~ Two Halves, One Soul ~
by Alex the Cat


Disclaimer: These characters may resemble two individuals we all know. This is an uber story, and it is the first one I have written. The characters I have created are from my own twisted mind. The use of song titles and lyrics are completely the sole property of the respectful artists.

Sexual Content: Oh, yeah, there's sex. Lots of sex. Graphic sex. If you are under 18, please read one of the other hundreds of stories more suitable for you. If it's illegal to read something like this in your state, then I would say move or hide under the covers with a good flashlight. For everyone else, enjoy.

Violence: There is some violence. It is a bit graphic but it is minor.

Language: Yep, nasty language ahead. Watch out.

Comments/Feedback would be much appreciated. (missalexg99@yahoo.com)


Two Halves, One Soul

By Alex


"I love this city. I can hardly believe that I finally made it here. Oh, god, to get away from ho-dunk nowhere's ville in Colorado. But, this, this is a city. Chicago, wow, this is great." Dani looks out of her third story apartment window onto the gray street below surrounded by it's lush green trees budding in beautifully this Spring season. Her one bedroom apartment with its small robin's egg color kitchen is not as bad as one may think now that she put a bistro adjacent to the wall horizontally by the sliding glass balcony door.

She pads her way over to the living room sofa. The cozy living room is painted in veiled light, which reflects just the slightest hint of greenish yellow when the sunlight shines through the four tall windows. She plops down and grabs the remote to turn up the volume of the piano concerto being played by Chopin on her 3 disc Panasonic stereo. She sips her vanilla soymilk from the Tweety Cartoon mug. With her legs tucked onto her right she flips through the local gay/lesbian paper laying on the small wooden coffee table. "Hmm, Outlines. Interesting name for the paper. I wonder what goes on around here." She turns the page and finds a naked muscle man staring back at her. The photo is cut off just past the tuft of pubic hair before his penis is exposed. "Whoa, talk about not leaving much of anything to the imagination." The phone rings. She picks up the cordless receiver next to the end table. "Hello."

"Hey Dani, it's Kristin. How's it going?"

"Great. I finally finished unpacking the last box of my things earlier this afternoon. I'm so grateful to have had the week available. I swear, if I started working the day I arrived, I'd be eating on the floor using paper plates for the next couple of months." Kristin's laughter echoes in her ear.

"Well, I'm glad you're all done. Let's go out and celebrate then. You haven't ventured out to one of our bars yet, have you?"

"No, I haven't. Sure, why not."

"Great. There's a place on Halsted called Girlbar. Can you meet me there in an hour?"

"Sure."

"Oh, by the way, parking is virtually non-existent on a Saturday night, you know what I mean?"

"Gotcha, I'll take a taxi. See you in an hour."

"Awesome. Bye."

"Bye." She hangs up, and finishes the last of her soymilk with a smile on her face. "Girlbar. How interesting. This should be fun."

Dani is appreciative of the new friendship she has with Kristin, and grateful that her best friend back home knew Kristin when she lived in Chicago and introduced them. Kris, as Dani likes to call her, has shown such kindness from the first day they met. Her vivaciousness for life touches everyone she meets. The auburn haired activist has updated Dani on the places to go and not to go, gay friendly establishments, activities in the city, and groups who meet regularly in a book club, softball, nature/hiking, boating, and every other event under the sun. Her androgynous nature gives off a cute quality about her. Kris' mind is like a library. It contains so much information and history on gays and lesbians throughout the centuries. Dani believes conversation could never be dull with her. And already she has received a list of must read books.

Dani pads into the kitchen, rinses her cup under the faucet and sets it inside the sink. Walking into the purple colored bedroom, she flips on the light switch. Stepping over to the closet, she ponders. "Hmm, what to wear. At least I already took my shower. Now what do I want to be saying tonight with my appearance." She pulls out a knee length black snug skirt and an emerald green silk blouse. Looking at herself in the full-length mirror with the ensemble in front of her, she says, "No, let's not say, high femme." She pulls out a pair of jeans and a polo shirt. Resuming her position in the mirror. "No. I look like a typical androgynous dyke." She then decides on a pair of black dress pants, the emerald silk blouse and her heeled black boots. "Yes, I think this'll do just fine. With some light make-up this will definitely say femme."



She got out of the taxi, and stood in front of the place. Women walking in, others are walking out. Laughing, serious, arm in arm, couples and friends. "Alright, here we go," she comments to herself. Heading straight to the bar, someone taps her on the shoulder. "Hey Kris, I'm so glad you saw me first. It's so dark in here. And this music, I can hardly hear myself."

"Don't worry about it." She responds loudly. "We'll go upstairs; it's better there. But order your drink first."

She nods and turns to the bartender. "Midori Sour please."

The bartender snickers at Dani's politeness. [Not many who use that word around here. She must be from out of town.] "Here you go sweetie," the woman says.

Dani hands over the money. "Thank you."

They head up the crude dimly lit steps. The music dies down as they enter the second level. Dani beholds two pool games occurring simultaneously, and a dart game. She follows Kris to a small round table available near the bathroom. Kris claims one of the barstools immediately. Dani seats herself in the other.

She leans over to Kris. "Why do I feel like I'm being stared at?"

"That's because you are being stared at. What else do you expect when you walk into a dyke bar. Not many femmes around this place."

"Why not?"

"Because we don't have many of them, they're all taken." Responds Kristin.

"Really?" Feeling a little self-conscious, she takes a sip of her Midori sour.

"How can you drink that? It's so sweet and sour, I feel like I'm drinking some new funky kool aid."

"Oh, but that's what I love about it," Dani laughs.

They talk about Dani's life back in Colorado, the mountains, the people, the serenity, and the boredom she lived with for years. "Yes, it's true, there is a place called Garden of the Gods. It's really beautiful. The flowers and the trees and the wildlife, it almost makes you feel like you're in the Elysian Fields, or Eden. However you want to look at it. I think the one thing I'll miss is the serenity of hiking up in the mountains and connecting with nature. Just being up on a mountaintop and looking at the vast valley below is exhilarating."



There is a tall figure at one of the pool tables watching Dani every chance she gets. The figure is playing everyone who will take her on. So far, she still holds the table. As the hour passes, the woman decides to start making her move.

"Hey," Kristin whispers, "do you know that woman at the farther pool table has been eyeballing you the whole time we've been here?"

"Which one," Dani asks curiously.

"Alright, don't be so obvious, but it's the real tall one with the jet black hair cut like that dyke singer you listen to. Oh, what's her name…?"

"You mean k.d. lang?"

"Yeah, that's it."

Dani couldn't help but turn around right away. Brilliant green met deep blue. Dani is captivated at the moment by those eyes the color of pacific island blues. She looks away. "Okay, I was caught."

"Yep, I noticed," answers Kristin.

"Damn."

The figure smiles.

"Hey, it's not so bad Dani. What's the worst that can happen? She asks you out? And what would be so bad?"

"But, I'm so new around here. I figured in a few months or so I'll start dating."

"Oh, come on," Kristin responds. "There is no time like the present."

"But…"

"Hi there." Another voice saunters in.

They both look up to see the tall mysterious stranger. The woman gives a friendly nod to Kristin. "I thought you might like another one of these since your glass is empty." She gracefully sets down a fresh Midori sour with four cherries in front of Dani.

"Thank you, that's very kind."

The woman then squats, holding on to her cue stick and looks Dani in the eyes. "Would you like to join me for a game?"

At that moment, Dani realizes how dry her throat is. "Um… I don't know how to play, I mean… in a serious manner. I've goofed around with friends, but… I'm really not a challenge. I mean… I would lose in less than a minute. You know what I mean? It's…"

"Dani, honey," Kris calls out, "stop babbling."

The stranger says, "One friendly game. I'll be happy to give you some lessons, if you're interested." The seduction of her words oozes from her lips.

She couldn't help herself. She knew she was going to give in. There was something about those eyes, almost like they're piercing her soul. "Um, sure. Kris, do you mind?"

"No, of course not. Have fun. I'm getting ready to leave anyway."



They walk back to the pool table, and cue up.

"My name is Danielle. But Dani is fine."

"I'm Jesse," she says while cueing her stick.

Not knowing what else to say, Dani responds with, "Nice to meet you, Jesse."

Jesse smiles. "Same here."

They play and laugh and Dani learns how to actually play pool. At one point, the air between them becomes thick with arousal. At the start of another game, it was Dani's turn to break. "Oh, I can't stand having to break. I'm the worst at it. I don't understand why I can't manage to hit the ball head on and with some force."

"Well, let's see your stance as you're getting ready to strike."

Jesse moves closer to Dani. "Okay, don't strike just yet. Let me help you correct your stance."

"Okay."

Jesse then takes a step behind Dani. "Alright, pose and relax."

Dani notices quickly that her rear end is touching Jesse's thighs. The dark woman leans over her placing her left forearm on the pool table. Her right hand takes hold of Dani's on the cue stick. Their bodies are touching. The reddish blonde feels her heart thumping loudly and hopes this woman doesn't feel the vibrations. Jesse's center begins to pulsate. With her mouth just a hairs breath away from the strawberry blonde's right ear, she softly says, "Bring your right foot back two steps and bend slightly at the knees." The warm breath on Dani's ear is sending electricity straight to her center. "Good, now you don't necessarily want to hit that first ball in front. Aim for either one to the left or right of it."

"Okay," Dani gulps and whispers. "I'll go for the one on the right."

"Now, when you make your move, you want to use your whole arm, like this." She gestures the arm movement for Dani while still holding onto Dani's hand on the cue stick. "Do you feel what I mean?"

Dani gulps again. She nods with an, "Mmm hmm".

Jesse pulls up and places her hands on Dani's hips. At the contact, Dani almost looses hold of the cue stick. "Alright, take your shot, and don't move your hips, just your upper back and arm."

Dani takes the shot and the balls scatter beautifully.

"Yea, I got, I got." She jumps up and down.

Jesse chuckles.



********



"Well thank you for teaching me so much about pool. This was fun."

"Would you be interested in getting something to eat?" Jesse asks. "I know a place that serves awesome chocolate malts."

"Really? That sounds yummy. Sure."

They head out of the bar. "Did you drive?" Jesse asks.

"No, came by taxi."

"Alright, we'll take my car. It's down the street."

The car alarm beeps as the lights blink on the black 2002 Nissan Pathfinder. Jesse unlocks the doors, and opens the passenger side first.

"Thank you," replies Dani.

"Sure."

She steps up into the SUV with its 32-inch chrome wheels, steel front and rear guards, and fog lights on the roof. The black leather interior smells wonderful. Jesse steps in and starts her up.

"Wow, this sure looks like it's fully loaded." Dani comments.

"It is," is the response given to her.

"May I ask why in the city?"

Jesse chuckles. "I do a lot of off-roading into Wisconsin to go fishing and camping. Out there, this comes in handy, especially when I don't want to hit any of the beautiful deer I come across at night."

"Oh, I love camping. Back home, we used to go all the time. I tried going fishing with my brothers but had an awful time because they scared me out of it. They would tear up the worms and have a bloody mess on their hands, and would want me to do the same; and when they would catch a fish, they'd throw it at me. Oh, it was terrible." She starts to snicker. The embarrassment rises to her cheeks. "Okay, that was a stupid story to tell you for a first impression."

Jesse snickers also. "I'm glad you told it. The first impression has not been ruined."



********



In the restaurant, Dani stares bright eyed at the menu. "Hmm, there are so many things to choose from."

"Hello ladies, are you ready to order?" The waitress chimes in.

Jesse looks over at Dani, she nods yes. "Please go ahead," Jesse says.

She smiles, "Okay, I would like a turkey club sandwich, no sides, and a chocolate malt."

"And what would you like," the waitress turns to Jesse.

"I'll have a mushroom burger with Swiss cheese and some mashed potatoes, and a chocolate malt."

"Okay, ladies, I'll be back with your order."

"So, where is back home?" Jesse asks.

"Oh, it's Colorado. A small town called Littleton. What about you?"

"Born and raised right here."

Dani's eyes light up. [Wow, she grew up here. I bet it was wonderful.]

"Didn't you need a car out there in the country?" the dark woman asks inquisitively.

"Oh, yes, I have a car. A Subaru Forrester. I just figured I don't need to drive it everywhere around here, when I can take a cab. I keep it in the building's parking garage. Plus, from what I've seen so far, parking is a bitch in this city."

Laughing, Jesse says, "It's not as bad as New York City." She asks, "How was it growing up in the mountains?"

"Well, the mountains themselves are great because I love the outdoors and the beauty of nature. Littleton and the people there are very boring, old-fashioned, and single-minded. That's why I had to leave. I didn't want to turn into one of them. I love the attraction and adventure of the big city. I also hope to travel to Europe. My family calls me "baa baa black sheep" because I would go against almost anything people would say."

They talk for over an hour about their childhoods.

"So, you only have two brothers?" Jesse asks.

"Yes. I'm the only girl. Lucky me, huh. Imagine the pressure I was under for years to get married and have children? Then explaining the whole gay thing was just not getting through to them. They think it's just a phase. My brothers actually don't mind it. But my parents don't believe that two people of the same sex can have a life together and make a family. How about you? Any siblings?"

[Do I tell her the truth? I feel compelled to. She's been honest and open with me.] "Um, I used to have a twin sister, but she died at age seven from meningitis."

"I'm sorry." She reaches across the table sympathetically to cover Jesse's hand. "That must've been very difficult for you."

"Um… it was. We were… inseparable." Her memory travels back to that time, and she fights to hold back the tears threatening to surface.

"How old are you? If you don't mind."

"Twenty-nine," Jesse states casually. "And you?"

"Twenty-five," she says with a smile.

The waitress comes over. "You ladies need anything else? Coffee?"

"No, thank you," Dani responds with a smile.

Jesse shakes her head in agreement, so the waitress wanders off. "I guess we should get going." She states hesitantly.

"Okay."

Jesse reaches for the check, but Dani snatches it up quickly.

"Please, let me pay for this. You've been kind enough tonight with the drinks and the pool lessons."

"Alright," Jesse states curiously. "I'll drive you home."

"Oh, no, you don't have to."

"I really don't mind. Plus it will help me sleep knowing you are safe back at your place, and not out on the streets trying to hail a cab at this god-awful hour."

"Okay, thank you," she responds with a bright smile.



In front of Dani's apartment, the Nissan is double parked with the blinkers on.

"Well, thanks again. I had a great time." Dani feels the nervousness rising into her throat.

"Would you be interested in getting together tomorrow? I can show you some of the sights."

Without even thinking, Dani says, "I would like that."

"Great. I'll pick you up at 12 noon. We can start with lunch and go from there."

"Wonderful." Dani begins to fidget with her fingers. [Hmm, what do I do know? Should I just get out of the car? Is she going to try and kiss me?]

The voice next to her brings her out of her reverie. "Here's my phone number." She hands the small business card to Dani. "Just in case something comes up."

"Okay, well let me give you my number too. Do you have a pen?"

"Yep," Jesse removes the pen attached to her visor, and also another card. "Here, write on the back of this card."

Dani begins scribbling. "There. Hmph, I think that's my number. Gosh, I'm sorry, I'm still getting used to things."

