~ Political Crossfire ~
by Alex Tryst
Copyright August 2004

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Disclaimer: See Part 1.

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Part 2

It was the second weekend of May before Elisabeth and Dara saw each other again. Even though the brunette knew she still owed the older woman dinner at her place, she decided to forgo those plans and take the blonde on the plane ride she had promised her instead. She knew that the night she had the shorter woman over for dinner, she was going to try to make things more intimate between them if she continued to see openness in the blonde, which she had observed ever since Shelby had revealed Elisabeth's secret.

However, this day would test their relationship in a way it hadn't yet, given that Dara had planned a whole day's worth of activities for just the two of them. Their outings so far had merely been several hours at a time, but this day she had plans she was sure would appeal to the blonde. After getting dressed early that Saturday morning, she turned her attention to the clothes she would need throughout the day. She wanted to look good for their time together but also be comfortable for their various activities, so she was torn about what to bring.

Over at the Gunter household, Elisabeth was faced with the same problem. "I just don't know what to wear for dinner," she mentioned to Shelby, who was lying haphazardly across her sister's bed with clothes strewn all around her. "She said it was going to be formal."

"Let me get this straight. She's taking you by plane somewhere of which you have no idea. You're having lunch at a place that has a dress code. Then you're going horseback riding, and after that you're going to a formal dinner?"

"That's what she said. I sure hope she had primping time scheduled as well. I'm not going to be in any shape to go to dinner after riding without a shower at least."

"Knowing her she's thought of it but that still gives us no idea where she's taking you. Not to mention isn't it suppose to rain today?"

Elisabeth shrugged. "Well, I'm assuming that it won't be raining where we're going. Come on now. Help me decide on a dress. I've narrowed it down to these three," she said, holding the first one up for her sister.

"Too proper. This isn't a state dinner. You look like a matron," complained the younger woman.

Holding up another black dress, she inquired, "Okay. How about this?"

"Again too prudish. You can show a little cleavage. She'd probably enjoy that."

Smirking the older blonde quipped, "I'm sure she would. That leaves us with this blue one."

"That's the one. It's perfect. You're showing just enough to be alluring and yet are still well within the confines of your so-called friendship."

"Shut up, Shelby. You know as well as I do that this is all we can have at the moment."

"Sure, yeah, I know, but both of you are struggling in vain with your resolve. One of you is going to combust before it's all over, and I'm willing to bet it's going to be you," her sister teased.

"We'll see about that. All right. Now to figure out what to wear to lunch."

"What was the dress code for that?"

"No jeans, no shorts and shirt collar required."

"How about your new linen pants? Wear them with your blue sweater set."

"I was just thinking the same thing. I suppose that's as good a choice as any."

"What about your riding clothes? What are you going to wear?"

"The usual."

"Chaps included?" Shelby questioned in interest.

"Yeah."

"Oh, I would love to see the look on Dara's face when she saw you in those. Talk about walking sex. She's going to cream."

Elisabeth sneered at the comment. "Would you please stop saying things like that? You're so crude sometimes."

"I'm just telling you the truth. And don't pretend for one moment that the thought didn't cross your mind either."

"Well, for only a second. I just happen to know my butt looks good in them. All right. I need to shower now. She's going to be here soon."

Forty minutes later Elisabeth heard the doorbell as she was putting the last few things in her bag. Picking up her pace, she zipped it and then headed downstairs, so Shelby couldn't put any wild ideas into Dara's head while she wasn't there. However, she appeared to be too late she saw them snickering over something in the foyer.

The brunette looked up when the blonde entered the room and smiled. "You look nice," she complimented, reaching for the older woman's bag.

"Thanks, so do you."

Smiling at Shelby Dara said, "We'll see you later. I promise to bring your sister back in one piece."

"Have fun and don't do anything I wouldn't do."

"You're leaving the door open on that one, aren't you?" the younger attorney jested as she opened the front door.

"Get out of here," Shelby said before hugging her sister.

Getting into the car, the shorter woman asked, "So, will you tell me where we're going now? I've been dying to know."

"All right. I'm taking you to The Greenbrier."

"The Greenbrier? In West Virginia?"

"That's the one."

"Wow. I've always wanted to go there."

"It's nice. You'll enjoy it."

"I've always wanted to go on the Bunker Tour."

"Well, perhaps you'll get a chance to go that today," the younger woman stated. She hadn't gotten reservations for the tour but quickly decided she would try to work it in if it was what Elisabeth wanted. "We just have to be mindful of the weather. I've been studying it for the last few days, and it seems like we'll just miss it. Keep your fingers crossed anyway, because I don't want to fly in the rain."

"I don't blame you. I wouldn't want to either."

Heading off to the airport, Dara parked her car in the lot and then picked up their bags to the trip. Quietly she escorted the blonde to her plane. "Feel free to look around or whatever. I just need to do a pre-flight inspection. It'll only take about twenty minutes or so," Dara explained as she unlocked the doors. She carefully stowed the luggage in the back, and then meticulously began her inspection of her plane.

The older woman just stood off to the side and observed. She noted that the brunette took great care in looking at every detail of the aircraft. She hadn't thought much about the actual flight they were taking together, but as she watched Dara, she felt more comfortable with the idea of being with her in the small four-seater. Curiosity getting the better of her, the blonde ducked under the wing and opened the passenger's side door to look at the inside. The plane was immaculate, further solidifying her feelings that the younger woman took her position as a pilot as seriously as she did her other professions.

When Dara was finished with her examination, she looked at the blonde and smiled. "So, are you ready for this little adventure?"

"Ready as I'll ever be."

"Great. Then let's get out of here. Hop in while I remove the blocks." Elisabeth did as she was told, taking a seat in the plane and closing her door. The taller woman joined her shortly there after. They didn't talk to each other as the brunette wrote some things down in a log and then put on her headset. "Here. If you put these on, it'll help with the noise," she said, extending another headset to the older attorney.

At first the blonde was hesitant, because she thought they would mess up her hair, but she figured it would be better than being subjected to the noise the entire way to West Virginia, so she put them on over her ears. She was pleasantly surprised to realize she was able to hear Dara more clearly with them on as the pilot began to speak to the air traffic controller.

The flight to The Greenbrier was without incident. The two of them chatted amiably on the way, and when they had landed, the younger woman quickly ushered them to an awaiting car to take them to the resort only a few miles away. Allowing a bellhop to take their bags, Dara led the way into the establishment up to the check-in desk where they were greeted politely.

Smiling brilliantly Dara said, "Hi. Checking in please."

"All right. What's the reservation name?"

"Dara Rosenthal," she replied, looking over at Elisabeth. She could tell by the look in the blonde's eyes that she was puzzled by the development. Hastily she rationalized, "This isn't what it looks like. We just needed a place to clean up and change for dinner."

The shorter woman nodded in understanding. Even though she hadn't thought any differently, it was surprising to her that Dara would reserve a room at the five-star resort just as a place to change clothes. Her mind drifted to other things they could do together in such a setting as the brunette completed their check-in. When it was complete, Dara took their bags and led the way to their room. Elisabeth took in the décor, which didn't seem to faze the younger woman at all, making her wonder if Dara had been there previously.

Ten minutes later they arrived at their designated room. "Here we are," the brunette mentioned, unlocking the door and then opening it for Elisabeth to enter first.

The older attorney stepped into the room and flipped on the lights. It was elegantly decorated with pastels and florals just as she had read about in magazines. Going over to the window, she opened the shades to reveal a picturesque view of the mountains and golf course. Meanwhile Dara was busy putting her clothes on hangers, so they wouldn't be wrinkled later. "You want to hang anything in your bag?" the brunette inquired.

"Oh yeah. My dress is probably a mess by now. Hopefully it won't be too bad by dinner," she answered, unzipping her luggage.

They worked in silence putting their belongings away before Dara said, "All right. It's a little after eleven now. I reserved some horses from noon to three. Then we have the Bunker Tour at five, followed by dinner at seven thirty."

Looking at the younger attorney quizzically, Elisabeth asked, "And what time did you plan on leaving here tonight to go home?"

"Well, I figured if we can be at the airport by nine, nine thirty, I could have you back at home in your bed between midnight and one in the morning."

"That's a long day. Are you sure you're going to be up to it?"

"Of course. Don't worry. I've done it before."

"All right. I trust you. Let's get some lunch. I'm starving," the shorter woman joked.

"You're not the only one." Since both of them were anxious to move on to their outdoor activities, lunch was a quick affair and then it was back to the room to change into riding clothes. Dara let Elisabeth have the bathroom while she changed into her jeans. Since she was already wearing the shirt the older woman had given her, she figured she would just continue to wear it. Dara was just putting on her boots when she heard the bathroom door open. Her eyes went from the floor up a pair of leather clad legs, making her heart start pounding loudly in her chest. She had never seen anyone looking so dangerously sexy as Elisabeth did in her chaps and jeans. "Nice pants," she managed to state as she stood from the bed.

Smiling at the sight of the woman she wanted, Elisabeth replied, "Thanks."

"Are you ready?"

"Yeah. Just let me pull on my boots."

When they were ready, Dara led them out of the room. The blonde started back toward the lobby when the younger woman stopped her. "We can't go that way. Jeans aren't permitted in the lobby. Besides there's a faster way out to the stables."

First the first two hours of riding, the women simply talked about different people they both knew back at law school and what their peers were doing with their degrees. When they weren't focused on their own careers, they found it easy to get along, so with unspoken agreement, they stayed away from the topic of the election or social politics. However, as their last hour on the riding trail began to pass, it started raining. Not only was it raining though, thunder accompanied the unfavorable weather, making them decide to head back to the stables earlier than planned. By the time they arrived, both women were drenched. Immediately returning to their hotel room, Dara suggested they take the opportunity to shower in order to warm themselves after being subjected to the cold spring rain. Elisabeth nodded her head in agreement.

"You can go first. Take one of the robes from the closet," Dara offered.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah. I'll be fine. Go on. I'll just sit here and watch TV while you're in there."

"All right. I won't be long." Going into the bathroom, Elisabeth stripped off her wet clothes. She knew she should be getting into the shower to warm her body, but her mind kept wandering to the fact that just on the other side of the door from where she stood naked was the woman of her fantasies. She wanted nothing more than for the brunette to walk in upon her just then and sweep her into a passionate embrace, but she knew Dara would never be so bold as to act that way. The Dark-haired attorney had proved her chivalry time and again, so the blonde understood if she wanted something, she would have to seek it herself, and she wasn't prepared to do such a thing, at least not yet.

While Elisabeth was in the bathroom, Dara peeled off her wet clothes, laying them over the chairs by the table and pulling on one of the hotel's plush robes. She then stood looking out the window, watching the weather as she thought about the blonde. She was just a few feet away, separated by only a wall completely wet and naked. The younger woman let herself fantasize about what Elisabeth might look like in that shower, the way the water cascaded down her fair body as she washed her hair and soaped her skin. The image left her weak in her legs, making her seek the bed for support. Lying back on it, she closed her eyes as she listened to the sounds of the water and imagined the two of them together making love in that small space as hot water sprayed over the both of them. It left her with an agonizing ache. She knew it was getting harder for her to control herself around the older woman. She thought that she would be able to handle the restrictions of allowing the blonde to go at her own pace, but it was proving to be difficult.

Elisabeth turned off the water when she was finished. Even though she could have stayed in there much longer, she knew Dara was waiting to get warm as well. Putting on the robe the hotel had provided, she wrapped a towel around her blonde hair and then stepped out into the room. She just stared for a moment at the sight before her. There on the bed fast asleep was Dara, her body clothed in only the robe. Her legs were staggered enough to allow the older woman to see an expanse of toned thigh she had only dreamed about before. Debating on whether to wake her companion or not, she returned to the bathroom to dry her hair, figuring the sound of the hair dryer would wake Dara naturally, so she wouldn't have to. She wasn't sure she would be able to restrain herself if she had to awake the enticing sleeping woman. Correct in her assumption, by the time her hair was dry the taller woman was awake again and ready to take her shower. Once both women were dry and changed into warmer clothes, they had about half an hour before they were scheduled for the Bunker Tour, so Elisabeth asked the younger woman to take her on a tour of the famous hotel, to which Dara readily agreed, because she didn't want to be in the room alone with Elisabeth and nothing to do any longer than necessary.

The tour of the hotel and then the famous Bunker Tour took the next several hours. In the meantime the rain had moved out of the area, clearing into a clear cool evening. After their tour the women returned to their room to change for dinner. Both of them could feel a palpable tension as they dressed. Even though neither of them spoke, and they dressed in different areas of the room for privacy, something about the air around them had been charged since they had gotten back from riding, making the blonde wonder about the rest of the night. She knew it was getting harder for her to keep her feelings platonic, especially since she knew her interest was returned, but she wasn't ready to declare anything yet. It was still too risky given her career situation. Knowing she had to remain strong, she took a deep breath and prepared for another torturous night on her emotions as she stepped out of the bathroom.

Dara was sitting on the sofa watching the weather on TV when the blonde appeared. She couldn't help herself as her eyes perused her company's outfit. "You look fabulous," she complimented. "That dress really sets off your eyes."

"Thank you. You look very nice too."

"Thanks," the taller woman replied standing to give Elisabeth the full view of her black silk pants and coordinating blouse. "You ready?"

"If you are. What are you watching the weather for?"

"The system is moving toward D.C. I was just tracking its pace. There could be a slight problem, but I don't want to worry about it now. Hopefully it will have passed by the time we need to go home. For now though, let's just enjoy our dinner."

"Sounds good to me."

With that the brunette led the way down to the formal dining room for dinner. Elisabeth found all the haughtiness of the place amusing, and yet she could tell there were several people that took the superior air of the resort seriously. The Greenbrier was more than just a hotel but a way of life for the wealthy divisions of society of the Mid-Atlantic region of the country. It made her wonder about the younger woman's finances, because she felt extremely familiar with the resort as if she had been there on a number of occasions.

After they were seated, Elisabeth decided to find out more, so she asked, "I've been meaning to ask you this all day. How many times have you been here before?"

"More than I can probably recall. This is my parents' favorite place to vacation. They used to drag us here as kids. We hated it then, but I've grown to appreciate it now. It's a great place to network and fundraise. However, if I had my choice, I'd pick a little cabin in the mountains over this colossal facility."

"I would too. I like more rustic environments. This is way too civilized to be in the middle of nowhere."

"I agree. Although it's nice to go celebrity spotting. They come here for the solitude," Dara mentioned, looking at her menu. "I'm surprised we haven't seen any."

"The trip's not over. There's still time. However, I'm not here to see them. You're the only one worth seeing."

Casting a small smile at the blonde, she stated, "That's just about the nicest compliment I've gotten in awhile. It means even more coming from you. Now what looks good to you?"

Dinner was a quiet yet pleasant affair between them. Due to the fact that they were scheduled to fly shortly after dinner, Dara didn't drink but had encouraged the older woman to do so if she wanted. As much as the blonde did want to sample some of the wines on the menu, she figured it was better not to do so. She knew it would be harder for her to keep herself in check that way, so she too passed on alcohol. However, both women dined on the decadent menu offered. Around 8:45 Dara requested their tab, knowing they had to head to the airport soon. Quickly she paid it and then escorted the blonde back to the room, so they could pack their belongings.

When they reached the room, Elisabeth slowly began to pack her bag. As she did it though, she desperately tried to think of a reason to stay at the hotel. She didn't want the evening to end with Dara. Even though she knew she wasn't ready to initiate more between them, she still longed to be close to the brunette. Hearing the TV on, she stuck her head out of the bathroom to see Dara watching the weather again.

"What's going on with the storm?" the shorter woman inquired curiously.

"It's still over the D.C. area. I'm contemplating our options right now."

"Which are?"

