning bloom; the leaves were a deep green
flecked with white and there was a thin red bow tied around the upper stem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wondered how much it cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Normally, Nedra wasn’t into flowers, but
she’d never seen a black lily before, and this particular flower was a
showstopper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It rivaled the beauty of
its holder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had her .38 at the ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever Nedra walked from the building to
her car, she was always armed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
the Baxter garage was monitored and safe, Nedra’s time in the Marines had
hardened her and she wasn’t about to get got.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At least not in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anybody who tried to fuck with her in the
parking lot was going to have a bad day.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This</i> way, however…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She closed her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The last time she’d seen him was five weeks ago, very nearly running out
of his apartment after getting what was likely the best sex she’d had in recent
years; with Jon included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor folded
her into a ‘V,’ penetrated her fully and held her in the air while
long-stroking her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra wasn’t
physically or emotionally able to go to work the next day and she told Victor
she never wanted to see him again as she ran out of his apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When she opened her eyes, he was both smiling and smirking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How he achieved it, only he knew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she knew—deep in that place where women
just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">knew</i> things—he was recollecting
those same memories.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You look unequivocally incredible, Nedra.” he said,
standing up to greet her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She uttered five quiet words: “How did you find me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He spread his arms and shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m persistent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may be surprised at how far it gets you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra turned and looked around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the lot was empty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She spied a Range Rover and wondered if it
was his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she looked at him and
unlocked her car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What did I say to you
before I left you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Before you ran away from me, you mean.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What did I say</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You never wanted to see me again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’s still true, you know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The absolute verifiable truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be a commandment.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My God, you look unbelievable,” he complimented again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Like that dress was cut to fit you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The woman had an hourglass figure and a
snarky sensibility that drove him batshit insane from the time the Marine
walked into his house wearing tight jeans, a snug T-shirt, and a fucking gun on
her hip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had been crazy enough to
bait her with sex…but maybe not so much because she agreed to give him exactly
what he wanted and as much of it as he could get within that time span.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stared at him as she walked around the front of her
gleaming car, knowing he was staring at her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It was.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She stopped at the rear driver’s side door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why are you here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No need to get those sexy panties in a bunch or be all
offended and persnickety,” he teased, raising one sardonic eyebrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Though I’ll forgive you anything in that
dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But to answer your question, I
have something for you,” he said, holding up the lily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra opened the rear door and put her bag and jacket inside
of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had stashed her other suit in
the trunk earlier in the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
exhausted and did not feel like dealing with Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At all, pretty flower aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want it,” she said, closing the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She walked to the driver’s side door, her gun
in hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor came around and stood on
the other side of her door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This particular species came a long way for you, Dr.
Nix.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He held it out to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t want to see you, Victor.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put the gun on the passenger side seat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t want to, or can’t bear to?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t. Want. To.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why not?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You already know the answer to that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are many things…an asshole douche being
number one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But you are not an
idiot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know damn well why.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Because you enjoy me more than you care to admit.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He extended the lily once more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Because you don’t know how to stay in your lane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t let that be what it was: a job, a
task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were an assignment.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes, calming herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor’s nearness was affecting her in ways
she didn’t want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He used the lily to
touch her lip. “It wasn’t that for me, and it wasn’t that for you either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you handle <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">all</i> your assignments from Franklin that way?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” she said, her hand curling around the doorframe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Of course not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were the most difficult task he’s given
me, and damn, how I regret him for it…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The lily slid over one cheek and Nedra stifled a chuffy
breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her grip on the car door
tightened. “I’ve had a long, long, long day, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hustling big
wigs and fat cats for cash.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra opened her eyes, venom in her tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not all of us are independently wealthy,
asshole!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I have a staff!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Whoa,” he said, backing off just the tiniest bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I wasn’t criticizing you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just the opposite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lot of people knew who you were entertaining
today, and I must say that there are a lot of your ilk who are not pleased
about it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do I look like I give the slightest third of a fuck?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat down in the driver’s seat and
inhaled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Bima still had that new car
smell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Again, what do you want,
Victor?” she asked, removing her patent leather Louboutins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor watched her remove her shoes and gazed longingly at
her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What do you think I want,
Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Sex, of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
all you could possibly want from me, because there’s nothing else we have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll have to get it from Sue or someone
else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like I told you, there are women
here who would gladly bang your back out and drain your dick dry if you so much
as said ‘Please.’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Ever since you hipped me to Sue, I’ve barely noticed her.” He
snorted and slid the lily down her neck and over her bare shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">please</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My mistake,” she said, starting her car with the fob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That wasn’t my business and I’m sorry about
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should have never interfered
with your love life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe if you
figured out how to step to her, she’d give you the attention you need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe your game is weak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe she’d be the kind of wife you
want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve since become convinced you
need one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somebody needs to take care of
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it can’t and won’t be me, so
get that through your head.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
pulled her legs into the car and grabbed her shoes, carelessly tossing them in
the passenger seat well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took a
moment to put her S&W in the glove compartment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The look in Victor’s smoldering brown eyes was obvious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Trying to close all the doors, aren’t you?”
he asked in an equally smoldering voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked him directly in said eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I just want you to leave me alone, Victor.
You’re dangerous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re thermite.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“But you’re still here,” he said, the calla lily hanging
over the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra closed the door so fast that the stem got caught in
the door and broke in two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lily fell
in her lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She rolled down her
window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s nothing here for you,
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m certain you heard my phone
call.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah, so?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
feelings about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i> haven’t changed,
so what?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s boyfriend meant about
as much to Victor as a sand flea on vacation in Moscow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He’s not going anywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s the love of my life, a man I have been with for 18 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon loves me in every way a man can love a
woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t think you have much
experience in that regard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t
even listen to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You certainly will
never be able to take care of me the way he does…and no, money has nothing to
do with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Face it, Vic; you can’t
hang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t compete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So for both our sakes, let this go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor glared at her, anger twisting his features but he
didn’t care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He still wanted Nedra and
to hear her say he didn’t have the ability or capacity to love or take care of
her was insulting; it felt like she stuck her Bowie in his gut...and then had the balls to call him <i>Vic</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That pissed him off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He leaned into her car window and reached
down in her lap for the lily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bloom
was still intact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor scooped it up,
kissed it, and handed it to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
sighed and took it, and then put it on the dashboard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br />
“Challenge accepted,” he said softly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No,” Nedra said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re treating me like my name is Stanley or something
when you don’t know what I’m capable of when it comes to what I want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have no idea what I’ll do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“All we did was fuck,” she said, putting both hands on the
wheel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That was all we did, and no
matter how excellent it was—I will not take that from you—<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sex was all it was</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know
that you’re capable of virtuoso-level exploits and you can fuck like nobody’s
business, but that’s all I know…and want to know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He ran a finger over her arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her skin was so beautiful and so soft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He remembered how good it felt to bathe
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re a liar.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sucked her teeth and glared at the man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s like you don’t understand basic math or
logic when you have two PhDs and are the smartest man I’ve ever met.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Maybe you haven’t noticed, but you make me do irrational,
illogical things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t give a damn
about him or what you have or what he does or how he loves you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t give a fuck about any of that
shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You tell me I can’t compete, but
you don’t know how vicious and tenacious I can be when I want something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>,
Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You make me crave something I didn’t know I even needed until I met you…and if the
love you have with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i> is strong,
then he won’t be scared of a little competition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After 18 years, you better hope he’s not.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What’s going to ruin you is that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you don’t listen</i>, Victor!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon listens to me; every word I say and even the ones I don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m telling you important things and you’re
not listening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You insist on forcing
your way into my life when I don’t want you there.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor took her hand off the wheel, noting that she hadn’t
made the slightest effort to drive away, even though she could have over five
minutes ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had slender hands and
long fingers with nails painted a wicked shade of red that were just long
enough to feel good scraping his scalp and body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had washed his hair and beard while at
his house; it was the first time a woman had ever done that to him and he was
putty in her hands afterwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed
his eyes and kissed her fingers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He noticed that she did not pull away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra squeezed her thighs together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man was indeed dangerous. She thought about all kinds of volatile chemical reactions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Another kiss; this one to the palm of her hand and in a
voice like honey: “Do you really not want me there?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra stared into those liquid brown eyes and
swallowed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was freshly shaven and
clean in every sense of the word, but he let his hair grow out a few
inches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looked good and smelled even
better; 180 degrees from the bum she’d been sent to recruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was partially the sex, but more so the
connection that they’d tentatively established that worried her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor made no secret of his desire for her
and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> terrified her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a soldier; battle-scarred and
hardened, tough to the bone, and had beaten opponents twice her size.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was fearless, but Victor von Doom was
no ordinary opponent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew enough
about him from Franklin that Victor was unstable, and unstable men were…well,
dangerous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra,” he said, his voice quiet, her fingertips on his
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t lie to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you really not want me there?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She could utter the words without her voice shaking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She just needed to breathe slowly and think of her handsome, beloved
Jon…who was coming home in two weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She hadn’t seen him a month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra was trying to wrap up this quarter’s research so she could have a
few weeks with her man when he came home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra pulled her hand away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“There’s nothing for us, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had our night. It happened and it was good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s all,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He touched her lips, tracing them, remembering how good they
felt on his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t fail to notice
that yet again, she allowed him the intimacy of touching her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You didn’t answer my question, Marine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How did you find me?” she said, getting nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why couldn’t you leave me alone; give me
what I asked for?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put her hand on
the gearshift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was time to go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You ask as if I have a choice in the matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I drove myself nuts walking the halls looking
for you for weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your name isn’t
anywhere in this building and people either do not know you by name, do not
know who you are, or are lying about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then finally, I said fuck it and asked Franklin.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra turned on him like a cobra. “<i>YOU DID WHAT?</i>” She didn't want him knowing anything about her and Victor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Relax,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
told him that you left your hat at my house and I wanted to return it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then you also know he said to leave it with him,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“He did say that, but I convinced him that I wanted to give
it to you personally to thank you for convincing me to come back to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate Reed with a singular passion, but his work is solid and
I am marginally impressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Johnny could
go die in a fire as far as I’m concerned, and Sue…Anyway, Franklin bought my
lie and told me where I could find you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But he didn’t tell me you work at night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I must have looked like an idiot to your staff, standing around waiting
for you to show up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Fucking stalker,” Nedra said and gunned the engine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vibration of the V8 calmed her down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I wouldn’t be if you weren’t so secretive.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And yet, you’re here!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This,” he said, stroking the roof, “is what gave you
away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That place is a veritable
grapevine and even though it is something I try to avoid, word trickled down to
the basement that you’d gotten a top of the line platinum G13 7 Series and
folks were green with envy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s a lot
of speculation as to how you got it and who you got it from.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He shrugged and looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So I watched my feeds, greased a few
security pockets and waited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And here I
am.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
didn’t give a damn about them hatin’ ass haters at Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They might talk a ton of shit about her even
if they didn’t really know who she was, but if it wasn’t for her and her badass
squad of chemists and physicists, they would go without a lot of their own
research completed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So they were jealous
of her car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was stupid because a lot of the people who
worked there had nice rides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hell,
Franklin drove a BMW and Dr. Allen drove a big-ass gas-guzzling Mercedes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t help it if </span><span style="font-size: large;">Jon got it in his head to buy her a brand new car and it just so happened to be </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">a state-of-the-art
prototype.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her new whip was sitting in
her parking space in her apartment complex with a big bow on it just five days
ago.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Before then, she drove a 2008
Mustang GT.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra made three different faces and gunned her engine
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It really was time to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, I can’t have you the way I want you
and if I can’t have <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>, then I
don’t want you at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So please, let
this be the end.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put the car in
DRIVE and flew out of her space a lot faster than she intended, nearly running
over his toes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He jumped back, the
broken lily stem in his hand and a devious smile on his face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m afraid that’s not going to happen, sweet Nedra,” he
said, clutching the broken stem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How Soon is Now?” –The Smiths<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Read Your Mind”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>-Avant<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"Cupid Carries a Gun" -Marilyn Manson</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Thinkin’ About You”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>-Tony Toni Tone<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"Foxy Lady" -Jimi Hendrix</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"One More Chance" -The Notorious B.I.G.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/lovesick-2.html" target="_blank">next</a></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-77273100716243982412016-04-13T02:50:00.002-07:002016-04-13T02:50:52.571-07:00Otherside of the Game (4)<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/otherside-of-game-3.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">4: "Call My Name" <i>--Prince</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Victor woke her up at some point for early morning sex, which she sleepily obliged until he did something incredible that woke her up.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Mmmmn, you're spoiling me with all this, sweet thing..."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"I'm a man with a plan, beautiful..." he murmured, lifting her leg up over his back. "I need to go deep."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Go deep," she replied. "And then let's go back to sleep..."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hours later, s</span><span style="font-size: large;">he made them a late breakfast; fresh fruit,
brioche French toast, bacon, sausage, eggs and hash browns.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Victor stumbled out of her bedroom, naked as
a jaybird with more morning wood and bed head.</span><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stood in the kitchen, wearing a Wonder Woman t-shirt and blue
shorts with fuzzy blue claw slippers on her feet. She was singing in a low voice and he caught the end of a verse.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"...<i>they can bug my phone and peep around my home; all they'll see is you and me making love inside</i>..."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When she saw him, she smiled. “Good morning, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“It would have been a better one if I could have made another visit to the Promised Land.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"That first trip wasn't enough for you, Victor? You were all over me."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"You make it seem like I <i>can</i> get enough of you. Knowing you, it may be weeks before you let me have you again. You know, with that whole Where's Waldo thing you got going on at work."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"You found me, though," she said, plating food. "</span><span style="font-size: large;">And you really are a
nudist, aren’t you?”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Nobody’s looking and even if they are, I don’t care.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Come eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then you
need to take a shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s after one and I
have things I got to do today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So do you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Can we shower together? I’d rather do you,” he said, sitting down at the table just
as Nedra plopped a huge plate in front of him.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Of course you would, but then that would take time I don't have. We tend to...linger. Sorry, baby."</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He stared at his plate. Nedra tended to give him a lot of food and he always cleaned the plate. “How am I ever going to go back to Yang’s after all this?” he queried as he tore into his eggs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t cook.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">“There’s thousands of restaurants that deliver quality food
in your area, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quit being a lazy
slob and eat like a man.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat next
to him with a plate nearly equal to his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For a while, there was nothing but the sounds of bending
elbows and creaking jaws.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food was the
most important thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When they were
finished, Victor actually cleared the table and beckoned her into the kitchen
to help him clean up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Shit, have I actually domesticated you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I put my clothes in the dryer before we went to bed last
night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra wiped the counters and stove while he stacked the
dishwasher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "Maybe I should keep you around," she teased.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor frowned as he tried to fit everything into the dishwasher. “You’re a great cook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there anything you can’t do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She pursed her lips and didn't look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Have a baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Victor reached out and touched her cheek and she patted his
hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">“It’s okay.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">I’m past it.</span><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">I probably would have made a shit mother anyway, what with my hobbies and dedication to my research.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> Plus I'm spoiled as hell. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Look, I need to do a quick workout and I’m
sure you want to shower and get dressed.”</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I guess,” he said, wishing he could hole up in here with
her for the week. He could make her feel better about her inability to conceive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra walked down the hall to a room where the door had been
closed all weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor cocked his head to one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d been in every other room in her house
except for that one out of respect for her space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Curious, he followed and once he entered the
room, a huge smile broke out on his face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra had a pole in the center of her room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were small weights in one corner, an
exercise mat, a jump rope, and a set of speakers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He couldn’t shut his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You pole dance?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Dancing is my preferred form of workout when I have time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pole dancing is just one of many kinds of
dance I do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He leaned against the doorframe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What are the others?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Bellydancing, hip-hop, African, Brazilian, and my current
interest: burlesque.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He stared at her, mouth still open. "<i>Burlesque</i>?" His mind filled up with fantasies and ideas and he thought about the next bag of toys he was going to bring to her house next time. Nedra would be a fantastic girlfriend to have. He was convinced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Close your mouth, sweet thing…you’re drawing flies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love to dance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I prefer to do that than 1000 crunches and pushups.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had enough of that
shit in the Corps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, I get my workouts
on with an hour of dancing like no one’s watching. And yes, burlesque. You didn't see <i>everything</i> on my Amazon wishlist.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re going to give me a lap dance in that latex outfit
next weekend,” he said, deadpan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra leaned against her pole and adjusted the crotch of her shorts. “What am I going to get in return?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“A stiff dick, a long tongue, and I’ll even make it rain for
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hundred dollar bills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you say?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was going to destroy her when the dance
was over…right on top of the pile of money he was willing to give her. The latex outfit was crotchless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So it seems like you've got a latex fetish. I can work with that. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I don't turn down anything but my collar, so I’m
game if you are. And you better bring a fat ass wad, bigger than both your fists. My dances aren't cheap.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I’ll go
get cleaned up, because unfortunately, I do need to go by Baxter. There's some last minute calculations I want to go over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you going there as well?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have some
errands to run and I’m going to work here when I get back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do all my research writing at home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Okay then,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A little while later, he was back in his clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra put the velvet bag in the back of her
closet and assured him that its contents would get used soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stood in front of her closed front door, staring down at her
with a myriad of emotions in his expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m nuts about you, Nedra Nix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You say I’m crazy and you’re absolutely right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I needed this weekend; needed this kind of time with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You shouldn't be mad—or surprised—if I start
courting you for real.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra’s hands were on his chest and she couldn't look him in the eye. What was in them was more than she could handle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I said you couldn’t do that, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m in love with another man.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I can do better,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“There <i>is</i> something to be had with me, Nedra, and you know it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You feel it too. You can't even look at me”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She nodded and stubbornly looked in his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is
a good foundation to build on, but I am in love with Jon, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve been together since the Corps, and
that’s 18 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My heart belongs to
him. You can't compete.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t care,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We can make our own history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It can be done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know what you
need, and more importantly, I'll never deny you. And don't ever tell me what I can't do...that's dangerous.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You don't know everything.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“You’ll teach me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To shut him up, Nedra pulled him close and planted a fat
kiss on his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never one to turn down
her lip love, Victor pulled her into a bear hug and damn near sucked her face
off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Here’s my number,” he said, and rolled off a string of
digits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "Use it." </span>Nedra typed them into her iPhone
and called him so he would have hers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra caressed his ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Please think about what I said, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not convinced the
transporter is safe.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t worry about me, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be fine. I'm going back to the lab to check the science, but I know it works.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He kissed her forehead and enveloped her in
his arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hugged him back, closing
her eyes, and they were like that for several moments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emotions filled her mind and
heart and she knew this would pose </span><span style="font-size: large;">serious </span><span style="font-size: large;">problems if she didn’t get her shit together
before Jon came back.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So,” he said, running a finger over her lower lip, “if I
come by the lab tomorrow evening, will you let me in?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra smiled at him as he opened the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Of course. But no nookie. I must preserve the sanctity of my lab.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"And if I decide to come by here later on, will you let me in?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She ran her thumb over his lips. "Do I have a choice?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"That'd be a nah," he said. "You're going to have to deal with me now, but I won't do anything you don't want me to."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Okay," she replied. "Come over if you want."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“See you tomorrow then,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Goodbye, Victor,” she replied, hugging him again. Victor kissed her forehead twice and rubbed her back, holding her tight. "Nedra," he said.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Once he closed the door, she put her back up
against it and slid down, holding her knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unexplained tears dotted the corner of her eyes and she made no attempt
to brush them away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Word spread forth through the Baxter building about the
explosion in the basement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra ran
downstairs as fast as she could and found Franklin in one of the outer offices,
arguing with other executives and security.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could
see the mess…the big huge, ugly mess…on the lab floor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She touched Franklin’s elbow and saw his eyes were wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What happened, Franklin?” Fear gripped her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t know, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While I was arguing with Dr. Allen about his decision to bring NASA in—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Which is the right thing to do,” she said, her heart
growing cold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“…the boys got it into their heads to get in the
transporter and go without permission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nobody even knew about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sue’s
monitor showed that she was trying to bring them back when the entire
transporter blew up.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"With them in it? </span><span style="font-size: large;">Why did you let them think they would get to go, Franklin? They're scientists, they're geniuses, but they do not have the skill set to explore an unknown landscape! There are protocols and you know this!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Nedra, it was a reward for a job well done, and I wasn't going to let them go immediately. I was going to wait until we'd tested the machine a few times before I would have allowed that. You know I'm not stupid! For God's sake, those are my children!"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are they—are they dead, Franklin?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s heart felt like a stone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No. For whatever reason, the explosion didn't kill them. But something happened. They’re running tests on Sue, Johnny, Reed and some other
guy who was with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re...not okay,
Nedra. It's really bad.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tests on Sue, Johnny, Reed and some other guy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What about Victor? Aren't you testing him too?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor didn’t come back, Nedra. We couldn't find him in the wreckage.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes, absorbing that statement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What did you say?”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Franklin looked at her carefully. </span><span style="font-size: large;">“Victor didn’t come back with the others.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">When they become conscious, we’ll find out
what happened to them and to him.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">But
now, <i>it’s…they’re…</i>”</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">He pulled out his
handkerchief and dabbed his eyes. "Sue's phasing in and out of the spectrum, Johnny's on fire, Reed has become...extremely flexible, and the young man that went with them...all of it defies logic and explanation."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Phasing in and out...Johnny's <i>ON FIRE???</i>" She couldn't believe what she was hearing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"He's under observation. They all are. You can't see any of them, Nedra."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"And nobody knows what happened to Victor?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"No."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra could feel her face falling and she didn't want Franklin to see it, so she </span><span style="font-size: large;">turned away from him and started walking.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">She didn’t know where she was going; she just
knew she had to get away from Franklin and the giant pile of fuckshit in front
of her.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> The entire basement lab had been completely destroyed. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The next thing she was aware of,
she was in her car, driving.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">She was on
full autopilot, which was good because she couldn’t think of anything or anyone except Victor.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>'I told you not to go. I told you it wasn't safe.'</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tears began to fall and she let them. In her mind's eye, she saw him in her doorway, holding that bag and smiling at her and he was all she really wanted to see. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But he didn't come back.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The look he gave her when he begged for her kiss.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Victor didn’t come
back</i>.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The warmth of his arms and the feel of his beard against her skin.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Victor didn’t come
back</i>.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The way he gave her head...and other things.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Victor didn’t come
back</i>.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">His smile. Those beautiful brown eyes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">He didn't come back.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">At some point, she became aware of slipping the key into her apartment
door and looked down to see a large box next to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stunned, she picked it up and opened the
door, holding the box against her hip as she closed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was numb.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Victor didn’t come
back</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Autopilot was still on as she tore open the box and found within
another box, this one gift-wrapped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Who’d sent her a gift?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
birthday was months away and she wasn’t big on celebrating it anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was it from Jon?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For a brief moment, her mind wasn't on Victor. </span><span style="font-size: large;">She unwrapped the box and couldn’t contain her surprise...or heartache.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">It was a glass chess set, done in the style
of the periodic table with element symbols as chess pieces.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">There was a card.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Nedra opened it and when she read the note,
the autopilot turned off and the tears began in earnest.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">For the tie-breaker
match and foreplay to my latex lapdance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love, Victor.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra broke, crumpled to the floor with the note in her hand and
screamed his name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And screamed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And screamed. And screamed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">fin</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></i>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">A/N: Lyrics to "Call My Name" belong to the one and only Prince, aka Sir Purple Pimpness. No infringement intended.</span></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-11517965568827361402016-04-12T08:08:00.002-07:002016-04-13T02:52:45.834-07:00Otherside of the Game (3)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/otherside-of-game-2.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">3: "Part Time Lover" <i>--H-Town</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Later, much later, they were in the shower, bathing one
another while making love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
initiated the act and showed him everything she wanted him to do…which he
obediently did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were in her
rainfall for so long the water ran cold and he picked her up and carried her to
the bedroom…where the love continued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was clear that Nedra didn’t give a flying fuck that they’d drenched her duvet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was in a heaven he never thought he’d
get to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time with Nedra was exactly what
his starved soul needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her attention,
care and feeding of his emotions, needs and passion was a panacea to his
torment, isolation and frustration with things beyond his control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was on top, gracing him with her splendid
kisses and his hands were, as always, firmly planted on her ass, kneading and
squeezing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He wanted this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What this was, what they were sharing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The intimacy of lowering his barriers and allowing someone like Nedra
inside to serenade the walls of the heart and show him that he did have a
tender side; that he could exist in a softer variation of the world he had
carefully constructed over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What made her special was that she was not put off by his obnoxious
personality or overall dickishness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She cut
through his nonsense and saw right through him to him…and more importantly,
liked what she saw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted to share
his secret world with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though
Nedra had made it perfectly clear that her heart belonged to another man,
Victor didn’t give a single slice of a fuck about Jon and was perfectly fine going head to
head with him for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was worth it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“When we first met and you tossed out that fuck request, you asked me
how I felt about anal.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her and bit the inside of his lip to keep
from responding and perhaps ruining what might come next.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s something I’ve always wanted to try, but it’s
something you have to do with a lover you trust because, well, you can tear if
they’re not careful…” Nedra seemed to lose her words, almost as if she were ashamed of her request.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Go on,” Victor said, quietly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want to do it with you,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Maybe ten to twelve questions flew through Victor’s mind but
he uttered not a one of them for fear of ruining what might come next.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s been a fantasy of mine…well, ‘fantasy’ is a little
light, but it’s the one thing Jon’s not willing to try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Would you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor cupped her face and allowed two questions to escape,
“Is he crazy or something?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s not
willing to give you sex that you want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s just
uncomfortable with it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Even though you want it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Even though I want it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a tiny negative in a well of positives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I have you here now and you seem like
you’re down for whatever, considering you brought a naughty bag to my house.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A loud breath escaped Victor and he pulled Nedra in for a
kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And another kiss, and one more
