PART SIX

"Man, I can’t believe it’s this nice. I thought it was never gonna stop raining this spring." Claire looked up at the bright blue sky and squinted. Her hand automatically traveling back to her mouth where she enjoyed another large bite of hamburger. "Yumm…These are really terrific. Did I tell you that already?" she mumbled, her mouth still full.

Amanda nose crinkled as her smile broadened. "Yes. But you can say it as much as you like. It’s the first thing that I’ve cooked in ages that hasn’t ended up charred." She sat down the long metal spatula. "But don’t be too impressed. It’s just hamburger and onion soup mix."

"Yeah, but I didn’t have to fix it, or call for delivery."

Amanda looked around, admiring Claire’s large redwood deck and her turbo- charged gas grill. "How did you end up with this?" Amanda pointed to the grill.

"It’s Mark’s. He brought it over for a big barbecue we had a few years ago and the bum won’t come back and get it. He and the kids come over every Fourth of July and we have a picnic and play in the yard."

Amanda grabbed her own plate and plopped down on the padded wooden bench alongside Claire. While Claire was looking at Missy, who was playing on a blanket in the yard, sneaky fingers stole several chips from the darker woman’s plate.

"Hey! Get your own." Claire pulled away her plate as her attention was drawn back to her disappearing lunch.

"But yours looks better!" Amanda pouted.

"It’s exactly the same as yours." The lawyer arched an eyebrow. "How can it look better?"

Amanda shrugged, her fake pout evaporating as she continued munching on the stolen chips. "Dunno. Just does."

Claire smiled indulgently and placed a light kiss on Amanda’s cheek. "Here," she offered the plate back to her friend. "They’re all yours."

Amanda returned the kiss, but this time on the lips. She lingered there for a moment before sighing and pulling away. When she opened her eyes she found herself captured in a pool of stunning blue. "Thanks," she whispered affectionately, savoring the feeling of warm familiarity that always seemed to rush through her in the taller woman’s presence. Before returning her attention to her daughter, she happily grabbed several more of Claire’s chips. "I knew I liked you for a reason."

Claire snorted and took another bite of hamburger. "Who knew Doritos were such an aphrodisiac?"

Laughing at her friend’s dry humor, Amanda stood to get a better view of Missy, who had wandered off the blanket onto the lush grass. The little girl was hunched over and appeared to find something very interesting among the bright spring flowers. Uh oh. Amanda sat down her plate walked a few steps down the deck stairs.

"Whatcha lookin’ at sweetheart?" she called out.

The girl squealed with delight, as Claire joined Amanda on the steps to see what the fuss was about. Missy suddenly straightened, waiving a large, black, wiggling cricket in her hand. "Bug! Bug!" she yelled to her mother.

"Missy, put the bug…"

The small blonde immediately popped the insect into her mouth.

Claire winced as Amanda bolted the rest of the way down the steps and began trying to pry the little girl’s lips apart. "Eewwww! Missy that is so disgusting…here…spit it out." The stubborn child refused to open her mouth and gulped loudly as she defiantly swallowed the bug.

Claire flinched as she knelt down a few feet in front of the child. God, kids are totally gross! Did I eat live bugs? she wondered.

Amanda looked down at the child, her hands resting on her hips in the universal maternal scolding position. Shaking a finger she reprimanded her daughter. "That was a bad girl! Bugs are not to eat. Only food goes in your mouth."

Claire looked up at Amanda, who was obviously not too worried nor too surprised by her daughter’s unusual lunch selection. "Will she be okay?" The larger woman’s face paled slightly.

The therapist nodded, amused by Claire’s distress and obvious inexperience with young children. "Sure." She placed a reassuring hand on Claire’s shoulder. "It was just a cricket. Could’ve been worse." Claire looked up doubtfully. "Could’ve been a spider or small snake," Amanda offered.

The toddler wobbled over to Claire who was still kneeling on the grass and now thoroughly grossed out. "Chips!" the girl screamed as two tiny hands reached out and stole the last of Claire’s Doritos.

Amanda was about to correct Missy’s behavior when Claire looked up at her with narrowed eyes. "And what were you going to tell her, Mandy?" Claire inquired wryly as she brushed off her knees and stood.

Smiling innocently, Amanda scooped the child up and began marching up the deck stairs. "Let’s go brush your teeth, Kiddo."

A few moments later both blondes reappeared on the deck. The shorter one walked over to Claire, who had been impatiently waiting for their return, and sharply tugged her pant leg. Blue eyes peeled themselves off the child’s mother and rested on the little girl’s fair head.

"Tanks for chips Cwairrr." Missy threw her arms around Claire’s legs and hugged her tightly.

Claire smiled down at the girl, and felt a strong blast of affection. Lord, I’m in deep trouble here. The daughter gets to me just as easily as her mother. "You’re welcome, Missy."

Amanda could see that Claire was doing her best to wrestle a goofy grin off her face. The young mother smiled proudly as Missy released her captive and looked pointedly at the stairs. You do have a sentimental side, don’t ya Gumby? Grabbing her daughter’s hand, the pair slowly descended the stairs together. When the child was settled back onto her blanket with a fresh batch of toys, Amanda walked back to Claire, who was sitting on the edge of the deck her long legs dangling free, and her chin resting on the low redwood railing.

Amanda frowned a little at the serious contemplative face below her. "Whatcha thinkin’ about?" she inquired softly.

Claire glanced up at her friend. "Hmm? Oh…nothing I guess." The brunette patted the wood beside her and Amanda joined her, tucking her own feet beneath her.

Amanda waited a few moments in silence before she wearily ventured into uncharted waters with Claire. "If something is bothering you…well…you could discuss it with me…if you wanted to."

"No. But thanks." Claire voice was firmer than she’d intended, and she didn’t miss the look of hurt that flickered across Amanda’s eyes. Even so, when Claire opened her mouth to speak, she quickly closed it, deciding to remain mute.

Amanda scrunched pale brows together. She was fine a few minutes ago. Why wouldn’t she…oh...right. "It’s my job, isn’t it?"

Claire shifted guiltily. Damn, am I that transparent?

The smaller woman sighed and grasped Claire’s hand. Her voice was teasing but it still held a serious edge. "Me being a psychologist, well…it tends to freak people out. Somehow they get it into their heads that I’m analyzing everything they say." Amanda’s eyes pinned Claire. "I don't do that, you know."

Claire decided to face the issue directly. Amanda’s profession, and what it might mean in the context of their relationship, had been a festering spot of worry for her since the beginning. "How could you not do that? I know I’m always seeing the ‘legal aspect’ of things. Can you really just turn off your training?"

"Claire, it’s not a matter of…" Amanda stopped, wondering if she could truly make her friend understand. I need to tell her this or she’s never gonna feel comfortable opening up to me. Firming her resolve, she nodded to herself and began again. "At work, an important part of my job is the ability to maintain a certain level of emotional detachment from my patients. It’s what they need from me. It’s also what I need in order to perform my job. And that’s something…" green eyes softened and Claire felt the smaller hand wrapped around hers squeeze gently "…I could never have with you. I don’t want to be detached or unbiased. I want to care…personally… a lot. You just looked like you were thinking about something rough. I was only asking as your friend. I promise."

