Disclaimer

All stories in the Dragon's Storybook Challenge are covered by Dragonjul's web site's disclaimer.

Stories are listed in the order in which they were received.

Except for the formatting that is necessary to convert a story from a word document to an html document, this story is exactly as the author submitted.

 

************************************************ Chapter 1******

It was a dreary night. Not the regular rain that makes a pattern of noise if you listen real close, but it was more of a mist, a cool mist that makes everything feel damp and wet. Lori sighed a disgusted relief as she reached the hotel, thankful to soon be inside and hopefully get rid of the chill in her bones from the mist.

"What a ride." Lori stated, to no one in particular, she was alone in the car.  She turned off the dark blue Montero Sport, and with keys in hand, grabbed her phone and her over night bag and went towards her room.  She swiped the card key and opened her door. She looked around, the queen size bed, the dresser and 26" TV, the small circular table and chair by the window, all the normal hotel amenities. Nodding her head and muttered, "Yeah, this will do."  She placed her over night bag on the small dresser and tossed her keys and cell phone down too.  She stood there pondering for a moment; do I just change clothes, or take a shower and change clothes? She was answered by the small goose bumps that traveled up her arms and back.  She patted over to the bathroom and played with the water controls for the right temperature, and then turned on the spray for the shower.

She pulled off her T-shirt, and jeans that now seemed to stick to her. She removed her shoes, socks, and finally her underwear and bra. She carefully stepped into the tub, and just stood underneath the warm spray of water.

Since she realized it too late, she had to use the hotel soap and shampoo instead of her own. She had traveled enough to know, that this wasn’t the standard bulk items most hotels buy. She was surprised at how the lather built up, as she washed her body. First she washed her face, then her arms, over her neck and ample breasts. She worked her way down her stomach and then between her legs, she lingered for a moment, knowing the release of tension she could give to herself, but opted not to, seeing it was late enough as it was. She continued down her legs and to her feet. She quickly washed her hair and stood there for a few more moments letting the water spray over her now clean body.

She stepped out of the shower and took her time, knowing she didn’t have any place to be as she dried herself off. She patted over to the bathroom mirror that was now fogged over, and ran a hand across it to clear it off to some degree. She fussed with her shoulder length brown hair for a bit, her blue eyes scanning her 5’6” frame. She rolled her eyes to her self and gave up as she picked up her discarded clothes and placed them in a bag for laundry. She then reached over and turned off the bathroom light.

She exchanged the damp towel for a plain dark green T-shirt and flannel printed lounge pants. She was feeling much better after the warm shower.  She decided to skip the TV in favor of her favorite book. She piled up the hotel bed pillows, got settled on her side, and found where she last left off in her book, ‘……..Lilly pulled Susan into her, and kissed her hard and passionately so there was no room for question or doubt about Lilly’s feelings for Susan…..’

Unexpectedly, there was a knock at Lori’s hotel door.  Staring at the door quizzically, she knew she hadn’t ordered any room service, since she ate on the road.  Assuming it was a mistake, she looked back down towards her book to resume her reading. The knock came again, a little harder this time, a little more impatient.  Lori set her book down and glanced at the clock as she got off the bed, it read 1:10am.  As Lori made her way to the door, she had already made up her mind to give who ever this was a piece of her mind!  Any normal person would be sleeping right now! Lori thought to herself. She opened the door with a little more force than she anticipated and then just stood there with her mouth agape. She blinked a few times. She couldn’t believe what she was seeing before her. Was she dreaming? This couldn’t possibly be real!

A small woman was at the door. Maybe about 5’3”, Lori wasn’t quite sure.  The woman was quite pale, but not in a sickly way.  The woman’s hands were before her, in a mock defensive motion. She was splattered with water all over. From her matted blonde and red streaked hair, spots on the front of her white t-shirt, part of her jeans, and was that….even on part of her white socks!! In her hands, is she holding? That couldn’t be…..

Lori’s ears were suddenly assaulted and she knew she wasn’t dreaming at all.

"I know what time it is, I am well aware. But when I came to check-in I could hear your shower running, so I knew you were up. I am also completely aware that I should have just called the front desk, instead of knocking on your door, but see, the thing is, that lady at the front desk is already irritated with me, I had to go through 2 bags just to find my debit card and then I forget my license in my Jeep and well like I said, I knew you were already up because of your shower running."

Lori just stood there quietly. She wasn’t aware that her own eyes were lingering at the spot of the woman’s wet t-shirt, which partially made the woman’s emerald green bra show up quite pronounced. Lori racked her brain for something to say and quite thankful the other woman started to ramble on again. Either too polite to say something about where Lori’s eyes were just focused, or maybe she didn’t even notice.

Lori figured she didn’t notice.

"So as I am sure you can tell, I am quite soaked. I can’t believe this damn thing came flying off like it did. So do you think you can help me?"

This "damn thing" the woman was referring to, was the shower head she had been holding in her hand.

Lori knew she should call the front desk.
Lori knew she should just go back to her book.
Lori knew she should tell this woman "No. Sorry." And shut the door.

 

******Chapter 2***********************************************

"Careful!" Michelle squealed as she instinctively grabbed Lori’s hips to keep her from falling head first into the bathtub, as Lori tried to balance one foot on the tub’s side, while the rest of her body tried to align itself up with the faulty showerhead.

Michelle kept her hands on Lori’s hips. Not that Michelle could prevent Lori from falling, they were a bit mismatched in size, but at least this way, Michelle could defend herself by saying she tried, if Lori had fallen.

"There. All done." Lori stated. She twisted herself on one foot on the bath tub as if she was an expert gymnast on the balance beam. Lori placed her hands on the shower curtain rod, not so much for balance, but because Michelle’s hands were still upon her hips.

For a mere instant, blue eyes locked upon blue eyes, as if they were shouting something to one another.

Michelle swiftly moved her hands from Lori’s hips, and proceeded to clap for her as she said, "Wow, you didn’t even need any tools!"

Lori chuckled as she hopped down from the tub and then said "I have many skills." As she was pretty sure this woman wouldn’t know where the quote was from.

Michelle suddenly flashed a smile, "that may be, but where is your trusty chakram? My hands were on your hips, and I know it wasn’t there."

Lori was stunned for a moment and thought to herself, more than a pretty face, who knew.

Wait.
What?!
Damn, I must be tired.

Michelle’s eyes narrowed in question at the pause, but decided not to press her luck.

She plopped herself on the edge of the bed, cleared her throat and said "thanks, again for that. I just really didn’t want to hassle the lady at the front desk again."

Lori nodded and said "your welcome, I’ll get going so you can um…change or whatever."

Michelle smiled and walked Lori to the door. "G’night, and thanks again!"

Lori smiled as she opened her own door and said "g’night."

Michelle walked back to her over night bag and the contents all over the dresser top. She happened to catch a glimpse of herself in the mirror. She laughed whole heartedly out loud at the site of her own image and she thought no wonder that woman didn’t say much, she was probably trying not to laugh at you!

Michelle leaned in towards the mirror watching her reflection, and ran her fingertips over the wet spot on her t-shirt that made her emerald green bra so apparent. She bit her inner lip. Oh well she thought to herself, I’m sure she’s seen worse. With a shrug, Michelle sauntered off to the bathroom. She discarded her damp clothes on the bathroom floor. She looked at the shower head and stuck her tongue out at it and opted for a quick warm bath instead.

Lori settled herself back on her bed, in her own room. She picked up her book and began reading again, as she heard the water running in the next room.  She smiled to herself, and gave a quick glance to the door, waiting for another knock.

While waiting, Lori got lost in thought. Remembering those bright blue eyes, that flash of a smile. The emerald green bra. The woman’s pale white skin……

Hearing the water turn off, shook Lori from her thoughts. She shook her head to herself. Not because she was ashamed at her own thoughts, but because she knew nothing about this woman whose shower head she had just fixed.

Lori didn’t remember when she finally fell asleep, but the clock now read 8:30am. She lay there quietly listening and taking her time to wake up. The image of the wet white t-shirt and emerald green bra suddenly placed itself right in the center of her mind.  Lori’s eyes widened as if she had just been splashed with some ice water. With a disgusted grunt, she threw off her blankets and got out of bed.

Why did that come to mind? I’ve seen women before. And naked women too, for that matter.  Lori thought to herself as she got out her clothes for the day. Besides, I’m sure the woman has long checked out by now since I don’t hear anything coming from that direction.

With a self convincing nod, Lori made her way to the bathroom. She was about to set down her bathroom supplies and froze in mid-motion.  She thought she heard some noise from the other room. Lori leaned in towards the mirrored wall a bit.

She heard some …….music. And then, singing???

Lori leaned a bit too far, as she lost her footing, she began to fall she tried to grab for the sink, but slipped on its porcelain. The bathroom supplies that were in her hand, were now abruptly sprawled about everywhere as they came crashing down upon her.

She herself came crashing down with a thud while yelling "Dammit!"

***********************Chapter 3******************************

Before she could regain her composure there was knocking at the door.

As she scrambled to get up she heard a woman say "Are you ok in there?? Hello?!"

Lori went to the door, she removed the lock piece and pulled open the door. She was expecting to see someone from the housekeeping staff but instead she saw the woman from last night.

"Are you alright? I heard a crashing sound…did something fall?" Michelle quickly asked as she was scanning Lori’s body up and down to see if she was hurt.

There is no way I can tell her I fell cuz I was trying to listen to her sing!!

Lori was able to disguise her embarrassment as anger, and replied hastily. "That sound was just me falling. I must have slipped on some water in the bathroom."

Michelle exhaled with a relief and said chuckling "What is it with these bathrooms here?!?"  Lori laughed back easily and said "I have no idea."  Their blues eyes locked again. Both women oblivious to anything or anyone around them.

Lori noticed Michelle’s attire. Apparently awake, from the singing she heard, but not quite dressed to be out in public. Michelle wore similar lounge pants to those Lori was wearing, but instead of a T-shirt, Michelle had on a small dark blue tank top that clung to her petite frame. Lori bit her tongue for a moment, preventing some words from escaping, and decided instead to say "Thanks for checking on me. I’m quite alright."  "yeah, sure. I was up anyways." Michelle replied with a smile. Then quickly added "I didn’t wake you with my music, did I?"

"No, no, I didn’t even hear it." Of course, that was a lie.
"Well that’s good. I get over zealous with my music sometimes." Michelle smiled.
"Yeah. I can be like that too."

Lori, being grateful for the door she was half hiding behind was fighting with the urge to invite this woman in and just talk with her. She felt strangely drawn to her.  Lori was wrestling with her own inner thoughts, when she noticed that Michelle’s face seem to change. She was no longer happy and chipper like a moment ago.

Now it was Lori’s turn to be concerned "Are you alright?"
Michelle didn’t say anything.  Lori opened the door all the way and moved closer towards Michelle, she reached out her arm and touched Michelle’s arm with her hand. Lori repeated what she had already said, only with a little more concern this time.  "Are you alright?"  Michelle looked down to where Lori’s hand was touching her arm, and her gaze followed up Lori’s arm until their eyes were locked together once more.

Michelle’s emotions suddenly beat her from what she felt was at every angle possible.  I can’t tell this stranger my whole life story, but what is it about her eyes?  Michelle managed to blink back the few tears that were starting to form in her eyes. She opened her mouth to say I’m fine, but then nothing came out.  She stood frozen, as if she was unable to leave when that was what she wanted most of all, was to leave. To hide from this woman’s penetrating gaze. To have this woman not be touching her like she was.
Yes, that is what she wanted.
Didn’t she?

Before Michelle could protest, she felt herself being guided into this womans room. Michelle scolded herself, oh sure, bother the woman late last night and now look where you are, bothering her again!! Michelle felt herself sitting down on the edge of the bed.  Lori realized as she sat down that she was a bit closer to Michelle than she intended to be, but she didn’t bother to reposition herself and let their thighs touch side by side. Lori sat quietly waiting.

Michelle finally uttered "I’m sorry. I don’t know why……I don’t know what to say."  Lori smiled sweetly, unable to take her eyes off of Michelle, but not quite staring at her either. "Your name would be a nice place to start."
Michelle suddenly looked at Lori like she was incredibly insane. "What?!"
Lori tried not to laugh at Michelle’s confused expression, "Your name, I assume you have one?"
"Well of course I have one!" Michelle sputtered back.

Lori didn’t respond, only waited. Even though she was concerned for Michelle, she somehow knew the woman wasn’t a threat.  Michelle cheeks now flushed with embarrassment, as she realized what had happened. "I’m sorry. I totally thought I introduced myself last night, with that whole shower head incident. I guess I didn’t. My name is Michelle." 
Lori put out her hand "It’s nice to officially meet you, I’m Lori."

Michelle shook Lori’s hand as she rolled her eyes and laughed once again.
"Ah, there’s that beautiful smile." Lori heard what she already said unable to take it back now she continued speaking, "so, are sure you are alright?"

Michelle just nodded.

Lori placed her hands upon her own thighs, to push herself up and off the edge of the bed. However, now it was Lori’s turn to freeze, Michelle’s hand was on top of Lori’s hand, and both their hands were resting on her thigh.

Lori knew Michelle was speaking. But she was only hearing bits and pieces. Fragments of words.

"Because…”
“…she…”
“…and then…"

Lori was captivated by her touch. She noticed the softness of Michelle’s skin, and the pale white shade she remembered from last night, hit her once again.

Lori tried again to concentrate on what Michelle was saying.

"But I guess she didn’t feel the same…….because why would she do that….."  Michelle was still explaining her situation.

Lori thought she heard Michelle say "she?!"
That can’t be right.
Wishful thinking Lori thought to herself. Now it was Lori’s turn to scold herself;
It’s your imagination. Quit it!

Lori regained her focus just as Michelle seemed to be finishing up what she was saying.

"….and that is why I reacted the way I did in the hallway."

Lori mentally cursed herself for missing the most obvious part of what Michelle was saying. Now she could only nod as if she was contemplating what to say. Thankfully, it worked in her favor.

"Have I shocked you? Talking about my ex girlfriend like that?" Michelle asked.

Lori felt the puzzle pieces lock into place suddenly. "No. I mean, not that I instantly knew you were…..but no, I am not shocked. I have an ex girlfriend too."

Lori, not usually so outspoken had to chuckle at Michelle’s expression.  Her normally small blue eyes seemed round and large. She raised her eyebrows in disbelief.

"You mean my rainbow necklace didn’t give me away? Or that I was so handy last night with out any tools?" Lori mocked being hurt, by placing her hands over her heart and falling back onto the bed.

Michelle watched Lori fall back onto the bed, and with out thinking sprang on top of her. Like a cat who pounces on its prey. Michelle was straddling Lori’s hips with her legs and her hands were laying flat against the bed by Lori’s face. When Lori opened her eyes from the mock hurt, she was looking into some very mischievous blue eyes. Lori didn’t trust her voice at this moment, so she arched her eyebrow instead.

Michelle bit her inner lip as she wondered is that a question or a dare? Hmmm……. Michelle shifted most of her weight to her left side, as she lifted her right hand and moved it towards Lori’s breasts. Michelle leaned her face down towards Lori, stopping only inches from Lori’s lips.

"Oh!........so you mean this necklace?" Michelle spoke, as she picked up the necklace Lori was referring to with her right hand.

Lori felt Michelle’s breath on her neck as she spoke, but only heard the drumming of her own heartbeat in her ears. Lori kept her composure, or so she had hoped, and simply nodded.

Michelle was still toying with the necklace in her fingers, but neither woman was looking at the necklace. Once again their eyes were locked. Searching. Questioning. Wondering. Seeking.