kiss.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that a yes?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s a hell motherfucking yes,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I will fuck you any way you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I suppose I trust you to take care of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I asked.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I will take absolute care of you, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promise I will not hurt you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She demurely looked away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I wear a plug from time to time, just because I like the sensation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I’m not completely tight.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra, I’m already hard, but if you keep talking, my dick
will grow like Pinocchio’s nose.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“This is between us, okay?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s just you and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is our
secret, our thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He liked hearing those words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Who in the hell do you think I’m going to
tell? And stop being ashamed of what you want. You're not asking for anything crazy. It's a certain type of sex you're asking me for; nothing to be worried over. Does he make you feel bad about it?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"He just says no; he's uncomfortable with it." </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra shrugged, getting up.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Remove this wet duvet.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I’ll be
right back.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor almost broke his neck getting up and stripping the
duvet from the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sheets
underneath were cool from the wet cover and he opened her closets looking for a
blanket to cover the bed so that she would be warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He found one in her hall closet.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her man was an idiot. A complete idiot. Women like Nedra should not be left wanting. Especially around apex predators like himself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor had the blanket spread on the bed and was drying his hair
with a towel when she came out of the bathroom with a container of lubricant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rest of the merlot was on the table, a
glass ready for her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you up for this, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He side-eyed her with a smirk, which she interpreted as, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘Look at my dick.’</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You wouldn’t deny me anything sexual, would you, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“If my goal is to be your man, hell no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I won't deny you anything. Anything at all. </span>And I gotta say it, but fuck your man for not
giving you all the sex you desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll
pick up his slack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll fill in the
blanks.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then some.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Drink your wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you relaxed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra couldn’t say anything to that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t surprised that Victor saw this
weekend as a serious trial run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could
never ever tell him that she and Jon had an understanding when they were
separated because Victor would take that knowledge and run with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She drank the glass of merlot, handed him the
lube and lay facedown on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
closed his eyes and sighed lustily before joining her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He had become a quick learner over the past day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of being impatient and diving right
on in, he moved her hair up off her neck and dropped kisses on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He massaged her scalp, loving how the kinky
coily curls felt between his fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra moaned as he adjusted his weight and began kissing her spine,
slowly, deliberately, and intensely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re
getting good at knowing what I like.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You told me that it should be organic; to do what comes
natural.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“A+ for my gifted, gifted Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He sat up on her ass and moved right into a massage to calm
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew she was a bit nervous; he
could feel the slightest bit of tension in her muscles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Relax, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will not hurt you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will take care of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can trust me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have thus far.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Mmmmnkay,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Once again her ass was in his hands and he began a deft,
firm massage, liking the sweet little groans rumbling from Nedra’s throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he engaged in what had become a pleasant
pastime; literally kissing her heart-shaped derriere.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I love your ass, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have from day one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t keep
my hands off of it and if you let me come back, I’ll please you like this
whenever you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am an ass man to
the core.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> You brought that out of me."</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">"Just that? You don't feen for anything else I have?"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">"I love having my hands in your hair and you know I'm obsessed with your lips. Your skin is so soft and what can I say about the Promised Land that you don't already know. I love it when you've got your legs around me and your hands in my hair, and when you touch me the way you do...shit, I could go on and on. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">What do you love about me?”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Other than that marvelous weapon you’re packing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your lips, your eyes, that beard, your arms
and your unbelievable strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re a
slender guy but you’re strong as hell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You lift me like I weigh nothing and that is something that most women
find indescribably sexy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get so wet
when you pick me up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He licked the cleft of her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Had I known that, I would have been carrying you
everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like carrying you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come up on your knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not all the way, just enough…like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled into her folded arms, getting aroused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor nipped and kissed her ass like she was
a goddess to be worshipped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To her
surprise, he pressed a kiss on her anus and the sensitivity of it and the
anticipation of what was about to happen made her knees buckle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Hold still,” he said, lubing his fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Slowly he inserted an index, asking her if
she were okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was holding her
breath but he instructed her to breathe slowly and deeply…to relax and she
murmured a quiet “Yes,” before he inserted the second finger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra moaned as he slowly and carefully pulsed his
fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor’s eyes were closed as
the tightness of her ass drew him deeper and deeper into her web.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He continued to stretch her, checking on her
emotional state until he was sure she was ready. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Then he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are
you ready?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes,” she breathed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Put your hand between my thighs and you’ll be able to tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m glad you put this blanket on because if
you get this right, I’m going to drench my bed…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Far be it from him to keep a lady waiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He adjusted her hips and spread her thighs
until she was comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He slicked
his erection with lubricant and put one hand on her cheeks before slowly,
carefully moving inside of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
closed her eyes at the sensation, at the feel of him filling her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part of her itched to tell him to hurry but he
was being careful, which was what she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When he was all the way in, the noise that escaped him meshed with the
one that escaped hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fit was
unbelievable and Victor groaned it aloud.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra, it’s so tight…so fucking tight…I could come from this alone...”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It feels
amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> And you better not. </span>Be slow with your thrusts,
okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s eyes were closed and he waited a moment before
beginning to move within her at the pace she requested. He held her hips and enjoyed the way she felt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, it feels so good,” she moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had no doubt that he was in up to his
balls, because the man never did anything half-assed, pun intended. She liked that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra,” he gasped and their natural rhythms took over and
they moved as one, slowly, steadily, both exclaiming their pleasure as loud as
it required.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Put your hand between my legs,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“See how wet I am; how crazy this makes me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Almost as crazy as you do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor did so and tossed out another barb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your man is a motherfucking fool.” He really couldn't believe it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The pace increased steadily and Nedra rose up on her arms, shaking
her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor grabbed her by her hair
and pulled it in the way he knew she liked and that did it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra exploded in climax and sprayed the bed
with her juice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She collapsed, squirming
with aftershocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor ran into the
bathroom to clean himself up right quick and was back with her before she could
miss him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He covered her body and lifted
her hips before slipping within her, delirious at how wet she was and the sex
continued until he joined her in the realm beyond the Promised Land, and what a
superb place it was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It might have been two or three a.m. when they were back in
Nedra’s tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wanted to soak
afterwards, but this time, Victor was between her knees, getting his hair
washed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I like this,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I like it when you wash my hair and my beard.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m glad,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“It’s seductive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My stylist knows
to spend a good 15 on my shampoo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Did I do okay?” he asked, his voice tentative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You were amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You gave me exactly what I wanted, what I needed, and how I needed it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A++ for my gifted Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Put your number in my phone so I can call you, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to be alone when he isn’t
here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Okay,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was willing to at least try something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But we
will have no contact when Jon is here, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Whatever you say,” he replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would let her needs dictate how that would
go down; if she even so remotely as sent him a good morning text, he would be
at her door before the day was out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
man was a fool to neglect her in a way that mattered to her and it was just the
opening Victor needed to slide right on in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some men were stupid…or Simple Simons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Or both.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He wasn't.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had a pitcher of clear warm water next to the tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Close your eyes,” she said and poured it
over his head, rinsing the soap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
she reached for the towel next to the pitcher and dried his hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Even the slightest of things she did drew him into his private place. </span>It might have been as close to love as he was
able to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Can I wash your hair?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s not the same kind of process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use clay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Like mud?”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mix it
myself, with honey, aloe, herbal essences, and a mixture of oils.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s thick and messy, but when I finish, my
hair is glorious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How long does it take to mix?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, it’s three in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t feel like getting up to that
process.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Well, what about that other thing I’ve seen you do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She frowned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’ve
seen me twist my hair?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“When?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“When you were watching that goofy show.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you serious?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Black women’s hair is nothing to fuck around with.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I like the way it feels.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra kissed his ear and watched him smile. "Under normal circumstances, I don't let anyone touch my hair. Jon excepted, of course. S</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">o let’s get out of the tub then...and you better not screw up.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Twenty minutes later, she had her eyes closed as Victor
attempted to twist her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
sectioned it off for him and moisturized it so he wouldn’t have to deal with that, and she demonstrated how to do it with her front hair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’s just like twisting rope.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Pretty much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
have to keep a steady tug on the hair as you twist, but if you fuck my hair up
I will cut your dick off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to work
tomorrow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tomorrow we’re doing a primate test on the matter
transporter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Primate??”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is this the first test?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yeah.”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Shit, you can’t test with a rat first?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or a fern?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Why are you subjecting an innocent monkey to this thing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if it doesn’t work?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It goes to another world and you guys know
dick all about the science of Dirtysex.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Come again?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I just decided to call the planet Dirtysex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cause I’m a dork, a freak and a Petty Betty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somebody’s going to give it an official name,
but for now it’s Dirtysex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least in
my mind.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor worked steadily, twisting carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Reed is convinced it works and as much as I
loathe the fucker, the math and the science works out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Put a Go-Pro on a rat and test that first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Save the primates for…I don’t know, test
126?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“126?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Aren’t you a scientist, Victor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know good and damn well you run multiple
trials before you even consider primates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I would even say a thousand tests on various lower organisms before you
even think about primate trials.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’ll be fine, Nedra.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He and Reed had a long discussion about the mechanics of the transporter
that Friday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I just wish you’d take into account basic scientific
research and run multiple trials on a Go Pro rat before you stick a monkey in
that thing. You don’t know what it’s going to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He continued to twist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We get to go after the monkey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin’s assured us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra turned to look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "</span>Are you sure you’re a genius?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Are you sure you’re a fucking scientist?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What skill set do you possess to make you qualified to go to
Dirtysex?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When was the last time you did
field work?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When was the last time you
collected samples?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m more qualified to
go than you…and I wouldn’t get within 500 meters of that thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It’ll be fine, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Stop worrying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re just going
to jump over for a quick visit and then come back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we start collecting samples of
Dirtysex.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He liked the name already and
was going to slyly mention it in passing when the team was together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why aren’t astronauts going?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re far more qualified to visit an
unknown world than you are, my handsome, snarky genius lover.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Blow smoke up my ass, why don’t you?” he said, an edge to
his voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s not going to change
anything. We're going."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t like this,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s not right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He finished twisting her hair and kissed the top of her
head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Done, baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked at the mirror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Each twist was perfectly even, better than she was able to pull
off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She smiled and tied her hair up
with a satin scarf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she looked at
Victor with imploring eyes before taking his hands. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t do it, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have</i> to,” he
said, squeezing her hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is the
pinnacle of my research—and Reed’s—and I want the glory of seeing and claiming
Dirtysex as my—our own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re talking
over a decade of my life devoted to this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For years, I lived, breathed, and ate the concept of transporting and the
mere existence of Dirtysex…how can I not see it through?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You told me to see it through!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I know how important it is to you, Victor. But please, please don’t
go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>50 drones, 126 Go Pro rats, 500 ferns, then
12 monkeys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it has been deemed
absolutely safe for you to go and return—remember, that was the problem with
your model—then you go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you come
back to me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">That last part slipped out but Victor didn’t miss it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I will come back to you, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can I stay away from you after this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You won’t even consider it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I have to go, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The studies you’re running, how long have they taken?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My work on reaction paths from excited molecules has been
going on for three years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My other
research in computational biochemistry…five.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’ll see it through.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Or die trying.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then you understand.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, my life isn’t in danger from my research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My work remains in my lab.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“But you understand.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
would not be swayed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part of her did
understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That doesn’t mean I have to
like it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She turned away from him and sat on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor sat next to her and touched a finger
to her chin to turn her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra,
please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please. Don't be mad at me. We're having a good time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She reached over on her nightstand and grabbed her
phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“One for the record books,
then?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra put an arm around Victor and a leg over his, pressed against him and they posed for a selfie.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How does it look?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“We’re both butt-ass naked, but it’s cute. My leg hides your dick, but there's a nipple showing. And I'm wearing my head scarf. No doubt about what's happening after or what just happened.”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Clearly you’re not worried about him seeing it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Jon doesn’t go through my phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I wanted a visual reminder of our
weekend.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“There’ll be more after this, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She kissed his shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Let’s go to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s going on
four in the morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Sleep was long in coming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor spooned behind her, running his lips, moustache and beard over her neck
and shoulders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re still mad at me,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m not.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re tense and you’re not asleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Neither are you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m savoring your feel and smell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tomorrow night I’ll be sleeping alone…and
jacking off to all the sex we had.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Such a waste.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re welcome to come back to my house…or I’ll come here
and then it won’t be a waste.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do you know I had to take the day off work after I left
you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was so damned sore from the Erotic V.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never been penetrated that deep
before and I have a well-endowed lover.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Who clearly can’t fuck the way I can.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Who am I to argue?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She ran her fingers over his arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Tell me about your parents.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not much to tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
mother died when I was 10 in a nasty car accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My father was a doctor and he lost a patient
on the operating table and got hit with a massive malpractice suit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It eventually broke him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We moved to a small town and he got on as a
GP and it was good enough for the town, but never for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never could get over losing the patient or
his practice—which was very successful—and gave a Smith & Wesson a blowjob
while I was in college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately, he
had money tucked away from the insurance from my mother’s accident and some
blue chip stocks he bought when things were going well, and so I was able to
finish college and graduate school without any issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t need a lot of things; I’ve always
been driven by the work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m sorry,” she said, kissing his fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How old were you when he died?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“16,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
finished college at 17, got my first PhD at 23 and my second at 27.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was very careful with the money he left me
and knew how to play the market, so I played.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m doing well financially.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Very well,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor was a millionaire a few times over, but you wouldn’t know it to
look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m sorry that you were
alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I was more alone when my mother died.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I adored her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I merely tolerated my father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
got along, but it was a hit or miss kind of thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least he was smart enough to do right by
me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Good thing too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor kissed her ear, feeling her relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And you, my beautiful naughty girl?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nothing special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
father and brother are both retired Marines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My mother worked as a store manager.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were estranged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was more
like my father than my mother, who absolutely hated that I chose to enlist rather
than go to college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wanted me to
be—get this—a model with a backup career as a science teacher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No shade on teaching in general, but teaching
these days…I’d snatch a knot in a child and lose my job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, I followed my heart and became a Marine like
my father and brother, served 12 years where I got my degree, and then after I
left service, I enrolled in Cal Tech and got my doctorate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m happy with my life choices.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You could have been a model.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra shrugged, feeling sleep come over her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Maybe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t think I could have handled it, though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love my beautiful dark skin and natural
hair, and sometimes that’s problematic for white folks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not a problem for me,” he said, his voice slurring with
sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re stunning.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m glad you think so,” she murmured and soon, they were
both asleep.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/otherside-of-game-4.html" target="_blank">more to come...</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>A/N: Shout out to CinemaSins for the "Dirtysex" reference and the rat/fern commentary. If you haven't watched any of Jeremy & Chris's videos, go to YouTube and get your life.</i></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-89048557315224925182016-04-11T21:06:00.000-07:002016-04-12T08:08:59.171-07:00Otherside of the Game (2)<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/otherside-of-game.html" target="_blank">Previous </a></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">2: "Got to Give it Up" <i>--Marvin Gaye</i></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Later they were on the couch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra called Sherpa’s and absolutely refused
to order anything from Yang’s despite Victor’s protests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She ordered chili-roasted beef, deep fried
potatoes with aioli, a basket of mixed rolls with herb butter, goat cheese bruschetta,
Spanish olives and chocolate strawberry cheesecake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a bottle of merlot to go with the
meal and once the meal was spread over her coffee table and the TV was on, she
watched with satisfaction as her guest devoured every single morsel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Food is good, isn’t it, Victor?” she said, licking her
fingers from a cheesecake cube.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“This is.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You should try eating more than Yang’s,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You limit yourself so much; no wonder why
you’re such an asshole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re missing
out on so much goodness.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">She lay back on the couch and flipped channels until she
found something she could watch: Rod Serling’s </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">Night Gallery</i><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Victor
finished eating and sat back, but Nedra beckoned to him when she saw his
expression.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re sleepy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> That itis has kicked in like a motherfucker. </span>Lie
down with me on the couch, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a
nap.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you going to sleep?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t take
naps, but you can rest your head in my lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m about to get up on some Rod Serling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i>Night Gallery</i> is highly underrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Love me some Serling.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stretched out, his head on her belly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra took a sip of wine and caressed his
hair until he fell asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Twenty
minutes later, Nedra looked down at the beautiful sleeping man who was snoring
softly, his drool drizzling out on her stomach. He was good and sleep, and she loved it. She wondered if he slept this comfortably when he was alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re adorable,” she whispered, continuing to caress his head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">About an hour later, Victor awoke with a start, looking
around and wondering where he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
he recalled and found himself looking at Nedra’s scarred belly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He rolled down her panties and buried his
face in her stomach and impulsively blew bubbles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I see you’re awake,” she said, adjusting her legs while giggling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell me how you got this scar, Nedra,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had
asked her this before and she refused to tell him because at the time it wasn’t
something that was he needed to know.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He was kissing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She continued to scratch his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“In Afghanistan, I took shrapnel to the abdomen during a firefight and it damaged my
uterus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ended up having to have a
hysterectomy because the damage was so bad.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had mentioned last night that she was about to have a period…but
that obviously had been a ploy to keep him from trying to get some pussy, which would
not have worked if he really wanted to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So no children for Jon and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was upset about that for years because I
took it for granted that whenever I wanted to become a mother, I would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was taken from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every now and then when I see a gorgeous
baby, I feel something but Jon is always there to make me feel better.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He continued to stare at her. “I’m sorry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why are you apologizing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You didn’t do anything wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
knew what I signed up for.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor began to kiss her scar in earnest while slipping his
hands under her Ruby Rhod T-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
panties were green and black to match, but Victor didn’t notice as he slipped
them off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to make you feel
better in a different way,” he murmured into the skin of her belly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Make me squirt,” she said, keeping her hand in his
hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Use that nose and that facial
hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be shy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He met her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Challenge accepted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">At some point, both of them hit the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra fell away from him but Victor grabbed
her ankles and dragged her back towards him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She giggled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Carpet burn!!!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He was so focused on meeting the squirt challenge that he
didn’t give even a little bit of a shit about her carpet burn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s love was what unicorns dreamed of and
fairies fantasized about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took his
sweet time, sucking what needed to be sucked, kissing what needed to be kissed,
licking what needed to be licked and using his nose and beard in the manner
she dictated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in time, he was graced
with squirty goodness and was beside himself trying to catch all of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra giggled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“TLC
told you not to go chasing waterfalls…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor crawled up to kiss her awaiting mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Challenge completed. Your every need fulfilled.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra licked her taste from his cheeks as he
wasted negative minutes getting out of the shorts and into her body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"We'll see about that," she said, but the ensuing sex was spectacular.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">When they finished, she was on her stomach and he was on top
of her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m going to have to have my carpet cleaned,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I just did that,” he replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No, you dolt!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean
my actual carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What we’re laying on.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You got a right filthy mind, Victor von Doom.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You bet your fine ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Guess what’s in the bag I brought?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Toys for my dirty bad girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Silk whips, cuffs, a ball gag, satin scarves, ticklers, lube, chains, a
collar, and a latex outfit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra craned her neck to look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You brought all that?”<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the intent
to use some of it, at least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But our
plans changed…and I guess I’ll be using them next time I come by.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Latex outfit?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do
you even know my size?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor lifted enough so she could roll over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“After that night we spent together, do you think
I don’t know your every curve?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know
your exact measurements and how much you weigh…and my dick gets hard every time
I think about you in that outfit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Do you want me to try it on?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The look in his eyes seemed to roll over and beg.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Later, ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll do
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right now I need to get some water
on my carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t want the stain to
set in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">They got up and she immediately set about blotting her
carpet while he watched, amused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she
was on the floor, she told him to put his clothes in the washing machine; that
she might have something for him to wear while they washed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You want me to wear his clothes?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He’s bigger than you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They’ll fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No big deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unless you want to walk around my house butt
ass naked.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I personally have no problem with that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Up to you, sweet thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Naked men don’t bother me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">When she was finished blotting, she went into one of her
spare bedrooms where her computers were set up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor followed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her office was
spacious and she had three computers up and running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He snagged her desk chair before she could
sit down and grabbed her waist to guide her into the chair, into his lap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra turned to look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m about to do a little online shopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can watch TV or go see what’s in the
fridge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I’m about to do is going to
be boring.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor slid one hand up between her breasts and gently
pushed her back to kiss her neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
want to be wherever you are, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned to look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’re really serious about this, aren’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ve never been more serious about anything in my life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Including your work?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">There was a moment of pause and he kissed her neck
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, you’re talking to a man who spent
three years online doing all kinds of fuckery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know shortcuts and websites that will get you what you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I love Amazon, though.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She moved her mouse and pulled up the screen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor put his hand under her shirt and began to rub her
back in slow circles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What do you want
to buy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“My wishlist has about 30 items in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Books, gadgets, random bullshit like
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lately I’ve been obsessed with pop
culture T-shirts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like this Fifth
Element T-shirt.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s really green,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra looked back and smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Super green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love Ruby Rhod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bzzzz</i>!” She waved her hand in the air.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor looked at her selection of T-shirts: a DC lineup,
some Marvels, a Cobra Kai, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Pac-Man 1980 Champion,
Super Mario Brothers, four different Bruce Lee tees, Jem & the Holograms…the
list went on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you going to buy all of these?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been
putting it off for the longest, but I’m going to splurge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s also a Bruce Lee DJ shirt that I’ll give my
left arm for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want anything?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No, he said, enjoying the feel of her naked warm ass in his
naked lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So this is what you do on
Saturdays?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Usually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make it a
point to not leave the house on Saturdays if possible, and to an extent on
Sundays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My weekends are my private
time; ours if Jon is here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hole up
and we cook or order out, watch TV, read, play chess or pool, and of course, have
copious amounts of sex.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Chess?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned to smile at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Wanna play?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a beautiful
black glass board in my game room.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh you must want your ass spanked in other ways?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are we talking shit?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m talking truth.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra wiggled her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Blitz chess, if you’re man enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Minutes later, they were on opposite sides of her
chessboard, engaged in an intense game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The room was silent except for the ticking of her clock and every few
moments, they would lock eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor won the first game and smirked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Definitely man enough.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Luck,” she sneered and he reset the board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she decided to even the playing field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She removed her T-shirt and then they were
both naked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor eyed her breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“That won’t help, baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She beat him twice in a row and cackled like a witch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What was that again?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor gave her a seductive smile; one she liked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your chest is far more interesting than
mine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Excuses, excuses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another game??”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why not?” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The next time he beat her in four moves and she was
irritated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“HOW DID YOU DO THAT?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You tell me all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Genius, baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You ain’t shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
are a monument to ain’t-shitness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t want to play anymore.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Sore loser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
we’re tied,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come on, one more
for the championship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll make it easy
on you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra put her shirt back on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We’ll finish it a later time, what do you say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m hungry now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Want me to cook or do we want to order out again?<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stood up and she glanced at his dick before meeting his
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I feel like deep dish pizza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gio’s, specifically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The works.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No Yang’s?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You say Yang’s isn’t good for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It isn’t, but now that you mention it, Gio’s sounds
amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll make the call.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She disappeared into the living room and Victor
took that moment to sneak into her office and fiddle with her computers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He met her at the door of the game room, cues in hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come on, shit talker,” he teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra clapped her hands to emphasize.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Trust me baby, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> ain’t even what you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My father was a champion pool player and he taught me from the time I
was knee high to a junebug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This right
here is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> what you’re looking for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will beat your ass all over this table.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He gave her a look that heated her from the inside out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I beg to differ, beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You rack, I break.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Let’s make it interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I win, you do what I want…you win, I do what you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two out of three.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re on.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra retrieved the balls and put an extra oomph into
racking them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched her ass
like a hawk, licking his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew
what he wanted her to do: get into that latex outfit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just so he could see her in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had even bought shoes to go with the
getup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had no idea what she would
want, but he would do anything she requested.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Twenty minutes later, Nedra was lying across her pool table,