Claire swallowed hard as she tried to push down the lump that had formed in her throat. Turning away from Amanda, she focused on the relaxed child. "I…I…"

I need to back off a little before I scare the poor woman to death. Amanda’s mind raced to find a way to help her friend relax. Bumping her shoulder against Claire’s, she flashed her friend a cheerful smile. "Don’t worry about it, Gumby. Now, what’s up? Are you still mad at the Greer women for pilfering your Doritos?"

Claire burst out laughing amazed at how hard it was to maintain a funk in smaller woman’s presence. "No. My Doritos are your Doritos," she promised solemnly. "I was just thinking…that I haven’t felt this happy in a long time. With you both here…" her eyes flashed to the tiny figure below the deck "…the property just seems…I don’t know…more like a home than just a house."

"And that makes you sad?"

"A little I guess. It makes me think about how lonely I was before I met you." Claire took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. "And how I don’t ever want to be that lonely again."

Amanda was a little taken aback by the seriousness she saw in Claire’s eyes. But she took the admission for what it was…a small step toward a future where just maybe…neither woman would ever be lonely again. Correctly sensing that Claire was at her emotional limit, she let a comfortable silence settle between them before changing the subject.

Amanda’s reached up and idly fingered a lock of dark hair that fell several inches below Claire’s shoulders. "What’s your middle name?" The small hand moved deeper into the dark mane.

"What?" Claire leaned into the soothing touch, surprised and more than a little relieved by the change of subject. I’ll get there Amanda. Just give me a little time.

"You know, your middle name." Amanda examined the soft shiny hair in detail, admiring the way the afternoon sun brought out its deep chestnut and mahogany highlights. She felt an almost irresistible urge to bury her face in the sable strands and deeply breath in their fresh scent. Admitting to herself that she wouldn’t be able to stop those urges much longer, she lightly kissed Claire’s shoulder and began smoothing the lock back into place. She continued her inquiry. "That’s the name that comes after Claire but before Easton. Come on, I want to find out more about you. I’m a very detail oriented person." She grinned when she saw Claire’s body visibly relax under her touch.

The larger woman was having trouble concentrating on anything. Amanda’s soft touch was affecting her in ways she considered profound. "My name…right. It’s Alexandra, after my paternal grandmother."

"Hmmm. I like it. It’s strong but still feminine, just like you."

Claire smiled at the compliment. I am so crazy about this woman I can hardly stand it! "Thanks. What about yours?"

"What about my what?" Green eyes were now firmly fixed on the soft bare skin on Claire’s arm. That pale blue sleeveless blouse is fantastic. Amanda found herself unwilling to control disobedient fingers as they drifted up and down the warm skin.

Claire groaned. "Jesus, Mandy!" She let out and exasperated sigh and grabbed the small moving hand. Bringing it to her lips she gently kissed its fingertips. Wide blue eyes begged for mercy. "It’s humanly impossible for me to think when you’re touching me like that."

"Fine. Spoil my fun," she teased as she gazed back at Missy who had fallen asleep in the grass. "I think the sugar from those cookies you gave her finally wore off."

Claire nodded and wrapped a long arm around Amanda’s waist, pulling her in closer to sit in front her. "Well…what is it?"

Amanda happily rested her head on the broad shoulder behind her, lightly gripping the arms wrapped around her waist. Once again, the position was accompanied by a peaceful sense of quiet belonging and déjà vu. "I don’t have a middle name."

"What?" Claire questioned. "Everyone has one. Oh boy, yours must be reeeaalllly bad then." She squeezed the sturdy body in her arms.

"Nope," Amanda giggled. "I don’t have one, not even an initial. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Zilch."

"Sure, Mandy," the lawyer drawled, making it quite clear she didn’t believe one word. "I have vvvayyys ov making yuuuuu tok" the dark women threatened. A split second later, she was tickling a squirming therapist.

After a moment of torture Amanda couldn’t take anymore. "I surrender! Uncle! I give!" she squealed between fits of laughter, finally persuading the merciless fingers to still.

"Well?" Claire demanded.

"I…uh.." Amanda burst out laughing again. "Can I tell you later? Pleeeeassse."

Claire rolled her eyes at her companions shameless begging. "Fine. But I won’t forget," she reminded the smaller woman, as she settled her back into a tight embrace.

"Mmm." Amanda snuggled deeper, taking a long moment to enjoy the sun and flowers and thick greenery displayed in Claire’s huge backyard. Plentiful spring rains had left the landscape looking rich and lush and Amanda happily inhaled the smell of grass and the now familiar floral scent of her companion. The blonde had almost fallen asleep, drifting easily into Claire’s irresistible warmth, when a deep voice roused her from the comfortable haze.

"Have you heard from your sister again?"

Amanda frowned at the distasteful topic she’d been trying to put out of her mind for the past week. But somehow, when I’m in her arms the problem seems so much more manageable, she mused silently. "No. She hasn’t contacted me directly but she showed up at my folk’s house yesterday. I talked with my dad on the phone last night." Amanda shifted to face Claire. "God, they were so upset. I don’t think they ever really accepted the fact that Monica had a serious problem. But yesterday she showed up high and looked like she’d been beaten up or in an accident or something."

Claire’s face grew still. "What did she want? Was she alone?"

"He said she was alone and that she was looking for me. Apparently, she couldn’t remember where I live." Amanda pulled back feeling a dark roiling anger pulsing through the lawyer. "It’s okay, Claire. My dad told her to leave and didn’t give her any information." Or, for once any money." She smiled wryly. "Although, as soon as she sobers up she’ll figure out that she can just open a phone book and get my address. I half expected to see her before now."

Claire stiffened and took a deep breath but Amanda spoke again before she could reply. "I want to see her, just not with Missy at home." She looked out affectionately at the sleeping child. "I’ve made arrangements for Missy to stay at Mrs. Fisher’s house for the next few days. Her two-year old granddaughter will be visiting for the next week so Missy’ll have a ball."

Claire didn’t bother to mask her worry. "Seeing her could be dangerous. Who knows what she might do?"

Amanda’s voice took on a fearsome quality. "I…am…not...avoiding…my…sister! We need to talk. I can’t live like this…not knowing when she’s going to show up and make trouble…or…" Amanda swallowed hard, the look on her face making it painfully clear she didn’t even want to think about the her next statement. "Or, wondering if she might show up when I’m at work and try to steal Missy."