"Well, we can go for it, but I don't want to get caught in a storm. I really don't like to fly in bad weather. We'll catch some rain, but it might not be too bad. However, it could be bad. We just won't know until we're in it really."

"What are the other options?"

"Well, I can fly us a different route home, but I'm not sure if that's a good idea. Look at the line of the storm," she pointed out on the TV screen. "It goes all the way from southern Virginia into Pennsylvania. I don't like the look of it."

"So what's your bright idea?"

"Wait it out. We stay here for another few hours and then leave. The storm is expected to move out by two."

"You'll be too exhausted to fly by then, though. Can't we sleep here and then just go back early in the morning?"

Dara nodded. "We have this room until noon tomorrow. I didn't want to assume anything. I know this looks bad, but it wasn't my intention to keep you hostage here overnight."

"I'd hardly consider staying at this resort being held hostage," Elisabeth joked even though her heart rate had sped up at the thought of them staying the night together.

"Well, if that's okay with you, then I'm fine with it as well."

"Yeah. I think that's the best choice we have, Dara. The weather is just not cooperating, and I don't want you to fly if you're not comfortable with it. I'll just call Shelby and let her know we're staying here, so she won't worry."

"Okay. I really do think it's for the best."

"Fine. That's what we'll do then. The only bad thing about this is that I don't have anything to sleep in."

Nodding the brunette went to her bag. "I think I can help with that."

"If you have pajamas in there, I might start to get suspicious," she teased.

"Sorry, none of those. However, I do have some lightweight sweat pants, a pair of shorts, and a few extra t-shirts. You can wear whatever you want."

Picking up and t-shirt and the pants, the blonde answered, "Thanks. I'm going to just call Shelby now."

Nodding her head, the brunette turned her attentions back to the TV while the older woman went to make her call. Heading into the bathroom, she changed her clothes and then dialed her sister on her cell phone.

"Hey. How's the date going?"

"It's been great so far. Listen. I just wanted to call you and let you know that I won't be home until the morning."

"That good? You two are spending the night together?"

"Well, out of necessity really. The weather isn't cooperating."

"Likely story," Shelby teased.

"How's the storm where you are?"

"Actually the power is out at the moment. It is probably best you stay there in the strong arms of your beloved."

"Shelby, this isn't some ploy. She's just uncomfortable with the idea of flying in this weather, and I happen to agree with her."

"Well, I'll give her that. I wouldn't want you flying either. It's just convenient that you're alone together."

"I know. This has been an incredible day, Shelby. It's been perfect even if we did get caught out in the rain while we were riding. I'll tell you. I about had a heart attack seeing her all wet in only a robe."

"I'm sure. Well, you two enjoy yourselves and travel safely tomorrow."

"We will. See you then."

"Good night."

"Night, Shelby."

Once the call was complete, the blonde opened the door leading back to the bedroom. Dara was putting her suit on a hanger in the hallway, leaving her in only a t-shirt and a pair of gym shorts. Elisabeth snuck a look at the taller woman's legs. She could easily see the younger woman had kept her soccer player's body from college with her powerful muscles.

Turning and gazing over her shoulder, the younger attorney saw were blue eyes were looking. Instead of mentioning it though, she simply smiled and said, "You know, since we're staying here, it's a little early to be going to sleep. Would you like to watch a movie? I can order up some dessert for us if you want."

"That sounds good."

"Great. I was wanting some ice cream myself. The menu is over on the table. Just let me know what you want," she requested as she brushed by the older woman to go into the bathroom herself.

Elisabeth went to study the menu for a few minutes before deciding on something decadent-sounding. Then she turned her attention to the TV to find them something suitable to watch and made herself comfortable on the small sofa. Within a few minutes the brunette returned and placed their order for room service before joining the shorter woman on the couch.

Both women were quiet after agreeing on what to watch. Dara felt strange sitting next to Elisabeth now that they were in much more casual clothes. She stole a glance at the blonde. The older woman looked adorable sitting in a white t-shirt and a pair of her sweats. The brunette noticed though, by the way the cotton clung to the blonde's torso, that Elisabeth hadn't bothered to take off her bra, leaving the younger woman with slight disappointment. She had badly wanted to see more of the woman who she fantasized about often, but it appeared that she would not get the opportunity.

The rest of the night passed in silence with the exception of the TV. Finally around midnight Dara suggested they go to sleep, so they could go back early the next day. Nodding her head in agreement, Elisabeth contemplated what was to happen next. Her eyes found the queen sized bed. Knowing she would have to share the space with the brunette, she took a calming breath. It was going to be a difficult night for her with Dara in such close proximity, but she knew she had no other choice.

Seeing where the blonde's eyes were, Dara sensed a problem. Feeling as if she should offer some sort of alternative, she said, "You know, I could sleep here on the couch."

Elisabeth smiled when she heard the proposal, for she knew Dara was trying to be sensitive to her needs as always. However, she knew it wouldn't be right to subject the woman to a sleepless night on a sofa that was too small to hold her tall frame. Shaking her head in answer, she replied, "Don't be silly. You can't even fit on this couch. We'll share the bed."

"If you're sure. I don't want to make you uncomfortable."

"I'm not uncomfortable with it. On the contrary, what would make me uncomfortable would be to let my hostess sleep on the couch when I had a cozy bed that was meant for two."

"Fine then. Let's get to sleep. All this activity today is making me sleepy."

Moving to the bed, Elisabeth slipped into the side closest to the window, leaving Dara closer to the hotel bathroom and door. The brunette waited until the older woman seemed settled before turning out the light and intentionally turning her back to the blonde even as much as she didn't want to do so.

The shorter woman lay in the dark for a moment before whispering, "Good night, Dara."

"Good night, Elisabeth. Sleep well."

All was quiet then in the room. Neither woman spoke, but both were wide awake with their thoughts. Elisabeth's were running rampant as she realized her fantasy of having the brunette in her bed was actually upon her. Dara was so close she could feel the younger woman's back just inches from her body, and it began to fill her with an edgy need. The more she tried to control her thoughts, the more her body reneged as she began to tremble with unfulfilled desires. At first it was just a shiver and then all out shuddering began to occur. Curling up in a tight ball, she willed herself to stop shaking.

Dara felt Elisabeth's quaking beside her. She wasn't sure what to do at first, because she didn't want to embarrass the blonde by alerting her to her acknowledgment of the situation, but after several minutes, she realized it would probably be better to reassure her. Turning over so she was facing the shorter woman, she gently placed a hand on Elisabeth's arm. The blonde yelped in surprise, causing Dara to start apologizing profusely. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to startle you. Are you cold? Do you want me to turn on the heater?"

"I'm a little cold," she lied.

Immediately the brunette tried to move out of the bed to go to the heater, but she was held back by a hand on hers. She noticed that Elisabeth held Dara's hand firmly to her arm where she had first placed it. Figuring this was as close as the older woman was going to get to giving direction, Dara stayed where she was for a moment. When Elisabeth kept the taller woman's hand on her arm, she considered that a sign that she was to remain there. Deciding to take a chance, Dara lay back down again and slowly slipped her arm from the blonde's around her waist. She could feel how tense Elisabeth's body was against her own, not assuring her that this was what the older woman wanted, so she softly inquired, "Is this okay?"

Swallowing her nerves, the blonde nodded in the dark. "It's fine," she managed to respond.

"Well, you let me know when you're warm enough. I'm quite the space heater."

Laughing lightly in an effort to relax in the brunette's embrace, the older woman focused on the warmth that was quickly suffusing her back from Dara's body against her own. "You certainly are that."

Feeling the tension slowly starting to fade from her company, Dara whispered, "Well, sweet dreams, Elisabeth."

"You too, Dara." Closing her eyes, the blonde concentrated on the glorious feeling of the taller woman's body against hers. She had dreamed of it so many times, and it was finally a reality. The more accustomed she became with the idea of them being that close, the more her body relaxed enough to enjoy the moment. As she devoted her attention to every place their bodies melded together, she realized she could hear the brunette's breath in her ear. Dara was taking painstakingly slow deep breaths. Elisabeth quickly realized the younger woman was trying to control her own body's response to them being that close, and she found strange comfort in Dara's obvious want and disciplined resolution not to advance their relationship even though she felt sure more than ever that the younger woman knew of her own desires. She knew she was safe in the arms of the woman she secretly loved.

When the alarm started beeping in the morning, Dara grumbled incoherently as she slapped at it irritably. She hadn't gotten much sleep during the night. She was far too awake at the feeling of Elisabeth sleeping her arms to fall asleep herself. She was sure she hadn't drifted off until well after three in the morning, and now at nine her body regretted the decision to forgo sleep in favor of indulging in her secret reverie. Her sleepy thoughts were broken by a tiny mewling sound.

"Just a few more minutes," the blonde begged drowsily.

"We don't really have to get up now. We don't have to leave here until noon actually, so we could sleep a few more hours," Dara tried to justify.

"Good. Let's do that," Elisabeth commented, snuggling against the brunette's shoulder.

Knowing she would much rather go back to sleep, the younger woman quickly reset the alarm for later that morning and drifted back to dreams. About an hour later, though, the shrill of the blonde's cell phone awoke them both. Groggily Elisabeth managed to get out of bed and answer it. Dara could tell just by the look on the blonde's face that it wasn't a good phone call.

"Sir, I'm sorry I can't make it to the meeting. I'm out of town," she explained to the caller. "Yes, sir. I know the importance of being at your disposal, but I am entitled to a life outside of the campaign. This is the first weekend I've gone away since starting. I've been dedicated, but I'm telling you I'm not going to make it today. You'll just have to fill me in later," she stated. Dara wondered who the older woman was talking based on the way she spoke. Even though her words were firm, her tone was subservient, peaking her interest. "Sir, I'm at The Greenbrier. It would take me hours to get back. Just have the meeting without me." The blonde listened for another moment before repeating, "Sir, have the meeting. Fill me in tomorrow. I apologize for not being there, but I'm unavailable."

After a few more exchanges the call ended and the women looked at each other. Seeing the distress in the blonde's eyes, Dara inquired, "Something wrong?"

"A last minute campaign meeting. These people think you have to give your life to the cause. For once I would just like to relax on the weekend and do my own thing, and I'm getting a hard time about it. It's nothing. I'll do some kissing up when I get back, and it'll be fine."

"Are you sure?"

"Even if I wasn't, there is nothing I can do about it now. Just forget it even happened. I'm still tired," she mentioned, coming back to the bed. Both of them settled down again, and Dara was asleep within minutes. However, Elisabeth's mind was on the call. That was too close for her. Just when she was beginning to feel comfortable with the brunette, the President had a way of making himself known. The phone conversation had rattled her more than she cared to admit, especially since she had just told him she was unavailable. Knowing she had to figure out a way to make it up to him, she wondered what she could do to get back on favorable terms as she drifted off to sleep once again.

By the time the women got back to the older woman's house that day, it was almost noon. Dara dutifully carried her bags to the door and then waited as Elisabeth unlocked it. Placing them in the foyer on the floor, the younger attorney smiled at her company. "Well, I'm sure you have a lot to do today, so I'm going to go."

"Thank you, Dara, for the wonderful time. The whole thing was just amazing."

"I'm glad you had a good time. Listen. I don't know if you have any plans for the Memorial Day weekend, but my sister, Leah, and I are going to throw a little barbeque pool party at our place that holiday Monday. I would like it if you and Shelby would come. It'll be fun."

"I'll ask her and get back to you. I'm not sure of my schedule yet."

Nodding the brunette contemplated what she should do. After spending the night together, she felt as if she could hug the blonde without any negative response, but she still wondered if a more intimate farewell would be all right. Reaching for the shorter woman, she embraced her in a hug quickly and just decided to test the waters. Placing a kiss on top of the blonde's head, she said, "Well, I'll talk to you later. Have a good day."

"You too. Thanks again," Elisabeth managed to reply, but her heart was pounding wildly at the feeling of what Dara had just done. She waited until the younger woman had pulled away from the curb to close the door and then headed upstairs with her bags.

She was met in the hallway by her grinning younger sister. "So, tell me. Was it as good as you hoped it would be?"

"Shelby, get your mind out of the gutter. We didn't have sex."

"You're kidding. She drops several hundred dollars on a date, and you don't put out. I'm ashamed," the younger blonde joked.

"More like a couple of thousand. I've never been treated like that in my life. It was the perfect date. She took me on an incredible day, and the night was just as good."

"Yeah, well, it's the night I'm most interested in. Did you at least make out?"

"You know I can't do that with her right now. I'm at a point that if I start I might not be able to stop, and I can't have that happen. It's already bad enough that the President woke me up from her bed this morning. If she knew that it was him, I'm not sure how she would take it."

"You're going to have to tell her at some point. The longer you hide it, the more it's going to hurt her in the end."

"I know, but I'm not sure how yet."

"Well, I'm sure you'll figure it out, but for now, give me the dirt. Tell me everything."

Smiling at her sister, Elisabeth started, "She was so sweet the entire time. Last night we slept together in the same bed, and I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I freaked out. I started to shake so badly. I just couldn't help myself. It's the first time in my life my emotions just made me feel out of control, but she held me. She didn't try anything, just held me all night, and it was heaven. It was even better than the fantasies of us being together. I've never felt so safe and loved."

"That's sweet. She's wonderful, Elisabeth. I really hope you two can make it until November. I know you have so much potential, but I'm still worried about you blowing it. You're not telling her the complete truth."

"I'm going to tell her, Shelby, when the time is right. On a side note though, she invited us to a party at her house Memorial Day. Please tell me you don't have plans."

"No plans. Are we going?"

"Yeah. I just didn't want to tell her in case you were busy. I don't want to go alone. Her sister Leah will be there."

"Cool. Can't wait."

******************************************************************

On Memorial Day Elisabeth and Shelby were both excited about the prospect of going to Dara's house for the party. They had never been there before, and it was a chance to meet one of her sisters and learn more about the brunette. However, trying to figure out the best outfit for the day was a large task for the older blonde.

Shelby was sitting in her usual spot on Elisabeth's bed helping her sister with the options. "Show me your bathing suit options first, Lis. That's most important."

"All right. That's my biggest problem actually. I want to show a bit but not be too flashy. The first one is this one piece," she said as she took off her clothes to try on the suit.

"Well, it's all right. I mean it looks good on you but is a little conservative. I mean I can't even see your cleavage."

"Okay. Next is this two piece. I think it has potential." Slipping it on, she turned to look in her full-length mirror. "No, wait. My butt looks big in this one. Forget it."

"I agree. Next," Shelby stated.

"Now this might be too revealing for a party. I mean I don't mind the idea of showing off this much for her, but I don't know who else is going to be there."

"Try it on and we'll see."

Elisabeth put on the two piece blue and white striped seersucker suit and turned for approval. "Well?"

"You look incredible, Lis. That's the one you have to wear. It's perfect with that faux tan you sprayed on. You look like a goddess. Perfect cleavage, great line with your legs. It has to be this one."

"Are you sure? I don't want to look like a slut, Shelby."

"You don't. You just look stunningly beautiful. Dara is going to die when she sees you. Now we have to figure out what to wear over it. Do you still have that blue and white wrap skirt you bought a couple of years ago?"

"Yeah."

"Try that on with it and let me see."

Doing what she was told, the older woman looked at her sister. Placing her sunglasses on top of her head, she questioned, "Do I need a top of some sort?"

"And cover up those incredible assets? No way," Shelby teased.

"Seriously, Shelby. I think I should at least until I am comfortable with my company."

"Fine. Let's see what you have," her sister said, getting up and moving to the closet.

Once both blondes were dressed, Elisabeth drove them over to Dara's house. As they entered the brunette's development, the older one asked, "Where are you taking us, Shelby? Are you sure these are the directions?"

"This is what they say. Dara never mentioned anything about living in these mansions. Makes me believe my theory is true."

"What theory is that?"