grinning seductively at her opponent, the cues between her knees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You hustled me,” Victor said, sounding hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She beat his ass like he stole something. Twice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Duh,” Nedra replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I told you this wasn’t what you wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The pizza will be here soon, so let’s get ready for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I’m going to tell you what I want you to
do to me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stared at her, lips parted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“To you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She stood in front of him and caressed his beard and
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You told me you wanted me to give
you the sex I don’t give him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You still
want that or were you talking shit?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Look down at my dick and tell me what you think.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra glanced down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Then let’s go eat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/otherside-of-game-3.html" target="_blank">more to come...</a></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-84481696059579313762016-04-11T07:40:00.001-07:002016-04-11T21:07:30.463-07:00Otherside of the Game<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fandom: The Fantastic Four (2015)</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Pairing: Victor/Nedra<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Rating: NC-17. I'll surprise myself if I can write anything with a rating lower than this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Timeframe: A couple of days before Victor takes his fateful trip to Planet Zero<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Disclaimer: Victor ain’t mine, but Nedra is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Summary: Nedra is determined to keep away from Victor, but he is determined to explore their tenuous connection. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A/N: Sometimes when I play in a fandom, I don't know how to leave it alone. *shrugs* Author problems. Besides, Toby Kebbells is sexy as hell and I'm having a hard time not lusting after him. He's moved up into the Pantheon of Men Who Can Get It.</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">1. "I Like" <i>--Kut Klose</i></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra worked six to 11 four days at week at Baxter. She preferred the later hours, when it was
fewer people and she could work in relative quiet with the four or five members
of her staff who thought and worked the way she did. Nedra was able to get an enormous amount of
work done because she didn’t do much talking and others knew to leave her
alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She was running the mass spec while listening to music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ever since her encounter with Victor, she
found herself listening to Nine Inch Nails’ ‘Closer’ many times throughout the
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had used the lyrics “I want to fuck you
like an animal/I want to feel you from the inside,” and all she could think
about was the line, “You bring me closer to God.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes the weirdest things work their way in and then
become impossible to dislodge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Closer’
was a perfect song for that night they shared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stood up to stretch her back and drop 50 squats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a way to work out and give her mind a
break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was on 42 when she saw a
figure standing outside of her lab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
squinted and removed her earbuds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was Victor, staring at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had found her after all.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stood up and gazed at him, wondering if she should say
something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last time she saw him was
at one of the vending machines and he whispered in her ear that he wanted to
have sex with her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specifically,
he had said that he wanted to lick her pussy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The man was certainly good at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The memories of the many times he worshipped
at her altar made her face burn. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wondered if it showed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He put a hand on the glass and Nedra focused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put her earbuds in and went back to
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would not do to engage him; not
at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was the only one in the lab
that night; if she engaged him…or even worse, let him in, there would be no
doubt in her mind that he would have found a way to do exactly that and she did
not need that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Wanting it, though, was another story.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra did not know how long Victor remained at the glass and
she didn’t want to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t even want
to know how he’d found her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At her
request, Franklin had her name removed from the registers, the walls, and the
reports.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She required a certain level of
anonymity so she could not figure out how he found her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra elected not to think about it and to continue to shove
him into the furthest recesses of her mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was hard because they had established a connection that night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she had to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was an unstable genius and while he
was great at sex, there was nothing more to be had with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing comparable to what she had with her
boyfriend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She spent the next hour at the mass spec, not looking at the
glass; not looking at anything other than the results of the tests she was
running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she finally stopped for
another squat break, he was gone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A month later, she was at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a late Friday night and she was
settled in on her giant couch with a Mystery Science Theater 3000 marathon,
junk food and a bottle of good wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was fresh from a hot bath, hair in two pigtails, and in
her most comfortable sleep attire: a ratty pair of cutoff sweats and her oldest
USMC T-shirt, shredded for sleep comfort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Her doorbell rang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
turned and looked at her door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last
thing she expected was company, so she was suspicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra went for the drawer nearest the door
and pulled out her .380, making sure one was in the chamber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She walked towards the door with the gun
behind her back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Who is it?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
midnight, for Pete’s sake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Housekeeping.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra knew that voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She kept her gun in hand, however, and opened the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stood there, dressed in black jeans, a
hoodie, and a black jacket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
freshly shaven and looked absolutely delicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was holding a dark blue velvet bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She closed her eyes and seventy different emotions crossed her
face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor read every one of them and
smiled before she looked at him again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra brought the gun up and aimed at it him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What do you want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And a hello to you too, Nedra.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He eyed the gun. “That really necessary?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I told you I never wanted to see you again, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“As you well know, I don’t agree with what you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why are you here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s midnight.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I want to see you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You play hard to find and then hard to get at work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s a man like me supposed to do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Stay away!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were
supposed to leave it where we left it!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You</i> left it
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor, does it even matter what I want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You want what I want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You don’t want to admit it; you have a need to keep that secret, but we
both want the same thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra lowered the gun and sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the moment, she hated Franklin for sending
her to recruit Victor in the first place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I told you why that would be a problem.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor adjusted his stance, swinging the velvet bag over his
shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your man’s in Kosovo right
now, engaged in loss verification.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
left a couple of days ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’ll be gone
for the better part of a month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
don’t live with him, and you’re not real big on having outside company other
than your small circle of friends...um, Tracy, Holly, Shar, Reginald and
Rick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And they’re not currently
available because all of you have demanding jobs and shit like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra aimed the .380 at him again and cocked it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How the fuck do you know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But really, she wasn’t surprised.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The man was extremely resourceful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He smiled at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Aren’t you going to invite me in?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What’s in the bag, you demented Santa Claus?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’ll find out when you let me in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m going to need you to remove your boots before you come
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My carpet’s eggshell.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Without batting an eye, he bent down and untied his
boots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took them off and handed them
to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She dropped them on the inside
of her door, groaned, and then stepped back from the door, uncocking the gun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor entered casually, gazing at her with a
look in his eye she immediately recognized as a hunger that had absolutely nothing
to do with food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed the door and
locked it, and put the gun back in the drawer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What am I going to do about you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor turned to face her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I know things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have access to
information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being rich allows that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since you want me to play Where’s Waldo at
work, I decided to cheat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re a stalker,” she said, incredulous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I want you,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Simple as that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re the one
who’s making all this so tedious.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
looked her over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“By the way, you look good.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wore no bra and her nipples poked up like
knobs on a dresser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was even a
little camel toe tease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra walked past him, talking more to herself than him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“All I wanted was to watch MST3K, get buzzed
and fall asleep on the couch.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“MST3K?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll watch it
with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can get buzzed together,
but I don’t think you’ll want to go right to sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor, seriously…what do you want?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you why I wanted you to leave me alone
and you don’t care about what I want at all, do you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You said, and I quote, ‘I’d give you the time you require;
I’d do every dirty, nasty thing you like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’d be your bad girl and proud to be so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’d have your own place in the Promised Land and I’d make sure Jon
wouldn’t have access to it.’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra sat on her couch and glanced at the screen to see Joel
and the ‘Bots crack-wising over some shit movie and gulped her wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You said that, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I don’t need to tell you the fantasies I
had after you said it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought of silk
whips, candle wax, ball gags, handcuffs, lubricant and latex and you tied to my bed, us
fucking like we were trying to make babies…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You took it out of context!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No I didn’t.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
dropped the bag on the floor and then jumped the couch like a hurdle and sat beside
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“They’re your words and I believed
you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You know good and fucking well I was talking about why WE
couldn’t have anything! You asked me to describe what would go wrong if I
allowed you into my life!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Like it or not, you did just that when you came a-knocking
on my door, beautiful.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took her wine
from her hand and sipped it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good
stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s drink.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gulped the rest and poured more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had chips, dip, cookies and finger
sandwiches laid out for snacking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
grabbed one of the latter and popped it into his mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra watched him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor,
you don’t know how to stay in your lane.” Clearly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“The lane you gave me was this: Be my bad girl and enact
every dirty, nasty, filthy thing that comes to either of our minds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want that so bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t stop thinking about you and how real
you are to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So yeah, maybe I’m a tad
bit mad, but I’m that because of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m addicted to what you are, who you are and that magical place between
your legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re a goddamn fool if you
think I’m giving that up so easily.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra closed her eyes and took back her wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And what about Jon?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What about him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
keep telling you he has nothing to do with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What will you do when he comes back?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor rolled his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What will <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I dance to the tune you play, or have you
forgotten that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stood up and glanced longingly at her giant-screen
TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crow was saying something silly and
she pouted that she missed the reference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She turned off the television set.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You won’t leave, will you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I drove an hour across town for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, I’m not leaving.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I should shoot you in the dick and call the police, tell
‘em you trespassed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Now why would you want to damage a thing you like,
something that pleasures you in a way your man’s can’t?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“God, you’re a fucktard.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor ate a potato chip and changed tactics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ll do whatever you want, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In bed, that is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not leaving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want your kisses; your hands and your mouth
on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to take a shower with you
and have you bathe me and I you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want
all that sexy stuff we did when we weren’t having sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do it with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>, don’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be
ridiculous.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Treat me like I’m him, then.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra cocked her head and side-eyed him so hard she felt a
twinge in her neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve had my bath
for tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too late, darling.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She grabbed the bottle of wine and her glass
and walked towards her bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
so difficult and his level of assholism was hard to deal with at times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But he wasn’t wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She enjoyed all the fucking they did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She enjoyed their diabolical banter and the way
he manhandled her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was torn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">But she knew he’d follow her and couldn’t help but
smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You can’t be anywhere near me
when Jon is here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when I say here, I
mean in the city.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned on the lights in her bedroom, which was far nicer
than Victor’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a huge bathroom
with a deep garden tub with Jacuzzi jets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And after her encounter at Victor’s, Jon bought her a rainfall showerhead…after
she mentioned how much she’d like to have one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nice place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Little
too much for my taste, but you are a woman.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra faced him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m
a woman you want bad enough to do stupid things for.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stared at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’re right about that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So, what do we do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Or maybe should I ask, have you taken a bath?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cause you ain’t getting your dirty ass in my
bed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A clean big
dick is required to enter the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That part’s taken care of.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Again, what do you want to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve had a long day and I just want to
relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t feel like fucking.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she thought she’d throw a wrench in his
plans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“My period’s about to start.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor looked at her as if she were merely commenting on the
weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra sighed and turned on the
TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m going to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess you’re welcome to join me, since your
dumb ass ain’t leaving.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I thought we were going to snack in front of the TV and get
drunk off that fabulous vintage.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Go get the food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have the
wine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor disappeared and Nedra pulled a short table away from
the window and by the bed so he could put the snacks on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She set the bottle of wine and the glass down
and it took moments for Victor to return with the snacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She directed him where to put the food.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra removed the elastics that held her pigtails in place
and fluffed her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She started to
twist it but he said, “Don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leave it
free.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
won’t be able to comb it tomorrow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Please.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra’s eyes widened as she looked at the man across the
room who was removing his jacket and hoodie as if he belonged in her
bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t recall ever hearing
him say that word before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Okay then.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She got in bed and flicked to the channel running the MST3K
marathon and poured more wine in her glass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fuck it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was going to keep to
her master plan and Victor was going to adjust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She didn’t watch him undress, but when he pulled back the covers, she
saw that he was totally starkers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
not limp.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Where’s your T-shirt and boxers, or whatever the fuck you
wear to bed?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“This is it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I sleep
in the nude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Problem?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra turned her attention back to the television set and
tried to focus on the show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She grabbed
the plate of food and offered some to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He took another sandwich and settled in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra tried to ignore his washboard abs and hard dick and closed her
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she heard the theme song to
MST3K.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A new episode was starting and
she ran down the Robot Roll Call like the diehard fan she was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Cambot, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hey</i>, Gypsy,
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hey</i>, Tom Servo, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hey</i>, Croooooow!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor watched her and couldn’t help but grin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You like this show?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hell yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got into
it back in college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, we got a captive
janitor and two wisecracking sarcastic robots riffing the hell out of Z-grade
shit movies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s not to love?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crow’s my favorite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now are you going to watch or are you going
to get on my nerves?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Pass that wine,” he said, and she did.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A little while later, Victor was laying on his side, his
head perched in one hand, watching Nedra laugh her ass off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was definitely buzzing, but he wasn’t
even remotely close to tipsy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned
and grinned at him and quoted a line from the episode, “Bitch, don’t you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ever</i> outdress me!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she erupted into tipsy giggles and fell
back into the myriad of pillows on her bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Lightweight,” Victor said, but he was enjoying watching her
laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a geek and it was
adorable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a moment he was going
to cherish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You better not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">EVER</i>
outdress me, Victor!” she cackled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
she turned and smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“See why I
like this show?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s got great lines!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Honestly, I like watching you watch it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re a dork.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She stared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Nerd, thank you very much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
don’t you have something to geek out to, Mr. Mensa?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life’s much better when you can geek the hell
out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He chuckled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not
crappy shows like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a gamer.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra punched him in the arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This show is genius; you just don’t have any
taste!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No wonder your life sucks.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She giggled again, good and fuzzy from the
wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her tolerance was shit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It took her a moment to realize Victor wasn’t laughing with
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Was that an insult?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If so, I didn’t mean to—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra felt his hand underneath her shirt, moving in slow
circles. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had large hands and they
were warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You said you wouldn’t—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">His voice was low.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra,
I’ll die if I don’t kiss you,” he said, rolling her on top of him and cradling
her cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ll lose what sanity I
have left if I don’t taste your lips right now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The laughter had gone clean out of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hands were on her cheeks, then in her
hair…and then she was kissing him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor devoured her mouth, wrapping his arms around her body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It took moments for Nedra to lose herself as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor craved her kisses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She recalled how foreign it had been to him
when she first did it and it took him no time at all to want and expect it from
her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In between kisses, he moaned, “You feel so good, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I would drive all night for this…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She broke the kiss and looked into his rich brown eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, what’s really going on?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I need this,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I need you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he kissed her
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra allowed it to go one
because it was very pleasant and very satisfying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor rolled so that she was underneath him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He looked into her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I want you to make love to me,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was something in his voice, something
just shy of desperation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was confused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Months had passed since that night and while she knew they were steadily
working on the matter transporter, Victor didn’t spend all his time there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Haven’t you met a girl yet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you there were plenty of women at
Baxter who would throw a fuck into you if you so much as winked at them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quite sure there are plenty of women on the
street who would throw so much pussy at you you’d need a catcher’s mitt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re an asshole, but you're not unappealing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He claimed her mouth again while rubbing her spread
thighs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was grateful her cutoff
shorts were of the snug variety; he’d have to pull them completely off if he
expected a trip to the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Plus condoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I don’t want them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
want you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make love to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Show me how it is between you and him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">After receiving another kiss, she gazed at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re <i>not</i> him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There has to be a connection...and…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t you think we have one of our own?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She couldn’t deny it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was a pull between them; something he was more inclined to act on
than she was…but it was there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“We’re connected,” he said, smoothing her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Use that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Show me how to please you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Show
me how to love you,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was trying not to gape at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had actually said something significant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Tonight?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Whenever you want to, but I won’t leave until you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right now I’m satisfied with holding you and
kissing you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra felt him pressed right up in her crotch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are you sure?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re hard.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Blessedly so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It doesn’t matter, “ he said, kissing her cheeks and
forehead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s a state of being when
I’m around you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Turn on your side,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he did, she pressed right up against him
and asked him to put his hand under her shirt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Play with my breasts,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Softly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While he
moved his hands slowly between her tits, she reached down and curled her
fingers around his erection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Do we need oil?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” he breathed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“It won’t take long…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stroked him and brought his head closer so that she
could kiss him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rumble in his throat
was sexy as hell and she brought one of her legs up over his hips and to be
surrounded in her warmth was enough to bring him to climax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His breathing roughened and he sighed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Better?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You always get me off,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She kissed his nose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’ll be right back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go to
sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra washed her hands and entered the bedroom to see that
Victor was indeed, asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put away
the food and straightened up before getting back into bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She curled next to him and felt a warm sense
of peace when he put an arm around her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The next morning, Victor woke up alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He scratched his head in confusion but then
took a deep breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Smells were coming
from the kitchen and his eyes widened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He got up and went to take a leak and wash his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he pulled on his shorts and wandered
into Nedra’s kitchen to see her…cooking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She was cooking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hungry?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stared at her as if he’d been hit over the head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t remember the last time he’d had a
home cooked meal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Sit down at the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pancakes, sausage, eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Juice is
on the table, but you’re serving yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A maid I’m not.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She brought out a platter of hot food and set it in the
center of the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I figured you
needed something with more substance than Yang’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not the best diet, all that MSG.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eat,” she prodded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra sat next to him and speared three pancakes and some
sausage and eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She spared Victor a
glance before tearing into her food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
took him a moment to take in everything that was happening and then he began to
eat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I know what you want, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll give it to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need it and I want you to have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who knows, right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor spoke around a mouthful of pancakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is good.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Calories always are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Eat until you’re full, and then you’ll help me clean the kitchen.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor devoured most of the food and covered his mouth when
he uttered a belch like a gunshot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
grinned at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good, wasn’t it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s nice,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He helped her clear the table and instead of cleaning the
kitchen, she took him by the hand and led him back to the bedroom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Where are we going?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Let’s take a bath.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra began running water in her enormous tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stood behind her, rubbing her
ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This looks like a swimming pool.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned and gave him a sultry glance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I like things deep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor gripped her ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were both thinking of the Erotic V.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She grabbed a bottle of bubble bath and dumped a good third
of the bottle in and soon the tub was filled with bubbles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra went to the vanity and used a headband
to pull her hair back so that it wouldn’t get wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, looking at Victor, she removed her
clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stared at her longingly,
unable to find the right words to express what he was feeling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra turned the water off and slipped into the tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The water may be a bit too warm for you, but you’re man enough, right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor came out of his shorts and got in, wincing, but not
backing down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra put her legs on top
of his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Usually when I do this, I do it in the evenings and light
candles and play music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like I did last
night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But now we got morning light and
we don’t need music because we should talk, don’t you think?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor relaxed, leaning back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You said you knew what I wanted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Correct me if I’m wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re working on two levels here: the sex and then the intimacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sex is what you tell yourself to justify
why you’re stalking me, but the intimacy is the real reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You alluded to it last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I think is that your personality is so
loud and so obnoxious that it dominates everything and drowns out the quiet
things you need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are a man who
hasn’t had any care in years and the walls you’ve built keep people away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But you need to practice self-care, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not doing hardens you and makes you an asshole who's hard to like.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So what you mean is that I need to take care of myself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“When I came to your house, you were holed up in that shitty
ass dump, all contact cut off, eating garbage from a fast food restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You hadn’t bothered to keep yourself together
and your only outlet was the Internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Human contact is important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re no dummy; you know this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You responded to me in more ways than one.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re not wrong,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Take the sex out of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What did you like about that night?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“The kissing and the way you took care of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You cut my hair and you gave me a bath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember when we were in bed, you rubbed
your legs over mine and touched me with your feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember us kissing and laughing and I
can’t remember what it was about, but we did.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra took that moment to run her foot up his chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "I remember us talking about Dr. Allen's bullshit comb-over."</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: large;">Victor grinned. "I hate that son-of-a-bitch and no one will tell me he isn't bald under that hairhat."</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Massage my foot,” she said, tickling his pec with her big toe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He took her foot in his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m not
sure I know what to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You don’t have to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You dance to the tune I play, correct?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You asked me for something and I’m showing you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do as I say, follow my lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be afraid.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“All right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra removed her foot and moved away from her side of the
tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She crawled towards Victor and got
in his lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She smoothed his hair and
began to caress his face, sliding her fingers over his forehead, lips and
cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She kissed his nose, eyelids and
the corners of his mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mmmmn,” he moaned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stroked his ears and was surprised to see him
laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She giggled in return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sensitive ears, eh?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stared at her, a relaxed smile on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra continued to finger his earlobes and
make him grin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh, I’m going to enjoy finding your secret spots,” she
said, leaning forward to kiss him just after telling him to rub her ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">After a few moments, she put her hands on his shoulder and
arched her back, giving him access to her breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor latched on to one of her rock-hard
nipples as she gyrated her hips against his groin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Suck slowly,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“And there’s more to a breast than just the nipple…and you don’t always
have to suck. You can kiss and you've got teeth.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She continued massaging
his ears, closing her eyes in delight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor held on to her ass, mouth full of breast, eyes closed
as he was drawn into his secret, secret place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra continued to instruct him in dulcet tones as she stroked his
beard, scratching gently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Between that
and her gyrations, it did not take long for him to rise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You ever had sex in the water before?” she asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He opened his eyes and looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“If I have, I don’t recall.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra put her hand in the water and adjusted so that she
could slide down and ride him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck</i>,” Victor
murmured as he filled her up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Feels good, doesn’t it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love having sex in the tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Run
your hands up my back; touch me like you mean it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Been a long time since you’ve visited the
Promised Land.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ve missed this place,” he moaned, moving his hips<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor closed his eyes again but Nedra kissed his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Eyes open, sweet thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the secrets to what you want is in the
eyes, so look at me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stared at her and Nedra stared back as she rode him,
hands curled into his shoulders, dropping kiss after kiss on his nose and
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were no words he could find
in his gifted brain to describe what was taking place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All he could say was her name, over and over
in spurts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was right there in his
secret place with him…and it was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">gooooood</i>….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/otherside-of-game-2.html" target="_blank">more to come...</a></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-71115167670064476102016-04-08T11:03:00.000-07:002016-04-08T11:03:34.670-07:00Playing Pool With Planets (3)<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/playing-pool-with-planets-2.html" target="_blank">Previous</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">III: A Tad Bit Mad</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A couple of hours later, Victor was awake and occupied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was fast asleep next to him and when he
woke to relieve himself, he saw the perfect opportunity to entertain himself
without her getting in his way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s
perfect titties were saluting him and those splendid nipples were all the way
erect. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He wanted to lick her all over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He trembled thinking about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor caught a nipple in between his teeth and pulled on it
gently before absorbing it into the warm cavern of his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He cupped his hand around the other one and
thumbed the nipple before getting deeper into the act.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra moaned and arched her back, still in the throes of
sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He moved to the other breast and blew on the nipple and
watched it spring to life before licking it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He sucked softly at first, but then applied a little more pressure as
Nedra shifted again, squeezing her thighs together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mmmmn,” she moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Harder.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Who was he to deny a lady’s request?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor got greedy then, pushing her breasts
together and alternatingly sucking them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were exquisite, divine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then, keeping a breast in either hand, he ran his beard down her belly
and stuck his tongue in her navel, swirling it around and around before kissing
it and licking the scar next to it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She was getting aroused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He could smell it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nedra, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">fuck</i>…!” he
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even her scent drove him nuts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor saw where her thighs were squeezed tight and he
carefully parted them, receiving the full blast of her fragrance and he found
himself swallowing and wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He smelled her, closing his eyes, savoring
the scent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of this, all of her, all
of this night was a giant deposit in the spank bank…but if he had anything to
say about it, it would not be the only one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He leaned forward and kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not satisfied with the access, he bent one of
her legs and spread her wider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once
again, her clitoris popped out from between her lips and he smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Hello, gorgeous.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Then he couldn’t help himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tasted like cherries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed his eyes and buried his face
between her thighs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tasted so good,