Claire could see her friend was doing her best to hold back tears. Shit! What can I say to that? It’s exactly what I’ve been thinking myself. Claire softened her voice and gently cupped Amanda’s chin, forcing watery green eyes to meet hers. "Let me help you. Please." She smiled weakly. "I can’t stand seeing you upset…I…I know I can help you keep Monica from taking Missy legally. But if she really wants to take her illegally, there’s nothing much we can do…except CONVINCE her that would be a VERY bad idea"

Amanda didn’t miss the threatening tone in Claire’s voice. Could I convince Monica to leave us alone permanently? How far am I willing to go? As far as I have to, came the immediate response. But what made her oddly uncomfortable, was that even after Claire’s offer to help, she still wasn’t sure how far the lawyer was willing to go. With that thought, all of Amanda’s own insecurities came rushing back. Why would she want to get involved in this mess? It’s obvious she could have anyone she wanted. Missy and I are going to be nothing but trouble. It’s not fair to her, and as soon as she figures that out she won’t be able to run away fast enough. Amanda’s heart lurched at the thought. Ignoring her aching chest and pounding pulse she screwed up her courage and prepared to let Claire exit the relationship gracefully. Amanda angrily wiped away an errant tear. "C…Cl…Claire," her voice cracked. Just do it quickly. Don’t think about it. "Maybe…"

"No," came the firm reply.

"But..."

"I said NO!" Claire pulled Amanda into a fierce hug and spoke into the soft red-gold hair. "I’m not giving up on you or your problems, and I’m not letting you do this alone."

Amanda tightened her grip on Claire, crushing out all the space between them. "I really don’t want you to let me do this alone," she said miserably.

"Then I won’t," Claire whispered fiercely, grateful beyond reason that Amanda wasn’t going to push her away. She turned and kissed the pale head resting several inches below hers, feeling Amanda’s body relax as the nearly unbearable tension melted away in the embrace. Mandy, I’m so glad I didn’t meet you when I was younger. As nervous and inept as I am with this today, there’s no way I could have handled this then. But now that I’ve finally found you, I’m and not gonna blow this. I’m not!

Amanda pulled back and sniffed. "Well, I guess we’ve got someone to find."

Claire nodded. "And I don’t want to wait. Will you help me tonight?" Claire nodded again, a smile appearing. Amanda leaned forward and brushed a featherlight kiss on Claire’s lips. "Thank you."

"You’re welcome," was the simple response. "I was planning on seeing Mark later today but I’m sure I can reschedule," Claire decided.

Amanda bit her lip, her brow furrowed in deep thought. "Jody and I were supposed to get together too. I’ll call her and give her a rain check. She’s a mature person. She’ll understand."

"I sure as hell DO NOT understand!" Jody ranted.

Amanda took a deep breath and tried to control her own temper. "Jesus Christ, Jody! I told you why I was doing this."

The larger woman crossed her arms and lowered the volume. "It’s too dangerous to go looking for Monica alone," she said sensibly. "You know where you’ll have to look, don’t you?"

Amanda nodded, grimly remembering the neighborhood where Claire’s explorer had been found. "Yes, I know. And I’m not going alone." Jody dropped her arms and lifted her eyebrows in question. Why do I think she’s not gonna like this. "Claire’s going with me."

"What?" Jody practically screamed. The older woman’s voice turned combative as her hands went to rest on solid hips. "You barely know this woman and now you’re going to traipse around the worst neighborhoods in the Twin Cities with her?"

"That’s exactly what I’m going to do." Amanda’s temper flared as she closed the distance between she and Jody. A small angry finger poked her partner’s chest, punctuating each word she spoke. "SO GET USED TO IT!"

Jody stepped back out Amada’s reach and crossed her arms again. "Then I’m going too!"

"No you’re not," Amanda challenged.

"Oh, yes I am!"

"Deal with it Mark. You’re not coming with us." Claire began rummaging through her drawers looking for something to wear. "Do you know what the weather is supposed to be like tonight?"

Mark, leaned against the large oak dresser. "Umm…cool, windy, chance of rain." The big man shrugged. "Same as every night. Listen, wouldn’t it be a better…"

"Nope."

RING…RING…RING…

Claire moved over to her nightstand and clicked open her cell phone. "Hello."

"Hi, Claire."

The lawyer smiled broadly, immediately recognizing her friend’s warm tones. "Hi Mandy." Sticking a tongue out at Mark’s smirk, Claire twisted her body so the smug man couldn’t see her face. "What’s up? I thought I wasn’t picking you for..." she glanced at her watch, "…another hour of so."

"No, that’s right I just…well…Jody’s here and she’s insists on coming with us."

Just great. Claire sighed. "I know what you mean. Mark’s been harping on me for the last 30 minutes. He wants to come along too. What do you think?"

Amanda looked over at her pouting friend. "I think I’ll it would be easier to let them come along than keep fighting about it. I didn’t want to get a bunch other people involved." Amanda narrowed her eyes at her friend who had a satisfied smile plastered all over her face. "But apparently they insist."

Claire could hear Jody’s "damn right I do" in the background. She’d better be nice tonight. I don’t feel like putting up with any of her shit. She winced internally at the idea of spending the entire evening in Jody’s presence. I’ll try to keep from ripping off her head and ramming it down her throat…for Mandy. "Okay Mandy, Mark and I will be there in about an hour."

"Thanks Claire, I appreciate it." I really do appreciate this Gumby.

"Bye."

"Bye." Amanda walked over to the sink and rinsed out her glass. "She didn’t have to do that you know. We were planning on going alone." Don’t push it with her tonight Jody. Don’t make me say something you don’t want to hear.

Jody looked offended. "We had plans tonight too, Amanda," she reminded the younger woman.

"I know." Amanda wrapped an arm around her friend and escorted her out of the kitchen. "Did I mention that a friend of Claire’s is coming along?"

"She has a friend?" Jody snorted. "Another lawyer no doubt. They travel in packs."

"Jody." It was a warning.

"Okay, okay, I’ll do my best to be nice." The dark haired woman pulled out a dining room chair. Turning it backwards, she straddled it. "So what’s her friends name?"

"Mark." Amanda immediately noticed a change in her friend’s demeanor. You are so predictable, my friend.

Jody affected a non-interested pose. "Have you met this Mark?" Her finger trailed around the rim of her iced tea glass, wiping away the moisture.

"Oh yeah. He’s really good looking too." Amanda wriggled her eyebrows. "If I weren’t gay…"

Jody ran a hand through her short hair, sending it further into disarray. Is she just messing with me? She regarded the blonde suspiciously as she swirled the ice around in her glass. "Define good looking."

"Humph. Are you saying I don’t know if a man’s good looking?" Amanda asked incredulously as she sat down in the chair next to her friend.

"Well, it’s not exactly your area of expertise is it?" Jody pointed out sarcastically.

"What? You comment on women’s looks all the time. That’s not your area of expertise!" Amanda noted.

"That’s different. I am a woman. That gives me dominion in both arenas."

Good answer. "Fine. You can just wait and see for yourself." Green eyes twinkled, knowing what her next words would do to her friend. "And you’re probably right. After all what do I know? I mean…6’4’’ and 225 lbs. of solid muscle, along with a great smile, thick fair hair and light eyes… that might not qualify as good looking, right? Oh yeah, did I to mention he’s single?" Amanda burst out laughing as her friend began to choke on her iced tea.