"Don't worry about it. I'm sure you have the number correct."

A moment of silence takes place. Then Jesse chimes in, "Well, then, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay." And Dani steps out of the vehicle.

As soon as she was inside the main doorway, Jesse drove away. She opens the door to her apartment, tosses the keys on the table near the door, goes straight to her room, and plops herself onto the bed. She looks around at the darkness and the moonlight peering through the window. "Wow." [This was definitely an eventful evening. I think my knees are still trembling.] "Jesse," she says aloud and giggles. [What a lovely name. She was such a…. such a…. gentleman. She didn't kiss me and I'm actually relieved. She has manners and is polite, yet very intimidating. There is something about those eyes. And the fact that she's tall and has broad shoulders, and those hands. My god, those hands are definitely larger than mine, larger than any I've seen on a woman. Staring at her fingers long and slender with her nails cut very short made me shiver throughout the night. I can't remember ever meeting such an attractive butch. But unlike any butch I've known. She has a man's haircut, not an androgen cut. And each article of clothing she had on were men's. But she doesn't look like a guy. She looks like a…. sixteen year old boy. Even with her cheekbones and jaw line being defined, she still has a hint of femininity in her face. Almost like…an effeminate boy. Oh, how wonderful. How absolutely wonderful. I could get lost in those eyes.]

She begins to remove her clothing tossing it onto the floor. She slips into her Winnie the Pooh nightshirt and crawls into bed. [Oh, I hope I have dreams of Jesse tonight.]



********



Jesse walks through the kitchen door. She enters the code on the numeric keypad and it beeps. Alarm off. [I sure miss being greeted at the door.] She goes to the answering machine to check messages.

"No messages," the robotic voice spits out.

"Good, that means no problems to worry about." She heads upstairs to the bedroom. Flipping on the switch, the room illuminates in hues of burgundy walls and French vanilla windowpanes and ceiling. She removes her clothing and throws them over the chest at the end of the king size bed. She shuts out the light, and takes a look at the clock on the nightstand. [Wow, 2:53am. No wonder I'm yawning so much.] Only wearing a white tank top and her teal FTL boxer shorts, she slips under the black comforter and wine color silk sheets.

"Danielle," she whispers into the night. [What a beautiful femme I've encountered tonight. Wavy reddish gold hair that falls down just past her shoulders. Dainty little hands with short fingernails are perfect. Sea green eyes that sparkle when the light hits them just right. Such a beautiful smile with dimples and her small nose even scrunches when she laughs. To have her rear end touch my thighs at the pool table tonight, and to be leaning over her, ugh, I just wanted to devour her right there. And I knew that my breath just a half a centimeter from her ear was driving her crazy. I could feel her tremble and the scent of her body soap was intoxicating. Hmm, I wish I could figure out what was the scent of that soap. I know I've smelled it somewhere before.] Jesse begins drifting off.



********

The phone rings. Dani springs up out of a dead sleep and grabs the receiver, from the nightstand, to make the noise stop. "Yeah, hello," she says sternly with her eyes still half shut.

"Hey, Dani, its Kris. Are you okay?"

"Yeah, yeah," she mumbles. "I'm just so tired. I can barely think straight, and I still haven't opened my eyes."

"Is Jesse there?" Kris asks innocently.

"What?!? No. Of course she isn't here." Her eyes pop open. "You think I just meet someone and bed them the same night?"

"Dani, okay, okay. I'm sorry. It was just an innocent question. I wasn't implying anything. Forgive me."

"Okay, it's alright. Sorry, didn't mean to yell like that. What's up?"

"Remember you wanted me to show you the health food store that's near you since we both need to do some shopping. We planned on it this morning."

"Oh, yeah." Dani looks at the clock on the nightstand. [9:30am. Shit. There's no time.] "Um, Kris, can we postpone it till tomorrow? I mean, are you in dire need for groceries?"

"No. I can wait."

"Thanks. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sleep in, but I came home around 2:30 and I was just exhausted, and Jesse asked me out again today. She's picking me up at noon."

"Oh, alright. You lucky dog. You see, I told you. I knew you'd have a great time. I'm glad."

"Thanks. Hey, I'll drive in tomorrow. Let's meet at the cafeteria right after work and head out to do groceries."

"That sounds good to me. Alright, have a great day with Jesse."

"Thanks. I think I will. Bye." She hangs up. Rubbing her face she calculates how much time she needs to shower and get ready and have some coffee, then she falls back on her pillow. [Okay, just 1 more hour. I better set the alarm. God forbid I'm late to my date. Hee hee.]



********



The radio turns on with U2 singing, "I still haven't found what I'm looking for". Jesse rolls over, and clutches the extra pillow to her chest. [You have a date with a certain beautiful femme today, you devil.] Jesse smiles into the pillow. She hops up. [8:30am. Alright, I have time to go to the gym, grab some breakfast, maybe, and look presentable by noon.] She turns the volume on the radio up a couple of notches, and begins removing her boxers and tank top. She walks across the spacious bedroom and tosses the clothing into the hamper. From the dresser drawer she pulls out a sportbra, black T-shirt and navy blue sweatpants. Donning the clothing and finishing up with her Nikes, she checks her backpack for a swimsuit, towel, headset, and what CD's she has thrown in there.

Once at the gym, she heads straight for the treadmill for a 30 minute run. Afterwards, it's a 30minute workout on the weights, and then to the pool. She steps into the shower wearing her black one piece Speedo to rinse off the sweat and body oil. She then dives into the pool and takes in the cool refreshing water. Resurfacing, she takes a deep breath and begins the strokes. Forty laps later, she is back in her shirt and sweats heading home. Upon entering the kitchen she decides on making coffee before showering. She takes out the bag of organic beans from the fridge and grinds them up in the grinder. Water in the coffee maker and the filter in place, she pours in the grounds and turns the machine on.

In the shower she begins to think about Dani. [The things I want to do to her. Hmm. I can just see her writhing underneath me, begging me to make her come. Then again, with her intoxicating scent, and gorgeously feminine body, I may beg her to make me come.] She laughs to herself.



********



12 noon and Dani is in front of her apartment waiting on the steps. She decided on wearing jeans today, thinking it would be appropriate for sightseeing, along with a long sleeve white blouse, and her brown Doc Marten's boots. Again she wore light make-up, and decided on her small gold teddy bear earring studs. Her small brown backpack/purse completes her ensemble.

Within a minute of her waiting outside, she sees the black Nissan pulling up. She tries to walk down the steps gracefully, praying she wouldn't trip from nervousness and break her nose. She climbs up into the SUV, and the familiar scent of leather soothes her, along with another scent. It's somewhat spicy or musky. [Hmm, what is that?] Her mind lights up. [Ah, patchouli. Hmm, I love it. God she smells so yummy.] "Hi there," she quickly says.

"Hello," Jesse responds. "Nice to see you again." [Damn, that scent of hers is like a drug. I just want to take her right here in the car. But, now, now, let's have some manners. What is it that I smell? Mint? Hmm, it's mixed with something else. Lavender. That's it. Yes. What a wonderful combination.] "So, are you hungry?" [I know I am, in more ways than one.]

"Yes, very much." [And not just for food.] "I didn't have breakfast. Sort of woke up late." Dani responds.

"Do you like vegetarian food?" Jesse asks.

"Yes."

"Great. I know a nice diner in Boystown."

Dani turns and looks at Jesse with furrowed eyebrows. "Boystown? Like in the Mickey Rooney movie?"

Jesse laughs out. "No, no, I mean the gay neighborhood nicknamed Boystown because it's predominantly gay boys."

"That's awesome. I would love to go there." She thinks for a moment. "So is there a Girlstown?"

"Yep. It's further north of here."

"Really?! That's terrific."

"We can have dinner up that way if you don't get tired of me this afternoon." Jesse states hesitantly.

"I don't think I will get tired of your company. Dinner sounds wonderful too." Dani sort of blushes, wondering if she spoke too soon.



********



At the restaurant, Jesse orders the Tofu brown rice stir-fry, and Dani decides on the veggie chili with corn bread. They talk about their jobs, and all that the city has to offer. "So, what do you do for a living?" Dani asks first.

"I'm a vet."

"Really? That's great."

"I run the clinic just west of here."

"I bet it's nice not to have to answer to the boss about being gay when you are the boss."

"What about you?" Jesse asks.

"I work as a Technical Researcher in the Breast Cancer clinic at Northwestern Hospital. I help check patients in, assist with the initial visit, provide info, and assist with all the research. I like the contact with people, and I like that I'm involved with such a powerful subject."

"Do you have to be quiet on being gay?"

"Not really, but I'm also not flamboyant about it. There are two other women in the center, a nurse and one of the front desk workers, who are lesbians. They seem nice, but we haven't really just gone ahead and say, 'hi, nice to see you're a lesbian too'." "I understand." She looks at her watch. "Well, I thought we'd start our sightseeing at the Sears Tower. Have you heard of it?"

"Yes, sounds good."

At the Sears Tower, Dani is taken back by the gorgeous view of the city. With Jesse standing right next to her, she says, "Wow, Jesse, it's incredible."

Jesse points out the various buildings and what they represent in the city.

"This is like being up on a mountain, but instead of seeing out onto a valley of trees and greenery, I see the whole city."

Afterwards, Dani finds herself up on the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier. She can hardly believe the size of this ride. Being up at the highest point, in such a small cage like box, made her scared; and it was at those points that Jesse could feel her moving closer and away from seeing what's out there. At the second time of her inching her way against the taller woman, Jesse decides on taking her hand. Dani feels a rush of relief when the warmth of Jesse's hand covers her own.

"It's okay. I won't let you fall out," Jesse states.

She smiles, "Thanks. Being up so high in such a small space can be a little intimidating." She looks into cerulean blues staring back at her. [Her eye color looks a shade darker, almost violet. I wish she would kiss me. This thick air between us is driving me crazy.]

As if Jesse could read her thoughts, she inches forward and gently presses her lips against Dani's. Lips part a bit and the exchange of warm breath is exhilarating for both of them. Tongues meet in a slow dance. Dani feels a little lightheaded.

"Okay folks, how did you enjoy your…" the voice of the conductor trails off seeing the two women in a lip lock. They break off; realizing the outside voice is talking to them until all became silent. The car opens and Jesse steps out with Dani following. The man just stands there open-mouthed. As they walk a few feet away, they glance at each other and bust out laughing.

"Did you see the look on his face?" Dani exclaims. "I wonder if he's still standing there dumbfounded."

"I didn't mean for us to get caught." Jesse states.

"Oh, it's no problem. I don't care. I think it was worth it to see that guy's reaction. Plus a big city like this has got to be more tolerant than anyone back home."

"I'm glad you're fine about it. How about some skating?" Jesse asks.

"Sounds great," she answers with a smile.

They spend their time on the rink while the sun sets into the darkening sky. Laughing, carousing, and showing off. Jesse's effort of showing off while doing a back twirl lands her flat on the ice.

"Ohmigosh, are you okay?" Dani tries to hold back the chuckling. Jesse looks up at her, smiles foolishly, and they both bust out. She takes the offered hand to help get up. They decide to head over to the sidelines.

"Well, I guess I won't be trying something that stupid again," she says still laughing at the situation.

All of a sudden a rumbling is heard. Dani looks embarrassed. "Sorry, I guess I'm hungry."

"Well then, let's go. Do you like Mediterranean?"

"I've never had it, but I'll try anything once."

"Anything?" Jesse asks with a raised eyebrow.

A sinister smile spreads across the blonde's face leaving Jesse to wonder at the possibilities of what it means.



********



"Would you like to come up for a drink?" Dani asks.

Jesse looks at her watch. "I can come up for one drink."

Dani understood the implication and appreciated it.

"My place is small but it's cozy. Come into the kitchen. Take a seat. What would you like?" Dani feels the nervousness rise into her cheeks. She looks into the fridge. "Let's see, I have some iced tea, soymilk, and water."

"I'll have some iced tea."

"Sounds good." She pulls out the pitcher, a tray of ice and 2 glasses. Drinks prepared, she places one in front of Jesse and takes a seat across from her.

"This is a nice place," Jesse begins.

"It's not much, but I love it. It's just right for me, especially since I'm the only one."

"Did you paint it?"

"Just the bedroom. I'm grateful the landlord agreed to it. I couldn't stand the melon color it originally was. It's now a soft lilac color. I like the color of the rest of the place though."

"It's smart to put this here instead of trying to manage a kitchen table." Jesse adds.

"Oh, you mean the bistro? Yeah, I'm glad I found it. It works perfectly, and allows enough room in here."

Feeling the tension and depth of arousal in the room, Jesse finishes her drink. "I better get going." They stand, and Dani takes hold of the woman's large hand.

"Thank you for a wonderful day. I had a lot of fun."

Jesse couldn't help herself. She takes a step into Dani's space, which causes the small woman to reflexively take a step back against the kitchen counter. This is exactly where Jesse wants her. She quickly hoists Dani up onto the counter as if she were a rag doll. A yelp escapes the young woman's mouth. With her hands on Dani's thighs, she leans in to kiss soft lips. Tongues entwine without hesitation. Dani groans softly into Jesse's mouth. This urges the taller woman to close what little space is left between them with her strong arms wrapping around the smaller frame before her. Dani wraps her legs around the long slender body. Jesse begins kissing the lavender mint scented jaw line, then moves down to Dani's neck. Another groan escapes the smaller woman's throat. Her hands run through jet-black hair.

Out of nowhere, Jesse gains control of herself again. "Not yet," she whispers in a hoarse voice. She opens her eyes to get lost in those emerald greens. Dani loosens her grip, a look of slight disappointment on her face. "Patience," she whispers again as she brushes her lips against the sensuous ones before her. Breaking off the kiss, she adds, "I have a surgery early in the morning that I need to be completely alert for."

"I understand," Dani responds.

Taking a step back, Jesse then assists the strawberry blonde off the counter.

Dani comments, "I can't believe how strong you are. You pick me up like I'm a sack of oranges."

Jesse chuckles, "I guess it's from all that swimming and upper body weight training."

They walk over to the front door.

"Friday night…" Jesse begins but pauses for a second, "Friday night, let me make dinner for you."

"Okay."

"I'll call you this week to give you my address." Jesse lowers her head for one more passionate kiss. "Talk to you later."

"Okay," is all Dani could say.

The door closes, and she locks it. [Fuck me. Literally. Goddamn I've never felt anything like this before. It was so primal. I better go sit down.] Dani heads for her room and throws herself down on the bed. [I'm so fucking horny now.] Pulling out the drawer from the nightstand, she brings out her favorite dildo. Quickly tearing out of her clothes, Dani lays on the bed. She plunges the red rubber inside of herself and begins rubbing her slick wet clit with her free hand. Her thoughts focus clearly on Jesse. After her orgasm, she goes for another and then another until completely satiated. [Oh, god, I want her so bad, I can hardly contain myself. I just know she will be unlike anyone else. I know it will be so hot and passionate. With the way she kisses, there's no doubt she is excellent in bed. I hope I can hold out until Friday.] She lies there letting the light perspiration dry from her body. [I better set my alarm and just go to sleep. Hmm, but I think one more orgasm is in order.] She re-inserts the dildo, fucking herself forcefully on her knees and stroking herself harder until… finally she screams and collapses on the bed. The dildo is next to the alarm and Dani is under the covers fast asleep.



