Part 2

The following two months were wonderful as the two women discovered each other. Kate had shyly asked Lena to move in with her only to have Lena decline.

“Kate, I want to woo you and court you the old fashioned way. If I move in with you we would miss out on that experience.” Lena then administered her own brand of persuasion making Kate readily agree to courtship.

Everyday was a new experience for Kate, besieged with flowers, love notes, whispered words of love and best of all Lena’s love. It was very clear that Lena Corkill was making sure that the woman she loved knew exactly what it was to be romanced and become the center of attention. Not that Kate had any problem with being at the center of attention, she was, after all, her parent's only child and had her fair share of being spoiled rotten.

Kate enjoyed Lena's romantic overtones and loved the attention, although she gave back her fair share. After they parted each evening, Lena was greeted with love poems or letters left on her pillow. At times Lena would become so engrossed in the paperwork of the farm that Kate would entice her out of the house to watch a sunset or just relax as fireflies lit up the evening.

Their morning workouts and breakfast routine settled down into a natural flow that both women appreciated. During the day, they would talk at frequent intervals about the plans for Merridoc Farms or just to say I love you. It became a ritual for Kate to come across Lena, at the training track, and together they watched the young horses at play. Kate always held securely in a tight, but comfortable and loving hold by Lena.

One of the biggest surprises for Kate, had been Lena's voice, she had the most beautiful voice that Kate was sure she'd ever heard. She was constantly amazed when Lena would sing her favorite pieces as she played the piano.

On one such evening, Lena had discreetly watched the smaller woman from the corner of her eye as she stared hypnotized by Lena's voice. At the end of the piece, Lena put her arms around Kate and hugged her closer then placed her hands in front of them with Kate's back resting on her chest. Lena began to gently tease the ivory keys of the baby grand piano into a famous love song by Cole Porter, 'Night and Day'. Kate had to catch her breath, at not only the tune, which she particularly enjoyed, but that Lena was actually singing it to her as if it had been written with her in mind. When Lena completed the song and the musical notes died away, Kate shifted on the bench and somehow  managed to face Lena. Her green eyes were glowing with love and appreciation at the thoughtfulness of the gesture.

"Have I told you recently that I love you?" Kate whispered close to Lena's lips and stole a chaste kiss as she directed her green eyes to the cobalt blue ones that shimmered with warm affection and intense love.

"If you call recently over an hour ago, the answers no!" Lena chuckled and rested her forehead on Kate's as they both smiled into each other's eyes.

"Then I guess I'm going to have to tell you every minute of every day. Would that be more to your liking?" Kate spoke suggestively.

Lena gave her a grin and teetered on the brink of kissing the most inviting lips she had ever seen. "I guess that means you want me to be your personal trainer." Lena then gave into her temptation and kissed Kate's lips in a slow, deliberately teasing manner, which made both gasp for air when they eventually released each other.

"I thought you were already my personal trainer, or have I forgotten a clause that you can slip away from me again?" This time the words were playful and in jest, no malice or anger attached at all.

"No you haven't forgotten a clause, but maybe I have with you." Lena replied obscurely.

Kate was intrigued and touched the back of her hand caressingly down the side of Lena's face, making the taller woman shiver in anticipation of what could possibly come next. "Are you going to enlighten me?"

Lena put her own hands out to capture the errant one of Kate's and kissed the palm tenderly. "My clause would be that you can never have another personal trainer unless I agree and my word is final, what do you say."

It was a comment that Kate realized had a double meaning if she accepted. Even in this light-hearted way, she was giving over her life to another and that she no longer had total control. Yet, it was a declaration from Lena that she wanted to be in Kate's life totally and not on a part-time basis, but as a committed partner. There really was no other answer. "I'll agree to the clause if you agree to the same clause with me as your personal trainer?" Kate smiled at the grin that presented itself on her friend's face.

"Kate you have never had any competition with me and you never will, but I will agree to the clause. How would you like to seal this deal, my love?" Lena's eyes turning a shade deeper as her passion flared.

"Oh I thought maybe you might want to try out a different exercise routine and afterwards have breakfast in bed?" Kate saw the latent passion flare to unexpected proportions. Sweeping her up into her strong arms, Lena answered her by way of actions rather than words.

* * * * *

Oh No You Don’t

Excitement crept over Merridoc as preparations for the Kentucky Derby began. It was going to be a great occasion as both Lena's and Kate's families were going to join them for the day Brownsley was running. Both women and the staff worked hard to make Brownsley reach the level that would give the mare a chance at the top race.

Kate watched Lena go into the barn where the farrier had set up her equipment to shoe Brownsley. Turning to watch a couple of the jockeys canter by in the training field she was horrified to hear shouting and a stream of abuse flow from the direction of the barn. She wasn't the only one as a couple of the stable hands wandered over to the barn's entrance to listen to the altercation. Shortly after the initial shouting, a furious Lena was walking out, dragging a much larger framed woman behind her. The onlookers watching the events unfold, especially Kate, found it hard to believe their own eyes.

"If you think for one minute I'm going to put up with smart comments about Ms Lawrence on her property, you're much mistaken." Came the low growl of Lena's angry voice. The only time Kate heard that voice was when Lena was really pissed off and wanted to hit something, badly.

Kate noticed the blood that was on the other woman's clothes. She then sent a startled glance towards her lover, who, she now noticed, had blood, not only on her clothes, but also on running down her left arm. That was enough for Kate. She ran as fast as the wind would take her to Lena's side grasping the injured arm to inspect it. "Lena, what's going on?" Kate asked her voice full of concern.

"Nothing for you to worry about, Kate, but we are going to have to find another farrier, any objections." Lena was looking daggers at the retreating figure of the farrier. “I would have personally kicked her butt into the truck if you hadn’t stopped me!” Lena was still fuming.

Kate looked at the wound with tender concern. After a careful examination, she realized that the injury was superficial and she hadn't come to any great harm. Kate rolled her eyes. "You know something, Lena. If you continue running off the help, we’re going to have to permanently employ a farrier and vet that you’ve hand picked! We’re running out of options here." Kate's eyes twinkled as she dragged Lena along to get attention to her wound.

As they moved away from the people gathered at the barn entrance, one stable lad shouted. "Way to go Lena! Thought she'd nailed you with that hay hook, but you sure are fast out of the gate," the others chuckled as she was hauled away without further comment.

"Now what exactly happened in there?" Kate asked politely, but desperate to know what had transpired.

"It's nothing, Kate, let's forget it, shall we." Lena glanced sheepishly at the smaller woman who had now stopped them in their tracks and looked earnestly into her eyes.

"Tell me, remember we have no secrets?" Kate said quietly and watched Lena blush as she cleared her throat.

"The stupid bitch was going to make a play for you, so I told her that you were taken and that you wouldn't be interested. She obviously didn't like what I said and I told her to leave. She didn't like that either and was going to come over and see you personally. I kinda took offence to that and told her she would have to go through me to get to you. I guess she thought she had a chance, because she came at me with a hook and I dodged out of the way, but a little too late, obviously. I decided that we could do without that type on the property so I escorted her to her vehicle, that's the end of the story." Lena said in a quiet bashful tone.

Kate looked at her lover and saw all the love and deep need for her to understand in those amazing eyes and simply pulled Lena's head down to her level and kissed her passionately. "You really don't have to get yourself into trouble trying to stop every advance that comes my way, I can deal with it in my own way, Lena." Kate replied softly after she ended the kiss reluctantly.

Lena shrugged and hung her head a little embarrassed at her jealousy and the way she had reacted. "Lena, next time can you make sure that it isn't someone we need professional services from and that have tools of the trade that can hurt you. Okay?" Kate smiled up into Lena's face and noticed the swift change in demeanor; her tall friend somehow seemed to gain a few more inches as Kate accepted the defense for what it was; a token of her love.

"Come on let's get you patched up and find another farrier for Brownsley."  Kate said as they continued to walk over to the main house.

Lena laughed and replied. "No need. You didn't think I'd start trouble before she did what she came here to do, did you Kate. Shame on you!"

Kate turned back and burst out laughing, that was so like Lena, let the people do the work and then fight it out with them later. What have I let myself in for with this woman? Whatever it is, I don't care.I’m enjoying every damn minute!

A few minutes later, Lena watched in fascination as Kate ministered her superficially wounded left forearm. Lena wasn't too happy that the damn woman had managed to cut her in the first place. Still, there were benefits in every bad situation, and hers were the gentle touches of her lover treating the injury.

Green eyes startled Lena as they rested on her capturing her in a silent question. "What?" Being caught daydreaming, Lena coughed self-consciously; what a daydream this woman inspired in her.

Kate smiled slightly as her eyes sparkled with warmth as passion flared too. "Are you doing anything exciting this afternoon other than your normal run of the mill fighting with the professional help and tossing them off the property?" Kate seized the opportunity to tease her friend.

Lena heard the banter in the tone of Kate's voice and gave her a grin that shook Kate to the core with its intensity. "Ah yes, that run of the mill situation. If you want, I can arrange for more of the same anytime. You have to realize that you are one very beautiful woman and somewhere in my contract, it says I get to protect you personally. I kind of like that clause, in fact, I love that clause and everything that goes with it!"

Kate laughed at the comment and having bandaged the injury to Lena's forearm, she placed her arms around the taller woman's neck and leaned into her, their lips a fraction away. "Can I change that contract just a little?" Kate's voice breathless as she placed her lips on the ones within reach and lost all sense of reality as the sensations began building with the intensity of the emotion she felt whenever they kissed.

Lena eventually surfaced from the onslaught of lips that she would never tire of feeling on her body. "Whatever you change on mine, becomes a change on yours, agreed?"

"Agreed! Lena you can protect me for the rest of my life and I hope you do, but please no more injuries. Find a peaceful way to make your point, please." Kate looked into the blue eyes and saw the indecision and she smiled as she saw the features cloud over for a second with indecision.

"You know there's no fun in that for me. Look at the result if anything happens, I get a personal nurse and private medical care. Sweet Kate, believe me, this is a whole new concept in recuperation that I could get use to without any serious thinking." Lena captured the lips that hovered near her own in a passion so primitive it was hard to comprehend. Simply, she was unable to control the surge of emotions this small woman brought out in her.

Kate couldn't move, or say anything. Perhaps there was merit in the occasional skirmish, but only if it was superficial and Lena was right, oh what a way to recuperate. "I think...no, I know, I can handle that if you promise that I'm the only personal nurse that gets to lavish this attention on you?"

Lena gave out a laugh that had it been anywhere else, but the main house, might have shaken it with its powerful rumble. Resting her forehead on her lover’s she smiled, her eyes boring deep into the green gaze held close to her. "Kate, if I ask anyone else, I'm sure a certain party that I love, would use that as a good excuse to attack that person…I'd rather you picked up the pieces than I pick up yours."

"That's almost a sexist comment,  Lena! I can look after you and myself too if required, but I have to admit, I'd much prefer all pleasure to any pain. So, Ms Heroine, by all means carry on if that's what turns you on." Kate chuckled at the look on Lena's face, and placed a gentle hand across her forehead to wipe away the frown placed there.

"Kate, the only thing that turns me on is standing right next to me. And, if she stays this close much longer, we won't see the rest of the afternoon or the evening either.” Lena drowned Kate in a sensuous gaze that had Kate holding her breath in anticipation. “But, I unfortunately have to go into town and it can't wait, but hold that thought my darling." Lena placed a finger on the tip of Kate's adorable nose and watched as Kate shook off the finger and stared at her in disgust.

"Selena Corkill, you can be way too cruel sometimes; building a girl up and then setting her down in the horse manure!" Kate blew out the breath she held and rested her head on Lena's chest trying to bring her scattered emotions under control. Although, that wasn't easy, as she felt Lena's lips caress her hair and rest there as they both relished the comfort and love of the embrace.

"Sorry, Kate, we can take this up when I get back?" Lena said hopefully and waited for Kate to move so she could search her expressive eyes for the answer.

"How about I drive you into town? I have to meet the attorneys, they have a package of documents ready for me." Kate moved herself slightly out of the embrace and gave Lena a warm smile.

Lena caught between saying yes to this woman, who literally could ask her to walk on water and she'd try, but this was something she didn't want Kate to see, or rather where she was going. "Kate, thanks for the offer, but I need to change, how about I pick you up in say thirty minutes and I drop you off at the attorneys?"

Kate knew that Lena always liked to drive and her injury really didn't preclude that situation. So, who was she to refuse to be a passenger and watch Lena's profile for the ride into town; no sir, she was definitely going to accept that option. "Sure, don't go tangling yourself up in any other problems today, okay?" Kate smiled at the affronted look that briefly crossed Lena's face, but replaced immediately by an infectious grin that told its own story. "Get out of here and clean up, Lena, before I do something that won't allow it."

Lena chuckled and commented as she went towards the door. "Promises, promises." Fortunately, she had managed to be on the other side of the door when a towel flew in its direction.

Kate could hear her laughter, which was good to hear, as she walked away from the house. Watching Lena move further away, Kate felt snared in the sheer sexual electricity that the woman created, even as she moved. Shaking her head she went towards her own bathroom for a cold compress to the head; she wasn't too sure if that was going to work, but it was a start.

“It’s me, I tried but the Corkill woman kicked me off the property.” The farrier said nervously.

“Shit! Can’t you do anything right?” The voice growled out.

“Hey, I’m sorry, but there’s no way that woman will let anyone near Kate.”

“Damn, how did the horse look?”

“No problem at all, she’s ready to race.”

“Get over here now!” Cornelia commanded. The farrier was not much to look at, but she had a talented tongue and that’s what the vet needed. I’ll take care of the bitch myself…the Derby will be the perfect place.