"The girl has money. I mean the weekend trip to The Greenbrier was a sure tip off."

"That's true, but still she doesn't seem the type with what she does. I guess we'll see."

A few minutes later when the duo pulled up to the house on the directions Shelby laughed. "Well, it's the largest house on the street. You still think she doesn't have money?"

"How could she afford it in her line of work?" curiously Elisabeth questioned aloud. She knew people working in the non-profit sector were not well paid. Hearing voices coming from the backyard, she mentioned, "Dara said just to go around the back." Moving in that direction, both women noticed that the party consisted of all women. However, she saw several familiar faces of women she'd been introduced to previously. Shouldering her bag Elisabeth opened the gate. Immediately she saw Dara look in her direction.

"Well, if it isn't the prettiest girl to join the party. How are you Shelby?" she teased, coming over to them. "Elisabeth, how are you today?" she questioned with a smile. "I'm glad you could make it. You look great."

"Thanks. You certainly look different out of a business suit," she joked as she tried to calm her racing heart at the sight of the taller woman in her swimsuit, which consisted of a pair of tiny form-fitting shorts and a tankini top that left her abdomen exposed.

"Come on. Let me introduce you all to the others." Making the rounds with the blondes, she left her sister for last. "Leah, I want to introduce you to two special ladies. These are the infamous Gunter girls I've been telling you about. This is Shelby and Elisabeth."

Smiling at her guests, Leah extended her hand. "It's great to meet both of you. Dara has told me so much about you that I feel like we're already friends. I'm glad she finally got up the nerve to invite you over. She's been so nervous about you finding out we live at home."

Looking at Dara Elisabeth saw her blush lightly. "Oh, well, she hadn't mentioned that part."

"Yeah, I was going to. I figured you'd realize it when you drove up, but I assure you it's not as bad as it sounds. In fact, why don't I give you a tour to prove it?"

"That would be great. Lead on," Shelby suggested.

Taking the two blondes into a door close to the patio, she said, "This is where Leah and I live. It's a basement apartment completely separate from our parents. I don't even see them."

"Wow. It's actually quite large. Look at all this space you have," Shelby mentioned, walking further into the apartment.

Quickly Dara showed them all the rooms except for her own bedroom before proposing, "Why don't we head outside now so I can start on the grill?"

However, Shelby shook her head. "You've forgotten to show us the most important thing. Where is your love nest?"

"It's a little bit of a mess."

"So? We still want to see it. Right, Lis?"

Even though Elisabeth was curious, she didn't want to push the issue. "Only if you want to show us."

"Come on, Dara. Just let us take a peek," the youngest woman pressed.

"Fine. It's over here by my office." Opening the door she allowed both Shelby and Elisabeth to look into the room.

Taking note of the queen-sized bed on the far side of the spacious room and the dark furniture that suited the owner, the older attorney knew she would be having a fantasy about Dara later with the visual input of what her room actually looked like. About that time they heard Leah calling from the door of the apartment, "Dara, get out here. We're hungry, and Allison is threatening to take over the grill. You know what happened last time. She almost set the place on fire."

"We should get back outside. I promised to wait until you got here but not a second more to start on the food," she explained. "You can leave your bag inside if you want though or take it with us. I have towels and sun screen outside already."

Heading back to the pool, the brunette started her task of grilling the hamburgers that had been previously prepared while Leah attended to the other food. Most of the women lounged in chairs close to the water's edge chatting, so Elisabeth and Shelby decided to join the fray of conversation.

As Dara manned the grill, she kept her eyes on Elisabeth. The blonde appeared to be having fun with the other guests, which pleased her greatly. However, she was intrigued by the older woman's outfit. She could just see that the blonde attorney had a suit on under her clothes, but she desperately wanted to know what it looked like. Shelby had already made herself comfortable, shedding her outer layers for just her bikini, and Dara figured if the older woman looked half as delectable as her younger sister, she was not going to be disappointed. It was a matter of making Elisabeth comfortable enough to lower her guard and relax though.

Once the hamburgers were finished, all of the guests got their plates and circled the buffet table to serve themselves. Dara and Leah stood off to the side a moment just watching when the older sister whispered, "So, what do you think?"

"She's fabulous, as is her sister. You didn't tell me so much about Shelby."

"Oh, well, I didn't think it was important at the time. Why do you say that anyway?"

"Remember when I said I sometimes wondered what it would be like to jump the fence?" Dara nodded skeptically. "Well, something tells me Shelby is the same way."

"She is, but she's pretty wild, Leah. She might be more than you bargained for. Trust me on that."

"Oh, come on now. How wild can she be? Tell me I have your approval though. I wouldn't want to mess anything up between you and Elisabeth."

"Go ahead. Have fun. Just use protection please. She's quite the player too. I don't want either of you getting hurt."

"Enough said. This is going to be fun. Thanks, sis."

"No problem."

"Now would you get after your girl? She needs some encouragement to get more comfortable," Leah teased before joining the group of girls around the table.

Dara was the last in line for food. As she filled up her plate, she noticed that some of her friends were vying for the blonde's attention as they ate. Chuckling to herself Dara made her way over to Elisabeth's chair to assess the situation further. Several of her friends were firmly planted in seats near the attractive woman, leaving Dara nowhere to sit even remotely close to her. Enjoying the view of the older woman entertaining people, though, she simply sat across the circle and tended to her own food. Every once in awhile she would look across the way and catch blue eyes.

Elisabeth was mildly disappointed that she couldn't sit next to the brunette, so she kept seeking her out with her eyes as often as she could without it seeming like she was staring. She smiled every time she noticed Dara's eyes on her in return. As she sat there, she got to feeling more comfortable with her company. It had quickly become obvious that everyone at the party that day was a lesbian with the exception of Leah and Shelby, but it didn't bother her as she thought it would that many women were showing her attention. She felt flattered by it, but yet at the same time, she wished it was Dara giving her such notice. The lingering gazes she felt from the younger attorney, though, were enough for the moment.

Feeling curious and playful as well as hot from the sun, the blonde decided to see what would happen if she took off her outer layers. Even though she knew it was going to have an effect on all those around her, the only opinion that she cared about was the taller woman's. She wanted to exhibit some of her attributes to the brunette much in the same way Dara had put herself on ravishing display with her suit. Trying to act casual about it, Elisabeth set her plate and cup aside on a nearby table. Leaning back in her chair, she continued to talk to the woman next to her but slowly reached up to the top button of her white cotton blouse. As if it were an unconscious act, she leisurely began to play with it before slipping it from its hole. The next button followed a few moments later and so on until they were all undone, but Elisabeth intentionally left the material closed for the meantime. Her eyes flitted over to Dara to make sure she was paying attention. The brunette did not disappoint. In fact, it was obvious what her display was doing to the younger woman. Even though the brunette's demeanor hadn't changed, Elisabeth could see the pulse of her neck pounding rapidly.

Deciding on a next course of action, the older woman fished an ice cube from her cup and leisurely ran it along her neck. The heat of the day and the temperature of her body quickly started to melt it into water. Moving her hand down a bit, she brushed open her top as she trailed the ice cube teasingly along the slope of her breasts. Her eyes went to Dara's to see her reaction.

The Tall attorney sat perfectly still in her seat mesmerized by the demonstration. She watched carefully as the trickles of water cascaded slowly from the swell of the blonde's chest down into her cleavage. Just the image of it sent her body into a heat wave as wetness settled between her thighs. She hadn't wanted Elisabeth so much as she did in that moment. She desperately wanted to be that water taking that path and exploring the crevices of the blonde's body. She just didn't know if she could control herself if she watched any longer, so she abruptly stood from her chair.

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm going for a swim. I think it's sweltering out here," she mentioned, putting down her plate. Not even waiting for any sort of response from anyone, she made her way over to the deep end and promptly dove in. Staying under the water, Dara swam the length of the pool in order to cool off from the blonde's teasing. She wasn't quite sure if Elisabeth knew what she was doing or the effect it was having, but she knew she had to regain some control of her raging desires or else there could be trouble.

Elisabeth watched her do laps for a few moments before her sister's voice interrupted her thoughts. "Did you have to mess with her so badly, Lis? Look at the poor woman," she teased, to which a round of laughter erupted.

The older sister blushed but didn't answer the quip. Instead she stood up from her own seat and took off her top the rest of the way as well as her wrap skirt before moving over to the shallow end of the pool. She wasn't quite ready to celebrate her victory yet. She wanted to play with the younger woman a little more first, so when Dara had made a turn to swim back to the deep end, Elisabeth tentatively stepped into the pool. It took a moment to get used to the cool temperature, but she sat on the stairs in the water and waited for the brunette to swim back her way.

As Dara swam back to the shallow end, she could see a pair of legs crossed at the knee under the water. Swimming up curiously next to them, she raised her head out of the water as she reached the stairs. Surprised by what she saw, she took a swift exhale. There was Elisabeth leaning back against the side of the pool, her arms extended along the pool edge, exposing her perfect femininity. She smiled sexily at Dara and whispered, "Hi."

"Hello," carefully the younger woman answered as her eyes strayed to the blonde's breasts and the water lapping gently against the bottom edge of the blue and white top. Knowing it would be best to swim away, Dara started to turn for just that purpose but a hand on her shoulder stopped her.

"Don't go. Sit and talk to me," Elisabeth requested.

The younger woman nodded slowly and uneasily before taking an uncertain seat on the stairs next to the blonde. "Hot weather we're having," she mentioned, not knowing exactly what to say and yet feeling completely ignorant at the comment that had just escaped her. She knew she could do better than that, but the sight of Elisabeth's body had cut off the functioning in her brain and shifted it to areas south of where it usually was.

The shorter woman chuckled at how adorable Dara when she was nervous. "It is a little on the warm side. However, let's talk about something other than the weather."

"Such as?"

"I don't. How about Leah? Tell me more about her."

Dara shrugged as she looked to the woman in question. Her sister was talking to Shelby in what seemed like an intense conversation. "Um, what's to tell? She's my kid sister and a med student. She's pretty terrific actually."

"I can see that. I wish I had met her sooner, but you hadn't exactly invited me over."

"I know. I just wasn't sure how you would react to me living at home. It makes me sound like a big loser. Here I am thirty and living in my parents' basement."

"Oh, don't be so hard on yourself. As you said, it's completely separate from them. It's one of the nicest apartments I've ever seen."

"Well, we do pay rent and utilities. It's not like we're just living off of them," Dara further defended.

"Well, it couldn't be much better. You have all the amenities. If I could live with my mother, I'd do it. She's just in Atlanta. If it makes you feel any better though, my mom owns the house Shelby and I live in, and we don't even pay rent, just utilities."

Dara nodded her head. Looking back at their sisters, she said, "Tell me something, Elisabeth. Do you think your sister would ever sleep with a woman?"

"What? Why are you asking me that?" she inquired, suddenly worried about Dara's intentions.

"My sister seems to think so and has decided to give Shelby her best seduction. I'm just curious as to if it will actually work."

"Leah's a lesbian?"

"No, not at all. She's just one of those free-spirited curious types, and she's always wanted to know the allure. Seems to me Shelby is the same way."

Elisabeth nodded in agreement as she looked at her sister in conversation with Leah. "Well, Shelby is the most sexually open person I know. I'm not sure if she would ever go that route, but I don't think I would be surprised if she tried it. I know she has a crush on you," she hesitantly mentioned.

Wondering why the blonde chose to admit that puzzled Dara. However, she quickly decided to nip any notions of her and Shelby before the idea flourished in Elisabeth's mind. "Yeah, well, she's too much woman for me," she joked. "I'm looking for a more serious kind of relationship myself. I'm at that place in my life where I'd like to sort of settle down with someone and start a family."

"I'm in the same place. I promised myself that after the election was over, I'd reconsider my goals. I need to find the right person though. That would make a big difference."

"I know the feeling. I know exactly what I want, but it's a matter of her coming to me," Dara confessed, risking a glance at the blonde. Their eyes met for a moment before she turned her gaze further down the pool.

Elisabeth didn't know how to respond to the comment. She knew when their eyes met that Dara was speaking of her just in the openness of her gaze, but she knew to offer any sort of assurance wouldn't be possible. An awkward moment passed before she decided to switch the direction of the conversation. "So, tell me. You still have an outstanding wager to make me dinner. When do you intend to follow through with that?" she joked as lightly as she could.

"Oh, I don't know. This week is really hectic for me. I'm giving a big speech for the American Jewish Committee on Thursday, and I haven't even finished writing it yet."

"What's it about?"

"Where Jews should stand on the election. The President's recent alignment with Israel really puts Jews in a predicament as far as their feelings about the candidates. We're traditionally Democratic by nature, but with the plight of Israel playing a part in the President's re-election campaign, it's become quite a challenge for Jews to decide on what matters most. My speech is about weighing the importance of the factors and hopefully still coming up with the Democratic approach. We can't lose the Jewish vote and still win."

"And how do you propose securing it so faithfully?"

"By comparing the President to a man all Jews hate."

Quirking her fair brows in worry, Elisabeth knew exactly what Dara was about to say. Nevertheless, she hoped the brunette would not actually do something so manipulative. "It isn't who I think it is, is it?"

"If you think it's Hitler, then you'd be right," the younger woman stated.

"Are you crazy? The President is nothing like Hitler."

"Oh no? Not the way I see it. He's exactly like Hitler in pre-World War II Germany. He's taken control of the country with a firm authority, claiming that he's a uniter of the people while trying to squash any dissension to his rule. This speech is about the equality for all people, Elisabeth, not just Jews. That's the point I'm trying to make. Hitler blamed Germany's problems on various groups, Jews, gays, gypsies, anti-Nazi activist. If they weren't Aryan, they were the source of discrimination. The President has aligned himself with the same policy. He blames gays for the fall of the institution of marriage. Well, more than fifty percent of marriages are ending in divorce not because of the fags in this country. We don't have anything to do with it, but he needs someone to blame. He couldn't find Bin Laden, so he turned his attentions to Iraq, thinking the people would just forget the sole purpose of his justification for war. The floundering economy is still a source of contention, but he can't give the people any indication of a realistic policy for correcting it. We have the largest budget deficit in almost twenty-five years, and he blames it on the Democrats. He deflects his failure onto others just the way Hitler did, and the Germans bought it just as the Americans are buying it. He claims to be a leader of the people while discriminating against everyone that isn't a WASP. He's just using the Jews for our money and influence. He doesn't really care much about Israel as he does winning the election. He can't persist on this course."

"You can't be serious about this, Dara! Hitler was a monster!" she exclaimed with a rising temper.

"As is the President! If I say he's a modern Hitler, they're going to pay attention! That's the point of the speech! To persuade them that regardless of where he stands on Israel, he's doing more harm domestically than good abroad! We're making enemies faster than making friends in the international community. He's taking us down a path of isolation in the same manner the Third Reich did to Germany. Am I saying he's going to start killing people? No! What I am saying is that he's going to extinguish any political opposition in a similar manner. A perfect example is that he's using 9-11 propaganda to secure a second term. His ads of Ground Zero and coffins draped in the flag are sending a signal to our country. At the same time, he's done all he can to keep similar images of Iraq out of our newspapers. He'll show the dead if it suits his purpose, but he won't let Americans see the true toll of the war righted to us by the Freedom of Information Act! Ask yourself why, Elisabeth! It's so he can stay in control and run our country into the ground! I won't stand for it! The man is a Nazi in my speech and so he will remain as long as I win supporters for the Democrats!"

Angrily getting up, Elisabeth stormed out of the pool. "What you're doing is sickening! Talk about a gross exploitation of people's opinion! You're manipulating people into thinking the President is a Nazi, and he isn't! He never will be!" she screamed.

With indignation coursing through her, Dara leapt from the pool after her. "Elisabeth, a person of you heritage should be able to recognize real evil when they see it! I know how you feel about Hitler! Why can't you see that the President is following a path of isolation and destruction in a similar manner?"