********



After masturbating a few times while thinking of a certain blonde femme, Jesse rolls over. A familiar photo stares back at her. "I miss you Tommy." [I wish you were here to meet Dani. You'd like her. I'm sorry girl. Please forgive me for letting you down.] She clutches the extra pillow to her. She closes her eyes to sleep.



********



"Hi Kris."

"Hey there."

"I'm so glad we are doing groceries. I didn't realize how bare my fridge was until I was trying to offer a drink to Jesse." They enter the parking garage elevator.

Kris turns to face her. "You had Jesse up in your apartment?" The doors open at the 8th floor.

"Oh, I'm here." They step out to the car. "Yes, and nothing happened. Well, I mean we didn't have sex. But she can sure kiss. Oh, god, there was so much passion emanating from her. I had to masturbate several times after she left."

[Several times? Shit.] She clears her throat, and hops into the car. "So, are the two of you going out again?"

"Yeah, she invited me over to her place on Friday night. Said she's going to make dinner. I'm actually rather surprised. I haven't known any butches who know how to cook. And I mean really cook, you know, not make macaroni and cheese. But we'll see what happens." They exit the garage.

Kris laughs. "Take Lake Shore Drive to Belmont and we'll go west from there. It's the simplest route. So, how do you like working at the center?"

"It's been great so far. I prefer working amongst a majority of women than men. All that testosterone makes me ill but that may be due to the testosterone level being so thick back home. I wish though that those other two lesbians would be friendlier. It'd be nice to be friends with them, you know?"

"They might be concerned that you are going to 'out them'. Some people are like that in the work place. I'm sure if you have patience, they may come around."

"Yeah, that's possible."

The rest of the drive is silent until further directions are needed.

"Oh, make a right turn here. It's just past the next light. You'll want to make a left into the parking lot."

Dani is in awe as she walks into Whole Foods. "Wow, a real organic health food store. We never had anything this big or came even this close at home. You just had to know where to go to get certain things and it was a pain in the ass." Dani walks down the soap isle. [I wonder if they have the soap I like to use, or at least something similar to it.]

"Are you finding what you want?" Kris asks.

Dani picks up a bar and sniffs it. "This is it. Yes, they have it." Turning to her friend, "This is the soap I started using a couple of months ago, and I love it. Here smell it."

She takes hold of it and sniffs it gently. "Wow, this is very nice."

"It suits her perfectly." A third voice speaks. They turn around.

"Jesse! What are you doing here?" Dani asks excitedly.

"Just picking up some groceries."

"Kris, you remember Jesse."

"Yes, of course," Kris responds smiling at the tall woman.

She nods with a, "Hey."

Jesse reaches over to grab a bar of soap. "I knew that was the scent I smelled from you yesterday."

Dani gently grabs her wrist to look at the name of the bar in Jesse's hand. "Patchouli, that's what you use. I knew it."

"Yep."

"I really like it."

"I'm glad."

Dani let's her fingers linger on the hard wrist she's holding.

"I'm going to get some waffles. I'll see you two later." Kris interrupts and walks off.

Dani let's go, and clears her throat. "You shop here often?" Making a face of pure frustration, she adds, "Okay, that was stupid and corny to ask."

"It's alright. Yes, I shop here regularly. Unfortunately I can't stay though. I need to get back to the clinic to check in on a pug and attend the monthly meeting."

"Oh, okay."

"Wednesday night, would you like to meet for coffee?" Jesse takes the chance in asking.

"Sure."

"Great. Meet me at the Kopi Café in girlstown at 8pm."

"Oh, yeah, I remember, okay."



********



Friday night is finally here. Dani is very nervous. In front of the mirror still wet from her shower, she is having trouble finding something to wear. "Damn it. Everything is ugly. What am I going to do?" [Alright, calm down Danielle. You're just having dinner with a handsome butch at her place. We're not going to the Ritz-Carlton. Okay, black jeans. Hunter green blouse, and black Doc Martens high tops.] "That should do it." [And let's not forget the sexy black lace bra with matching panties.] "Yes, I'm ready."

Dinner is almost ready. Jesse sprints upstairs. Looking at the clock she is grateful for having taken a shower before preparing the meal. She throws on a pair of black jeans over her Joe Boxer smiley face shorts. Black sportbra, T-shirt, and black button down shirt left untucked. Lastly she dons her black combat boots. [Looking good Jess.] As she glances towards the mirror.

Dani steps out of the cab and takes a look at the neighborhood. [Wow, it's nice around here. All houses. Large houses. And they're not up against each other. Looks like she might have yard.] She takes a peek down the side of the house. The tall wooden fence doesn't allow her to confirm her notion of there being a yard.

The doorbell rings. Jesse flies down the stairs, and then tries to gracefully open the door.

"Hi there," Dani chimes in.

"Hey there yourself. Come inside."

"I brought a bottle of Syrah wine. I hope it goes with dinner."

"It's great." She takes the bottle from her companion. "Come into the kitchen."

Dani is amazed so far by the expansive living room area, and then by the kitchen itself. "Damn, you have a very nice place."

"Thanks," Jesse responds.

Just off of the kitchen is an alcove. The room is obviously the eating/dining area. An oak table and chairs that seats four. There is also a sideboard cabinet, and a large floor plant in the corner. The windows in the alcove area are huge. [I bet the sunlight in the morning is incredible.] The table is set and has two white candles in the middle.

"Is there anything I can do?" Dani asks.

"Yeah, how about getting the wine glasses out of the cabinet next to the fridge." Jesse suggests as she checks on the salmon in the oven.

Dani tries to look over Jesse's shoulder. "What are we having?"

Jesse closes the door quickly. Raising and waving a finger she says, "Ah, ah, ah. Patience."

"But I've been patient all week." The flirtatious banter is understood.

Jesse moves into Dani's space in one fluid motion. She encircles her arms around the young woman. In a whisper, she says, "Waiting a little longer is good for you. It makes the anticipation of the dance that much more exhilarating." A passionate kiss exchanges between them. "Now go sit down, and I'll prepare our plates."

The plate set before her contains a salmon steak, herbed garlic red potatoes, and asparagus. [This is definitely not macaroni and cheese. I like it already.] Dani thinks silently.

"I hope this is alright," Jesse indicates towards the dinner.

"Wonderful. I'm sure it will taste divine."

"Well, I wouldn't go that far until you try it and survive."

They both chuckle. Digging in, they talk lightly about their workweek.

"Wow, that was delicious." Dani states.

Jesse removes the plates to place them in the sink. "Did you save room for dessert?" She calls out from the fridge. She returns to the table with a bowl of huge strawberries and a hot pot of chocolate fondue.

"Oh my god. I knew I smelled chocolate when I came in the doorway. How wonderful."

She takes a strawberry and dips it generously in the chocolate. Taking a bite, she declares, "Hmm, how delicious."

Jesse digs in also. At the third strawberry, Dani spills chocolate on her finger. Jesse takes hold of her wrist. "Here, let me." She says in a sultry voice. She begins to lick the chocolate off, and then begins sucking on the finger. Gently at first and gradually increasing motion. Dani's eyes roll back at the exquisite tingling feeling this is giving her at her core. A moan escapes her mouth. Jesse moves onto the next finger.

"Oh, god, I want you," she whispers. That is all the confession Jesse needs from this angelic beauty. Taking Dani by the hand, she leads her upstairs into the bedroom. The room is lit with dozens of candles. Instrumental music plays softly in the background.

Dani sits on the bed. Jesse kneels between her legs. They embrace and Jesse goes for the decadent throat. Dani begins undoing the buttons on the woman's shirt. It gets tossed on the floor, and the T-shirt quickly follows with the sportbra. Jesse's medium-small breasts stand at attention. Her nipples already erect and hard are sporting silver half rings in each one. The sight of the pierced nipples makes Dani shudder yet she is keenly aroused at the same time. Dani caresses the smooth skin feeling the hard muscles beneath. Jesse removes the young woman's blouse and begins unbuttoning the jeans. Dani motions to grab her foot, but Jesse beat her to it. She begins to undo the shoelaces and pull off the offending material along with the woman's socks. She stands, and Jesse slides her pants down. They get tossed onto the rest of the pile on the floor. Dani lies back onto the bed, watching her soon to be lover. Jesse sits on the bed to remove her boots, socks and then jeans. Only in her boxers, she climbs up onto the bed next to the smaller woman. Finding the bra to already be unhooked, she removes it slowly, exposing succulent breasts. She reaches for one caressing it in her palm, then lightly pinching the nipple. It hardens quickly under her ministrations. She does the same to the other, and brings her lips onto Dani's. Their tongues dance around each other. The blonde woman arches into Jesse's hand playing with her breasts. She then feels the traces of kisses along her jaw line then down her neck. Downward the mouth goes and closes around a taut nipple.

"Oh, god Jesse."

After the second nipple receives the same attention, Jesse continues her way down, sensually licking the young woman's stomach and bellybutton. Hooking a finger on each side of the panties, she slides them down. Instinctively, Dani spreads her legs open bent at the knees. Jesse's lust was about to explode at the submissive nature of this small woman eager to please and be pleased. Kneeling between her legs, Jesse begins stroking them with feather light touches starting at the ankles and moving up to the thighs. Upon reaching Dani's curls, the young woman arches her hips forward. Jesse kisses the inside of her thighs and inches her way to her destination. Inhaling the fresh scent mixed with arousal was all she could take before kissing and licking the reddish curls.

Dani moans again. Jesse spreads the outer lips with her fingers, and sees the pearl staring back at her. She first licks the inner lips. Dani's breathing has greatly increased. She can't stop moaning and whimpering. "Oh, yeah, moan for me baby. I want to hear your pleasure." Jesse says. Then she takes the nub into her mouth sucking and licking. She plunges two fingers into the slick wet center. Dani's hips start to buck. Hands on Jesse's head, she pushes her forward. It is not long before she is over the edge.

Jesse comes back up and kisses Dani's neck and collarbone. With eyes closed still catching her breath, Dani states softly, "Fuck me Jesse. Please fuck me."

Understanding what is being asked, Jesse hops up from the bed, removes her shorts, and slips on the harness she pulls out of the top dresser drawer. Donning the cyberskin cock with a condom, she returns to the bed to see Dani writhing in ecstasy.

Caressing the small woman's flesh, Jesse whispers in her ear brushing the edges with her nose. "I bet you want to be on top."

Green eyes flutter open looking at the woman above her. [How did she know that?] She nods innocently.

Jesse smiles seductively. She sits up against the headboard and motions for Dani to sit on her lap.

Dani rolls onto her side and stares at the flesh colored cock standing erect waiting for her. She strokes Jesse's thighs, then moves her hand freely over the taller woman's body. Taking a pierced nipple into her mouth, she hears the gasp coming from above her. Her hand continues its ministrations, and she manages to get two fingers under the front of the harness and inside the slick center. She finds the extremely wet nub with her thumb. Enclosing her mouth over the hard cock, she begins rubbing the clit underneath as her fingers slide in and out. [Hmm, a mint flavored condom, how nice.]

Jesse cannot believe this is happening. The woman before her is incredible. [Oh, god, how did she know I would love this?] Guttural groans escape Jesse's mouth. She watches this angel give her a blowjob, and she feels like her mind will explode. Her body tenses suddenly, reaching its peak of excitement.

Dani sits up and straddles herself on Jesse's lap with the cock pressing against her pubic bone. She lustfully looks into violet-blue eyes and begins licking her fingers clean of Jesse's essence. "Hmm, you taste so good, I look forward to having more." Shifting a little, she mounts the cock slowly and holds still. Grunting at the fullness she feels, she encircles her arms around Jesse's neck and whispers into a tantalizing ear. "You make me so fucking wet."

Jesse strokes the luscious hips before her. She nuzzles the neck lavishing wet kisses upon it. Her hands move up to the breasts, cupping them in her palms.

Dani's hips move slowly. "Oh, yes." She states, and arches into Jesse. She begins to nibble lightly on Jesse's neck. Her ministrations then become more forceful along with her hip grinding as she reaches her climax. Laying her head on Jesse's shoulder, she pants for air.

Jesse holds Dani in a loving embrace. Within a minute she rolls Dani, and herself while still inside, onto her back. Peering down into green pools, she says in a sultry voice. "I'm not done with you yet."

Dani's arousal rises again.

Jesse crouches on her knees and with a muscled arm takes Dani by the waist to hold the bottom half of her off the bed. With her other free arm, she quickly grabs two pillows and shoves them under Dani's buttocks. [Now I have the leverage to fuck her blind.] She sensually moves her hands the length of Dani's torso sending flutters to Dani's sex. "Wrap your legs around me baby." Jesse states softly. With the order obeyed, Jesse begins grinding into Dani.

Dani has nothing to grab onto but the sheets. "Fuck, yes," she exclaims.

Jesse wraps her arm behind the young woman's back to hold her still. With the thumb of her free hand, she begins rubbing the aching nub.

With both ministrations occurring to her, Dani's heartbeat races. "Oh, Jesse, fuck. Jesse, fuck." Is all she can exclaim.

Jesse speeds up on both tasks, staying in sync until the orgasm comes screaming out. She removes the pillows and slides out of Dani. Lying down next to the smaller woman, she rests her head upon a sweaty shoulder and brings an arm around her waist.

Dani reflexively wraps her arms around her newfound lover, and closes her eyes to rest. [Wow, what a night. What a lover.]

Jesse thinks to herself. [Incredible.]

They both fall asleep.



********



About two hours later blue eyes flutter open. Jesse finds Dani perched on her shoulder with arms and legs wrapped around her. She hugs the smaller woman to her, and revels in their recent lovemaking. After a few minutes she slowly untangles herself, removes the harness and puts her shorts on. In the bathroom she washes her face and looks at her reflection in the mirror. [What is this?] Turning on the vanity light, she takes a closer look. [Well, well, I guess I'll be sporting these marks for a few days. The woman sure likes to bite.] The markings were already a reddish purple on the lower end of the neck and along the shoulder. [At least they're not higher up. I would hate to have to wear a turtleneck in spring.] Shutting off the light, she exits the bathroom, and takes another look at the red-golden haired beauty. She then heads down the stairs, into the kitchen. Thankful that the fondue pot is still warm, she dunks a strawberry. "Yum." As the thought crosses her mind as to where else she would like to be licking up the chocolate, she grabs the pot, the bowl of strawberries, and a beer from the fridge. Back upstairs, she finds Dani in her black T-shirt staring into the open dresser drawer where the cock had been pulled out from. [Oh, damn. Why did I leave that open? Here it comes; she's going to run out screaming into the night.] She sets down the items in her arms on top of the chest at the end of the bed.

Dani spins around holding a pair of leather wrist cuffs in her hands. "Hey there," she says.

"Hey," Jesse responds. She sits on the edge of the bed.

"I'm… um… sorry I was looking through your things. The drawer was just open…" she looks downward, averting her eyes from the piercing blue ones, "and I got curious. I wanted to see… I don't know."

"Come here." Jesse states firmly. [Well no running out the door at least. Maybe this'll work out.]