* * * * *

Business, Partnership Or More

Lena watched as Kate turned, gave her a winning smile and entered the attorney's office agreeing to meet a little later. Lena put the truck in gear and set off for her destination, the local jewelers. Ernie Miller’s work was exquisite and she needed the custom piece to be perfect. She was sure it was going to be a token that would bring what her heart desired and more.

"Hi Ernie, how are things?" Lena said, her bright manner bringing a smile to the grizzled features of the old man. The jeweler sat with an eyeglass in his right eye pouring over some gems on the polished surface of his worktable.

"Hi Lena, glad you got my message," the old man liked this straightforward woman. She always knew exactly what she wanted and this time, she had surpassed herself.

"I'm looking forward to this, believe me." The smile on Lena’s face was akin to a child on Christmas about to open presents.

"Got to tell you, Lena, this sure has taken longer than the watch casing you had me do for your dad, but it's a beautiful piece that's for sure." The old man held out a green felt box and watched as the young woman opened it.

Lena’s eyes looked at the uniquely beautiful item; it was even more striking than she imagined when designing the piece.

"Guess I don't have to ask if it meets your approval." The old man chuckled as he saw the smile remain on her face.

Lena put the piece back into the green felt box, paid Ernie, then shook his hand in happy thanks. In her mind, the man was a superb craftsman. Carefully storing away her possession, she left with another round of thanks.

Arriving in front of the lawyers and not seeing Kate, Lena opened the green case and gazed in fascination. Lena hoped that Kate would see the true meaning behind the gift when she presented it to her before they left for the Derby. Closing the box, she placed it in her jacket pocket not wanting Kate to find it before they were up close and personal. A smile crossed her face knowing that was a sure thing before their journey home was completed.

Pulling up her legs to rest on the seat, Lena reached down for a small, well-worn book in the door pocket. Opening the book, she looked at the preliminary design of the precious piece now safely concealed in her care. All she hoped for with that first tentative drawing, now realized in an exquisite piece.

A gentle tap on the window brought her face-to-face with the object of her thoughts. She never looked more alluring to Lena as she did standing there. She felt her heart soaring with love and desire for the beautiful woman.

"Going to let me in?" Kate asked pointing to the legs draped over the passenger seat in a relaxed stance. Lena smiled apologetically and removed her legs so Kate could get inside. Kate held a large, fat manila envelope, which she tossed behind the seat. Then, Kate placed her hands around Lena’s face and gave her a slow welcome kiss. This had Lena growling with frustration that they were in the middle of downtown with a half-hour drive back to the farm.

Lena smiled affectionately at the smaller woman, "You love to turn me on and leave me out to dry, don't you, Kate?"

"No, never that, Lena. I might love to turn you on, but leave you out to dry, dearest, that would be the furthest thing from my mind. Now, if you said turn you into a puddle, then oh yes, every time my darling, every time; I adore seeing you wet and by my hand too!" Kate giggled at the shocked expression that passed over Lena's face before her lover pulled her close and bit down gently on a tempting ear.

"Wet, hmmm, now that's a thought I would really like to get my teeth into, Kate. I have hands and teeth and anything else that comes to mind or can move on my body to help you join me."

Kate this time groaned at the sexual intonations they traded,  God give me strength,  she thought as she pulled out of Lena's warm embrace.

"How does dinner at my house tonight sound?" Kate asked, her heart dancing to a tune that Lena created.

Lena smiled seductively and put the truck into gear, leaving before making a spectacle in the middle of town. "You and dinner sound perfect to me, do you want me to bring the wine?"

Kate turned her gaze out of the window to steady her rapid pulse. At times being this close to Lena was a distraction she could well do without, but she never wanted to be without it! "Excellent, anytime after seven will be just fine."

Lena quickly glanced her way and a slow sexy smile crossed her lips as she saw the shallow breathing of the smaller woman. Looking down the road she was glad to have something else to concentrate on other than the heat she felt rising inside her body. No one had ever turned her on like Kate, and no one ever would.

* * * * *

Kate had surpassed herself with the dinner she prepared. Actually, Carmen made most of the dishes with Kate assisting, applying her own special touch to everything.

Now, both content after the meal, quietly engaged in friendly chatter as good friends often do. It was something they had cultivated, a deep friendship that bound them together and added immense strength to their growing love for each other.

Walking into the room, Lena reclined her tall frame into the plump love seat and sighed in satisfaction. The meal had been marvelous and the company was nothing short of bewitching. Love was a truly remarkable thing causing a smile on her face for the entire evening. If their previous interactions of the day were anything to go by, it would be a wide, satisfied grin by the end of the evening.

Kate approached her and placed a tray with coffee and what looked like a large envelope that Kate had from the lawyers.

Lena smiled at the exuberant woman who retrieved the envelope and unceremoniously jumped onto Lena's lap. Smiling happily, Lena looked into the green eyes, "Not enough room on the sofa or have I taken your favorite spot?"

Kate smiled and gave her a kiss that started the heat flowing through her body, "You are my favorite spot. Wherever you are I want to be, makes sense to me." Kate captured the full lips surrendering to the frustrations of the day by indulging in a very thorough inspection of Lena's mouth with her active tongue.

Lena groaned as they came up for air and touched the side of Kate's cheek. She was in awe at how much the woman, on her lap, excited her to the point of being totally out of control at her touch. "Makes sense to me also, Kate, perfect sense!"

Kate moved away slightly from the total body contact, picked up the large envelope, and placed it on top of Lena's hand. The dark haired woman looked at her in puzzlement as she took the packet. Lena opened the envelope with easy fluid movements, but her eyes never left Kate's, who looked at her with a happy, satisfied, look. Reluctantly releasing her blue gaze from the green one, she began to scan the contents. Quickly glancing down at the documents spilling out of the envelope, she saw the deeds to Merridoc Farms and ownership of the thoroughbreds with both their names on the documents, indicating joint ownership. Lena glanced up into the sparkling green eyes. There was no doubt in them that this was what Kate wanted. "I can't accept this Kate." Lena was shocked at the contents and her eyes mirrored the tone of her voice.

Kate continued to look into the anguished blue eyes she loved, never more so than now. "Why not? We have worked together here as partners, it is the perfect solution," her comment logical in her eyes.

Lena placed her hands around Kate’s face and tenderly caressed the cheekbones under her fingertips. "The perfect solution to you maybe, but not to me Kate. You own all of this; it belonged to your grandparents and it's yours, I only work here!"

Kate's eyes changed from a position of no doubts in her decision to slightly apprehensive about her approach. "You don't just work here, Lena. Without you Merridoc wouldn't be in the prestigious position it is today, and you know that! Please, it's important to me that you share the property with me and everything that entails."

"I can't, Kate. It wouldn't be right for you to just give me a half share. I thought you were an astute business woman, my Love!" Lena smiled gently at Kate, not wanting her to feel that the gesture wasn’t welcome, but to her, it was impractical.

Kate smiled wryly at the comment. "Oh, I am. I got you to come here, didn't I?"

"That you did, my love, that you did. And, I thought you'd given up those type of negotiation practices?" Lena teased her to ease the tension that was building.

"Oh I have, except on one particular employee…who can be so, so stubborn, but who has the most remarkable blue eyes, that I literally will try any ploy to get her to my...table for talks." Kate smiled suggestively at her and saw the flare of passion ignite in Lena's eyes.

Lena considered her options. She didn't want to argue about the partnership with Kate, although, her principles refused to allow her to accept such a generous gift when she had nothing to give in return, or had she? Smiling at the sudden idea that came to her, Louis was good to me in the last six years, I’ve spent very little and Granny left me a tidy sum, yes, exactly what I need!

"Will you come to my table, Lena?" Kate suspected that Lena had made a decision for she could see the gleam in her eyes as they smiled at her.

"Yes, but I have a proposition for you, Kate. What if I buy my share of the partnership?" Lena watched in fascination as Kate frowned slightly at the idea as her green expressive eyes became guarded, and for a split second, Kate's spirit left the room. That was how Lena perceived the expressions crossing the beautiful face close to hers.

Kate gave Lena a serious look. "No! I want to give you this partnership as a gift for everything you've done for Merridoc and for what you have given...me!"

Lena saw the traces of disappointment in Kate's face. She wanted to close the gap between them and forget they ever mentioned the subject, but it was too late for that! "Kate, it's a fantastic opportunity you are offering me, but darling, I would always feel that I hadn't earned the magnificent gift. At some stage it would come back to haunt us and I don't ever want anything we have together to be tinged with a possibility that something might return and hurt our relationship. Can you understand my position, Kate? Please?"

Kate heard the impassioned plea and her heart surged at the words. No, she didn't want anything to come between them. This was so trivial a point, it was time to compromise and she was good at that. "I understand your position, Lena, not entirely sure I agree with you, but...I can see your point of view. So, I will take a thousand dollars!"

Lena gave a belly laugh at the absurd amount Kate indicated, it was very amusing and so like her lover. Wonder which school of business practice she went too? Whichever it was, they needed to brush up on the negotiation technique in the real world.  However, Kate's use of seduction in negotiation needed no improvement whatsoever. Lena gave her a look that spoke volumes to her friend and she placed her forehead to the smaller woman's; several seconds later she lifted her head and responded. Placing her arms around Kate, she gently lifted her and deposited her softly on the other side of the sofa. Leaning over, she placed a tender kiss on her lips and whispered into her ear, "I'll be back in a minute, don't go anywhere."

Kate looked at her in surprise, even more so as she left the room swiftly, leaving her with a bemused expression on her face. “What on earth is she up to?”

A couple minutes later, Lena waltzed back into the room and gave Kate a slow, smoldering look that astounded Kate. Advancing closer to Kate, she dropped down on her knees, and then with an exaggerated flourish, presented Kate with a check.

Giggling at the display from her friend, she took the check batting her eyelashes at Lena with great effect. Looking at the check, her hand froze in space as the amount registered. "I can't accept this, Lena it's way too much, and I only asked for a thousand dollars not a million dollars. Do you have cotton wool in your ears?"

Lena continued to smile and chuckle at the words. "No, my hearing is perfect, thank you, and I heard, but this is the only way I can accept the partnership, Kate, the only way! Of course, you will have to wait a few days to cash the check so I can get stocks and bonds sold to cover it.”

"You are so...so irritating, do you know that?" Kate wasn't immune to the infectious smile of her friend and once it made inroads into Kate's consciousness, it was difficult, if not impossible, for her to deny Lena anything.

Lena chose that moment to remove the check from Kate's grasp and place it next to the papers on the coffee table that still held their now cold coffee. Placing her arms around the smaller body that complimented her in every way, she pulled her lover into a tight embrace and trailed tender light kisses from her brow to her eyes, which she also reverently kissed gently. She then moved across her checks and kissed the tip of her nose, eventually ending up with a breathless and totally appealing set of lips ready for her to plunder of their nectar. She did that for several minutes, only allowing them to come up for air once or twice and that was under duress.

"I think I like to be irritating, Kate, especially if it causes this reaction in you." Lena stroked the rapidly beating pulse at her neck with a fingertip.

"Okay, I agree to take your check if this is how you complete a business deal. But, make sure you only ever negotiate this way with me, Lena!" Kate informed her, now completely dazed at Lena's onslaught, but oh, what a way to become dazed and confused.

"Only you will ever need this kind of negotiation technique, Kate. After all, the rest just get evicted from the property, right?" Lena laughed and rested her new partner's head on her chest in satisfaction that they had finally agreed on the terms of the deeds.

Kate smiled at the statement. "Yes and I hope that one day soon this partnership we have will become more than a business formality. So, how do you propose we seal the deal?"

Lena kissed the head comfortably positioned on her shoulder. She smiled into the blonde silky hair as she heard a sharp indrawn breath. "I think we had an earlier discussion about us both wanting to appreciate the other’s techniques at getting wet; I'm in favor of that particular pursuit right now. What about you?"

Kate without a further word moved from Lena's gentle embrace and standing next to her lover's outstretched legs, she held out her hand for Lena to take. A predatory smile came over Lena's face, her eyes carrying a sultry glaze that would melt a glacier, Kate was positive about that! Lena enclosed the hand and seemingly, within seconds, they were laughing breathlessly in the middle of Kate's bedroom.

Both women looked at each other as their desires ignited to such a pitch that only the release of passionate lovemaking was going to quench these needs this time, no going back! Kate kicked off her shoes and they whizzed around the room and came down heavily as they hit the wall. Kate never let the cobalt blue eyes leave her as she placed her arms around the still laughing Lena. Her partner gently kissed her neck and then began a tender exploration of the slender column, the base of her throat, Kate didn't let this distract her from her purpose, in fact, it brought her senses to a higher pitch that made her task that much more important.

Kate's hands began what she considered one of the best uses of her dexterity, the removal, as quickly as possible, of every piece of clothing that Lena was wearing. This was their special game and this time she was certainly winning. They hadn't even decided on an appropriate trophy for the winner, but the thoughts that crossed her mind put trophies well into the background. Oh yes, definitely into the background. Anyway, who wanted a trophy when she had a living and breathing body that moved seductively to her touch and had her own body answering with a similar beat?

Piece by piece the clothing dropped to the floor as Lena’s fingers teased Kate’s breasts. Finally Kate removed the last of the clothing and within record time Lena was naked in her arms. Lena gathered Kate closer, "You do that so well, my love." The sultry soft tone of her lover whispered in her ear.

"I know, but I have good reason. Who wouldn't want to see you as nature intended, darling?" Kate kissed the collarbone of her lover and saw the intense emotions that threatened to spill at any time from Lena.

"Nature be damned! All I want is to make you happy; that will do for me." Lena growled in a sexy timbre pulling Kate closer until her naked thighs were pushing against the thin fabric of Kate's dress. The friction causing her to breathe in deeply or she would overload with her own sexual fantasy the woman caused unconsciously in her. Soon Lena freed Kate’s body from the bound of clothes.