Turning cold eyes on the brunette, Elisabeth gave her a seething stare. "What did you just say?" she yelled. "Did you just make a Nazi reference about my family?"

"Elisabeth, neither one of us can change history! It is what it is! You can't change the fact that you were born into a family that supported Hitler! All you can do is see that you don't support someone with the same propensity!" Dara yelled with conviction.

The blonde started to tremble in rage and despondency at what the woman she loved had just said. Going with the infuriation she felt though, she shoved the taller woman. "Fuck you, Dara! You're a zealot more concerned with gaining votes than anything else! You don't care about anything other than defeating this man, and you certainly have no concern for those people you might hurt in the process! What you're doing is wrong, and I want nothing to do with it or you any more!" she shouted as tears came to her eyes. Unable to take another moment, the older woman turned and fled into the apartment, leaving a stunned brunette behind.

"What the hell did you just do to my sister?" Shelby angrily inquired. "I told you she was fragile emotionally."

Dara shook her head as she looked around at her guests. "Sorry about all that. Elisabeth and I have a tendency to get overly fervent in our debates," she apologized. Looking at Shelby though, she said, "Help me out here, Shelby. What just went wrong?"

The blonde shook her head and sighed loudly. "Why should I? You just insulted my family."

"That was not my intention, Shelby. I was merely making a political point."

"You have no idea the hurt you just caused Elisabeth, Dara."

"Then explain it to me, so I can go apologize to her," she requested.

Nodding her head, Shelby got out of her chair. "Fine. I'll tell you." They moved off away from everyone before the blonde looked at the attorney. "It's true that our grandfather was a Nazi. Even more our father was part of Hitler Youth, and he's kept his anti-Semitic feelings his entire life. When we were growing up, before our parents divorced and our dad moved back to Berlin, we were subjected to his doctrine. Fortunately it had completely the opposite effect he had intended. Both of us are adamantly supportive of the Jewish cause, Elisabeth more so than anyone else in our family. She hates the fact that she was born into a society she loathes, but you're right. We can't change history. We can't change the fact that our grandfather assisted in horrendous crimes. All we can do is make sure it never happens again. Elisabeth has spent her life in politics for the sole purpose of making sure discrimination of any sort never occurs, and you just said she was helping a Nazi stay in office. You just said she supported someone who discriminated in a similar manner to Hitler. I'm pissed, and it wasn't even directed at me."

"I'm so sorry, Shelby. I didn't realize how personally she really took stuff. I knew how she felt about Nazism, but I didn't truly appreciate the depth. I didn't mean to insult your family or either of you. It's hard for me to accept your family's past, but I'm willing to try to move beyond that to win her. I know the two of you have nothing to do with your grandfather's or your father's actions."

"Well, I'm not nearly as sensitive as she is about it. I've come to terms with my past, and I know I can't reconcile my grandfather's and father's sins, but she hasn't, and I hurt for her because of that. The truly grievous part of this is that you've now lost her over this. She will not forgive you for what you've just said. The woman she loved has just destroyed her. It's over, and you're both worse off for it."

"It can't be over, Shelby. I can't lose her, not when we've come this far. I love her."

"Then you better get in there and try to apologize. Your efforts will probably be in vain, but then you can at least say you tried, and then the downfall of your relationship will be on her head."

Knowing that she had to try, Dara went up to her apartment. She knew she had to try to make things right with the older woman in any way she could. Opening the door she stepped inside and called the blonde's name. Hearing talking coming from her study, she moved in that direction. Standing in the open doorway, she saw Elisabeth standing in the middle of the room, looking out the window, oblivious to her presence. The blonde was on her cell phone, talking and crying to the person on the other end of the line.

Elisabeth tried to keep her emotions under control, but she hurt so badly at the confrontation she and Dara had just had. "Are you sure you're all right?" the voice on the other end of the phone inquired.

"I'll be fine, sir. You just caught me at a bad time."

"Anythin' I cain do to help?"

"No, Mr. President, but thank you anyway. That's sweet of you to ask. You just have an uncanny ability to call when I'm not doing so well, but I assure you that I'll get over it soon."

"Well, I was actually callin' for a reason. I need to see ya tomorrow at the Oval Office, ten in the morning alone. Cain you make it?"

"Yes, I'm available for you."

"Good. There's somethin' we need to discuss."

"Yes, sir."

"Don't you worry now. Everythin' will be fine. You'll see."

"Thank you, Mr. President."

"You know, are ya ever gonna start to call me by my real name? I asked you several times already."

Sighing into the phone, Elisabeth said, "Very well, George. Now I'm sure you have some obligation to get to today."

"I do, but this call was more important. I look forward to seein' ya tomorrow, Elisabeth."

"I look forward to our time too, George. See you then," she answered, knowing that regardless of how she felt at the moment, she still had a job to do. She was intrigued at the development of him requesting her presence alone. They had never done that before, she wondered what he wanted to discuss.

When the conversation was over, Elisabeth closed her phone and then turned away from the window. Seeing Dara standing in the doorway, she jumped in surprise. "How long have you been standing there?" she asked in irritation.

"Long enough. I understand now. I can't believe I didn't put it together on my own. You and the President have a relationship."

"What we have is none of your concern, Dara," she quipped indignantly.

"Are you sleeping with him?" the brunette asked, more in jealousy than curiosity.

"That's none of your business."

"It's the people's business if the President is having an affair. People have a right to know."

"No, they don't."

"The Republicans made sure of that when they impeached Clinton. If you are involved with him, I'd like to know before I take this to the DNC. It will get ugly."

"Do whatever you think you have to in order to win those votes, Dara. As far as I'm concerned, we have nothing left to say to each other."

"Well, if that's the case, then you better be going."

"I'm just collecting my things," the blonde informed, picking up her bag.

Knowing she had one chance at making things right again and that she was blowing it, Dara said, "Just one thing before you go, Elisabeth."

"What's that?"

The tall woman sighed. "I just wanted you to know how sorry I was for what I said outside. I didn't mean to infer things about your family or you. Shelby explained why you take this stuff so personally, and I understand it. I take it personally too, because I had family die at the hands of the Reich. It's the reason that I'm in politics. I don't ever want that to happen again to anyone, and I get so afraid when I see leaders move in a direction of discrimination. That's why I'm so overly ambitious with this election. However, my feelings for those politicians have nothing to do with my feelings for you. Neither of us can change the families into which we were born. It's a part of us, but it doesn't have to define us. You can't atone for your grandfather's or your father's transgressions, only they can, and furthermore, I wouldn't want you to try. You are your own woman, Elisabeth, and I know in my heart you believe in the betterment of our country. You wouldn't be in politics if you didn't think you could make a difference. We don't support the same man, and we never will. You're going to do whatever you have to in order to get your candidate elected as am I. That alone makes a friendship between us difficult, but I still would like to have one. Shelby told me that you would probably never find it in your heart to forgive me much less desire my company after what I said, but I hope you can at least accept my apology and know that I am always here if you ever would like to try again," she stated in soft sincerity.

Looking at the woman she loved, Elisabeth was torn as to her feelings. She had never been hurt so badly by someone she cared about so much. Not even Suzanne had come close to the pain Dara had bestowed. A broken heart was nothing compared to what had just transpired. Not knowing what to say, the blonde's tears began again as she mumbled, "I have to go."

The younger woman watched the woman she loved walk out of her house. When she was alone she too started to cry as the realization that she just demolished the relationship she had been nurturing for three months came upon her. She had single-handedly destroyed what she had fought so hard to build, regardless of how much both women had resisted at first.

The next day Elisabeth went to the White House as she had promised the President. She hadn't sleep much the night before and knew she looked terrible for their meeting. Nevertheless, she knew she had to focus on the task at hand. She figured the President had requested her presence in order to share some sensitive information with her, so she needed to be at peak performance in her sincerity of his best interest, even though at the moment all she truly wanted was to give up her pursuit and go back to her life before she had started leaking information to the DNC. The web had gotten too complicated when Dara had entered the picture, and now Elisabeth didn't even know how she felt about anything any longer. Being escorted into the Oval Office, the blonde put on the best professional face she could. The President was sitting behind his desk but stood as she entered and then requested they be left alone. He moved across the room to her with a cautious countenance.

Regarding her for a moment, he mentioned, "You don't look well rested, Elisabeth."

"No, sir," she answered but was completely taken by surprise when his hand moved from his side and cupped her face. He had never touched her before, and it left her with a sense of confusion and vulnerability. She always knew she ran the risk of enticing the man she was secretly trying to topple to a point of a physical relationship, and at the moment of that discovery she had been prepared to make any sacrifice, even that of her own career, if meant taking him out of his seat of power. However, now as he initiated the contact, it only left her with sadness, because it only made her think of her desires for Dara's hand to rest in the same place. Instantly her blue eyes began to tear.

"Oh, don't cry, my dear," he softly said, bringing his other arm around her body. As soon as he did that, Elisabeth only started to cry harder as she instinctively leaned into his body. He held her a moment as his hand trailed comfortingly through her blonde hair. "It'll be all right, Elisabeth. I'll take care of you," he whispered, kissing her on the top of the head. The blonde looked up into his face. For a moment they just gazed at each other, their faces mere inches apart. This was the moment for which she had been preparing herself, because it would ensure his downfall if he fell to the temptation. Thinking of Dara Elisabeth thought of the cause for which both of them strived, the ruin of the most powerful man in the world, and mentally prepared herself for the intimacy she was sure to follow.

However, after a moment he shook his head slowly. "You know, I'd hardly be a man if I told ya this wasn't temptin', but I know somethin' about ya that stops me from this," he said, releasing her from his embrace. However, he didn't move out of her personal space.

"What's that, Mr. President?"

"You're a lesbian."

Horrified that he knew such a thing about her when so few people did, she quickly refuted it defensively. "I am not, sir. What ever gave you such an idea?"

"Elisabeth, it's okay. I like that you're a lesbian."

"But I'm not."

"Not according to my sources."

"Your sources? What do you mean?" she questioned.

"My sources tell me that you're in a relationship with a Dara Rosenthal. She works for the HRC apparently. You were with her at The Greenbrier a few weekends ago."

"You investigated me? Why did you do such a thing?"

He shrugged. "Because I was jealous," he admitted. "I thought we could have somethin' more than a professional relationship, but once I found out about Dara, I realized what an opportunity this was. I need you, Elisabeth, now more than ever."

"Mr. President, I am not in a relationship with Dara. We're old friends. We've know each other for years. My best friend went to undergrad with her, and then we both went to Yale Law together. We are not having a relationship."

"And what of The Greenbrier?"

"We were there together. That's true, but it was just us hanging out as friends."

He looked discouraged at the news. "This is the absolute truth?"

"Yes, sir. Dara and I are not involved."

"Shoot. That spoils everythin'," he mumbled.

"Why? I thought you'd be relieved."

"Well, in a way I am," he confessed. "But I was hopin' to use you for a better purpose. I need gay votes, and I had hoped that if you were a lesbian you'd be able to brin' them back to the right. I can't afford to lose any ground here. The race is tight as it is."

"This is about votes? You wanted to out me for votes?" she inquired incredulously.

"Well, yes, but now I don't have that option. Tell me somethin' else, Elisabeth. This friend of yours, Dara Rosenthal, has been making quite a stir from the way I hear it. She's quite the left-wing activist."

"Yes, sir. That's true."

"You two don't discuss business, do you?" he asked seriously.

"Not at all. We don't discuss politics. Both of us so strongly believe in the opposite of the other that the topic is off limits."

He nodded. "Elisabeth, I need help here. I need these votes. How do I get them?"

"The only way to get them is to support a gay marriage initiative, and since you can't do that, you're going to have to do without them. You'll have to find votes elsewhere."

"That's not the answer that I wanted."

"Well, it's the truth, sir."

He looked around his office for a moment before meeting her eyes again. "Elisabeth, you know this is a very sensitive time in the election for me. I need your absolute loyalty. Promise me that you will not share anythin' with anyone of what we discussed today."

"I would never do that, Mr. President. You have my total faithfulness," she stated as neutrally as she could.

"Good. You will be rewarded when I win. I pledge that to you," he said as his arms came around her body again.

Looking into his eyes, the blonde knew this truly was the moment she had been prepared for since she started her mission. Knowing she had to go through with it, especially having denied her feelings for Dara, Elisabeth closed her eyes as he leaned toward her. He pulled her closer, so their bodies meshed firmly as their mouths came together in a sensuous lock. Keeping her body from physically convulsing at the repulsive act in which she was participating, she simply waited until the kiss had come to its natural conclusion before stepping out of his arms.

"Well, I'm sure you have quite an agenda today, so I should leave you to it," she said with a smile she didn't feel.

"All right. Thank you for comin'. This talk certainly cleared some things up for me."

"You're welcome, Mr. President. Have a good rest of the day."

"You too, Elisabeth," he replied as she moved toward the door to escort herself from the office.

She kept her emotions to herself until she was back on the busy street alone. It was only then that she contemplated the weight of what had just taken place. She had trapped him and now there was only the delivery to the DNC. His indiscretion would be for the world to know once Chad had decided on an appropriate course of action. Immediately calling him on her cell phone she relayed her news.

He was interested but less than pleased that the fall woman had been Elisabeth. "Sweetie, you know I care about you. If this comes out, I'm worried your own career could be over before it's come to fruition," he said.

"Chad, I did this for the sake of the party. You knew I was willing to sacrifice everything to get this man."

"But what about Dara? How is she going to take it?"

"What do you mean? Why does she even come into play?"

"Well, you're in a relationship. She's going to suffer some public humiliation as are you."

"Why does everyone keep saying that? Dara and I are not in a relationship."

"Well, you fooled me then. Elisabeth, I don't want to bring down the President on your back. As much as I would love to get him on something like this, the fact that it's you puts me in a quandary."

"Chad, this is what you need to defeat this man, and I'm offering it to you freely. Now if you won't take it, I know of someone who will put it to use, and I'm on my way there now. You think about it, and I'll call you back in an hour."

"Elisabeth, you think about it. Your life will be over," he pressed.

"I've lost Dara, Chad. My life is already over. At least with my sacrifice I can make a difference. Take what I'm offering, or I'll give it to someone else who will."

"Fine. Let me think about it."

"Good. I'll call you in an hour," the blonde said before hanging up her phone and hailing a cab.

Over at the brunette's office, Dara had just answered a call from Chad Peterson. "Chad, hi. To what do I owe such a call?" she asked.

"Hello, Dara. I'm sorry to disturb you, but I had something urgent to discuss. Have you spoken to Elisabeth Gunter today?"

"No. I haven't. I haven't seen her since yesterday," she answered in confusion. "Why?"

"I have reason to believe she's on her way to your office as we speak. She called me saying she had some information about the President and that if I didn't want to capitalize on it, she would take it to someone who would. Given your relationship I thought of you."

"Our relationship? We have no relationship. We were friends at one time, but that is not the case any longer. Why would Elisabeth Gunter call you? And even more, why would you take her call?" she questioned.

"Only Elisabeth can answer that, Dara. It's not my place. All I can say is that she's not all that she seems. Please listen to whatever she has to say. Weigh it carefully and then report back to me. I'm asking you this as a favor. She said she'd give me an hour to contemplate her offer, but I need another opinion. Am I able to count on you?"

"Certainly, Chad. I'm your woman, but are you sure she's coming to me?"

"No doubt in my mind."

"All right. I'll get back to you as soon as possible."

Hanging up the phone, Dara felt more confused than ever. The fact that Elisabeth and the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee had been involved in a phone conversation left her bewildered. Hoping that Chad was right about the blonde's intentions, she began to pace her office nervously. Suddenly she was being dragged into a political drama that she hadn't imagined, which excited her, but the fact that it included the woman she loved left her anxious.