Dani, still holding the cuffs, obeys quickly. She sits down next to the older woman. A hand reaches up to caress her cheek. Dani closes her eyes enjoying the sensation.

Jesse then softly runs a hand through Dani's long hair. "Do the things you found terrify you?" Jesse asks in a deep low voice.

Dani hesitates a moment then shakes her head no, then says, "Well sort of…"

"Do they excite you?"

Eyes still closed, she responds, "Yes. But I'm also nervous because I don't know what a lot of them are."

She takes a swig of beer, then lifts Dani's chin to look deeply into green pools. With a soft smile, she kisses Dani. She feels the woman relax a bit. "How about you go take out what interests you the most, place them here at the foot of the bed and we can talk about it. Would you like that?"

Dani nods, and her face softens. The first things she places on the bed are the cuffs. Getting back up, she starts grabbing additional things from the drawer.

Jesse pushes herself further back onto the bed and crosses her legs, Indian style. She takes another swig of beer.

A few minutes later, the blonde sits down next to her. "Okay."

Jesse hands a chocolate covered strawberry to the young woman. [Well, I can't say she's shy about stuff.]

"Alright then. Well you sure pulled out quite a few things."

"Should I not have taken out so many?"

Jesse chuckles, "No, it's okay. Let's see what we have here. Wrist cuffs, a collar, a neuro wheel, nipple clamps, anal beads, and my personal favorite, a butt plug." She ponders for a moment, taking another swig of beer. "Would you like some?"

"Yeah, thanks." Dani drinks some of the refreshing liquid.

"Alright, the wrist cuffs are sort of self explanatory. You would obviously wear them on your wrists, and I can either lock them together, let's say behind your back or above your head; or I can use the rope in the drawer, thread it through the rings and tie you to the headboard. The cuffs can also be used for show at the right nightclub, to indicate that you're submissive and actively with someone. The collar is also good for show because that clearly says that you belong to someone and you are not to be touched. The collar can also be used to chain you to let's say the foot of the bed. It represents your submission and slavery. The neuro wheel is a device that takes affect on the nervous system. Let's say I have you bound to the bed, I would run the wheel slowly down your arms or thighs or over your breasts. They have a sharp prickly sensation. If I use them with more force, it would pierce your skin a bit drawing little drops of blood. Here, give me your hand, palm up."

Dani opens her hand, and then quickly pulls away upon feeling the needle like points.

"You see?"

She looks at her hand. Curiously, she asks, "Can we try that again?"

Jesse runs the wheel down her palm at a slower pace while gazing into those green pools, and this time Dani doesn't pull away.

"I think I like it," Dani says in a lusty voice.

She smiles into the green eyes. Next, Jesse picks up the clamps. "These are nipple clamps. Here, hold out your hand. I'm going to clip this on the flesh between your thumb and index finger."

Dani makes a face. "Whoa, um, that's intense."

Jesse unclips the clamp. "Well now you know how it would feel on your nipples." Jesse responds in a sultry voice. Clearing her throat, she continues, "Next are the anal beads. During arousal, I would insert one bead at a time until done. When you're at the height of your climax, I would pull the beads out, swiftly but not roughly, and your orgasm would be intense. Now, the butt plug gives a similar sensation, except that it stays inside. While being fucked, having a butt plug in at the same time will greatly enhance your pleasure like you would not believe. It is shaped in this fashion with a base so as to prevent you from sucking it in, and also the base helps in removing it. It takes some time getting used to having an object in your ass, but once it happens, you'll always want it." Jesse leans over and whispers sensually into her ear, "I like having one in when I'm being eaten."

Dani shudders a bit at the image those words create. She reaches for the beer in Jesse's hand. Taking a drink, she is then met with soft lips upon her own. She places the bottle on the chest, and removes Jesse's T-shirt from her body. Looking at the toys, she asks softly, "Can we use some of these?"

Jesse quickly shoots a look her way. "Are you sure? We don't need to do this now."

"I want to," she responds while looking down at her hands. "I just don't want to be bound in any way. Maybe another time I won't mind just feeling what it's like to have the cuffs and collar on."

"Okay. Scoot back and lay down." Jesse picks up the items she is going to use and places them next to Dani. She straddles Dani's hips, and bends over to plant kisses on her shoulders and neck. "When you want to stop or there is something that is too much, I want you to say the word red. Red is the only word of which I will immediately stop what I'm doing. Okay?"

"I understand."

Jesse reaches over for the fondue pot, and with her fingers she smears chocolate on Dani's breasts and bellybutton with a mischievous look in her eyes.

The woman snickers at the tickle she feels.

Jesse begins licking up the chocolate from her stomach. She then moves up to her left breast.

Dani isn't sure how much longer she can take the torture being administered to her. She writhes under the assault. Her second breast falls prey under the skillful ministrations. Jesse then applies the nipple clamps one at a time. Dani gasps through clenched teeth. Blue eyes stare into green to make sure the strawberry blonde is hanging in there. Once the chocolate is cleaned off her body, Dani feels the woman over her slide down to her wet curls. Jesse reaches up and takes hold of the nipple clamps chain. She gives a slight tug. Dani arches immediately with a moan. The sensation of Jesse's face buried deep in her cunt, and her nipples being stretched brought her over the edge quickly.

Jesse slides back up for a kiss with a hand under Dani's head. Grabbing her by her hair, she says, "Now it's time for you to suck me good."

Dani quickly complies by taking a pierced nipple in her mouth. After paying close attention to the breasts, she slides down between muscled thighs. She rubs her cheek upon the black curls, then begins nibbling on the outer lips.

Jesse grabs her at the back of the head and urges her on forward.

Without hesitation, Dani begins licking at the hard nub. Sensing her climax, Dani takes the nub into her mouth sucking hard until Jesse groans in ecstasy.

Once her breathing returns to normal, Jesse firmly states, "Roll over and get on all fours." As Dani obeys, Jesse straps on her cock once again with a new condom. She dons the butt plug with a condom also and ties off the end of it. Laying it aside she fetches a latex glove and a tube of ass lube. Upon returning to the bed, she shivers at the gorgeous sight before her. An ass and cunt standing at attention waiting for her. She kneels on the bed directly between Dani's legs. Leaning over, she caresses the smaller woman's back then reaches around to gently remove the clamps one at a time. Dani grunts at the painful feeling that brings a wave of liquid to run down her thigh. . The yelp Jesse hears brings a smile to her face. The neuro wheel is applied to the back of her thighs, causing Dani to jerk forward from the surprise. After stroking the naked skin before her further, Jesse inserts two fingers into the hot dripping sex aching for relief.

Dani begins moving her hips in a rhythm, until she receives a slap on her ass. "Ouch."

"Don't move," comes the firm voice of her predator. After a moment, Jesse re-inserts her fingers and resumes the in and out motion, and feeling around. Reaching her g-spot, Jesse feels the smaller woman tense, and hears a moan escape her throat. With her already lubed gloved hand, Jesse begins making small circles with her thumb at the opening of the anus.

"Oh, god," Dani states. She knows she can't hold out much longer on not moving. She decides on asking her tormentor. "Please, Jesse," she says softly, "please may I move?"

"Just wait," is the response, "until I say so."

Dani obeys with a whimper.

As the motion of circles gets smaller on her anus, Jesse finds that her thumb slides in. Another moan comes from the reddish blond. Jesse removes her wet fingers from Dani's sex. She hears another whimper from her prey. She lubes up the butt plug. Once ready, she removes her gloved thumb from the blonde's anus and whips off the glove. She slowly inserts the plug. A guttural groan reverberates in the room. "Are you alright?" Jesse asks.

"Yes," comes the forced response. Dani feels in her mind the object to be immense, but she doesn't want it to end.

"This will be easier when you relax." Jesse states.

As she counts to ten, she compels her muscles to relax and a new sensation floods her. The fingernails ever so lightly scratching the back of her thighs and buttocks assist in the relaxation. Then she feels her sex being filled with Jesse's cock. Her mind wants to explode as she sees stars. "OH, FUCK," she exclaims.

"Now you may move," Jesse says.

Dani impales herself over and over again onto the cock. The sensation of the cock and the plug at once is so intense for her as she becomes keenly aware of the thin wall at the back of her vagina separating the two apparatuses. And each time the cock slides in she feels Jesse's abdomen push on the butt plug. Her orgasm washes over her, and she collapses on the bed.

Jesse holds her from behind while her body spasms. Once her breathing is under control, she feels the older woman kiss her right behind her ear. "Don't think it's over." Jesse sits up with her back to the headboard, and pats her lap.

Dani straddles her. The cock slides inside once again. "Gods Jess, I'm going to lose my goddamn mind."

"I'm going to fuck you blind." Jesse cries out.

"Do it," she declares. Dani begins riding hard on the cock. With each downward thrust, she sees explosions in her mind. She holds onto Jesse by the neck.

The older woman is now doing the neck biting, and some breast biting.

"Oh, Jesse… ungh… ungh… AHHHH!"

Dani cannot remember being laid down, and the butt plug slowly removed. What she can recall is being in complete euphoria, being held tenderly and lovingly. She remembers a well-muscled, yet soft and warm body pressed up against hers. She also knows that the covers are brought up, and a gentle kiss is placed upon her eyelids.



********



It's nine-thirty in the morning. The sun shines brightly through the bedroom window. A small body still sleeps peacefully under the covers. She clutches a pillow dreaming lightly of her lover.

The blender finishes the mixed berry smoothie. Jesse pours the concoction into two tall glasses with straws. She returns to the bedroom. Taking a seat on the bed, she waits for the reddish-golden haired beauty to come out of the bathroom.

Dani splashes cool water on her face after brushing her teeth and turns off the faucet. Looking at herself in the mirror, she smiles upon seeing the bite marks. [God, that was something.] She dons the T-shirt again, and emerges.

"Good morning," she says at noticing Jesse on the bed.

"Good morning to you. How did you sleep?"

"I slept great," she responds as she takes a seat next to this incredible butch.

Jesse hands her the smoothie. "Here you go." And plants a kiss on her lips.

"Thanks." Taking a sip, "Hmm, it's so yummy. What is it?"

"Just frozen mixed berries, apple juice and a banana. I take it you like it."

"Definitely." She looks around for a minute. "Your place is big. I can't believe that bathroom. I think you can fit 3 people in that Jacuzzi. And I've noticed everything is so neat and tidy."

Jesse snickers. "Well, I have someone who does the weekly cleaning and laundry."

"Get out. Are you serious?"

"Yeah, I couldn't stand doing all this. The daily dishwashing and occasional load of laundry is enough for me. Plus, I like to spend more of my time outdoors, especially in the yard. I think I do enough yard work to make up for not cleaning house. And now with spring in season, I need to get flowers planted again back there and fertilize the lawn."

"Hmm. Could we go out into the yard?"

"Sure. Um, it's a bit cool out there, in case you want to put your pants on."



In the yard, Jesse takes a seat on the lounge chair.

Dani walks around in the grass a bit, barefoot. "Hmm the cool morning grass feels great." She notices the doghouse in the far corner next to the Oak tree. "Where's your dog?"

"She died 3 months ago," comes the solemn response.

Dani pulls another chair over and sits down next to Jesse. Grabbing her hand, she says, "I'm sorry. Was she very old?"

Jesse looks at the doghouse in order to keep her gaze away from Dani. "She was only six. She had cancer… and… I… couldn't help her."

Her heart jumps out to the still hurting woman. "Oh, Jesse. I really am sorry. I hope you don't hold yourself responsible. I'm sure she knew and I know that you did everything you could."

"Yeah, it's just hard. I got her when she was 7 weeks old. When I started my business, she came with me everyday to work."

"What was her name?"

"Tommy. I got the idea from the perfume, Tommy Girl."

"That's cute." She hesitates a moment then decides on asking, "Do you think you'll get another?"

Jesse looks at her. "Maybe."

Dani leans closer and kisses her lightly on the lips.

Jesse returns the kiss, brushing her lips on the ones before her. "Interested in having brunch?"

"Hmm, yeah."

"Alright, I'm going to shower in the bathroom down here. You can use the main bathroom upstairs if you'd like."

"I still can't believe the size of that bathroom. It's as big as the bedroom."

They walk inside to get ready.



********



"Ohmigosh, a buffet. You're going to kill me you know. Look at all this food."

Jesse grabs the plate from her. "Oh, no, if this is going to be the death of you, then we can't have this." She smiles at her. "I'd like to keep you around for a while."

"Really?" Dani moves a blond lock of hair behind her ear. "I'd like that."

"Good," Jesse says then hands the plate back to her.

Dani piles on the food. Scrambled eggs with cheese, bacon, hash browns, fresh blueberries, pineapple, raspberries, and green grapes; a bagel with cream cheese and a waffle with maple syrup. She sets her stuff down and takes a seat.

Jesse looks at the plate in wide-eyed wonder. [Woo. For a small person, she sure eats. But I like that. God, those dykes who would order salad or some appetizer then exclaim they're full. Bullshit. But not this one.] "Um, I think you forgot the oatmeal and the sausages wrapped in pancakes."

"Oh, where did they have those?" She responds sarcastically. They both laugh. "I believe I've really worked up an appetite with our…" she clears her throat, "extensive exercises last night. Not that it's a complaint, now."

Jesse's eyebrows shoot up and she scoops up a forkful of eggs.

"So, what are your plans for today?" Dani then curses herself for the statement. "I'm sorry, never mind. I didn't mean to be…. Oh, you know."

"Don't worry about it." [So, she doesn't necessarily want this date to end so quickly. Hmm, I do have plans, but maybe we can have dinner and go dancing?] "I do have a couple of errands to run today. And I also thought about stopping by the Anti-Cruelty center."

"Oh… you are thinking of another dog."

"Yeah, I'm just not sure if I'd get one now. I don't know. Depends if and when I connect with one. You know?"

"Sure. I tend to like both dogs and cats."

"Cats I have a hard time with because they don't obey."

Dani laughs, "Oh, and we know you like obedience."

Jesse catches the remark and snickers. "Anyway, if you'd like we can get together for dinner?"

"Sounds great."

"I'll pick you up at 6pm."



********



Dani enjoyed her long nap. She opens her eyes and smiles as she thinks of Jesse. [Hmm, I am so sore.] She snickers. [But I like it. What a feeling. I haven't felt this way for anyone. So, what does this mean? You can't say you're falling in love. You don't know much about her. But there is something different like some kind of connection. Is that right? Maybe it's just the awesome mind-blowing sex. No, there is something else. I just don't think I can explain it now. I hope it becomes clearer soon.] She rolls over onto her back and stretches. Three o'clock. [I better freshen up.]

The doorbell rings. She presses the intercom button. "Yes?"

"It's me," comes the seductive voice.

Smiling, she says, "Come on up." Dani opens the door.

"Hey," says the tall dark one.

She smells shower fresh with a hint of patchouli. "Oh my god, you smell scrumptious." Dani grabs her by the front of the shirt, pulls her in, and shuts the door. She pulls her down for a lustful kiss that is wholeheartedly returned.

Still in the embrace, Jesse walks her over to the couch and they fall into it. Slowly disengaging from the lip lock, they rest in each other's arms.

"I'm so sore, but I'm also horny again. I can't believe you do this to me." Dani states.