Lori could feel the energy between them, and if Michelle’s sexy smile indicated anything, she knew Michelle could feel it too.  Lori wondered briefly Why am I reacting to this woman like this, she is still basically a stranger to me?  Before her thoughts could continue any further, she watched Michelle slowly pull away from her, and then off the bed.  Lori remained on her back side, but turned her head so she was looking at Michelle standing on the floor at the side of the bed.

How cute. Lori thought, as she watched Michelle play with the hem of her little dark blue tank top.

Michelle asked with an innocence rarely seen anymore these days, "Since we are both obviously awake, do you wanna go have some breakfast?"

Lori knew she shouldn’t.
She had other things to do.
She had errands to run.
She should just thank Michelle for the offer and be on her own way.

*******************************************Chapter 4*************

"No, IHOP." Lori stated.

"No, Denny’s." Michelle said. Michelle pulled down her sunglasses to rest on her nose, and gave Lori the best puppy dog eyes and pout she could muster.  Lori laughed is spite of herself and pulled into the Denny’s parking lot.

Just as Lori was about to turn off the Montero Sport Michelle said "Wait!"  Michelle scrambled to find the volume control, she turned it way up and began singing along "……….cuz I’m the only one who walk across the fire for you…..and I’m the only one who would drown my desire for you…it’s only fear that makes your run.....the demons that your hiding from……I’m the ooonnlllyyy oooonnnneeeeeeeeeeeeee….."

Even though Lori knew the words she just simply watched Michelle from the drivers’ seat. Lori was amused by her as well as intrigued. She chuckled to herself as she thought, from driving alone last night in the dreary dampness, to having breakfast with….with…..should I call her a friend?  Lori smiled, turned down the volume and shut off the Montero.  They made their way into the restaurant.

It was your normal mix of patrons, some younger teens, a number of families, a few locals and some older couples as well.  They were greeted by a hostess and shown to their table. Both women settled into their side of the booth and pondered over the menu.

Lori tried to guess what Michelle was going to order probably just two eggs and some toast, she doesn’t look like she can eat too much. Delighted with herself, Lori chuckled.

"What’s so funny?" Michelle asked in all seriousness.
"Nothing." Lori replied.
Michelle glared at Lori briefly and then went back to scanning the menu.

The waitress came by and took their orders.  "I’ll have the meat lovers’ omelet, with white toast and a Large Chocolate Milk, please." Lori told the waitress.

"I’ll have the grand slam, with two large chocolate milk please." Michelle said.

Lori smiled and just shook her head to herself. Yeah, like she’ll finish all that! Whatever.  Lori decided to ask some questions while they were enjoying their breakfast. Because, after all, she already had been in the shower with this woman. Technically. And they already shared a room. Technically. And she already had her in her bed. Technically.

"Why are you at the hotel?" Lori asked.
"To sleep." Michelle replied with a smile and wink.
"ok" Lori replied, appreciating the humor between them.

Michelle took a large swallow of her chocolate milk and then said "I’m actually out this way because I’m seeing a singer tonight that is passing through the area."

Lori stopped mid chew. "You’re what?" Lori asked with half a mouthful.

It was now Michelle’s turn to laugh at Lori’s comical expression, so Michelle did just that. She laughed at Lori.

Lori swallowed her food and chuckled herself, realizing what her expression must have looked like. "I’m sorry, it’s just that I am here to see a singer too."  Lori told herself this couldn’t be happening. Not only were they at the same hotel, they were practically sharing a room, they both have ex girlfriends, which she safely assumed Michelle was single, they are both in this same town, and no, it couldn’t be that they were here to see the same singer.  No. That would all be just too weird.

Michelle responded with a simple "hmm."
"Aren’t you going to ask "who" the singer is I am going to see?" Lori asked.
"No." Michelle replied.
Stunned, Lori asked "Why not?"
"Because, honestly, it doesn’t matter." Michelle stated flatly as she began drinking her second chocolate milk.

Lori calmly put her silverware down. She rested one arm on the table, and reached over the table with her other arm and grasped Michelle’s arm with her hand. "What on earth are you talking about?" Lori inquired.

Michelle reacted to the touch, but somehow managed to finish swallowing her chocolate milk with out choking on it.

Lori felt Michelle tense up and slowly released her hold on Michelle’s arm. Lori began to wonder what it was this woman must have gone through to make her react like that so often, but just as Lori’s thoughts were pulling her inward, Michelle started speaking.

"It doesn’t matter because, even if we are both here to see the same singer, we obviously already have our tickets. It doesn’t matter if we are both here to see the same singer, because obviously we came from different directions originally. It doesn’t matter if we are both here to see the same singer, because we are just fans of the artist. So see, it doesn’t matter if we are both here to see the same singer.....or not."  Michelle took another bite of her hash browns.

Lori could see the logic behind Michelle’s rantings, but still wondered why she just hadn’t simply asked "who?"  Lori just replied with a nod of her head.

Lori was consumed by her own thoughts and didn’t notice she was being watched. Michelle finished with her last bits of hash browns, and washed it down with the last of the chocolate milk. She continued to watch Lori curiously, as she dealt with her own thoughts.  Damn! Why do I react to her simple touch like that?! I didn’t mean to come off so non-chalant about the singer.
We have a good report going, I hope I didn’t just mess it all up by freaking out like that. Why didn’t I just ask "who?" How hard would that have been?
Ugh.

Lori looked up and realized Michelle had just finished paying the waitress.

"I would have split that with you." Lori indicated towards the bill.
"Don’t worry about it." Michelle said, "besides, you drove here."
"Oh yeah, all two blocks of it."
"Then we’re even if you ask me."
"I didn’t."

Michelle looked up as she was finishing putting the change in her jeans pocket. She couldn’t quite tell if Lori had been joking or if she was serious. Michelle crossed her arms in front of her and leaned on the table.

Lori did the same.

Their seriousness lasted all of about 2 seconds as both women finally just laughed out loud.  Lori had noticed Michelle finished her entire breakfast and was surprised but kept it to herself.

Both women went back out to the Montero and Lori started it up as Michelle settled into the passenger seat.  Lori put the Montero into reverse and was about to back up when she barely heard Michelle ask her something. She put her foot on the brake, and looked at Michelle, with a serious yet confused look on her face. She asked "what did you just say?" She was answered by a horn blaring at her.  She put the Montero into drive, and then into park. Michelle waited for the profanity from the other driver to die down before she quietly repeated her question. "I asked, "who""?

Lori smiled. Or at least she was sure she did. She sat there momentarily quite mystified as she wondered to herself, Can your heart smile???!!!!

*******Chapter 5***************************************

Even though they each enjoyed themselves at breakfast, they decided to part ways for the time being.  They both had previous engagements to keep, and agreed they would meet up later that night.

Michelle was leaning against the inside of her closed hotel room door thinking about Lori. She was wondering how this woman, practically out of no where, who seemed so calm, so level headed, so nice, was able to handle her so well.

You freak out and she doesn’t react.
You cry and she just sits and listens to you.
You both apparently have the same sense of humor, that in itself is unusual. Most people just look at you oddly.

She wondered what had suddenly gotten into her. She wasn’t usually so up front and out spoken with strangers. And what was that all about singing in the SUV? That was normally reserved for her well known friends. Well known, as in 10 years or more. She chalked it up to being a new town, getting little sleep, and.....and was there something else?  With a shrug to herself, she went into the bathroom.  She brushed her teeth and her hair and cleaned off her face.  She checked herself over and fairly happy with what she saw, she grabbed the keys to her Jeep and headed out the door.

When she passed Lori’s door, she leaned in a bit. Michelle contemplated knocking and asking if Lori wanted to run errands with her, but then decided against it.  There was no sound coming from Lori’s room, so Michelle assumed she was probably reading or already gone for the afternoon.  She had seen the book on Lori’s bedside table from this morning. She smiled as she walked down the hall thinking to herself that’s my favorite Author too.

Lori was in her hotel room as well.  She was seated at the chair by the table. She was blankly staring out the window, watching some birds fly in and out of the tree that was nearby. Lori was replaying the events from last night, and this morning in her mind.

I fix her faulty showerhead.
She comes to see if I’m alright, after my "accidental" fall.
She straddles me on my bed.

Lori felt herself smile in pure reflex as that last image conjured itself up and lingered for a bit.  From outside she heard a car horn that shook her from her thoughts.  "Just as well" she said to the vacant white walls. She had things to be doing.  She dug her keys out of her pocket and grabbed a few things off her dresser.  Once she was in the hallway, she proceeded to shut the door, but didn’t, something caught her eye.

She stood there for a moment, her eyes trying to focus on what appeared to be one single white rose taped to her door with a small note that read:  "Thanks for so much. ~Michelle"

Lori blinked a few times. She slowly looked around the hallway. No one seemed to be around. She undid the rose from the door and went back into her room and filled up a plastic cup with water. She placed the rose inside the cup of water, and set it down along with the note on the small circular table in her room.

In a bit of a haze she walked back out of her room and shut the door this time.  She walked over to Michelle’s door and knocked. There was no answer.  Lori paused at Michelle’s door just to be sure she wasn’t there.  "Damn" Lori softly muttered under her breath.  She proceeded to walk out of the hotel with a small grin etched onto her face.

Lori was driving and her thoughts began to entertain her.
And, just what would you have said to her, had she answered that door? Hm?
If you had attacked her with a hug, like you were planning on doing, who knows what that poor woman would have done. Seriously, she reacts to the touch of your hand, what do you think she’ll do to your entire body touching her?!

Lori was stopped at a red stop light, and thankful for it because the realization hit her, What would I have done if she had answered the door? Awkwardly say "thanks for the flower."  She answered her own thought, almost out loud. Well, yeah! Of course that is what I would have said!!  The light turned green and Lori went about her business.

Michelle was lost in thought as she shopped for a few grocery items. She thought about breakfast. The way Lori spoke so calmly. The way Lori seemed so patient. She wondered if Lori had seen the rose yet. She wondered more as to why she did it in the first place! Michelle calmed herself down by simply thinking "it was just a nice gesture" and left her thoughts at that.

Michelle wandered up and down the aisles of the small grocery store lazily. Apparently she was looking quite lost, she had three sales people already come up and offer any assistance. Michelle chuckled to herself silently and knew she better get going after the third sales person left her be.  She took her bag of groceries and made her way the Jeep.  While she was driving back to the hotel she smiled to herself as she nodded her head to the music of the Indigo Girls CD that was playing. I’ve got to get ready for tonight!!

Michelle went back to her hotel room and purposely leaned in towards Lori’s door as she passed by to see if she could hear anything. She didn’t. With a shrug, she went into her own room and unloaded her arms of the groceries she had been carrying. Just then, something had occurred to her. She ran back towards the hallway almost tripping herself with her own feet.

She scanned Lori’s door. The note and rose were not there. Michelle scanned the area all around the floor by Lori’s door. No sign of either item. She walked over to her own door and didn’t see a note or anything.

Michelle went back into her room fell upon the bed and seriously wondered if she had done the right thing at all.

*******Chapter 6**********************************************

Lori was back at the hotel and knew there was still a good two hours before the singer started her show. So she opted to take a cool shower and relax a bit from the days errands.

She stood in the shower letting her mind wander. She wondered all kinds of things about Michelle. How old was she? Where was she from originally? Why EXACTLY did she and her ex break up? Wait. Who cares!! I know she is single!

Lori half smiled at her thoughts. They soon became more serious though. What am I doing? We are both only here for one more night. This is crazy. She leaned her back and head against the porcelain shower wall. Yeah. This was definitely crazy.

As Lori’s thoughts stirred some more, so did her hands of their own accord. She wasn’t even aware the soap was still in its dish, and not in her hand. Her left hand teased her left nipple, while her right hand worked its way between her legs. She was aware she was wet from the shower, but this was something else entirely. She fantasized about women plenty of times, but for some reason, thinking of Michelle and her pale skin.....her emerald bra....that sexy smile....thoughts of Michelle did something else to her. They somehow pushed her. And the thoughts didn’t need much help at all. God, how close she had been to you, you could have kissed her!! Lori heard herself moan, and before she could react, her body started to convulse, she knew she had just cum.  Lori hung her head for a bit, waiting for her heartbeat to slow down, and hoping to god her shaking legs could hold out just a bit longer.

Lori senses finally evened out, she picked up her soap absent mindedly and lathered herself up. Since many areas of her body were still quite sensitive to the touch she was in no rush. She washed her hair and rinsed herself off. She dried off in the bathroom and hung up the towel. She brushed her teeth and put her wet hair in a loose pony tail. She looked over her outfit once more before putting it on.   Lori had just tucked her white blouse into her faded blue jeans as she heard the knock on the door. She knew it was Michelle, and simply stated "come in, it’s open."

Michelle was going to tease Lori about leaving her door unlocked, but as soon as she saw Lori she didn’t say a word.  She watched Lori as she finished buttoning one of the top buttons on her blouse and all Michelle could manage to utter was "wow!"

Lori rolled her eyes in response to Michelle’s statement. She swiftly scanned Michelle’s outfit. They were similarly dressed. Michelle was also wearing a pair of faded blue jeans, but instead of a white blouse, Michelle was wearing a form fitting sleeveless dark purple blouse. Lori let out an anxious sigh because Michelle looked so beautiful to her, but kept her mind on the concert. As Lori gathered up a few things to place in her jean pockets, she hadn’t noticed that Michelle saw the rose and note lying on the circular table.

Michelle slowly sat on the bed as it seemed her whole world had just exploded right before her. Oh my god! She kept it and the note too.  She was even thoughtful enough to put it in some water. Michelle felt her heart skip a few beats. It was such a small but thoughtful gesture.

Lori finished collecting her items and turned back towards Michelle.  She was about to say that she was ready to go when she noticed Michelle sitting on the bed looking preoccupied.  Lori crouched down to one knee right beside Michelle. She was very concerned about Michelle and felt a teardrop hit her hand.

"Michelle, what’s wrong?"  Lori urged.
Lori knew she was crying because she saw her shoulders shaking.

"Michelle, I’m sorry, I guess it’s been a long time since I have gotten a compliment. I didn’t mean to be rude."
"It’s not........that." Michelle managed to say through her sniffles and tears.

Lori removed herself from her kneeling position and sat closely on the bed next to Michelle.  She decided against her better judgment and put her arms around Michelle, just to hold her. To try and comfort her. It felt like the right thing to do. To Lori’s pure surprise and delight, Michelle flung her arms tightly around Lori.   Lori smiled, not because it was a funny moment, but Michelle’s arms felt so very good to her. ***************************ChApTeR 7**************************

Lori held Michelle until most of her crying had subsided.

"Oh no!" Michelle suddenly stated.
"What is it?!" Lori asked with great concern.
"I’ve ruined your blouse with my crying." Michelle said softly, obviously embarrassed.
"It’s not ruined at all, and you are more important than this blouse."

Their eyes locked once more. However, this time was different. There was an intensity that Lori swore she could literally feel if she had waved her hand between the two of them right then.  Lori didn’t think about what she was doing and placed her hands upon Michelle’s cheeks. She wiped off Michelle’s remaining tears with her thumbs. Lori smiled at Michelle to let her know that everything was going to be ok.

Michelle sat frozen once again. Almost. Her eyes seemed to be trying to convey everything her mouth wouldn’t to let her. She watched Lori with a great intensity. Like the way a predator concentrates on its prey before they pounce.

Lori noticed the blue of Michelle’s eyes darken. This wasn’t the mischievous blue she remembered looking into just that morning.  Lori leaned in and kissed one side of Michelle’s cheek. Then she pulled back slowly, not because she was afraid of what she might see, but wondering if that was the right thing to do.

Michelle spoke in a hurried breath, "I know this sounds completely crazy, but ever since I knocked on your door last night, you do something to me. You do something so completely to me that it seems like I can’t react to you at all. I freeze up. It’s like my own body short circuits itself!! I can’t explain it really, but I know you’ve felt it, I know you’ve seen it."