"Why didn’t you say that to begin with?" Jody choked out as Amanda slapped her on the back. Suddenly the older counselor jumped up like she was on fire. "Shit! I haven’t shaved my legs for 3 days!" That comment sent Amanda over the edge. She began laughing so hard tears streaming down her cheeks. "It’s not funny!" Jody complained. "How much time do I have?"

When Amanda finally stopped shaking she wiped her tears with the back of her hands. "Wow! I needed that. Thanks Jody." Boy, did I ever need that. Amanda felt some of the gnawing anxiety she’d been trying force away, recede naturally. She smiled affectionately at her friend. "Relax. You’re wearing pants for heaven’s sake. No one will even see your legs." Amanda stood and motioned her friend to follow her upstairs.

Periodic fits of giggles escaped from the blonde as the women walked down the hallway and entered her room. "Yeah, but I’ll know," Jody whined as she lay down on Amanda’s bed. "It will affect my confidence."

"Ha! That’ll be the day." The blonde disappeared into the walk-in closet. "I already feel sorry for Mark," she teased.

Jody laughed and settled in to wait for her friend. Although Jody liked Amanda’s entire condo, this room was by far her favorite. While the other rooms only contained one or two of Amanda’s watercolors, this room was overflowing with them. The younger therapist was generally shy about her talents, and it took several months of prodding and gentle coaxing before she’d reluctantly agreed to display a few of her paintings at the Cornerstone Clinic. At home, however, she wasn’t in the least self-conscious. But her best work, at least in Jody’s opinion, remained locked away, for her eyes-only. Or, the very few who make it into this room, Jody pondered.

Nearly every bit of wall space was taken as odd shaped paintings filled in what would be unavoidable gaps in space anywhere else. There were even several partially completed paintings displayed "as is," just because Amanda said they made her happy, and it didn’t really matter if she finished them or not.

The bed was large and soft, and laying on it, reminded Jody of the secret nighttime chats she’d shared with her younger brother and sister when they were kids. Jody sighed and regarded the comforter. Sometimes Salt Lake City seemed like a million miles away. Maybe I should get a pet.

"Hang on for a few more minutes Jody. I wanna change into something warmer and I’m not finding exactly what I’m looking for." I wonder if I packed enough warm clothes for Missy? Amanda mentally calculated number of days she estimated Missy would be gone, and compared it to the number of sweatshirts and heavy pants she sent along with Mrs. Fisher. Maybe I’ll get lucky and this will all be over sooner than I think. God, I hope so.

"I hope you sent some warm clothes along with my Buddy. It’s still chilly in the mornings and evenings," Jody called out from her reclining position.

"That’s why I love you Jody. You know, Missy is really lucky to have you for a Godmother," came the reply from the closet.

"And here I thought you loved me for my sparkling personality and great boobs." Jody ducked but nothing flew over her head. That’s weird. I thought that one would get her for sure. Oh well. She waited a full 30 seconds before sitting back up. As she turned her head to say something, a heavy pillow sailed out of the closet and hit her squarely in the face. The momentum sent her reeling backwards off the bed.

Amanda smiled when she heard a loud thump and her friend’s muffled curses. "She shoots, she scores," she called out victoriously as she continued looking for her shoes.

Exactly one-hour later the doorbell rang. "Jody could you get the door for me? I wanna turn off these lights before we leave. Without waiting for an answer Amanda disappeared into the kitchen.

Sure. Jody opened the door to find Mark patiently waiting. Claire was no where to be seen. So far so good, she silently mused.

The large man held out his hand. "Hi. I’m Claire’s friend, Mark Gustafson." He pointed out into the darkness. "She insisted on checking all the window to make sure the place was safe. She asked me to let you know we were here so that she wouldn’t scare anybody."

"Nice to meet you Mark." Jody smiled and returned the firm handshake. I’m Jody Penbrook, Amanda’s business partner. Come on in." She gestured toward the interior. Holy shit, Amanda! When you’re right you’re right.

Mark looked back over his shoulder wishing Claire would hurry up. "Maybe I should wait for Claire?"

"Nah, she’s a big girl." Jody slammed the door shut immediately behind Mark. She smiled sweetly. "She’ll be fine."

"Well, if you’re sure." Mark made his way to the couch and nervously sat down. Where is Amanda? And why does this woman keep looking at me like I’m dinner? Mark took a long hard look at Jody. While not nearly as striking, in a way, her dark good looks and strong features reminded him of Claire. Maybe this evening won’t be as depressing as I thought.

"Hi guys," Amanda said as she reentered the room. Pale brows knit as she looked around. "Is Claire in the bathroom?"

"Hi Amanda," Mark answered brightly.

"Claire is checking all the windows and locks," Jody supplied, unable to keep the acerbic edge completely out of her voice. She mentally rolled her eyes. Jane Bond is back. Although, she was forced to admit to herself, it’s not such a bad idea.

"And she’s doing this alone?" Amanda asked clearly upset.

Both Mark and Jody shifted guiltily.

"Very nice, guys," the blonde woman scolded as she began moving toward the front door. Before she could open it she heard a light knock. Looking back over her shoulder she shot Jody and Mark a look that said ‘you’re damn lucky nothing happened.’ They responded by simultaneously muttering ‘uh oh,’ then smiled as they realized they were thinking the same thing.

"Hi Mandy," Claire said brightly as the door opened and she was faced by her friend.

Amanda grabbed Claire by the wrist and dragged her through the front door. "Why were you walking around outside… in the dark… ALONE?" Three sets of eyebrows raised. "Well?" she demanded.

Claire was completely confused. "I…I…was just checking your locks." Shit! What did I do?

"Because you were worried my sister or her husband would come back and try to break in here?" Amanda finished.

Claire nodded, a little taken aback by Amanda’s obvious anger.

"If it was dangerous enough for you to be worried about my safety, don’t you think it would have been smarter not to go running around alone? I think it’s reasonable for me to be concerned about your safety too."

Claire looked at Jody and Mark who simply shrugged. Looking back at Amanda she could see her friend was truly upset. "I can take care of myself I… you…you...don’t need to be concerned," Claire stuttered.

Amanda released Claire’s wrist and laid her palms flat against Claire’s chest. She could feel the heart under her hands beating furiously. Did I do that? Crap. I really need to work on my temper.

"I want to be concerned, remember?" Amanda lowered her voice so only Claire would hear her. "I’m sorry, Gumby. I’m not really mad. I just got scared," she whispered as her hands began moving in a soothing circular motion. "I guess I’m a little on edge about tonight." Before she even had all the words out she could feel the pounding pulse begin to slow.

The lawyer let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. She was worried about me? Claire glanced over at Mark and Jody who suddenly found their feet extremely interesting. "You’re not mad at me then?" Claire asked Amanda sincerely.

"No." Amanda traced Claire’s collarbone, wondering how long it had been since anyone had wanted to take care of Claire. "I’m not."

"Good." She hugged the smaller woman reveling in Amanda’s obviously ‘touchy’ personality. I’m more than happy to give and receive as many of these hugs as possible. Claire spared herself a fleeting second to enjoy the warmth of concern Amanda was offering. How did I get so lucky? Wait. She really thought I couldn’t handle Monica or Chucky? As if! Claire paused, a little disturbed at how much she’d love the opportunity to ‘handle’ them.