"I feel the same," is the response as Jesse looks into those sea green pools. She thinks for a moment. "I want to see you please yourself."

Dani looks at her sort of puzzled. "Are you serious?"

A slow nod is the response she gets.

A blush creeps up Dani's face. Getting up, she opens the front of her shirt and bra, then removes her jeans and panties. She sits back on the couch with her legs spread wide open and her feet up on it to brace herself. Staring at Jesse who is now sitting on the floor, she plays with her nipples and her free hand slides down to her cunt. She slides two fingers into her already wet pussy. Moving in and out she lets out a moan. Removing her glistening fingers, she begins circling her clit. She arches her back. Still looking into cerulean eyes, she groans with the excitement of her exhibitionism.

Jesse now kneels before her, and kisses her lips softly. Without using her hands to touch her, she continues the kissing, and moves down to her breasts working the nipple where Dani's hand was a second earlier.

Dani runs a hand through Jesse's hair.

Continuing further down, Jesse now takes over where the young woman's hand was stroking her clit. Jesse feels the back of her head being pushed forward. Grabbing Dani's buttocks, she holds the smaller woman firmly in place and she licks the nub in broad quick strokes until the woman screams out her orgasm.

Without resting a moment, Dani pushes Jesse back onto the floor and begins tearing off the woman's jeans and boxers. Disregarding the removal of the boots, she pulls the offending clothing as far as it would go before she buries her face into the black curls.

Jesse forces her face harder into her, and climaxes quickly. They both lay there half naked, and begin to laugh. "God, we're like Energizer Bunnies," Dani says. They laugh again.

"Well, I definitely don't mind it." Jesse chimes in.

"Oh, it's just funny. I do like it."

They hold each other for a few minutes.

Jesse takes a look at her watch. "We should probably get going to dinner."

"That's right."



"Dinner was great. Thanks. Woo, I'm full. If I keep going like this, I'm going to need to start working out twice a day." Dani exclaims.

"Well, I think dancing will take care of some of that." Jesse says. "We could go up to Girlbar for a drink and some dancing."

"Sure," Dani says with a smile.



********



At the bar.

"Do you want a Midori Sour?"

"No, I'll just have a Sam Adams."

"Okay. Two Sam Adams," she tells the bartender.

"Thanks," Dani responds.

After dancing to a few songs, they decide on a break.

Melissa Etheridge breaks out over the speakers with "I'm the Only One".

"Oh I love this song." Dani states. They head out to the dance floor once again. As she listens to the words while swaying her hips, Jesse places her hands on the smaller woman's waist. Eyes are fixated upon each other. The seductive dance gives Dani the feeling as if Jesse is actually communicating those lyrics to her.



Go on and hold her till the screaming is gone

Go one believe her when she tells you

Nothing's wrong

But I'm the only one

Who'll walk across the fire for you

I'm the only one

Who'll drown in my desire for you

It's only fear that makes you run

The demons that you're hiding from

When all your promises are gone

I'm the only one



Their dirty dancing routine continues, and Dani feels hot but not from dancing. [How weird. I swear, that look in her eyes, ----it's like she is singing the song to me. I think I need some air.]

As if her thoughts were read, Jesse declares, "Let's head upstairs for a bit. We can sit out on the balcony. Plus I need to use the bathroom."

Dani nods.

On the second level, Dani steps out onto the balcony, thankful it isn't crowded. There's a couple to her left enjoying some kisses from each other. There are three other women to the right of her carrying on about some topic in the feminist movement. She leans on the railing, looking down onto the street. [This sure has been a fascinating couple of days. I definitely didn't expect coming to a new city and start dating within a couple of weeks. Hmm, we are dating, right? This would be considered dating back home. We haven't talked about "us".] She laughs at herself. [Us. Am I saying that too soon?] In her revelry, she didn't notice someone standing next to her.

"Hello," comes the voice.

She turns her head, "Oh, hi. Sorry, I was caught up in my thoughts." Dani responds.

"Are you from around here? I haven't seen you here before," the stranger says with a slight slur.

The stinking cigarettes and beer breath hits her nostrils clearly in the night air. [Ugh, how much has she been drinking?] Dani decides to just be polite, hoping Jesse will return soon, or she'll have to excuse herself and wait on the sidewalk for her. "I'm from Colorado. I just moved here a couple of weeks ago."

"You're very pretty. You get people saying that…a lot, I bet." The woman leans on the railing to hold herself upright.

"Um, thanks. Uh, I'm waiting for someone." [Lady, I don't want to be rude. Just go away.]

"I don't see a-n-y-o-n-e," she drawls while waving her half-empty bottle of beer. "Why don't I buy you a drink, huh? What'll you have?"

"I'm fine thanks." [What is taking Jesse so long?]

"No, really, come on, let me get you a drink. Anything you want." The woman moves closer and tries to hand Dani her beer. "Here, want some of my beer? Take a sexy drink." She grabs Dani's arm.

"Get your hands off," she declares loudly catching the attention of the other bar patrons.

Jesse hears her, and through the window, she sees what's going on. Setting the cue stick on the table, she walks out to Dani. "I'm sorry for leaving you out here. Do you want to go?" she asks.

Dani looks at her with relief. "Yes."

"Hey," interrupts the intoxicated woman. "I'm talking with her. Go away."

"She's with me." Jesse states firmly.

With the alcohol having gone to her head, the woman is not thinking straight. "Get the fuck out of my face. You're just like every dyke around here. Always trying to steal what's mine."

"You must have me mistaken with someone else you knew." Jesse puts an arm around Dani. "Let's go," she says gently. They turn their backs on the drunk to walk away.

"Hey, I'm talking to you bitch," exclaims the stranger. Not getting their attention, she lunges forward grabbing Jesse by the shoulder, spins her around and smashes the bottle across her temple just above the left eye.

Dani screams.

Everyone looks, hesitant to jump into something that's not his or her business. They see this stuff all the time. Why should they help now? Just dyke drama.

Jesse gets herself up off the floor and strikes a hard punch to the woman's nose. CRUNCH!

The woman stumbles backward over a table.

In the blink of an eye, Jesse has the woman's arm locked behind her back until, …CRACK, ---- POP.

"Ooowww. FUCK! Aaahhh, my arm," she exclaims, clutching her arm and falling to the floor.

People are surrounding the trio, gawking.

One of the bartenders breaks through the group. "What the hell?"

"She's going to need to go to the hospital. Her arm is broken, and her shoulder is dislocated." Jesse states.

The crowd steps back a bit. [Damn.] Dani thinks. Turning to look at the tall woman, she exclaims,"Oh my god, Jesse, you're bleeding." She tries to take a closer look. "That cut is very nasty. C'mon, you'll need to get that stitched up."

"Hey," the bartender yells, "I'm going to call the cops."

"Go ahead," Jesse responds; "everyone here saw that I didn't start this. Tell the cops I'm going to be at Illinois Masonic."

They walk out.

"I'll drive. You just relax, okay?"

"Alright." Jesse tosses her the keys.



********



At the hospital, the attending physician says, "You're going to need six stitches. You're lucky you didn't lose an eye."

Jesse looks over at Dani and shrugs.

The smaller woman shakes her head.

Looking at the equipment around her, Jesse begins drumming her fingers softly on the plastic cushion table they have her laying on. [What's going to happen now? Is she mad because I fought back? Is she going to say, forget it, I'm outta here? I guess you didn't have to fight back. Right, like you would ever just walk away after being struck. Dad taught you better than that.] She lets out a sigh.

"Okay, here we go. I'm going to administer a topical anesthesia." His voice is gentle and soothing. Once he finishes the last stitch, he gently takes hold of Jesse's hand. "You're going to need someone to keep a watch on you tonight." He looks over at Dani. She understands. "I'm going to give you a couple of Vicodins. That should help when the anesthesia wears off. If you get a headache, take some Advil. If it persists or worsens, then you'll need to return." Standing up straight, he puts a hand on Dani's shoulder. "Keep watch over her while she sleeps. Give her a shake every two hours to wake up, just to make sure she's alert and responsive."

Dani nods.

[Oh, he's definitely gay.] Jesse thinks. [No way a straight guy would catch we're together or even be so comforting as this one.]

"Alright ladies, I'll have her discharge papers ready at the front desk. Give me a couple of minutes and you'll be ready to go."

"Thanks Doc." Jesse says.

He walks out.

Jesse sits up. "Whoa, my head feels heavy." She puts a hand up to her temple.

"You'll stay with me tonight."

"No, you don't need to do that. I got myself into this mess. I'll be fine."

"I don't want any arguing. I didn't ask you to stay. I said you are staying. Is that understood?"

Jesse looks at her surprised. "Yes, ma'am."

"Good."

"Are you angry?" Jesse decides to ask.

The puzzled look on her face shows no anger. "Why would I be angry? Because you were looking out for me? Protecting me? Caring for me?"

Jesse shrugs. "I wasn't sure if you now think of me as being violent, or out of control."

Dani takes her hands in her own. "I don't think any of that. I actually found it impressive. Who knows what she would have done next if you didn't get up and do something." She looks into those beautiful blue pools that excite her. "Thank you."

"Anytime."

"By the way, what took you so long to return from the bathroom?"

"Um… well… I ran into someone I've played pool with on many occasions and she wanted me to demonstrate a particular move."

"Mm hmm. And this demonstration…"

"Was nothing like the first night you and I played." Jesse adds quickly. "I do apologize for not returning sooner."

"Forget about it." She smiles. "Let's get you to my place to rest."



********



"Go ahead, and take your clothes off. I'll put them in the wash with some of my stuff. That way you'll have fresh clothes for the morning." She heads into the bedroom. "I'll get a T-shirt and a pair of cotton shorts for you to wear." She yells from the room. Upon returning to the living room, she stops suddenly as the tall naked form stands before her. Gulp. "Wow. Um…."

"You said, to take my clothes off." Jesse responds innocently.

"Now that I see your body in full view… it's… absolutely gorgeous and… handsome… and everything else I can't think of right at this moment."

Jesse takes a couple of steps closer. "So, you like what you see."

"Definitely," she exhales. Shaking her head to stop the sexual thoughts, she states, "But, there is to be no sex tonight. You need to rest. Here put these on, and I'll run over to the laundry room."

"Alright," Jesse says with a pout. She dons the shirt and shorts, and takes a seat on the couch.

Dani returns from down the hall. "How are you feeling?"

"My head is throbbing right now."

"I have some Advil." She enters the bathroom and removes the bottle from the medicine cabinet. In the kitchen she takes out a glass and some cold water from the fridge. She sits next to Jesse. "Here you go."

"Thanks."

"Get comfortable and lay your head on my lap while I watch a bit of the news." Dani requests.

Dani puts her feet up on the coffee table, and Jesse lays her head down facing the TV screen. She flips through the channels. They silently watch the news until Jesse's eyes become heavy. The last things she remembers are fingers ever so softly stroking her hair.

[She's so handsome. I can hardly believe what's happened tonight. Christ. But, oh, she was so brave. And she didn't want to start out fighting. Damn. She broke that stupid bitch's arm in two places and broke the nose.] She snickers. [Okay, I shouldn't find it amusing. Jesse, you are consistently surprising me. I think I'm falling hard for you.]

An hour later, Jesse feels something shaking her shoulder. "Ungh… what," she says.

"Just making sure you're alright. How's the headache?"

She slowly opens her eyes, and sits up. "It's much better but not completely gone."

"Let's get into bed. A pillow under your head for the remainder of the night is far more beneficial than my lap."

Under the covers, Jesse watches Dani undress. "You're so beautiful."

Dani spins around, "Hey, you're staring at me."

"Why not. I can't help it. You're incredibly gorgeous."

Donning her nightshirt, Dani slides under the covers and into her lover's waiting arms. A kiss falls upon her lips. "Mmm. I like that you can be so gentle but then also firm and rough at just the right times."

Jesse wriggles an eyebrow. They both laugh.

"Good night, my handsome knight."

"Good night, beautiful." [I'm her handsome knight?] A grin spreads across the dark features. [Hmm.]



********



The scent of coffee and eggs stirs the long body awake. [Mmm, I guess I better wake up.] She quietly enters the bathroom, and flips on the light. Brushing her teeth, she gazes in the mirror at the purplish blue bruise over her left eye. [Fuck, that looks like shit. And just perfect timing for this trip. Which, by the way, I need to tell her about. Damn. People are going to be badgering me about this ghastly mark.] Finishing her morning ritual, she walks into the kitchen. "Good morning."

Dani turns around. "Good morning to you," she says with a smile. "How did you sleep?"

"Wonderfully."

"Good. Take a seat, let me get you some coffee."

She sits at the bistro stool, and a steaming Tasmanian Devil mug is placed before her. Dani gives her a quick kiss on the lips before Jesse pours in some half-and-half from the small creamer pitcher and a couple of spoonfuls of sugar.

"What are you making?" Jesse asks.

"Silver dollar blueberry pancakes and omelets with mushrooms, Swiss cheese and Canadian bacon." The plate is set in front of her with a garnish of sliced strawberries.

"Damn, can I hire you as my cook?"

"You couldn't afford me." Dani begins sarcastically. "I love to cook, and I haven't had anyone to do it for. Cooking for one is not much fun." She sits across from the woman with her own plate.

"This is terrific. Where did you learn how to cook?" Jesse asks.

"My mom's a chef."

"Lucky you." [I better get this over with.] "Um, I…" She runs her fingers through her hair. "Uh… I am attending a conference this week in Michigan. I leave tomorrow morning and return on Saturday."

"Wow, a vet conference?"

"Yeah. Well… I'm wondering how you feel about you and I. You know… um, is this going to be an open relationship?" [Boy you sure don't sound suave there.]

Dani's heart sinks. [Open relationship? As in fucking whomever you find in Michigan? What do I say? Be honest and say, I don't do open relationships? What then? Will she say, okay, it's been nice fucking you, bye. Shit. I'm angry but sad too. Do I tell her to get the fuck out?]

Sensing the dark cloud over the smaller woman's head and catching glimpses of her thoughts, Jesse decides on taking the risk. [God I hope this works.] She reaches over and takes the woman's hand. "I don't want an open relationship."

Dani comes out of her thoughts. She gazes into those sparkling sapphires. She feels Jesse is being honest. "Really? Cause I feel the same. It's just your question threw me off, you know? I figured you were wanting this to be open."

"No, I just needed to know how you felt about it."

They both sigh in relief.

"Well, I'm glad that's over with." Jesse states.

"Me too." Dani looks out the sliding glass balcony door. "So…. you'll need to get back to your place to pack?" [I really want you to stay here.]

"Hmph, if you don't have plans for today, I thought we could continue our date."

Smiling, Dani says, "That would be nice." She finishes her pancakes. "Would you be interested in a walk along the beach after breakfast?"

"Sure."

They finish the meal with comfortable ease knowing this is turning out better than expected.



********



Back at the apartment, Dani says, "I'm going to take a shower. Get this sand off me."

Encircling her arms from behind the smaller woman, Jesse suggests, "How about a bath?" She leans into the ear before her, and whispers seductively, "I'll wash your back…. and everything else."

A shiver passes through the reddish blonde's body. "That would be nice." She goes to start the bath. Looking on the shelf, she chooses sensual bath salts.