The bed was enticingly close and Lena, using her extra strength, propelled them towards the soft and entirely satisfactory position of lying in a close embrace on top of the bed.

"You're making me more than happy, Lena," was all Kate could say as she endured with complete agreement and abandonment the sensual attentions of her lover.

"Pleased to hear it, Kate. Now, no more talking, screaming I'll allow, but talking...." Lena captured Kate's lips in a kiss that sealed that part of the conversation with no doubts.

* * * * *

Promises For A Lifetime

Lena watched with pride as the horse trailer, emblazoned with the name Merridoc Farms, pulled out on its way to Kentucky. All the hopes and dreams of a successful race carried in the trailer. The dawn till dusk training over the last months making sure the horses were conditioned and ready for the big one was about to payoff.

The night before their scheduled departure for Churchill Downs, Lena had special plans and a particular question to ask Kate. A smile of satisfaction came to her face as she stirred her world famous chili. World famous because in reality, it was about the only thing she could successfully cook.

Kate put her arms around Lena's waist as the older woman stirred the large pot of chili. “That smells wonderful…do you have other specialties.”

Turning in Kate's arms Lena smiled wickedly. “Why yes I do…care to try them out?” In that moment, looking deeply into Kate’s eyes, Lena had a flash of insight telling her that Kate was her reason for living. It was a natural conclusion that they would spend the rest of their lives together. "I love you, thank you for being in my life." She said quietly, the tenor of her words changing from playful to serious.

Kate was astonished at the expression from Lena; something was different tonight, very different. Smiling she replied, not as she first thought to, but simply. “I love you too.”

Supper finished and now warm and resplendent in their favorite sofa, holding each other closely, Lena made a move that Kate wasn't happy about. "Where are you going?" Kate asked her restless partner.

"I'm not going anywhere, I promise, but I...well, Kate, I was thinking that maybe...." Her jumbled words stopped as lips captured hers as they fell into a sensual haze that only they produced together; it was amazing!

"Let's go to bed and you can show me all your other specialties.” Kate placed her lips on the side of Lena’s neck. She had no resolve left; it was just going to be!

"You and bed sound great to me, I can deal with that, especially if you take me. Lena smiled and her smile enraged the smoldering embers in Kate's body.

"You are the only person I want in my bed. I can't exist without you, Lena, don't you know that by now?" Kate said, her passion now fully engaged.

Without a word, Lena picked up her lover and quickly made her way to the bedroom where she deposited Kate on the bed. Looking down at the beautiful woman, Lena was in awe. Her heart, mind and body all overwhelmed by the nearness of the woman and the love she felt.

For Lena, the decisive moment was upon her. Now was the perfect time to ask the question that had kept her awake.

To Kate's surprise, instead of Lena joining her on the bed, she dropped to one knee at the side of the bed and locked a cobalt blue gaze with her emerald green eyes. Kate could see the fine lines that etched themselves at the sides of her eyes. It portrayed Lena's apparent nervousness and yet, it made her look so very attractive. Lena's hand went shakily to her pocket then held out a green felt box for Kate.

Kate was mesmerized by the action of Lena's shaking hands indicating the seriousness of the event about to take place. Kate gave Lena a puzzled look as she gently took the box from trembling hands. Opening the box, her breath caught at the sight of the ring. It was breathtaking.

Kate removed the ring that nestled within the confines of the box and with infinite care and concentrated appraisal. She exhaled the breath she held when she'd first glanced inside. Rotating the ring in as many directions as possible, the entwined heart shaped horseshoes enchanted her. Within the center of each, a large diamond with each horseshoe encrusted with smaller diamonds. The ring was stunning and so unique. For Kate, it was a moment she would cherish for the rest of her life.

"I love you, Kate, would you honor me by being my life partner?" Lena asked huskily as she watched with quiet joy the expressions chasing across her lover's face. It was a memory to capture and savor in her heart forever.

Kate, rising up from the bed, collapsed on top of Lena on the floor as she pulled the taller woman into her arms and began kissing her from her eyes to her nose, lips, and collarbone. Gradually coming up for air and then continued her onslaught across the fabric of Lena's shirt and nuzzled each breast until she could feel the nipples grow in excitement as they became noticeable through the fabric. As with the speed of her onslaught, she just as quickly jumped up from Lena and rushed over to the dresser drawer, which held her underwear, and proceeded, to rummage around until Lena could hear a soft exclamation. "Gotcha." as Kate removed a blue felt box and clutched is breathlessly to her chest.

Lena had been stunned and disappointed when Kate left her at such a tantalizing moment. Can't say I was expecting that reaction, jumping me yeah, jumping off nooo... her face had a bemused expression as she watched Kate. Watching from her prone position, Lena gave Kate a grin as she rushed back over and planted herself on her lover's shapely legs and held out the box.

"I love you, Selena Corkill, and yes, I will be your life partner if you will do me the honor of being mine?" Kate saw the smile that brought a glow to her lover as she opened the box and saw the look of wonderment on her face.

Lena pulled out the ring held in the box. It was an oblong sapphire the proportions of which she'd never seen outside the safe of a jeweler. Diamonds encrusted all around the huge sapphire…it was magnificent. "Kate, it's gorgeous. Where...when did you get this...?"

"Well, why not a gorgeous ring for a gorgeous woman. I saw it in New York months ago and knew I had to have it for you. It was made for you, Lena, and only you!" Kate, placing her arms around Lena's shoulders, hugged her close. Their bodies tingled at every angle they touched and a fierce yearning began in both of them that only the other could assuage.

"Yes, life partners, Kate. There will only ever be you in my life; everyone and everything pales into insignificance with you here in my heart." Holding the ring out to Kate, she whispered. “Will you do the honors?”

Taking the ring, Kate placed hers in Lena’s hand. “If you will do me the honors too.”

As they slipped the rings onto fingers, whispered words of love filled the air.

“I have been afraid all my life of giving my heart completely to any one person, Lena. You changed all that with one smile the first day I saw you. I love the way your eyes hold me with love and desires, leaving no doubt that you love me. Please know that I love you, now and for always.”

“Kate, you are all I ever want or need. I’ve always been so afraid of being hurt, but you make me feel safe and loved. I never want to spend a day without you in my life. I love only you for eternity.”

Lena placed light, tender kisses on Kate's bent head until her lover’s face turned upwards to receive a kiss. "Does this mean that you will finally move into the main house?" Kate asked her with a cheeky grin that Lena loved.

She laughed at the teasing tone of her lover. "Well, I guess with fringe benefits like having you in my arms every night and each morning I wake up for the rest of my life, sounds like a perfect arrangement to me.” Smiling seductively, she added, “Try and stop me." Lena pulled Kate down so that she was lying on top of her with every body part touching.

"Stop you. Like hell I will! You're mine and this is going to be the only place you lay your head at night. Mine are the only arms that will hold you when you sleep and my eyes will be the only ones that watch you as you wake up every morning. I adore you my love, and all I want is to have you beside me for the rest of my life." Kate spoke softly the tender endearments softly and Lena watched spellbound as twin tears tracked down Kate's cheeks. Lena reached up and gently erased the moisture then brought her lips up to kiss away the trail left behind.

Lena traced her tongue along Kate’s cheek, lapping up the salty taste of her lover, then moving with swift attention, to tantalizing lips. Kate, gasping at the intensity of Lena’s attention, reciprocated as their tongues vied for supremacy. Each mouth gladly allowed entrance to the exciting battle that ensued.

Kate lifted her head to look directly into the now fired cobalt blue of her lover's as she placed her hands on the first button that held Lena's shirt in place. Within seconds, all six buttons were undone then Kate, with a speed that amazed Lena, pulled the shirt around her back and effectively pinned Lena to the floor, her hands a prison in the shirt. "I can't move, Kate."

Kate looked at Lena, her eyes glazed with passion. "Now, why would you want to move? I'm sure you’ll enjoy what I have planned for you or I could release you." Kate's voice husky with pent up passion waiting for release.

Lena gave an amused look and smiled wolfishly, "Go ahead, but remember, Kate, were in partnership now, what you do I get to give back.”

Kate supplied a dazzling smile and nodded her head while she moved closer to the heaving breasts that were impatiently waiting for attention. Lena was sure she was going to die from the, oh so, very welcome assault. Lena pleaded with Kate to move south since her need was overcoming her patience. Kate glanced up momentarily and gave her a sexy smile. No words were necessary as Kate dexterously unbutton the jeans, and then slowly teased the shapely thighs as she gradually removed the offending garment. Within minutes, Lena was experiencing the infinite gentleness of the exquisite touch of hands and mouth as her partner brought her to a pinnacle of delight that had her screaming Kate's name at the top of her voice.

Kate rested her head on Lena's stomach while she waited for her partner to catch her breath and gain a little control. "I love you, Lena." Kate said her mouth muffled as she kissed the smooth skin close to her lips.

"You got that right, Kate." Lena finally responded her voice hoarse. Did I really scream that loud? With ease, Lena released herself from the shirt that she had allowed to hold her prisoner. Her arms quickly went around Kate's back. She gently stroked her lover's back in a swirling action that had the shorter woman leaning into every touch.

Kate’s body was at a pitch with the energy of passion that required Lena's particular brand of lovemaking for release. "I wouldn't mind your showing me your other specialties about now!" Her voice croaked out…hungry for Lena's touch.

Lena chuckled at the need she heard in Kate's voice, "Lover you can have whatever you need or want!" Lena picked the smaller woman up and gently laid her on the bed. This time, Lena descended on top of her and kissed her with such passion that Kate was unable to take a breath. Her hands were busy with the zipper of Kate’s dress and within seconds, thrown on the floor in a bundle. Lena’s eyes feasted her eyes on the half cup black bra that Kate wore and smiled as she placed small feather light kisses on the exposed part of each breast and hearing a low growl permeate from Kate. With her lips gently caressing Kate’s breasts, Lena reached for the front fastener, clever girl, and unclipped the bra to have two perfectly proportioned breasts spring out of their captivity with the nipples peaked. They did not have to wait long for a further display of attention, each responding with enthusiasm.

"I want more, Lena, so much more, please..." Kate rasped out while grasping the flowing dark hair that belonged to her partner and pushed her, with what little strength she had left, down towards her open thighs. Lena's hands made short work of the black lace panties that Kate wore. Lena made love to Kate, her screams filling the room! This was nothing short of wonderful!

Some time later, Lena held Kate in her arms and kissed the blonde hair as a grin of satisfaction crossed her face. "I was thinking, Kate, how would you like to take a shower?"

Kate looked up at her from her comfortable position in the crook of Lena's shoulder, "Why now?" she asked as she snuggled back into her favorite position.

"Well...I was kind of thinking water, you, me and test out a theory of mine about how wet one can get." Lena purred into her ear and Kate realized that the shower might not be the only thing turned on if Lena's rakish look was anything to go by.

"You are insatiable, Lena. Do you know that?" Kate chuckled pushing herself away from her lover allowing Lena to move sufficiently so she could pick the smaller woman up.

"Only for my life partner, only ever for you, darling. That I promise!" Lena laughed softly into Kate's slender neck and carried her with ease towards the bathroom.

"Oh yeah, I agree, life partner, definitely only for a life partner." Kate's lips captured Lena's in a kiss of possession that had them both short of air as Lena kicked the bathroom door behind them and all that could be heard were rather curious sounds that had no connection whatsoever to having a shower, none at all!

* * * * *

Kentucky Derby

Lena walked quickly across the paddock towards Brownsley’s stall and the jockey, Tim Stokey. “Have you weighed in, Tim?”

“All done. Me and Brownsley were having a serious talk about the race and her relaxing.” Tim replied with a grin. The rider had a very good rapport with all the horses he rode. His love for them and racing so apparent in his words and deeds. Lena was certain this philosophy contributed to his high winning average.

“Have you seen Danny around?” She asked as she scanned the crowd for the handler.

Tim cocked his head at the question…Lena had never asked that question before. “He left shortly after I got here, said he needed to check on something. Is there something I can do for you?”

“No.” Came the preoccupied answer as Lena continued to monitor the crowd. “There he is!” She exclaimed as the young man approached her. “Any news, Danny?”

“No, Ms. Lena, haven’t seen a hair of her head. Don’t worry, I will be right by Brownsley’s side.”

“Glad to hear it.” Lena smiled fondly at Danny. She had always liked him and knew he could always be trusted to take very good care of the horses. “I will leave you to get her ready. I’ll be back shortly.” Turning to go, she once again scanned the crowd.

Kate and Lena’s families had already arrived and were sitting in their private box with Kate when Lena returned. “Hello, everyone.” She said with a smile. If the truth be known her stomach was doing flip-flops, not because of the race, but because she was meeting Kate’s parents for the first time.

Belinda Lawrence was the first to stand and give Lena a hug. “Hello, Lena, it is so good to finally meet you. Our little girl always speaks so well of you.”

“Thank you.” Lena said as she returned the hug while giving Kate the help me smile.

Kate took no time to arrive at Lena’s side placing a scarf with the farm’s colors around her neck. “There you go, bet you though I forgot.”

Lena laughed. “How could I forget?” she said as she motioned at Kate’s outfit. Her sundress had the colors also, navy blue, emerald green and gray. The tasteful straw hat had a broad band that also incorporated the colors.

Kate moved closer and gave Lena a hug, then looked up into the blue eyes before speaking. “Lena Corkill, I would like you to meet my father, Carl Lawrence.”

Lena held out her hand and shook the taller man’s hand. “Pleased to meet you. Now, if you all will excuse me, I need to get back to the stables.” Turning she smiled at Kate. “Meet you later.”

The Lawrence and Corkill families gathered around the winner’s circle as the garland of roses was placed on Brownsley’s withers. It was an electrifying win for the horse and jockey winning by five lengths. What a wonderful way to end a perfect day. Kate and Lena smiled proudly as photos were shot of them and their jockey, Tim Stokey. The Lawrence/Corkill co-operative program had exceeded their wildest dreams.