Both Mark and Jody would have preferred not to have witnessed the tender scene, but for very different reasons. When they each sensed the lover’s quarrel was over, they approached the embracing couple. Mark cleared his throat awkwardly.

"It’s okay to talk to us Mark," Claire teased.

Amanda reluctantly untangled herself from Claire and walked over to hug the tall blonde. "Sorry Mark. I guess you didn’t get a proper hello from me." He blushed slightly under the attention.

"That’s okay Amanda, you’re right. I should have gone with her." Mark nervously moved out of the hug and looked at Jody. "So are you a lesbian too?"

All three women stood frozen mid-motion, speechless, their mouths hanging open. Claire was the first one to recover. "Shit Marko, I can't take you anywhere, can I?" She turned back to the other woman. "At least he’s housebroken," she offered wryly.

"What?" the big man complained. "I was just wondering."

Jody finally closed her mouth. "The answer is no," she croaked.

Amanda grabbed Mark’s arm and began escorting him to the front door. She motioned to a laughing Claire, and a stunned Jody, to follow. "It’s okay, Mark. I think the question just surprised us." Amanda barely contained her own laughter as she considered just how far from the truth his question really was. "Mark, she is SO not a lesbian."

"Well all right! That’s all I wanted to know."

"You drive a bright orange Gremlin?" Amanda asked, hoping she didn’t sound too surprised. Even in the muted glow of the streetlights, its pumpkin finish shone proudly. Amanda and Jody exchanged looks of mutual disgust.

"Oh, yeah! This car is Mark’s baby," Claire informed the women. "He loves it."

"Ha ha, Claire. You know damn well, this piece of crap isn’t mine." Mark turned eyes begging to be believed on Jody and Amanda. "It’s my 17 year old nephew’s car. I didn’t want my truck to get messed with and I thought this would make a less attractive target.

"I don’t know" Claire said skeptically. "Weren’t you telling me earlier that this beauty was a classic? How much did you say you were going to offer your nephew for it?" Paybacks for Gumby…Sucker.

Mark narrowed his eyes. "You’re asking for it Claire," he threatened.

Jody and Amanda smiled at the familiar bantering as Claire and Mark went around to the driver’s side and whispered something to each other. Meanwhile, Jody and Amanda entered the passenger’s side. "Shit!" Mark cursed, as the door handle broke off in his hand. Jody was already inside so she reached across the driver’s seat and opened Mark’s door from the inside. Amanda settled in next to Claire in the back seat.

The car smelled like a mixture of beer and stinky sweat socks and… "Ewww!" Amanda crinkled her nose. "What’s that smell?" She tried to hide from the hideous combination of aromas by burying her nose in Claire’s denim jacket.

"Which one?" Claire answered disgustedly as she kicked a piece of stale pizza crust under the seat. "Jesus Mark! Couldn’t at least have found a car that wasn’t ripe?"

"Stop complaining. It was last minute, okay. I noticed you didn’t want to take your car," he shot back. "And I think the specific smell you’re referring to is Clearasil. There’s a half-squashed tub of the stuff under Jody’s seat.

"Ahhh. I thought I smelled medicine," Jody mentioned as she finally gave up trying to attach her broken seat belt.

Mark fumbled with the keys for a moment before the small car roared to life…really ROARED. "Sorry, I think the muffler has a hole in it," Mark apologized.

"There is no muffler. It fell off on the way over here." Claire happily snuggled with Amanda enjoying her musky perfume rather than the other unknown smells.

"Why didn’t you tell me?" The large man questioned. "Jimmy’s gonna be pissed!"

"Somehow I don’t think Jimmy will notice, Mark," Claire snorted. "This is officially the most revolting vehicle I have ever ridden in…or seen for that matter."

Mark laughed. "You’re right about that Claire. Sorry guys." His apology was greeted with several half-hearted grumbles.

Claire was surprised the Gremlin actually started again at Amanda’s house. But now it seemed to be even slower than when they drove to Amanda’s. Will a missing muffler do that? They were heading back to the area where the Explorer had been found and it would take an hour at this rate. "Why are we going so slow, Marko?"

"Have you seen the dashboard? Cause if you can ‘see’ it then you’re doing better than I am. There’s not even one light working up here. I have no idea how fast I’m going."

"Maybe there’s a flashlight in the glove box?" Jody speculated.

Mark smiled and nodded. "Good idea. Why don’t you check it out."

Jody grabbed the handle and pulled but nothing happened. She pulled it again. Still nothing. "This must be broken I can’t get it open."

Mark scratched his jaw. "It’s probably just stuck. Give a good yank and see what happens."

Jody shrugged and gave the handle a strong pull. On the third tug the door flew open and a large mass of small packets flew out. The bulk landed Jody’s lap, but a few others scattered throughout the car. "What the…" She jumped back not sure what to expect. Each occupant picked up a packet to examine it. Mark blushed, Jody’s eyes widened and Amanda started giggling. Claire simple tossed her packet back onto the floor and pulled Amanda closer.

"I got a super-ribbed model," Jody shared, after selecting a random packet from the pile.

"Oh yeah? Mine’s an ultra sensitive, glow in the dark, one sized fits all," Amanda countered as both women began to laugh.

"How many rubbers does one teenager need?" Claire wondered aloud.

"At least he’s thinking safety," Mark defended as he tossed down the classic Trojan. "They teach that in school, you know."

"Looks like he’s gunning for valedictorian!" Jody exclaimed, making even Claire chuckle.

After several more rounds of condom jokes Mark turned to Jody. "You said you were Amanda’s partner…" The two began a conversation about both of their careers that basically ignored the backseat passengers.

"Looks like we’re in a veritable love-nest, sweetheart," Claire whispered to Amanda as she gently kissed her cheek.

Amanda smiled at the unexpected endearment. "Umm Hmm." She agreed as she returned the kiss to Claire’s jawbone. "But I still like the backseat of your car better."

Claire growled remembering just how much fun she had picking out her new car. Lightly grasping Amanda’s chin she tilted her face up to meet hers in a soft kiss. Claire groaned and Amanda whimpered as the kiss deepened.

"Hey you two had better cool it back there," Jody interrupted in her best adolescent voice. "If one of you gets pregnant my mom won’t let me hang around with you anymore."

"If one of them gets pregnant I’m quitting my job and we’re taking the show on the road," Mark quipped to Jody as he accelerated through a yellow light. "There’s bound to be big money in that." He smiled wickedly.

"Oh yeah, I’d pay to see that," Jody agreed.

"Okay, you perverts. No getting your jollies at our expense!" Amanda protested.

"They’re calling us perverts?" Mark questioned. "Hey Claire, do you still have your tongue or did Amanda swallow it completely?" The entire car burst out laughing.

The evening had begun on a promising note. Mark had called one of his police buddies and got some decent leads on different places Monica might end up ‘crashing.’ Early on, they had even encountered several people who recognized Amanda, thinking she was Monica, and telling her how fantastic she looked. Not surprisingly, these people who hadn’t seen Monica for several years.