so sweet, so <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">addicting</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The vixen had been right after all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra moaned again, her eyes rolling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jon,” she whispered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor paused, hearing the name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though he was perfectly aware of the
reality of this thing, he did not like hearing another man’s name on Nedra’s
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This moment in time belonged to
him and him alone and he wasn’t about to share the few hours that were left
with anybody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He resumed the task with a
passionate vengeance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another man’s name
on her lips pushed him beyond just a tad bit mad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra woke up quick, on the verge of a powerful orgasm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bedsheets were knotted in her fists, a
moan on her lips, and her hips were bucking in time to Victor’s superlative
head game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh shit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor! <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Goddamn</i> it!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Come all over my face, Marine,” he demanded. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Wh-what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You heard me, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Squirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baptize me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Me</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor von Motherfucking Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s an order, Marine.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh would you stop calling me <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">th—aiyeeeeeeeeeeee</i>!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
threw her head back and groaned as he slurped—<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">slurped</i>—up her goodness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
legs trembled and she fell back on the bed as he greedily ate her up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She wasn’t ready when he widened her thighs and slipped
inside of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was rock hard and she
was slippery wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He leaned close to her
ear and said, “Your pussy curves to my dick; have you realized that yet?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thrusted, hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you feel that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How well we fit together?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a hand in a glove.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another thrust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you feel <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>, Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stared at him, her scent all over him, hands splayed
on the mattress because he was fucking her and she needed to keep her balance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was commanding her, saying things that
hadn’t quite made it through the sleep-fog filter in her brain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gripped one of her thighs, bringing up her
leg, making the fit tighter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Uhhmm</i>,” she
responded, as that was all she could do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You said men get addicted to you, to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>, and you weren’t lying, were you? I want this every day; I
have to have it and you want me to have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do you feel that?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another
thrust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do you feel it, Marine?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The way I fit inside of you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You may have to be fucked every day, but you don’t get fucked like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> every day…but I bet you want
to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">feel</i> that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor!” she moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Victor, what the—!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re goddamned right,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed her hands and pushed her down into
the mattress and fucked her senseless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra wasn’t sure where this particular level of intensity came from;
they’d both been asleep less than an hour ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He brought her hands up and locked her wrists together with
one hand. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he grabbed her thigh
again and just went sort of…slightly off kilter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra met him thrust for thrust, bucking her
hips in time to his movements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dear God,
had she ever been this wet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had she ever
been handled like this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What sent Victor
into this maddening, delicious bout of sex??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Say my name, Marine!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra’s heat was up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You say mine first!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
struggling trying to get her hands free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was far stronger than he looked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>“You say my motherfucking name!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re the one lost in the Promised Land, so you tell me who it belongs
to!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nedra,” he moaned, and burst within her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor collapsed on top of her and she took
his weight, putting her arms around his neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some time later, she decided to take a shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He lay in bed, watching her as she ran the
shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As if they were finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He snorted.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra stepped in and stood under the head, closing her
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was going to be sore as hell
for the next couple of days and Jon was going to be suspicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed her eyes and thought about how to
handle it when she was suddenly not alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He had a small bottle of blue-green liquid in his
hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thought I’d return the favor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What favor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I want to bathe you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The idea had occurred to him moments after she got in the shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He held up the bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I swiped this from a five-star Marriott some
years back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s still good, I hope.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra’s hair was soaked with water and it hung in her
face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She moved it back like
curtains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“If you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re full of surprises, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who’d have thunk it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“There’s a lot people don’t know about me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Because you don’t let them.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned her back to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Have at it, then.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In moments, she was covered in a mountain of blue-green
lather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor remained mostly quiet as
he gave Nedra’s body the attention she’d given his yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She leaned back into him, closing her eyes as
his hands moved over her body slowly, deliriously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mmmn,” she groaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He spent an inordinate amount of time caressing her breasts and playing
with her nipples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s hands covered
his and all of her previous thoughts swirled away just like water down the
drain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had her turn in slow circles
as he soaped her body, kneeling to lather her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put her foot on his knee and caressed her
foot, calf and thigh, focused solely on the task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That part done, he turned her to face him
while he slid his soapy hands over her ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Did you know you were an ass man before yesterday?” she
asked?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I didn’t know a lot of things about my preferences before
yesterday.” He could have bathed her for the rest of the day and not cared about anything else. It was blissful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Fair enough,” she said, moving away from him to rinse off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pulled him towards her so he could do the
same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra turned off the shower and
wrung out her hair with her bare hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When she was finished, Victor turned her and lifted her by her waist. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With what seemed like either no effort or
preternatural strength, he lifted Nedra up and pressed her against the wall,
making sure her legs were over his shoulders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What the hell…” she squeaked, losing it at his display of
strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God, but she loved strong men
and Victor had proven to be a lot stronger than she thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor, what are you doing?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What does it look like, Nedra?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to eat you out again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time is running out and I still want you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How can you hold me like this?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her vagina was literally in his face and she
sat on his shoulders, her back against the tiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How can you keep your <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bal—ohhh</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra cradled his head, closing her eyes as he took his time
pleasuring her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon had never ever
lifted her like this and she had to wipe the memory of it from her brain when
it was over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t stop the
noises she was making and the intensity of his kisses made her knees quiver and
her hands shake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor’s own enjoyment
was muffled, as if he had shoved his face in as far as it could go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra couldn’t help grinding against him and
she wasn’t sure if either of them could keep their balance once she came.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s running down my chin,” he moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Damn it, woman…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra felt herself go; felt it rumble from deep within
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her stomach began to hurt and she
couldn’t stop the tremors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor held
her fast and strong, unwavering in his desire to suck up as much as he could
and Nedra’s climax was violent in its intensity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She was still shaking when Victor laid her on the bed and
pulled the covers over her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What did you do to me?” she asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were actual tears in her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He lay beside her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What I wanted to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I like
doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the way you taste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love eating you out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you this already.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I enjoyed that enough to come without you
even touching me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Let’s talk, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Woman to man, lover to lover.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“We’re not lovers, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a job—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I know, I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin sent you to get me by any means necessary and the means you
chose to get me were…maybe not something he would be proud of, but it was
effective as fuck, pun intended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
going back to Baxter and see what this kid’s done that’s supposed to be a game
changer.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He’s found another planet, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His transporter goes to another world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What you were trying to do, he did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know exactly what he did that was so
different, but you need to see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
have to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah, later for all that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want to talk about us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we
are lovers, whether you like it or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We’re compatible; it’s fire between us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I feel it and I know you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
world may be a shitty place that deserves to die, but there are some things
that are worth keeping, and this between us is worth it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s real.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Realer than anything I've experienced in a long time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Victor, it isn’t as real as you’d like to think.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"So all this fucking we've been doing is what...imaginary? </span><span style="font-size: large;">You keep saying I’m going to forget about you once I’m back
at work; that I’ll be so tied up in my research and the matter transporter that
you’ll just vanish from my memory.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Are
you fucking serious?</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">You must be out of
your mind if you think that.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">You’re
using it as an excuse and you need to own up to that shit right the hell now.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra examined her fingernails and sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You want honesty?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I deserve it, don’t you think?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you kiss me, I lose my senses. When you
press that fierce body against mine, I lose the ability to be rational.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not myself when I’m with you and I like
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So yeah, tell the truth.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Her legs had stopped trembling enough and she pulled them up
and locked her hands underneath her knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She stared at her bright red toenails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Did he deserve it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Earlier, when I couldn’t sleep, I was thinking about
this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re right; this is good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s been some of the best sex I’ve had in a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So good that it gives me pause.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Elaborate.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“As you well know, I have a man in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve been together for years and what we
have is good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s nothing like you;
he’s a former Marine and we served together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He good in bed?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
wouldn’t be together if he wasn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
now there’s an unknown variable in the mix.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That would be me, I suppose.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re a variable in every sense of the word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will not deny how good it’s been between us
and I won’t deny that I wish it could continue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But it can’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why not?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra side-eyed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’d be okay with being my side piece? You’d be good as my jump
off?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My second string?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow I think not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow, I think you will have a serious
problem not being number one in my life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re right on all counts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hell no I wouldn’t like that shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t like to share.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I damn sure
wouldn’t share you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“See the problem?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Your man is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your</i>
problem, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t have a thing to do with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And that’s why I never want to see you again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll insert yourself into parts of my life
where you don’t belong and you’ll cause problems between Jon and me and I can’t
have that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re acting like a punk right now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I want
to preserve what I have with him instead of risking it for hot nasty sex with you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All you <i>can</i> give me is hot nasty sex and that
ain't enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What makes you think that’s all I can give you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, what else can you offer?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stared at her, thinking of Sue; of the plans he’d had
for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They all seemed so trivial now,
paper-thin, weak…the delusions of another man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra called him a Simple Simon because he
saw Sue as wife material...the kind of wife who wouldn't challenge him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">What could he offer a woman like Nedra?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had plenty of money, but Nedra wouldn’t be
impressed by that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She clearly had her
own ends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell me about what he does for you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“We have a history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We complement each other, balance one another, and comfort one another
when the memories of our time in the Corps become too much for either of us to
bear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He makes me laugh; he’s a goofy
nerd who seeks to rebuild what our government sent him to destroy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He protects my heart and makes me feel
safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never, ever worry about him when
he’s away from me because I trust him completely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon is a man who sees through my faults and
my ugly ways and loves me regardless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That is what he does for me. You don't stand a chance by comparison. Sorry, but it's the truth.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor was quiet, thoughtful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Believe me, Victor, I thought about ways I could have you
and maintain my relationship with Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was why I tossed and turned earlier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But all I saw was you demanding more of me and my time, getting in the
way of Jon and me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you wife material, Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want to
get married.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not that kind of
girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s why things are so good
between Jon and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It works for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You wouldn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Tell me just what you think I’d do?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Show up when it’s time for me to be with my man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d give you the time you require; I’d do
every dirty, nasty thing you like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d
be your bad girl and proud to be so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’d have your own place in the Promised Land and I’d make sure Jon
wouldn’t have access to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But that
wouldn’t be enough for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’d get
jealous of the time I spend with Jon…which is more time than I would spend with
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you wouldn’t like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor recalled his reaction to hearing her say her
boyfriend’s name while he was giving her head and his subsequent response.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No I wouldn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I don’t give a shit about your man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m talking about you and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
gave me something that I liked and didn’t even know I needed and I’m simply not
willing to let it go.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was thinking
about her kisses and the way she’d taken care of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m
going to leave now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin will be
waiting for you tomorrow morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have
fun with your project and give Reed a chance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Go to that other planet and find out what it can do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re a fucking genius and you put more than
a decade of your life into this thing, so you need to see it through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I really, really never want to see you
again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How serious is it with…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I told you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love
him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It may not have seemed like it to you, but he adores me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, if the love is strong, then he won’t mind a little
competition.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You aren’t serious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I was serious when I asked you to fuck…and you see how that
turned out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m no less serious
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have no intention of forgetting
about you or letting you forget about me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And forget about hiding out at Baxter, because I will search that place
top to bottom with high beams looking for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are always possibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re just upset because you can’t control
me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Exactly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t
know how to stay in your lane.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
got up and went to get her clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m
out, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m tired, my hair’s a
mess, and I want to sit in my tub and soak for two hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then I’m going to sleep for 12
hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I, too, must go back to
work.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned back and gave him that
same sultry ‘come hither’ smile that got his attention earlier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But I had a damn good time. You <i>are</i> a gifted, talented bastard and God bless you for it."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She went into the bathroom and stared at her wild mass of
curls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had liked having his hands in
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra sighed and hunted for the
elastic that held her bun in place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
parted her hair into two sections, tied the elastic around one and cornrowed
the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she repeated the act
with the rest of her hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She slipped
the elastic around her wrist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she
put back on her bra and T-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
she went for her panties, Victor was there to stop her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“If you’re really leaving, then let me give you a goodbye
present.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra side-eyed him and smirked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nah, I think I’m okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No, I’m serious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you really want this to be the end, and you’re serious about never seeing me
again, then the least you can do is let me give you a proper goodbye.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Aren’t you tired?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ve got three years to make up for.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra yawned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Seems
to me like you did and then some.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor took her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Come on, Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First to
fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The few, the proud…all that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t tell me you’re scared.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra smiled and let him lead her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is it, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then we part ways and you go back to work
and so will I.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“And never see each other again,” he said, rolling his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I mean that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I mean this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
picked her up and sat her on the edge of the dresser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a wicked, wicked grin, he grabbed her
bare ankles and put them on his shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra stared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
extremely flexible, so when he came closer, she braced herself against the
dresser.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What is this?” she asked as he adjusted her legs on his
shoulders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Something we’re both going to enjoy…and make it damned hard
for you to forget about me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When her
legs were almost at 90 degrees, Victor slipped inside of her and she
gasped at the insanely tight fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, with that same
preternatural strength, he put his arms around her and lifted her off the
dresser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s heart was already
racing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Put your arms around my neck and brace yourself, baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">After a few seconds, all that could be heard were screams of
ecstasy and anyone listening wouldn’t be able to tell if they were female or
male.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor was annoyed with Reed Richards from day one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was pleased to see Sue, but she wasn’t as
alluring as he remembered. In fact, after the liveliness of Nedra, Sue seemed boring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reed’s schematics of
the matter transporter were elementary, rudimentary…basically the scribblings
of a child, but the machine worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra had been right about one thing; he was glad to be back at work,
using his considerable mind for what it was meant to be used for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was easy for him, but Reed was such an
arrogant prick…and then Franklin had the nerve to bring in his hothead asshole
son Johnny to help with the fabrication.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">When he took his breaks, he walked the many floors of the
Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was methodical; eliminating
any floor that didn’t focus on chemistry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had no idea of the work she did and it would have been too much to
simply ask Franklin or anyone else who might know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He checked the directories, but her name
wasn’t listed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That didn’t make any
sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He asked the front desk
receptionist and she had no knowledge of Nedra Nix or anything of the sort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A month after his return to Baxter, Victor was seriously
considering grabbing a flashlight to search every nook and cranny of that
building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was even considering asking
Franklin where she was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He no longer
gave a shit about what Franklin would think; all he wanted was a glimpse of
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their last night together was a
series of memories he didn’t want to forget.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had made several withdrawals from the spank bank as a result.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">One particularly annoying day, he started walking down the
corridor towards the vending machines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He needed coffee and he wanted some noodles and dumplings from
Yang’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he looked up, he saw a
curvy beauty in a black dress and heels standing at the Coke machine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor inhaled sharply and felt a twinge in
his groin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He started walking towards the vending
machines in earnest to catch her before she left.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She looked elegant, regal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her hair was styled becomingly on top of her head and she wore diamonds
in her ears and at her throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A quick
glance at the absence of diamonds on her left hand was enough to note that her
wack-ass boyfriend hadn’t wifed her up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He snorted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If Nedra
was his woman, there was no way she would have roamed freely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simple Simon he might be in some respects,
but there were some things that made sense even to the simplest of Simons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She was standing at the machine, clearly trying to decide
what to select.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dress she wore clung
and that ass…oh, that magnificent ass! She needed to be worshipped.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stopped about two feet from her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra turned and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She blinked rapidly but calmed herself
quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hello Nedra,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How’s it going?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“As expected.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The curve
of her lips reminded him how good they felt on his dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You don’t like Reed, do you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He’s a jerk.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He’s not so bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re just used to being the genius in residence and you can’t handle
anyone stealing even a little bit of your shine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You look amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Why so snazzy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Presentation to a bunch of bigwigs.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“For money?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That, and access.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Once that transporter is up and running, my squadron of bad-ass chemists
will be analyzing the samples you bring back.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Fine as you are, you’ll get it before you even open your
mouth." He paused. "Nedra, nothing’s changed for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned her attention to the Coke machine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fanta, I think.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She inserted some money and pushed the
button, waiting impatiently for the drink to drop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She remembered that last hour at Victor’s
apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His proper goodbye was a
position out of the Kama Sutra; the Erotic V, and instead of using the dresser
to support her weight, he held her in his arms and the sex was indescribable;
beyond the usual good, the usual hot…his penetration of her was so mind-bogglingly
deep that both of them were left with aftershocks after climax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They couldn’t even make it to the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she was finally able to calm down enough to be able to walk, Nedra all
but ran away from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had watched
her go, determined that he would see her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>‘No’ was not a word Victor was used to hearing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra fiddled with her fingers, actually nervous that he was
so close by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How had he found her??<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her body was responding to his nearness and
she was trying to remain cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a
presentation in an hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stepped close to her, close enough to whisper in her
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s nobody around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to get down on my knees and lick your
pussy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra swallowed hard and immediately walked away from him without
getting her soft drink. Victor watched her go, smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>fin</i></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-84293329528919626612016-04-07T23:34:00.000-07:002016-04-08T11:05:54.288-07:00Playing Pool WIth Planets (2)<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/playing-pool-with-planets.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Previous</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">II: Kiss Me Once, Kiss Me Twice</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra held the towel around her body and stared, quite
helpless as Victor took a couple of long strides back into the bathroom and
scooped her up. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra said not a word;
she was completely beside herself with the fact that he was much stronger than
he looked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being carried was a
primordial weakness for her, as it was something that did not happen often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor carried her to the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stared at him and wondered how far this
thing was going to go.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He tossed her on the bed like a sack of potatoes and she
took a moment to look in the mirror over the dresser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’ve utterly ruined my hair.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Your hair’s the least of my concern,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He crawled over her and gently pushed her
head into what were clearly goosedown pillows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In fact, the whole bed was extremely comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra closed her eyes and sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man had some sort of taste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She opened her eyes to find him staring at
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t in him to give certain
kinds of compliments, but he was staring down at probably the most beautiful
woman he’d been with in years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More
beautiful than Sue even, and Sue was his benchmark.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra lifted her fingers and ran them over his lips and
beard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“What are you doing?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I want to kiss you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Victor looked at her incredulously, like he’d never heard
those words before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You want to do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">what</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra continued to run a damp finger over his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to kiss you, Victor von Doom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we’re being honest—and it seems you are—I
wanted to do that in the shower, but then you pulled that fucking stunt and…it
slipped my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I enjoy kissing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t do it with every guy I’m with, but
then not every guy has a mouth like yours…and right now it belongs to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So give me what I want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He turned into a weak mass of male as she rolled him over
and climbed atop him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She grabbed his
hands and put them on her ass before caressing his beard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tenderly, she kissed him and it was clear it
was an experience he had not had for some time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A groan rumbled up from deep within his gut and he gripped her ass so
hard that she gasped sharply before resuming the kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her tongue danced over his, over his teeth
and on the inside of his lips before pulling back and leaving a painful nip on
his lower lip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Goddamn, Marine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“If you call me that again, your dick won’t get anywhere
near my pussy, which is swelling with anticipation…so don’t fuck this up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pun intended.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Kiss me again, Nedra.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He liked it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She was happy to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then he rolled so that he was on top, between her spread legs and he had
himself in hand, running the tip of his dick against her clitoris.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra moaned and bucked her hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t keep me waiting,” she said between kisses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He didn’t and upon entrance, both of them sagged against each
other at the feel of him comfortably and fully sheathed within her body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Nedra,” he said, in a rough whisper, ”I’m of a mind to get
your boyfriend out of the way.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Dream on,” she said, and began to move her hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You wanted a fuck, so let’s have at it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He looked at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Kiss me again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After an awkward start, where they couldn’t get on the same
rhythm, Nedra took control, locked her legs around his ass and flipped
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She adjusted her hips and closed
her eyes as the feel of him within her changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She put her hands on his chest and began to ride him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor lost all chill as he watched her
perfect breasts bounce in tandem with her movements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t had a chance to suck them yet, but
that was definitely next on the list of the night’s events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted to put his mouth all over her
beautiful body and fill every hole she had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He seriously did not think that his request would actually take place;
that she would have told him to fuck off and left him alone…but he was dealing
with a woman who wouldn’t take no for an answer and the proof of that was him
buried up to his balls in her hot body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Promised Land, indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was ready to start paying rent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra grabbed his hands and put them on her breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sue who?” she teased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t help being a Petty Betty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Who?” Victor choked out as he caressed her tits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra grinned wickedly and squeezed, making him moan
incessantly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Exactly.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, in a way that showed finesse and skill,
she reversed positions and rode him backwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor was beyond delighted to see Nedra’s glorious ass in slapping
reach and he didn’t hesitate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first slap caught her off guard and she paused
mid-stroke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Did you just—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“You talk too much,” he said as he slapped her ass
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Less chatter, more fucking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so close; don’t stop!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He swatted her ass one more time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes, increased her pace and squeezed
harder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She reached down and caressed
his balls and felt him go before she heard it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She arched her back and slowed down little by little, listening to his
sounds as he deflated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want it all,
including the sounds,” she commanded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Give me your best efforts, hermit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I just did,” Victor moaned, closing his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra dismounted and walked to the bathroom
just as his semen began running down her legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had not come prepared to fuck, but she meant what she said when she
told Victor she would do whatever was required to get him to Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin needed him, so she could deal with a
little semen now and the rest later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra came back in the room with a damp washcloth and
tenderly cleaned him up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched
her, entranced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, he had requested
sex, but this was more than that and he was curious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who was this woman?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He understood why Franklin trusted her
because he was going to go to Baxter willingly with her when this night was
over and Victor wondered if he would ever see Nedra again after that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He would if he had anything to say about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Kiss me some more,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“When was the last time you kissed a woman?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra asked as she moved the washcloth over
his groin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Not sure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years. I
don’t date.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“That’s what happens when you drop out of the world, sweet
thing.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She put the cloth to one side
and crawled on top of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It goes on
without you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Women who would have gladly
graced those beautiful lips with kisses found someone else’s to grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Women who would have happily clawed each
others’ eyes out just to have the chance to know what I just experienced with
you experienced it with someone else.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He began massaging her breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are you talking about?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra kissed his nose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“While you were busy working at Baxter, there were plenty of women
working at Baxter who wanted you, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Badly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why there have been actual
spats on your behalf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, I was
present when some pretty raunchy conversations went down regarding you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were women betting on who was going to
turn your ass out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beautiful women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Smart women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Talented women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fighting over who
was going to be your boo; over who was going to have you or die trying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have a snarky, sexy appeal that a lot of
women find irresistible, present company included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But your head was shoved so far up Sue’s nonchalant
ass that between it and your work, you didn’t see it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You had no clue. But I knew.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He looked bewildered as she pressed another kiss against his
lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why didn’t you tell me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“We weren’t on speaking terms, if you’ll recall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You didn’t know I existed, but we all knew
about you.” She smiled, recalling an all-out catfight between Darlene Marsh in
Biochemistry and Trielle Davis in Microbiology over Victor one Friday
afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Victor wondered about that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Women fighting over him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
wasn’t dumb enough to ask why, but did smile secretly to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe he had done himself a disservice
focusing only on Sue. He'd certainly missed Nedra.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra kissed him again, slowly, deliberately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was here for every one of her kisses
and met her each time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her mouth was oh so
sweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it was dangerous to be
kissing her so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like her sex, it
was becoming addicting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“We have to be after this,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was going to make sure of it. “Kiss me
again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra leaned in and kissed him once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had full, round lips that were softer
than the clouds of heaven and to be kissed by her was like being forgiven by
the God of every religion. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She dragged
it out, sweetly, tenderly, cupping his face as she graced him with her oral
charms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Good Lord,” he whispered. He had already decided he wasn’t
going to go without Nedra’s kisses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“No we don’t,” she replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What is both good and bad about you, Victor,” she dropped another kiss
on his lips, “is that you’re driven when you want something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your project was damn near all consuming and
your seriously out-of-whack feelings for Sue took care of the rest of your
attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you return to work and
you see what Reed has done with the transporter, you won’t give a damn about me
or this, or anything else.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
gripped her breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not true.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra swatted his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Be easy with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re
attached.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“You just said that I’m driven when I want something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do the math, Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You think I’m going to just let you disappear