* * * * *

Lena’s arm went around Kate’s waist as she escorted her to their parent’s table. After greeting everyone and taking their seats, the meal came to the table.

“Selena, your timing is impeccable as always.” Seymour said laughingly. He then launched into a story about Lena never missing a meal.

Everyone at the table chatted amicably about the race, horses and future races. The two families seemed to meld together just as the two women had.

Carl spoke to Lena quietly. “While we wait for dessert, do you think we could step outside for a moment?”

Lena, taken aback, disguised it by giving Carl a disarming smile. “Certainly, shall we go?”

Kate watched as her father and the woman she loved, excuse themselves to go outside. She could see them through the doors; her nerves wracked watching all the facial expressions on Lena's face. Kate was certain that she would know if something upset Lena, but at no time did the beautiful woman have anything other than a smug and indulgent smile on her face. When Lena entered the room suddenly, and caught Kate watching her, the smile changed to a sensual regard that had Kate lowering her eyes. The look had Kate squirming in her chair wanting to go over and take her lover to bed immediately, regardless of the company that they were entertaining.

When all the festivities grew low keyed, Lena threw her arm around Kate's shoulders and led her silently out onto the balcony that gave a picturesque view of the area. The moon was out and the stars above gave a glow to the night that poets would have gladly given a year’s rent to produce the same effects on paper as the reality did to the hearts of young lovers.

Settling into a familiar pose on the rail of the balcony, Lena gently placed a light kiss on Kate's head. "We did it, Kate, we've made a name for Merridoc Farms and all in the space of a year." Lena enthused as she soaked in the closeness of the woman in her arms.

"Yes, we did, but you know something, Lena." Kate looked up at the beautiful profile that she could not imagine living without.

"What's that, my love?" Lena asked her voice muffled in Kate's hair.

"If all we had was each other, Lena, that would be fine with me." Kate heard the catch in the breath taken above her.

Kate turned so that they were facing each other and could see each other's expression. "I cannot think of a more eloquent expression of what our love means to me, Kate, except that I know you're all I'll ever need in this life and beyond." Lena placed a delicate kiss on the tempting lips that smiled at the shared emotions.

As the wind gently swirled around them, it could, to a poet with imagination, sound like the a line in a poem; Love's quest riding away with the gentle beat of two hearts now entwined as one.

Lena gently removed her arms from around Kate’s shoulders and placed the warm palms around the small, beautiful features. Her cobalt blue eyes shone with undisguised passion and deep love of the woman she held close to her taller frame. “You know, Kate, I could hold you like this forever.” Lena exclaimed as she gently kissed the small ear then bit down tenderly on the tempting lobe.

Kate’s heart raced at both the sentiment and the accompanying action. With a trembling voice, filled with unleashed passion, she answered her partner. “I would like that darling, but I thought we might sit with our parents and talk about our future plans.” Kate rested her head on Lena’s shoulder as she let out a sigh of both satisfaction and frustration.

Lena raised her expressive eyebrows and arched them in question.

“Lena, we need to explain all our new plans and the changes we have negotiated.” Kate smiled playfully into her lover’s eyes and saw the enlightenment glimmer out of the cobalt blues.

“Kate, Negotiated? Are you calling our commitment to each other a negotiation?” Lena demanded back with a mock serious tone. Her voice dropping to the low octave her lover loved, she felt the slight tremor as the smaller body responded to the sound.

“Oh yes, and I remember very well that it made a wonderful partnership in all the most important ways…especially the last one we negotiated, do you remember?” Kate’s eyelashes were fluttering to exaggerate the comment and the meaning behind the words.

“Ah, that negotiation….” Lena chuckled quietly as her eyes, which had previously held unleashed passion, now sparkled with merriment.

“Are you ready to face them?” Kate said seriously as her eyes mirrored the amusement of her lover’s.

“With you, Kate, I will face the whole world if that’s what you want. All you need do is ask and you shall receive.” Lena drawled seductively.

“No, no I think our parents are the world enough for tonight. Let’s go make them very happy, shall we?” Kate tugged on the larger hand of her partner and together they left the beautiful scenery displayed from the balcony.

As they entered the room, they spied both sets of parents talking happily together. Seymour was no doubt regaling Kate’s father with some anecdote or other which had both men echoing belly laughs. The two women chatted quietly, both rolling their eyes at their respective spouses. Kate and Lena looked at each other, smiled and headed in their direction.

“Room for two more?” Kate asked sweetly placing a gentle kiss on her father’s cheek before settling into an empty chair on his left. Lena stood there, smiling sheepishly at her parents, who were looking at her with speculation. She then pulled a spare chair forward so that she was next to Kate, but close to her father’s wheelchair.

“For you, darling, I’ll always make room.” Her father’s deep voice said with affection. He grasped Kate’s hand and held it as he’d done when she was a child. To him, she would always be a child…his child!

“Well, I’m glad that you are all together, we have something to share with you.” Kate’s voice held all the excitement of a child at her first birthday party.

All eyes turned first to the excited blonde then to the rather serious countenance of Lena, who shrugged her shoulders at the words. To anyone who knew her well, it was easy to perceive the gleam of happiness in her eyes. Seymour was the first to ask the question.

“Well, I’m not getting any younger, little lady, so if you don’t mind sharing, I’d appreciate it.” His eyes twinkled as he turned his full attention to the animated blonde that had captured his daughter’s heart.

Lena looked at her father in mock outrage then placed a hand on his shoulder. Then, with a look of adoration, she nodded her head at Kate.

“Lena and I would like you to know about the partnership we’ve formed at Merridoc. We are, effective as of a week ago, equal partners in the farm and its interests.” Kate said quickly and held her breath as she waited for the reaction.

“Great news.” Both sets of parents readily agreed and looked at them expecting more and they weren’t disappointed.

Kate disengaged her hand from her father’s and turned to Lena. Taking both her hands in both of hers, then bringing them to her lips, she kissed the knuckles of her lover’s hands. “Lena and I have agreed to be life partners and we wanted you all to share our happiness.”

Lena looked around the table and saw the looks of pride and joyfulness emitting from them all. It was with quiet wonder that Lena rejoiced in the good vibes she was getting, not just form her partner, but from both sets of parents.

Kate’s mother was the first to speak after the congratulatory hugs and kisses were finished. “Kate, my dear, when will the happy day of the ceremony be?”

Kate smiled warmly at her mother, but didn’t answer immediately, her eyes tangled with her partner’s as they conveyed messages that only they understood. As their heads slowly moved towards each other, they suddenly, mutually recalled where they were and they exchanged a glance that conveyed both understanding and frustration.

“Come on, Lena, surely you and Kate have a date in mind?” Lena’s mother prodded.

“We need to plan.” Lena and Kate answered together, causing their parents to laugh at their obvious matched thoughts.

Lena blew out a breath. “Right now we are in the middle of the training and preparations for the next two races.” Smiling in the direction of Kate, she continued. “We think probably in a couple of months we will have the ceremony, isn’t that so my love?” Lena spoke decisively, but gently, and her cobalt blue eyes never left the green ones that had turned to watch her speak on their behalf.

“Exactly, and I might add, what a celebration that will be…kind of makes me wish this was the last race instead of the first,” Kate answered wistfully and giving Lena a smile that almost dazzled the other woman with its intensity.

* * * * *

Triumphs, Attempts and Failures

Before joining the others for the evening’s festivities, Lena and Kate decided to visit the Horsemen’s Club to get an idea of how their names would look there among all the other winners.

“Damn, I forgot to check on Danny!” Lena exclaimed as the entered the museum.

“Go ahead and see him, I will just look around until you get back.” Kate said with a smile and a kiss.

“Are you sure? I won’t be long.” Bending to steal another kiss before she left Lena shook her head. “We could forget all about this and just go back to our room.”

Laughing, Kate gently hit Lena’s arm. “Later, now go and hurry back.”

“I’m going.” She said as she started out the door.

Kate wondered about the museum taking in all the history of horse racing and the wonderful examples of what it meant to belong in the sport. So absorbed, she didn’t notice the person approaching.

“Well, well, Kate, congratulations seem to be in order.”

Kate’s skin crawled as she recognized the voice. “I didn’t think they let someone like you around horses anymore.” She hissed at Cornelia.

“Now Kate, you know that isn’t true, I am the vet to several of the horses here.” Cornelia said as she closed in on Kate.

Seeing the look in the vet’s eyes, Kate knew she was in trouble and wished Lena was there. “Go away.” She said as she looked around for an escape.

“You never said that before the bitch came on the scene. I know you wanted me, I could see it in your eyes, Kate.” Cornelia, now only inches away from Kate, grabbed her arm.

Managing to pull loose, Kate began to run towards the trophy room only to have Cornelia grab her again. “No use running, Kate, I am going to have you so don’t fight me.” Pulling Kate in close, she was about to have her revenge on Lena when she heard a familiar voice.

“Keep away from her you sorry bitch!”

* * * * *

Arriving back to join the others, Kate and Lena could feel their hearts pounding from the encounter with Cornelia.

“Did I lose you, love?” Lena whispered into the sexy delicate ear a fraction from her lips. If she moved any closer she would indulge in taking it between her teeth gently and tugging, knowing the effect that would have on her lover.

Kate turned tumultuous eyes in her direction, trapping hers in a wondrous place that only they shared. “Never, Lena, never will you lose me, I’m with you all the way whichever way we decide to travel.”

Bending, she kissed her love before they entered the main ballroom. Inside, many of their friends were celebrating not only the end of the year’s Triple Crown, but that they had competed so well and taken away two out of three races. “Glad to hear that because I think exactly the same way.”

“You know, it’s just as well you haven’t been banned from the club.” Kate sighed at the narrow escape they just had with ‘Cruella’ Cambridge. They could only hope that the woman was now out of their lives for good!

“Oh, really, no way would they have banned me because of her, everyone around here knows what she did to our horse. Anyway, even if they had, it would have been worth it to knock even more sense into her dense skull.” Kate saw the look of satisfaction on her partner’s face as she recalled the previous altercation with the vet.

Stopping near their table, where several people, with wicked smiles on their faces, waved at them. They obviously thought they’d gone out for air…well they had in a way. It had certainly cleared the air in lots of ways.

“Lena you’re forgetting something.”

Lena frowned wondering what she had forgotten. The smaller woman at her side never looked more beautiful in a gorgeous figure hugging creation that was simple yet elegant. Knowing Kate’s penchant for only the best in her wardrobe, it probably cost a fortune. “I am? What’s that, love?”

Giggling at the concentrated expression, yes that was her Selena. If it wasn’t about horses, her mind needed a nudge now and again. It was probably the most important event in their calendar this year…to her certainly.

“We’re having the ceremony here, remember, and somehow it doesn’t quite have the same ring to it when you shout your vows from over the fence.”

Lena shook her head and wondered how Kate put up with her…forgetting something she’d been longing for ever since they had vowed to be life partners months ago. “Oh God, sorry Kate, I didn’t forget, really.”

Kate smiled lovingly at her partner. Lena was one of a kind and she was going to ensure that this one of a kind was hers, and hers alone. “Tell you what, you dance with me and I’ll forgive you.”

Lena didn’t need to be asked twice to have the woman she loved in a close embrace dancing to a slow song, this was her ideal. Taking Kate’s hand, they entered the dance floor and slowly gyrated to the music, uncaring that the tempo and the other dancers were much more upbeat.

Lost in a world of their own, oblivious to the indulgent smirks from friends and acquaintances, they now had a new a quest of the heart, and together that would be a marvelous journey.

As they stood, swaying their hips slowly in time with their music instead of the melody filling the air, Danny came up to them. Clearing his throat, he waited for the two women to acknowledge him. Finally, Lena opened her eyes and saw him standing there.

“Danny, if you want the next dance you’re going to have to wait, her dance card is full.” She said in low sexy voice until she realized that he was out of place. “Danny, why are you here?”

“Sorry, Ms. Lena, its Brownsley…something ain’t right with her.”

Suddenly, both women surrounded the young boy. “What do you mean? Speak up, tell me now!” Lena spoke with urgency.

“Well, me and Joey were sleepin’ outside the stall and all of a sudden she started makin’ a racket. We got up real fast to see to her, but she is wild and won’t let us near her.” He said fearfully, knowing how fond Lena was of the horse.

“Let’s go.” Kate said as the three made their way to the barns.

“Danny, did you call Dr. Price?” Lena asked.

“Yes, Ms. Lena, Joey went to fetch him.”

Closing in on Brownsley’s stall, they could hear the house whinnying loudly as hooves crashed into the wooden side of the stall.

Kate and Lena pushed through the crowd of spectators, shocked by the sight of their genial horse, wild and out of control.

“What the hell is going on here, Doc?” Lena said loudly over the shrill voice of the horse.

“Not sure, Lena, but it doesn’t look good.” Thomas Price, their new vet said.

Lena walked closer to the stall and began talking in a low voice to the horse. “Hey, girl, it’s me.” Holding her hand out she hoped the horse might settle down. “There you go everything’s going to be okay.” Her soft voice continued as she edged nearer to the horse.

For the moment, the horse seemed to be placated although her eyes were wild and filled with fear. Lena gently placed her hand on the horse’s withers only to have her rear up again. Quickly moving out of the way of the hooves, Lena fell backwards onto the barn floor. “Shit!” She screamed before cocking her head and looking intently at something in the hay.

“Danny, will you get me a rake?” Lena said as she got on her knees.

“What is it? Did you find something?” Kate asked as she knelt down on the floor resting her hand on Lena’s shoulder.

For a moment, Lena was lost in a flood of emotions with Kate next to her. “You’ll get your dress all messed up down here.” Blue lost in green until Danny came back with the rake.