Eventually, the foursome ended up checking out what Mark called ‘flophouses.’ They scoured empty warehouses, decaying motels and even few decrepit private residences that were well known to law enforcement. Their occupants were mostly young people, runaways Jody guessed, and clearly addicts. But mixed in among them were a smattering of the elderly homeless and several people who appeared to be mentally challenged.

After entering the first warehouse, Claire decided she was very glad that Mark had insisted on coming along. His size alone deterred most of the unwelcome attention. But the last place was by far the worst. Although it was a house, it was filled with all types of people, some stretched out sleeping on rickety furniture on the floor, someleaning against the wall staring off into space. No one paid the newcomers any mind as they walked through the house sticking their heads into the various rooms. The stench in the rooms made the Gremlin’s interior seem like perfume. Having no success on the bottom floor the foursome carefully made their way upstairs.

The room at the end of the hall had several filthy mattresses scattered across the floor. Empty bottles, trash and syringes littered the torn stained carpet. The room's only non-rodent or insect occupants were two small boys that were practically sleeping on top of each other. The children were dirty and thin, and one little boy was wearing a single shoe.

Jody and Amanda had wanted to pick up the children right then and take them out the house. But Mark explained it would be better to allow social services to come and get the boys. That way they could see the squalid living conditions for themselves and figure out if one of the passed out people on the lower floor were the children’s mother or father.

"Oh my God!" Amanda exclaimed, her voice a little shaky as she pushed open the heavy metal door and took a deep breath of the cool night air. "That’s it. That’s the last one. I don’t want to go into anymore of these places. Thank goodness we didn’t find her here. I…"

Claire wrapped her arms around the smaller woman. "Shh. I know." She looked at Mark and Jody who both shook their heads in agreement. It was time to call it a night. "We can try again tomorrow." The lawyer smoothed the blonde hair under her chin. "Let’s go home." She took hold of Amanda’s hand and began walking to the Gremlin, Jody and Mark traveled silently several steps behind.

Before starting the car, Mark opened his cell phone and called the police. The women grimaced as he relayed what they had seen and asked that a social worker accompany the police their current location. After the very brief call, Mark clicked shut his phone and took a deep breath. "I think I could use a drink." He looked at his watched a sighed. It was almost 2:30 a.m.

"How about we head back to my house, Marko? I think we could all use a little time to wind down after tonight." Claire’s thumb stroked the back of Amanda’s hand and she received a little squeeze telling her that at least Amanda would be joining her.

"Not tonight, Claire. I’m wiped out. And I need to pick up Bobby and Keith from my mom’s in the morning."

She’s not as bad as I thought. And she does seem to really care about Amanda but…well…I still don’t have like her. Defiantly, Jody decided to address Amanda rather than Claire. "I need to be getting home too, Amanda." I can’t believe I’m going to suggest this. "Maybe you should stay at Claire’s place tonight. I don’t like the thought of you being at home alone."

Mark muttered something that echoed Jody’s statement.

"Well…" She’s growing on you, isn’t Jody? Amanda smiled knowing her friend’s stubborn resolve to dislike Claire was beginning to falter. Not that it mattered. She had no intention of being alone tonight. "What do you think Claire?"

A brilliant smile was her answer.

The foursome stood outside the Gremlin as it unevenly idled in Claire’s driveway. Claire grumpily looked underneath the rumbling beast, praying an oil leak wasn’t among its many ailments. "You guys sure you don’t wanna come in?" She motioned to her house with one hand, Amanda’s hand held firmly in her other.

"I’m sure. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Just let me know when you guys are going out again so I can come along too." The tall man looked down at Amanda who stood half a head shorter than everyone else. "Hey, Amanda do you ever miss Oz?"

Amanda narrowed her eyes as Jody and Claire tried unsuccessfully not to laugh. "Probably not as much as you miss Babe the Blue Ox," she retorted. The other women gave up their attempt to stifle their laughter as Mark bent over to kiss Amanda on the cheek. This drew a raised eyebrow from Claire, which only made him enjoy the platonic kiss that much more.

After the light peck on the cheek he whispered in her ear. "I’m sorry about your sister. Don’t worry. We’ll find her."

The blonde smiled affectionately as Mark waived goodbye to Claire and ducked into the Gremlin. "Not so fast, tough guy." She stuck her head through the open window and returned the kiss on a stubbley cheek. "Thank you, Mark," she remarked sincerely. "I wouldn’t have wanted to go into those places without you." She could see his faint blush in the moonlight and backed away, not wanting to embarrass him further.

"Good night, Amanda." Jody walked over and hugged her friend. I’ll call you tomorrow."

"Bye." Amanda looked at Jody as she climbed into the car. She wriggled her eyebrows so only her friend could see. The older therapist nodded, reluctantly conceding Mark was extremely attractive and that Amanda was right.

The car doors slammed as Claire and Amanda walked across the yard, the damp grass soaking their shoes as they made their way onto the porch. "What do you think about them?" Amanda asked as she Claire keyed in the security code.

"What do I think about who?"

Amanda rolled her eyes.

"I assume your car is at Amanda’s place, or do you want me to take you straight home?" Mark asked as he exited off the highway.

"No, it’s at Amanda’s. And thanks, I appreciate you taking me back." Jody shifted in her seat, at little nervous at being left alone with Mark.

The big man turned to Jody and smiled, the cool night air blowing his hair wildly around his face. "No problem. I was planning on going there anyway. Besides, I’m too wound up to go right to sleep. The fresh air will do me good." Think of something interesting to say! "So, why do you dislike Claire so much?" Oh that was smooth! Shit.

Jody forgot about her nervousness. "You know, you’re just as rude as she is! Have you ever heard a little thing called manners?" What is with this guy? He can’t miss the Ox. He is an Ox!

Mark’s eyebrows disappeared behind flying bangs. "RUDE! You’re the one who wouldn’t speak to Claire all night. I’d say that’s pretty damn rude." He considered stopping, but he was on a roll. "You’re acting like a spoiled brat who’s jealous because her playmate has a new friend. SO DON’T CALL ME RUDE!" The tall man tightened his grip on the steering wheel causing it to creak loudly.

"ME! You’re the one who wouldn’t let Claire get more than 10 feet away from you. She practically had to peel you of her so she could use the bathroom at that gas station." Jody was yelling. "Do all attorney’s have hero complexes or just you and Claire?"

Mark leaned across the seat and looked into Jody’s eyes. "Nope, their more brown than green. "Jealous much?"

"Smartass," she muttered, knowing he was at least in part, right. "Just take me to my car," she ground out between gritted teeth.

Uh…Oh. Now she’s pissed. I’m so suave. No wonder I’m alone. Damn, she really is nice. She must have handed out 50 business cards tonight offering free counseling. And the way she wanted to take care of those kids…

"Turn left here."

Mark slammed on the brakes as the tires screeched and the car fishtailed. The momentum sent Jody crashing into the dashboard. "Oh Christ!" Mark yelled as he retook control of the vehicle. He immediately pulled off the road and began trying to tug Jody off of the floorboards.