Jesse enters completely naked. Taking a step up to Dani, she pulls the sweatshirt up over her head. Next the bra is unclasped and tossed to the floor. She undoes the drawstring to the sweatpants and slides them down over Dani's hips. It gets discarded onto the rest of the pile. She receives a succulent kiss from the tall woman. Breaking the kiss, Jesse steps into the tub and sits. She reaches out her hand to help guide Dani in.

Dani takes it and steps in. She sits herself down between Jesse's legs and lays back against her. They enjoy the moment of stillness between them. Jesse then grabs the bath sponge, dips it into the hot water, and brings it up over Dani's shoulder. The dripping water and Jesse's gentle ministrations make her tingle all over. "Hmm, feels good."



********



The week carried on in a slow pace. The conference, ---- just like every other conference the dark haired beauty has ever been to. Oh, not a complete waste of time. She'll get something out of it. She always does. But this time, her mind is distracted by a certain set of green eyes.

Once the 4 o'clock session was over, she sprints back to her own room. [Boy, I'm grateful everything is being held at the hotel. Saves me the agony of transportation.] The elevator stops on the seventh floor and she begins her trek down the blue-gray carpeted hallway. The soft glowing sconces lining the walls add to the quiet atmosphere. The only natural light pouring through is from the large picture window at the end of the hall. She keys in her card at the door and slips into the room. Throwing herself onto the bed, she relishes in the soft sheets and blanket. Her eyes close. Drifting off in her daydreams regarding a certain blonde who smells of lavender and mint. [I guess I'll be spending more time at the gym later to get my raging hormones under control.]

There is a knock at the door. Eyes flutter open. [Did I just hear a knock?] Knock. Knock. [Yep, I guess I did.] "Just a minute." After checking the peephole, she opens the door wide.

"Miss Chandler?" the young bellboy asks.

"Yes, that's me."

"I apologize for my disturbance. I have something for you." He hands her the envelope, then bows to leave.

[Well, that's a polite gesture. He does have charm.] "Hold on." She fishes in her pocket for some money, and hands him a five-dollar bill.

"Oh this isn't necessary," he interjects.

"Don't worry about it." And she motions to close the door.

"Thank you Miss Chandler."

She returns to the bed, lying on her back. [Now, what is this?] Ripping open the envelope and scanning the name at the bottom of the handwritten letter, she smiles. [It's from Dani. I wonder how she located me at this hotel?] She puts the letter up to her nose confirming the scent of her lover that lingers on the paper.



Dearest Jesse,

I know it's only been a couple of days, and this is probably very ridiculous of me to do, but I just wanted you to know I've been thinking about you. Crawling into my bed at night is not as much fun as crawling into your arms and sleeping on your shoulder feeling your hard naked body against my own. I enjoy feeling the heat of your skin on the palm of my hands and hear your peaceful even breaths. I can imagine now the rhythm of your beating heart against my chin. Your vibrant azure eyes captivate me, and I get lost.

I long for your touch again. Your fingers raking over my body and my flesh reacting to the electrical charge you give me. I recall your tender kisses that give me goosebumps. I feel the passion emanating from our souls.

I look forward to seeing you again.

Anxiously waiting,

Dani



"Wow." She lies there calming herself. After a few minutes she grabs the phone and dials a number.

The receiver picks up. "Hello?"

"Hi," comes the sultry voice. "I got your letter."

A grin inches it's way upon Dani's face. "I'm glad. I was wondering how many attempts the messenger service was going to make at the various hotels."

"It was very thoughtful of you. Your words have heated my flesh, and now I don't know what I'm going to do."

Dani snickers like a teenager in love. [In love?] "I wish I was there. I would cool you off, but only after I turn the heat up further." She hears the laughter in the earpiece.

"You could fly out here." It wasn't so much a question as a statement.

"Is that an invitation?" Dani whispers in a surprised voice.

"Why not. But I'm not pressuring you. It's an open offer. Just an idea." [Maybe I shouldn't have said anything. It's ludicrous to ask her to fly out here.]

"Uh huh, a very tempting idea."

Silence.

[Did I just fuck something up?] Jesse wonders. [Okay, let's not jump the gun.] "How has your week been?"

"When do your sessions end?" Dani asks disregarding the question asked of her.

[What?] "Um, at 4pm tomorrow. Why?"

"What about Friday? Do you have sessions all day?"

"No. Friday is an open day. It gives vets the time to attend group discussions, talk to the speakers, see various new techniques from the medical field, etc. It's all optional. Um, why are you asking?"

"I can come out tomorrow, early evening."

"What?" Jesse asks surprised. "I didn't…. I mean…. you don't have to come out here."

"You don't want me to?" The disappointment is evident in her voice.

Jesse runs her hand through her hair. [You have no idea.] "I think it would be great for you to come out. I just…. I'm concerned about your job."

"I'll take a personal day on Friday. It's not a big deal. Plus I'm only missing one day. I'll head straight for the airport after work tomorrow."

Jesse smiles. "Alright. It sounds great. I look forward to holding you in my arms."

Dani grins into the phone. "Oh, I plan on having you do a lot more than that."

Gulp. Jesse feels her body growing very warm. "Good, cause I'm getting tired of going to the gym to reign in my lust for you."

[Lust? She said she lusts for me?]

Beep. Beep. Beep.

"What's that? Jesse asks.

"It's call waiting. Damn it to hell. Oh, um...could you hold on a second, please?"

"Sure." Jesse lies back onto the bed thinking about her face being buried in wet golden curls.

"I'm back. Sorry about that. It was Kris. We're running some errands tonight."

"Okay. Well…"

"May I call you later?" Dani asks tentatively.

"Hmm, yes you 'may', since you asked so politely," she responds in a seductive voice.

Dani feels a rise in her libido. [Oh, I love it when you get authoritative with me.] She clears her throat. "Okay, I've got the number on the caller id. Talk to you later."

"Okay, bye."

"Bye."



********



Jesse enters her room, and she inhales the strong scent of flowers. [Ah, they delivered it. Good.] The room is bathed in roses, carnations, and orchids, irises and other mixes in various colors. She throws open the curtains of the southwest wall to welcome the sunshine through the sliding glass balcony doors. The room holds an iridescent glow. She looks at her watch. [Hmm, almost 6pm. I'm not sure what time she'll be here.]

Knock. Knock.

Taking long strides to the door, she looks through the peephole. A smile surfaces. She opens the door with a wide swing. "Hi."

The young woman finishes putting a wisp of blonde hair behind her ear. "Hi," she says with a shy smile.

Jesse takes a step back to motion for her to step inside. Dani walks in with her travel bag on wheels. The scent of flowers hits her. "Oh, Jesse, this is beautiful. Did you do this for me?"

Large strong hands come from behind to slide across her stomach to hold her tight. "Yes," comes the whisper tickling her ear.

Dani leans her head back onto the shoulder behind her and exposes her neck. Jesse leans down at the tempting sight to begin nibbling. A groan works its way out of the smaller woman. "Mmm. I…I…need to take a bath."

They face each other. Dani brings the taller woman's head down for a searing kiss.

Jesse breaks away first. "What would you like for dinner?"

"Can we get room service?"

"Sure," she responds while holding on to the woman's waist.

"Great. You order while I get in the tub. I trust your judgement."

Jesse nods and kisses her again before letting go.

Dani heads for the bathroom. [I feel giddy. I almost can't believe I actually came out here. But I'm so glad.] The tub fills. She notices bath salts and a bottle of relaxing bubble bath on the shelf. [Hmm, did she put these here? I don't recall hotels automatically having these.] Without further thought, she steps into the steaming water. There comes a knock on the door. "Come in."

Jesse saunters inside. "Dinner will be here in about forty-five minutes."

"Great." She gazes up at the tall figure, her eyes paying attention to the slight outlining of curves under the dark clothing. "Would you like to join me?" she purrs.

Smiling Jesse begins removing her black T-shirt and jeans. She steps inside the still hot liquid right behind the blonde. Dani turns around as the dark woman sits. "I want us facing each other. I would like you to wash me." She bats her eyelashes at her lover. "Would you?"

"Oh yes," comes the heated response. Jesse grabs the loofah as Dani moves closer to straddle her lap.



********

Knock. Knock. Knock.

"That must be dinner," Jesse states, grateful she got out of the tub a couple of minutes ago to put on some clothes. After looking through the peephole, she opens the door.

"Evening Miss Chandler. Here is your meal as requested." The almost balding elderly man wearing a butler's uniform pushes the cart into the room.

She looks under the silver covers to be sure everything is there. She grins at the dessert plate. [Oh, this is going to be good.]

"Is everything to your liking Miss Chandler? Is there anything else you need?"

"Everything is great. Thank you." She pushes a twenty-dollar bill into the thick wrinkled hand.

He takes a look at it. "Oh, my…thank you Miss Chandler."

"No, thank you…um." She searches for a nametag.

Noticing her looking, "James," he says kindly.

She smiles. "Thank you James. Oh and there is no need to pick up the cart tonight. Tomorrow morning is fine when the beds are done."

"Yes, I understand. You will not be disturbed for the remainder of the evening." Heading for the door, he bows towards her. "Goodnight and enjoy."

"Oh I will James. Goodnight."

The elderly man chuckles to himself knowingly.

"What was that all about?" Dani asks exiting the bathroom in a white fluffy robe. "He was treating you like royalty."

"Naw, it's just that the good vets get the best service. We've used this hotel for a couple of years to hold this conference. They just know my name." Jesse explains.

"So, you're one of the good vets, huh?" The teasing tone is audible. "Then I should make sure I give you the best service too."

Dark eyebrows wiggle playfully. Jesse takes her hand and kisses her knuckles. "Hungry?"

"Oh, yes." The thick sexual tone implied.

"We have all night. We'll start with the food on the cart first."

"So, what's for dinner?" she asks as she attempts to lift a silver cover from off the cart.

"Caesar salad, spinach and tomato fettuccine with mushrooms, alfredo sauce and garlic chicken. Chilled white wine, and Tiramisu for dessert."

Eyes as wide as saucers look in her direction. "I… was expecting turkey sandwiches or burgers."

Not understanding the statement, but thinking she made a mistake with the order, she says, "I…you…want something different? I thought this would be okay."

Dani grasps there has occurred a miscommunication between them. She grabs Jesse's hands and kisses them. "Oh, no sweetie. I mean, I'm…just shocked. This is wonderful, really. I'm wondering though...um…isn't this expensive? I mean, this hotel looks pricey enough as it is and you got all these flowers in here, I didn't want you to go through any trouble with dinner."

Jesse relaxes her shoulders. "I want to do this. I want to make you happy. I'm not trying to impress you with how much money I can spend, I just want to treat you like the goddess you are." She stares at the floor.

"Goddess, huh? I've been called a lot of things but never a goddess." She lifts the chin in front of her with a gentle touch. Green eyes meet blue. "Thank you. For everything." The statement is sincere and heartfelt. She brings the taller woman down for a passionate kiss. A growling stomach makes itself known to the couple. "I guess we better eat."



********



"God, that was good." Dani states. "I think I'm going to need to wait a bit for dessert." She leans her head back in the chair and props a leg over the arm of it. Her robe falls open, exposing the inside of her thighs and blonde curls.

Jesse notices immediately. [Flirtatious little exhibitionist.] She grins. [I wonder if she knows…. oh, she has to know what this does to me.] She licks her lips, in anticipation of what she will devour. Her legs move of their own volition, and she finds herself kneeling between Dani's legs.

The young woman's senses are alert. "See something you like?" She asks thickly as she opens the robe completely and props her other leg over the second arm of the chair. Vulnerable, and in full view of the dark haired beauty, her lower lips quiver at the touch of fingers lightly stroking her curls.

"Oh, yes." Comes the heated response. Jesse leans in for a gentle kiss. Small hands cup her face and bring her forward as tongues begin to duel. One of Jesse's hands snakes its way through wet reddish curls. Dani arches her back at the sudden touch. Breaking from the kiss Jesse takes a taut nipple into her mouth. She sucks and rolls it around between her teeth. After carefully paying attention the one breast, she then goes to the second. Her hand continues it slick teasing on the younger woman's sensitive nether region.

Dani is having trouble keeping control under the assault. Grabbing Jesse's hair, she pushes the older woman down to where she needs her the most. She feels fingers plunge inside her hot center and her hips buck. Her nub is sucked on by a mouth that knows her too well, or is it that those lips have known her forever. She pushes Jesse's face further into her. Within moments she shudders from her orgasm.

They hold each other as Jesse caresses the younger woman's back. Moving slightly back to whisper against sensuous lips, Jesse says, "Let's move to the bed."

They part while Jesse removes her boxers and t-shirt. She kneels on the bed bringing Dani up with her. Hands roam freely. A ravenous mouth assaults Dani's neck. She moans at the onslaught. Her hands wrap around Jesse's shoulders.

Long fingers find their way down once again to damp curls and slide in effortlessly. "Oh god." Dani states.

"Together baby. Let's do it together." Jesse whispers in her ear.

Understanding the request, Dani plunges two fingers into the taller woman's waiting cunt. A guttural groan escapes Jesse's mouth. She holds Dani by the waist, feeling the blonde's knees almost buckling at the exquisiteness of them possibly having a simultaneous orgasm. The pressure between Jesse's legs is building. Her mind goes blank for a moment. [Tell me what you're thinking, Dani.]

Dani feels her orgasm approaching. "Oh, fuck. God, yes." Suddenly she senses a merging, ---of hearts, minds, and souls. Not being able to think of anything precise at the moment except for the approaching explosion, she allows this presence.

[I love you Dani. I know you can hear me. You are my other half.] Both women buck wildly, filling the room with peals of pleasure.

"Ungh…ahh," Dani exclaims.

"Fuck, baby, YES!" shouts Jesse.

They collapse on each other trying to catch their breaths. Jesse gently lowers Dani and herself onto the bed. Legs and arms entwine around each other.

As Dani's mind comes back down to earth, she wonders [Was I hearing things? That voice was…was…]

[It was me, Dani.]

Dani turns her head to look at the sleepy blue eyes gazing at her. [You?]

Jesse smiles, [Yes, me. Don't be afraid. You always knew you had this gift. I think maybe that you just decided to forget about it at some point.] A small hand gently strokes her cheek as Jesse witness's watery eyes look at her questioningly. "Let's rest a moment, and I'll answer all your questions. Okay?"

Dani nods in agreement sensing exhaustion take over.

An hour later green eyes open to a dark room. She kisses the shoulder she is perched on, then gets up. In the bathroom she gazes into the mirror. "That was a dream…right?" She shakes off any further thoughts. [I think I'll go for a swim. That would be refreshing.] Rummaging through her bag, she finds the item and slips it on. She grabs a towel. At the bed, she bends over to give Jesse a quick kiss. "I'm going for a swim," she whispers. A grunt is the response she gets.

The pool water is cool. [Mmm, this feels good.] She is grateful there is no one around at this late hour. Dani swims a few laps to stretch tired muscles. As she steps out of the water, the hairs on her neck stand up, and not because of the chilly air. She looks around to notice a figure in the dark shadows reclining on one of the chaise lounge chairs. Quickly grabbing the towel, she heads for the hotel door.