Lori still had her hands on Michelle’s cheeks and just nodded as she knew there was more Michelle had to say.

"I’ve told you things with out barely knowing you. I’ve had my hands upon you, which was entirely out of line..for me. I have even pounced upon you like some god damn cat!!"  Michelle sighed. "I left you that Rose, because.....it just seemed like the right thing to do." Michelle looked down at the bed comforter.

Lori moved her hands from Michelle’s cheeks, to her hands.  Lori went to explain to Michelle that she agreed, it was the right thing, when Michelle started speaking again.  "I’ve had my emotions pummel me ever since I knocked on your door. I’ve wanted to kiss you since you jumped off my tub last night, when we first locked eyes. It was as if....."  Michelle trailed off, not knowing how to quite finish that sentence.

Lori wondered how it was possible that silence could be so deafening at times.

Lori took a deep breath, and quietly said "....it was as if my body was shouting at me to kiss you. To hold you. To touch you. To assure you. I was just too foolish to listen."

Michelle threw her arms around Lori again and clung to her as if she was drowning. Lori held her close. She understood her pain even though she didn’t know the entire story. She understood her emptiness for she has been there herself for far too long.

Michelle moved in a sudden motion and kissed Lori full upon her lips.
Lori couldn’t help but laugh.
Michelle looked at Lori puzzled.

"No. No!" Lori said. "You just kissed me like the characters in a book I was reading."
"Oh" Michelle said quite relieved.  Those mischievous eyes peered at Lori once again Michelle asked, "Do you want me to show you what happens with those two characters?"

Lori didn’t quite realize what Michelle had just said as she responded with "no, don’t tell me....."  It was Lori’s turn to blush. "Oh."
Michelle leaned in to kiss Lori again, but stopped short.
Neither woman moved. They each only listened to the sounds of their breathing.
Then Michelle softly said "we’ll miss our show."

Lori leaned away from Michelle so she could look into her eyes. Lori was now very serious.  Michelle saw Lori’s face and eyes change and her stomach began to tighten into a nervous knot.

Lori grabbed Michelle lightly by the shoulders and made sure they were looking into each other’s eyes. "Michelle. I understand we have just basically met. I understand there is a lot we don’t know about one another. But let me tell you, I also understand this" Lori eased Michelle onto the bed, upon her back, as she finished saying in complete seriousness "there will be other shows. There will never be another ‘first time’ between you and I. From here on out, you are not to think, you are not to question, and you are to not worry."
Michelle went to protest when she was swiftly hushed by a very passionate kiss.
"The only thing you are to do is simply be in the moment, here with me." Lori finished saying.

Michelle didn’t know whether she could trust herself enough to do that but she was willing to try. Her stomach slowly released its hold on her.

 

***************************************************Chapter 8***

Lori was welcomed in by Michelle’s open arms. They lay there just holding one another. Getting used to one another.  Lori pulled back slightly, only enough to kiss Michelle’s cheeks. Her eye lids. The tip of her nose. She kissed the tip of her ears and then her mouth. Softly. Tenderly. Lori put her hand upon Michelle’s cheek.

Michelle in return cupped Lori’s hand on her face, and placed her other hand upon Lori’s back.

Michelle’s eyes were still closed, but Lori could see the slight smile upon her face. Lori kissed her lips once again. She eased her way to the side of Michelle’s neck and laid a path of tender kisses from the back of Michelle’s ear to the neckline of her blouse.

Michelle urged for Lori to be on her backside now, Lori fulfilling Michelle’s request rolled them over together. Almost expertly. It was as if their bodies had been doing this for years. Michelle sat up and chuckled as she said "Seems we’ve been in this position before!"

Lori’s hands were upon Michelle’s thighs. "Yes," Lori paused "but this time I don’t intend to let you go."

Michelle smiled whole heartedly and truly believed what Lori was saying to her.  A silent thought escaped from Michelle I barely know anything about this woman, and yet, I am about to make love to her. As if right on cue, Lori pulled Michelle down to her, she kissed her and then impatiently said "I told you, no thinking!"  Michelle answered her with a kiss. A kiss that was as strong as it was passionate.

Michelle kept kissing Lori’s lips as her hands fondled Lori’s breasts. Michelle thought to herself how lovely you feel in my hands. I can’t wait to kiss you.

Lori was going to unbutton her own blouse when Michelle responded with a quite stern "No"  and she pushed away Lori’s hands.  Although Lori was surprised by the sudden confidence, she was more excited by the excitement this woman was stirring in her.

Michelle stopped kissing Lori and sat up. She unbuttoned Lori’s blouse.

Lori tried to count, tried to breathe. All that she seemed able to do was to look deep into Michelle’s eyes.

Michelle gently tossed the white blouse onto the floor. She grazed her fingertips over Lori’s bra and took a few moments to idly trace some patterns with her fingertips.  Michelle pulled Lori up, just enough to remove her bra. She gasped for a breath as Lori’s breasts spilled out of the bra. "So beautiful." was all she could utter.  Michelle cupped each breast with her hand. She kissed each nipple. She licked each one, as if they were a breakable piece of candy. Michelle paid extra attention to Lori’s bare breasts.

Lori closed her eyes taking in all the pleasure. The intensity was building. Her breathing was quick. She felt her skin becoming hot. She grabbed for the edge of the bed with her hands. Michelle felt the movement and then spotted Lori’s hand squeezing the side of the bed. Michelle tried to pull Lori’s hand from the bed side. Lori resisted "I’ll hurt you if I touch you, and I won’t do that to you."  Since Lori’s eyes were still closed, she missed the most precious smile from Michelle’s lips.  Michelle whispered into Lori’s ear, "You won’t. Please. I need you to be touching me."

Lori didn’t want to deny Michelle and placed her hands firmly on Michelle’s hips. She then bolted upright, as she knew she had to have all of Michelle as close to her as possible. Lori removed Michelle’s blouse. It was then that she noticed the same emerald green bra as the night before. Lori gazed at it adoringly.

Michelle blushed and quietly chuckled as she said "I saw you staring at it last night."

"I’m sorry....I just.....I don’t normally...." Lori’s words failed her. She bent her head to kiss Michelle’s stomach and her sides. As Lori finished kissing Michelle’s sides, she worked her kissing back up towards Michelle’s breasts. It was then, that she was greeted with the most taunt nipples she had ever seen. A moan was all that managed to escape Lori’s mouth as she kissed, licked and sucked Michelle’s small breasts.

Michelle threw her head back and reveled in the electricity that seemed to be passing between them.  Michelle briefly wondered if it was possible to levitate off a bed.

Lori’s grip became tighter around Michelle’s waist. It was as if she couldn’t get enough of her. Both women suddenly moved with ease and Michelle was upon her back.

Lori slid down Michelle’s legs ever so slowly. She reached the end of the bed and dropped down to her knees. She removed Michelle’s shoes, and socks, and then reached up to undo her jeans. She slowly pulled off Michelle’s jeans. She cradled Michelle’s ankle in her hand. She kissed her toes, then her foot, then moved up towards her shin. She repeated the same motion on Michelle’s other leg.  She reached up towards Michelle and grazed her fingertips across her stomach. She grazed her fingers across Michelle’s underwear. 

Michelle had her eyes closed and arms up on the pillows.  She was taking in every movement Lori made.  Her stomach shuddered in response to Lori’s touch

Lori concentrated hard to pace herself. Not that she had a problem with taking things slow, but she felt an urgency she couldn’t quite explain.

*******Chapter 9************************************************

Michelle wasn’t thinking. She wasn’t worrying. She wasn’t doing anything, except for being in the moment like Lori told her. She felt overwhelmed, as if she might cry. Just then Lori’s hands grazed across her groin. Instead of crying Michelle simply cried out.
Michelle fumbled for her underwear, eager to have it be removed. Lori seemed to know this instinctively, as she finished removing the underwear for her. Michelle was about to tell Lori to come to her to be on top of her when Michelle felt herself being pulled to the edge of the bed.

She felt Lori’s breath on her groin. She was glad at least one of them was breathing, as she was pretty sure she was not at this moment.

Michelle inhaled sharply as she felt just the tip of Lori’s tongue on her pink flesh. Michelle felt Lori’s arms wrap around each of her thighs. Lori alternated slowly, between kissing and licking Michelle’s groin.

Michelle began to rock her hips back and forth. She couldn’t believe it had been over a year since she was last with her girlfriend. And even as true as that statement was, as Lori’s tongue parted Michelle’s now swollen lips, Michelle instantly knew she was NEVER loved like this before.

Michelle cried out unable to keep her voice inside of herself any longer. She grasped at the bed covers with her hands. She twist and turned. Not wanting to escape but unable to hold her self still any longer.

Lori held on tighter with each turn Michelle made. She thought she had almost cum herself when she heard Michelle cry out. Lori kissed and licked some more, but knew she didn’t want to have Michelle that way completely so she let go of her thighs, and began slowing down her kisses. She let Michelle catch her breath as she undid her own shoes, socks, jeans, and her underwear. Lori motioned for Michelle to slide back up upon the bed. Michelle did so as Lori joined her on the bed and Michelle said, "I wanted to finish undressing you" and produced a small pout. Lori sucked on Michelle’s protruding lip for a moment, then hoarsely said "another time."

Lori knew Michelle wasn’t disappointed as their bodies merged together effortlessly.
Michelle desperately wanted to do all those things to Lori as Lori had just down to her but when Michelle went to move, Lori stopped her.

"I’m sorry honey, but it just can’t happen that way this time."

"But...." Michelle protested, only to be cut off by a hard intense kiss from Lori.

Lori barely spoke in between her gasps of air.... "I’m not...." gasp "Normally...." gasp "In such a hurry...."

Michelle kissed Lori’s stomach as Lori tried to get her statement out.

"But..."

Michelle was inching her way down Lori’s beautiful body.

Lori groaned in response.

"I had a moment with myself in the shower, before you got here tonight...."

Michelle at first didn’t think too much of it, until she heard Lori say, "while thinking of you."

Michelle almost couldn’t believe her ears. She fantasized about me, just tonight?

Michelle was already at Lori’s groin, and her kisses became more intense. If that was possible. She kissed Lori’s swollen lips, and welcomed in her wetness. Michelle knew she couldn’t be there too long, so she slowly slid back up Lori’s naked body. Her small breasts sliding against Lori’s naked flesh. Michelle positioned her hand in between Lori’s thighs.

Lori’s hand went to Michelle’s groin and was greeted by a wetness she never knew was possible.

As Michelle entered Lori with one finger, Lori did the same to Michelle. Michelle went for two fingers, Lori did the same. Each woman mirrored the other until they both climaxed.

Each woman thought a love like this was only possible in the books they escaped to so often. Neither knew if they would ever be able to tell the other the intensity they just felt.

After their bodies settled down and some time spent holding one another Lori saw those beautiful blue mischievous eyes once again.

Lori arched an eyebrow as she smiled.

Michelle giggled as she said "You never answered my question."

Lori mocked a sigh "wwwhhhaaaattttt?"

Michelle feigned an innocent look and said "do you want me to show you what happens between those two characters?"

It took Lori all but a minute to make the connection.

She caught Michelle’s sexy smile.

"Absolutely" barely escaped Lori’s lips as she was suddenly engulfed by a kisses she would never ever forget.

*********CHAPTER 10**********************************

 

Somehow night had turned into dawn and dawn became mid morning with out either woman knowing the difference.

 

Both women lay on the bed.  Lori couldn’t quite remember the time they finally drifted off to sleep, but truthfully, she hadn’t really cared.  Not only were they entwined together but they were mixed in with the covers and sheets. If someone had taken a picture of them just then you wouldn’t know whose limbs belonged to whom!  The thought of that made Lori chuckle.

 

Michelle mumbled out something that Lori had hoped was close to ‘what’?

 

“I was just imaging someone taking a picture of us….” Before Lori could finish her statement, Michelle popped hear head up and said quite clearly…

 

“And why in the world are you thinking of something like that?!”

 

Lori patted the back of Michelle’s head, and guided her to lie down again.

 

“Before I was so rudely interrupted……I was imagining someone taking a picture of us because you can’t quite tell where one begins and where the other one ends.”

 

Michelle surveyed the bed.  “I see what you mean.”  She lay her head back down upon Lori’s stomach and Lori drifted off into her own thoughts. I can definitely say I wasn’t expecting this.  But what a definite surprise this was!  People always told me, “it will happen when you least expect it” I just never believed them.  She was about to smile as she suddenly thought Damn! We are both to check out of the hotel today. 

 

Lori felt Michelle stir a bit and banished her thoughts for the time being. 

 

Michelle’s hair was a disaster. The light amount of make-up she did have on was quite smeared and even her eyes seemed heavy. But in spite of all that, Lori wondered how it was possible for someone to wake up so beautiful and cute all at the same time. 

 

“What time is it?” Michelle grumbled, as she sat partially up.

“9:30” replied Lori.

Michelle turned her head to meet Lori’s eyes and glared at her “Are you one of those cheery morning types?”

Lori was about to say “no” when she suddenly realized she was actually quite happy this very morning.  She calmly replied “Probably just a one time thing.”

Michelle nodded in acceptance and then rubbed her face with her hands.

 

Lori went to place her hand on Michelle’s exposed bare back, just as Michelle whipped around to face Lori, laying her body haphazardly upon Lori’s.

 

Lori could tell by Michelle’s eyes that she was thinking something serious.  So she waited patiently.

 

Michelle took a deep breath “We have to check out at noon.”

“Yes.” Lori calmly replied, still not making the connection with the statement and the Michelle’s dark blue eyes.

“I have to go pack.”  Michelle attempted to quickly get off the bed.

“Whoa!”  Lori pulled her back in and held her close.  “You have plenty of time.  We have plenty of time. What’s going on?”

 

Instead of answering the question, Michelle asked one of her own.  “How do you DO that?!” 

 

Lori knew by the tone that Michelle wasn’t angry but definitely curious.

“What?” Lori asked.

“That you seem to know something is going on with me, almost before I do?”

“oh” Lori chuckled, “I told you. I have many skills”

 

That response not only got a comical expression from Michelle, but also earned Lori a face full of hotel pillow as Michelle proceeded to hit Lori repeatedly with it.

Lori, not a girl to back down from much, joined right in the pillow fight!

It didn’t last long of course, Lori was much quicker and had faster reflexes than Michelle, but both women laughed whole heartedly at their valiant efforts.

 

Lori felt almost silly for asking, but considering where they were, and what they had done, she asked “Would you like to take a shower with me?”

Michelle looked at Lori with a complete stillness in her face “Is that a serious question?”

Lori position herself so she was level with Michelle.  Not only level, but nose to nose, forehead to forehead and stated “Completely.”

Michelle jumped off the bed almost faster than Lori could blink as Lori heard the shower being turned on. 

Lori quietly chuckled to herself shook her head and smiled as she walked to the bathroom.  I guess that is a yes.

 

********************Chapter  11*************************************

 

Michelle was positioned closest to the shower spray with Lori standing behind her, washing her hair.  Michelle stood there almost motionless as she soaked up the attention Lori so freely gave to her.  Before Lori was finished washing Michelle’s hair Michelle unexpectedly turned around to face her. The movement was so sudden that Lori’s arms were still in the air where Michelle’s head once had been.

 

Michelle caught site of this and processed what had just happened as Lori began to lower her arms to her side.  Michelle grabbed onto her stomach and didn’t even pretend to hide her laughter.

 

Lori grabbed the soap from the dish and proceeded to wash her own body.  She would have been laughing right along with Michelle at the whole ordeal, but for some reason Lori always seemed more intrigued by simply watching Michelle than the situation that was before her.