"Don’t touch me!" Jody slapped his hands away as she settled back into her seat with a groan. "Are you crazy? I know you’re mad at me, but you didn’t have to try to kill me!"

"Here." Mark winced and handed her a wrinkled handkerchief.. "Your nose is bleeding."

Jody warily accepted it and pressed it to her throbbing nose. "Ouch."

"I am so sorry, Jody. I’m not used to the brakes in this car. Who knew they would pick this second to decide to work? And, I’m not mad at you."

Jody looked at him expectantly.

"And I don’t want to kill you," he added hastily.

"It’s okay," she sighed. "It doesn’t hurt…MUCH."

Mark slowly pulled the car forward, looping around to turn on the street he’d missed. The rest of the ride proceeded in silence. When they finally arrived at Amanda’s house Jody was totally dejected, sore and tired.

"Thanks for the ride." She didn’t even look at the man as she reached for the door handle."

"Jody, hold on a second."

"Oh sorry." Jody realized she still had the handkerchief and tried to hand it back.

Mark waived off the bloodied cloth. "Umm. No. You can keep it. I’ve got plenty. I…um…just wanted to apologize again."

The shorthaired woman sighed tiredly. "It’s okay, I know it was just an accident." She moved for the door again, only to be stopped by a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"Do you suppose you’d give me the chance to make it up to you?"

"Make it up how?"

"How about dinner? I can cook," Mark coaxed.

"What can you cook?" Jody asked as a little of her spirit returned. "And are you sure? So far the only time we’ve spent alone together has been disastrous."

"You name it, I’ll fix it. I’m willing to live dangerously if you are! I call you tomorrow so we can set something up?" He asked hopefully.

"I’m in the book." Jody smiled cheerful and exited the deathtrap. That was worth a bloody nose!

"Your kitchen is so gorgeous, Claire. It's almost a shame that you don't cook in it more often." With a final swipe Amanda finished wiping off the kitchen table.

The search for Monica had left them tired, and after several long hours of walking up and down stairs, hungry as well. It was nearly 3:00 a.m. and they were almost finished cleaning up after a snack that had turned into a full-blown meal. To her delight, Amanda discovered that one of the few things Claire could make was French toast.

"Trust me, you don't want me cooking anything else. Besides, look how nice and clean my kitchen is. How many peoples kitchen appliances still gleam after several years of ownership?" Claire rinsed the last dish and slid it into the dishwasher. She stopped talking for several moments wondering whether she should bring up anything remotely related to Monica. "You know, Mandy, if Jody hadn’t said anything about you staying here tonight, I would have."

"Because of Monica and Chucky?" Amanda asked vaguely disappointed that the only reason Claire may want her to stay over was for her safety.

"Well…only partly." Claire looked slightly guiltily. "I was sort of hoping you’d stay over no matter what happened tonight." Seeing no response from her companion she began to panic. "I have a really nice guest room, with clean sheets and everything," she added nervously, not wanting to rush her friend.

Noticing her friend’s insecurity, Amanda quickly moved to dispel her fears. She smiled wryly. "If you hadn’t asked me, Gumby...."

Impossible. I was DEFINITELY gonna ask, Claire thought.

"I was going to ask you."

Amanda walked over to the attorney and reached up to push back bangs that needed cutting. She smiled as she traced the prominent cheekbones. "I do believe you promised to play the piano for me," Amanda reminded her.

Claire returned the affection with a gentle kiss to the psychologist's forehead.

Pulling back she smiled. "All right, I did promise, didn't I?"

Taking Amanda's hand, Claire led her into her mostly empty living room. After depositing Amanda on the couch, she padded over to a short standing Tiffany lamp and clicked it on. The lamp provided just enough light for Claire to see the keys. Sitting down on the piano bench she stretched strong fingers. "Any special requests?"

Amanda beamed and shook her head. "Not right now, play something you like."

Claire closed her eyes for a moment and then began to play a relatively short piece by Debussy. The music was slow with a lovely melodic line and Amanda sat transfixed as she watched Claire play. She was amazed not only by Claire’s obvious proficiency with the instrument but by the flowing grace the larger woman exhibited.

Watching Claire play was pure sensual enjoyment as Amanda grinned, loving every minute of it. Long fingers almost caressed the keys and the smaller woman found her eyes her lingering on Claire’s hands. Finally her attention was drawn to Claire’s face. The attorney’s demeanor was intense but open, allowing Amanda to share in what Claire was experiencing. This woman ‘feels’ the music, Amanda thought as the musician transitioned into another slightly more vibrant piece. She felt her own breathing increase at the sight. Oh yeah. I’m certainly feeling something. Amanda was delighted and more than a little attracted to the unexpected creative side Claire was so impressively displaying.

Claire’s expression changed again as she focused intently on a particularly intricate section. Amanda smiled in reflex. The way her brow furrows when she plays is beyond cute. Recognizing the end of the piece Amanda moved toward her musician. Yes…yours, her heart happily supplied.

"That was beautiful, Claire. Debussy right?" Amanda asked as stood along side the brunette.

Claire nodded pleased Amanda had recognized her selection. "Yep, the Sarabande from Pour Le Piano. Debussy’s especially relaxing," she explained. "When I want to think, I play Scarlatti or Bach because their music is so organized." Claire fingered the keys gently. "Debussy is so free flowing, and there's no set formula to it. Sometimes it takes the whole piece to find the melody." Claire shrugged. "It makes me feel free to play it."

Amanda smiled and leaned against the piano. "You can play the classical masters for me another time. Would you play something else for me?"

Claire blushed slightly embarrassed that Amanda would want to listen to her play. During her childhood Claire had considered the piano a chore. Her parents had forced her to take lessons leaving her resentful of the time they took away from her other interests. But despite herself, as she grew older, she began to enjoy playing and even tolerated the frequent recitals. She never really paid attention to those who insisted she had a real talent. Her ‘talent’ was irrelevant. She played for pleasure alone.

"Why not," she acquiesced pleased the music seemed to take Amanda’s mind off of her sister and the horrid night they’d spent searching. "Do you want to hear some New Age music? I do a mean George Winston imitation."

Amanda laughed at the raised-brow expression on Claire's face and looked at Claire sheepishly. "I'm a sucker for torch songs and ballads. Would you sing something too?"

"Mandy, this isn't exactly a smoke-filled bar, and I…"

"Aw, come on… please? You play so beautifully. I have a hunch you have a wonderful voice too."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," Claire muttered as she shook her head. I am just a big old mushball. But how can I deny her? After a moment's thought, she knew exactly what she wanted to play. Amanda continued to lean against the piano as Claire began to make music.

"Oh yeah. They don't write good ballads anymore. That's one of my favorites. But I also like Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra."

Amanda settled herself on the bench alongside Claire before leaning in and kissing her lightly on the lips. "Claire, that was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard. Thank you."

Only pulling her face a few inches away from Amanda’s, Claire brushed her finger along Amanda's up-turned lips enjoying the way the shadows played along the youthful face. "I'm glad you liked it. If there was ever a song for you, that's it."