into the background after tonight?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">those</i> kisses?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After having been to the Promised Land, she
actually thought he was just going to let this go?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was crazy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was already bored with the conversation so she kissed
him again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In moments, they were rolling
around on his bed, liplocked, hands all over each other, laughter ringing out, when
her phone began to ring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Victor abruptly broke the kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s your phone?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra blinked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What
time is it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“After 11,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Don’t worry about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give me
more of your mouth.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Shit!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra got up
and ran into the bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
watched her go, a smile on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
answered her cell and he rested his chin on folded arms and watched her lie her
way out of whatever conundrum was on the other end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">By the gods, her ass was flawless and her waist to hip ratio
was divine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He listened to her chatter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told
you I had an assignment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Yeah, well it ran longer than I expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sorry, but I’m going to be late.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you wait?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Franklin needs me to do what I’m doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know how that is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“You’ve done this shit to me before, remember? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is our thing; it’s how we roll…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ll try to be there by 1, ok?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do want to see you; it’s been a long time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Well if you don’t want to wait for me, I get it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t know how difficult this assignment
would be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be mad, okay?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When he heard that, Victor got up and walked into the
bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra glared at him and put up
a hand to block him, shaking her head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t act like you don’t have anything that will keep you
busy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, I’m wearing that purple lingerie
you like…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stared at her and loudly asked, “Do you have a date
or something?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra glared at him and showed him the hand again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s my assignment, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin asked me to get him back to the BB
and I’m here trying to convince him to do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They need him over there and he’s being a dick about the whole thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“She’s doing a hell of a job convincing me,” Victor said in
the direction of her cell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“In fact,
she’s not finished.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She glared at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ignore
him, Jon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s a dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A huge dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Anyway I’ll see you—“<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor took the phone out of her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She’ll see you tomorrow, maybe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good night, friend.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And he hung up the phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, for good measure, turned it off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s your man?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra scowled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You had no right!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jon was her boyfriend,
another former Marine and a man so fine he could stop traffic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were good together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m still not convinced to go back to Baxter, so your job
is not complete.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come along, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra was furious, but followed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m going to carve my name into your
forehead with my Bowie when this is over.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Fine with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get on
the bed, get that ass in the air.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re not controlling this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Do you want me to do it for you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I wish you would—!” she began before realizing it was as
good as giving him permission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He picked
her up and threw her on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor’s bed was just the right amount of softness and firmness and
Nedra had to admit she liked it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
seconds, he had his hands on her hips, drawing her to her knees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra found herself doggystyle, but he wasn’t making any
move to penetrate her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To her
surprise—and truthfully, she shouldn’t have been—she realized he was kissing
and caressing her buttocks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Words eluded her until he gently bit one of them and she
hissed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She maintained her balance;
remained as motionless as she could because she sensed that this was as
important to him as being inside of her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He was speaking in low tones; words she couldn’t make out,
but her senses told her that whatever he was saying was utterly filthy and she
was a bit frustrated she couldn’t hear his smutty worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And of course, she began to get wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She also realized that he hadn’t given any
attention to her breasts and they were throbbing with need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“My breasts have been ignored, hermit,” she admonished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“My nipples are aching right about now, so if
you don’t mind sharing the love?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Don’t you dare move,” he ordered, slapping her ass as he
adjusted to lie underneath her torso.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her breasts hung in his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Stay just like this. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ass in the
air, tits in my face.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What, are you going to go all newborn baby on me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“As much as possible,” he said as he cupped both breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra closed her eyes, wondering if his
nipple suck game was as good as his pussy-eating skills and in seconds, she had
her answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Shit,” she murmured, sinking lower into the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sucked hard; just the way she liked it and
she was going to feel it the next day, which she also liked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This reclusive unstable genius was like a
motherfucking Transformer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sue would have never been able to handle him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of that, Nedra was sure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She knew Sue well enough that Victor’s sexual
snark would have been a turn-off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her,
on the other hand…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh God, like that…” she said, when his teeth grazed her
tingling nipples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Like that, just like
that…make them hurt…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">His response was muffled by the fullness of her breast but
he understood perfectly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor’s hands slid
up and grabbed her ass again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
couldn’t keep away from it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His fingers
went between her thighs and came away wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He let her breasts go and pushed her downwards, sending her
face towards his groin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nedra, you’ve
got pussy juice running over my fingers and I need you to sit on my face…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh shit,” she said as she quickly found herself in the
69.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was hard again and she licked her
lips once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never let it be said
that she was never up to the task of handling a hard dick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another battle ensued; who would climax first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were both stubborn as hell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was besotted with the taste of her and she
was enamored with the taste of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some time later, Nedra was the winner, but only by
seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor made her come so hard
she saw stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eventually, she rolled
off him and to one side of the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
searched for the washcloth so she could wipe the semen off her breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He handed it to her, his face glistening with
her juice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra stared at him and he
stared right back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was something
primal in seeing his face glowing like that, and that he was making not a
single move to clean it off.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You really do need a haircut, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So give me one, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You can’t do shit on your own.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can drop
a deuce on my own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But my hair bothers
you more than it does me, so <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> do
something about it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Would you want Sue seeing you like this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“According to you, Sue wouldn’t even notice.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You really want me to cut your hair?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You trust me that much?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I trust what we just shared.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well then you better feed me because I’m hungry as hell.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He smiled at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Three rounds; I bet you are.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m not stepping foot in your kitchen.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You don’t have to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have Sherpa’s on speed dial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you
feel like?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Mediterranean.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Done.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He got up and
went into the other room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra watched
him go; satisfied in a way she hadn’t been in a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she went into the bathroom and put back
on her T-shirt and turned her phone back on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jon had called her several times and left text messages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would have to make it up to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she relieved herself, she sent Franklin a
text.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s taking some
convincing, but I think Victor will come back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He really is stubborn, like you said.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Then she sent Jon a text.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I’m sorry, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This job Franklin sent me on is a difficult
one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll make it up to you, I promise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anything you want and can handle.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Texting your wack-ass boyfriend?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She frowned at Victor, who stood in the bathroom doorway,
naked as sin and semi-turgid, leaning casually against the doorframe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“PRIVACY???”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
on the toilet!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“It’s my house; the door is open…and I’ve seen everything
you have to offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food’s ordered.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Get out!” Nedra snapped.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor shrugged and walked into the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra put her phone back on top of her
clothes, washed her hands and flushed the toilet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She opened Victor’s barber’s kit and pulled
out scissors and an electric razor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
had the skill; she used to cut her father’s and brother’s hair all the time, as
well as her own when she was in active service.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Come on and get this buzzcut,” she said, evilly wondering
what he’d look like with a reverse Mohawk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He came back into the bathroom, staring at her T-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why did you put that back on?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re not done.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra shrugged as she grabbed a towel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Come sit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How long til the food?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He sat and put a towel on his shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“An hour.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra nodded and began to comb out his hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m going to assume you want it like you
used to wear it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Trim your beard too?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Sure.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She worked surely and deftly, using the comb and shears to cut
his hair in its natural curl pattern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
she moved around his head, Victor slid his hands under her shirt and found the
scar on her belly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How you’d get this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Afghanistan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d
rather not discuss that, or any of my scars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Memories best left in the past, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t
remove his hands, however; just continued to stroke her stomach and hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had soft, beautiful skin and he realized
he hadn’t buried his face in her belly yet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He needed more time with her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She finished his hair in 30 minutes and adjusted the
clippers to the right height.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ll just
do a small square underneath your chin and you tell me if you like it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stared up at her with different eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Hold your head back.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra worked quickly, trimming him close enough so that it
wouldn’t scratch her face and body the next time he rubbed his face in her
skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor’s eyes followed her
wherever she went.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she was done,
she motioned towards the mirror.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Check it out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor stood up and looked, turning his head and running his
fingers through his hair and face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You’re good at this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many gifts,
eh?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Quite the many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come
on, let me finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m hungry as fuck
and I’m getting tired.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Three more rounds,” he said, sitting back down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re tired too,” she said, turning on the clippers while
blowing loose hair from the teeth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I haven’t had sex in over three years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you, you walk your fine ass into my house
and agree to fuck me…and then mention the number six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then you have the nerve to feel the way you
do and taste like my favorite fruit and the sex is awesome and you think I’m
just going to let you walk out of here without giving me my due?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to fuck you like an animal,
Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hell no I’m not tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d chain you to the bed if I thought I could
get away with it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra turned his head to one side, ignoring that last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“See you’re a Nine Inch Nails fan too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Closer’ is quite the jam…and so fitting
tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But let me get this done so I
can eat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He stopped talking as she carefully ran the clippers along
the planes of his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He kept his eyes
on her as she shaved him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tufts of hair
covered his chest and her shirt and when she was finished, she combed the loose
hair out and stood back, smiling at her handiwork.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor looked in the mirror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Not bad.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“That’s the Victor I remember,” she said, dusting hair off
her shirt and his shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The one
them crazy bitches threw hands over.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’ll have to tell me that story one day.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Nice try, sexy,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He paused to put on a robe and Nedra put on her panties and
jeans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She followed him out into his
dirty living room, regretting not putting on her socks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat in a chair and pulled her feet under
her just as Victor opened the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
pulled a wad of cash from a drawer and went to pay for the food.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few minutes later, they were on opposite sides of his bed,
eating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was clearly a fan of Yang’s,
and for her, Mediterranean antipasti.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra ate like she hadn’t eaten in days, with her fingers and not an
ounce of chill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor watched her
closely while eating noodles from a Yang’s box.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“When was the last time you had sex?” he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Since we’ve established my history.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Yesterday,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I have to have it on the regular.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m a healthy girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor looked at her, eyebrow raised.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is that right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t return the look because she was fixated on the
prosciutto, melon and olives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I love
sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make no secret of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not the kind of girl who’s shy about it
either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My boyfriend—the one you crudely
hung up on and keep disrespecting—is quite aware of this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He can keep up with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was supposed to see him tonight but you
fucked that up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Quite literally, in fact.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She took a long sip of iced tea and licked her fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That was good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was hungry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Expended quite a bit of energy over the last few hours.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Are you sure you don’t want to do this again after
tonight?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“This.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fucking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We’re good at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why stop?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“This was a job, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A task given to me by Franklin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He needs you at the Baxter building to continue your work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knows I have a particular skill set and I
take my job seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was and is my
intent to convince you to return to the Baxter building, which you said you
would if I fucked you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I said I’d follow your fine ass anywhere.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Which in this case is the Baxter building.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What if I change my mind?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Then I’ll be forced to change my tactics and shoot you in
the leg.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You probably would.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So don’t
make this more than what it is and don’t complicate things.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You owe me
three more fucks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’re not letting that go, are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Since this is our one and only night together, fuck
no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want everything you have;
everything you give that punk-ass boyfriend you got.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even want the sex you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">don’t</i> give him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you
in every way you can be had; I want to feel you from the inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to bend you over that chair and lick
your pussy until it swells up and I want you to titty-fuck me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to go back to the Promised Land and I
want that mouth on my dick again. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I.want.it.all.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Crass much?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Best pussy I’ve had in a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve no reason to lie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You, on the other hand…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I’ve never lied to you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You lie to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">him</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No I don’t and he’s none of your business, so there’s the
end of that conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want to go
back to the Promised Land?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want some
more cherries?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then let’s go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor’s stubborn streak was in effect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to visit that part of the Promised Land you
don’t let him go to…otherwise I’m not going anywhere.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Moments later, he had her bent over the back of the recliner
and it was as if each position was better than the last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra braced herself on the arms of the chair
and throatily encouraged him to give her more, to go faster, to do it harder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wound one hand in her hair and pulled
enough that she felt it in her face and the cackle that escaped her drove him
just a tad bit mad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It seemed she had the ability to put him on that precipice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor pulled her up and put one hand around her throat and
the other around one of her upper arms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Oh baby,” Nedra said, unable to help herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She lifted one knee on the back of the chair
to balance herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pulled her head
back by her neck and kissed her lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Squeeze,” she panted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“A little more.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor’s eyes widened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So she got down like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh hell no, this wasn’t going to be a
one-night stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Former Marine Dr. Nedra
Nix was a freak and he liked freaky shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So he obliged and her climax was explosive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She ran out like water all over his dick and
squirmed like a caught animal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pushed
her back over the edge of the chair and in moments, joined her on the other
side of ecstasy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They ended up on the
floor, entangled, sweaty, and satisfied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra was the first to speak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Goddamn, that was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">good</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor lay on the floor with his hands propped behind his
head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re into auto-erotic
asphyxiation.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No,” she sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
just like the sensation of a strong hand on my neck or head during sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like to be manhandled sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like certain things hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a Marine, and I ain't no lady.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“The more we fuck, the more I learn about you…and the more I
like it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You’ll have forgotten about that and me twenty-four hours
from now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That place and its power are
going to suck you back in so fast you’ll forget about your three-year imposed
hiatus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>With that, she looked at Victor and yawned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s late and I’m too tired to drive home,
so I’m going to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Screw your
six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to sleep.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She got into his bed and burrowed under the
covers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stood up and watched her
for a moment, a dreamy smile dancing over his lips. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span><o:p><span style="font-size: large;">'<i>Wore her ass out,'</i> he thought, </span></o:p><span style="font-size: large;">and got in bed beside her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The ringing of her phone awakened them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra stumbled out of bed and into the
bathroom where she left it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
Franklin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She walked back to the bed where Victor lay, fast
asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Hi Franklin.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Good morning, Nedra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“How’s Johnny?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Up to his old tricks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He frustrates me so much, but he’s fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Were you successful in convincing Victor to come back?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Victor turned in the bed, throwing his arm over the spot
where she’d been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finding it empty, he
opened his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra put a finger to
her lips and mouthed Franklin’s name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
think so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He just needed some
encouragement.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So when will he arrive?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Well, he really needs to clean himself up, Franklin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looks a hot ass mess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hair all fucked up, hasn’t bathed in a dog’s
age…just a big old messy mess. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Damn shame, because he's so cute. </span>So maybe
in a day or so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s got to ease back
into it all, you know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I can’t
imagine he’s going to be happy about Reed’s transporter. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He already thinks the boy stole his
design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give him time, though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’ll be okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You are a brilliant, brilliant woman, Nedra. I knew you
could do it. You've never let me down.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No problem, Franklin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Look, I need to get a few more hours’ sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor took a long time convincing and I
didn’t get home until late.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s tedious
and stubborn.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No worries, Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>See you later.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra clicked off and looked at Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I bought you an extra day, so do us both a
favor and make it count.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“You misunderstood that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You bought <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">us</i> an extra day and
right now I want to make love to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Come back to bed,” he said in a semi-drowsy voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t know what it entailed to make love
to a woman like Nedra, or even why he’d said what he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps he was still dreaming.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“No, I did that for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>,
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m getting out of here in a few
hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re both tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s just go back to sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“Get back in bed, then.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra put the phone on the dresser and climbed over Victor
to get back in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pulled the covers
over her and to her surprise, spooned behind her, fitting together like puzzle
pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put an arm around her and
buried his face in her neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was
sleepy but couldn’t immediately go back to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was restless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The events of the evening bore deeply into
her mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">This man can really,
really fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He complements Jon
wonderfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like if I could put them
together as one man...Even with Jon being as great as he is and so eager to
please me, can I really give up dick as good as Victor’s?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would really love to explore this, but
could I truly navigate it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could I
add Victor to my roster without him fucking shit up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He and I could have some truly decadent fun,
but he doesn’t have it in him to act right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He would cause problems; huge problems because he won’t behave the way I
need him to.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra tossed and turned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">I need control and
he can’t be controlled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s that
simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I allow this to happen, he
will ruin things for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He won’t allow
himself to be treated like a side-piece. He will work his way into my secret
life and pick it apart. He will fuck up my relationship with Jon and I can’t
have that.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">God, but the dick is
so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So damn good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unbelievable that a man who has locked himself away from the world is
still so very gifted at sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wonder
how he pulled that off?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">It doesn’t
matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to enjoy him with the few hours I
have left and then I never want to see him again. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned again and found herself facing Victor’s
chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put a finger under her chin
and lifted her face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“What’s wrong, Marine?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Nothing,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To her surprise, he lowered his
head and kissed her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"First lie you've told," he murmured.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedra kissed
him back, because why the fuck not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After a few minutes of lip bliss, he quieted her by wrapping an arm
around her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Go back to sleep,” he said,
and within minutes she was.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/playing-pool-with-planets-3.html" target="_blank">to be continued.</a></span></div>
</div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-29506992608370207242016-04-07T06:29:00.000-07:002016-04-07T23:35:22.307-07:00Playing Pool With Planets<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fandom: The Fantastic Four (2015)</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Pairing: Victor/Female OC<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Rating: NC-17<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Timeframe: Just before Victor arrives at the Baxter Building<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Disclaimer: Victor ain’t mine, but Nedra is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Summary: When Johnny injures himself in a car accident, Dr.
Storm sends his top scientist and former Marine Nedra Nix to recruit Victor von
Doom in his place. Debauchery ensues.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Dedicated to:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the
Dilettantes who’ve been patiently waiting for a new smutfic or sleazy shortie
from pinkelegance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been four
years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hope you like it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A/N:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This sexy story was
inspired by the hotness that is Mr. Toby Kebbells.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fan4stic didn’t do him justice. Lord knows I certainly want to, and then some.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">I: Manchild to the Promised Land</span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Franklin told her he was going to be tedious, which Nedra
interpreted as dickish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was more
familiar with Victor than he was with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She remembered when he was at the Baxter building working on the matter
transporter; a project he’d devoted ten years of his life to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was unstable, but Nedra knew that
was the other side of the genius coin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She knew he wouldn’t remember her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had a way of blending into the
background at Baxter; women like her were never revered for their skill sets,
but women like her were the reason everyone else was able to do the things that
they did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin Storm trusted her
completely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had tried many times to
bring Victor back into the fold, in spite of his criminal act, but Victor
showed no interest except to ask if Sue would be there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra knew this; knew Sue was Victor’s weak
spot (not weak enough if he hadn’t bothered to leave the comfort of his
shithole apartment to see her again) but she also knew something that Victor
didn’t.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmwJcMx3HoYTOlQ5ChKDVT-y5wLYYiJ8R6gnNc89kZ-0PLXDAEHnfyNZisiQQI-fm9bppUCRAKJ06pO2Q4FNGIzvzuWQs9jRJSndSS8az9T9R1mYFjIXryA1rz8kBAMBcyNJ3fkkEpeThK/s1600/Master+Sgt+Nedra+Nix.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmwJcMx3HoYTOlQ5ChKDVT-y5wLYYiJ8R6gnNc89kZ-0PLXDAEHnfyNZisiQQI-fm9bppUCRAKJ06pO2Q4FNGIzvzuWQs9jRJSndSS8az9T9R1mYFjIXryA1rz8kBAMBcyNJ3fkkEpeThK/s320/Master+Sgt+Nedra+Nix.png" width="318" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Nedra Nix</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She adjusted her black USMC cap and looked up into the
security cameras while ringing the bell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Dr. von Doom, it’s Nedra Nix from the Baxter Building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m here on orders from Dr. Franklin
Storm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May I please speak with you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Franklin told her that Victor never bothered to let him in,
so she expected the same treatment…especially since he didn’t really know
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But to her surprise, she got a
response.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Who are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My name is Dr. Nedra Nix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m a physical chemist and I work for Dr. Storm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sent me here to convince you to return to
Baxter because there’s been a new development in your project.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nme.assets.ipccdn.co.uk/images/2014TobyKebbell_Getty159795522020414.article_x4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://nme.assets.ipccdn.co.uk/images/2014TobyKebbell_Getty159795522020414.article_x4.jpg" height="380" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Victor von Doom</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Maybe he was bored, or curious. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She heard the locks unlatch and the door
opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra walked in and took a
flight of stairs, noticing how dusty everything was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She frowned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She hated filth and prepared herself to enter a dirty-ass
apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin told her that Victor
had been a shut-in for the past three years by choice when things went south at
the facility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After he set fire to
Franklin’s data servers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor should
have gone to jail, but Franklin spared him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The door at the top of the stairs opened and she walked into
a dark, sparse room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Darkness didn’t
bother Nedra; it was comforting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did
her best work at night, in low light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor sat at the other end of the room, in front of a table that had at
least five monitors sitting on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
room was dusty and there was an open box of Chinese food from Yang’s sitting on
the tabletop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had his feet
propped up on one end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The door behind
her closed and locked and she turned to look at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was locked in with this nut, but that was
ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She might have been in a fucked-up
part of town, but that didn’t mean she was afraid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Dr. von Doom—“<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Call me Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
I’ll call you—Nedra, is it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“It is.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What do you want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I believe I was very clear before.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why did Franklin send you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Family issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
sent me because I get things done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
here to convince you to come back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s been a development.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin found a young scientist who is the missing link in your
research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently this kid was
actually able to make the matter shuttle work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bullshit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did he
steal my design?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’d know that better than me, Victor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Come closer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can
barely see you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Maybe if you turned on some lights…?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor sat up and turned to face her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hair and beard were unkempt and he was
wearing a tiny glass monitor over one eye.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Playing video games, are we?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra asked as she walked towards him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looked like twice-baked shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Victor she remembered had been a caustic
cutie not afraid to flip off the higher-ups; a trait she secretly admired.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Maybe.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor hit a
key on one of the keyboards and the room illuminated a little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra found herself under scrutiny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She remained still, one hand casually
covering the holster on her right side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I have seen you before,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t know her name, but he had seen her
around Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Truthfully, s</span>he was hard not to see.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Doubtful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m good
at staying out of the way of you good people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But anyway, back to the topic at hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m here to get you back to Baxter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Will you come with me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What’s in it for me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Don’t you want to see this kid’s take on your research?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Not particularly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Franklin says it works.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Doubtful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spent
ten years working on that project and you’re going to casually stroll in here
and tell me some young upstart was able to do what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> couldn’t?” He snorted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I just did.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
shifted slightly, her hand still covering her holster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor stared at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you carrying a gun?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You don’t live in the savory part of town, so yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m going to need you to divest yourself of your weapon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Only if it means you’ll come with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He got out of his chair and came around the table while
tossing the game monocle on the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra was about six feet from him and did not move a muscle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t afraid of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But damn, he looked like hell warmed over a
dozen times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Are you saying that you won’t leave here without me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I get things done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin sent me because that’s one of my many gifts.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Do tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are
some others?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted
to play games. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "I'm</span> a card shark and
a pool hustler. I’m good with a knife and even better with a rifle.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Your attire suggests that you’re an ex-Marine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Former Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
don’t let this pretty face fool you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
can fuck you up at least six different ways, so watch yourself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He looked amused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Is
that right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra didn’t smile back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“It would be your good fortune never to find that out, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m an ace markswoman, a fierce chemist, and
a bad-ass bitch with a blade.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor looked her over carefully, stiffening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You say that like it’s supposed to scare me,
but actually my dick’s getting hard.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I doubt that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You come on over and you can find out for yourself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When she didn’t take the bait, he said, “So Franklin sent
you and you have to convince me to come with you back to a place I loathe with
the exception of one person.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Sue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were totally wrong about her, though.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d foolishly shown his hand and she was
going to make him regret it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">That got his attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Explain that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra fingered the brim of her cap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You were into her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t into you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You never had a good read on her; you saw
what you wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sue’s like me; she’s
about her business. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You saw…<i>wife</i>
material, I guess, with your Simple Simon ass." Nedra rolled her eyes. "She meant more to you than you did to her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra was calm as she said this but her words had an
effect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor took two steps toward
her—he was taller than she remembered—and she shook her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You mean you couldn’t tell?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For fuck’s sake, you called her Susan when
she preferred to be called Sue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like it
didn’t matter what she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dead ass
wrong about her, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dead ass wrong.