Fifteen minutes later the receptionist buzzed her and announced Elisabeth's presence. Heading to the lobby, Dara tried to take a deep breath to calm herself. When she saw the blonde, she could tell something was wrong, but she didn't ask. Instead she merely greeted the older attorney politely and then suggested they go to her office to talk.

"You don't seem surprised to see me," the shorter woman mentioned.

"Well, I am. After yesterday I wasn't sure I'd ever see you again. Elisabeth, I can't tell you how sorry I am for what I said about your family," she apologized again.

The blonde nodded. Knowing that Dara was sincere, she answered, "I know, Dara. I spent most of the night thinking about it. We come from different backgrounds, but we both feel so strongly about the preservation of equality and the extinction of discrimination."

The younger woman nodded her head in understanding. "So, are we still friends?" hesitantly she inquired.

Elisabeth sighed. "I'm not sure that's possible, Dara."

Feeling her heart sinking, the taller woman questioned, "Why not?"

"Because you don't know the real me and I'm not sure you would like the real me."

"Try me. I'm willing to accept just about anything."

"Yesterday you accused me of having an affair with the President. As of today that statement could be accurate."

"What? What are you saying?"

"I've had sexual interaction with the President," she confessed.

Dara could feel her heart ripping, but she kept a strong face. "And you're telling me about this? Why?" she asked, taking a seat on the edge of her desk.

Elisabeth stepped toward the brunette and leaned down so they were on eye level. Staring into dark eyes, she replied, "Because I want you to bring him down."

"Bring him down? I don't understand, Elisabeth. You work for the guy on his re-election campaign. Why would you want him to lose?"

"Dara, the man is a monster, and I've spent the last six years of my life trying to ruin the Republican Party from the inside out. When he took office, I knew I had to put a stop to it anyway I could. I had a contact in the Democratic party to help me figure out the best way to help bring him down."

"Chad Peterson," the brunette supplied as the pieces started to fall into place in her brain.

"Chad is a friend of my mother's, has been for decades."

"Did he put you up to this? Did he convince you to spy on the Republicans?"

"No. It was completely my idea. I used to be a staunch Republican. I believed in the party, but that all changed when I saw what was happening to Clinton during the Monica Lewinsky investigation and impeachment. I knew then they were no longer in touch with the people. They were bitter old men who just wanted to draw blood for the sake of ruining a President that was doing so much for our country. Then when the current President started messing with pro-choice rights, I knew it was time to make a change."

"So, let me get this straight. Now you've entrapped the current President into a sexual relationship, and you want me to take the information to the people."

"It's what you do best."

"What about you, Elisabeth? You do understand that if I do this, you're going to go down with the ship. Your life will be over. Your career will be finished. Are you willing to walk away from everything for this?"

The blonde nodded. "I'd sacrifice everything for this election, Dara. It will alter the course of our country's history. I have the information you need, and I want you to use it."

Gazing at the blonde, Dara contemplated the offer. She knew what the blonde was proposing had potential ramifications for the betterment of the Democratic cause, which greatly intrigued her. However, the fact remained that Elisabeth was at the center of the possible media storm. She didn't want the shorter woman to suffer for what she had done.

Standing up Dara started to pace her office. "Elisabeth, you've completely baffled me. I don't know what to make of this. All this time I thought you were one of them, and now you're telling me we've been on the same side all this time."

"That's right."

"Why didn't you say anything?"

"I couldn't. I knew it had to be completely secretive. Chad is the only other person that knows."

The younger woman shook her head. "Elisabeth, I hope you understand that I'm not sure I can believe what you're telling me. You've been deceitful with me since we've met. How do I know this isn't a ploy? I take gossip like this to the media and have it be wrong. That would hurt me politically. It would hurt the party."

"I know that, Dara, but it's the truth."

Turning to look at the older woman, the taller woman questioned, "How much have you told Chad?"

"Just that I have information to bring down the President. I didn't get into the specifics."

"What are the specifics? Exactly what kind of interaction did you and the President have?" she inquired stoically.

Elisabeth looked at the woman she still had feelings for, even after all they had been through and hesitated in answer. She knew she would have to confess to Dara what she had done, but at the same time, she felt guilty like she was confessing a sin to a lover. "We kissed," she answered.

Nodding her head, the brunette took in the information. It hurt to hear the words coming from the blonde, but she didn't let that show. Instead she pretended to think on the admission. "How far are you willing to go to bring him down, Elisabeth?"

"I'd do anything."

"Anything? Would you sleep with the man?"

"If I could guarantee the success of the Democratic Party with that action, I would, Dara."

"And it wouldn't bother you to have relations with someone you hated?"

"Don't get me wrong. It would bother me. It would weigh on my conscience, Dara, but some things are worth the sacrifice."

"Even if it goes against your very nature?" Dara asked quietly, wondering to what lengths the older woman would really go to in order to secure the election.

"What kind of question is that? What are you really asking me?" Elisabeth inquired in confusion.

Deciding to come clean about some of the things she knew about the blonde, Dara answered, "Elisabeth, I know about Suzanne. I know that you loved her and were completely devoted to her. You are interested in women, not men. How can you so easily turn your back on that to lure a man to his political death?"

At the mention of her ex-lover's name, Elisabeth gasped. "Who told you?"

"I remembered. Suzanne and I went to a small school, and I started asking questions of my old buddies. I remember you, Elisabeth, a fresh faced twenty-one year old with love in your bright eyes. I recall you and Suzanne together around campus. You were in love, weren't you?"

The blonde nodded her head slowly. "I was, Dara. I was young and in love for the first time in my life. I thought Suzanne and I would be together forever," she admitted as tears came to her eyes. "But she left me."

"And you lost faith in women?"

Shaking her head, the shorter woman said, "I lost faith in love."

"I know what that's like. I lost it too somewhere along the line. I started jumping from bed to bed looking for a substitute, but I never denied who I was. Tell me the truth now. Do you still have hope of finding a woman to be your soul mate?"

"I had lost that feeling a long time ago, but in meeting you, I've realized that maybe it's still possible. I look at you, Dara, and I want to have the life you have, the freedom to be who you are and to love who you want."

Moving back to the edge of her desk, Dara sat and inquired, "Was that a yes?"

"It was a yes I suppose. What about you? Do you still have hope?"

Smiling demurely Dara answered, "I had lost it until I met you, Elisabeth. However, somewhere in the midst of fighting with you and us having a tentative friendship, I've realized I found it again." Hesitating for a moment, the brunette decided to be forthright about her feelings. Tentatively reaching for the blonde and wrapping an experimental arm around her waist, she confessed, "Elisabeth, I found it in you. I fell in love with the obnoxious Republican, deeply in love in a way that I never have. As much as I hated your politics, I couldn't help myself. You captivated me as much with your forceful party line rhetoric as with your emotional vulnerability. That's why it pains me so much to think that same woman would throw her self-being out just to bring down my sworn enemy. Elisabeth, I have to be honest with you. I'd rather have the President win another four years than destroy the woman I love."

Elisabeth felt her knees weaken at Dara's words. She closed her eyes for a moment as she allowed the admission to settle in her heart. "You love me?" she whispered, eyes still closed afraid the brunette would be gone if she opened them again.

"I do love you," Dara replied, wrapping her other arm around the blonde. She pulled the older woman closer, so she was standing between her legs. Their bodies brushed softly. "I love you, Elisabeth, so I can't do what you're asking of me. I can't take this information to anyone. Even more I can't bear the thought of that man having his way with the woman I adore, the woman I want." The blonde blushed at the taller woman's words. "Elisabeth, please tell me if you feel anything for me."

Finally opening her blue eyes, Elisabeth smiled down at the younger attorney. "I love you, Dara. I've loved you since you kissed me at the HRC banquet," she acknowledged.

Returning the smile the older woman was giving, the brunette cupped Elisabeth's face in her hand. Elisabeth felt her body temperature rise at the touch. Earlier she had imagined the gesture, and now it was really happening. "I've waited so long to hear that. I wanted it to be true," the younger woman stated.

"It's the absolute truth, Dara."

Before anything else could be said, the intercom on Dara's phone buzzed, and the receptionist announced that Chad Peterson was on the phone. "I need to take this," she said, standing up and moving to her chair.

"Should I go?"

"No. We're definitely not finished," she responded with a smile. Picking up the phone she said, "Chad, hi. I was going to call you back in a few minutes. You were right. Elisabeth came straight here and is standing in my office right now."

"Well then? What's going on?"

"I don't think we've decided yet. I'm going to put you on speaker, so we can all talk about it if you don't mind." Doing just that Dara stood on one side of the desk while Elisabeth on the other.

"Elisabeth," Chad began.

"I'm here, Chad. Dara and I have been talking about the information I had."

"And?"

"I don't want to use it, Chad," Dara stated.

"Good, neither do I. Elisabeth, I can't let you be the fall person for this," the chairman explained.

"It's okay, Chad. Dara just told me something that changed how I felt about it as well."

"As long as you're not going through with this, that's all that matters to me."

"Actually, I was just thinking that maybe Elisabeth could continue on course. I mean not with the physical relationship part but stay with gathering information. That's if she wants to anyway," Dara proposed.

"It's completely up to you, Elisabeth."

"I'm going to have to I think about it. If I left now the President would be suspicious. The key is to back out of this relationship part in a way that doesn't cut me off from him."

"Well, I'm sure you'll think of something. All I needed was reassurance that you were not going to proceed with this course of action."

"Not at this time, Chad."

"Good. Dara, thank you for whatever you said. I care about Elisabeth like she was my own daughter."

"I care about her too, Chad. We have a conversation of our own to continue now."

"Very well. In the event you do come up with something else, I look forward to hearing it, Elisabeth. Talk to you two later."

Once he had hung up, Dara looked at the older woman. Moving back to the blonde's side of the desk, she took a seat again and proceeded to wrap the shorter woman in her arms once more. "Well, what were we discussing before we were interrupted?"

Blushing shyly Elisabeth replied, "I was hoping that you were about to kiss me."

"And I was going to," the brunette answered softly. Cupping the blonde's face in her hand, she leaned in and gently pressed her lips to Elisabeth's. The tiniest of whimpers escaped the older woman at the feeling as she brought her arms around Dara's neck. It was a sweet kiss, full of innocence and tenderness. Breaking away slightly Dara whispered, "Are you okay with this?"

"I've wanted you for so long," the blonde replied as she went in a second time, allowing her true emotions to finally pour forth.

The taller woman groaned as their tongues met. Suddenly things began to move in a more intimate direction as both of them started to delve deeper, probing each other's mouths as if it was the last kiss they would ever share. Neither wanted to break it. Dara's hands roamed over the blonde's back, feeling the material of the older woman's navy dress. Elisabeth ran her hands through the dark hair she had dreamed about for months as they finally had to pull away for air.

"I thought this would never happen, Elisabeth. Since the moment we met, it's all I've thought about."

"It seems like such a long time ago," Elisabeth mumbled, caressing Dara's face lovingly.

Smiling at her the younger attorney mentioned, "As much as I would like to keep doing this, we do have something serious we were discussing."

"I know. What to do about the President. Any ideas?"

"As Chad said, it's completely up to you. I don't want to see you get hurt, Elisabeth. This isn't child's play. People get assassinated over this kind of sedition. The last thing I want is for you to end up in the Potomac River."

"Well, I'm going to have to figure out a way to fend off advances while keeping the President's confidence."

"Are you sure he has confidence in you, or do you think it was your looks that intrigued him all along?"

"I hadn't thought about that. I guess we'll see. I should probably get going. I haven't even gone to the office today. I should at least stop by and do some work."

Nodding her head Dara stood. Smiling down at the blonde, she couldn't help herself and embraced her again. "This really is like a dream," she confessed.

"Except this is actually real."

Leaning down the brunette kissed the older woman gently. "I wish you didn't have to go."

"I'll call you tonight," Elisabeth promised, regretfully pulling away from the woman she loved.

"Do you have to work this weekend? I believe I still owe you dinner at my place."

"Oh, so now you want to make me dinner?" the shorter woman teased. "Fine. I'm pretty sure I'm available on Saturday, but I'll let you know for certain later."

"Sounds good. I can't wait."

"Neither can I," the older woman admitted. "Have a good rest of the day."

"You too, beautiful. Talk to you later."

*******************************************************************

That Saturday night Dara eagerly awaited Elisabeth's arrival. Since that Tuesday when the relationship between them took an unexpected but wonderful turn, the younger woman couldn't stop thinking about being alone with the blonde. She couldn't wait to hold her and touch her without the fear of the shorter woman's reaction.

Around seven that evening, Dara was just putting the finishing touches on dinner when she heard the doorbell of her parents' door. Rushing to it she prepared a smile before pulling it open to see Elisabeth. The older woman was dressed casually in a pair of long khaki shorts and pastel blue cotton top. On her feet she wore stylish sandals, and her hair was pulled away from her face with sunglasses.

"Wow. You look incredible," the brunette stated, letting her eyes roam freely.

Elisabeth blushed. "Thank you. You look great too."

"Thanks. Come on in. Sorry we had to change locations. Leah begged me to move our dinner up here. She said she was having some special company and wanted privacy. It's kind of weird actually, because she's never cared about me being around her dates before."

Nodding her head, Elisabeth mentioned, "Curious you say that. I was just about to ask you what my sister's car was doing in the driveway."

Dara stepped outside to see for herself. "I don't believe it. She had me move our dinner, so she could have Shelby over. That's her hot date?"

"You don't actually think it's a date, do you? I mean, neither one of them is gay."

"But they're both curious. I suppose it makes sense. I know both of them want to know what it's like, and they did hit it off at the party on Monday. As long as Shelby doesn't turn my sister into more of a slut that she already is, I'll be okay with their relationship," Dara teased.

"Shelby? What about Leah? She was the one trying to put the moves on my sister at the party," Elisabeth joked.

"Well, I guess if we hear a ruckus going on later we'll know what they're doing. However, enough about our free-spirited siblings. Come into the house and make yourself comfortable," the younger attorney suggested, taking the blonde by the hand. Together they made their way into the kitchen. "What can I get you to drink?"

"What are you serving?"

"Well, let's see. We have ice tea, Lemonade, spring water, sodas, wine. Anything sound good?"

"What are you having?"

"I decided to break into the white wine myself while I was cooking."

"Then that's what I'll have as well," the older woman answered with a smile as she took a seat on a bar stool at the island.

Dara got the beverage, placing it down in front of the blonde before going back to the refrigerator for the appetizers. She set an intricately designed plate of assorted cheeses and fruit down in front of her guest before asking, "Do you have a preference for salad dressing?"

"Not really. Whatever you have is fine. This is quite an impressive spread. Did you make this yourself?"

"Yeah. I know it's hard to believe, but I'm quite a good cook actually. Why else would I want to cook you dinner?"

"You're cooking because you lost," the older attorney teased.

"But how do you know that I didn't do that on purpose, so I could have you here?"

"You wouldn't throw a game."

"How can you be sure? After all, I was secretly lusting after you and wanted a reason to get you alone in the privacy of my home," she taunted.

Elisabeth looked at her date for a moment as she considered what was said. "I suppose it's possible, but I'd prefer to think I beat you fairly."

Smiling at the smaller woman, Dara answered, "Then think what you will."

Taking some of the cheese from the plate, Elisabeth inquired, "So how did that speech of yours go for the American Jewish Committee?"

"It went well I think. I was writing it until that day though. So much was going on politically with Iraqi prisoner abuse and the bombings in Gaza that there was just so much I wanted to add. I think I made my point though. I hope I did anyway."

"Did you still make President Minion out to be the Nazi you had originally planned?"