Wrapping her hand around the back of Amanda’s neck she returned the light kiss with a passionate one. Amanda felt strong arms wrap around her, as the kiss deepened and intensified, leaving both women wanting more.

"I guess we're going to finish what we started in the car lot, huh?" Amanda whispered breathlessly as she pulled back a little but left her arms resting low around Claire’s waist.

Claire nodded and kissed her again allowing her hands to roam along Amanda's sweatshirt, finally finding their way under it to feel soft skin of her stomach. Amanda mirrored Claire’s actions as she placed both of her hands on Claire's middle, slowly caressing her through the thin cotton blouse, until she reached under the garment and rubbed her hands over the trim waist.

Claire groaned deep in her throat as she felt Amanda's hands move upward, continuing their sensuous massage. "That feels so good, Mandy…" she moaned huskily as they both took a moment to remember how to breathe.

Amanda silently pulled back and began removing Claire blouse. She smiled when she saw that the darker woman wasn’t wearing a bra…again. Green eyes, already darkened with arousal, admired the creamy, perfect breasts. "Claire…" she mumbled as she leaned forward and laid her cheek against the attorney's chest, drinking in the overwhelming sensations of softness and heat. She hugged Claire tightly and stroked the velvety skin on her back.

Closing her eyes, Claire found herself unable to speak but continued to hold Amanda close, nuzzling her hair. They continued that way for several long moments before Amanda finally moved. With a smile, she stood and slipped off her sweatshirt. Tossing it aside, she took Claire's hand and began leading her to the couch.
 

"Wait!"

Amanda stopped instantly, afraid she’d done something wrong. She looked around in confusion. "I’m sorry. I thought…"

Claire pulled her back into a hug and quickly reassured the smaller woman. "You thought exactly right, Mandy. I was just hoping we could move upstairs." Claire eyed the narrow couch ruefully. Dammit! I knew I shouldn’t have listened to that twit decorator.

Amanda followed Claire’s line of vision and shook her head in agreement. "One of us would probably roll off and get killed."

"Let’s go," Claire laughed as she grabbed Amanda and began ushering her upstairs. Amanda smiled at her friend’s obvious frustration over her slow pace. After stopping several times for tortuously languorous kisses the women finally made it into Claire’s room.

Amanda slipped her hands into the waistband of Claire's favorite jeans and much to the older woman’s delight, began slowly slipping them off, leaving soft kisses in the wake of the denim. "You are so beautiful Claire, I just…" Amanda stopped becoming a little flustered.

"It’s okay. I know and … Mandy…" She lost her train of thought as she was drawn into another deep kiss. Impatient large hands moved to unclasp Amanda's bra and couldn’t help lingering on the delicate skin they found underneath. Slowing working her hands down Amanda’s stomach and around slim hips Claire finally slid off Amanda’s jeans and lovingly stroked firm thighs. She paused there and leaned forward to deposit a light kiss.

With a sigh, Claire freed her lips from the soft skin of Amanda’s inner thighs. If I’m going to kiss every inch of this delicious body I can’t linger here…yet. Sure moist lips traveled to Amanda's throat where Claire began to smother her with the softest of kisses.

Amanda moaned, completely captured in the oral assault she knew would be her undoing. I can’t believe I’m still standing. Her legs had turned to jello long ago and she had only managed to stay upright because of the tight grip on her partner. "No hickeys, Claire…" she joked as she loosened her grip and ran her hands over Claire's muscular bottom.

Claire snorted but continued to rain kisses on her chest and breasts. "That’s NOT my style, Mandy. Well… at least not where they would show," she mumbled as she dropped to her knees and began kissing her way back down the therapist’s body. Claire was lost in the light salty taste of Amanda’s skin and the musky aroma flooding her senses.

Amanda's arched against the nearly overwhelming sensations, her hands finding their way into Claire's hair. Pushing Claire away gently, she cupped the attorney's face and tilted it up. Both women were panting, their eyes betraying a combination of lust and affection and desire. Without a word, Amanda pulled Claire onto the large bed. Sensuously crawling up Claire’s body, Amanda made her way to waiting lips and kissed her passionately. Small trembling hands caressed the length of Claire's long frame. The attorney growled deeply as she tried to gain a tighter hold Amanda’s slick moist skin.

"I'll never get enough of you…" Amanda whispered as her lips moved to heaving breasts.

"But let's give it the old college try," were the last coherent words spoken for several hours. Claire gasped as Amanda’s tongue circled her bellybutton and continued its trek downward.

Claire opened her eyes. It was all a dream. I know it was. Nothing so wonderful could have possibly happened to me. I can still feel that soft skin … A slight movement caused Claire to look down to see Amanda's red gold hair spilling onto her stomach, Amanda's left hand firmly grasping her bicep. Claire smiled and took a deep breath as she stroked Amanda's back. That was real… I am so lucky.

The attorney stretched as best as she could with Amanda molded to her. She kept her movements slow and silent, not wanting to wake her sleeping lover. She looked around her bedroom, not quite remembering how they made it to the bed. Claire was sure she would find their clothes strewn about in the living room. I’ve always wanted to wake up here with someone I really care about. I just can’t believe it finally happened. But here she was, and her heart swelled as sleepy green eyes slowly opened to greet her.

With a small groan Amanda turned her head and looked up at Claire with a sweet smile. Lifting herself up, she moved up the bed and gently laid her head on Claire's chest. "Hey, good morning," she husked, her voice still rough with sleep. She closed her arms around Claire.

"It most certainly is a good morning," Claire laughed as she planted a kiss on her forehead.

"This is the way I want to wake up every morning," Amanda mumbled as she returned Claire's kiss.

"Me too. I just thought it would never happen."

"Claire do you mean you've never slept overnight with someone after making love?" Amanda asked a little surprised by the admission.

Claire shrugged. "Anything that's happened before was just sex." Claire struggled for a moment, not really wanting to continue but sensing that Amanda wanted to know. "I…I never wanted to stay or have them stay. It made me uncomfortable and nervous."

Amanda looked down at their entwined bodies. Well, she doesn’t exactly look uncomfortable. "Are you feeling nervous now, with me here?"

Claire shook her head and held Amanda closer. "Absolutely not. I've never felt more safe or comfortable than I do with you in my arms."

"Good," Amanda sighed relieved her feelings weren’t one sided. "Because I don't know what I'd do if you were. I feel so happy, Claire. It all feels…so…so… right."

Claire murmured her agreement and reached down to grab the maroon down comforter that had slid off onto the floor. After several awkward tugs she managed to settle the fluffy spread over their naked bodies. "Lets pretend that’s not really the sun shining in my window and get a couple more hours sleep, hmm?" Claire yawned.

Amanda nodded, listening contentedly as the heartbeat below her ear slowed even further. She wanted to say more but still wasn’t sure the time was right. Soon Claire...very soon. Burrowing closer she inhaled the faint scent of roses. "Hmm. I love…" The words trailed off as she joined her lover in sleep.