 

Michelle’s laughter fit finally subsided and she resumed her composure as she took the soap from Lori’s hand and took over the task of washing her new lover. 

 

Lori stood there patiently and then finally asked “Were you going to say something?”

“huh?” Michelle replied as if she was dazed.

“Before your sudden laughter fit, didn’t you turn around to say something?” Lori stated.

“Oh. That.”  Michelle quietly said.

Lori waited. Then said “well?”

“hm? Oh. I forget now.”  Michelle seemed almost mesmerized.

 

Lori looked down at her naked body and teased Michelle gently “Honey, it’s not that I don’t appreciate it, but I don’t think you can get my breasts any cleaner.”

Lori didn’t quite understand Michelle’s amazement at her breasts, but she certainly wasn’t going to complain. 

 

As much as she enjoyed being with Michelle in this very moment, she was also well enough aware that they were now on a time limit.  They finished with their shower and headed back out into the hotel room.

 

Michelle stood there in the white hotel towel.

“What is it?” Lori asked as she was looking through her bag for her outfit.

“I don’t want to put those same clothes back on.” Michelle replied in a small pout.

“oh.” Lori looked from Michelle to the clothes on the floor and then back to Michelle.

“Honey, you are right next door, just run over there.” Lori flatly said.

“In my towel?!” Michelle exasperated.

 

Not able to help herself, Lori cocked her head to one side, arched an eyebrow and said a bit more seductively than she planned, “oh no. I want you to run out there with absolutely nothing on at all” as she pulled the towel off with one hand, and pulled Michelle into her with the other hand and continued to say “except this.” She kissed Michelle so completely that her knees almost buckled.

 

As both women stood there locked in their passionate kiss Lori realized that she, herself, was naked.  Not that she was physically naked, but rather her soul had been naked with this woman.  Wanting it or not, knowing it or not, it had happened. And Lori wasn’t at all prepared for it.  With that realization Lori broke off their intense kiss.  She told Michelle it was because of the time limit they were now under and assured her it was nothing else.

 

Fine time to be lying to her now, you just shared a bed with this woman! Made incredible love, like you never have before, and if you tell her your fears now, you may never make love to her again! Lori scolded herself.  She knew how fragile Michelle was. She had to be delicate; she had to be sure of herself and what she would say before she discussed any of it with Michelle.

 

Lori convinced Michelle to sneak out the door with just the towel on and her clothes in her hand.  Lori kissed her one more time before she shut the door. 

 

Lori was facing the door and leaned against it with her left hand, she hung her head and released a very shaky sigh.

 

Michelle closed her own hotel door and let the towel drop to the floor along with clothes in her other hand.  She searched through her bag for her underwear and bra.  She slipped on her jeans and then held her tank top up to look for wrinkles, she began to shake.

 

Michelle sat down on the bed, “What the fuck just happened!?” She wondered out loud.    Michelle knew there was something wrong in Lori’s last kiss.  She couldn’t exactly pin point it, but she knew something wasn’t quite right.

 

Her self doubt and fears began to attack her…

Did I just get seduced?

Does she have a girlfriend?

Did she do this type of thing a lot?

Her fears then gave way to anger…

I can’t believe she thought this was just a one night thing!

How dare she just usher me out the door!

How can someone make such sweet love, and then push you out like that?!

 

Her anger became a flood of tears before she could react and not wanting Lori to know how devastated she was, she simply walked to the bathroom and shut the door.

 

***********************Chapter 12*******************************

 

Since Lori was a rather orderly person, maybe with the exception of last night, she didn’t have a hard time packing.  She took one more glance around the room and in the bathroom before she hefted her bag on her shoulder.  She paused at Michelle’s door, and was going to offer to help because she remembered Michelle had said something about “going through two bags to find her debit card.”  But she quickly decided against it figuring it would be easier to get her self situated and then come back in to help Michelle.

 

Lori stopped at the front desk and took care of any last minute details and walked out into the bright sunshine of the day.  She put on her sunglasses, and made her way to the Montero.  She threw her bag in the back seat and carefully placed the plastic cup with the water and white rose in a cup holder.  She plugged in her cell and reviewed any messages.

 

It occurred to Lori just then, that she and Michelle never discussed what type of vehicle Michelle came in.  Not that it was an issue really, but Lori realized she didn’t even know where she should be looking or at what. She calmed herself down by saying “she knows my SUV, she’ll come find me.” 

 

After about 10 minutes of waiting and listening to her ipod, Lori decided to go in and check on Michelle. 

 

She walked back through the lobby and as she walked down the hall she was humming one of her favorite Melissa Ferrick tunes.  She also thought, some women just take longer than others.

 

She approached Michelle’s door and knocked. 

She waited.

She knocked again.

She waited.

 

This time she leaned in and put her ear against the door. There was no music, no singing, no anything as far as she could tell.

 

Lori simply shrugged her shoulders and headed back towards the lobby.  As she passed the front desk, the lady behind it said “Oh! I’m so glad I caught you, I thought you had already left.  This was left for you.”  She handed Lori a note.

 

It took Lori a few minutes to comprehend the writing, it seemed like it was written with someone who was very nervous or……

 

Shaky.

 

Lori looked at the front desk clerk and asked quite sternly “How long ago was this left here?” 

The woman behind the desk was startled a little bit at the tone, but answered “No more than five minutes ago.  I went in back to look up your last name, because the young lady said she didn’t know it. She only had your room number.  Then when I returned, she was gone, but you were here.”

 

Lori was perplexed at the moment, How could we have missed walking by one another?

 

The clerk must have put the pieces together when she empathetically said “There’s also a side exit just down the hall.”

 

“Shit!” was all Lori muttered a she ran out the lobby.

 

Lori scanned the parking lot one more time before she got into the Montero.  She flipped open her phone, and then suddenly stopped. 

 

“Fuck!” she shouted and her anger started to boil.

 

After a few deep breaths Lori released the fist she was making and tried to straighten out the note she had lodged in her hand.  Great! She thought, as if it wasn’t already hard enough to read!   

 

Michelle was settled in her Jeep and on her way home as she started to recollect how she had just rounded the corner as Lori come back into the hotel lobby.  She remembered thinking that her heart was beating so loud that it was going to give away where she was.  Oddly enough, it hadn’t.

 

Michelle had been pulling out of the parking lot, she watched in her rearview mirror as Lori came running out of the hotel lobby.  She had instinctively opened her mouth to scream out Lori’s name but when she had, no sound came out. 

 

Michelle shook her head to shake away the thoughts and focused on the road.  Her attention span didn’t last long as her thoughts kept berating her.  She was trying to think positive and was failing miserably at it.

She was trying to convince herself a love so soon discovered and trusted was going to end up hurting her anyway.

It was best she left like she did. 

Trying to convince herself that one night stands happen all the time.

To a lot of people and that it would all be ok.

 

She wiped away the tears that were now falling as more thoughts attacked her

It’s better she doesn’t know where I live. 

It’s best she doesn’t have my phone number.

Its best she didn’t…………..

Why the hell didn’t she even ask for my last name!!!

 

Michelle couldn’t handle her own thoughts anymore as she pulled off to the side of the road and sobbed her head against her steering wheel.

******************************Chapter 13***********

As Lori glanced at the time in the SUV, her cell phone rang.

"Yeah" Lori stated flatly.

"I just got home and found some quiet time, what the hell is going on?" Asked Lori’s best friend, Clare.

Lori had known Clare for about 10 years. They met at work, and became friends fast. Clare is married and has two kids, but their friendship never revolved around their sexual preferences. It was deeper than that.

Lori took such a deep breath that Clare heard it clearly over the phone and then asked, "Can you fall completely in love and have your heart broken in a matter of two days?"

Clare knowing Lori the way she did knew this was something big. Lori wasn’t one to use the "L" word, if at all. Clare also knew that Lori didn’t fall for just anyone. Lori was very protective of her heart and didn’t offer it easily.

"Shit." Clare responded. "Where are you?"
"About two hours away."
Clare did the math quickly and was about to question it when Lori interrupted her thoughts.
"I know. I missed a few exits."
Clare’s heart went out to Lori. She knew she was an excellent navigator. "What can I do, Lori?"
"I don’t know right now."
"Give me the synopsis." Clare wanted to make sure she had the situation right in her mind.|
"Well, something happened right before we checked out." Lori said.
"Ok. Like what something?"
"I think I suddenly realized that I love her. It came out of no where Clare. It was like I was hit by a ton of bricks or something."
Clare could relate, she felt a similar thing when she knew her husband was the one.
Lori continued on "I didn’t think she picked up on it. I was just going to talk about it with her later. At another time.  When I actually had a clear understanding of it myself."
"Understandable."
"Everything went to hell right after that. She took off. I don’t know what to do."

"Lori, I know you almost better than you know yourself. You aren’t going to sit there and tell me you just drove away and left?"
"What else could I do Clare!" Lori yelled.
Clare took a breath and knew her friend was quite upset. She didn’t want to make matters worse.
"Give me a minute." Clare said as Lori could hear some rustling through the phone.

Lori pulled into a rest area. She hadn’t realized how tight she was gripping the steering wheel until the pain of blood flow went searing through her fingers. She turned off the SUV and waited for Clare.

"Ok" Clare said "Which artist did you say you were going to see?"
Lori sighed and said "Natalia, why?"  Lori could hear that Clare was at a keyboard and typing something.
"And the city? Oh never mind" Clare had said before Lori could say anything.
Lori heard some more typing. She rubbed her forehead with her free hand while she waited. She was starting to get a headache.
"Well, would you look at that?" Clare said with a triumphant smile.
"Clare." Lori scolded, but could tell by Clare’s tone it was something beneficial.
"Lori, sweetie, you just keep on driving. Apparently your darling Michelle is only two more hours from you."
There was no response from Lori.
"Hello?!?!? Lori?" Clare looked at her cell for a lost signal display. There wasn’t one.
Clare was about to say something when she thought she heard Lori gasp.
"....She’s....How the hell did you find that out?!" Lori suddenly demanded of her friend.
"You can’t be the only one with skills you know!" Clare teased her friend.
"Clare, you don’t know how much I love you at this moment."
Clare smiled and it was evident through the phone as she gave Lori Michelle’s address and said "Drive safe my friend."

Lori hung up the phone and took a few deep breaths and knew she had to plan out an alternate route. Unfortunately, whatever it was that Clare was looking at, it only gave Michelle’s home address and not a phone number of any kind. Lori thought that was odd, but knew it was better than nothing.

Michelle was about a half hour from her house. She could admit to the fact she didn’t remember the last 50 miles or so. Even when she tried to recall the traffic, she just couldn’t. She also knew she shouldn’t be driving in her emotional state of mind, but she didn’t know what else to do. She didn’t know where else to go.

She was quite sad still but stopped placing the blame solely on Lori. She was an adult, even if she didn’t act like one most of the time. She participated just as much as Lori had in whatever it was that had just happened between them.

It was she who knocked on Lori’s door.
It was she who touched Lori first.
It was she who pounced on top of Lori on Lori’s bed.

Yeah. She knew she was at fault for not asking Lori’s last name, or not getting her phone number, and for not finding out where she lived. She was at fault for not asking the same things of Lori that Michelle was so hurt that Lori hadn’t asked of her.

She pulled into her garage and sighed.

Michelle’s house was small, but she was proud of it. It was a plain white on the outside with a small yard. It was a two bedroom house, and she used the smaller of the two rooms for the office. She had her white tiger and angel collections proudly displayed all over. But there wasn’t much else in the way of art on her white walls. And she liked it that way.

Michelle grabbed her bags and her other items and walked to her front door. She unlocked the door, and was greeted with a stern "meow" from her cat.

"Yeah, hi to you too. I hope your weekend was better than mine." She told her cat. Her cat responded by simply sticking its tail in the air and walking away from her.

She tossed her clothes in the washer. She knew that even if she didn’t put them away right out of the dryer, that at least they were clean.

She plopped down on her gray oversized chair with a water bottle in hand. Her cat then decided to plop itself in her lap. She pet her cat absent mindedly as she started to think of things her ex had often said to her:

How can you be so selfish?
Why are you so needy?
Why can’t you make time for me?
Why do you over react to every little thing?

She winced at that last thought, but also gave it some serious thought.

***************ChAPTer 14***************************

Lori had jotted down directions from mapquest she had gotten from her cell. She double checked what she wrote down and she looked feverishly for the correct exit signs.

She knew traffic was passing her but she wasn’t really watching.
She knew her music was playing but she wasn’t really listening.
She was calmly trying to figure out what to say to Michelle once she got to her house.

She’ll forgive me for this one little freak out I had, right? She asked herself.

I didn’t run when she was crying, I stayed and I held her. Lori mentally kicked herself, she knew this wasn’t about keeping score and who held who last. She knew better than that. She knew this wasn’t about playing mind games.

Yeah, Michelle is a little high strung she admitted to herself but her eyes, her kisses, that smile. Those were the things Lori now focused on. Those were the things Lori believed in.

Lori recalled their love making. How innocent and unplanned it had all been.
How they seemed to know each other with out barely saying a word.
How their hearts were involved even before their bodies interacted.
Lori glanced at the crumpled note lying on her passenger seat.

I’m So Sorry was all it had said. Lori couldn’t imagine what Michelle might have been thinking when she wrote it. And she wasn’t about to start.  However, Lori almost started to second guess her decision about driving to Michelle’s house. 

What if she left because she didn’t want to see me?
What if she left because I was only….

She forced herself to stop.  She knew what she felt.  She knew what their love making had meant.  Plus, she was too close to Michelle’s house to turn around now. And there was something else nagging at her.

She recalled seeing Michelle in the hallway for the first time. Her hair. Her wet t-shirt. Her jeans spattered with water marks. Lori smiled at the thought.

How lucky I was that she rambled on like she did, I really hadn’t known what to say to her at that moment. How beautiful she was just standing there in the hallway. Lori knew she would forever tuck away that first vision of Michelle.

Lori pulled into a gas station and confirmed her directions. She got a Pepsi and some fruit to snack on. She got a Hershey candy bar just for the heck of it too. She stretched out a few times and told herself she was doing the right thing. Back on her way and less than a half hour away from Michelle’s house, her mind began to recall some more of their time together.

Lori recalled Michelle singing, how they both laughed easily at Denny’s, and when Michelle had laughed in the shower that very morning. Lori knew she was already missing Michelle’s laugh.

Lori’s breasts suddenly ached for Michelle’s touch. Her kiss. Her tongue. Her hands. All of this thinking now made Lori’s entire body ache for Michelle, all of Michelle.

Lori’s stomach began to knot up. Her vision began to blur. Her throat seemed suddenly dry.

Lori knew in that instant that it wasn’t her breasts that ached for Michelle, but simply her heart, and it was telling her that she has to go through with this. No matter the outcome.

Hold on. She told herself. Just hold on.

********************Chapter 15**********************************

Michelle would never admit out loud to anyone that yeah, her ex was probably right.  She did over react to a lot of things. But she thought to herself if she really had loved me, it wouldn’t have mattered to her. If she had loved me at all it wouldn’t have even been an issue.

Michelle bolted up right from the chair she had been sitting on, scaring her cat in the process as he went running to the bedroom and dropping her water bottle to the floor.  She stood in place as her mind went flying through the last two days.

 

Lori fixed the showerhead when you were too much of a chicken shit to call the front desk. 

Lori guided you into her room when you broke down in the hallway the next morning.

Lori let you sing in her SUV with out even mocking you.

Lori let you laugh at her with out judgment at Denny’s when you had breakfast.

Lori held you when you cried AGAIN, with out attacking you before you made love.

Made love.

Made love. 

 

The actual words penetrated through Michelle much like a lightning bolt pierces through the sky.

“Oh my god!” Michelle said out loud. “What the hell have I done?!”  Michelle paced around the house for about 10 minutes trying to figure out what to do.