"I backed off on that a little. I mean Secretary Defense Lemon really gave me much more fodder, especially with the way he has handled the abuse scandal. Going to Baghdad and then setting some of the detainees free from Abu Ghraib prison didn't sit right with me. I mean why hold them in the first place if they didn't pose a threat and why let them go if they did pose a threat simply because of abuse? Something isn't right with the way things are being handled. The President has this time line of a June 30th handover date, and it's just not reasonable. There's no way we can give the government back by then and expect it to thrive. On the other hand, our troops staying there only causes more violence. That idiot has put us in this situation, and there is no good resolution. It's cost every international incumbent politician that has supported the effort his office. I just hope that holds true when it comes to our own election."

"One can always hope," the blonde seconded, taking a sip of her wine.

Dara cracked a smile at her date. "You know, now that we've come clean about each other's stance, does that mean there aren't going to be any more heated debates? I mean I just called your boss an idiot."

"I know, and I happen to agree with you. I'm glad you backed off on the Minion-Hitler analogy. As much as I don't like the man, I still thought it was a little too far."

The taller woman shrugged. "It's all about the presentation and moving people to action. If a speech can do that, then it's a success. That's all I wanted to accomplish. Now tell me. How are things with you and George? Anything happen since Tuesday?"

"No. There hasn't been much opportunity though. I still haven't thought of a good way to side-step his advances yet, but I figured I'd deal with them as they arose. He might be the idiot you think he is, but I think I know him well enough that he'll take no for an answer. I already have him on the kiss. That's enough to hurt him. Forcing himself on me would certainly not go over well."

"Not at all. I'd have to kick his haughty middle-aged ass," the brunette mentioned.

"I'd love to see that," the blonde stated with a laugh. Changing the subject she asked, "Do you need help with anything?"

"I'm just about finished actually. Thanks though." Dara put the last touches on their salads before picking them up to take them to the table. However, as soon as she turned, she found herself a lot closer to her favorite blonde than moments before as Elisabeth moved into her personal space.

Caressing the younger woman's hands, the older attorney said, "Here. Let me take those."

Both of them made their way to the table that had already been set for the evening. Dara pulled the older woman's chair out for her before taking her own. Raising her glass in toast, she said, "Thanks for coming over."

"Thanks for finally asking." Taking a bite of the salad, she mentioned, "This is fabulous."

"Thank you. I'm glad you like it."

"So, tell me something, Dara. Once this election is over, what are your plans?"

"Oh, I don't know if I really have any set plans. Why? Do you?"

The blonde shrugged. "I guess I'm going to go back to the DOJ. Although I promised myself that after all this was over I'd reevaluate my life goals."

"Which are?"

"Finding someone, settling down."

"That sounds good. I've been thinking that way myself, but my political aspirations keep me from doing that just yet. I'm not quite settled on my path to greatness," she teased.

"What path is that exactly?"

"Well, I always wanted to be the governor of Maryland, and I also wanted to be in the U.S. Senate. Right now I'm contemplating how to make that happen. I think I need to start with running for Senate on the state level to get myself into the system. The HRC said they would help fund my campaign when I was ready."

"And are you ready to make that move?"

"Not quite. I'm still gathering support where I can find it. I'm also waiting for the incumbent in my district to move on, which should be in another year or so. I think by the next election I might be a prospective candidate."

"Wow, that would be great. I'd love to help you with your campaign if you'd like."

"That could be interesting. I don't know what kind of message it sends to have a Minion campaigner on my own campaign, but it'll probably be water under the political bridge by then."

"Well, I think you could forgo my party line for my experience," Elisabeth challenged.

"I think I could as well. But back to you. After the campaign it's back to the DOJ. Then what?"

"I don't know. I haven't quite given up on my domestic dreams yet of getting married and having children, but I don't want to do that until I meet the right person. Fortunately a very good candidate did present herself," she teased, lightly touching Dara on the arm.

"Well, I know I look forward to us having some time together after November. Right now I'm finding it difficult to compete for time with the most powerful man in the world. Seems like all I really want to do is spend time with you, and you're off with George of the Jungle."

"I feel the same way," the older woman replied. "I really can't wait for it to be all over. After all the dust has settled, I hope that we can really get a chance to spend time getting to know each other as well as I think we both would like."

Taking a hold of the blonde's hand, the taller woman brought it to her mouth and kissed the back of it softly. Unable to control herself, she brushed the back of Elisabeth's hand against her own cheek. The older woman smiled as she cupped Dara's face in her hand. "I think I'd like to know you a lot better right now," she admitted. "It's just too bad that we can't get serious about this until the election is over."

Elisabeth gave a faint nod, but she knew just by looking at the younger woman they both were not going to be able to restrain themselves from venturing further. "You know, Dara, I've been hurt before, and I never really thought I'd be able to trust someone or love someone else that way again, but you make me feel so safe. Even with Suzanne, I never felt this way."

"I've never felt like this either, Elisabeth. From the moment I saw you on The Mall, I wanted to know you desperately. Who knew I would be lucky enough to get that chance?" she questioned as caressed the blonde's hand she still held. After a moment of just gazing into each other's eyes, the brunette said, "I have to admit something to you, Elisabeth. I don't want to scare you, but I want to be absolutely honest."

"What is it?" hesitantly the older woman inquired, unsure of what her beloved was about to say. She hoped it wasn't anything that would alter her feelings.

Dara scooted her chair closer to her date and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. Sighing she stated, "Shelby and I have been in cahoots with each other regarding you. In fact, she told me how you really felt about me."

The older woman blushed and looked away. "That bitch. I'm going to kill her," she whispered uncomfortably.

Dara reached for Elisabeth's face, cupping it gently and bringing their gazes back together. "Please don't. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't know how you felt. I really wasn't sure if you even liked me, but I was desperately pining after you."

"When did she tell you?"

"That night I slept on the couch at your house. You had gone to a meeting, and Shelby and I drank and swapped gossip. She told me after putting me through the grand inquisition about my feelings for you."

"What did she tell you?"

"Just that the interest was returned and that you did like me in the same way."

The blonde shook her head. "That doesn't sound like my sister. She's the type to tell all."

"She was just trying to help both of us."

"So you knew about all this before we went to The Greenbrier?" Dara nodded her head. "Oh, God. Now I am embarrassed," she confessed.

"Why?"

"That night."

"What about it?"

"You know what I'm talking about, Dara."

The taller woman nodded. "I knew you were nervous, but I was nervous too. I didn't want to do or say the wrong thing and scare you. You were just so vulnerable, and I just wanted to console you. However, it was quite difficult to keep my hands to myself," she conceded. "And now that we both know the truth, it's even harder. I can't stop thinking about kissing you senseless," she added softly, leaning in to catch her date's lips in a kiss.

Both of them moaned as their mouths came together. This kiss was different than the ones they had shared earlier in the week. Whereas those were comforting and assuring, this one was laced with primal lust as their tongues met slowly at first but then with growing ferocity. Elisabeth felt her head spinning as she pulled Dara closer, wrapping her arms around the brunette's neck. She couldn't remember the last time she had ever been kissed in such a manner. Her body instantly ignited into an inferno as heat began to permeate through her entire being. Dara was relentless with her oral assault, breaking for air only briefly before diving in again to consume the blonde's lips.

The younger woman could feel her control beginning to wane as she felt her date pulling her even closer as the moments passed. It was clear Elisabeth wanted this as much as she did. With her right arm still around the blonde's shoulders, her left went to the older woman's waist. Enticingly she caressed under the hem of Elisabeth's top, her hand finally able to touch the soft skin she had fantasized about for months.

Feeling Dara's left hand slowly tracing a pattern along her bare hip and up her side, Elisabeth began to tremor in nervous ardor. She had dreamed of the younger woman's touch so many times. When the brunette's mouth broke from hers and began to travel down her neck, Elisabeth could only moan in need. This was what she wanted. Those lips that spoke such intelligent controversial opinions now adored her body, and it was heavenly. Feeling the attorney's left hand venture over the contour of her breast, the blonde cried out lightly but quickly realized things were getting out of control. Reluctantly she put her hand on the brunette's left forearm and gently removed Dara's hand from under her clothes.

Blue eyes met dark ones. Unsure of whether she had done something wrong, the younger woman quickly started to apologize. "I'm so sorry, Elisabeth. I don't mean to be pushing you."

"No, it's okay, Dara. You're not pushing me. I want the same thing," she affirmed breathlessly. "I just think we should slow things down a little."

"You're right. I'm sorry."

Pulling the younger woman into a tight embrace, the blonde pressed her flush cheek to Dara's and took a deep breath in an effort to compose herself. "Stop apologizing. You didn't do anything I didn't want you to do. It's just there are so many reasons we shouldn't be doing this right now. Jobs aside, I haven't been in a relationship for quite some time. As much as my feelings are there, I need to move slowly. I want to do this with you, and yet the idea of it scares me, because the last time I was in this position I was hurt so badly."

"I understand. I promise we'll take it at whatever pace you want," Dara vowed.

"Thank you. You're incredibly sweet, Dara. That's one of the reasons I love you as much as I do."

"I love you too, Elisabeth."

Looking into brown eyes, the shorter woman smiled. "I really do know that, Dara, and that makes me the happiest woman in the world. I don't want to lead you on. I swear to you that I have thought about this so many times, and I want to be with you in every way there is to be with someone. It's my fantasy," she admitted with a slight blush. "Us together. I want that. I just need time and a natural progression even though I'm dying for you."

Dara nodded. "That's fine, sweetheart. We'll go slowly." Holding each other for a moment more until they were both calmer, Dara moved her chair back in front of her food. Cracking a light smile, she joked to break the tension, "I guess I was asking a little much for our first date."

Elisabeth laughed. "I guess this is our official first date. However, we've already had dates in my heart."

"Oh yeah? Which ones would those be?" Dara asked in interest.

"I would consider that night we met at Dave and Busters to be our first date. The look on your face when you saw that guy talking to me was priceless. I loved how you intimidated him. Then you took off your shirt, and I wanted to just die. It was so sweet of you to put on that shirt I bought for you. At dinner I couldn't take my eyes off you. You just looked so sexy. Then at the movies when you were being a little shit and threatening to make our outing a date and try to kiss me, you had no idea how badly I wanted you to do just that."

The brunette laughed. "Sounds like we both were feeling it that night. I wanted to as well."

"The Greenbrier would have been our second date and what a fabulous event that was. That night I was so nervous, because I was feeling so strongly for you. Sleeping together almost put me over the edge, because I didn't think I'd be able to handle being that close to you."

"Me neither. It took all my self-control not to do anything but hold you, and even that was difficult."

"I know. I listened to you breathing. You were taking such measured breaths that I knew it was as hard for you as me, and I loved you even more for your restraint."

Taking the blonde's hand, Dara smiled. "You're sweet to me, Elisabeth. I just want to assure you of my love and respect. I know it's going to be quite some time for some reasons we can't even control before we can really be together, but I'll wait as long as we need to. You're worth every moment."

Blushing yet again, Elisabeth nodded her head. "So are you, Dara. Now we better eat this great dinner you prepared." Once dinner was over, the brunette and blonde made themselves comfortable on the living room sofa in front of the television. Both of them rested with their bare feet on the coffee table as they held hands. "So, any other surprises for me this evening?" Elisabeth inquired.

"Well, this is the part where I subject you to torture. At least all my friends think it's torture."

"Oh? And what might that be?"

Smiling at her girlfriend, the younger woman turned on the DVD player and TV. Instantly the screen came to life. "My Jodie Foster obsession," she admitted.

The shorter woman laughed lightly. "Oh. I knew there had to be a flaw somewhere. What is it with lesbians and Jodie Foster? Why is she everyone's favorite actress?"

"Because she's the quintessential lesbian. She's sexy, intelligent, and she has that voice that makes you so hot."

Laughing Elisabeth asked, "So what movie are you subjecting me to then?"

"Well, you have a choice between 'Panic Room' and 'Silence of the Lambs.' Those are my two favorites."

"Great. Both of them are scary. Fine. 'Silence of the Lambs' I suppose, but if I can't sleep tonight, I'm calling and keeping you awake with me," she teased.

"Don't worry. I'd be happy to stay up all night with you. It won't be so bad. You've seen it before, right?"

"Most of it but in pieces. I've never made it through the whole thing."

"Well, I'll be here to protect you. Nothing will happen while I'm around."

"Don't patronize me, Dara. I can handle a scary movie," she maintained.

"We'll see about that," the brunette responded, stretching her frame out along the couch. She patted a spot next to her. "Come here."

Elisabeth smiled at her girlfriend before lying down next to her. Immediately the brunette's arm came around her body. "This is nice. I could do this all night," she whispered.

"Yeah, well, that still doesn't get you out of the movie," Dara joked as she pressed the play button.

Over the course of the next hour and a half they were quiet as they watched the film. Even though it was not exactly the kind of movie that Elisabeth liked, she enjoyed being with Dara too much to protest. When things got too gory and scary, she found herself hiding in the brunette's shirt until she was assured the moment had passed. The taller woman would just chuckle at the antics but secretly enjoyed the feeling.

When it was over, the older woman sighed. "All right, Dara. Just a few ground rules here. We'll watch as many Jodie Foster movies as you want as long as they aren't scary. Is that enough of a compromise?"

Rolling her eyes playfully the younger woman nodded. "Fine I suppose." Looking back into blue eyes, she smiled. "You're beautiful," she whispered, running her hand through golden locks.

"Thank you for thinking so, Dara. You're quite the attractive one yourself," she responded as she fiddled with the younger woman's shirt collar before moving on to her dark hair. Unable to resist she pulled Dara's head down for a kiss. The exchange began softly but quickly escalated. Soon Elisabeth realized that she had managed to pull the taller woman's body on top of her own, and their legs were rubbing together seductively as Dara's weight pushed her deeper into the cushions. Knowing they needed to stop, she pulled back slightly for air. Dara knew that was her cue and backed off slightly. She didn't reposition herself though, keeping her body pressed firmly against the one she longed for so much. Nevertheless, she didn't try to kiss Elisabeth again for a few moments. "So, what do your weekends look like over the next month?" the older woman questioned, trying to break the tension that was building.

"Not too busy. I'm actually pretty free until the last Saturday of the month. I have to go to Roanoke."

"Oh? Why? What's going on there?"

"I'm actually being inducted into my school's Athletic Hall of Fame."

"That's so neat. For soccer?"

"No, for basketball actually. I played both, but I was much better basketball player. I actually hold a couple of school records for most points in my college career and most rebounds. I wanted to ask you to go with me."

"I'd love to. That sounds like so much fun."

"There's a slight problem though," the brunette hesitantly stated.

"What's that?"

"Suzanne is going to be there," she confessed. "She's being inducted as well for soccer."

Feeling her heart drop, the blonde mumbled, "Oh."

"Look, Elisabeth. I'll understand if you don't want to go. It's supposed to be a fun event, but I don't know how you feel about seeing her again after all these years."

"I don't know, Dara. I never imagined that I ever would see her again."

"I know. That brings me to a bigger issue than just that weekend. Suzanne and I aren't friends, but we do see each other occasionally. We both volunteer for Hollins with recruiting and fund raising. We don't hang out, but we do see each other a few times a year. If we're going to be together, you need to know that there is a definite possibility of seeing her at some point."

Elisabeth nodded. "I hadn't thought about that. I'm not going to shy away from you because of her though. She may have hurt me when we were kids, but I'm an adult now. She's not in our relationship. As far as seeing her though, I really don't know how I'll feel until I'm actually standing in front of her."

"Is that something you might be willing to do in a few weeks?"

The blonde shrugged. "Will you let me think about it?"

"Of course."

"Thanks." Looking at her watch, she mentioned, "So, are you going to subject me to another Jodie Foster movie?"

"Well, I don't think you're going to like 'Panic Room' if you couldn't sit through 'Silence of the Lambs.' Perhaps we should find another activity," she whispered, raising her brows playfully.