”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The look on his face was dangerous, but Nedra wasn’t
scared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She kept her hand on her Glock
and didn’t move a muscle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You’re too
smart to be dumb around women, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sue
Storm is a dead end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> So if she was your deal breaker, then deal with it so we can move on. C</span>an we get back
to the business at hand?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You look like hell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clean yourself up before you come
anywhere with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m not going anywhere with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck off.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“That’d be a nah,” Nedra said, her hand steady. If it came to it, she would shoot him in the leg and drag him to Baxter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Remove your weapon and maybe I’ll consider considering it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes again and unsnapped her holster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She removed her gun, extricated the clip and
popped the chamber, catching the bullet with one hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She slid the clip into her back pocket, the
bullet into a front pocket and carefully put the Glock on the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Start considering because I don’t have all
night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got other places I need to be.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s dark eyes moved over Nedra; not in a slimy way, but
more like he was collecting data.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wore a motorcycle jacket and a snug black T-shirt that said “<i>Semper Fi ‘Til I
Die</i>” and even more snug jeans held in place with a black belt and a USMC
buckle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her black boots were
comparatively stylish. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t a bad
looking woman; in fact, she was far more than that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Let’s face it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have no interest in returning to that place and I don’t give a fuck that some
little snotnose wunderkind supposedly beat me at my own game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I highly doubt it, in fact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re going home empty-handed, Marine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes once more. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had not noticed the other weapon on her
left hip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wondered about using that
pile of hair on his head as target practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m not leaving here without you, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin trusts me and I will not have that
trust misplaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t you want to get
out of this shithole?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look at this
place!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve been out of the game for
the better part of three years.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m perfectly happy in my shithole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You came to me, and you’re not doing a good
job of convincing me that I should come with you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra changed tactics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I do my job; I get things done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Franklin wants you back, so you’re coming back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One way or another.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that a threat?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I don’t make threats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I can and will drag your scummy ass out of this building if that’s
what it takes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you; don’t let
this pretty face fool you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor smiled to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had absolutely nothing to lose and this woman basically just walked
into his house making demands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
decided to go for broke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had not left
his house in three years, and it was interesting engaging in banter with a real
live person and not some internet troll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Especially when it was a woman like Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those jeans left little to the imagination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was the best looking woman he’d seen in
years and he was hard up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re locked in here with me, so you’re not dragging my
scummy ass anywhere…though it would be delightful to see you try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is that another gun?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes again and waved her hand as if what he
said was inconsequential.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Locked doors
aren’t a problem for me, Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come
on, let’s make this easy for both of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You don’t have to stay, but you do have to go.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Answer the question, Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is that another gun?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra is my name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or
Dr. Nix if you prefer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And no, it is not
a gun.” She casually pulled her Bowie knife from its sheath and tossed it into
the air, catching it by the handle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“It’s a blade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never go anyplace
like this unstrapped.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she stuck it
back in the sheath and gave him a sultry ‘come hither’ look.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor didn’t realize until this very second that he had a
serious thing for women who were armed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A gun, a knife…what other weapon did she have hidden among her person?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted to disarm her, in more ways than
one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What are you willing to do to make me come with you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked at him evenly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Whatever’s required.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“For Franklin.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“For Franklin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Semper
Fi, motherfucker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you understand it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Quite well, in fact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So you’ll do whatever it takes to stay in Franklin’s good graces and get
a pat on the head and a cookie for delivering me unto him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Whatever floats your boat, sweet thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can we move it along?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a date later on that night and she
was starting to get a little pressed with Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could sense it and decided to up the ante.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So a fuck isn’t out of the question, then?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked at him and cocked her head to the side as if
she didn’t understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What did you
say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh I think you heard me, Marine,” he replied.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Did you just ask me to fuck?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You said you’d do whatever’s required to get me out of my
shithole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been in here—quite
willingly—for three years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Porn gets old
quick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m bored with virtual
women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could go for some fresh pussy
right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You said that you could fuck
me up six different ways, so why don’t you just fuck me six different ways?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You give me some of that,” he pointed his
chin in her direction, “and I’ll follow your fine ass anywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Including the Baxter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra had heard far cruder propositions, but this one caught
her from the left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You want to fuck
me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re serious? ”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Aren’t you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About
your job; getting things done…being loyal to Franklin?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And hell yes, I want to fuck you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not blind.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked to the left, then to the right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d call his bluff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no way he was serious. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was just a game. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like pool, her favorite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was bluffing but she was far better at
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not that you can handle this particular
flavor of pussy, Victor, but sure…whatever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One condition.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That she was
even considering it was surprising.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
him it was a shot in the dark, but it apparently hit its target.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You look like shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You probably smell like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
not fucking you until you take a shower.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He clapped right back, faster than she expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Take one with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So that I’m clean enough for your estimable standards.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Your bathroom isn’t clean enough for me to get in, if the
rest of your apartment is any indication.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You won’t know unless you look.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor waved his hand in the direction of a
door off to one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll follow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra kept her hand over her knife as she walked past
Victor, giving him a wide berth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
followed her and shamelessly ate up the sight of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was already hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had been a long time since he’d used
anything other than his hand to get off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then suddenly, a hot woman showed up at his door and agreed to have sex
with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What heterosexual man wouldn’t
be turgid?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Her ass was a monument to greatness and she walked like she
knew what she carried between her thighs was the stuff of legend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this thing actually happened, Victor
planned to have his hands all over the one and his face all up in the other…at
minimum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What was your rank in the Corps?” he asked, to distract himself from his lust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was a stunner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How had a woman as fine as she was remained
hidden in the mostly-male dominated Baxter building?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some man had her on lockdown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Briefly he wondered if it was Franklin, but immediately discarded
the thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No way Franklin Storm was
fucking the woman in front of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
way in hell could he handle a nuke like Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No way he was her dude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not that Victor
gave a damn about those insignificant details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He didn’t care who Nedra else was fucking, but tonight it was going to be
him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Master Sergeant.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She grabbed the doorknob and hesitated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“This your bathroom?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may as
well check it out too, since that’s where I’m going to have my way with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also my bathroom’s in there.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She paused and looked up in the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m not fucking you while you’re dirty OR in
a dirty ass bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should have
considered that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not lowering my
standards that much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you talk a lot
of shit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And you talk too much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Open the fucking door.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra opened the door and was surprised to see a sparse,
neat bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bed, a king, looked
expensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a giant TV on the
wall across from it, a dresser, a table, and a recliner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Bathroom’s in the corner, Marine,” Victor ordered, nudging
her a little bit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Stop calling me that, Criminal,” she sassed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You should be in jail with that stunt you
pulled.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Ah, we’ve regressed to name calling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How utterly prosaic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But you can call me anything you like once
you’ve got those legs around my head and that ass in my face.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra strolled across the bedroom quickly and closed her
eyes as she turned the bathroom door handle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You ever been with a black woman before, Victor?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You ever been with a white man before, Nedra?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Yes, and he had a little dick and couldn’t fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t expect the trend to change.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She opened the bathroom door and found it
clean and neater than the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
stopped short in the doorway, actually surprised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What?” he said, as he tried to think of a clapback to her
last dig.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“How is it that your bedroom and bathroom are clean, but
that room out there looks like it hasn’t seen the business end of a vacuum in a
decade?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You look like a millennial
rendition of Grizzly Fucking Adams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your
hair looks like a dirty-ass mop and your beard is a scuzzy-ass mess but you’ve
got a barber kit next to the sink?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
gives?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“The internet doesn’t give a shit how I look.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He carefully took her by the elbow and turned
her sideways so he could slide through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor brushed against her, looking down into her eyes and wondering if
what he saw in hers matched what she saw in his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The brush-against was deliberate; she was
soft yet firm and he wasn’t going to bother hiding his desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was so fucking hot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Pity,” she said, wondering when she’d call his bluff…or
when he’d call hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She casually
ignored his obvious erection when he passed by her other than to note that it
didn’t <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">feel</i> little.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor turned on the shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“How do you like your water?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Just shy of boiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Tepid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll find a
happy medium so that we’re both satisfied. What do you say, Marine?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“My name is Nedra, if you don’t mind.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor ran his hand back and forth under the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had one of those rainfall fixtures,
something Nedra desperately wanted in her own bathroom and she couldn’t help
but bite her lip and swallow as the water fell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As she was lusting after the showerhead, Victor leaned against his sink
and raised one eyebrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He waved his hand in her direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Take off your clothes. Ladies first.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was itching to see what she looked like
naked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra cocked her head to the side and looked at Victor like
he had kicked her dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t know you
like that, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">boy</i>! You get naked first!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“What’s that slogan you Marines use?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First to Fight?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So be it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You said whatever’s required and I require that you strip for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra realized at that moment that the opportunities for
either of them to call one another’s bluff were shrinking and that she might
very well end up fucking this dude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
was seriously going to interfere with her real date…someone she knew could
actually satisfy her sexually.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck,’</i> she
thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she eyed Victor
carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Same time, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Same time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t know you, so same time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Fair enough,” he said, and began removing his clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra did as well, taking care to fold her
items and lay them on the toilet seat as she removed them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor had no such habits; he merely tossed
everything out into the bedroom as it came off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was slender.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra sighed
dramatically; he wasn’t going to be strong enough if that was the case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She had to perch each foot on the side of the toilet to
remove her leather boots and socks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
she shimmied out of her Levi’s, revealing plum-colored lingerie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last item she removed was the elastic
that held her bun in place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her curly
hair sprung loose and wild.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked
at herself in the mirror, thinking that her hair wouldn’t be in too bad of a
condition once the five minutes were up, because this quickie wouldn’t take
longer than that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She fluffed it out,
oblivious to her captured audience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor couldn’t stop staring at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lingerie—real live lingerie on a real
live woman—was a bonus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was lacy and
sheer and did nothing to hide her areolae or the thatch of neatly shaved hair
between her thighs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a scar on
her belly, one on one hip, and another on one arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wondered if they were battle scars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They did not detract from her beauty one
iota.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His dick was harder than diamonds,
adamantium, vibranium…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jesus, her ass, her legs, her face…her entire body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor was going to fuck the shit
out of Nedra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a coup that she’d
landed in his lap on today of all days!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The best thing he’d had planned before her untimely arrival was Call of
Duty, Beethoven, and dumplings from Yang’s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra couldn’t resist another dig, even a lighthearted
one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned to face him and
smiled<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“See something you like, hermit?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s tone was deadly serious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I see something I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">want</i>, Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And hurry up
before the water gets cold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unless, of
course, you’re giving me the pleasure of getting you out of those sexy-ass
panties.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra rolled her eyes and unsnapped her bra, which blessedly
was a front-snap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She slid it off and
put it on top of her folded clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then she carefully removed her panties and did the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor reached past her, grabbed them and put
them to his face before inhaling deeply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra stared at him as her nipples tightened up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the moment when they both realized
that neither of them was going to call the other’s bluff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no turning back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were actually going to fuck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Been a while, eh?” she queried.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He didn’t respond other than to look at her intently while
sniffing her panties once more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
turned away from him with a quiet “Alrighty then,” and opened the
shower door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Steam billowed out as she
stepped inside, avoiding the spray so her hair wouldn’t get wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor needed the bath, not her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He got in behind her and closed the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The shower was spacious and had a corner
seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was sitting down on it, legs
crossed, smiling at the man before her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“So?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“So what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Why are we in here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take a bath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wash up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want a trip to the Promised Land; the
price of admission is a clean dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
clean big dick, preferably.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Promised Land, eh?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What does it promise?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled, thinking about something her past lovers used
to say, and something that her current boyfriend consistently said, “That it’s
the best you’re ever going to have and you’ll get addicted.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Now it was time for Victor to roll his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And you say <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> talk shit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Oh baby, believe me…I can back it up.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Exes still called sometimes, but they were
exes for a reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So go on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wash up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lather up real good and wash that skinny ass you got so we can move on
in life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Better idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why
don’t you give me a bath?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just to make
sure my dick’s clean enough for the journey to the Promised Land. I don't want you reneging on me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra looked at the bars of soap he had available; none to
her liking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she shrugged and stood
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t the one who needed a bath
and grabbed the first one and began to lather her hands under the rain
spray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor noticed that she was
careful not to get her hair wet and he smiled to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a little while it wouldn’t matter and she
wouldn’t care, either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pushed Victor
forward so that he was underneath the rainfall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He stared at her as she placed her lathered her hands on his chest and began
to bathe him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stood there, watching
carefully as she soaped his torso and arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She did his hands separately, applying massage-style techniques to his
palms and fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra noted that his
nails were perfectly trimmed, which didn’t jibe with the whole hobo vibe he had
going on in the front room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s eyes were closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was so aroused that he was leaking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra’s hands were instruments of intense pleasure and he didn’t object
when she bypassed his groin to wash his legs and feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra moved her fingers over his body slowly,
carefully, deliberate in her movements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He watched the top of her head as she moved down each leg and back up,
barking out an order of her own: “Turn around.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He did and was treated to a sublime pleasure of having his
legs and thighs massaged in lather and the pressure did not decrease as she
soaped his ass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nice ass,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was, at any rate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She moved
closer to wash his back and couldn’t help feeling wicked about the whole
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No longer mindful of her hair,
she ran her hands over the muscles of Victor’s back and shoulders before
pressing against him and using her breasts to make slow circles over his skin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck</i>,” he choked
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What the hell did you just
do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do it again…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra upped the ante by putting her hands on his waist and
moving her chest up and down and back and forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her nipples grazed him in all directions and she heard his breathing quicken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Were those your <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tits</i>?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sounded out of breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Do that again, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuck, do that shit again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra came around and stared into his eyes as her hands
closed around his erection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She closed
her eyes, gauging the size and thickness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor did as well, knowing that in about ten seconds, he was going to
come in her hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra stroked him
slowly, pressing her breasts against his chest and moved in such a way that her
nipples scraped him as she caressed his dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor was so hard for her that the merest touch of her hand would make
him skeet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s head tipped back and he moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When his head was clear, he was going to fuck
the shit out of this woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All she’d
done was take the edge off; handle the pesky situation of a quickie without it
being such.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he climaxed, a raw
sound escaped his throat that neither of them could describe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra let the water rinse the foam off her hands and she
reached behind him and grabbed the shampoo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Without a word, she squirted a dollop in her hands and met his eyes,
which were wild with need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Dip your head,” she said and he quietly obeyed as she
washed his hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed his eyes as
her fingernails gently scraped his scalp in slow, seductive sweeps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor put his hands on Nedra’s breasts and
blindly thumbed her nipples, wanting nothing more than for her to continue
scratching his head as he latched on to one and sucked his way into that gentle
goodnight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could have gone on like
that for hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra maneuvered him under the showerhead and water sluiced
over him, rinsing him and washing the soap down the drain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tilted his head back to get the lather out
of his hair and face, not seeing her drop to her knees. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wanted to give him some head and his penis
was almost perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Almost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her boyfriend had a better one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her quip about dating a white man with a
little dick was true, but it was a distant memory as she gazed at Victor’s
erection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘Not the case here,’</i>
she thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘Dear God, I hope he knows what to do with it.’</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A grin split her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">But </i>I<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> do.’<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She took him in her mouth and closed her eyes. There was
nothing, absolutely nothing like the feel of a hard dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She liked sucking dick; had been doing so
since she was 15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her skills were
considerable and it was as obvious as the erection between her lips that the
man it belonged to appreciated said skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor grabbed handfuls of Nedra’s hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He moaned sharply, legs weakening, as he did not yet have it all the way
in him to last longer than a minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra bobbed her head and sucked slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Nedra…damn it, Nedra….”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra smiled around a mouthful of dick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t going to take long to wrap this up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor pulled her hair and she winced but didn’t stop until
he came.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He slid down the shower wall,
limp and exhausted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stared at her
through the rain of warm water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
grinning at him while licking her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nedra had a talented, talented mouth and Victor was determined to make
her use it again before she left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra
smiled sweetly as she helped him to his feet and rinsed her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned off the shower, satisfied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I think we’re done here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Those words got Victor all the way together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Fuck if we are,” he said, turning the water back on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You said I could have a trip to the Promised
Land and damn it if I don’t plan to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After that blowjob, I got my bags packed.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He put his arms around her and lifted her
easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took two steps and pushed her
up against the bench.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Victor, really…” she began, but he grabbed one leg and
perched it on the seat and moved one hand between her thighs and before she
could utter another word, he slipped two fingers inside of her and
simultaneously groaned and closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It had been a long, long time since he’d had his fingers in such a
place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shit,”</i> he
whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was another moment before
he could form a sentence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I have to know what it feels like</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It was another moment before she could respond, but it
wasn’t words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somewhere during their
snarky banter, she’d gotten ridiculously aroused and the fingers he inserted
were nice and slick and coiled around her natural curve, pressing gently into
her G while his thumb made slow circles around her C.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra was outside of herself, startled that
he found his way to the Promised Land so fast without her help that she didn’t
hear him talking at first.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“She’s a pretty little pussycat, isn’t she?” he teased as he
continued to finger her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She’s soft and
warm and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ummmm</i>...”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Goddamn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s eyes were closed as he slid his fingers slowly back
and forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So soft, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so hot…so wet…Nedra…”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She was staring down at this man, on his knees, fingers
inside her, his attention completely on the task at hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Victor</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He opened his eyes and looked up at her like a man
possessed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His fingers continued to
slide and press gently, driving her slowly insane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your clit pokes up between your lips, like
she’s winking at me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Inviting me in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to enjoy kissing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">her</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra hadn’t expected this brash show of confidence and
skill at all and put her hand over her mouth to mute her response.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed her hand and pressed it against
the wall, linking her fingers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“No, no, no,” he said, wiggling his fingers back and
forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was wetter than the water
from the shower and he was suddenly greedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I want it all, including the sounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Give me your finest efforts, Marine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Scream for me, come for me,” he said in a low, seductive voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Stop with that,” she tried to say but it all came out in a
series of moans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And to her chagrin, it
didn’t take him long to figure her out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She came all over his hand and squeezed her eyes shut as he
chuckled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Am I not the only one for
whom it’s been a while?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You’re a dick,” she was able to say after a few
minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“And I’m going to use it on you,” he responded softly,
shifting quickly so that she was now sitting on the seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed her thighs and put them over his shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You feel so good. I bet you taste even better.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You get down like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>?”
Nedra asked, side-eyeing him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I want to get down like that with you,” he replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor wanted to shove his face between her
thighs and gobble her like a starving refugee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His fingers were still wet from earlier and a quick suck on the middle
one was enough to drive him just a tad past mad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Licking her was now of the utmost
importance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Promised Land, indeed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra wanted to stop him; not because she didn’t want it but
because she didn’t trust him to do it right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There were some men out there who, for the record, liked giving head but
didn’t know how to do it properly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
was a topic of conversation whenever she got together with her girlfriends for
a good old-fashioned sex gabfest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor
hadn’t been with a woman in at least three years and she didn’t think it was
possible to be able to eat pussy without an actual pussy present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he had skills, he hadn’t been practicing
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either way, she didn’t trust him
to handle her correctly…but that worry soon went the way of the dodo because in
moments, her hands held double handfuls of his hair and she was grinding
against his face, dripping, soaking wet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Damn it</i>,” she
moaned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Victor</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He paused in his obvious enjoyment and said, “You have the
fattest, glossiest lips I’ve ever seen and I’ve watched a metric ton of
porn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No comparison, Nedra. I’m going to
rub my face all up in your pussy and you’re going to like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Help me out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Part those pretty fat lips for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The way he said her name and what he commanded her to do! ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What the actual fuck?’ </i>flew through her
mind as her fingers obeyed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He looked up at her and said, “Lock your legs around my
head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to lick you first then
stick my tongue in your hot little—”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra interrupted. “Where and when in the hell did you learn
how to do this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve been a fucking
shut-in…how have you been able to keep up these skills?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hadn’t left the house in years, but for
all she knew he could have paid escorts to come service him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I’m a shut-in, not a corpse. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what makes you think that my sex game was
ever off? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now do as I say or I’ll spank
that pretty round ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bet
you’d like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra grabbed his hair again, veed her fingers and crossed
her legs around his head, wondering if he would anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was turning out to be a delightful
assignment, but Franklin could never know that she’d used her most lethal weapon
on the volatile Victor—who had actually just licked the entire length of her
vagina up and then down, using the back of his tongue for maximum effect before
deliberately shoving his tongue in, just like he’d said he do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a wet, juicy, liquidy mess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He was tongue-fucking her and she couldn’t help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Dear sweet black baby Jesus, Father Almighty,
Ra, and the great Cthulhu…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">do that again</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor’s cheeks and lips glistened with his efforts and he
smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You like that shit, don’t you,
Marine? I bet your boyfriend doesn’t eat you out like this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t help teasing her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t stop licking her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“You don’t follow orders well, do you, hermit? I said do it
again!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cause clearly, you like it too!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“I do like it,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then finish it!!!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He casually obeyed and this time quit fucking around with
the banter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra’s head lolled to one
side and she squeezed her thighs, crushing Victor’s head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It clearly excited him and a muffled, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck yes</i>!” escaped him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">No, Franklin could not know that she had fucked the recruit and
then all rational thought left her when he gently sucked on her clitoris and
she climaxed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tugged his hair hard
enough to make him say, “OW!” and her legs limply slid off his shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pulled her to her feet and made a
deliberate show of sucking his fingers and licking his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You taste like cherries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I fucking love, love, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">love</i> cherries…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Is that right,” Nedra said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Good to know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My boyfriend
thinks I taste like honeyed peaches.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">“Then he’s a weak-ass fuckboy who doesn’t know his
fruit.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victor turned off the shower and
got out, handing Nedra a towel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
typically air-dried.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It hadn’t been his immediate intention to come at her the
way he had once they got in the shower, but he hadn’t been able to take his
eyes off her the moment she came out of those pretty panties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once he’d gotten a whiff of them, it became
the most important thing in the universe to know (1) what she felt like and (2)
what she tasted like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He became a man
possessed and she did not disappoint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cherries…sweet, sweet cherries that were so ripe that they burst in the
mouth the moment they touched the tongue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He didn’t think he would last ten seconds once he slipped inside of her
and she was going to make sure he was good and embarrassed by it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor wasn’t going to allow her to leave without eating her
out again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t going to allow her
to leave until he had her in every way he wanted to have her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t going to let her leave until she
had enjoyed him in every way that was pleasurable to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t going to allow her to leave until they
were both completely sated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That much he
did know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nedra had willingly come to
him, refused to leave, and agreed to have sex with him and he was going to take
full advantage of that fact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He bet it
was something she’d never tell her beloved Franklin about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or her wack-ass boyfriend. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nedra made an attempt to towel-dry her hair and gave up
after a minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She dried her body and
looked over at Victor, smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That
was nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But seriously, we’re done
here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Victor stared at her as if he’d been hit with a cattle prod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fuck if we are,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You said you were willing to do whatever’s
required to get me back to a place I don’t want to go to, correct, Marine?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">She sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And use my name, please.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Then you have not accomplished your task, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Nedra</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I still have no interest in going to the Baxter building, so we’re not
done here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not even close. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">want</i>
to go is to the Promised Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if I
recall correctly, you said six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was
one, and you still owe me <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">five</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Five trips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I hope your sexy ass is up for the journey.”</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinkelegance2k9.blogspot.com/2016/04/playing-pool-with-planets-2.html" target="_blank">to be continued...</a></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-82036739705766723442013-02-01T21:04:00.000-08:002013-02-01T21:04:00.032-08:00What You Owe Me (7)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">7: Woman Story<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iliya
sat in one of the relatively uncomfortable chairs in the office of the
Enterprise’s new family psychologist.
Chekov sat in the chair next to her, alternating looks between his
girlfriend and the doctor. Iliya was
halfway hysterical, which had become her default mode since she learned that
she was pregnant and that her child’s father didn’t want to make their
relationship official. Chekov tried to
be patient with her, as he could understand her frustrations, but there was
only so much he could take. As soon as
Dr. Moton was hired, Kirk ordered them to counseling.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iliya’s
face was red and she was shredding tissue as she all but screamed at the
tranquil psychologist. “Dr. Moton, it is
only right that Pavel and I get married.
I am pregnant. Any other decision
is unacceptable!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Miss
Vadasconovich, please remain calm. Getting
upset resolves nothing.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chekov
chimed in. “Please Iliya. We are here to resolve our conflict. It does not benefit the baby for you to be so
upset.” He tried to touch her arm and
she yanked it out of his reach, glaring at him with angry dark eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Pavel,
it will resolve itself once we marry and our child is legitimate!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Is
that the problem?” Dr. Moton asked. “You’re worried that your child will be considered
illegitimate if you are not married?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“It
is not the way of my family to produce children without fathers.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chekov’s
eyes widened. “But Iliya, that is not
true in this case. I am the father. I would not deny my child. I do not think it is right for us to get
married just because you are pregnant.”
He reached for her arm again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iliya
turned away from Chekov. “It is not
right for us to have this baby without our relationship being official.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dr.
Moton stared at the teenagers in front of her.
“Iliya, would you have wanted to marry Pavel had you not gotten
pregnant?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
girl looked at Chekov and then at the psychologist. There was a long pause before she
responded. “Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dr.
Moton cocked her head. “Iliya, may I ask
another question?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
girl nodded. “Yes, Doctor.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dr.
Moton waited a very long moment and then quietly asked, “Do you love Pavel?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iliya
stared at Dr. Moton, her eyes wide with surprise. “What?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Do
you love Pavel? Do you love him?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chekov
turned to look at Iliya. Iliya looked at
him and then back at Dr. Moton. The
psychologist smiled at the girl with warm brown eyes and folded her hands
together on top of her desk. “Are you in
love with the father of your child?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iliya
blinked and found the question difficult to answer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tina
stood in the middle of Dr. McCoy’s quarters, sipping on fruit juice. Her face was flushed and McCoy kept insisting
that she sit down. She kept refusing,
but it was because she was in a bitchy mood and it wasn’t going to outlast her
fatigue. Her feet were swollen and she
was exhausted. Personnel had been extra
busy hiring additional staff.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Tina,
please. Please. I know you’re still irritated with me, but I
also know you’re tired. Please sit down. Get off your feet.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rolling
her eyes, Tina sat across from him. “Do
you have anything to eat, Len?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“What
do you want?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Salt
& vinegar potato chips. Or dill
pickle chips if you have them. And one
of those FrostEE things.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
can’t let you eat that, Tina. It’ll play
hell with your blood pre—”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tina
vehemently cut him off. “Len, I will say
this one time. If I have to carry this
baby, I will do exactly as I please. I
will eat what I want. I will do what I
want. Last I checked, I’m the one whose
body is distorted and the only one of us suffering from morning sickness. Don’t you DARE try and regulate what I
eat! Don’t you even think of doing
it! Get me my motherfucking potato chips
or I will go and get them myself! You
just asked me to sit down, so don’t make me get back up! Because if I have to get up, I’m walking out
of that door after I go pee. Are we
clear?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Tina,”
McCoy said, his face red. She was an
absolute spitfire, but that was one of the reasons why he liked her. However, he had the good sense not to argue
with the mother of his child and got up to replicate a bowl of potato chips and
a whipped FrostEE.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tina
bit into a chip. “These are REGULAR
potato chips, you shithead!” But she
gobbled them like she was starving and sucked down the FrostEE as if she were
dying of thirst. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">McCoy
watched her carefully, keeping the smile off his face. Tina was starting to show, and it showed in
her face. He thought that she would be
even lovelier when the baby started getting big. He sat next to her on the couch and
waited. He knew Tina well enough to know
that she needed a few minutes to calm down whenever they spoke. She was a very passionate woman to begin
with; the pregnancy had altered her innate heat exponentially. They were unable to speak without arguing,
but it seemed that was ebbing, for their arguments began to cease or at least
become one-sided. McCoy stopped quarrelling
with Tina because it did nothing but upset her.
She continued to bait him to get him to fight with her, but he
refused. It didn’t stop her from having
an attitude, but McCoy sensed he was wearing her down.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After
a few minutes, Tina covered her face with her hands. “Leonard, I’m tired. I’m so tired.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Tina,
do you want to lie down? You can stay
here, you know.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No,
I mean I’m tired of <i>this</i>. I’m tired of fighting with you. I’m tired of being angry; tired of carrying
this child…I’m scared.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Scared
of what, Tina?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
don’t want to be a mother.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Tina,
I know that. This kid wasn’t
planned. I would have never deliberately
gotten you pregnant. I was content with
our relationship as it was. I never
intended for everything that transpired to occur.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
know that,” she said, grabbing her lower back and groaning. “I know I’ve blamed you for everything and
I’m sorry. I’m sorry I’ve been such a
bitch and sorry I’ve been so poisoned.
It’s just that I had my life planned out and kids never figured into
it. I haven’t a clue as to how to be a
mother…and it’s too late for me to have an abortion.” She swallowed. “Honestly, Len, I don’t think I could have
aborted this child to begin with.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Could
have fooled me, Tina,” McCoy said, trying to hide his shock. “I was convinced that you’d do it without my
consent.” He had been waiting for one of
the starbase nurses to inform him that she had indeed gone through with the
procedure.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
wanted to, but it was just thoughts. And
we may as well try to figure out how we’re going to do this, because I’m going
to have this baby and I’m not just going to hand it over to you to raise.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Tina,
that’s all I want, you know.” It wasn’t <i>all</i>, but McCoy had the sense not to push
the volatile personnel officer. “I just
want the chance to be a father again. I
know we can do this if we try.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tina
nodded and then got up. “I need to go
pee. Can you get me something else to
eat?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“What
do you want now?” He would get her
whatever she wanted, salty or not.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Food,”
she said, finally giving him a small smile.
“I trust you to get me something that I’ll want.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">McCoy
got up from the couch, smiling to himself as he headed back to the replicator.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Koko
knocked on Dana Hannity’s door. Parker
answered, smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Koko! Come in.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She
did. “Where’s Dana?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’ll
get her. What’s going on, Koko?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Great
news,” the scientist said. “But it’s
girl talk, so I’ll wait for Dana. I’m
sure she’ll tell you the moment I leave.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Parker
laughed and went to get his wife. A few
minutes later, Dana emerged from the restroom and greeted Koko.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“So
how is it being married?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana
shrugged. “Parker’s and my relationship
has always been good. There’s no change,
except he’s living with me now.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You
still having sex?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Of
course. My hormones are crazy.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Good,”
Koko said, smiling. “Have as much as you
want now. It isn’t like you have to
worry about getting knocked up. I really
need for these damned computers to get right so that I can get laid. I’m a bit paranoid right now, but there’s
this absolutely handsome guy on the base who I can hardly wait to fuck. It won’t be long until I get over my
paranoia; he’s too fine for me not to.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Same
old Koko. But you know you can go down
to the base and get your injection.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Koko
hugged herself and took a deep breath.
“I haven’t been able to gather the nerve to do it. This whole business has freaked me out and
fucked up my sex life, if you want me to keep it real with you.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Always. And if you’re not freaked out, then
something’s wrong with you. How long has
it been since you had the abortion?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
long have we been grounded? Six, seven
weeks? The first week we got here, Marcy
and I took care of that.” Koko looked
relieved.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana
eyeballed her crazy card-playing partner and friend. “Koko, do you regret having the abortion?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Koko’s
eyes widened. “What? Hell no!
I don’t want any fucking kids. I
hate those little bastards.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana
patted her thickening middle. “They’re
not so bad, Koko.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Not
when they’re wanted, Dana. Don’t try any
of that foolishness on me, either. Kids
are messy, disruptive and expensive and I’m too damn selfish to share my life
with one. You see I don’t keep a man
around very long. Get what you want and
keep it moving, that’s what I go by.
Kids keep you from keeping it moving.
What the fuck would I do with a whiny little bastard brat? Sorry. I have no regrets. Not one.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana
nodded her head. Koko never made it a
secret that she hated children. Nor was
she secretive about her selfishness. It
was a running joke among the card sharks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After
a few moments, Dana nodded. “So, what’s
up?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Good
news. Barbara Jean’s a big fat
liar. Sulu isn’t her baby’s daddy.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana
grinned. “I knew it.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Diane
in Medical Bay analyzed the results of her paternity test. Sulu’s not the father, nor is Timmons. That stank-ass bitch got knocked up by some
no-name dick on shore leave just like the rest of us.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
did you find out?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Shit,
I asked. Diane didn’t want to tell me,
but she, just like all of us, hates Barbara Jean’s guts and has been trying to
get back at her for months for that incident in the ship’s library. I promised her I’d wait for Sulu to say
something first. You’re the only one I’m
telling, so let’s not get Diane in trouble.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Koko,
you’re insane.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Dana,
tell me something new. But it’s good gossip,
right? Sure it is. You know my part of the grapevine is always
grounded in truth. Some aspect of it
anyway. We all knew Babs was lying; this
just confirms it. She was in Madir
having sex with a bunch of guys just like the rest of us. Or at least <i>us</i>, not you or Charlene, or…”
A pause. “Janice will be
happy. Sulu will too, I expect.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Of
course he will be. I don’t think he
minds Janice having his kid, but Barbara Jean?