“Here you go, Ms. Lena.”

Lena sighed as the moment passed. “Thanks. Baby, do you see over there in the straw?” Lena asked as she pointed to a shiny object.

Kate searched the area until she too saw something in the straw. “Yes.”

“I’m going to see if I can calm her down again. When the time is right, take the rake and pull whatever it is out of the stall. Okay?”

Kate smiled assuredly. “Be careful, will you?”

Lena winked and smiled. “Of course, we have the night ahead of us.” She said so only Kate could hear. “You’ll have to be quick. I’m not sure how long she’ll stay still. Don’t take any chances, Kate, those hooves can be deadly.”

“No problem.” Kate said as she touched her lover’s hand.

Once again, Lena stood talking softly to Brownsley moving closer hoping for enough time for Kate to get the object.

“Got it!” Kate said as she moved the straw away to reveal the prize.

Lena, Kate and Dr. Price were all on their knees looking at the vial.

“Acepromazine! No wonder she is wild and belligerent.” The doctor said. “Someone must have given her enough to give her hallucinations.” He said shaking his head.

Lena shot up and scanned the crowd, her eyes searching for one person. “Danny, Joey did either of you see Dr. Cambridge around here tonight?”

“We were sleeping, Ms. Lena.” Joey said cautiously. “She wasn’t around here before that.”

Lena continued to survey the area as she put an arm around Kate. “Let’s get out of here, Tom can take of her now. Not much to do until the drug wears off.”

Kate couldn’t help but notice the worried look on her partner’s face. “Are you sure you don’t want to stay?”

“Yes, let’s go.” Lena said as she once more looked around the barn.

As they left, cold eyes, filled with hate, watched their departure. This is only the start, bitch.

Always And Forever

The mood of Merridoc Farms was high after winning two of the three most prestigious races. For Lena, there was no time for rest as conditioning and development had to continue. Kate, wanting one very special piece of property, was in the midst of negotiations. Each evening was spent in each other’s arms as they discussed the day’s events and what the future would hold for them.

They had been home for a week when Kate brought up the subject of their joining ceremony.

“Lena, we really need to get started on the plans for our ceremony.” She said as she kissed the belly her head rested on.

Pulling her love up into her arms, Lena smiled then sighed. “Would you hate me if I said I don’t want to have it at the Horseman’s Club?”

A sad, worried look crossed Kate’s face. “You don’t want to have a ceremony? Have you changed your mind about me?” An errant tear trickled down her cheek.

“No, Kate, you misunderstood! I want nothing more than to pledge my love to you forever…all I meant is I wanted the ceremony here and not at the Horseman’s Club.”

“Really?” Kate said as she flung her arms around Lena’s neck. “You’ve been reading my mind. I know it will be inconvenient for some to come here, but this is where it all happened.”

“Great minds, my love. Where do we start?”

“A date, we need a date.”

That was the start of the two longest months of Lena’s life. She had no idea the amount of preparation required to give her heart and soul to Kate officially. Invitations, flowers, dresses, caterers, tents, chairs, hotels for guests and more were required for one afternoon. The logistics of it all were staggering for her, but she fearlessly joined in, allowing Kate to have her way with the plans.

Kate closed the deal on the property near the river and the old oak tree where they first voiced their love. She surprised Lena with the deed to the land and proposed they have the ceremony and reception there. Carmen and her close friend Vi would do all the cooking for the buffet dinner. Belinda and Anna were permanent fixtures as they oversaw all the preparations making certain everything was to Kate’s liking.

Finally the day arrived, with activity in full gear in every part of Merridoc. The site by the oak trees and river was set up with a white runner leading to an archway where they would walk through before the ceremony began. Chairs lined both sides of the aisle as white and red rose sprays filled the area. A large white tent was set up for the reception along with a smaller one for Carmen and company to use for the food.

* * * * *

Lena’s father watched the tense body language of his daughter and smiled. Yep, she was fraught, as anyone would be with upcoming nuptials…that would be the final bond to make everything worthwhile in both their business and private lives. Wheeling his chair over to the French windows where his child stood pensively looking at a yearling that was happily trotting around the paddock.

“No use worrying about it, Baby, you’ll see her in good time.” Spinning around Lena gazed at her father with a bemused expression on her face.

“I don’t know what you mean, Dad.”

“Really, and I always thought your mother and I had brought up a smart kid. She’s not going to come over the hill, you have to go to her, remember?” Smiling, as he saw a dawning behind those dramatic blue eyes of hers.

“I wasn’t thinking that at all, Dad, but this tradition of being separated before the wedding sucks!”

A chuckle rumbled from the depths of the wheelchair as the older man thought, yeah right! “Tradition has its good points too, Lena. Later, won’t you have a marvelous feeling when you see her all prettied up just for you? I’m sure she feels the same way, I know I was when I saw your mother.” The old man’s eyes had a far away dreamy look in them, obviously recalling the event with great pleasure and love.

“Kate will always look beautiful to me, even if she wore rags.” The dreamy expression in the man’s eyes had manifested itself in her voice as she conjured up the picture she held in her mind of the woman who was soon to be her bride.

“I doubt that young woman would be seen dead in rags, Lena, you on the other hand…” as she gave him a sharp glance her eyes caught the teasing twinkle in the depths and she smiled at him, her pensive mood lightening a little.

“Yeah, Dad, right, me in rags sure…she’d still love me though, that I know.” Lena stared at the paddock and the young horseflesh prancing around. Her stomach was fluttering in nerves as she contemplated the ceremony in a little over three hours.

Before he could answer the phone rang and she quickly shot across the room to answer. As her father watched the tense expression change to one of rapt wonder, he opened the French doors and let himself out of the room. Who could stop communication between people so much in love? He knew he couldn’t and never would; it was far too precious a commodity to allow interference.

“Hi, lover, how are you holding up?” Kate asked in a breathless voice, her heart hammering as she made contact with the woman she loved, even if it was through an inanimate object.

“All the better for hearing your voice, I hate being without you by my side.” Lena meant every word as she sighed heavily with her blood pounding through her veins. The sexy voice at the end of the line turned her on as no one else had ever done and to cap it all, there wasn’t even any sexual undertone…yet.

“Ditto that, Love, I miss you too. My mother is fussing around like a chicken without a head, so you are better away from it all. What about your folks?”

“Calm and collected at this end, my dad anyway. Mom is busy with my cousins Alice and Vicky. She wants to ensure that they look the part as bridesmaids. I’m sure she’ll be gunning for me any time now.”

A light chuckle had Kate sighing lightly. She could imagine the expression on her lover’s face and all she wanted to do was reach out and kiss her gorgeous lips, so full and inviting…ARUGH! She really didn’t need to go there…just yet anyway. After all this was over they could be as expressive as possible together and she was going to make certain that Lena never, ever forgot their joining ceremony.

“You know I love you, don’t you, Lena?”

Taking in a shaky breath at the words, Lena smiled widely, “yep, not as much as I love you, Kate.

“Oh you are such a flatterer lover…I was thinking…” Lena heard the hesitation and prompted for more.

“Thinking what, love?”

There were a few moments of silence before Kate whispered into the handset, “she can’t possible spoil our day can she, Lena?”

For a split second Lena wasn’t on the same wavelength before it hit her like a bolt out of the blue. Today was not a day to have that woman in their hair, though she had thought of her minutes before.

“No! No she can’t, Kate! Please don’t let her name even enter that marvelous head of yours, especially today. Today is for people we care about, not to think of that conniving, evil bitch in any way at all.”

“Yes, I know you’re right, but she did say she’d make our lives a misery and interfere with anything we hold dear, what better place in front of all our family and friends.” Lena heard the sorrow in Kate’s voice and wanted desperately to hold her close, knowing that together everything would work out just as it was meant to be.

“All you have to remember today, Kate, is that I love you and in a few short hours we will pledge our love to everyone who is important to us. There is no way on this planet that she gets the opportunity to spoil that for a moment, trust me on that one, Kate, I have it covered.” She hadn’t really, except that the ranch was closed to everyone, but those invited to the joining ceremony. Maybe they needed more people on the gate, yeah she could organize that, or her dad could. Might be tricky at short notice and all, but it would happen if it meant that her love wouldn’t worry.

“I trust you, Lena. I trust you with my love, happiness, soul and my safety. I’ve never been in better hands.”

In the background Lena heard Kate’s mother calling her name. The few minutes of togetherness had to be broken, but it would only be for a short time and then they would be together forever…regardless of what the world or that bitch threw at them; it was meant to be. “Your mother sounds impatient…guess you need to go.”

“I never want to be anywhere but with you when we speak, Lena. You’re right of course, better get all that pampering over with.” Kate smiled as she thought of the process; it wouldn’t be too bad…for her anyway. Lena, on the other hand, would be like a wild stallion being forced into the bit, what she wouldn’t give to see how her mother handled that one.

“Later you and I will never be parted ever again. I love you, Kate. Bye until later.” A goofy smile resided on Lena’s face as she heard the return sentiment and replaced the receiver. As she heard her mother call her name, she groaned with the thought of the torture to come.

* * * * *

The ceremony had been all that Kate had ever envisioned. The sight of Lena walking towards her up the rose petal strewn aisle had been breath taking. Never in her life could she have thought her lover could look any better than she was already in her eyes. However, floating towards her, as if in a dream, was the tall dark haired woman with the brilliant blue eyes, her figure clothed in a marvelous silk cream simple a-line dress. The simplicity of the design enhanced by the delicate flower pattern embossed within the sheer fabric, a simple flower headband complimented the creation as she glided towards the front, a shy smile hovering over her lips as they locked glances.

It was hard to know who was the most captivated; probably they felt exactly the same emotion. As they settled next to each other while waiting for the formalities to start, Kate saw the delight and sensual spark flare in Lena’s eyes. Her own gown of off-white flamboyant brocade was in total contrast to Lena’s. At first glance, the gown with the intricate embroidery was overpowering, but as they stood together, they made a stunning fashion statement. Quite at odds from their usual attire, the scene caused stunned expressions and envious sighs from those congregated for the ceremony.

The moment came for Kate to speak her vows…

Once the moment for Kate to speak her vows came, she took Lena’s hand holding a ring close to her finger. “Lena, you came into my life and rescued me from a loneliness I never knew I felt. My first vision of you set my heart pounding, demanding to find you as my love. Now that I have found you I’ll go wherever you will go, I will stay with you for all time. I pledge my love and my heart to you for this life and beyond. I love you.” With a brilliant smile she slipped the ring onto the waiting finger.

Then, Lena took Kate’s hand as she held a ring poised to decorate her lovely finger. “Kate, my heart was in a prison until I saw your beautiful face. Now my heart soars free, filled with your love. I’ll go wherever you will go; I will stay with you for all time. I pledge my love and my heart to you for this life and beyond. I love you.” Blue eyes fixed on the beautiful face as she slipped the ring on her finger.

Joy and happiness filled the air as the two women stood there captivated by the power of the love and emotions they felt. Finally, Lena bent down and captured Kate’s lips to seal their pledge of everlasting love.

* * * * *

Now, with the party in full swing, they both chatted in separate places to family and friends. For Kate, it was hard not to keep looking at one lovely creation, Lena. The fact that her partner was in a dress for the first time since they’d met only elevated her need to remove the wonderful attire and make love to her as they had never made love before.

Glancing around, Lena had been as good as her word, the whole affair had gone as smoothly as anyone could wish for. Everyone was letting their hair down and enjoying the party completely. This joining ceremony would probably go down in history and she didn’t mind that at all.

The music changed and the leader of the band called for silence then called over the new couple to the dance floor to start the dancing. Kate’s eyes caught Lena’s while she made her apologies and headed for the center of the dance floor. Lena glided towards her just as she had up the aisle. God, could life get any better than this she wondered.

Her tongue traced a delicate line over her lips moistening them as Lena held out her arms. She floated into them to tremendous applause from the onlookers.

“Anyone ever tell you how beautiful you are?” Lena hoarsely whispered into Kate’s ear, her breath like a gentle breeze making her shiver in anticipation. Moving until they were so close that to get any closer, would have created a scene in public.

“Hmm yeah, from time to time,” smiling teasingly up into the sparkling blue eyes of her new partner for life, her love.

“Time to time, really? Well, we must remedy that. I think all the time, every hour of every day wouldn’t do you justice, but I’m prepared to give it a try.” Lena’s voice was now so husky; Kate’s body was shaking inside as the sexual tension built.

“We need…to be…alone!” Kate brokenly announced and was amazed when Lena threw back her head and laughed at her loss of control. “You don’t agree?”

Smiling lovingly at the smaller woman in her arms, “did I say that…alone would be good, better than good…the best!”

“Now I know my Lena is in my arms…for a split second there, I thought I’d joined with someone else. Mind that someone else was like a fairytale, inspiring and so very sexy.”

“I aim to please and…I’ll please you in any way possible.” The low sexy drawl was Kate’s undoing. Wrapping her arms around Lena’s neck she passionately kissed the woman she loved, adored and WANTED!

Wolf whistles and applause complimented the kiss. Lena finally came up for air, her body on fire for the woman she had pledged the rest of her life to. God, she was way too sexy not to ravish right at this moment!

“Alone!” The one word made Kate smile brilliantly as others joined them on the dance floor.

Lena stopped dancing and still holding Kate in her arms whispered. “Give me a minute, then we will say our goodbyes. You and I will go back to the house for one spectacular evening.

Kate felt her heartbeat pick up as she watched Lena move through the crowd and stop to speak with her father, Carl. Turning back to the dance floor, the blue eyes captured green in a come hither gaze.

They met in the middle looking longingly into each other’s eyes. Lena took Kate’s hand. “Shall we say our goodbyes to our parents?” The smile on her face definitely seductive…Kate had no choice but to follow.