Elisabeth smiled at the younger woman. "I can only imagine what you mean," she feigned innocently.

Sighing the taller woman said, "It's going to be a long wait."

"I know. I have an idea. Why don't you give me a tour? Show me where little Dara used to dream of running the world."

Nodding her head, the brunette got off the couch and helped Elisabeth do the same. Together they made their way through the large home, Dara telling tales of her family. Elisabeth was enjoying the glimpse into her girlfriend's past. Making their way through the ground floor, they took the back staircase upstairs. However, the older woman made her stop and explain most of the pictures on the staircase before making it to the second floor. Leaving her bedroom for last, she announced to her guest, "This is where all my dreaming occurred. A lot of interesting things happened in here."

"Such as?"

Laughing the brunette answered, "Lots of things my parents didn't know about. I'll just put it that way."

"Like what? Did you lose your virginity in here?" Elisabeth teased as she took in the room. It didn't look like much had changed since Dara was a child. It was still decorated with what was obviously high school and college memorabilia.

"Yes, actually I did," Dara admitted.

"And just what was her name?" Elisabeth asked as she looked at some photographs on the bookshelf.

"Actually, his name was Steven. He was a friend of my brother's."

Taken completely by surprise, the older woman turned and furrowed her brows in obvious confusion. "What?"

"I was sixteen, and I wanted to prove that I was normal. Needless to say it didn't work. I was left more confused and frustrated than ever."

"Did you ever tell anyone?"

"My brother. He happened upon me that afternoon not long after Steven had left that day. I was upset and crying, and he listened. I told him the truth. I told him what we did and that I could never do that again. I remember he was so supportive. He kept telling me everything would okay. He helped me come out to our family, and he even kicked Steven's ass. After that all hell really broke loose. My parents probably wished they could just lock me away until I went to college, because then I was bringing all kinds of women in here. My mother caught me on more than one occasion messing around with someone."

Shaking her head, the blonde said, "That's so hard to imagine you being that scared and confused. It's a far difference from the woman you are today."

"Well, we all have our burdens. Fortunately mine was resolved fairly quickly and without a lot of heartache. Some people aren't so lucky."

"Very true. All right. So there was Steven. Who was your first woman?"

"That would have been Amy. I thought I was in love with her, deeply in love in fact. We made love for the first time on that very bed, and it was fantastic. Little did I know that I wasn't in love, just feeling the effects of raging hormones in a seventeen-year-old body. It didn't last long, but it was great while it did. What about you? There was Suzanne. Who came after her?"

Flushing slightly Elisabeth didn't quite met Dara's gaze as she answered, "It's just been Suzanne. I didn't trust anyone else."

"Did you date men after her?"

"I tried. It just didn't work for me. The first time they would try to make a move was the last time I would see them. I knew I didn't want to be intimate with them, but I thought it would help me get over Suzanne. It never worked. In fact the only person who has gotten close to me since is you."

"And it took a lot of kicking and screaming to do it too," the dark-haired woman teased as she plopped down on her old bed.

Joining her the older woman answered, "I'm glad you stuck it out."

"Me too. You are definitely worth it," she said, pulling the smaller woman on top of her. Once again their mouths found each other ardently. Both of them moaned as Dara situated one of her legs between the blonde's. Her thigh pressed against the juncture of Elisabeth's legs. Using her right hand, the brunette began to knead her girlfriend's lower back, instinctively pushing the blonde's hips down into her own. The older woman groaned wantonly as she felt the strong thigh rubbing against the seam of her shorts creating a mind-dizzying feeling in her body. Impulsively Elisabeth's body began to respond. Her hips undulated slowly against the stimulus as their mouth continued to assault each other.

Dara could feel her restraint waning again, especially when it was clear Elisabeth wanted more contact as well. Giving in to what she thought they both wanted, the brunette once again let her hand wander under her girlfriend's clothes. This time it started caressing the blonde's back. Several minutes passed with both of them growing more torrid in their kissing, so again the younger woman took a chance. Feeling the clasp of the older woman's bra under her hand, she gently released it. The shorter woman didn't seem to notice at first, but as soon as Dara's hand found its way around to the front of her body to her bare breast, Elisabeth gasped loudly and started to pull back. However, this time the taller woman continued in her pursuit, sitting up as her girlfriend did and kissing her persistently along her elegant neck.

"God, this is impossible," Elisabeth groaned in indecision. "I can't seem to keep you out from under my clothes."

Dara whimpered, knowing the blonde was right. However, she didn't pull away just yet. Instead she stayed where she was, hand lingering on her girlfriend's chest. Elisabeth's body was responding to her gentle touch, but she knew she had made the older woman a promise. "I'm sorry. I just don't seem to think clearly when you're so close."

"Not to mention I'm such a willing participant. You feel so good, Dara," she confessed as the brunette loitered a little longer taking in the crest of Elisabeth's breast with the palm of her hand as her mouth started to kiss down over her clothes. "We just have to stop. I can't sleep with you on our first date," she joked.

Dara whined but reluctantly released her willing captive. Both of them just sat there a moment. "When can we? How long do we have to wait?" she questioned in frustration.

Reaching back to put her bra back into place, the blonde sighed. "We really should wait until the election is over."

"That's five months."

"I know. It seems like forever to me too but think about it. I have a job to do, and I can't do it if I'm sleeping with you. The President thinks we're just friends. If he learns anything to the contrary, I'm in serious trouble. If he catches me lying, he won't trust me anymore. I might get fired, or worse he might out me to help his own campaign. That was his original plan when he thought we were in a relationship. Right now I have him where I want him. He's interested in me sexually as well as professionally. If we're going to take him down, it needs to remain that way. No one can know about this for now. As you said the other day, this isn't child's play. There is a lot at stake."

"I know, but the only thing I'm concerned about right now is you. I don't want anything bad to happen to you, Elisabeth."

"Then let me do my job," she said quietly.

Nodding her head, Dara sighed. She smiled at the woman she loved to let her know she understood. "I'm surely going to die from sexual frustration before this is all over," she teased.

"You and me both. I guess if all else fails, I still have George," she jested. "You on the other hand have nothing but your imagination."

"It's going to be put to good use tonight. I'll tell you that."

Checking her watch the blonde noticed it was getting late. "I should probably go. It would help ease the tension."

"You're probably right even though that's not the way I prefer to do things."

Both women reluctantly got off the bed and made a move downstairs again. Heading back into the kitchen, Elisabeth asked, "You want help with the dishes?"

"No thanks. You better get going before I try to jump you again," she quipped.

Grabbing her keys off the island, Elisabeth took Dara's hand as they both walked to the front door. The brunette escorted her date out to her car and opened her door for her. Turning to the woman she loved, the older woman smiled. "Well, thank you for this wonderful evening."

"It was my pleasure. I hope we can do it again soon."

"Me too."

"Call me when you get home, so I know you made it all right."

"Of course," Elisabeth replied. Seeing her sister's car still in the driveway, she mentioned, "I guess by the fact that Shelby is still here, their date is going better than ours."

"Ours couldn't have been much better. Just having you around is heaven, Elisabeth, but right now if you don't get out of here, I will be tempted to drag you back inside and love you unconscious."

"You'll get your chance, Dara. I promise," Elisabeth whispered as they leaned to kiss each other softly. When it ended she murmured, "I love you."

"I love you too. Good night."

"Good night, Dara."

Dara waited until the older woman's car had disappeared from view before going back into the house. She quickly did the dishes and locked up her parents' house before returning to her own. All was quiet when she entered, so she assumed Shelby and Leah had moved their activities to Leah's bedroom. Going into her own, she quickly prepared herself for sleep and crawled into bed just as the phone rang. Speaking to Elisabeth for a few moments, they bid each other good night once again before Dara was left with her thoughts in the dark. Making the most of it, she fantasized about her girlfriend for awhile, exerting her sexually charged body before dropping off to sleep in exhaustion.

The following morning the brunette awoke to the feeling of someone in bed with her. Sleepily she opened her eyes to see bright blue eyes gazing at her quizzically. "Shelby, what are you doing here? You're in my bed," she yawned, needlessly pointing out the obvious.

"Leah's making breakfast and wanted me to ask you if you wanted any," the perky blonde answered as she reached over to touch Dara on the stomach.

The attorney flinched as Elisabeth's sister's hand came into contact with her bare skin. "Um, I don't think that's such a good idea, Shelby. I'm naked."

Smiling sexily the younger woman growled, "I know. Having a little fun last night, were you?" she asked, her eyes turning to the night stand where Dara had discarded one of her sex toys from the night before.

"So? You think you and Leah can have all the fun around here?"

The blonde smiled at her friend and then proceeded to draw back the comforter, leaving only a sheet over Dara. The brunette looked at her in confusion as the younger woman made a move to straddle her body. Taking a seat on the taller woman's legs, Shelby crossed her arms across her chest and inquired, "So? How did it go?"

The older woman shook her head to clear her thoughts. Having a woman that looked exactly like the one she loved sitting on top of her while she lay naked in bed was making it difficult to concentrate. Nevertheless she knew Shelby really was not an option as she gazed over her friend's attire. "Nice shirt," she mentioned, taking in the fact that the blonde was dressed in only one of Leah's old soccer shirts and nothing else. "You know, Shelby, this could be misconstrued as you hitting on me."

Smiling the younger woman leaned forward, letting their bodies brush lightly as their faces came inches from each others. The younger woman whispered, "You'd know it if I was hitting on you, Dara. Now tell me how it went."

Stacking her hands behind her head in order to keep them from the shorter woman's body she said, "Things went well. I'm glad it's all out in the open now."

"Tell me more than that," Shelby whined.

"Why don't you tell me about your night? You and Leah have a good time?"

"What do you think?" she answered with a smile.

"Well, by the fact that you're wearing her shirt and not a whole lot else, I would say you blew each other away last night. Was the sex good?"

"Fantastic," Shelby moaned. "She was definitely a prime pick. Did you teach her some moves?"

"Whatever she did was of her own imagination. Glad it worked out for you two though."

"Did it work equally well for you and Lis?"

"Well, we didn't sleep together," she admitted as the blonde idly began trace her fingers along her jaw. "But we did have fun."

"You made out then?"

"A little. We're taking things slowly, Shelby. This isn't some one-night stand we're plotting. Elisabeth and I are serious about a long-term relationship. We both want that. Under the circumstances, we think it's better to wait until we're intimate. We love each other, but we understand that there are factors outside our control right now that are making us have to wait. We're not in our mid-twenties anymore. It's too late in the game to make a foul, not with so much at stake. We're talking marriage and kids here if things go well. It's what we both want, and we both seem to sense we could have something special. It takes time to foster something like that."

"So in the meantime you both have to find your fulfillment at your own hands," she mentioned. "What a pity."

Dara took a measured breath as Shelby continued to stroke her jaw line and ear. "Shelby," she began. "I like you. In fact, I like you a lot, but I'm in love with your sister. Not only that you just had sex with my sister. You really can't mess with me like this. It's not nice to tease me," she stated.

"But it's so fun."

"Yeah. Well, Elisabeth would kill the both of us if she saw us like this. If I marry your sister, are you still going to flirt with me so much?"

"If you marry my sister, I'll keep my hands to myself. I promise."

"Good. I'm going to hold you to that."

Before anything else could be said, Leah appeared in the doorway. "What's up with this?" she questioned with a smile. "One night with me and you're already making moves on my sister? She doesn't have half the moves I do."

Both Shelby and Dara laughed. "Well, it's too bad I can't be the judge of that. Lis and I will just have to compare notes sometime."

"I asked you to come in here and ask her about breakfast, not give her a morning snack. Get on out of here before she loses her self-control," Leah stated, shooing the blonde from the room.

Shelby smiled at both the brunettes and then leaned to peck Dara's lips before scampering to the door, leaving the dark-headed sisters looking at each other. "Well?" Dara questioned.

"You are right. She is more than I can handle, but I'm going to have fun trying. You, on the other hand, should know better. Her older sister is at home while you put the moves on this one," she teased.

"Did it look like I was putting on moves? My hands were nowhere on her body. How can I compete with someone who is apparently fantastic in bed?"

"Did she say that?" The older sister nodded. "Cool. I was afraid I wouldn't be that good. I'm so used to guys."

"As is she. I thought she had a boyfriend." Leah shrugged. "I hope you at least used protection."

"Don't worry. I raided your stash before we went to bed. Of course half of it I didn't know how to use until we were in the moment."

"As long as you did use it."

"How did things go with Elisabeth?"

"Really well, actually. It felt so good to be able to finally hold her and tell her how I was feeling."

"I'm glad."

"What do you think is going to happen with you and Shelby now? Any plans?"

Cracking a grin, Leah answered, "Well, I hope she will want to stick around awhile. Last night was incredible."

"I want the details later. For now though get back out to her and leave me alone," Dara said with a smile.

"No breakfast?"

"No thanks. Right now all I really want to do is fall back into the dream I was having about my girlfriend."

"Fair enough. We'll talk later."

Later that day the Rosenthal sisters sat around the pool just talking when Dara said, "All right now. It's time to spill the dirt. What happened with Shelby?"

"It was the most unbelievable night I've ever had, Dara. We had dinner and watched a movie. Then we got to talking about you and Elisabeth. Of course that turned to sexuality in general and curiosity. Next thing I know we're on the sofa kissing. She has amazing lips. They are so soft. Things just sort of happened. I mean we both wanted it to happen I think, so it felt perfectly relaxed. However, once we got into the bedroom, wow. I have never felt the need to be as aggressive or giving as I was with her."

"Did you go down on her?" the attorney inquired in interest.

"We did to each other. I went first. It was surprising the way I was able to make her feel things with just the softest of touches. She was so wet and warm. It was like nothing I've ever experienced."

"Did you make her come?"

Leah nodded. "That was strange. It felt so much more intimate than with a guy. She was shaking, and I wrapped her in my arms. I felt so protective of her."

"And how was it on the other end?"

"It was good. She definitely knows how to use her mouth. She was gentle and caring. She seemed to know what I needed instinctively. Is this what it's always like with women?"

"No, but it's like that a lot. After all, you have the advantage of knowing what you like. Usually, she'll like it as well. When you really care about someone, it can be unbelievable, but it's like that with a man as well I suppose. Are you two going to date now? I mean what's the intent?"

"We don't really have one except to see each other again."

"And you're all right with her lifestyle?"

"What lifestyle are you talking about?"

"Her career choices."

"She's a nurse. What's the big deal about that?"

"She didn't tell you about her other career?"

"You mean her porn site? She told me."

"She told you that she was a feature presentation?"

Leah nodded. "It's okay. I don't mind. She's only doing solo on camera, nothing with others."

"As long as you're being honest with each other. I want you to be happy."

"I want you to be happy too, Dara. If my relationship with Shelby starts to get in the way, I want you to tell me."

"I don't see how it will but thank you."

"So, tell me about Elisabeth. What happened?"

"We had a good evening. I made dinner, and we talked. We were completely honest with each other for the first time I think. We both admitted that we loved each other and were serious about a relationship after the election is over. Of course, that's going to be difficult considering we can't seem to keep our hands off each other," she said with a grin.

"Really? You got in her pants then?"

"No. We promised each other that we would wait until the election was over to make love for the first time. She's under a lot of pressure at work with Minion's re-election campaign, and she needs to focus on that."

"What? That's a load of crap. She's just putting you off," Leah protested.

"No. She's really not, Leah. I can't give you all the circumstances, but I understand her position. This is what is best for her right now, and I'm more than willing to wait now that I know she cares about me. Our feelings are serious."

"How serious?"

"Well, for the first time in my life I can see myself marrying someone. She's the type of woman I've always thought would complement me. We want the same things. We have the same goals."

"But what about the political differences?"

"We're closer together politically than either of us realized. I'm more than willing to forgo that for her. I'm in love with her, Leah. That means everything."