"Hey baby."

She freezes. [Shit, please let this not be trouble.] She wipes her face with the towel and grabs the door handle. At that instant, a hot fat sweaty hand grabs her upper arm. She is spun around to face this dark burly figure.

"Where are you going so fast, sugar? Don't you wanna talk to me?"

The stench of rum and brandy along with sweat assault her nostrils. "Please let go of me."

"Aren't you a sweet thing. I bet you taste sweet too." The bulky figure tightens his grip on her arm. "Now, don't bother screaming or I'll have to make it look like a drowning accident. Understood?" She nods. He grabs his crotch with his free hand. "I'm itching for you to give me a blowjob."

[Oh, god. Help. Jesse, help!]



Blue eyes fly open. Realization hits of where Dani went. She quickly dons her jeans and a shirt foregoing any shoes. She bolts from the room.



"Alright, sweet thing, on your knees for daddy." She tries to pull away, and he backhands her across the face. The only way she didn't fall was the fact that he still has her arm in a vice grip. He forcibly pushes her down. Undoing his zipper, he hefts out his hard cock. "You like the way it looks? Bet you've never seen one this thick before. I want you to take it all in your mouth like a good girl." He grabs her by the hair and begins bringing her forward.

Suddenly he is knocked from his feet. Dani sees a blur of two figures wrestling on the cement. "Bitch, I'm gonna fuck your ass good." She hears him yell at his assailant.

Jesse sends a solid knee to his exposed cock. The sensitive skin gets cut on the open zipper. "OW! Fuck," he screams. He curls into the fetal position holding on to what may possibly be left of his manhood.

Dani runs inside to get the hotel personnel.

Jesse's adrenaline is on overdrive. She manages to pin the guy on his back with her knees on his shoulders as she straddles his chest. Blow after blow comes down on his face. Thinking that something horrible could have happened to the woman she loves did not ease the fury of her fists on the character below her. Four hands grab her by the shoulders, pulling her off of her prey. The man's bloodied face shows his unresponsiveness. Dani jumps into Jesse's arms. The tall woman holds her tight. After a moment, Jesse looks down into green eyes. "Did he hurt you?"

Dani answers no with the shaking of her head. But Jesse sees the smear of blood at the corner of the small woman's mouth. "He hit you?" The rage inside her insisted on taking over, and finishing the bastard off.

Dani buries her head in the tall woman's chest. "Please, don't let go of me," she pleads.

At the request, Jesse tries to reign in her rage and hold this dear angel tightly.

"How could you allow filth like that take residence in this hotel?" Jesse screams at the personnel.

The older of the two stands up and says, "We apologize Miss Chandler. We'll take care of this immediately." He pauses a second before continuing. "If you don't mind, would you please tell us what happened for when the police come."

Dani answers, "I was swimming when I noticed he was watching. I got out of the pool to leave, and that's when he assaulted me. Verbally, and physically, he only managed to bruise my arm and my lip before Jesse ran out here and started pummeling him."

"Thank you for your statement, Miss…"

"Danielle Sheridan."

"Miss Sheridan. Again, please accept our apologies."

"If you need anything further, you know what room we're in," interrupted Jesse. With her arm around Dani's shoulder, they turn to walk back inside. The journey to their room is silent. Once inside, Dani sits on the bed and begins sobbing.

Jesse sits next to her. Putting her arms around the smaller woman, she whispers assuringly, "Sweetie, I tried to get to you as fast as I could."

Sniffing, she asks, "How did you know?"

Jesse looks at her puzzled. "What do you mean?"

Dani begins wiping the tears from her face. "How did you know to come for me?"

"I heard you call me." Blue eyes stare into green eyes.

"But, I didn't outwardly call you. I couldn't scream. He said…he said he would kill me." The last of her words were only a whisper. The tears stream down her face again.

"Oh, sweetie, I heard you call me from here." She gently brushes her fingers across Dani's forehead. "And from here." She places a hand over Dani's heart. "I guess we should talk."

Looking down for a moment at the hand over her heart, she states, "Oh, my god, your hand is bloody." She grabs the hand to inspect it.

"Both of them are, but it's not my blood. I'll go wash my hands." She enters the bathroom, and flips on the switch. Looking into the mirror while scrubbing her hands, she takes a look at her stitches. She dries her hands and exits bringing a cold wet washcloth for Dani's lip.

Dani is curled up in the fetal position on the bed. The blanket is halfway wrapped around her. She is staring blankly into the room. Jesse kneels in front of her, gently moving a few strands of still damp hair from her face. She wipes the smudge of blood. "I don't want to talk right now. Please, just hold me." Dani requests.

Jesse moves to the other side of the bed. Climbing in behind Dani, she wraps her arms around the younger woman and presses the small body firmly against her own. Dani feels completely safe and protected.

After about 20 minutes, Dani feels a presence in her mind. Just waiting, not invading. She closes her eyes and focuses her energy on this presence. Willing her body to relax and take even breaths, she decides to ask, [Can you hear me?]

[Yes.] Comes the inward response. [As you can hear me.]

[So you read minds.]

[Yes. But not everyone's mind.]

[And…I'm reading your mind?]

[Not exactly at this moment. Right now we are in your mind. You felt my presence waiting for you.]

[Yes, I did.] A pause. [I was told as a little girl, that this ability was from the devil.]

[I'm sorry that happened. I've heard the same things. I would say, if it was from the devil, then you would feel the evil. Do you feel anything evil?]

[No, I feel complete peace. Like you and I have talked for centuries.]

[I know what you mean. You opened the door and let me in earlier this evening. When your mind went blank, I took the opportunity to talk to you.]

[You're the other half of my soul?]

[Yes. If you'll have me.]

[I have so many questions.]

[I'll answer everything I can.]

[I knew from the first we met that there was something drawing me to you. It was so intense and I just thought that it might be my libido, but it's more than that.]

[A chuckle. We should start talking outwardly. I believe you may develop a headache real soon.]

[This causes head…. ow, fuck that's sharp.] The presence is gone in a flash.

Jesse sits up. "Headache, right?"

"Goddamn, that's an understatement. I feel like someone just shoved a skewer through my temple." She tries to sit up. "You should've warned me it would hurt like Hades."

"I think I may have some aspirin." She rummages through a bag pulling out a large bottle. "Here you go. I'll get you some water."

"Forget the water, I'll have some wine. It'll help me relax."

Jesse's eyebrow shoots upward. She hands Dani the glass. After the medicine is consumed, Jesse climbs up behind Dani to begin a gentle massage on her temples.

The young woman's body relaxes under the ministrations. "Mmm. That feels good." She rests her hands on the jean-clad thighs on either side of her.

"Feeling better?"

"Yes, thank you." They turn to face each other. "Alright, you want to explain?"

"It's better if you're more specific." Jesse states.

"Where did you learn to read minds?"

"I didn't learn it. I had it ever since I can remember. When my sister was alive, we used to talk telepathically all the time. It frustrated my mom, but she knew our father passed the gift along to us. It's always been in his family line. I thought my sister, Jordan, and I were the only ones who could do this. When she died, it hit me really hard." She fights back the tears threatening to surface. "I didn't have anyone else to talk to anymore. That special connection was gone. My grandmother was the only one who could comfort me during the years I grieved. She assured me that one day I would find the other half of my soul. She said Jordan may have been my soul mate, but I have yet to come across the person who would help me complete myself. She said the connection that was lost with Jordan would return."

Dani looks at her, not realizing the frown that has appeared on her face.

"I'm sorry, this is a lot, and I must be overwhelming you." Jesse indicates.

"No, I…my…grandfather used to tell me a story about creation. He said people were made with two heads, four arms, four legs, and one body. He said these humans each had a soul and lived in complete joy and peace, never fearing loneliness. But the gods became jealous, and with lightning bolts they severed the humans in half. Each now having one head, two legs, two arms, but only half a soul. They were then cursed for the rest of their existence to search for the other half of that they longed for." She looks at Jesse. "I can't believe I forgot that story after so many years. And to think, I thought it was just a cute story, but now it makes sense." She ponders for a moment. "Grandpa had this gift. He used to talk to me telepathically. I always thought it was funny that he knew what I was thinking. Grandma and grandpa said they would teach me one day how to use my mind, but grandpa died when I was six years old, and my grandma so grieved for him that she died about 6 months afterwards. My mom said grandma was longing for grandpa, and went to be with him. I tried talking to my parents about my telepathy, but my father always scolded me. In his harshness, he said I was never to talk about such things of the devil again."

Jesse embraces the younger woman.

"How come I got such a headache?" Dani asks.

"Once you start practicing your ability again, you won't get the headaches. It's kind of like exercising muscles you've never used and feeling the pain of it afterwards. Also, there are some relaxation techniques I can show you to help ease the pain."

"How was I able to contact you…." She hesitates, shuddering at what could've happened if Jesse didn't arrive. "During the pool incident?"

"I'm not sure I can explain how you did it, but I can show you later how to enter someone's thoughts. I'm guessing you just willed it. You desperately needed for me to hear you, and since I was asleep my mind was blank. This provided your voice to penetrate my sleeping state."

"Hmm." Dani thinks about all that has transpired within two weeks. [God, it's only been two weeks?] "From the moment we conversed that one night at the café, I knew I loved you. It was like this warm blanket of calm that said we belong together." She believes it. All those years of going in and out of relationships and not finding some kind of connection. A sense of belonging… of eternal peace and security. Now in her arms is her other half. She cups the face that holds cerulean blue eyes. Her vision becomes blurred with tears.

Jesse's heart becomes heavy with what she sees. "Dani… why are you crying?"

She let's out a choked up chuckle. "These aren't sad tears. I'm crying because… I'm finally home." They hug each other fiercely.

"Let's get some sleep. We need the rest."

Dani nods in agreement. "I better take this off though." She gestures at the bathing suit.

Jesse removes her jeans and T-shirt, exposing her nakedness. They climb under the covers intertwining arms and legs. Dani perches her head on a strong shoulder. The tall woman kisses her tenderly on the head.

"Thank you… for saving me…. again." Dani softly says into the warm neck.

"Sure. As long as you don't make this a routine thing," Jesse responds trying to lighten the mood. She receives a swat across her hard stomach. "Oof."

"I love you my handsome knight."

"I love you too."



********



The morning sun is not visible in the dimly lit room. Two bodies are wrapped around each other. Blue eyes slowly open and look over at the clock. 10 a.m. A large hand strokes the reddish gold tresses sprawled across her shoulder. She softly brushes the wavy locks away from the sleeping face on her chest. Jesse attempts to untangle herself from the young woman.

Dani groans at the movement and doesn't loosen her grip on her lover.

"Sweetie, I need to pee." Jesse makes another attempt at freeing herself.

Dani releases her hold with a dissatisfied grunt and rolls over.



In the shower, Jesse plans out the day. After donning clean clothes, she scribbles a note to Dani.



Sweetie,

I went on an errand. I will be back very soon.

Jess



She places the note on her pillow below a red rose she grabs from one of the vases. Once ready, she wheels the cart of dishes and left over food into the hallway. Placing the Do Not Disturb sign on the door handle, she heads down the hall. The elevator doors open and she steps into the lobby.

"Good morning, Miss Chandler." The front desk clerk beams at her.

"Morning. I would like for you to arrange a car rental to drop off a vehicle by noon. A sports car."

"Of course. I will call the place we always use. Is there anything else?"

"I will leave it up to your judgement regarding any other details. Just as long as it's nice. I will only need the car for one day. Here is my credit card. I will pick it up from you when I get the keys." She fishes out the American Express Card from her front jean pocket. "I'm also going to need directions to some quaint area of town. You know, a place that has small shops, antiques, etc."

[This woman drips with authority and it so excites me. If only I could find an available woman to be submissive to.] "Anything you wish Miss Chandler. I'll get right to it."

She eyes him for a second. [I don't think I want to know what his thoughts are.] "Thank you." She says with skepticism. Jesse heads out the door and across the street for a quick light breakfast.



The young body rolls over onto the flower. [Ugh, what is poking my cheek?] Dani reluctantly opens her eyes and lifts her head to see what's on the pillow. Reading the note, she inhales the scent of the rose. She takes a look at the clock. 10:20am. [I guess I'll take a shower. Yuck, my hair reeks of chlorine.]



Jesse steps into the room and takes note the shower is on. She sets the bag and tray on the table then opens the balcony curtains. The light streams in giving the room a warm cozy feel. She takes a seat and swallows some coffee. [Mmm, nothing beats good coffee.]

Dani enters. "Oh, you brought Dunkin Donuts," she says excitedly.

I got us bagels with the coffee." She hands Dani a warm wrapped up bagel.

"Mmm, blueberry. Thank you so much." She says with a smile.

"I rented a car for today. I thought we could see some of the sights. With the years I've been coming out here, I have yet to take a look around." She takes another bite of her breakfast.

"What about the open group discussions today? Aren't you going to attend any of them? I don't want to keep you from doing that."

"I already looked at the schedule. There isn't anything that I haven't already heard or seen. Plus, with you here, I definitely want us to do something exciting." An eyebrow arches up her forehead.

Dani smirks. "Oh, I can't imagine anything with you not being exciting." Eating the last bite of the bagel, she asks, "When do we leave?"

Jesse looks at her watch. "I'd say about an hour, the car should be here and we can go."



********



The silver 2002 Toyota Celica hugs the curves on the winding road. The sun shines brightly overhead in the clear blue sky. They enter a rustic town.

"This must be the place. At least according to these directions." Jesse looks at the piece of paper with the scribbled notes on it. "The clerk said there would be an antique show today in the park."

"The town reminds me of a place back in Colorado."

"I'll park here, and we'll start walking."



They enjoy the warm breeze and all the interesting sights. After a couple of hours of wandering, a rumbling is heard.

A dark eyebrow arches up. Crystal blue eyes look into bright green.

"Sorry, I guess my stomach is trying to say something."

Jesse smiles. "Well, let's quell your stomach's rumblings." They walk into the next restaurant they spot.



"Oh, I feel much better now that I'm full." Dani says as they walk out. "Do you think we can head back to the hotel?"

"Sure. Are you feeling okay?" Jesse asks.

Interlocking her fingers with the long slender ones, she stops and faces her lover. "I'm feeling great," she says with a purr. Green eyes are noticeably darker.

Jesse gulps. "You're such a…." Her keen hearing picks up on something. Tilting her head to the side, a scowl reaches her face.

"Jess, what is it?" she asks confused. Dani wonders what the tall woman could possibly be doing.

"Did you hear that?" Without letting go of her hand, Jesse walks towards the alleyway. Reaching a dumpster, she listens again.

"Jesse?"

She lifts the cover and peers inside. A fur ball greets her with a faint whimper of fear. "Dani hold the lid, please."

Doing so, she looks inside also. "Oh my god, it's a puppy." She watches Jesse gently pick up the little thing. "Oh, no, there's another one."

Jesse holds onto the first one, and reaches in for the other. Immediately she knew the second one didn't make it. Its limp and slightly cooler body in her large hand already gave her the answer she suspected.

Dani closes the lid, and Jesse sets the second one on top of it.