Leaving the tent, Kate gasped at the sight in front of her. “Oh, Lena, this is wonderful! Where did you hide this?”

A satisfied smile crossed Lena’s face. “At my folks' place. Do you like?”

“Like, I love it, Lena!” she said as she grabbed Lena’s hand pulling her towards the white carriage adorned with roses and being pulled by a stunningly beautiful white stallion.

Lena helped Kate into the carriage then climbed in so she was sitting close to Kate. Flicking the reins, the horse began heading home while the two women snuggled in each other’s arms.

Arriving at their home, Lena alit from the carriage, then gently took Kate by the waist and lifted her to the ground. Kissing her thoroughly, she picked her up and carried her into the house

They fit perfectly together as they held each other close. As passions reached a fevered pitch, the sweaty bodies slid seductively against one another. Fingers, hands, tongues, lips, mouths, arm, legs, breasts and centers vied for attention, the need for release…overwhelming. Finally, the room and surroundings disappeared as they left the bonds of earth. Powerful orgasms rocked them while explosions of light and love filled their souls. As their bodies and minds soared, there was no distinction between them…they were one, joined for all time and beyond.

Kate lay sleeping as Lena’s arms held her close. I will always protect you, Kate and keep you safe, she thought, recalling the envelope with the word BITCH on it and the message inside. It’s only a matter of time.

When she shared the message with Carl Lawrence, he arranged for them to be protected during their honeymoon. He also started an investigation into the vet and her whereabouts. At least she hadn’t been able to crash the ceremony and spoil that.

Kissing Kate’s cheek gently, she closed her eyes when sleep finally took over. Her last thoughts were about the look on Kate’s face when she saw the honeymoon surprise tomorrow.

* * * * *

Kate was dreaming that someone was calling her name as they knocked on the door. Waking with a start she realized it wasn’t a dream but her mother’s voice. “Mom, what?”

“Time to get up, sweetie. Your breakfast guests will be here soon and you need to be at the airport by eleven.”

Focusing her eyes on the bedside clock, she groaned. “Mom, it’s only seven, give us a few more hours.”

Lena kissed Kate’s bare shoulder. “We’re up, Mom. Be there after our showers.” She continued kissing the shoulder then her lips moved down towards a tempting breast.

Kate let out a laugh, “Oh, no you don’t. You said we were on our way, so no time for that.” Her tone was teasing and light.

Lena took a nipple into her mouth and began sucking causing Kate to shiver in anticipation. Then she looked up into the green eyes. “I did say after our showers…this is before.” She said before beginning her assault on Kate’s body once again.

* * * * *

Once on the plane, Kate asked Lena, “Okay, are you going to tell me where you are taking us?”

A sly smile greeted her. “Not yet my love. You will see…” looking at her watch, “in about three hours.”

Kate yawned. “I don’t know if I can wait that long. Please tell me.” She said batting her eyelashes while running her fingers along Lena’s leg. “We can see if there really is a mile high club.” She winked then spoke to the steward. “May I please have a blanket and pillow?”

The steward quickly opened the overhead, retrieved the items and handed them to Kate.

“Thank you.” She said as she spread the blanket over Lena’s legs as her fingers worked their way between them. “Please tell me, I’ll make it worth your while.”

Lena swallowed as Kate’s fingers began undoing her slacks. “K…Kate, it won’t be a surprise if I tell you now. Oh, my goodness, Kate we aren’t even off the ground yet!” She managed as she captured the fingers between her thighs.

“Well then, I will have to wait to finish, won’t I?” Kate said as she withdrew her fingers. Yawning, she stretched before placing the pillow on Lena’s lap and laying her head down. “Wake me when we are a mile up.” No sooner had she spoken then she was fast asleep.

Lena gently spread the blanket over her partner before kissing her cheek. “Sleep my love, we have a great adventure before us.” She said as she looked at the other passengers wondering which one was watching over them.

* * * * *

“Ladies and Gentlemen, we are preparing to land. Please place your seats in an upright position, fasten your seatbelts and shut all electronic devices off. Thank you.”

Lena gently touched Kate’s face as she whispered. “Hey, sleepyhead, it’s time to wake up.”

Kate moved slightly as she stretched the best she could. Looking up at Lena, her face brightened. “I’m sorry. I should have stayed awake. Are we at a mile yet?”

Laughing, Lena helped Kate sit up and fasten her seatbelt. “No, love, we are landing. Promises, promises is all I get from you.” She said with a glint of laughter in her eyes.

Kate laughed as she looked out the window and off in the distance, she could see the Gateway to the West. “What’s in St Louis?” she asked while picking up the book Lena was reading.

“You’ll see soon enough. I can lend you that book if you want.”

“No, it’s okay. That’s why we have you to do the training…unless, of course, you want me to train you.” A wink greeted Lena.

“You can train me anytime, anywhere, anyplace and anyway you desire.” Lena said as she stole a quick kiss as they felt the wheels touching the ground.

As the cab drew up to the dock, Kate’s eyebrows crinkled. “What are we doing here?” She was totally confused as to what and where they were going.

Lena pointed out to the water. “See that paddle boat, it is taking us on a leisurely trip down the Mississippi River.”

Kate didn’t want Lena to know how disappointed she was. Spending her honeymoon on a small boat with other people around wasn’t her idea of a private time with her partner. “Oh, how nice. How many couples will be with us?”

Lena heard the words as she exited the cab to talk with the woman there to greet them. Leaning back in the cab she said, “Aren’t you coming?”

Kate took a deep breath, “Yes.” She said while sliding across the seat and taking Lena’s hand.

“Chris, this is my partner, Kate. Kate this is Christine; she owns the boat.”

For a moment Kate was taken back. In the close comfort of their family and friends referring to each other as partners was not a problem, but not here. Nonetheless, she held out her hand. “Glad to meet you, Christine.”

The woman was shorter than Kate, with a very muscular, tanned body. Soon two other women approached them. “Ladies, this is my crew, Sam and Linda, they will take care of all your needs.” She said turning, “Will you get their bags out of the cab and put them in the cabin?”

Kate looked around the spacious cabin wondering if other couples had such a big room. The boat wasn’t that big! Hearing the engines start, she sighed, resigned to the trip ahead.

Lena stood and watched Kate while her heart filled with more love. She knew her lover was disappointed with the surprise, but she didn’t have all the information. Guess it is time to fill her in. Lena thought as she went to Kate and took her in her arms. “I love you. Are you happy with my surprise?” A twinkle was evident in her eyes.

Kate forgot all about the boat and the people focusing only on the woman holding her so very close. “I love you too, Lena…only you.”

Lena found it hard to control the passion she was feeling since Kate leaned seductively into her. Finally she managed to say something. “But, what about the surprise, does it make you happy?” She knew the answer, but wanted to hear Kate try to talk around her disappointment.

“Well, it is different. Not exactly what I imagined, but the cabin is certainly big.” She looked into Lena’s eyes and knew she wasn’t believed. “Lena, I love you, but spending our honeymoon on a small boat with other couples isn’t my idea of fun. We will have to hide our love and I didn’t want to do that!” There, she’d said it, and hopefully Lena wouldn’t be hurt.

Lena let out an uproarious laugh. “Oh, Baby, I love you…you are so wonderful.” She said pulling Kate in closer yet. “We are the only couple on the boat…the owner and crew are all lesbians and we won’t see them except when have our meals.”

The look of amazement on Kate’s face was precious as her eyes, along with her mouth were wide opened. “Just us? Really, just us?” Throwing her arms around her lover’s neck, Kate began kissing Lena non-stop.

Soon they were naked and lying in a bed that rocked gently as they were carried down the river. As their bodies hungered for each other, the added dimension of the boat’s motion increased the intensity.

Kate’s fingers were relentless. They plunged deeper and deeper until Lena’s body began to explode just as hers had at Lena’s hand. As they lay in each other’s arms, satiated, a sense of great peace came over them. Here, drifting down a river, they were one and safe from the world of telephones, business and horses. The next five days were theirs alone to explore each other, not just sexually, but personally.

* * * * *

As the boat docked in New Orleans, Kate and Lena thanked Christine, Linda and Sam. Kate hugged each woman while she gushed about the wonderful trip and the great treatment they had received. Lena merely looked on smiling fondly at the small blonde she intensely loved.

Getting into the cab, Kate spoke. “I can’t wait to find out what’s next. The trip down the river was so wonderful I’m not sure anything will be able to compare.”

“Golly, Kate, I hope you will be happy.” Lena smiled reaching over to take Kate’s hand. “First, we go to the French Quarter and the Maison Dupuy for a few days of pampering. Then, if you like, we could take in the two-year-old training auction nearby.”

Kate laughed. “Can’t stay away from the horses for too long can you, love…neither can I. Do you have a tip on a good horse?”

“You know me so well, Kate. Yes, I do and hopefully we can get it for very little. He doesn’t look like much, but I see real potential.”

“Then that is what we shall do. I love you.” Kate said, bringing Lena’s hand up to kiss it, not caring what the driver thought.

The ambience of the antebellum south greeted them as they drove up to the Maison Dupuy. It was everything Lena had hoped for and more. As the door to their room was opened, each woman gasped at the opulent sight before them. Lena tipped the porter then turned to Kate who was standing on the balcony.

“Look, Lena, we can have our meals out here. The courtyard is wonderful…the whole place is wonderful…you are wonderful.” She said gushing before she took her lover in her arms and kissed her in thanks.

“You deserve only the best, Kate and I intend on giving you just that for the rest of our lives.” Hugging her love close then letting go she asked, “What do you say we go out and explore?”

A bright smile crossed Kate’s face. “I have been all over the world, but never to New Orleans. Let’s go and see what we can discover in this exciting place.”

As they stepped out of the hotel onto Rue Toulouse heading to Bourbon Street, Lena looked around wondering which person was their protection. She would keep her eyes open until she could identify the person. Carl said they were the best, she thought as she followed her lover down the street towards adventures.

The day had been memorable for the weary explorers returning to their room. Kate, dropping all her bags, collapsed on the bed. “I think this is one of the best days of my life. Remember the look on that old gypsy’s face when she told us we were bound together for all time?”

Lena looked fondly down on Kate before joining her on the bed. “She was right you know, nothing will ever part us. That necklace looks wonderful on you.” A smile of a fond memory crossed her face. “Shall we order some dinner and have it out on the balcony? It is a beautiful night…almost as beautiful as you.”

Kate laughed as she caressed Lena’s cheek. “You know how to get to me, don’t you?”

“Of course, flattery and food gets you every time.”

“Not as much as you do, my love. Hmm, of course we can skip the food and go straight for dessert.” Kate said as she began removing Lena’s clothes.

Lena, lost in the haze of Kate, could only respond by kissing her lover. “Dessert is my favorite part.” She said before joining Kate in clothes removal.

* * * * *

Entering the auction arena of the fairgrounds, Kate and Lena inhaled the smell of horses and hay.

“I forgot how wonderful that smell is, Kate.” Lena said as she stood at the rail looking over the horses there.

“Vacations are great, but I will be glad to go home tomorrow.” Kate’s eyes became fixed on a superb chestnut stallion in a pen alone. “What a fantastic horse, Lena, why is he alone?”

“Probably couldn’t keep to himself around all the ladies.” Lena quipped as she headed for the horse.

“Lena, stop, I’m serious. Do you think he’s wild or something?” Kate trailed behind her love until she joined her at the fence.

“Here boy.” Lena said softly as she motioned to the horse to come. As the horse drew closer she pulled Kate closer. “Here he comes…doesn’t seem wild to me. I think he is just too much of a ladies man.”

“He is magnificent, Lena. Look at his lines and the power of his body. Hey, what are you doing? You can’t do that! Lena, stop.” She called out as her lover was climbing over the fence to inspect the horse up close.

Kate watched in amazement as Lena stood by the horse, running her hands over his body then lifting a lip to see the his teeth. Patting his hindquarters, Lena walked back over to the fence and climbed back over.

“Now, that is a horse! He has winner written all over him.”

Kate looked at Lena, puzzled by her attention to the horse. “This isn’t the scraggly horse you came here to see is it?”

A hearty laugh could be heard throughout the arena. “Noooo, Kate. Come with me and I will show you that one.”

“How much do you think the chestnut will go for?” Kate asked looking back once again.

Stopping at another corral, Lean pointed to a rather small, thin horse standing in the corner of the pen. “There she is, doesn’t look like much does she?”

Kate shook her head, trying not to laugh at the pathetic horse Lena thought could be a winner. “You’re not serious are you? I know you are the expert, but you’ve got to be kidding.”

The stunned look on Lena’s face didn’t go unnoticed by her partner. “You’re serious! Oh God, I’m sorry, you know horses…I’m sure that one has something I’m missing.” Her eyes were pleading with Lena for understanding.

“No problem, let’s go find our seats, the auction is about to begin.” Lena said gruffly as she took Kate’s hand. “Harvey Tanner said we could use his box, let’s go.”

Kate stopped in her tracks refusing to go further. “Not until we settle this, Lena Corkill. I said I was sorry. To my untrained eyes that horse looks like it would have a hard time at a pony ride. I’m sorry I questioned your judgment…can you accept that?”

Lena stood there as Kate read her the riot act then reached in her pocket and handed Kate a piece of paper. “Perhaps this will answer your questions.” She said with a raised an eyebrow.

Taking the offered paper, Kate opened it and read the notes on the horse. Looking up into Lena’s eyes she could feel her face burning. “Come with me, please.”

Lena dutifully followed her partner back to the corral. “Now, please, look at that horse and forget what you know. Does she look like she came from a championship line?”

Lena looked critically at the horse and began laughing. “She is rather pathetic isn’t she? Actually, I was thinking, with a line like hers she would make a good brood mare. What do you think?”