 

Do I make the drive back to the Hotel? She thought as she walked through the bedroom.

Would Lori still even be there?! She thought as she walked into the kitchen.

 

“Shit!” Michelle screamed as she threw her hands up in the air. 

“Think Michelle! Think!”  She yelled at herself.

 

“Ok. You were too much of an idiot to find out her last name.  So no looking up her phone number or address.”  Michelle rolled her eyes at her own behavior.  She paced the living room floor.

 

“And you were too much of a god damn baby to find out her last name from the hotel clerk……..” Michelle stopped in mid thought. 

“The clerk!” She screamed.  She went flying to the kitchen and found her cell phone.

Michelle fumbled through the call history and found the number of the hotel with shaky hands.  She dialed the number and waited for the connection.

 

1 ring.  “C’mon, pick up!” Michelle demanded.

2 rings. “Dammit!” Michelle’s frustration was evident.

“Good Morning! This is Linda, thank you for calling……”

“Yeah, yeah. Look…” Michelle interrupted.  “I was just there about 3 hours ago, and I need some information about a guest.”

“I’m sorry. We do not give out………….” Linda was saying as she was interrupted again.

“Ugh! I know.  You don’t give out personal information, it’s against policy, yeah, I get that, I get that.” 

Both women paused.

“ok.” Michelle’s brain was starting to get control of her as she calmed down a little.

“Can we do this in a kind of reverse way?”

“I don’t know if I understand what you mean?” Linda said.

Michelle often forgot that many people didn’t follow her same thought process, and she was irritated by that, because she was even worse at trying to explain herself.

“Were you working there this morning, around check out time?” Michelle asked Linda.

“Yes. I have been here since 7am.”

“Ok. Good. Do you remember a woman who was crying, and handed you a note?”

“hmmmm.  Yes! I felt so bad for her.”

Michelle half smiled, at least she felt like she was starting to get somewhere.  “That woman who left the note is me, and I understand that you can’t give me any information, so can you at least tell me if that other woman, the one I left the note for, received it and if possible if she checked out?”

 

“Yes, she did receive it, and it isn’t my place to say, but she seemed quite upset about it.”

Michelle nodded her head and rolled her eyes as she heard Linda typing on a keyboard.

“Yes, it does also show that she has already checked out.” Linda told Michelle.

“Ok.” Michelle responded. Not knowing what else to do at this moment.  “Thank you.”

“You are welcome.”  Linda paused and then quickly added “Good luck.”

“yeah, thanks” Michelle responded to no one in particular.

Michelle looked out her living room window because she noticed a SUV slowly going by.  She sat there for a minute just staring out the window, thinking her mind must be playing some dirty trick on her.

Wow! That looks exactly like the SUV Lori was driving.  Michelle thought.

“Don’t be an idiot Michelle, there are plenty of SUV’s like that!  Same color, same model, same year……”  Michelle scolded herself as she got up from the kitchen table. 

 

She went into her office area and sat down at the desk.  She decided to try and list some facts that might be able to help her.

1. 1.      Lori rented the SUV from Enterprise.  Because I saw the receipt sitting on the dashboard when we went to breakfast.
2. 2.      Lori drove to the hotel, by herself.  She can’t be more than 5 hours away, who would drive more than that for a singer?

 

Michelle tapped the pen on the paper and she forced herself to think of more facts.

She’s handy with out tools, and apparently watches Xena!  Even though this brought a smile to Michelle’s face, she also knew it wasn’t helping her.

 

“Damn!” Michelle said as she crumpled up the paper and tossed it in the trash. 

 

She walked out of the office and then went in the pantry to put the clothes in the dryer.  She walked back to the living room and picked up her water bottle she had dropped earlier.  She plopped back down in her chair still wondering what she could do, trying to think of something, anything at all, to help her locate Lori.

 

Hm. I wonder if I could call the hotel back and give them my permission to give out my phone number if Lori happens to call there?

“No. That could get complicated.”  Michelle told herself.

 

She got up from the chair and went into the kitchen.  She wasn’t hungry, but knew she had to do something to occupy her mind for the time being.

 

After some time, she left the kitchen empty handed. She was about to sit down again when she looked out the window.  She noticed the SUV from earlier parked against the curb on the other side of the street.  It didn’t appear to be running, and someone was sitting in the driver’s seat.

 

Someone who……… LOOKED LIKE LORI!!!

 

Michelle froze in front of the window and she willed herself to keep breathing and then pleaded with her knees to keep her upright.

******************************************Chapter 16**********************************

 

 

Lori parked the SUV and took a few long deep breaths.  She still hadn’t quite worked out what she wanted to say to Michelle or if Michelle wanted to even see her.

 

Lori looked at her piece of paper, then up at the house and then down at her piece of paper again, to double check the house address was correct.

 

“Now or never.” She muttered to herself and she got out of the SUV and proceeded to cross the street.

 

Michelle knew for sure that it was Lori who was now walking across the street…and towards her house.  How beautiful she is, walking so confident, her tan skin, her dark purple T-shirt, light brown khaki shorts.

Michelle ran towards her front door.

Lori approached the door and raised her hand to knock on it when the door flew open.

Michelle stood there just staring at Lori. It was as if she couldn’t believe she was really there, in the flesh and in person not just a figment of her imagination.

Lori just stood there too.  She was trying to read Michelle’s eyes.  Look for a smile or something. Anything to let her know it was ok for her to be there.  Her worse thought was all she can do at this point is slam the door in my face.

 

Michelle for once didn’t ramble on. 

Lori wasn’t quite expecting that.  However, the door remained opened. 

It was Lori who finally spoke first.

 

“Hi.”  Lori fumbled with her keys in her hands.  But kept her eyes locked on Michelle.

“Hi.”  Michelle gripped the door knob so tight she thought she might have sprained her finger.

“I’m sorry I showed up like this unexpectedly.”  Lori felt a bit tongue tied.  She didn’t want to explain anything at all.  She just wanted to hold Michelle and kiss her and tell her how much she loved her.

 

“Hm.” Michelle was trying to figure out why Lori was here, much less how she found her home address.  Michelle’s hurt feelings resurfaced before she was even aware of it and blurted out “Why are you even here?!”

 

Lori was about to take a step backwards, but instead felt her body moving forward.

She held onto her keys in her left hand, and forcefully placed her right hand against the door to hold it open.  She took two steps forward and was now directly towering over Michelle.

 

Michelle didn’t expect such a sudden move, and almost tripped over her own feet as she stumbled backwards and met the wall with her backside.

 

Lori lowered her head just a bit, so that they were looking into each others eyes.  Lori stared so deeply into Michelle’s eyes that she thought it might be her who cried this time.

Neither woman moved.

Neither woman spoke. 

Lori opened her mouth to explain herself, but then stopped.  She knew there wasn’t anything to actually say at this point.  She kissed Michelle full, hard, and passionately.

 

Michelle returned the kiss, but kept her back up against the wall.  While they were still kissing, Lori slowly pushed the door closed with her hand and leaned into Michelle.  Lori dropped her keys and they fell to the floor as their hands found one another.  They broke off their kiss to take a much needed breath but remained holding one another.

Michelle looked at Lori like a little kid who just got caught doing something it wasn’t supposed to and said ever so softly “I’m sorry I behave like a child.”

Lori’s eyes had never left Michelle’s as she said “Don’t you realize, that is what I love about you most?  I’ve smiled and laughed more in the last two days with you, than I probably have in the last two years!” Lori wasn’t kidding.

 

The concept was completely foreign to Michelle.  She knew how ridiculous she could be. She knew how wrong she could be.  She knew how spoiled she acted most of the time. 

How could anyone love that? She began to think.

 

Michelle’s brows creased and asked Lori “Seriously, how did you get my home address?”

But before Lori could begin to answer, Michelle stated “SKILLS!! I know! I know!!”

To that comment Lori just arched her eyebrow and smiled.

 

The two women stared at each other for a few minutes more.  Michelle finally took every ounce of her being and hugged Lori so tightly that Lori thought Michelle might actually suffocate her.  Just as Michelle was about to release her hold on Lori she quietly said “I love you” into Lori’s ear.

 

Lori smiled so completely and full of love that she picked Michelle up in her arms in one swift motion and said “Actions speak louder than words, my love.”  And, just to prove her point, she carried Michelle off to her bedroom and proceeded to show her exactly which actions she had in mind!! 

 

********CHaptER 17*********************************

 

Michelle had fallen asleep on her back, and Lori was on her side, her arm across Michelle’s stomach, and her leg partially entwined with Michelle’s.

Michelle was the first to awake this time, due to her stomach growling. She smiled to herself as she thought about the last thing Lori had said to her actions speak louder than words, my love.  She repeated the thought many times to herself, so that she would always remember it.

 

Michelle’s stomach growled in protest once again, so she slowly and regrettably untangled herself from Lori.   She paused at the side of the bed just to make sure she didn’t wake her lover up.  Once she knew she had not, she pulled on a long T-shirt and quietly shuffled off to the kitchen.

 

She turned on the small light by the sink, and debated about what to make.  She thought omelets were a safe decision, since they both had them at Denny’s the other morning. She pulled out all the ingredients and began cooking.

 

She leaned against the counter with a dumbfounded look upon her face.  How incredibly fast your life could change when you weren’t prepared for it.  She knew she had a goofy grin on her face at the moment, but she didn’t care.

 

She put the omelets on two plates, and grabbed some chocolate milk for each of them.

She steadily walked her way back to the bedroom.  Once there, she paused in the doorway and took a moment just to look at Lori.  So calm. So peaceful. She shook her head wondering how this woman could handle her so unbelievable well.

 

As she set their breakfast down on the bed, Lori stretched, yawn, and leaned up on her elbow.

 

“Hey” Michelle said sweetly, so not to scare her.

“Hey there yourself” Lori replied with a sweet sounding raspy voice.

“I made us some breakfast.”

“Yeah, so I see. It smells delicious.”

“Well, I’m no great cook, but I promise you won’t get sick from eating it!”

Both women chuckled as they settled in for their snack.

 

They both ate quietly occupied by their thoughts, or drained from their love making. Maybe a little bit of both.

Lori was the first to finish eating, so she got up and made her way to the bathroom.  Once she returned, she noticed Michelle had also finished eating as well.  Lori gathered up all the dishes walked to the kitchen and placed them in the sink.  When she entered the bedroom, she noticed Michelle quietly giggling.

 

“What?” Lori paused in the doorway.

Michelle mumbled something Lori couldn’t quite hear.  Lori hopped onto the bed and straddled Michelle.

“Say that again?”  Lori asked as she leaned in real close to Michelle, just inches from her face.

“You’re naked!” Michelle whispered with a giggle that surprised both of them.

Lori looked down at herself and said with a mock shriek “Oh my god!!”  She then dashed under the covers along with Michelle.

Michelle found this incredibly funny and laughed out loud.

Lori was holding the sheet up to her face covering her mouth and nose.  Her eyes were darting back and forth. 

“Shh!” Lori said.

Michelle was able to stifle her laugh audibly, but she was still laughing because she made the bed shake just a little.  Michelle assumed the same position as Lori was in.

“I don’t know if this is going to work between us.” Lori said.

“Why? What are you talking about?”

“You have clothes thieves in your house. I don’t know if I can be a part of that.”

Michelle caught on quickly, and decided to play the game.

“Well,” Michelle said “they have been very nice to me so far, maybe you should just give them a try.”

“Wait!” Lori said rather loudly as she pointed a finger towards the closet.

Since the closet was behind Michelle, she had to literally turn her body and look at the closet.

“I don’t see anything...”  Michelle stated.

Lori leaned in against Michelle’s back and whispered “don’t you see it? It’s one of them.”

Michelle smiled and said “no, honey, I don’t.”

“Careful” Lori whispered.

Before Michelle could turn around to face Lori once again, she felt her T-shirt being tugged off of her.

Lori threw the T-shirt t across the room and said “see, there goes one of them right now!!”

Both woman chuckled once again and found themselves entwined in each other’s arms.

 

Lori gazed into Michelle’s eyes.  She reached out and stroked her face with her hand. Michelle leaned in to the touch.  Lori moved in ever so slowly and kissed Michelle.  Lightly.  Softly.  Tenderly.

 

Lori drew back from the kiss and said “You have no idea how beautiful you are, do you?”

Michelle only blinked a few times, as if she was trying to comprehend what Lori just said. Instead of responding, Michelle just simply leaned in and kissed Lori again.

 

Michelle had a sudden flash back of the first time they had made love in the hotel room. She remembered wanting to do all those things to Lori that Lori had done to her.  So she presumed to do just that.

 

She lightly kissed her lips, her eye lids, her cheeks, and her neck.  Michelle slowly moved her way down Lori’s body.  She paid extra attention to Lori’s breasts.  So beautiful is all Michelle could think about when she looked at Lori’s naked body.  She slowly licked and kissed and teased her way down Lori’s stomach.

Michelle loved the way Lori moaned and groaned in response.  Michelle decided to use her fingernails and make slow gentle patterns on Lori’s stomach and thighs, as she welcomed in Lori’s wetness with her tongue. 

Lori’s intake of breath was answered by Michelle’s “Mmmm, you taste so good.”  Michelle pressed a little harder with her fingernails on Lori’s flesh, and then did the same with her tongue.  Lori clenched the sheets with her hands. 

Michelle removed her mouth and replaced it with her hand.  Lori cried out she couldn’t manage to form any words.  Michelle interlocked her free hand with Lori’s.  Michelle moved in and out of her faster and faster with her other hand.  She could feel Lori’s inside start to swell.  She noticed Lori’s face turning red and the small sheen of sweat across her body.  Michelle marveled at how stunning Lori looked.  What a miraculous picture it would be to capture her soul so open and free. Just as Michelle was basking in that thought, Lori’s body released.

 

Lori lay there quietly and exhausted as Michelle removed her hand tenderly.  Michelle leaned back down and slowly planted light small kisses from Lori’s toes all the way to the tip of her head.  Michelle kissed everywhere she could find exposed skin.   

Michelle lay down and began to snuggle against Lori just as Lori somehow had the strength to wrap her arms around Michelle and whisper “never leave me.’

Lori had already started to drift off to sleep as Michelle lay there with her eyes wide open, not believing what she had just heard. 

 

*****************************Chapter 18******************

 

Michelle grumbled at the sun that was now pouring in through her window.  She tossed the blanket over her head with a grunt.  As she changed positions she realized Lori wasn’t in the bed.  Michelle tossed the blanket off of herself and peered at the bathroom.  The door was open.  She must be in the kitchen. Michelle thought to herself.  She listened quietly, but didn’t hear any noises coming from the kitchen or anywhere else for that matter! She lazily crawled out of bed and went in search of Lori.

 

Since the house was rather small, it didn’t take Michelle long.  She already knew Lori wasn’t in the bedroom or bathroom.  She peeked in the office. No sign of her.  The living room and kitchen were basically open, and she didn’t see her in either of those rooms either.  Michelle peered out the living room window well thankfully the SUV is still here! She can’t be too far!

 

Michelle opened the front door and saw Lori sitting on the cement steps.  Michelle went to say something, but then stopped as she heard Lori talking into the phone.

“Look, I just can’t, alright?”

“I don’t owe you an explanation for anything!”

“You are going to do what?”

“Is that a threat?”

 

Michelle didn’t know whether to stay or go.  The conversation was obviously personal because Lori went outside to make it.  However, Michelle’s curiosity won out and she stayed standing there leaning against the door.

“I don’t care.”

“No.”

“Fine.”

Lori hung up her cell and resumed sitting there. She was unaware Michelle was behind her.  Michelle cleared her throat to let Lori know she was there.

Lori didn’t turn around or respond right away.  She was deep in thought.  Michelle cleared her throat again, a bit louder this time.