Please. I give Sulu some credit. He saw an opportunity and took it, the sexy
player. Don’t tell Parker I said that.” Dana blushed and covered her cheeks like a
teenage girl with a crush.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Parker
knows you don’t want anyone else but him, Dana.
And he knows that most of the people on board this ship think Sulu is a
hottie. I’d fuck him if I felt like
fucking.” Koko sighed. “I need to get over my paranoia. Maybe I’ll do it once we get back in space.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Yeah. So you can get laid. We’re tired of hearing you bitch about
it.” Dana laughed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You’re
tired of hearing me bitch? You have no
idea how tired I am of needing it and not having it. Speaking of things we’re having, how’s your
kid?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Fine.” Dana patted her pooch. “Just fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“That’s
good to hear. I really am happy for you,
Dana. You are definitely the mothering
type and Parker’s a doll. Charlene’s
doing well; Scotty is spoiling the shit out of her. Glynis is gonna give hers up for
adoption. Nobody knows what Barbara Jean
is going to do. Iliya won’t talk about
it, but I happen to have it on good authority that she and cutie-pie Chekov are
in counseling.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Have
you heard if it was helping?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Not
yet. I hardly see Iliya now. She’s hiding out, I swear. But if I hear anything, you know I’ll keep
you posted.” Koko smiled wickedly.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana
smiled back. Of course she would. Koko was better than the Starfleet <i>Herald</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
and Gaila stood at the door of Nyota’s quarters and Irish sounded the
chime. A moment later, the door opened
and they were greeted by Dez. Irish’s
face lit up when she saw her.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Dez?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Irish?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gaila
smiled to herself as they shared a hug.
Clearly, her best friend liked the lovely Bajoran, and when they beamed
down to base housing for the night, she was going to grill Irish on everything
that happened between them. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish’s
eyes were bright and her face expressed a question that Dez was able to answer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We
can talk later. Nyota’s in bed. Come on in.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
is she doing?” Gaila asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Today’s
been pretty good, but she really isn’t doing so well. I mean, who would be? She’s trying to cope, but she needs
time. She wanted that baby in the worst
way. They all did.” Dez didn’t need to elaborate, for it was
obvious to Gaila and Irish who <i>they</i>
were. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Come
with me,” she said, and they followed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
asked, “Has she heard from her parents?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dez
clucked her teeth. “Not her mother, and
thank goodness for small favors. I do know
that the captain received a message from her father, but Nyota doesn’t know
about it yet. He mentioned it to me
because he asked me to stay with her when he and the commander had to report to
the starbase.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Have
they been away for long?” Gaila asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No. As a matter of fact, Pike called them away
early this morning. The captain knows
that Nyota’s my friend, and he sought me out to ask me to stay with her. Neither of them wanted to leave her, but when
duty calls, we all have to answer. We’re
in her quarters because she doesn’t want to be in theirs when they are not
there.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
and Gaila nodded. Irish asked, “Is her
father coming to see her?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dez
shrugged. “I think so, but I don’t know
for sure. The captain didn’t go into
details. I think he mentioned it only
because it could happen. I really don’t
know.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Well,
it doesn’t matter,” Irish said. “We’re
here. We’re her family too.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Good. She needs that more than anything.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gaila
and Irish followed Dez to Nyota’s room.
She was sitting up in bed, arms wrapped around her legs. Dez knocked on Nyota’s doorframe. Her friends could tell immediately that she’d
been crying.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyo?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She
looked up. When she saw her best
friends, her face glowed with happiness and sadness. Immediately, Gaila and Irish went to Nyota
and they embraced. Dez smiled and left
the room.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
are you doing, honey? I mean, I feel
dumb asking that considering, but I don’t know what else to ask.” Gaila said.
“I feel like I need to say something.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’m
trying to deal with it,” Nyota said. “I’m
trying, but…” She struggled to keep her
tears in check, but a few of them escaped anyway. She felt as if she’d cried an ocean of tears,
and she wasn’t alone in her grief. Nyota
was aware that Kirk also shed tears, but he, being the adorable man he was,
wanted to be strong for her. She knew
that he cried in front of Spock, but Kirk could never hide the evidence of his
grief from her. She knew him too
well. Spock was strong enough for both
of them, but she could feel Spock’s grief through their link and knew that Kirk
could as well, which made it all the sadder.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She
swiped at the tears that dribbled down her cheeks with a wayward hand. “Jim and Spock and I have been together since
it happened; we have been afforded a measure of privacy, but you know how
Starfleet is…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Indeed,
babe,” Irish said. “Suckers.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gaila
nodded. “Assholes is more like it.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
held their hands and continued. “It’s
not easy. I’ve been crying almost
nonstop. I lost my baby. We lost our baby.” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It
was as if uttering the words in front of her best friends caused the dam to
break…<i>again</i>. Nowadays, any tiny reminder set her off. She had not been able to accept the company
of Charlene, Dana, Tina or Koko, even though they had offered their support.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
and Gaila wrapped their arms around Nyota and cried with her. Irish, not one for tears, choked out, “Nyota,
I’m so sorry, honey. I should have <i>never</i> encouraged you to talk to your
mother.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After
some time and a torrent of wet snotty tissues, Nyota sighed. “It’s okay, Irish. You were right to do so.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Do
you think that you’ll ever speak to her again?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No. And I don’t want to. She made her position perfectly clear.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“What
about your father?” Gaila asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
don’t know,” Nyota said. “I don’t know
if he knows what happened. I haven’t
spoken to anyone in my family.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
and Gaila embraced Nyota again. “Honey,
you’ve got us. Family doesn’t always
have to be blood. It can be whoever you
choose it to be. You’ve got us, Dez, and
two fabulous men in your life and I know we’ll help you get through this,”
Gaila said. “We’ll help all three of you
if you want.” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There
was a very long pause. Nyota pulled out
of their embrace and looked at Irish.
“As bad as this sounds, I was waiting for you to say something raunchy,
Irish. Your timing is always perfect in
that respect. Especially when it comes
to Jim and Spock.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Aw,
<i>lachia</i>,” Irish said, wiping her face
and giggling. “For once in my life, I
didn’t want to be inappropriate.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gaila
rolled her tear-filled eyes. “Nyo, it
takes a tragedy for <i>that</i> skanch to be
inappropriate. But laughter through
tears is the best emotion, I think.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Well,
if that’s our goal, I can get a raunchy comment in here somewhere,” Irish said,
smiling at her friends.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
smiled back. And then, just like they
used to do back in the Academy, all three lay down together and Gaila and Irish
comforted their best friend just by being there.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Later,
they were sitting at Nyota’s small table and Irish and Gaila were trying to
convince her to eat. Dez sent word to
Irish through a text message that she wasn’t eating and it was something that
worried Kirk and Spock. Gaila had
replicated some sort of weird-looking native broth that she swore had superb
healing properties. Irish looked
horrified at the bowl of bright green soup with large orange things floating in
it and made a face at Gaila, but did her part to help her friend.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyota,
I will spoon-feed this stuff to you if you don’t do it yourself,” Irish said. “We gotta get you up and about, honey. You’ve got to heal.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’m
not hungry, Irish,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“<i>Meklat</i>, we didn’t ask you if you were
hungry. In fact, we’re not going to ask
you anything in regards to your overall health.
Irish and I owe it to Jim and to Spock to take care of you when they’re
not here.” Gaila said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“To
be perfectly honest, you owe it to <i>us</i>,
Nyo,” Irish said. “Had it not been for
Gaila and me encouraging you that night at the bar, you wouldn’t be with them
now.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
looked at her friend and smiled weakly.
Irish had a point.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
stirred the soup as Gaila brought Nyota something to drink in a large mug. “So eat, honey. Will you try at least a bite?” Then she frowned. “Gaila, what in the hell is
this shit?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“<i>Oyumos-nakti</i>,” Gaila said. “My grandmother used to make it for me when I
was sick. It always made me feel better,
inside and out. It’ll work for you, Nyo. Please?” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
took the spoon and took a large sip of the green and orange soup. Her face brightened and she took another
sip. Irish eyed her. “Well I’ll be a whore in church! It works.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You
already are,” Gaila said as she started brushing Nyota’s hair. “Never doubt the power of an Orion, honey.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
couldn’t help but chuckle. Irish beamed
at her. “What have we here? Is that a smile, <i>lachia</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
guess,” she said. She stared at her
friends, as if really seeing them for the first time. “You came to see me,” she said. “How did you even know?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
held her hand and examined her fingernails.
“Jim told us. He sent word not
too long after it happened.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
closed her eyes, feeling her heart swell with love for Kirk. Seeing Irish and Gaila enter her room had
lifted her spirits in a way she had not thought possible. It did not take away the pain of losing her
baby, but it was good having her best friends there with her. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
long can you stay?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
long do you need us to stay, Nyota?”
Irish asked. “I’ve got a ton of
leave saved up.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“As
do I,” Gaila said. “I get what I need on
board my starship; I don’t need to use my leave for it.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
don’t want you to use all your leave on me.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gaila
made a tsking sound. “Nyota,
please. Irish and I are here for
you. For whatever you need, <i>meklat</i>.
Anything. We’re staying in
temporary housing on the starbase.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
love you guys,” Nyota said, wiping her eyes again. “I wish I could stop crying.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Why?” Irish asked, smearing a tear on her own
cheek. “Nyota, you had a miscarriage a
week ago. You cry as much as you have
to. And you don’t have to cry alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
haven’t been,” she said. Spock didn’t
cry, but Kirk did. The night she
miscarried, they held on to each other and she and Kirk had openly sobbed over
the loss of their baby. Since then, he
had not cried in her presence. Spock
secured them both. She knew that Kirk
was practically inconsolable, but was able to compartmentalize in order to do
his duty and that Spock would be by his side at every moment. She was grateful for that. “I wasn’t the only one to lose my child.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Just
take things one day at a time,” Gaila advised.
“I’d advise that of the three of you.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
nodded. “I don’t know what else to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Irish
looked at her hands. “I do. Your hands are a mess. Let me give you a manicure.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Later,
they were sitting on Nyota’s small couch in her sitting room in companionable
silence. Gaila continued to brush her
hair until it shone like polished obsidian and Irish was filing her ragged
fingernails when Dez came in.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Sorry
to interrupt,” Dez said, flicking a brief glance at Irish. “Nyota, your father is here.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">______________________________</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>A/N: And this is where I lost the muse. I apologize. If I'm ever able to regain it for this story, I'll finish it. But it has been 3 years, and I don't think that's going to happen.</i><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-13335255684274113172013-02-01T20:59:00.000-08:002013-02-01T20:59:10.554-08:00What You Owe Me (6)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6. Mother’s Baby Girl<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">A/N:
WARNING!!! THIS CHAPTER CONTAINS
RACIAL AND HOMOPHOBIC SLURS AND INSULTS</span></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">. If you have issues with bigotry or racism or
any of those qualifiers, <b>then don’t read
this chapter</b>. This chapter is <b>not<u>
</u></b>for the sensitive or faint of heart.<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
was in the bathroom, throwing up. She
was bent over the toilet, retching until tears sparked her eyes. Kirk was beside her, holding her hair out of
her face while Spock stood with a damp towel and a glass of water. Each time she vomited, Kirk looked at Spock
and there was no doubt about the worry in his blue eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When
she was done, Kirk helped her to her feet and Spock wiped her face before
giving her the water. She rinsed her
mouth and spat and then pressed the towel to her cheeks. Spock poured her a cup of mouthwash and then
diluted it with water so that it wouldn’t burn her throat. Nyota took the mouthwash and rinsed her mouth
once more. She looked in the
mirror. Her skin was splotchy in places,
she had a terrible headache and her belly hurt.
The baby was not having a good day. Nyota had been besieged with weird stomach
cramps all morning and afternoon. She
wanted to curl up in bed, but she was determined to get the confrontation with
her mother over and done with.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyota,
we don’t have to do this,” Kirk said in an effort to reassure her. “We don’t ever have to do it. We’ve have each other; no one else matters.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
am inclined to agree,” Spock said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No,”
she said after she caught her breath.
“No. I will not be afraid of her.
I am not ashamed of us. All I can
do is try. I owe that to myself. If she denies me and rejects my baby, then it
won’t be because I didn’t try. I need to
meet her halfway. If she can’t do the
same, then she will lose me and she’ll have to live with that.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
know,” he said, helping her back to the bedroom. “But you’re not well. You’re not.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’m
pregnant, Jim. I guess I’ll be one of
those women who are sick the whole time. It’s not unusual, according to the prenatal
manuals I’ve downloaded. It just makes
our baby that much more special. We’ll
be all right.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Still,”
Kirk said, “it’s not imperative that you speak with your mother about us. I haven’t spoken to my mother in seven years
and I haven’t missed one iota of sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Jim,
what is the deal with you and your mother?
You never talk about your family.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Because
you’re my family, Nyota. You and
Spock.” Kirk cast a loving glance at
Spock, who stared back. Only Nyota and
Kirk recognized it to be an expression of tenderness.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
know,” she said. “But your mother is
your mother, as mine is mine. What
happened?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You
sure you want to hear this before you talk to your mother? I mean, it’s not exactly a happy family
saga.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Neither
is mine. Nor is Spock’s. Remember?
We’re well-suited. Tell us,
Jim. Please?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Jim,
I admit that I have always been curious about your relationship with your
mother,” Spock said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kirk
sighed. “All right.” He sat down and Nyota sat between him and
Spock. Like always, they began rubbing
her belly. She leaned her head against
the top of the couch and sighed, closing her eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Do
you want to take a nap?” Spock said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No. I want to hear Jim’s story,” Nyota said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
would prefer that you get some rest, Nyota,” Spock said. “It is not necessary that you do this now.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Spock,
please? It’s okay. Jim?”
She turned her eyes to Kirk, who gazed back at her with devotion
brimming in his cerulean blue eyes.
Nyota smiled at him and kissed his nose.
“We’re waiting.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Well,
you’re aware that my father died saving the <i>Kelvin
</i>the moment I was born. Anyway, my
mother remarried six months or so after she returned to Earth with me. She married my dad’s brother. I was always under the impression that she
and my father were deeply in love, based on what some of their crewmates told
me. A few of them relocated to Iowa
after the destruction of the <i>Kelvin </i>to
work in the shipyard<i>.</i> They were
surprised that my mother remarried so quickly, and when I was old enough to
understand their shock at <i>who</i> she
married, things began to change between my mother and me. She had another baby with my
stepfather/uncle, and it was my younger brother that had her attention. She completely forgot about my older brother
Sam and me. I reminded her too much of
my dad and she could barely look at me, or so she said. I find it that ironic because my dad’s
brother looked just like him, according to the family photo album.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
and Spock looked at Kirk. Spock was the
first to speak. “That is illogical,
Jim. Genetics dictate that your father
and your uncle will share some physical characteristics, not all. They were not twins.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kirk
rendered a soft smile to Spock and shook his head. “You’re a dingus, but I love you no matter
what, Spock. Just stay with me, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
caressed Spock’s hand. “What Jim means,
baby, is that his mother had no real reason to dislike him, and that he was
suspicious of her relationship with his uncle.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Spock
raised an eyebrow. “They were married.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Yes,”
Nyota said, “but the true question is <i>when</i>
did their relationship begin? Was it
while she was married to Jim’s father?
At least that’s what I’m thinking.
Am I right, Jim?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Yes,”
he said. “I could never believe a word
she said once I understood. Since she was quite happy with my baby brother and
her new husband, I felt that I didn’t have a place in her life. Sam felt the same way. So we started doing whatever we wanted to do.
I did whatever I could to piss both of them off. Sam ran away as soon as he could and I never
saw him again.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kirk
paused a moment and looked away, thinking about what became of his older
brother. Nyota and Spock squeezed his
hand and it brought him back to the present.
He gave them a wan smile and continued.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“It
got so bad that running a car off a cliff was the only way I could get her
attention. That didn’t work. Then I just
stopped giving a damn. My stepfather
beat me regularly until the day came when I was able to fight back. I put him in the hospital and my mother told
me she never wanted to see me again. I
was cool with that.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“That
is most unfortunate, <i>t’hy’la</i>,” Spock
said, rubbing Kirk’s hand. “I am sorry.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
am too, baby,” Nyota said. “Your mother
is as bad as mine, it seems. Only
Spock’s relationship with his mother was any good.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Yeah,”
Kirk said. “So now you know, and now you
understand how important it is for us to be a family and be good parents to our
son.” He stared at the small pouch that
was Nyota’s belly. “And we <i>will</i> be good parents. I’d rather not have Jim Jr. go through what I
went through.” He grinned at Nyota’s
pooch.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
smiled weakly. “Daughter, and we can
negotiate on the name, you fool.” She
rubbed her stomach. “Well, let’s get
this over and done with, all right?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Are
you sure,” Kirk asked. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’m
sure. Irish is right. I need to do this now and get it over with,
no matter what the outcome is.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kirk
took a seat beside her and grabbed her hand.
“Are you sure?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She
stared at him and smiled. “I’m
sure. Spock, come sit next to me. I can’t do this without you or Jim.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Spock
nodded and sat next to Nyota. “As you
wish, but I must insist that you end the conversation the moment you become
stressed.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Spock,
knowing my mother, that will take place two seconds into the conversation. I will be fine. I will be.
I just need for you and Jim to prepare to be insulted.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How
bad do you think it will be, Nyota?”
Kirk asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She
looked at him. “Bad. When we finally graduated from the Academy,
Irish and Gaila were taking pictures with me in the corridor just outside of
the arena when my family came up. My
mother took one look at Gaila and asked me, “’What is <i>that</i>?’”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You
mean, ‘Who is that?’” Spock said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No. I mean, ‘What is that? That green thing.’ I was horrified at her words. She refused to acknowledge Gaila as a
humanoid and reduced her to an object.
Gaila didn’t even understand at first because it was so quick. Then my mother asked, ‘Is it contagious? Have you been associating with that thing all
this time?’ Gaila looked at me and I
apologized on behalf of my mother, but I didn’t blame her for walking
away. Then my mom called Irish a
half-breed and Irish left right after Gaila did. I was beyond ashamed. I didn’t speak to my mother at all when we
had dinner later. Bad enough that she
detested the fact that I chose a career in outer space, but to have her insult
my best friends…Were it not for my father, I would not have stayed for the
meal. I’d rather have been with my
friends than with her.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Jesus,
what a bitch,” Kirk said, shaking his head.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“So
prepare for the worst. It’s best to do
that. You’ll be called every pejorative
term in the lexicon, as will Spock. I’ll
be called a few names too. So will our
baby. It’s not going to be pretty, but
if we get it out of the way now, it’s done.
It’s over and there’s no need to worry or wonder about what’s going to
happen. I will know where I stand.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyota,”
Spock said, looking into her eyes. “Are
you prepared to separate yourself from your mother? Are you prepared to lose her? If what you are saying is correct, she will
not want to associate with you once you tell her about our relationship and
your pregnancy. Is it worth it, <i>k’diwa</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You
and Jim and our baby are worth everything, Spock. I just need this to be over with.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyota,
let me stress this,” Kirk said. “The
moment I feel like Mrs. Uhura has gone too far, I’m ending the
conversation. I will endure it for as
long as possible, but there are lines I won’t let her cross. Do you understand?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
caressed his cheek. “I do. I understand, Jim. It probably won’t even last that long.” She winced as another cramp hit her. Kirk eyed her, but chose not to respond. He knew how stubborn his beloved Nyota could
be at times.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Okay
then,” Kirk said, switching on the viewscreen.
“Let’s do this.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
decided at the last minute to have Kirk and Spock stand off to the side of the
viewscreen so that she could face her parents alone at first. They would wait for her to call them over.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mr.
& Mrs. Uhura sat on a loveseat in their opulent living room. Nyota’s mother was a beautiful, older version
of herself. Her salt and pepper hair was
stylishly cut and she had a regal air.
Mr. Uhura sat next to her. He had
a kind, round face and his hair was almost completely white. He was the first to speak.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyota!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Momma? Daddy?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Baby
girl,” her father said, smiling broadly.
“How are you doing? It’s been a
few months since we’ve heard from you.
Everything okay, honey?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Nyota,
how are you?” Mrs. Uhura said. There was
barely a note of warmth in her tone.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’m
fine,” she replied. “Just busy. There’s been a lot going on—“<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Kwasi
is divorced,” Mrs. Uhura announced. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
sighed. Of course her mother would bring
up Kwasi. “What?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Kwasi,”
Mr. Uhura said, casting a sideways glance at his wife. “You know, the Obus’ son. He has separated from his wife.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
closed her eyes in frustration. “Well,
um…that’s good, I guess,” she said. “But
I was contacting you to tell you—“<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Kwasi
has asked about you, Nyota. Like, when
are you returning to Earth? I reminded
him that he should have never married that slutty Barasa girl—”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Mother!”
Nyota said, her voice a little shrill.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs.
Uhura looked startled. “Nyota, you do
not speak to me in that tone of voice!
What are those fools teaching you in outer space?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Momma,
I’m trying to tell you something!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“What
is it, baby girl?” Mr. Uhura said. He looked scared. “Are you all right?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Stop
trying to say it and say it,” Mrs. Uhura said.
“I don’t have all day, Nyota.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
sighed and motioned for Kirk and Spock to enter the viewscreen window. “I’m in love.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“With
who?” Mrs. Uhura frowned. “Because it isn’t with Kwasi Obu.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Daddy,
Momma…this is Captain Jim Kirk of the USS <i>Enterprise</i>
and First Officer Commander Spock. Also
of the <i>Enterprise</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mr.
Uhura sat back in his chair, his mouth a small ‘O’ of surprise. It was evident that Nyota’s father instantly
understood the situation. Mrs. Uhura
blinked rapidly, as if she misheard her daughter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I’m
in love with Jim and with Spock and we are in a committed relationship. We’ve been together for almost three years
now. They saved my life that time I told
you about…when I was kidnapped a couple of years back.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Silence. If it wasn’t for the fact that her mother’s expression
resembled that of a captured fish, Nyota would have assumed that the
transmission froze.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Momma? Daddy?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Well,”
Mr. Uhura said, linking his fingers.
“Well, Nyota…give your father a bit of time to let that sink in. I mean, I didn’t know what to expect when you
contacted us, but…just give me a minute.
I’m not sure I fully understand.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
knew that wasn’t the case. He was merely
shocked at the news. “No Daddy, you
do. I’m in love with both of these
men. I have been for three years.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Um,
do they know about each other?” Mr.
Uhura asked, not realizing the stupidity of the question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Yes
sir,” Kirk said. “Mr. Uhura, I am in love
with your daughter, as is Mr. Spock. I
assure you that her happiness is first and foremost in our lives.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Aren’t
there regulations against this sort of thing, Captain?” Mr. Uhura looked incredulous.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“No
sir. We’ve researched them
thoroughly. Our relationship is
sanctioned by Starfleet.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mr.
Uhura blinked rapidly. “Mr. Kirk, is
it?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Yes
sir, Mr. Uhura.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You’ll
understand if I take a minute to process what I’ve just heard. I mean, this is a bit much for me to
take. I’ll be right back, Nyota. Don’t disconnect beforehand, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“All
right, Daddy,” she said. She began to
fidget. Kirk and Spock took a hand each
and held it. They knew the real trouble
was coming.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs.
Uhura leaned to one side and propped her chin in one perfectly manicured hand. “Three years you’ve been carrying on like
this?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
stared her mother in the eyes. She was
not going to be afraid. “Yes.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Then
that means that you’ve had three years to regain your senses!” Mrs. Uhura snapped. “What the hell are you doing with those <i>White</i> men? What kind of foolishness have you gotten
yourself into? And from what I
understand, one of them isn’t even fully White!
He’s Vulcan—an alien! He’s not
even <i>that</i>. He’s worse than that! He’s a half-breed! He probably has no clue as
to what he is! And you’re in love with a
<i>mutt</i>?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Mrs.
Uhura—“ Kirk began, but she cut him off.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“<i>Captain</i>, is it? Let’s get this straight: I don’t give a damn who you are. I am speaking with my daughter, not you. Do not ever interrupt me again. Nyota!
What does that Vulcan's people think of him breeding with a human?!
After all, he's supposed to be preserving HIS race, not shacking up with some
human woman! They probably don’t want
him either because he’s already impure.
I guess he needed to follow in his daddy’s footsteps and fuck a human
girl. By the way, I've heard about that
so-called captain of yours. Oh yes, I
did my research when you told me what starship you were assigned to! Your captain has fucked EVERYTHING in this
galaxy that has a hole! The only reason
why he fucked you was because he hadn't had any black snatch! But you’ve taken care of <i>that</i>, haven’t you? You’ve
let him and that green-blooded mutt get all the black pussy they want!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“To
hell with this shi—“ Kirk started to say but
Nyota grabbed his hand. Kirk was
halfway tempted to tell that woman that he had already slept his way through
the proverbial rainbow on Earth and several other planets. It would have righteously pissed off Mrs.
Uhura, but Kirk doubted it would have eased the confrontation. He did admit to himself that it would have
been excellent to see the look on Mrs. Uhura’s face.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
held her stomach as another cramp seized her.
“Momma, it does not matter what color they are or what blood is in their
veins. I’m in love with these men. I could care less about the pigmentation of
their skin or the color of their blood.
I’m in love with both of them regardless of stupid things like
that. I don’t appreciate you insulting
the two men I love just because you’re racist!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Oh
this is just rich,” Mrs. Uhura said, rolling her eyes. “What’s really going on, Ny? What, are they curious as to what it’s like
to fuck an African girl? What are you,
some experiment or fun and games? Don’t you
know what White men really think of Black women? You aren’t anything except a piece of ass
just to satisfy their curiosity! Then
when you’re used up, they marry White women or go back to their White trophy
wives. They aren’t interested in
anything but what it’s like to get between your legs, and you’ve not only let
one of them do it, but <i>two</i>! How dare you betray your family like this? How dare you betray and insult <i>me</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Momma--!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs.