“I love you.” Kate said as she gave Lena a discrete hug. “A brood mare is a good idea although I’m not sure how attractive she will be.”

Lena leaned in and whispered, “They go by smell, not looks.”

Kate felt a shiver go through her body as she felt the hot breath in her ear. “Oh really, what do you go by?” She rubbed up against the body leaning on the fence.

“How about I show you later.”

“Count on it. Now, which of our horses do you plan for a stud for our brood mare?”

“Ah, I hoped you would ask. Come with me.” Leading her partner they stopped at the chestnut’s pen. “Kate, I would like you to meet our new horse, Kate's Pride.”

Kate couldn’t help herself; she grabbed Lena by the neck and hugged her before she kissed her thoroughly. “You are so good to me. I love you.” Then she kissed her again.

Lena pulled Kate close. “Glad to make you happy.
A few of the guys from the farm are here to take our horse’s home. What do you say we find them and they can finish up here? We can go back to a leisurely bath and a nice dinner on the patio.”

A bright smile lit up Kate’s face. “Now, that sounds like a delightful way to spend our last night in New Orleans.”

High in the arena, cold eyes watched them leave.

* * * * *

At some point during the night, Lena knew they were not alone. Lifting her head she saw a figure standing at the foot of the bed.

“How did you get in here?” she demanded.

“That man was a waste of your money, he didn’t protect you very well.” Cornelia hissed.

“Get the hell out of here!”

“Not until I get what I came for. You two made a fool out of me and now you must pay.” Cornelia sneered as she raised her gun.

Lena’s eyes widened at the sight of the gun with a silencer. “Put it away, Cornelia, you don’t want to do this.”

An evil smile crossed her face. “The hell I don’t!”

In the instant it took for Lena to realize Cornelia was going to fire, she flung her body across Kate’s feeling the burn of the bullet entering her body. A second shot rung out and she felt Kate’s body lurch with the impact.

Lena regained consciousness feeling the blood leaving her body. Checking Kate’s body first, it was still warm though the pulse was weak, then struggling to reach the phone; she picked up the handset and waited for the desk to answer.

“Front desk, may I help you?”

A weak voice spoke. “Please…help us…shot…”

Quickly the woman looked for the name of the occupants in the room. “Ms. Corkill, please tell me what happened.” When nothing else was heard she dialed 911.

The police were the first to arrive and examined the man’s body lying outside Lena and Kate’s suite. Going inside, they saw the women lying on the bed in a pool of blood.

Karen Dixon felt for pulses before she spoke to her partner. “We have one dead and two that are alive…barely…tell the medics to hurry.”

The police officer looked down to see Lena open her eyes and try to speak.

Karen knelt down by the bed, moving her ear close to the wounded woman’s mouth.

“What did she say, Karen?” Harvey Nelson asked his partner.

“Cruella.”

To Go Or To Stay

As life was draining from their bodies, Kate and Lena’s spirits drifted above them and joined together until they were one. They were ecstatic that they would spend all of eternity together. As the happiness, love and joy surrounded them sadness began creeping in.

They heard the police officers discussing the circumstances of the shooting while the paramedics tended to their rapidly dying bodies.

“Not many clues here.” Officer Nelson said as he looked around the room.

“Maybe the crime team will be able to come up with something.” Karen Dixon said watching the paramedics feverishly trying to stabilize the victims. “Wonder who Cruella is?”

The spirits, wanting to spend eternity together, knew that if they left now, Cornelia Cambridge would go unpunished and continue her questionable veterinary practices.

Soon, the spirit, spiraling downward towards the bodies, split before entering them…determined to live. Each spirit, now back in its own body, carried with it a portion of the other. For all time they would be together in spirit, regardless of the outcome of the physical, broken bodies.

* * * * *

Rushing into the hospital, Carl and Belinda Lawrence looked around for the information desk. They received the news at the airport, just as they were preparing to board a California bound plane. Immediately they changed their plans, and within a half-hour were on a plane to New Orleans.

“May I help you?” the volunteer asked.

“Yes, our daughter, Katherine Lawrence, was brought here earlier this morning, we need to find her.” Carl’s usually commanding voice was filled with fear.

“Just a minute.” The woman searched her computer for Kate’s whereabouts. Noting the anxious looks on the faces before her, she was filled with compassion. “Do you have some sort of identification, Mr. Lawrence?”

“Identification? What the hell are you talking about?” Carl was irritated with this waste of time.

“Sir, it’s a new law just passed about patient confidentiality. Please, if you will just show me a drivers license I can give you the information and you can be on your way.”

Pulling out his wallet he threw the required document on the desk. “Here, now where is my daughter?” He demanded.

“Thank you, Mr. Lawrence, your daughter is in surgery. I will notify the operating room you are here. The doctor will come and talk to you as soon as he can. The waiting room is on the second floor.” The woman pointed to the elevators. “You can take that bank of elevators.”

Carl snatched up his license and headed to find his daughter only to stop when he realized his wife wasn’t with him. Turning, he saw her still standing at the information desk speaking with the woman. Walking a few steps back he said, “Come on, Be!”

Belinda looked up at her husband with tears in her eyes. “We need to know about Selena.” She told him as she turned back to the woman. “Yes, I understand, thank you.”

The volunteer, looking at Belinda, could see the fear and sorrow in her eyes and decided to do the right thing. “Mrs. Lawrence, what was the name again?”

“Selena Corkill, her name is Selena Corkill.” Belinda said with hope.

“She’s out of surgery and in recovery right now. That is all I can tell you.”

Belinda felt a wave of relief. “Thank you.” Then she rushed off with Carl to find their daughter and her partner.

* * * * *

After two hours of waiting they were escorted into a small consultation room to wait for the doctor. Carl and Belinda felt their hearts sink when they saw the serious look on the doctor’s face.

“Mr. And Mrs. Lawrence, I’m Rachel Snyder, your daughter’s surgeon.”

With tears in her eyes, Belinda asked. “Is she alive?”

Dr. Snyder sighed, “For now. I won’t kid you, her condition is very critical.”

“What happened?” Carl asked as he put his arm around his wife and pulled her closer.

“The first bullet passed through the other woman, who apparently was shielding your daughter, and lodged in her spleen. The second bullet did far more damage as it tore a hole in her bowel. Right now she is in a coma,” The doctor saw Belinda gasp and patted her hand. “It is a good thing…it aids in healing.” Smiling gently at the distraught mother she continued. “We repaired the bowel. Unfortunately, peritonitis is unavoidable so she’s on a massive antibiotic therapy.”

“What’s the outlook…will she recover?” Carl said shakily.

“There’s no way to tell right now. I’ve seen some survive. She is very sick; time will tell…the first twenty-four hours will be critical. She is young and in good health…that is a strong point for her. Right now she is in recovery then she will be moved to intensive care. Someone will let you know when that happens and you can see her then.” Looking at her watch, the surgeon asked. “Is there anything else I can tell you?”

“The woman with her…do you know anything about her?” Belinda asked tentatively.

“Are you related?”

Carl, his voice firm, spoke. “She is our daughter’s partner…our daughter-in-law.”

Shaking her head the surgeon said. “I see. Legally I can’t tell you about a non-relative’s condition or treatment…she was shot in the back with the bullet passing through her lungs and carotid artery. That has been repaired, but like your daughter, she’s in a coma. The bottom line, they’re both in critical condition and shouldn’t be alive, but are.” Looking at her watch once again, she said. “I need to go now. If you have any questions or concerns, ask one of the nurses or aides to page me.” Then she patted Belinda’s arm. “We will do everything we can to pull them through.”

No sooner had the couple returned to the waiting area then a well-dressed man approached them.

“Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence, I’m Detective Hardy from the New Orleans police department. I know this is a difficult time for you, but I do have a few questions, if you don’t mind.”

“Certainly, but I’m not sure how we can help, we’ve only just arrived.” Carl said. “I would like to know exactly what happened.”

“Of course.” The detective took a deep breath. “Apparently your daughter was in bed with a woman…” he searched their faces for surprise. “An intruder came into their room after killing a man in the hallway…” he saw the look of horror on their faces. “From the best that we can determine, the other woman,” he looked down at his notebook, “a Selena Corkill, apparently saw the person and attempted to shield your daughter. After the perpetrator left, the Corkill woman called for help.”

Belinda’s eyes fixed on the detective. “The Corkill woman, as you call her, is our daughter’s partner. Thank God she was there to try and save Kate.”

Carl patted his wife’s hand. “Do you have any idea of who did this, detective?”

“My initial thought was a hate crime, but apparently Ms. Corkill knew the person.”

“She did? Who was it? Have you arrested them?” Carl and Belinda asked over each other.

“There’s very little physical evidence other than the recovered bullets and a name. Cruella. Do you know who that is?”

Belinda gasped as she heard the name. “Cornelia Cambridge, Lena called her Cruella.”

“I will need all the information you have about this person.” Detective Hardy said as he sat down.

An hour later, Anna and Seymour Corkill arrived and went immediately to the intensive care unit. They were allowed to visit Lena for a few minutes.

“She is so pale, Seymour, with so many wires and tubes.” Anna said as she clung to her husband’s hand.

“I know, sweetheart, but she is a fighter and if anyone can beat this, our girl can.” Seymour squeezed his wife’s hand. “We need to go and find Kate’s parents and see how she’s doing.”

Slowly leaving her daughter’s room, Anna looked once again at her very still child. “You know, if she could hear that beeping it would drive her crazy.” She said with a small laugh. “I need to make a call and get a prayer chain going.”

“Come with me, Anna, we will find Carl and Belinda then the chapel.”

Finding the two other distraught parents, they hugged and sobbed as they clung to each other for solace. Sitting in the waiting room of the Tulane University Hospital, they began their long vigil.

* * * * *

By having a part of each other’s spirit, Lena and Kate drifted in and out of each other. Each feeling the other’s pain and fear. Lena could feel the anguish of her partner as Kate struggled to fight the infection and pain.

“Kate, let me fight for you. Go into my body and rest and I will stay here. Together we will conquer what Cruella did to you; then we will find her and have our vengeance.”

“Lena, I’m so tired…I want to go back and spend eternity with you.”

“I know you do, baby, and one day we will, but right now we need to live and right the wrong she did. Now go and rest, I will be here fighting to keep you alive.”

Gratefully, Kate left her body and entered the warm loving body of her partner’s. There she would renew her strength then return to her own body where she would fight again to live.

Not until Kate won her battle would Lena open her eyes or leave her partner’s side. Together they would fight and live, secure in the knowledge, that for all time, they would be one.

It was two weeks before they opened their eyes. The doctors were amazed they both came out of their comas at the same time. More startling was Kate’s rapid recovery.

“I just don’t understand, Mr. Lawrence.” Dr. Snyder said. “A ruptured bowel is a horrible illness that usually results in death or at least three to four months of intense therapy. Yet, Kate appears to be completely recovered.”

Kate, whom they thought was sleeping, opened her eyes. “I had help.” She whispered. “Lena was there for me.”

Dr. Snyder cocked her head as she looked at Kate. “How could she help you…she was in a coma too?”

Slowly, Kate closed her eyes as a look of peace came across her face. “I know.” She said before falling back into a restful sleep.

Once Lena confirmed that Cornelia was indeed responsible for the shooting, a warrant was issued for her arrest. Unfortunately, she seemed to have disappeared from her usual haunts.

* * * * *

Home At Last

As the limo drove down the dusty road to Merridoc, Kate and Lena’s hearts soared upon seeing their beloved home. After their release from the hospital, they had spent five weeks in California in the Lawrence’s second home. Slowly they regained their strength while basking in the sun and in the glow of their love.

Reaching over, Lena took Kate’s hand. “Home at last. Sure looks wonderful, doesn’t it?”

Kate’s green eyes fixed on her partner. “Wonderful is a good description of anywhere you are.”

Lena laughed. “You are such a flatterer, my love.”

As the car pulled up in front of their house, Carmen came flying towards the car. Opening the door, she clasped her hands over her heart. “Thank God” was all she could manage to say as she helped Kate out of the car before engulfing her in a hug.

Lena came around the car and stood by the two crying women. “Hey, Carmen, what am I, chopped liver?”

Releasing Kate, she turned and looked Lena over. “You are so thin.” She said before wrapping her arms around the taller woman.

As they walked into the house Carmen chattered. “Your room is all ready for you and I have made all your favorites. Now that I have you two, I will make sure you are taken care of properly. What have you been eating? Nothing obviously…I will take care of that.”

Both Kate and Lena laughed as they each put an arm around the amazing woman. Without speaking they told each other…it’s great to be home.

Later that afternoon, the two women walked casually to the stables. The staff had followed Lena’s training schedules and worked overtime to make sure everything was accomplished. The results of winning the races earlier were the addition of new horses, sent by their owners to Merridoc, for training.

Resting against the fence, Kate watched as her stallion romped around the corral. He was a magnificent horse; there was no doubt about it. Her eye caught a glimpse of a slender grey mare that was the object of the stallion’s eye. “Lena, that horse over there, the grey, that isn’t the pathetic one from the auction, is it?”

Lena laughed as her arm went around Kate’s waist. “Yep, she sure is. Cleaned up nice, didn’t she?”

“Cleaned up…it’s more than that…she has such presence, look how she stands there so proud and noble.” Turning to Lena she smiled broadly. “You’re a wonderful judge of horse flesh…sorry I questioned you.”

“Long gone and forgotten, love. It’s time for the meeting with the crew, are you ready?”

Taking her lover’s hand, Kate led them towards the main stable.

All the Merridoc employees were assembled, most waiting for their first glimpse of the owners since the wedding. A collective gasp went through the crowd as they saw them enter the barn. The last time they had seen the women, they were healthy and strong. Now, they were noticeably thinner and not as vigorous as they remembered.