Lori got up with a disgusted sigh and blankly looked at Michelle. It was almost as if Lori had looked right through Michelle, as if she wasn’t there at all.  Lori walked right past Michelle as she said “I can’t believe she is doing this!”

Michelle heard the tone and also caught the she in the statement.  Michelle closed the door and proceeded to follow Lori to the bedroom.

“What was that all about?” Michelle asked.

“Nothing!” Lori stammered.

Michelle stood in the doorway for a moment and then said “It obviously wasn’t “nothing” since you seem all upset.”

“Look, can we just not talk about it, alright?”

“Fine. Sure.”

Michelle watched Lori go around the room impatiently and grab her things.

Lori went past Michelle and made her way out of the house and walk to her SUV.

Michelle stood at the living room window watching after Lori.

 

Lori threw the few things she had in her hands into the SUV. She stood there with the driver’s door open and paused.  “Shit!”  Lori exclaimed as she braced her hands on the top of the SUV and leaned on them. 

 

I can’t believe she is doing this.

After all these years.

She can’t just allow this for me?

After everything I have done for her.  All the times I have covered for her and been there for her……..

Lori shook her head in disbelief.

 

Michelle didn’t know what to do. Should she run out there?  Lori already said she didn’t want to talk about it.  Michelle’s mind nagged at her as she kept recalling Lori say ‘I can’t believe she is doing this.’  Before her thoughts could nag her anymore, she saw Lori turn around and slam the SUV door closed.

 

Lori opened the door to the house and walked into the living room. She walked up to Michelle and hugged her tightly.  Lori didn’t say anything, just continued to hug her.

Once Lori released her she told Michelle to sit down.

Lori stayed standing, she had some pent up energy to stifle.

“I don’t know where to start.”  She said to Michelle.

Michelle on the other hand, didn’t know where to stop!  Her mind was already racing in a million different directions. 

Michelle fought down so many other words as she choked out “Are you leaving?”

Before Lori could think she said “Yes. I have to.”  As she heard the words, it was too late.  Michelle already had bolted for the bedroom and slammed the door.

Lori walked to the door and knocked on it.  “Michelle? C’mon. Open up.  Michelle?  Honey, I want to talk to you about this, please?”

Michelle suddenly yanked open the door and looked Lori in the eyes and said with a disgusted tone “Go tell it to your girlfriend!” 

Lori’s mind quickly wrapped around what Michelle had said and before Michelle could slam the door again, Lori pushed her way through into the bedroom.

Lori grabbed Michelle’s by the shoulders and said quite sternly “Look!  Just listen for a minute, ok?”

Michelle slowly sat on the bed. 

Lori unexpectedly asked “Do you always jump to conclusions?”

 

Michelle’s eyes narrowed and she shot up on to her feet and she was about to yell at Lori when Lori grabbed her by the shoulders again and kissed her hard and strong.

 

“Listen.” Lori stated.

 Michelle eyes were still narrow, but her mouth was shut.  She was willing to listen.

“I understand what that situation must have seemed like…”

Michelle crossed her arms over her chest in response.

“It’s not like that at all.”  Lori continued “the she is my boss.”

Michelle’s brows creased trying to fill in the story in her mind.  “What?”

“Honey, it’s Monday you realize…..I’m supposed to be at work right now.”

Michelle hadn’t thought of it at all.  She already had the day scheduled off, and with Lori showing up at her door, and the lovemaking they did, Michelle actually lost track of the days.  She slowly was trying to piece it all together and sat down reluctantly on the bed.  A quiet “oh” is all Michelle had to offer in response.

 

Lori paced the small area as she continued explaining.  “yeah.  Well, I’ve worked for her for over 20 years.  And what has me so upset is that there have been countless times I have covered for her with vendors when she went to sneak off on some lunch date…that wasn’t with her husband.  And now she won’t even allow the fact that I am not there today…….” 

 

“But I heard you say ‘threat’, what was that……”  Before Michelle could finish her sentence, they both simultaneously looked at each other and said “Fired.”

 

***********Chapter 19************************************

 

Both women agreed that it would be best to go outside for a while to finish their discussion.  They took Michelle’s Jeep to a nearby park. It wasn’t a long drive, so both women sat quietly preoccupied with their own thoughts.  Lori grabbed Michelle’s hand, just to reassure her everything was fine. Or maybe it was to reassure herself? Lori moved her thumb slowly over Michelle’s hand.  She loved the feel of her skin.

 

There were plenty available places to sit on the benches since there were not many people around this time of day and there was a slight breeze that blew in now and then.  The sun was out, but it wasn’t bearing down.  It was a nice brisk day and both women took it in.   

 

“Do you really think she’ll fire you for missing one day?” Michelle asked as they walked towards a bench to sit down.

“I really am not sure.  I’d like to think that she wouldn’t….but she sounded so serious on the phone.”

“Maybe she was just in shock, having been there for 20 years, and then all of the sudden not show up…..I’d bet it was just shock.  Maybe she thought something more serious had happened to you, so when you called, she just decided to be angry.”

Lori’s blue eyes just stared at a tree in the distance with its leaves blowing in the wind. Her shoulder brown hair was being tossed about when the wind decided it wanted to play.  She wasn’t ignoring Michelle by any means, just processing what she was saying.

There was some silence between the two women for a bit.

 

“Lori?”

“Hm?”

“I understand this isn’t the best time, but I have to ask you something really serious.”  Michelle shuffled her feet beneath the bench they were sitting on like she was a little kid.

Lori faced Michelle to let her know she was listening.

“What is your last name?”

Lori blinked a few times, it was a completely unexpected question.

“That’s your serious question?!”  Lori half chuckled.

“Well..yeah!! I mean after the whole ordeal with the hotel, and then you almost taking off again from this morning….”

“Keates.”

“oh. Ok. Thank you.”

“You are welcome.”

Lori resumed staring at the tree she was watching previously.  A gentle breeze blew just then. Almost as if it was reminding Lori to take a deep breath herself.

“What’s yours?”  Lori asked rather blankly.

“Myers.” Michelle responded quietly.

Lori simply nodded to acknowledge Michelle’s response.

 

Michelle placed her hand along side Loris their pinky fingers touching, she didn’t know how Lori would feel about public displays of affection.

Lori felt Michelle’s hand next to hers, and turned her head to look at both their hands.  She looked up at Michelle and smiled, then grabbed her hand and held on to it tightly.

 

“I’m sorry if I caused a big mess for you at work.” Michelle said quietly.

“It’s not your fault at all honey, I am the one who drove out to come find you.”

“yes, that’s true, but if I hadn’t left like some spoiled……..”

“Stop. I’m not playing mind games with you. I’m not placing blame. I just need to figure out what to do right now.”

Michelle held Lori’s hand a little tighter. She wasn’t used to someone being so calm, so in control.  She wasn’t sure how to behave with out someone blaming her. She wasn’t sure how to feel when something wasn’t being placed as her fault.  She would deal with those issues later, right now she made up her mind to help her new lover in any way she could.

 

“You’ll have to leave tonight and go straighten everything out with her tomorrow.”  Michelle blurted out.

“yeah. Maybe.”

“What do you mean maybe?”

“I mean maybe by the fact, if she has really fired me, then I don’t need to leave.”

“Oh.  If she has fired you, what will you do?”

“Find a new job.”

“But you’ll start at the bottom again. Entry level.”

“Yes. But there isn’t another option for me right now.”

“I don’t know how you stay so calm.  I’d be crying my eyes out.”

That statement got a small smile out of Lori. Partially because she knew Michelle was being truthful, but also because it made her realize their differences were actually strengths to help the relationship not hinder it.

“I stay calm because I know crying won’t help.  And I have just never been one to cry I guess.”

“You are lucky.”

“Because I don’t cry?”

“No. Because you don’t cry easily.”

“Perhaps.”

 

The two women decided to stroll through the park. They idly watched some birds fly overhead; they watched an elderly couple pass them by also holding hands and took in the scenery.  They walked through the town commenting on the buildings and people that they passed.  They held hands the entire time and smiled at one another often.  They made their way back to the Jeep and drove to the grocery store. They decided they would make their first dinner together.  They split up in the store and meet back at the check out lane.

 

Lori kept bumping Michelle’s cart with her own.

“Feeling better I take it?”

“MMM. Much.”

Michelle looked at Lori quite puzzled.  What the heck got into her?  What aisle did she go down that made her so happy?

 Michelle paid for her items and was going to do the same for the items in Lori shopping cart but as she turned back around she heard Lori say “thanks!” to the cashier.  Lori proceeded to push her cart right past Michelle with a very playful grin on her face. 

“I was going to pay for those items.”  Michelle said as they made their way outside and to the Jeep.

“I know.”

“So why didn’t you let me?”

Lori stopped abruptly cart and all “What?! You must have your way all the time?”

Michelle was about to say ‘yes’ when she knew that wasn’t entirely true.  Michelle also realized that was simply a rhetorical question as Lori continued walking with out waiting for a reply.

After the Jeep was loaded and both women in their seats, Michelle exclaimed “That’s it!” as she hit her steering wheel with her hands.

“What’s it?” 

“It just hit me who you reminded me of!”

“And that would be who?”

“No. Actually what you remind me of.”

“What!?”

“You remind me of a what not a who.”

“Are you speaking in some Dr. Seuss code I don’t know about yet?”

“No.”  Michelle leaned back towards her driver’s window a bit and continued to say “But I do love him! How did you know that?”

“I’d like blame it on my skills again, but I saw the books in your bedroom on the shelf.”

“Oh!”  Michelle laughed.  “Damn! You are quite observant.”

“You have no idea.”

Michelle felt tingles pass through her entire body.

“Well?” Lori inquired.

“What?” Michelle asked as she started up the Jeep.

“What is it that I remind you of?”

“Oh!  With that mysterious grin you were sporting back there, you reminded me of the Cheshire Cat from…”

“Alice in Wonderland. Yeah, I’ve seen it.”

“What’s wrong? You aren’t amused?”

Lori looked out the window and crossed her arms at her chest.

“It was a huge compliment you know?  That cat has a sexy smile!”

Since Lori was still facing the window, Michelle couldn’t see Lori’s delighted smile as Michelle attempted to continue the now one sided conversation. 

“Honey.  It was just a joke, I promise.”

Lori knew she shouldn’t tease Michelle, but for some reason she just couldn’t help herself at this moment.  Now she was just curious what else Michelle could say.

“Sweetie, you know I love cats, and so do you. Don’t be upset.”

Lori still remained looking out the window.

“Please honey.  I’ll try to make you purr later?”

Lori had to literally bite her tongue to keep from making a comment to that!

Michelle presumed Lori was quite upset with her since she wasn’t talking and Michelle opted to be quiet.

Good thing it is a short drive home. Michelle silently pondered.

*****************Chapter 20**********************

 

Michelle pulled into the garage and both women unloaded their groceries into the house.

Lori set her bag on the counter as Michelle went over and turned on some music. Michelle heard Lori rustle inside one of the bags and then Lori asked “Can I do some of my laundry here?”

“Yes! Absolutely. In the bathroom there is a small pantry area.”

Lori nodded and made her way out of the kitchen.

“I guess I’ll unpack these.” Michelle stated to the now empty kitchen.

“Michelle?  Did you start cooking yet?”  Lori asked from the bathroom.

“No. Why?”

“Could you come here a minute?”

“Sure.”

Michelle made her way out of the kitchen and rounded into the bathroom.  What she was expecting was for Lori to ask where the soap and dryer sheets were, but that wasn’t at all what she got! 

“NNOOO!!!!! Stop!!!”  Michelle was screaming and was holding her hands and her leg up in the air out if front of herself.

“Stop!!”  Michelle exclaimed again.

Lori was now laughing so hard, she literally fell onto the floor flat on her butt.

Michelle stood there.  She was in shock.  She looked down at her body.  At the floor.  At Lori.

“I can  NOT believe you just did that!!”  Michelle exclaimed.  She wasn’t angry.

Lori still grasping for breaths couldn’t even mock an innocent face this time. She outright laughed at what she had just done. 

“Wait!” Lori sprang up “Don’t move!!”

Michelle didn’t. oh my god. Was all she could think. She stood there silently shaking her head to herself.

Michelle heard the ‘click’ sound of a camera phone just as she looked up again.

Lori set the phone down on the counter and walked over to Michelle.

“We should get these clothes off of you before this stuff stains.”

“We should, should we?”

“Oh yes. By all means.”

Michelle couldn’t help but smile. “Lori?”

“Yeah?”

“You know what they say about paybacks right?”

Lori stood up straight and said “Nope. Can’t say I do.” As she peeled the last of Michelle’s clothes off and started up the shower.

Michelle stepped into the shower and stood quietly under the running water.  She heard the shower curtain open and then close.  She felt Lori’s hands upon her. Lori grabbed the liquid soap and washed Michelle gently. Michelle stood with her back to Lori for a bit, and then was guided to face Lori so Lori could wash her front.

Michelle watched Lori for a while and finally said “Where the HELL did you find Silly String in a grocery store?!?!” 

Both women smiled.

“Well I didn’t really know my way around the store, so I went up and down the aisles, and it happened to be in the candy section.”

Michelle shook her head.  She was in shock that Lori did something like that, but also quite pleased in a weird way.

“That will make an adorable picture you know, we should have it framed.”  Lori said as she bent down to wash Michelle’s leg.

Michelle didn’t answer.  Not because she had to think it over, but because she was stuck by the word “we” in Lori’s statement.

Since Lori didn’t hear a response she asked, “What? You don’t think we should?” 
“Um. No. I guess its fine.”

Lori smiled quite pleased with herself.

“There.  You are all clean.  Let’s go eat. I’m starving!” Lori hopped out of the shower to dry herself off.  Michelle did the same.

 

Lori fixed dinner as Michelle cleaned a section off of the kitchen table.  Having been alone for while the kitchen table didn’t get used quite often as it should have.  Michelle pulled out some place mats, glasses, and laid out some silverware.  She even decided to   lite a small candle.  It wasn’t a large meal, but sufficient enough.   After the meal both women decided to retreat to the small love seat in the living room.  They both agreed to leave the music quietly playing as they simply enjoyed being with each other.

 

Michelle took a few sips of her soda and then asked “What will you do tonight?”

“What do you mean?”

“Will you leave to go back home and about your job?”

“oh.”  Lori took a few sips of her water.

Lori wasn’t quite ready to go into detail just yet so she sat quiet for a few moments. She put her feet up on the edge of the coffee table and crossed her legs at the ankle. She let her head fall to the back of the loveseat and fall to her right shoulder. She gazed out the window.

Michelle had taken the non verbal cue and decided to get up to take care of all the dishes and ran the dishwasher. She then joined Lori on the loveseat again and tucked her legs underneath her as she sat down and let her free hand fall and play with Lori’s hair that was peeking over her left shoulder.

"What do you do?" Lori asked with out moving.
"I go quietly crazy, haven’t you noticed?" Michelle responded with a cocky smile.
Lori turned her head and smiled, and put a hand upon Michelle’s thigh. "No, I meant for a job?"
"I knew what you meant." Michelle said. "I am an Administrative Assistant."
Lori’s eye brows raised.
"What is that look for?" Michelle laughed and slapped Lori’s arm playfully.
"I guess I didn’t think you could be organized and focused."
Now it was Michelle’s turn to raise her eye brows.
"No no no." Lori leaned into Michelle and half laid on her lap. "I don’t mean that in a bad way, I was just surprised. In a good way."
"Oh." Michelle stroked Lori’s head and grazed her cheek and neck a few times with her fingers. "Were you asking to be curious, or was there something more."
"Curious."
Michelle heard and saw Lori’s yawn simultaneously. "Someone needs to go to bed."
"Yeah. It’s been an emotional day."
"So, what are you going to do about work? Will you leave tonight or in the morning?"
Lori slowly got up and grabbed Michelle’s hand and led her to the bedroom.
I guess tomorrow. Michelle thought as she smiled.