"That one didn't make it." She looks into teary green eyes staring at the dead puppy. "Sweetie, would you please go back to the restaurant and see if they'll give you a bag? We can't leave it here… for the rats." The last three words come out under her breath.

She nods and wipes away an errant tear as she walks back to the restaurant.

Jesse cradles the live puppy. "Hey there," she says softly. "We'll get you some help, okay?" She hears the whimpering. "Okay buddy, I know you're scared, but you'll be alright. I promise."

The younger woman comes jogging back. "I got it." She holds it open. "I… I… can't… I need your help." The tears threaten her eyes again.

"It's okay, sweetie." Jesse takes the dead puppy and places it in the bag.

"What are we going to do?"

"We're going to the clinic."

"But… is there a place open now?"

"I'm going to call in a favor of a friend." She smiles at the young woman. "Come on, let's get going."



********



The lights of the clinic are all turned on while Jesse and Dani stand in the front waiting area. Dani now cradles the puppy that is currently wrapped in Jesse's button down shirt.

"It's a good thing you always wear a T-shirt under your shirts."

"What's wrong? You don't want to see me in my sport bra?" Jesse asks with a lopsided grin.

"No, I just don't want everyone else seeing you in your sport bra."

A deep low chuckle interrupts them. "Alright, Jessica, we can go into the first room here." The elderly man smirks and points down the hall.

"Thanks Jack. I really appreciate this." She says with a smile.

"As always Jessica, anything for you."

Jack is a fifty-four year old veterinarian who's known Jessica ever since she was a teenager and showed interest in working with animals.

Dani places the puppy on the table.

"Jessica, I presume you would like to do the honors?"

"Yes, thank you."

"How do you know Jesse?" Dani asks with enthusiasm.

The old vet pushes up his wire rim glasses and runs his hand through thick white hair. He looks down at the shorter woman with a glint in his hazel eyes. "Well, now, back when I lived in Chicago she used to volunteer at my clinic and then I hired her. She worked like no one else there. Grant it, her first job was cleaning up after accidents and hosing down cages. But she was a determined little spirit. The fire still shows in those baby blue eyes when she tends to an animal in any fashion."

"Jack showed me everything I know today." Chimes in Jesse.

He chuckles. "Now, I wouldn't say everything. That brain of yours is like a sponge. Always soaking up the knowledge and never forgetting it." He looks back at Dani. "She was a straight A student, you know."

"Jack…" she growls at the old man.

"Hush now. There is nothing wrong for an old man to talk about his protégé and how proud I am of her."

A blush creeps along her cheeks.

"I bet you thought you were the only one who could make her blush, huh?" he indicates to Dani.

The young woman now sports a blush her own.

He lets out a hearty laugh in his six-foot football player size frame. "How's it going with the pup?"

"Just fine. She doesn't have any broken bones or any other evident ailments. I've given her an antibiotic shot just to be on the safe side. She's weak, but that's most likely because she hasn't eaten. I'll need to get her some formula."

"I believe I still have a couple of cans left behind the counter. I'll go check." On his way out, he picks up the paper bag sitting on the chair. Looking back he says, "I'll take care of this too."

"Thanks." They both say.

Dani moves closer to the table. "Is she going to be okay?"

The older woman straightens up to look down into her lover's worried eyes. "Yes."

"How could people do this?" she asks almost theoretically.

"It happens all the time. In our society today, people are tossing out their own babies like trash. What's going to make them have second thoughts about animals?"

"I'm so glad you found her."

Jesse brushes the back of her knuckles gently on the blonde's cheek. "I'm going to keep her."

Realization hits Dani. "Really? That's wonderful. I'm so glad."

"Good. Maybe you can help me nurse her back to health?"

"I'd love to." She hugs the taller woman. "What kind of dog is she? How old is she? What are you going to name her?"

"Whoa, whoa. Hold on." Jesse says while laughing. "She's a five week old Shepherd, and I'd like to name her Artemis, because she is a little warrior to be able to survive her brother."

"Artemis. I like it. A lot."

"Well here we go. I did find three cans of formula, and I even have a feeding bottle you can take with you."

"Thank you so much Jack." She wraps the puppy in her shirt once again. "I guess we better get going and let you get back to your family."

"No problem. I'm glad I could help. You two have a good night." He waves at the doorway as they walk out.



********



"I'll get the formula started. I'm sure Arty is starving. Would you mind holding her?" Jesse asks.

"Sure, I'll take her." She cradles the puppy in her arms.

"I'll be back in a few minutes. I need to get the kitchen staff to open this can and warm it up." She heads out.

"Okay." Dani takes a seat on the bed and flips on the TV. "You wanna see what's on?" She whispers to the pup. "Maybe there's something good on Animal Planet." The pup snuggles closer against her chest. Looking down she says, "You know, you're a very lucky girl. You're going to have a great life with Jesse. You're going to have your very own yard to run around in, and even your own doghouse. You're going to receive the best of care. Of course you need to do your part by being a good companion and protecting her. Jesse is a great vet, and she seems to love you very much."

"I love you very much too." Jesse closes the door behind her.

Dani smiles. "I didn't hear you come in. Were you listening to my conversation with Artemis?"

A dark eyebrow arches upward. "I didn't realize it was a private conversation. Should I come back later?" She asks teasingly.

"No. Here, I'll let you feed her. It will help create a stronger bond between you two, won't it?"

"Yeah, thanks. The chef gave me a couple of egg salad sandwiches for us. I told her about our little adventure here, and she figured we'd be rather busy with this new bundle."

"Great, cause I'm hungry." She looks over at the puppy drinking. "Boy, she sure is sucking that formula down."

Jesse smiles. "That's a good thing. Her appetite hasn't been affected. I was concerned I would have trouble getting her to eat."

"Do you mind if I start eating?"

"No, go ahead." She looks down at the pup and the now empty bottle in her hand. The little bluish gray eyes are slowly closing. "Looks like this little girl is going to sleep," she whispers to Dani.

The younger woman smiles happily at the content pup. Jesse grabs one of the extra pillows from the bed and places it on the floor. Laying Artemis down, still wrapped in her shirt, she then joins Dani at the table.

"Hmm, this sandwich is good." Jesse's tongue snakes out to wipe the dab of sauce at the corner of her mouth.

Dani watches, feeling a pull in her nether regions. [Gods, even watching her eat a simple sandwich gets me aroused.]

Jesse shoots her a questioning look, wondering if she heard something, as she takes the last bite of her sandwich.

The younger woman stands and grabs hold of Jesse by her shirt, pulling her up to stand also. "I want to touch you," Dani says as she runs her right hand down Jesse's neck and places it upon her heart. "I want you to kiss me." She leans forward, placing her lips upon the soft ones before her.

Their lips meet instantly as hungry tongues connect with each other passionately. Dani runs her hands through her lover's hair. She feels a deep groan rumble through the dark woman's chest. Grabbing at the young woman's clothing she says in a growl, "Take these off, now."

Without hesitation Dani obeys quickly, tearing at her garments as if they were on fire while Jesse does the same. Lying on the bed, she sighs with relief as soft hands come in contact with the bare skin of her lower abdomen. They trace circular patterns on the flesh, making her ache for more. Dani reaches for her lover and moves her mouth over sensuous breasts, letting her hot breath caress them as she keeps her mouth poised over expectant nipples. Jesse moans and slightly arches her back. Dani presses her face into the natural valley in front of her before sliding up until they are nose to nose. She moans into her lover's mouth as her hands move against her back, tugging at her shoulders. She captures Jesse's tongue, suckling softly, only increasing the pressure when her lover groans.

Jesse's control starts to slip and she reaches up to grasp Dani's head in her hands, pressing her thigh between those strong legs to force them apart. With a strong push of her hips she urges Dani onto her back, and she goes willingly. Her hands slowly slip down to Dani's breasts where she manipulates the mounds of flesh languidly.

Dani groans, pushing her breasts further into the dark woman's hands. Hearing Dani's passionate groan sends a responding pulse of wanton desire through Jesse's core and she fights the urge to abandon her slow path of seduction. She circles the rapidly firming nipple with her middle finger before rolling it around her thumb and forefinger. Jesse lowers her head to the breast and caresses Dani's nipple with her tongue.

"Oh, god, Jesse." Dani cries out, pushing into her lover's mouth. She grasps the back of Jesse's head and begs, "Please Jesse…gods I need you." Her hips begin a slow rhythm as she moves against the woman above her.

Jesse slides her way down the small body. Starting at her inner thigh, Jesse alternately licks, bites, and sucks her way down Dani's thighs making the smaller woman almost insane with desire. The young blonde grabs Jesse's hair and forces her head along it's journey to where she needs her the most. Not wanting to give in too easily, Jesse hovers over the slick wet lips.

"Please, Jesse," she groans helplessly.

"Please what."

"I… need…your tongue. I want… you… inside me."

"Here?" she asks as her hand slips between Dani's nether lips.

The blonde's eyes close at Jesse's direct and stimulating touch. She moans, unable to speak further as Jesse's two fingers plunge through her swollen desire.

Jesse's tongue traces a light pattern on her sex, and she presses her hips into the caress, offering herself up. She bathes Dani's clit and a guttural groan is wrenched from the young woman. Unable to resist, Dani starts to rock against her lover's face. Jesse feels the inner walls grip her fingers as she adds a third and takes the swollen nub into her mouth. "Oh, fuck… gods Jesse. Fuck." Her orgasm crashes over her.

Jesse crawls back up the young woman's body without removing her fingers from Dani's sex. They kiss passionately, and Dani tastes herself on Jesse's lips. The older woman begins fucking Dani with her fingers and Dani moans loudly into her mouth. A second wave of orgasm quickly captures her.

Not wanting to wait, Dani rolls the both of them over. She trails her lips down the older woman's throat and chest until she reaches firm breasts. She takes a nipple into her mouth feeling it swell as she hears Jesse groan. Dani then lowers herself further until she is looking straight at an aching nub. Using her thumbs to spread Jesse open, she dives forward, her tongue slipping directly into Jesse's hot center.

Jesse hums in delight, running blond locks of hair through her fingers. "Oh, yes… fuck…it's… so good. She squeezes her eyes tightly closed, moving against the young woman's tongue. A short moment later, Dani grabs the clit between her teeth and plunges two fingers into Jesse's hot dripping sex. She sucks firmly on the clit.

"Ah… ah… ungh!" Jesse struggles for breath as her body topples over into a climax and she thrusts wildly against Dani's mouth. She surrenders to the wave of release as she whimpers and groans out Dani's name.

Dani holds onto the bucking woman, milking her pleasure and sustaining it for as long as possible. She climbs up the long body and kisses the other half of her soul tenderly. "I love you Jesse." She whispers into a delectable ear. She lowers her head and rests against Jesse's shoulder, holding her fiercely.

"I love you too baby girl." She looks over the side of the bed for a moment to take a peek at Artemis. "I'm surprised with all the noise, she hasn't woken up making a fuss."

Dani chuckles. "I guess we should follow suit. How about sleeping?"

"Sounds great."

********



A whimpering is clearly heard by Jesse. Opening her eyes, she looks at Artemis. The puppy's head is sticking out as if searching for something. "Uh, oh," Jesse says in a hoarse voice, "I bet I know what you want." She untangles herself from Dani. Quickly throwing on her jeans and a T-shirt, she picks up Artemis with the shirt. "Okay buddy, just don't do it on me." They head out.

"I must say I'm shocked you actually waited until I got you in the grass." She watches the puppy take wobbly steps on small legs. "You know, I'm even shocked that you decided to inform me you needed to go. If this keeps up, I think we're going to have a great relationship." She squats, wondering if Artemis understands who she is. "Arty? Artemis?" The puppy turns her head towards the voice. "Hey girl, do you know your name?" The puppy paws the ground playfully a couple of times and bows her head. "A-r-t-e-m-i-s," Jesse draws out the word sweetly. Artemis hops over to what she knows to be her mother. Jesse scoops her up. "You're such a good girl." She tickles a furry tummy then lightly scratches under the fuzzy chin.

She closes the door behind her.

"Where did you go?" asks a sleepy voice from under the covers.

"Artemis had to go out." She puts the bundle back on the pillow.

"She told you she had to go?"

"I know it's hard to believe, but I woke up to her whimpering and sniffing around." She removes her clothes and crawls back into bed. She spoons herself behind the shorter woman.

"What time is it?" Dani asks with a yawn.

Looking over her shoulder at the clock, Jesse says, "3am."



********



Emerald eyes flutter open. She is alone in the bed. Taking a peek over the edge of the mattress, she notices the pillow is empty. [Hmm, they must have gone outside.] She gets up and heads into the bathroom for a shower. About twenty minutes later she exits towel drying her hair. "Good morning."

"Morning, beautiful," says the lanky figure lying on the bed with Artemis.

"How's Arty?"

"She seems fine, actually content. I'm getting ready to feed her. I thought once that's done, we could pack, check out, go to brunch and head out to the airport."

"That's right, we go home today." [I wish we were going to our home.]

[Is that something you really want?] Comes the response.

Dani shoots a look to her lover. Azure eyes meet sea green. [Did you just ask me that?]

[Yes, I did. Do you want for us to have a home?]

[Yes I would. I love being with you. But how do you feel?] She pushes an errant lock of blonde hair behind her ear.

[I would like you to move in with me.]

Dani walks over to the bed and kneels. A tear rolls down her cheek. She kisses her lover tenderly.

Jesse brushes the back of her knuckles down Dani's cheek to wipe away the tear. "I love you baby girl."

More tears spill down from bright green eyes. She hugs the tall woman.

"I guess I'll get dressed so we can go." Dani heads over to her travel bag.

Arty sucks heartily on her breakfast. The dark woman cannot help but silently giggle at this precious fur ball. [I wonder if she could be Tommy reincarnated.]

[Anything is possible.] Dani gives her lover a big grin.

"You sure are getting better at this very quick." Jesse says.

"Like you said before, I was just out of practice."



********

"There should be a cab waiting outside for us. Would you mind taking Arty while I pay the hotel bill?"

"No problem." Dani mentions. "Let me know how much my share is."

"Oh, no. I'm taking care of this. You paid for your plane ticket out here."

"Jess…" Further words are stopped by abrupt fingers at Dani's lips.

"Um, excuse me ladies." The front desk clerk clears his throat. They both turn to look at him. "The bill has already been paid."

"What?" the two women ask in unison.

Their piercing gaze makes the clerk nervous. "Um…" he grabs the back of his neck to loosen the tension. [God do they have to be so intense with their gaze?] "Because of the incident the other night, the hotel owner was very upset that this occurred. He took your bill and deleted it. He informed all the employees that whatever you two need is to be given without hesitation. And he left this here for you Miss Chandler." The clerk hands her the envelope.

She tears it open and reads the contents.

"What does it say Jess?"

"He profusely apologizes, and said that the individual who attacked you was not a resident but a new cook he recently hired. He assures us that the cook not only lost his job but will not be hired by anyone in this state. As part of his apology he took care of the bill and that of the car rental."

"Wow. You were right, the good vets receive the best service. And I know from experience that you give the best service too." Dani says with a teasing tone in her voice.

"I have many skills." Dark eyebrows wiggle mischievously.



The End.



(Coming soon. Part 2)



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