Uhura cocked her head to one side. “Am I
to understand that you are sleeping with both of them? Are they sleeping with each other?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kirk
started to say something but Nyota squeezed his hand as she blinked back
tears. There was no point in saying
anything else. It was best to let her
rant, because her mind was made up.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"THAT
IS SICK! THEY’RE SLEEPING WITH YOU AND
EACH OTHER? <i>SHARING</i> YOU?! I DIDN’T RAISE YOU TO BE A FAG HAG OR A
WHORE, NYOTA SAMANYA UHURA!! Do you think
you really have a serious relationship with either of those men? This is just some weird sex game to them, and
it’s more likely that they’d rather be with each other than with <i>you</i>!!
You're no more than a toy, a plaything…I cannot <i>believe</i> this! Is <i>this</i> what you called to tell me? Believe me; I’d rather you not have
bothered! Is that <i>all</i>, Nyota?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Large
tears coursed down Nyota’s cheeks. Spock
held one hand in a clench and her knuckles were white from Kirk’s death
grip. “No,” she said. “I’m pregnant.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Silence. Nyota’s heart was racing and her stomach
churned. Her belly was already hurting,
but now it was as if someone was wrenching her guts.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“<i>Pregnant</i>? Did you just tell me that you are pregnant?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
swallowed. “Yes.” She felt feverish.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Do
I even need to ask which one of those nasty White boys knocked you up?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Momma—“<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Just
what kind of mixed-breed bastard were you planning on bringing into this world,
Nyota Samanya Uhura? You know, your father
named you right! Unknown one? You are certainly that right now, young
lady! My unknown daughter!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You
can’t even…you can’t even have an open mind about this, Momma? Do you know what you’re doing? I’m having a child…your grandchild…isn’t that
what you always said you wanted me to do, Momma?” Nyota knew the answer, but it was best to let
all the poison escape from this particular boil. It would eventually heal, but the scar would
always be there. She knew that after
this, she would never speak to her mother again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I
expected you to have an <i>African</i>
grandchild, Nyota! I wanted you to give me beautiful African grandbabies with
Kwasi Obu. I could have accepted
grandbabies with any decent <i>Black</i> man
you chose for a husband. That thing
you’re carrying is NOT my grandchild.
You’re not even <i>married</i>!” This last was an epithet.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kirk
had heard enough. “Mrs. Uhura, I’m not
about to sit here and let you insult Nyota like this…and for the record, we are
getting married as soon as Nyota feels up to it.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Excuse
me,” Mrs. Uhura said coolly. “I told you
that this is between MY daughter and me, but since you insist on inserting
yourself into this conversation, let me tell you this: You White men can say anything you want, but
it is what you DO that counts! You have
no intention of doing right by my daughter.
Look at what you’ve done to her already, you nasty, dirty little White faggot!” She sneered at Spock, whose eyebrows were
raised. “And you, you filthy
green-blooded mutt…I have no words for <i>you</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs.
Uhura turned back into her daughter.
“It’s all fun and games now, Nyota!
But you'll be bringing a REAL
life into the world and SOON! Once that kid is reality, they'll both be gone and
you’re going to be stuck with some pathetic half-breed bastard that you’re
going to have to raise alone. And you <i>will</i> raise it alone, Nyota Samanya
Uhura, because I will not help you. I
refuse to have anything to do with that thing you’re carrying! Wait until I tell your father!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A
sharp pain bent Nyota double. She grabbed
her stomach and started to moan.
Alarmed, Kirk leaned over her.
“Nyota, what is it? What is
it…what’s the matter?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs.
Uhura was still speaking, but her words were meaningless gibberish as far as
Kirk was concerned. He was so mad he
shook. Spock was furious too, if the
pale green splotches in his cheeks were any indication. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
threw up on her shoes. She tried to get
up; could not, and would have fallen were it not for Spock supporting her. She was crying and her breath came in hard
chuffs. She held her stomach and her
face contorted in pain. Something was
very wrong.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“What’s
wrong with you, Nyota?” Mrs. Uhura said.
“What’s the ma—“<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Spock turned off the viewscreen, cutting her off
in mid-sentence.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nyota
looked at Kirk and Spock. Her dark eyes
were wide and glassy. The world started
to swim. “Jim,” she said. “Spock…my stomach hurts! The baby…!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Spock
and Kirk tried to get her to the bed.
Kirk slapped his communicator and screamed for McCoy to get to his
quarters immediately. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another
sharp cramp bent Nyota double once more and she started screaming as she held
her belly. “No! No, please…no! NOOOOOOOOO!”
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That
was when Spock and Kirk noticed the blood running down her legs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5353276448671349808.post-5678926096212469152013-01-31T12:24:00.001-08:002013-01-31T12:39:52.119-08:00What You Owe Me (5)<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">5. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Happiness is a Temporary State of Mind</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk,
Spock, Scotty and McCoy wandered through the building areas of the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Enterprise</i>, supervising the construction
process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kirk granted rotating shore
leave and had all crew members who resided on Deck D move into temporary
housing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of Deck D was going to be
restructured into family quarters with a day care center and an area that would
serve as an eventual school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spock
thought it was logical to include space for a school and Kirk felt it was a
wise decision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Medical Bay was also
under reconstruction to include the pediatric wing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kirk already secured a family psychologist,
two OB-GYNs, a pediatrician and five pediatric nurses for duty on board the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Enterprise</i>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
senior officers stopped in front of C wing on Deck D.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kirk stared absently at the welders and
builders as they knocked out walls and restructured rooms into family quarters.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Gentlemen,
did any of you ever think we’d be in this position?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three years into our five-year mission and we
are all about to be fathers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Honestly, I
never thought I’d be a dad so soon.” </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Scotty
was the first to respond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nay, Cap’n.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neither did I.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Of
course not,” McCoy said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is my
second time around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never thought I’d
be a dad again.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
remained silent as Kirk continued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re
all going to be fathers, guys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are we
going to be able to handle this adjustment?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do I assume that you are willing to remain on board this ship in spite
of the decisions that may be made by the mothers of your children?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“’Lena’s
goin’ tae keep our baby, Cap’n.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An’ she
dinnae want tae leave <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">t’Enterprise</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>T’is means I’ll be stayin’ ‘ere as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nae gonna leave my wee littl’un.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t run this ship without you, Scotty.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
know ye cain’t, sir.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
snorted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You can’t get rid of me that
easily, Jim.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
stood with his arms folded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It will be
an adjustment for all of us, Captain.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
watched the blue glare of the laser weld.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Understatement of the century, Spock.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I missed out on so many years
with Joanna.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t tell you how much
it hurts me to be away from my little girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>By the time I see her again, she’ll be almost fourteen years old.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no mistaking the sadness in McCoy’s
voice.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You really want your
baby, don’t you?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Yes
I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, we all know that this
wasn’t something intentional.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tina and
I, we were just messing around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like
her a lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s a terrific lady; she’s
sexy, pretty, witty and silly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s a
lot of fun and she’s great in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve
been on and off for months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know she’s
pissed, but I want my child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
know what it’ll take to convince her to keep it, but I’ll do what I must.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
nodded, wondering if Bones was being completely truthful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You were okay with the fact that she had a
girlfriend?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
looked at Kirk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You just asked me if I
had a problem with her being with Sharayne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hell no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She let me watch a
couple of times and Sharayne was cool with it.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Scotty
slapped him on the arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good on ye, lad!”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
cleared his throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fascinating.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
grinned, nodding his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hot</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t know she got down like that.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“She’s
full of surprises,” McCoy said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
paused for a moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a
thoughtful expression on his face. “But I’ll be damned if I miss the chance to
be a father again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t let that
happen.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You’ve
got a fight on your hands,” Kirk said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“McElroy’s pissed off.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
chuckled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Rather have my problem than
Sulu’s.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">All
of the men nodded simultaneously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scotty
shook his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Can’t believe the lad
got ‘imself caught up like t’at.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two
lasses?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
looked at Scotty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ms. Thornton is no
lass, Mr. Scott.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her reputation precedes
her.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Once
again, there were simultaneous nods from the officers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scotty snorted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nae, she t’isnt, is she?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Not
at all,” Kirk said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Still a babe,
though.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
looked at Kirk and Spock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How’s Lt.
Uhura?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Great,”
Kirk said, grinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no
denying the pleasure on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She
gets more beautiful with each passing day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her belly is…well, at the risk of sounding like an obsessive goofball,
it’s adorable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find myself kissing it
a lot and Spock and I rub it all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She isn’t having an easy
pregnancy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate that she’s sick so
much. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She hasn’t been able to keep down
a meal in weeks. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was not aware that
the replicators were so adept at making saltine crackers and ginger ale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s about all she is able to handle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really want her on full bed rest, but I
know she would hate it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She insists that
she’s able to work at least a half-shift.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">While
grounded, the crew of the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Enterprise</i>
maintained SOP.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota could reasonably
take time off work, but she was adamant about her duty and determined to work a
half-shift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She usually did it with a
trash can nearby, as she suffered from nausea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was not alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dana Hannity
suffered also.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
frowned, thinking about that argument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He and Spock tried to convince Nyota that it was plausible for her to
take some time off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was determined
that she could work a full shift, but lost the argument when she threw up on
Spock’s shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that, Spock
scheduled her for half-shifts every other day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was only a matter of time before the Kirk got McCoy to order Nyota to
take her maternity leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thought he
might do it this week; this morning had been particularly bad and she was
unable to go to work at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He and
Spock would do anything to keep Nyota happy, but in this case, they would
sacrifice it for the sake of her health and the baby’s health.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
smiled at his friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You don’t sound
like a goofball, Jim.” McCoy said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You
sound like a man ready to become a father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s perfectly normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never
would have thought it of you, Jim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never
would have guessed that my advice for you to man up in order to win her heart
would lead to this.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Aye,”
Scotty said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“T’is a sight tae behold.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Well,
Spock’s going to become a father too, let’s not forget,” Kirk said.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Left
field, that,” McCoy said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But the
sentiment is no different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do you
feel about becoming a father, Mr. Spock?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
anticipate it logically, Dr. McCoy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am
pleased that Lt. Uhura is with child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unexpected, yes, but welcome all the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parenting is not something that is capricious
to Vulcans.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Scotty
hesitated before blurting out, “Which of ye is tae father, Cap’n?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean no disrespect, but I cannae help me
curiosity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beggin’ ye pardon, sir.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
held up a hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No offense taken,
Scotty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re all friends here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neither Spock nor I are certain as to who
fathered Nyota’s baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either he did or
I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re both supremely confident
that there isn’t another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t
matter because we are both going to be a father to this child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Genetics aren’t an issue with us.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grinned and the tips of Spock’s ears
flushed green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Besides, I’m not about
to waste Bones’ valuable time with a paternity test during all of this
madness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s gotta do one on Barbara Jean
at some point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sulu’s starting to drop
hints that he isn’t the father either.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
shook his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t get Ms.
Thornton to come in for the test.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
screams that there is more going on than what she has said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m starting to think that neither Sulu nor
Timmons is the father of her child.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Scotty
stared at the construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Aye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scuttlebutt ‘as it t’at she became wi’ child
on shore leave too.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
snorted again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well, that would make
her situation no different from Sgt. Yubari, Sgt. Davis & Lt. Quinn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nurse Chapel tells me that they all hate each
other and Barbara Jean would rather lay her child’s paternity at the foot of an
unsuspecting officer rather than own up to her own loose behavior while we were
on shore leave.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
said, “Regardless, she’ll have to get a paternity test at some point if she wants
the benefits.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he gazed at the
construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I never thought I’d
witness this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A family-friendly galaxy-class
battle ship.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Times,
they are a’changin’,” McCoy said.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
looked at McCoy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Fascinating
reference.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Well,
it was eventual, wasn’t it?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>McCoy
said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There was bound to be a time when
Starfleet could no longer ignore the family dynamic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s hard to get a man or woman to sign up
for five-year missions when they’re going to be separated from their children
for such a long period of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I had
a better custody arrangement with my bitch of an ex wife, there is no way I
would have signed up for a mission in deep space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Starfleet can’t expect for couples to be
apart for that long and keep recruiting numbers up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Speaking of things that fall apart, when are
you marrying Lts. Hannity and Morrow?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not all relationships fall
apart, Bones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometime within the next
week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I forget.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On
cue, Spock said, “Three days, ten hours, five minutes and fifteen seconds from
now.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Scotty
chucked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ye’re better than an atomic
clock, Mr. Spock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>T’will be interestin’,
‘avin a married couple on board the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Enterprise</i>.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">McCoy
rolled his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Married couple?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try eight pregnant women, Scotty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s gonna be interesting.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
senior officers strolled down the corridor to monitor additional
construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They watched as the
workers smashed the walls of this section of crew quarters, obliterating
everything.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“How’s
the lad takin’ tae it, Cap’n?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scotty
asked.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">No
one needed to say who the lad was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
adjusted his goggles as he stared at the welders’ torches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“They’ve been ordered into counseling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I set that up as soon as we docked.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“To
the kid’s credit, he’s by her side for every prenatal visit,” McCoy said.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It
is my understanding that Ensign Chekov and Ensign Vadasconovich are frequently
engaged in vehement discourse.” Spock said.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Yeah,
I heard they fight a lot too,” McCoy retorted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What can you expect?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re
kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kids have no business trying to
have kids.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Scotty
tsked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Beggin’ ye pardon, Doctor, but
Chekov an’ his bonny lass dinnae plan t’is.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
know, McCoy said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Which makes it all
the sadder.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
looked at Spock for a moment before speaking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“They’re not going to stay together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This baby’s going to tear them apart.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">*</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
sat in front of the monitor in her quarters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Gaila and Irish, her best friends since the academy, were on a
conference call with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had not
spoken with them in months and it was refreshing to talk to them again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were stunned to find out that she was
pregnant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish,
blunt as usual, “You pregnant slut.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What are you going to do?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
rubbed her belly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Have the baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you mean?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Your
career?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“My
career is safe, Gaila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s just fine
for Jim and Spock and I to be together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No regulations have been violated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now the baby wasn’t planned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was a major screw-up with the computers in Medical and ten of us
got pregnant.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
cackled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We heard about THAT!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should have seen the medical staff
checking and double checking their equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They ran out of condoms in two days; I grabbed most of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dr. White doesn’t trust the replicator to
make more condoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Folks scared to have
sex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re docking at Starbase 223 just
because she wants to be sure that everything’s everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nobody on the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hood</i> wants to get knocked up.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Same
here,” Gaila said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Everybody’s
abstaining and it has put a serious dent in my love life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t blame them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i>
want kids.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Me
either,” Irish said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Shoot me.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Because neither of you are in
love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t plan to get pregnant so
soon, but now that I am…I want my child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jim wants the baby like you would not believe and Spock wants it just because.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Who’s
the father, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lachia</i>?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Irish asked.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not trying to find out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re all content with the hope that the baby
is healthy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been sick most of the
time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My morning sickness lasts all day
and it’s really painful at times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
really, really hate vomiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a
trash can by me right now just in case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I can no longer stand Jim and Spock’s body oil scents; they make me
throw up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My head hurts all the time and
sometimes my stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, my last
checkup revealed all was well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jim and
Spock are obsessed with my health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact, Jim would be upset if he came in and saw me out of bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He and Spock are so cute about the whole
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t want me to put a toe
out of line if I don’t feel like it.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You three just work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No other way to say it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You belong together.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Plus
it’s HOT,” Irish said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Captain Fine and
Commander Hotness…aw yeah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> would have made a baby with them back
in Kalamar.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
shook her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I would have thought
you’d have grown out of your sluttiness by now, Irish.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
clucked her teeth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wear my sluttiness like a badge of honor.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You tell your parents yet?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got to do it soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m three months pregnant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spock and Jim want me to do it when we’re all
together and we’ll have to do it over subspace channels because we’re
grounded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So it will not be as
devastating as it could be because I’m not physically there.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Won’t
make it any easier,” Irish said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
imagine your mother having a horse when you tell her you’re in love with a
Vulcan and a White man.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I know she didn’t like us and
we’re your <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">friends</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are you going to do, Nyo?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota’s mother had a few choice descriptors
for Gaila and Irish when Nyota introduced them at their graduation, and
graduates wasn’t one of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota was
embarrassed and angry by her mother’s rudeness and it colored the tone of the
celebratory family dinner.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
rubbed her belly again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t know,
Gaila.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do know that my life is with
Jim and Spock and our child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love my
mother…you know this…but I cannot and will not live without my men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t be anywhere where they’re not
welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she’s my mother and I owe
her the knowledge of her grandchild.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“That’s true, Nyo.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
hate it,” Nyota said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish I knew she could accept Spock and Jim
and accept my baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dad will, but my
brothers and my mother won’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve come
to understand that over the past few weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I wish I could say I hope I’m wrong, but I’m not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She’ll probably disown me.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Maybe
not, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">meklat</i>,” Gaila said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Maybe in time, she can accept all of
this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are her daughter.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
frowned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Gaila?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota, not to be the dark cloud in this, but
I seriously doubt that Mrs. Uhura will accept your relationship and your
baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What you owe yourself and what you
owe your child is of more import than what you owe your prejudiced mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sorry to be so blunt about it, but I
don’t want you thinking that suddenly this will all work itself out.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Irish was right and she knew
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The chances of her mother accepting
Jim and Spock and their child were in the negative percent.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A
moment passed and then Gaila said, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">We</i>
love you, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">meklat</i>!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Absolutely,”
Irish said and grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
gazed at her smiling girlfriends and smiled back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thanks.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
blew a kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well, I’ve got to run,
Nyo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I will be checking in with you
regularly!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to know everything,
everything about your little one!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
already know you’re wearing him or her well…you look so beautiful.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Thanks,”
Nyota said, pausing to spit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Unfortunately,
I don’t feel beautiful.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
stand corrected,” Gaila said, grinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“That was entirely unbeautiful and unsexy, Nyo.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
rolled her eyes at her green-skinned best friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“My tummy’s acting up again.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Yes,”
Irish said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve got to go too.” Then
she took a breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Um, Nyo, there’s an
officer that I met while you guys were on shore leave in Madir.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her name is Dez Niaz.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you know her?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Irish looked apprehensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We, um, hung out while I was stationed
there.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re good friends.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she paused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Dez is great, Irish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should contact her.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
gaped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You know?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Dez
told me.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Am I missing
something, ladies?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Tell her, Irish.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I had an affair with a woman on
the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Enterprise</i>, Gaila.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“WHAT?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
didn’t plan on it,” Irish said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But she
came up to me and next thing I know…and it lasted two weeks…and it was very
satisfying.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
was shocked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Irish, you slept with a
girl?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I KNEW you would eventually!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why deny yourself half of the universe’s
population, you slut?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
rolled her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Whatever, Gaila.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But there was an entirely different
expression on Irish’s face.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You like her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t you, Irish?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She was a lot of fun to be
with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never had that much fun with
anybody like that before.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
shook her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So contact her.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gaila
grinned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t tell me you’ve messed
around and fucked someone you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">like</i>,
Irish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have, don’t mess it
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call her.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Irish
sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“All right, I’ll call her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Okay, I gotta run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyo, keep us posted on the status of our
niece or nephew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call your mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go ahead and get it out of the way so that
you can go on with your life.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">*</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
base’s main conference room was decorated with a few flowers and a wedding
arch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dana didn’t want an elaborate
setup, as it wasn’t necessary and she didn’t want to waste her credits on
wedding finery when she and Parker had to shop for their baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a cute little pooch, but it was hid
under the simple A-line of her maternity tunic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was no formal pomp and circumstance; they met at the arch in front
of the captain and held hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Koko and
Tina stood beside her, and Parker was flanked by one of his friends from
Engineering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were about fifty
people in attendance and a reception was set up on one side of the room.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Tina
stared at the happy couple, but she saw many other things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She, like Dana, Charlene, Iliya, Nyota,
Janice and Glynis were all between three to four months pregnant and the window
for an abortion was rapidly closing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Leonard was a persistent bastard; every other day he was up in her face
trying to convince her to keep their child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tina was no longer as mad as she had been, but she was annoyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had since gotten over Sharayne’s betrayal
and was currently single; though she’d never been single <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet another
reason to be pissed with Leonard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wasn’t because hatred required too much energy and she was human enough to feel
compassion for his side of the equation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He missed Joanna and saw their baby as a second chance.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Tina
looked over at Koko, who was smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Koko and Marcy Quinn got abortions the moment the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Enterprise</i> docked at the starbase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tina was jealous of both of them for being able to execute such a
decision without thought of anyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was easy for them because there was no father fucking up the
works.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Glynis wasn’t going to abort, but
put her child up for adoption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
didn’t want to be a mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nobody knew
what Barbara Jean wanted to do.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Tina
wondered if she should do the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
if she was going to have the baby, she could easily give it to Leonard to
raise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wouldn’t have to put the kid
up for adoption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the physical act
of carrying the baby that was bothersome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All of them were besieged with some variation of morning sickness and
obvious fatigue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota had the worst of
it; she was sick all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Tina
rubbed her stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She, like the other
mothers-to-be, wore maternity uniforms and very comfortable shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Starfleet was more than accommodating to
their requests and sought to fulfill each and every one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The captain was also accommodating, which
made sense because his girlfriend was pregnant and it was no secret how much
the captain wanted the baby she carried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was harder to get a read on Commander Spock, but there was no doubt
that he wanted the baby as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tina
thought their relationship was nothing short of amazing.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She
glanced at Nyota.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat in the back of
the chapel with a wastebasket at her side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Commander Spock sat next to her and Tina knew that Nyota was sick
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her face was deathly pale and
she, like Janice, Charlene and Iliya, were prone to spitting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By comparison, Tina’s pregnancy was fairly
easy outside of the morning sickness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Leonard was determined to care for her and Tina found she didn’t mind
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was too exhausted by the end of
her shift to want to do anything more than fall into bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It certainly stopped their arguing.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
captain pronounced Dana and Parker man and wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The audience applauded as they kissed and
turned to face their friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tina and
Koko stepped forward to hug Dana and Parker and wish them well.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">*</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Back
in their quarters, Nyota was in the bathroom washing her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had been sick all morning, but was
determined to attend the wedding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, once the cadet servers began putting out the food, her stomach
lurched and Spock immediately hurried her out of the conference room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kirk would follow after he initiated the
first toast.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When
she exited the bathroom, Spock was there with warm towels and a plate of
saltine crackers and ginger ale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
walked over to him and sat down at the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Spock put a warm towel behind her neck and tenderly wiped her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota let him care for her; it was absolutely
pointless to resist either man when they were determined to see about her.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’m
all right now, Spock.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Can
you manage to eat anything?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She
rubbed her stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not at the
moment.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She reached for the glass and
took small sips of the gold fizzy liquid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Spock knelt before her and put his hands on her stomach.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Our
child does not agree with you today, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">k’diwa</i>.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It
never does, Spock.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It
distresses me to see you in so much discomfort.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It
will be worth it when I get to hold her in my arms.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You
have already determined the sex of the child?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“No,
silly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m just waxing poetic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like a girl.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
am unconcerned with our child’s gender.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am more concerned that it is healthy.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“It
will be, Spock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m just having a bad
pregnancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some women do, you know.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
finished her ginger ale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spock helped
her up and over to the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sat on
the edge and smiled down at him as he removed her shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he helped her recline just as Kirk
entered the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Immediately, he was by
her side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nyota adjusted as they got on
the bed with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As always, their
hands linked over her belly.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“How
are you feeling, beautiful?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I’m
all right, Jim.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“My
son’s being a bit of a jerk today?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
nuzzled her ear.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
raised an eyebrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You have determined
the sex of the child, Jim?”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“No,
you dingus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m just being silly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I would like a boy.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
looked at his lovers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“One of you is
going to be disappointed.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
sighed into the bed, eyes closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
was no doubt about it; when she was with them, absolutely nothing else
mattered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not at all, Spock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jim and I may fantasize about the sex of the
baby, but it doesn’t matter as long as she or he is healthy.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kirk
nuzzled her ear again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Right.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“How
was the reception, Jim?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sorry I
missed it.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
can’t really say, baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I left as soon
as I was done with the toast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seemed
like it was going well when I left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lt.
Hannity and Lt. Morrow—“</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“You
mean Mr. and Mrs. Morrow, Jim.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“—appeared
to be very happy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then Kirk looked at
Spock and then at Nyota.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Let’s get
married.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s do it this week.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Jim,
I think we should wait until Nyota feels up to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has been sick every day.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“I
know,” Kirk said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But I can’t help
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Watching Lt. Hannity and Lt.
Morrow…we should have that as well.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“We
will,” Nyota said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“In time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First things first, Jim.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He
sighed, clenching their fingers tight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I want to marry you,” he said, staring at both of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t want to wait another moment.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“What
I don’t want is to throw up on Admiral Pike while he’s in the middle of the
proceedings, Jim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if we’re gonna get
married, can we do it right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like
for Irish and Gaila to be present, as well as Spock’s father and your
mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like for my father to give
me away.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This last she said quietly.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Ny,”
Kirk said, kissing her nose, “My mother could give a fuck about me, but if
that’s what you want, you know I’ll do anything you tell me to.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spock
was quiet for a long moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I shall
have to inform my father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will do it
this week.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nyota
nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m ready to tell my mother right now.”</span></span></div>
Amaya Radjanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06018534467097974996noreply@blogger.com0