Both women got undressed and crawled into bed. The lights were all off and the shades drawn so there wasn’t much light in the bedroom at all.  They cuddled up to one another.

"Michelle?"
"Yeah."
"Do you like your job?"
"It’s pretty good. I shouldn’t complain, but I do sometimes"
"Hm."

Michelle assumed Lori started to drift off to sleep because she didn’t hear much else. Michelle relaxed her mind and her breathing started to even out and become steady just then Lori asked "Do you like your house?"

Michelle shook her head a bit, trying to gain some clear thoughts. "Yes."
"Ok."
"Michelle, do you..."

Michelle sat up and turned on the small bed side lamp. "Lori, this is very unlike you, what is with all the questions, not that I mind. I just don’t understand."

Lori sat up too and took a deep breath. "Michelle, I called my boss while I was in the store today."
"And?"
Lori sighed as she fell back upon the bed with her head in the pillow.
"She fired you?!" Michelle stammered.
"No. Not exactly."
Michelle waited. She knew whatever this was was hard for Lori to discuss.

Michelle shifted her position and rubbed Lori’s belly to help relax her. Lori’s eyes closed for a bit while she mulled through some things in her mind.
"My boss told me to take tomorrow off and if I wasn’t in by Wednesday don’t bother coming back." Lori said in one full fast breath.
Michelle’s eyes grew quite wide. "Why didn’t you want to talk about this earlier?"
"I just didn’t."
"Alright. So, do you know what you want to do then?"
"Yeah."
"What?"
"Be with you."
"Honey, I appreciate that, but I meant as a job."
"So did I."
Michelle wasn’t making the connection.

Lori sat up and held Michelle’s face in her hands. Lori looked her deep in the eyes and quietly said "I want to move here and make a life with you."
"What?"
Lori smiled. She knew Michelle was probably in shock. She was herself when she was in the grocery store. She got her mind off of it by eyeing the silly string. What a great idea that was!

"I don’t mean to imply move in here in your house and invade your space, but there has to be places for sale, or rent even, right?"
"Well, yeah. But? Just like that. Go and pack all your stuff, say good bye to all your friends and just leave?"
"Honey, that’s the idea."

Michelle moved her head slightly away so that Lori wasn’t holding her face anymore. How can someone just pick up like that and move. Why does she seem ok with it and not even bothered by it? If she can move herself that easily from her home town, what would keep her here? With me? What if she moved and decided it was all mistake, I’ll be the one to blame!

Lori could tell Michelle was thinking by the look on her face. Lori grabbed onto Michelle’s hand. God, she feels so good when I touch her.

Lori took a deep breath and said "Honey, I know it is sudden. I know. But my boss didn’t give me much choice in the matter. I wouldn’t be rushing you like this otherwise..." Lori clamped her mouth shut. Wouldn’t I be? We live in two different states! Would I be ok with a long distance romance? Would she be ok with one?

"I can’t believe she gave you one day to think about this. To take care of everything! That’s really shitty Lori." Michelle said with a slight pout. As if it would help the situation.  Oddly enough, it did.

Lori saw the protruding lip and arched an eyebrow and she slowly leaned up and sucked on it.  "Mmmm" was all Lori mumbled.

Michelle being unprepared for the sudden change of thought only responded by grabbing Lori by her arms and pulling her down with her onto the bed. Their penetrating kisses moved onto fondling, but before things got carried away Michelle suddenly said "stop."

"Why? Did I hurt you? What’s wrong?" Lori said very concerned.
"No. Hang on." As Michelle pushed Lori away and shuffled out of the bed and into the living room.

Lori lay there half listening, half occupying her thoughts. I can not follow her thought process half the time. But I am crazy to admit, I love that about her.

Michelle stopped in the bedroom door way wearing probably the biggest grin Lori had ever seen on someone’s face. Michelle eyes squinted as she looked at Lori.  Lori squinted hers right back at Michelle.

"What do you have behind your back?" Lori asked sarcastically.
"Me?" Michelle pointed to her chest with her free hand.
"Yeah. You. Little miss not so innocent. You."
"Close your eyes." Michelle instructed to Lori as she walked towards the bed.
Lori didn’t obey. She looked at Michelle.
Michelle looked back and just stood by the side of the bed. "C’mon. Close your eyes."

Lori reluctantly gave in and she felt Michelle’s weight on the bed. She heard a noise, but couldn’t quite decipher it. She felt the sheet being removed from her body. She heard that noise again.

Michelle suddenly kissed her on the lips and then whispered softly in her ear “paybacks, my love." Michelle then covered Lori with whip cream from a can from breasts to shins, giggling the entire time.

 ************Chapter 21*************************************** 

Lori went home the next morning to talk to her boss, rather to tell her boss she quit.  She used the rest of the week to pack up her personal belongings, say good bye to her friends and to locate a realtor to put her house on the market. Both women were so busy making the sudden adjustments that the week flew by for the both of them.

As the week progressed and Lori was packing up her house the two women had come to the agreement that aside from working, both women assumed they would spend most of their time together anyway so it just made sense that Lori move right into Michelle’s house.  Michelle had her fears obviously, but Lori reassured her many times that this is what she wanted, and that it would all work out just fine. 

Two months had passed since Lori moved into Michelle’s house.  Surprisingly things were going quite well. They knew they would need to adjust to each other and each other’s habits and in some cases nuances. But two months into things didn’t prove to be a problem at all. 

Lori’s house sold rather quickly and for a price better than she had hoped for.  She felt that she had a nice cushion of financial support that she was able to take her time and find a job she really cared about.  It took about two weeks of searching, but Lori had lucked out, there was a new warehouse supply division that was hiring just outside of town.  With her experience from her previous job, she knew it would be a perfect match.  The only thing she was worried about was how she had left.  To her pleasant surprise, these new employers took one look at her length of time at her previous employment and only asked as to why she left.  Lori told them it was due to relocating. “Lucky for us then!” was the employers reply and told Lori she was to start work the following Monday. 

Work was going well for both women and they finally settled into a daily routine with one another.  After work, Michelle would take Lori out and show her the town and the area around.  After Lori got acquainted with her surroundings, she decided one night that she didn’t want things to settle down between them too quickly.  The two women were lying in bed, Lori had been reading a book, and Michelle was just quietly winding down from her day.

“Michelle?”
”Hm?”
”What would you say if I asked you on a date?” Lori set her book down and half turned to look down at Michelle.
”I think I would say that I like that idea a whole lot!”  Michelle said smiling.
”Good!  Let’s plan one for Thursday of next week.” Lori picked up her book to read again.
”Ok.” Michelle said and then added. “Are we pretending not to know one another?”
Lori looked down at Michelle and into her wonderful blue mischievous eyes.  Lori paused to give it some consideration and then smiled brightly “Not this time.  But I promise to take you up on that date soon!” 

Thursday had finally rolled around and Michelle was in the shower getting ready for the date night they had planned. Lori having had the day off was all ready prepared to go out. While waiting for Michelle, Lori decided to go into the office and check her email.  Michelle had been in the office previous to her shower and had left her email open. Lori didn’t think much of it until she saw a name she didn’t recognize. It isn’t spam, she replied to this woman already. Lori told herself.

The woman’s name was Emma. This particular email had a picture of the woman embedded in it. Blonde curly hair, bright emerald eyes. Soft full pouty lips. A bright white smile. Tan skin. Lori wasn’t a nosey person by nature, nor a jealous one. But she felt both things as this very moment.

She read the email while feeling a tightening in her stomach:

I’m so happy to have finally gotten back in touch with you. It’s been entirely too long since we last talked. I miss you so much. You know me, busy busy all the time. We need to catch up. It’s always so wonderful to hear from you. Please write soon!

(L) Emma

Lori knew Michelle replied to this by the arrow icon in the email, but she had no way of knowing what Michelle said. Lori fell into the back of the chair and searched her mind for this woman, or even her name being mentioned in previous conversations. They had the infamous "ex" talk and since Michelle was a bit high strung, she only had 3 ex’s to speak of, none of them were named Emma. She couldn’t have intentionally left her name out. Why would she not mention this woman? Lori found herself looking at the picture of this woman again. She is very beautiful. Lori felt uneasy. Was this an ex girlfriend wanting to come back? Two months of living together, and she just doesn’t mention someone? Her mind halted to stop as she heard the shower being shut off. Lori left things were they were on the email and went back out into the living room. She fussed with the tv remote, anything to get her mind off of what she had just seen. It wasn’t the even the email that bothered Lori so much, it was the picture of this stunning woman who seemed all too friendly.  What is with me?  Why am I acting this way?  Michelle hasn’t given me a reason to distrust her. Why do I feel threatened by this woman?

Michelle emerged from the bathroom all dressed and ready to go. She went into the living room to put on her sandals. Michelle was humming some tune Lori couldn’t quite identify. She felt her stomach knot up again.

"You look nice." Lori stated.
"Thanks. I’m excited about tonight. I was thinking about it and looking forward to it all day while at work."

Lori nodded. She got up and turned the tv off and headed for the front door. Lori opened the door for Michelle. Michelle took one step out of the door and turned around to ask Lori "You alright, you seemed bothered?" Lori had gotten used to Michelle picking up on her non verbal cues, and sometimes, even at the most inconvenient times, like right then for instance.

"I just got a little too comfortable watching tv." Lori said.
"We don’t have to go out."
"No. It’s fine. Let’s go."

Lori decided she would drive. She told Michelle it was to be nice, but she knew it was to help keep her mind off that email, rather off of that woman’s picture.  She is stunning. Lori turned on the CD player to help drown out her thoughts. 

Michelle liked the CD that was playing, but knew there was something bothering Lori.  But now that they were living together, Michelle also knew how Lori processed things, how she functioned, how she needed time for her own thoughts.  Michelle dismissed the issue and just enjoyed the scenery.

Lori chose an upscale Italian Restaurant for their date night.  She pulled into a parking stall, hopped out and went over to open the door for Michelle. 

“Thank you. Honey, this is beautiful. You are so thoughtful!”  Michelle gushed.
Lori didn’t know what to say and just smiled.  She was still trying to shake her thoughts about this woman in the email. 

They walked in and were seated quite quickly.  They had a few odd stares there way, but for the most part everyone seemed friendly.  They were seated in a quiet booth and had a small candle on the table.  Michelle reached across the table and took Lori’s hand in her own.  “I just want to tell you I love you so much. Not simply for doing this, but for everything you do and the way you can handle me so well.  You never mock me, you never judge me, and you never jump to conclusions the way I do.  I can’t tell you how much that means to me.  Besides, we’d never make it as a couple if both us acted like that!”  Michelle had finished what she was saying with a laugh.

Lori held Michelle’s hand the whole time she was speaking, and looked into her eyes.  She knew Michelle wasn’t lying and kicked her self mentally for ever thinking such a ridiculous thing as Michelle cheating on her. 

They had enjoyed their dinner, and too much wine because neither of them could stop yawning.  They helped one another get undressed and collapsed on the bed into each other’s arms.  Michelle stifled a yawn and lazily said “Thank you. It was beautiful. And you are beautiful and I love you.”  

Lori smiled sweetly and said “You are welcome and you are beautiful too.  Good night my love.” 

The clock read 3:11am.  Lori sat upright.  Her heart was racing. Her forehead was sweaty. She felt disillusioned. She looked over to Michelle who was sound asleep.  Must have been the wine, she doesn’t usually sleep so sound. Lori thought to herself.  Lori took a couple of deep breaths to slow down her heart beat and she wiped her forehead with her hand.  She could now only recall the last few seconds of the dream, nightmare rather that she just awoken from.  Those bright green eyes.

*******************Chapter 22*************************************

After a few weeks of debating with herself, Lori had finally decided nothing was going on with Michelle, that she was just being crazy. It still bothered her to a certain degree that Michelle had never even mentioned Emma’s name to her, but she believed in Michelle and figured Michelle would tell her when she was ready. Or that maybe, there just wasn’t any information to tell.  Lori opted for the latter thought and started to feel better considerably.

Halfway through the day at Lori’s work, the lights went out.  Everyone was told they could leave early due to a failure in electrical lines that wouldn’t be back online until tomorrow.  Lori was quite excited by the news, not only could she go home early, but because she knew Michelle had the day off already.

On the drive home Lori’s mind was racing.  I should stop and get her some flowers.  Maybe I can talk her into a nice lazy afternoon.  Me. Her. The bed. Oh yeah! Sounds good!!  MMMM some strawberries would be good! Maybe some chocolate too!  Lori picked up her cell and called Michelle’s cell. Odd. It went to voicemail.  Lori knew she had a 40 minute drive so she waited another 10 minutes and called again.  Same.  Since Michelle did not pick up her cell, Lori decided to go right home and see what was going on. 

As she came driving up the road she saw Michelle outside the house hugging someone. At first Lori didn’t think much of it. Michelle was often affectionate with a lot of her close friends. But as she got closer to the house, and to this woman that was hugging her lover, she saw the blonde curly hair. She saw the tan skin. She saw the embrace last a little long for her liking. Lori slowed down, but didn’t quite stop. The woman was apparently leaving as they waved their good byes. Lori saw this woman’s smile. She knew it was Emma. Lori’s eyes darted over to Michelle and she felt like she had been punched in the stomach.

Michelle was so preoccupied with waving good bye to Emma that she hadn’t even noticed Lori coming up the road. She turned and walked into the house. She went into the living room and put the glasses she and Emma had been drinking out of in the dishwasher. She closed the dishwasher and set it to run. Michelle went into the pantry to put the wet clothes that had been washing into the dryer.

She hadn’t heard Lori come in the front door. She came walking out and almost screamed as she saw Lori standing there.  "You just scared the crap out of me!"
Lori didn’t say anything.
"Why are you home?"

Lori’s mind responded with so many things at once like what? Not expecting me to come HOME! Did I interrupt your little make out session?! Look at you standing there, not even looking guilty or sorry!! Instead of responding Lori just threw her keys on the table and got a bottle of water from the fridge.

Michelle watched Lori for a minute or two and then turned around and went into the bedroom to fold some clothes. Lori saw Michelle retreat into the bedroom as she fell onto the couch. See, she won’t even come kiss me or hug me. How’s that for guilt?! Lori picked up the remote with a self induced grunt and flipped through the channels.

Michelle was quietly folding clothes in the bedroom. Dang, she must have had quite the day at work she doesn’t normally come home so moody. She apparently doesn’t want to talk about it, and I want to give her the space she needs. As Michelle was hanging up some shirts she noticed Lori was now standing in the bedroom doorway.

"Hey honey, got anything in mind for dinner?" Michelle asked.
"No."
"Um, ok. Do you want to go out?"
"No."
"Alright. So you aren’t hungry right now?"
"No."

Michelle stood at the side of the bed and crossed her arms while looking at Lori. "What’s going on? You never answered why you were home from work early?"

"Lights went out."
"Oh? Someone hit something or..."
"No. Just a bad wiring situation. They’ll be fine by tomorrow."
"Oh. Well that is good." Michelle said as she went back to hanging up some clothes.
Lori moved some of the clothes aside and sat on the bed.
"Michelle, we need to talk."

Michelle spun around on her heel, looked Lori dead in the eyes and that was the last thing she remembered.

****Chapter 23*****************************************

Lori was back at the house now and her cell rang.

"Hi Clare."
"Hey, what’s going on?"
"Can I crash at your house for a while?"
"What?  Are you and Michelle coming for a visit?
”No.”
“Lori what are you talking about?"
"I think Michelle cheated on me."
"Don’t be crazy!"
"Clare, I saw them."
"You mean..."
"No. I saw the women leaving our...the house." Lori said disgustedly.
"So what Lori! That doesn’t mean anything."
"You didn’t see the looks on their faces."