A resounding cheer went up around the stable as someone yelled out. “We’re glad you’re back.”

Broad smiles crossed the women’s faces while they shook several hands before stopping in the center of the barn.

Kate was the first to speak. “I want to thank you all for coming today…I know, for some of you, it is your day off. We want you all to know how much we appreciate your support and prayers for us over the last two months.” Turning, she smiled at Lena. “I don’t think Merridoc would have survived if it hadn’t been for everyone’s loyalty and the willingness to go that extra mile. Thank you, everybody.”

Smiling, Lena held her hand up. “Thank you, for the warm welcome. We’ve had quite a time, but as Kate said, we couldn’t have done it without everyone here. As you know, Merridoc is now a hot commodity with everyone wanting our services and expertise. We will be searching for another trainer or two and I would prefer to fill that position from within. Let me know if you are interested in working towards your trainer’s license.” Lena smiled as the voice of Kate filled her mind. Get on with it, I want to take you to bed. Shaking her head and winking at Kate, she continued speaking. “Before I let you all go, I want to announce the first annual Merridoc Family picnic, to be held here on the seventh. You are all invited along with your families and significant others to be our guests. There will be food and all kinds of surprises including a fireworks show. Thank you all again, we are so very proud to have you on our team.”

Taking Kate’s hand, Lena turned and started for the house only to be surrounded by their happy employees.

Kate gave her soul mate an internal shake of the head. Why was it whenever she wanted her woman alone there was always someone or something in the way?

Smiling graciously into the happy throng of well wishers, a shiver went down Kate’s back as she recalled the ease in which a violent, vicious person had violated their lives. In a split second they could have been robbed of everything, even the connection they now thought of as natural.

It was a comfort to know that all the pain had been cushioned in such a marvelous way…sharing inner thoughts and reactions to situations as one. When nightmares flared from time to time, as one would expect, the other would stand right there in the spiritual world holding on tight until they subsided. The richness of the bond created a cocoon for them for all time. All the difficulties life might possibly throw at them would always be shared until their physical bodies died naturally. Then they could be one in eternity, just as they had experienced for a brief time.

Kate glanced at the friends and employees, not to mention the horses, all around them and smiled. Lena had been right, they could afford to play their part here until the end because they had the luxury of knowing something that so few did; they would be together in the next life and what a glorious prospect that was.

Lena frowned for a second when she picked up the initial negative thoughts, which cleared immediately, from her lover. As she felt fear depart, the happiness and rightness of living kicked out any trace of the gloomy feelings up and over an inner mountain range, to be buried forever in a dark place never to be seen again...without a chaperone, and she was that personification always.

Clasping Kate’s hand in hers as tight as possible without causing pain, she felt the responding squeeze back. Yep, they were still on a quest, but one that could only end up going from strength to strength ending in a dazzling conclusion, together forever! Who could ask for more than that? She certainly couldn’t and wouldn’t.

* * * * *

The next two weeks were a blur as preparations for the big picnic were made. The area near the river around the oaks was transformed into a picnic park. A dock was built and canoes and paddleboats were brought in for rides on the river. Six booths were set up for games, complete with prizes for winners. To one side were booths for ice cream, hotdogs, fries, cotton candy and popcorn. In the middle of the area, a large stage was erected for live music and dancing. Caterers came to set up their tents for the wide variety of food to be served. In another tent, tables and chairs, along with a buffet table, were arranged. In one corner of the field, builders built a corral for pony rides.

Waking and stretching, Lena kept her eyes closed as she mentally prepared herself for the upcoming day. She and Kate would direct the final touch to their big party, the banner placement over the entrance to the picnic park. Smiling when she heard Kate enter her mind, she rolled over and hugged the smaller woman to her. “Good morning, beautiful.”

“Hmm, good morning to you too my wonderful lover.” Kate snuggled closer. “What time is it?”

Lifting herself up, Lena peered at the clock. “Eight. What time were we meeting the guys?”

Kate closed her eyes. “Eight thirty. Think we can call them and make it later?”

Lena bent in and kissed Kate’s cheek. “What did you have in mind?” She asked as she began kissing the tempting neck.

“Me, you, shower.” Came Kate’s response as her fingers lightly touched Lena’s body.

“Ah, my very own Jane sounds good to me. After all, we don’t want to be dirty for our big picnic.” Her lips worked their way up to waiting lips.

The kisses grew deeper as the women relaxed into the love they felt for each other. Since the shooting, their lovemaking had taken on the new dimension of actually feeling each other’s passion and need.

The ringing of the phone had them breaking their kiss when Kate answered.

“Hey, boss, we’re here. Want us to start putting the banner up?”

Gathering her wits, Kate spoke. “No, no Tom, we will be there in about fifteen minutes. We want to be there.”

Hanging up the phone, Kate smiled, and then kissed Lena. “Guess we will have to hold that thought. Why don’t you jump in the shower and I will have Carmen bring us coffee and toast.”

One more kiss and Lena jumped out of bed and headed for the bathroom. Kate watched the naked body walk away and shook her head in frustration as she thought about making love to her partner. Out of the bathroom she heard Lena say, “I heard that!” then laugh.

Sitting on their horses, the women watched as the picnic banner, in the farm’s colors, was raised.

 

Merridoc Welcomes YOU! 1st Annual Family Picnic

A smile filled the women’s faces. Happy days were upon them and this was the beginning. It was going to be a wonderful day.

* * * * *

Their guests began arriving as Kate, on her new stallion, and Lena, on her grey, rode up to the picnic park. Releasing the horses in the fenced field, they began greeting their guests. Off in the distance, the delighted squeals of children could be heard.

Flopping down on a chair Lena sighed. The day, along with weeks of preparations, began to take their toll on her still healing body. Looking through the crowd she spotted Kate and noticed the worn, tired look on her face. I’m over here, love, come join me. Her mind called out. Kate turned and her green eyes glowed with love. Excusing herself she made her way to her love, her salvation.

“Hi there, beautiful.” Lena said as Kate sat down next to her. “You look tired, are you okay?”

Kate’s fingers caressed Lena’s cheek. “I’m fine, this is such a special day. Look at all our friends having such a good time. I’m glad we did this.”

Lena’s hand captured Kate’s and brought it down to her lips and kissed it. “I’m glad too, it’s nice to give back. What do you say I take you for a canoe ride?”

Laughing Kate stood up. “Only if you promise not to splash me.”

“Oh, I can’t promise that, but I will make every effort to keep you dry…for now.” The glint in Lena’s eye let Kate know she was in trouble.

Stepping carefully into the wobbly canoe, Kate eyed Lena who was steadying the vessel. “Thank you, love, now it’s your turn.” Kate said as she held onto the dock to steady the canoe.

Once in, Lena handed Kate a paddle then took one too. As they maneuvered out to the middle of the river, Kate let out a yell as a paddle, full of water, hit her back. “Oh, sorry, I can’t seem to get the hang of this thing.” Lena said as she tried to hold back a laugh.”

Kate looked back over her shoulder. “Yeah, right, and you can’t ride a horse either.” She said as her paddle hit the water and a stream of water hit Lena. “Oh, sorry, I can’t seem to get the hang of this thing.” Kate said as she began laughing with Lena.

“Okay, truce. We will just have a leisurely ride down the river to the buoys then back again.” Lena said with the glint still in her eyes.

As they neared the buoys Lena asked. “Are you having a good time?”

“Of course I am! After all you are doing all the paddling giving me a chance to work on my tan.” Kate’s thoughts traveled to a visit she had taken to England when she’d had a year at Oxford as an exchange student. Reminding her of beautiful summer days and punting on the river. Then she had been with friends and spent much of the time with a nose in her books. Now, she’d much rather she had a nose…whoa, there, girl. A sensual smile crossed her lips as she watched her lover. Her thoughts were sure to be captured by Lena…and sure enough, the next action proved her right in an unexpected way.

“Glad you are enjoying yourself. I’m getting hot…think I will go for a swim.” With that she stood up causing the canoe to rock severely.

“Lena, what are you doing? Sit down before we tip over!”

The glint was in full force as stood on the seat then jumped in the water while the canoe began tipping over. Soon they were both in the river splashing each other with abandon.

Swimming over to her partner, Kate grabbed her around the waist. “You will pay for this, you know?” Then she kissed her soundly before swimming for shore and the crowd of onlookers.

After their concerned friends left, Kate stretched out in the soft grass next to Lena. “This has been one great day, thank you.”

“For what?” Lena said as she lifted her head to look into the green eyes.

“For all sorts of reasons, but mostly for being you.”

Bending down to meet the waiting lips, Lena kissed her partner. “The day isn’t over yet, you know…we have dancing to do.”

“Mmm, holding you close. Now that sounds like something worth waiting for.”

* * * * *

As darkness fell, Kate and Lena stood side by side leaning on the pony corral fence. Soon the fireworks would start as a final tribute to the friends and families of Merridoc.

Lena kissed Kate’s cheek. “How about I go get us a beer then we can watch the fireworks?”

“Sounds good to me.” Kate replied as she gave out a sigh of happiness. “Hurry back, I’ll keep your spot warm.”

“In that case, I’ll run.”

Kate began to climb the fence so she could sit on top of it when she suddenly felt something cold against her neck. Turning, she gazed into the deranged eyes of Cornelia Cambridge who held a gun in her hand.

“Surprise, slut, it’s me!” She exclaimed. “Now get down from there.” She ordered.

“You won’t get away with this…there are hundreds of people here.”

“We’ll just see about that.” Cornelia spat out, shoving the gun into Kate’s neck.

Lena was half way back with the beers when she felt Kate enter her mind. Fear and panic filled her making her drop the bottles and run to the corral. She slowed down when she saw Kate standing where she had left her. Puzzled by the intense feelings of hate and fear she felt coming off her lover, she cautiously approached.

“Kate? Are you okay?” Lena asked as she neared her partner.

A strange expression crossed Kate’s face when she tried to smile. The feeling of foreboding became overwhelming to Lena as she looked around the area. She scanned every possible direction for any reason for the upset to her and Kate’s equilibrium, there was nothing!

“Why not come with me and sit with my parents, they have a really good view.” In her mind Kate was screaming to her…Run, Lena, Run.

Just then a figure appeared from behind Kate. “She’s not going anywhere with you, bitch…you are both coming with me. Now get over here with your slut!” Cornelia hissed.

Lena felt the jolt of surprise and horror as their nemesis appeared from out of nowhere. A feeling of deja vu overcame her for a moment, but how? Speeding towards Kate’s side, “I’m the one you want, take me and let her go.” Lena pleaded.

“Shut up, bitch and start walking that way.” Indicating the pasture area where it was totally dark.

Once in the darkness, Cornelia grabbed Kate by the waist and pointed the gun towards Lena.

“You won’t get away with this. As soon as they hear the gunshot you will be surrounded.” Lena reasoned.

“You pathetic, fucking bitch. Don’t you know your little gathering here is the perfect place? Once those fireworks start, no one will hear my gunshot.”

Lena entered Kate’s mind. When I say duck, I want you to fall to the ground and I will jump her.

Kate answered back. Like hell you will. When I say go, I will stomp on her foot then fall to the ground. That will give you more time.

That’s why I love you…you think quickly on your feet. I’m ready when you are.

Kate looked at Lena and winked. “Go.” She shouted as she dug her boot heel into Cornelia’s foot.

Cornelia let go of Kate in reaction to the pain, letting Kate fell to the ground. Lena propelled herself through the air grabbing the hand with the gun, both crashing on the hard earth. Just then, the fireworks started filling the sky above them with color and light.

Cornelia struggled to get Lena off her while Lena continually banged the gunned hand against the dirt, her strength waning as she did so. Before the shooting, she would have flung this piece of shit across the pasture with ease, now, however, she was drained by the effort. With her free hand Cornelia punched Lena hard in the chest causing her to gasp in pain, but didn’t let go of the gun hand.

Kate crawled over to the struggling women and pried the gun out of Cornelia’s hand just as the deranged woman managed to push Lena off her. The vet then took hold of the hand holding the gun and punched Kate in the lower abdomen. The pain was overwhelming causing the blonde woman to see stars.

Quickly standing up, Cornelia pointed the gun at the women. “Get up!” She screamed. “Get up now or you’ll die where you are!”

Struggling to her feet, Lena helped Kate, noting the pain her partner suffered from the bitch’s punch. Breathing heavily, Lena once again tried to plead with the crazy vet. “Let her go, Cornelia. She has nothing to do with this; it’s me you want. Let her go.”

“That is where you are wrong, bitch. I want her too. You both humiliated me and need to pay.” A mad laugh ensued. “But first, a little entertainment.” She then began shooting at their feet insanely laughing as they “danced” for her.

The fireworks were booming one after another synchronically with the bullets hitting the ground. Suddenly, out of nowhere, came a thundering set of hooves. Kate’s Pride, extremely agitated by all the noise, reared up in front of them. Targeting one source of noise, his hooves came crashing down knocking Cornelia over.

At first, Kate and Lena stood there as if in a trance. The chestnut stallion was whinnying loudly as his hooves landed once again on the vet. Coming out of her daze, Lena started waving her arms and shouting at the horse. Kate joined in until the stallion turned away from the vet. It was at that time the fireworks ended and quiet once again filled the air.

Lena walked over to the still nervous horse and spoke softly to him. Kate went over to Cornelia whose body lay on the ground with hands over her head and legs tucked in. Kicking the gun away, she knelt down and touched the body. A hand grabbed hers, holding on tight before letting go.

Standing up, Kate went to Lena who had calmed the horse down. “Guess he was paying her back for all the horses she put down. She’s dead.” Then, taking Lena’s hand, they walked back to the celebration for help.

With Cornelia dead, life had an appeal that vied with the incredible security of knowing that even in death they would still journey on a quest ridden on behalf of love!

The End