"Fine. I wasn’t there. Did you at least talk to Michelle about it? Did she admit it by denying it?"
"I tried."
"And?"
Lori sniffed.
"Lori? What is it?"
"I tried Clare. I did. I got mad, and then I was just going to talk to her..."
"Going to? She kick you out or something?"
Lori began sobbing. She choked out "She’s in the hospital."
"Oh my god!" Clare gasped.
"Yeah." Lori gulped a breath. "They said she had a nervous break down."
"I’m not allowed in to see her, so I came back here.  I don’t know if I should pack up my things or what."
"Why don’t you stay there until tomorrow and then see what is going on then?"
"Yeah. I suppose I shouldn’t be on the road anyway."
"Right. You call me anytime if you need me, ok?"
"Yeah. Thank you."
"Anytime. Bye"
"Bye"

Lori crawled up into a ball and mixed her entire body in with the clothes that Michelle had been folding. She curled herself up and cried and cried until she fell asleep from exhaustion.

A knock at the door woke Lori up. She didn’t know the time, only went bolting towards the door. She yanked the door opened and saw that woman standing there.

"Oh. Hi. I’m Emma." Emma introduced herself and extended her hand out.
Lori didn’t move.
"I’m looking for Michelle, is she here?" Emma asked, lowering her arm back down.
"No. Can I give her a message for you?" Behind the door, Lori was squeezing her cell phone so hard that she almost busted it in two.
"I’d rather tell her myself. Do you know when she will be back?"
"No."  Lori wasn’t in any mood to be polite. "Who are you?"
"I’m Emma..."
"No. What I mean is why the hell are you here and asking for my partner?" Lori said so sternly she thought she almost growled it.
"Oh! You must be Lori!!" Emma said quite excitedly.
"Wha....how do you know about me?" Lori was beyond confused at this point.
"Michelle told me of course." Emma was talking as if this was all old news.
"Ok. Fine. Whatever. But you still didn’t tell me who you are." Lori was still not feeling overly polite and did not want to entertain the women. Damn, those are amazing eyes though! Lori brushed that thought away by biting her tongue. Literally.

Emma was not sure if she wanted to say anymore and took a step away from the front door. "I don’t know exactly what is going on, but just tell Michelle that I was looking for her, ok?"
Lori stepped out towards Emma and grabbed her by the arm and stated "You aren’t going anywhere until I know what is going on with the two of you."

Emma wasn’t scared as much as she was concerned. Michelle had already told me in an email about Lori. I know that Lori means everything to Michelle, something isn’t right. Emma said quite calmly "Lori, where is Michelle?"
Lori didn’t answer the question she only repeated hers, "Tell me what is going on with you two."
"Remove your hand from my arm and I will." Emma eyes were suddenly very dark.

Lori let go of Emma’s arm and only took a half step away from her.
Emma took a deep breath and said "I don’t owe you any explanation at all, but I am a friend of Michelle’s from almost a year ago."
This didn’t tell Lori anything! She only nodded in response.
"Michelle and I lost contact due to my touring."
"What? You are flight attendant or something?" Lori said dryly.
Emma not being amused by the joke simply ignored her comment and kept talking
"I’m an author and Michelle runs one of my fan clubs..."

Before Emma could even utter another word she saw Lori’s face turn completely white. "Fuck!" Lori yelled as she bolted inside.

As Lori came back out she grabbed Emma by the arm again and said "Don’t argue, just please come with me."

Emma didn’t have the time to be chasing around, but knew there was no way she was going to over power this woman at this point. Emma climbed into the passenger seat and said "Where are we going?"
"To the hospital. That is where Michelle is at." Lori said.
"Hospital? Why?" Emma was very concerned.
"Look. I was an idiot ok. I admit that. Now I have to fix it." Lori yelled something out the window at a driver that was going the speed limit, but clearly too slow for her.
"Lori, that doesn’t explain why Michelle is in the hospital, or you dragging me with you to see her?"

Lori let out a frustrated sigh. "Ok. Listen. About 4 or 5 weeks ago I saw an email from you to Michelle. I’m not normally a jealous person, but I had basically just moved in, things were going great, I guess I was just waiting for the something bad to happen."
Emma listened quietly as she silently prayed for them not to get into an accident by the way Lori was driving.
"I tried to let it go. But then about a week ago, I saw you leaving the house..."

"Oh my! You saw us hugging and thought that....she and I....that we....." Emma wasn’t horrified by the idea she had known Michelle’s sexual preference from the beginning of their friendship.

"I know it sounds horrible, I don’t even know anything about you. I don’t mean to insinuate, but you didn’t see the look she was giving you, or the smile on her face. And my god, look at you, who wouldn’t be jealous?" Lori stammered as she swerved to avoid hitting a car.

Emma just sat there too shocked at what to say. She wasn’t shocked by the fact someone might think she was gay, but more shocked by the fact that someone, anyone, that this stranger would accuse her of cheating! Emma didn’t want to add to anymore of the stress and didn’t acknowledge what Lori just said. Instead she simply asked "So Michelle is in the hospital because you two got into a fight?"
"What?! No!!!!"
Lori was at the hospital now and pulled into a stall. She turned off the ignition and looked at Emma "She had a nervous break down."
"Because..." Emma let her statement trail off.
"Because I was the fucking idiot who accused her of cheating." Lori slammed the door as she got out of the SUV.
"Wow." Emma stated to the empty vehicle. She got out herself and went into a slow jog to catch up to Lori.

*************************Chapter 24***********************

Emma made her way to the admissions desk that Lori was already at.  She heard Lori say “Please. I’ll be super quick!”  To which the lady behind the desk told her a very stern no. Indicating with out question their discussion was now over.

 

“Dammit!” Lori said with a frustrated breath.  She looked at Emma, “I’m not allowed to go in and see her.”

Emma could see the frustration and guided Lori to sit down in one of the chairs in the waiting area.  Emma said “I’ll be right back.”

“Wait! What are you going to do?” Lori went to stand up.

“Just sit here and wait! And be quiet!” Emma told Lori as she walked up to the admissions desk.

 

Lori couldn’t hear what they were saying, but saw the admissions lady look at her crossly a few times.  She saw Emma smile.  Emma waved to the lady and turned around to walk back towards Lori.

Lori jumped out of her seat “I can go in?!”

“No. You can not.”  Emma said.

Lori sat back down slowly wondering what to do. Just then she heard Emma say “But I can.”

Lori grabbed Emma’s hand before she got too far and said “Please tell her how incredibly sorry I am.”

Emma didn’t confirm or deny the statement.  She just simply walked to Michelle’s room.

 

Michelle heard the door open and already made her mind up to glare at who ever it was coming in.

“That isn’t the little ray of sunshine I am used to seeing.”  Emma joked.

“What are YOU doing here?”  Michelle couldn’t believe her eyes.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”

Both women smiled at one another.

“Since I was in the area, I had actually dropped by to personally hand deliver you my 3rd book, signed of course.” Emma smiled and pulled the book from her leather backpack.

“Wow!! That is so wonderful!  I’m so excited for you!”  Michelle reached up a bit and gave Emma a big hug.

“Yeah, thanks.  Your support is always appreciated, you know that right?” 

“Yeah. but I still think you say it just to be nice.” Michelle retorted.

“What’s wrong with nice?” Emma asked sarcastically.   “Hey, are you sure you are ok?  You want me to play body guard or something?” 

Michelle smiled and said “No. No.  I wouldn’t dare take you away from your adoring fans. I know how some of them are!”

Both women laughed.

“Thanks for coming to see me, your friendship means so much to me.”  Michelle quietly said.

Michelle was looking at the book and missed the spark that flashed in Emma’s eyes.

Emma cleared her throat “You mean a lot to me too.”

Michelle looked up and questioned Emma “Was there something more to that statement?”

Emma heard the door behind her open and leaned in quickly towards Michelle’s ear, before she lost her nerve she said “If only our timing had been different.”  With that, she squeezed Michelle’s hand tightly, straitened back up and said “I’ve got to get going you know how my busy schedule is.” She winked at Michelle and turned around to leave.

 

Lori stood at the door not knowing if it was ok to come in or not.  She looked at Emma with a bit of embarrassment to her cheeks and politely said “I’m sorry for my behavior.”  Emma took Lori’s hand, shook it and simply said “I’d be protective of her too.” With that, she shut the door and left the two of them alone in the room.

 

Michelle was still preoccupied with what Emma said to her that she momentarily forgot she was upset with Lori. 

“Hey.” Lori said as she approached the bed.  She was honestly at a loss for words.

“Hey.” Michelle replied, her mind still on Emma.

Lori went to hold Michelle’s hand. 

Michelle moved it away and didn’t let her. “How could you?” she asked Lori with sharp eyes.

Lori saw the pain in those blue eyes and fell to her knees.  “Baby, I’m an idiot I know.  I am more than an idiot. I don’t know what got into me!  I saw you two hugging the day I came home early…”

“You what?!” Michelle stammered.

Lori felt defensive and she stood up.  “Yeah. The day I came home early, I saw you two hugging.”

“You thought I was cheating on you because you saw me hug someone?”  Michelle couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“No. It wasn’t that.  Well, not just that.”

 

A nurse came walking in and gave both of them a stern look.  “You need to finish up whatever conversation you two are having, because her blood pressure is starting to spike.”

Both women nodded in understanding and the nurse stepped back out.

 

Lori didn’t want this hanging over them anymore so she told Michelle everything as quickly as she could.  “I saw an email you left open from her, with her picture, and you can’t deny she isn’t beautiful, and then I came home and saw you two hugging…”

Michelle was starting to process things little by little.  “Lori, why didn’t you just ask me about that email?”

“I honestly don’t know.  I felt this surge of jealousy from looking at her picture. I didn’t know how to discuss it with you then.  And then like I said, later I saw you two hugging outside the house.”

Michelle just tried to let everything sink in.  She tried to process all the information she heard. First from Emma and now from Lori.

Michelle motioned for Lori to sit on the bed next to her.  She took her hand and said “Lori, you know I love you.  And I am not even going to be upset about you being jealous, because it really is kind of flattering, but I promise you this, if you EVER put me in the hospital again”  Michelle pulled Lori in towards her so she could whisper in her ear “I’ll kill you.”

Lori sat back and was about to smile when she knew by the look on Michelle’s face that she was very serious.

Lori wiped away a tear from her cheek and only quietly said “I am so very sorry.”

 

Michelle took a deep breath and convinced Lori that she better get going.  Lori finally agreed, she kissed Michelle’s hand, and when Michelle didn’t pull her hand away, Lori leaned in to kiss her lips.  Michelle accepted the kiss with a sincere one of her own.

 

Lori was making her way to the door when Michelle said “hey?”

“hm?”

“That picture of Emma in the email?”

“Yeah?”

Michelle chuckled “It was for a photo shoot she did. She thinks it was ridiculous and wanted my opinion on it.”  Michelle yawned and turned on her side to lie down.

Lori’s heart sank.

 

Emma had spoken with the woman at the Admission desk to get a taxi for her.  As Emma waited outside she felt a flush of embarrassment come to her cheeks.  I can’t believe I told Michelle that.  She shook her head to herself and laughed.  Not that it wasn’t true, but I just never thought I would tell her.  The taxi arrived and she opened the door to get in, she stopped and glanced up to the window of the room Michelle was in and said out loud “Take care. We’ll talk soon.”  She got into the taxi and was off to entertain the millions of fans that were waiting for her at a book convention.   

YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYChapter 25YYYY

 

Lori heard the thunder crash and winced as the lightening bolt flashed.  This storm would have normally put her in a bad mood, but this time it worked in her favor.  All the laundry was clean and put away. All the dishes were clean and put away too.  She had finished cleaning the house.  She glanced around the house one more time to make sure things were in place. She lit some candles and had the music softly playing. 

 

Lori was anxious for Michelle to come back home.  Since she hadn’t been able to talk to Michelle much while she was in the hospital, she felt as if they were in that stage of dating again.  She was also unsure where this left them as a couple.  Michelle had told Lori that a friend of hers would pick her up at the hospital and bring her home.  Lori didn’t understand why she couldn’t do it, but she wasn’t about to press the issue.

 

Lori peeked out the window and tried to see if a car was coming down the road. She didn’t see anything.  She sat down on the love seat and pulled the picture of Michelle and the Silly String close to look at it.  She smiled and placed the picture over her heart. “I love you so much baby.” She said out loud.  “Please let us get through this, and past it.”  As she was finishing her statement she heard a car door shut. 

 

Michelle assured her friend Staci that everything was going to be fine, and that she didn’t need to put surveillance on Lori.

“Really, I can.  My husband knows some people who know some people.”  Staci said with a smile.

“The offer is noted, and put away for later.”  Michelle laughed.  “No really. It was a big misunderstanding that I just couldn’t handle at the time.”

Staci offered a sympathetic smile.  “It’s raining pretty bad, are you sure you don’t want any help to the door?”

“No. I’m fine. You’ve known me for 30 years, and I haven’t melted yet, I’m not about to start now.”

“Ok.  You call if you need me.”

“I will. Thank you.”

“Oh, and tell Lori I said hi by the way.”

Michelle smiled and said “I will.”

“Bye.”

“Bye.”

 

Michelle stood in the rain and watched her friend pull away.  She stood there silently and closed her eyes and lifted her head up towards the sky and just let the rain fall down upon her.

Lori had been standing on the porch not wanting to interrupt anything and was just watching the entire time.  She saw Michelle look up to the sky and said out loud “My god, you are so beautiful. I love you so completely.”  Lori stepped off the porch and slowly made her way to Michelle, never looking away from her.

Michelle completely drenched sensed Lori approaching and opened her eyes, but didn’t move.

“Your flowers are getting all wet.” Michelle said as she indicated the flowers Lori was holding in her hand.

“They aren’t mine, they are yours.” Lori said not really thinking.

“Oh. So that makes it ok they are all wet then, cuz they are mine?”

Lori didn’t answer.  She was stunned at how beautiful Michelle was looking, even drenched in rain water.

Michelle tilted her head to one side and looked at Lori questioningly.

 

Lori dropped the flowers, and then dropped to one knee.  She took Michelle’s hand and asked “Will you never leave me?”

Michelle laughed out loud “That wasn’t the question I thought you were going to ask!”

Lori stood back up and shrugged her shoulders “I know.”

Lori cupped Michelle’s face with her hand and pulled her tightly into her and kissed her.

When they parted from their kiss Michelle smiled and fell into Lori’s arms. 

Lori was glad for the rain, that way Michelle couldn’t see her crying.

No. Michelle couldn’t see her crying, but she felt it.  The staggered breathing and the quick heartbeat beneath her ears.  She smiled to herself.  

They made their way into the house finally and Lori got a towel to dry both of them off.  She got Michelle some dry clothes and helped her onto the love seat. She went to change her own clothes.

 

“Lori?” Michelle called out.

“Yes, sweetie? You ok?”

“Yeah. I just have a question for you.”

“Sure. What is it?”  Lori made her way back to Michelle and kneeled down beside the love seat. “You need something?”

“Yes, actually I do.”

“What? A drink? Some food?  Anything! Name it.” Lori smiled.

Michelle pulled out a small promise ring and said “I need you to say you’ll wear this.”

Lori froze. 

Michelle laughed and said “Is that what I looked like the first few times we met?”

“Wh..”  Lori couldn’t speak.

“Well. That certainly is a first. Ms. Calm-cool-collected-I-always-know-what-to-say…” Michelle’s statement was cut off by a kiss. 

A kiss that was so pure, honest and unwavering Michelle knew she had her answer.