"Wow. That's great. I'm so happy for you. It's too bad for Shelby though. That girl has a major crush on you."

"How did you know that?"

"She told me."

"And yet you still slept with her?"

"Why not? I know it's not serious between us, and I'm as close as she's ever going to get to you. She also knows her sister is mad about you, but she still admires you."

"Yeah, well, if circumstances were different, I'd admire her too. She's quite the looker."

"So is Elisabeth. Although I have to say Shelby got the better part of God's gift of breasts. She's considerably larger than Elisabeth."

"I noticed," Dara admitted. "But Elisabeth is just perfect for her. Trust me. Her breasts are flawless even if they are smaller."

Shaking her head, her younger sister said, "You must really be in love. After all you are the breast aficionado. You have always liked them bigger."

"Well, so what? Elisabeth's a small C. There's plenty to get my hands and mouth around. Besides, I've already taken them on a test drive. They handle well."

Leah laughed. "Took them on a test drive? They aren't a car. We're talking about a woman's body."

"And what a body it is too," the older brunette murmured, thinking about her girlfriend in her swimming suit.

"You're right. She is pretty perfect outside her small chest. Shelby on the other hand,"

Cutting her sister off, Dara responded, "Shelby, on the other hand, is too wild for both of us combined. Large breasts or not she's more woman than we can handle."

"So true, Dara, so true. Anyway, so when are you going to see Elisabeth again?"

"Soon. What about you and Shelby?"

"Friday."

"Well, have fun while it lasts. Just don't get too emotionally attached. I don't want you to get hurt."

******************************************************************

At the end of June Elisabeth decided to join Dara on her trip to Roanoke. Even though they both knew they had to pretend to only be friends for the sake of the blonde's political mission, the older woman wanted to spend time with her girlfriend in a place that held so many memories for them both. Leaving town late Friday evening, the younger woman drove them down to Roanoke for the induction the following morning.

It was late when they reached the city, so they decided it would be better to just retire and get up early to see the campus. Dara took the liberty of checking them into their room before grabbing their bags. Quietly they made their way to their quarters. Elisabeth turned on the light as they entered and then held the door for the brunette. Neither said much being so tired from working all day and then taking the five-hour drive. Without discussion they both prepared for bed.

Being that it was the first time they were sleeping together since all their feelings had been brought into the light, Elisabeth felt nervous about it. She knew with the way she felt there was a possibility of them getting carried away with each other and doing something they weren't ready for yet, even as much as they both wanted it. She also knew that it wasn't just Dara who was struggling with the emotions of being intimate. The blonde wanted to know her girlfriend in that way desperately.

Once Dara had come to bed and turned off the light, the two of them lay in the dark for a few moments in silence. Sensing something wrong by the older woman's tense frame, the taller woman asked, "Do you want to talk about what's bothering you?"

"It's nothing. I'm just coping with feelings."

"What kind of feelings? Are you anxious about seeing Suzanne?"

"Yes, but that's not what I was thinking about though."

Turning onto her side so she could see the blonde in the dark, Dara curved an arm around her waist and inquired, "Then what are you thinking about?"

"You," she confessed.

"What about me?"

"How much I want you," Elisabeth whispered. Dara moaned when she heard the acknowledgment. Hearing her girlfriend's response, the older woman went a little further in her explanation. "How much I want to feel you inside of me."

Dara groaned loudly. "Oh, God, Elisabeth. You have no idea what that does to me. I want that so much."

"So do I, Dara. I can't wait four more months."

"You know I'll give you whatever you want, Elisabeth. If you really want this, you can have it, but I thought you wanted to wait because of that lunatic."

"Don't even mention him right now. The last thing I want to think about is him," she said. Sighing she mentioned, "I know you're right though. This is just so hard. Chad warned me about how difficult this would be, but I never imagined that I would feel like I was going crazy. It's such irony that a man we both hate is keeping us apart."

"Not for much longer. Look, honey. We can be intimate without having sex, or if you really are ready, we can make love tonight. I'll give you whatever you need, Elisabeth, but I just want to make sure it's the right decision. We have all the time in the world. A few more months isn't going to make a difference in the long run, but it will affect your ability to do your job, I think."

"I know it will too," the blonde mumbled, reaching for her girlfriend. She lovingly caressed her cheek. "The problem is I don't think I'll be able to stop if we venture even a little. That's how much I want you."

"The feeling is definitely mutual, sweetie, but I will stop us. As much as I want you, I do have enough self-control to go around. I'm just afraid it will leave us more frustrated than anything to have to stop."

"You're probably right," Elisabeth agreed softly. Neither said anything for a moment as they continued to gaze at each other in the dark. However, after a lengthy pause, the older woman leaned over and slowly kissed her girlfriend.

Dara moaned lightly and pulled her closer as their kiss deepened. For a moment the brunette allowed it to continue, but when Elisabeth's hand slid under the hem of her t-shirt, she gasped. "Elisabeth, are you sure about this?"

"I trust you, Dara. I trust your restraint. I won't make it if you don't touch me right now," she explained between kisses.

With that permission the younger woman allowed her hands to roam over her girlfriend. Each other leisurely took in the landscape of their lover's body as their mouths continued to explore each other. Longing to feel her lover more intimately, the taller woman gently raised the blonde's shirt over her head. Elisabeth allowed her to do so and even reciprocated in action, leaving them both naked from the waist up. Dara groaned as she felt their naked torsos brush together for the first time. The older woman's skin felt so soft and inviting that she had to investigate further. As their kissing began to strengthen in intensity, the brunette's hands became active along her lover's body.

Elisabeth moaned in wanton need as she felt Dara cup her right breast for the first time. The emotions were just running rampant through her frame as she instinctively arched toward the caress. Wanting to feel her girlfriend, she responded in kind, trailing her hand from Dara's back around to the front of her body. Her touch was greeted with a shudder of want from the taller woman.

Going with the feelings coursing through her, Dara's lips moved from Elisabeth's and began to travel up toward her ear before moving down along her neck. The tiny whimpers urged her further as she rolled the blonde onto her back. Pulling herself on top of the smaller woman, Dara delved back into her lover's mouth.

The older woman groaned at the feeling of Dara's body on top of her. She had fantasized about what it would feel like so many times, and finally she had the chance to feel their frames meshed together, the weight of her lover firmly against her. It made her more anxious to feel the rest of Dara's body. Tracing along the strong back she had dreamed about for so long, her hands found their way down into the back of the brunette's sleeping shorts. Instantly the younger woman growled as Elisabeth's hands began to knead the muscles. Breaking away from Dara's mouth for a moment, the shorter woman huskily demanded, "Take them off."

The younger attorney immediately complied with her girlfriend's wishes and shed the last piece of clothing she was wearing before settling her hips between the blonde's thighs again. Instantly their lips were cohered once again as their tongues wrestled more urgently. Dara knew things were quickly spiraling out of control, but Elisabeth felt so good to her. Deciding she needed more before she would be satisfied though, she ducked her head into the blonde's neck again as her hands started to caress the light peaks of the older woman's breasts.

Elisabeth's back arched even more as Dara began to move down her body, her mouth taking in every contour before closing over her left breast. Crying out to her lover, the shorter woman cradled Dara's head even closer as her hips started to rock against Dara's stomach seeking relief. However, the cotton pants she was wearing kept her from the contact she wanted. Whining in protest she murmured, "I need to take my pants off. Take them off me, Dara."

Dara paused for a moment, knowing that if she did what was asked of her she may not be able to stop herself from taking what she wanted. "Are you sure?" she whispered.

"Yes. Now," Elisabeth insisted.

Following directions, the brunette rolled off her lover to assist her out of her final article of clothing. As she discarded it haphazardly on the floor, she took a moment to evaluate the situation. She knew she had to be the strong one between them and that Elisabeth would regret it if they went too far due to her job regardless of how much they truly wanted each other. Fortifying where she would draw the line between them if she had to, Dara leaned in again.

This time Elisabeth wasted no time and grabbed her lover around the back, pulling her body down against her own. Naturally Dara's body came to rest between her legs. The older woman's eyes rolled closed in the ecstasy of the feeling of them naked in each other's embrace. It was just as she imagined it and yet even more pleasurable than she had conceived.

Going back to task, Dara's mouth kissed over the blonde's body in unbridled fashion. The older woman just felt so good that she couldn't seem to get enough of her delicate skin against her lips. She thought her body was going to combust with the heat passing between them. Feeling Elisabeth's hips again grinding into her stomach, she growled torridly. She could feel how excited her girlfriend was becoming by the wetness that was suddenly coating her skin. "God, you feel so good, Elisabeth," she whispered as her mouth managed to settle once again on her lover's chest.

"So do you," the blonde managed to breathlessly reply.

Wanting to get even closer contact between them, the taller woman let her right hand trail over the blonde's side, over her hip and to her thigh. Instinctively Elisabeth's leg bent slightly as the brunette lifted it and wound it around the brunette's hip, bringing their bodies into even closer contact. Letting her hand stay there, she began to fondle her lover's leg, tracing light patterns over the back and inner portion of her thigh. As soon as her fingers skimmed close to where Elisabeth desperately wanted them, she cried out her girlfriend's name longingly. Dara knew the older woman was closing in on a peak just by the way her body was responding.

"That's it, Elisabeth. Let me hear you. You're so beautiful like this," Dara whispered lovingly, trying to give the woman she loved the little push she needed to get the relief her body craved. "I love you so much."

"I love you too, Dara," Elisabeth panted. "Oh, God. Please."

Pressing herself even closer to her lover, Dara murmured, "Just let go, baby. I have you. You feel so good. I can imagine myself inside of you. I want to feel you contracting around me. Can you feel me?"

In her mind Elisabeth could picture Dara just as she described, and it was enough to carry her over the edge. Quivering uncontrollably she allowed the feelings to wash over her as she clung to the woman she loved. The brunette just held her for several moments as she felt Elisabeth's body tensing sporadically. Neither said anything for a few moments. Finally as Elisabeth came back from the induced euphoria, she sighed as she tried to catch her breath. "Oh God," she mumbled.

"Are you okay?" Dara asked sweetly.

"Better than that. I never thought it could be like that. I can only imagine what it's going to be like when we really can be together completely. That was incredible."

"Well, glad you enjoyed it."

"You should be a phone sex operator in your spare time," the blonde joked as she stroked the dark head that was resting against her shoulder. Wondering if her girlfriend had gotten satisfaction out of their activities, she quietly asked with some uncertain hesitation, "Did you enjoy it?"

"Tremendously, Elisabeth," she assured, because she could tell the blonde was suddenly nervous.

"But you didn't...," she started.

"It's okay, baby. I don't need to. This was about your needs," Dara explained, even though her body was taut with sequestered passion. As much as she would have loved to have reached climax, she didn't want to push her lover into something if she wasn't ready for it.

"That hardly seems fair. You give me an unbelievable orgasm, and I let you roll over and go to sleep without the same treatment. I'm not some prima donna bitch, Dara," she stated. "You deserve a little something for your efforts. I don't know who you've been dating in the last decade, but the last time I did this, it was a give-give situation, and I want to give you as much as you have to me."

Feeling the blonde's thigh maneuver its way between her legs, Dara gasped. "I swear I'm about to explode if you touch me like that," she admitted.

Laughing lightly Elisabeth replied, "Let's just see about that, shall we?" Taking the lead between them, the older woman put both hands on the brunette's hips, forcing them to grind against her thigh. Dara groaned loudly, but it was quickly muffled by a fiery lip lock. For the next several minutes Elisabeth toyed with her lover, bringing her close and then backing off just before the imminent moment until the younger woman finally begged for release. Quickly the older attorney obliged her, making her as breathless as she once had been.

When Dara had come down from her own climax, she rolled off the shorter woman. "Oh, man. Shelby was right," she mumbled still gasping for air.

Curling up against the brunette's shoulder, Elisabeth questioned, "What was she right about?"

"You are a tomcat disguised as a Republican," she jested.

Elisabeth laughed at the joke. "I bet old George would just hate it if he knew I was in bed with his worst enemy," she teased.

"Oh no. You are his worst enemy, Elisabeth, and that's what so ironic about the whole thing. He can't stay away from you, and yet it's going to be you that brings his downfall."

"Yeah, well, let's not talk about him. I'd much rather lie here in your arms and listen to you breathe."

"That makes two of us," Dara admitted, wrapping her arms securely around her lover's bare body.

The following morning the two women slept in a little before deciding to get dressed for the day. The brunette decided to shower first, leaving the blonde to ponder her outfit choices as she went into the bathroom. However, she had only been in there long enough to wash her hair when she was startled by the curtain being flung open. Elisabeth stood there with a seductive smile and nothing else. Dara gasped audibly at the sight of the woman she loved completely naked. She had never seen her before, and she could feel her knees beginning to weaken at the sight of her on perfect display.

Eyeing the woman she loved, the blonde felt her stomach churn. Dara was even sexier without clothes than she ever fantasized. "Room for one more?" she questioned breathlessly.

"Sure. Of course. There is always room for you," Dara answered in pleasant surprise. Shelby had told her Elisabeth was going to be a hot lover, but she hadn't actually pondered it until the previous night. Now after their impromptu session the night before and this morning's shower, she knew she was going to be in for an exciting ride, especially when they could consummate their relationship fully. As the older woman stepped in, she closed the curtain behind her. Dara immediately wrapped her arms around the smaller woman's body and smiled. Lightly she asked, "Miss me already?"

"Always," the older woman mumbled as she intently began to kiss the brunette's neck.

The younger woman moaned at the gesture, because it was clear Elisabeth wanted more of last night. Knowing they had the time for it, the brunette indulged her girlfriend in the moment, catching her mouth for a searing kiss. Quickly things escalated as usual, but both of them found quick peaks before settling down to just hold each other in the warm spray of the water.

Embracing the woman she loved in her arms and feeling Elisabeth's heart racing, the younger woman knew she was so far gone she may never return from the bliss they had found together, and it was in that moment she realized she did want to hold this woman forever. Elisabeth was the one she wanted to be with for the rest of her life, and the thought suddenly frightened her, because the older woman was playing such a dangerous game. In fact, her life could be at stake if she was ever found out by the wrong people. As much as she thought the President ignorant, she worried what he was capable of should he discover Elisabeth's true intentions. However, she also knew she couldn't dissuade the blonde from her mission. The older woman wanted to go this course, and all Dara could do was support her.

Knowing they had somewhere to be soon, Dara eased out of Elisabeth's embrace far enough to finish bathing. The blonde did the same, and they were both quietly contemplative for the rest of the shower. Dressing and breakfast followed much in the same fashion. When it was time to head over to the college, Dara reminded herself what she had to do. They had agreed to pretend to only be friends as long as they were around others for the sake of Elisabeth's career. However, at the turn in events it was the last thing the brunette really wanted, even though she knew the necessity of it.

They arrived with only a few minutes to spare, leaving them just enough time to find their seats before the program began. As Dara looked at the program they had been handed as they had entered the gym, Elisabeth looked around at the other attendees, and her heart stopped momentarily. Sitting two rows in front of them and off to the right was her first love. Suzanne was sitting around some other women chatting amiably, oblivious to the blonde's presence, giving Elisabeth ample time to just gaze at her. She didn't look as if she had changed much over the years. She still had her figure and personality it appeared. Suddenly the blonde found herself caught up in the recollections of the two of them together, their friendship in high school, the prom, first day of college, and their first kiss all came flooding into her mind. As she continued to stare, the intimate memories followed, the first time Suzanne had ever touched her, the feeling of Suzanne inside of her for the very first time, making love in the barn at school. All the emotions she had ever felt for her long-time acquaintance came rushing into her heart. She and Suzanne had promised each other forever when they were young, and back then the blonde had wanted it to last that long.

Sensing something change in her lover, Dara looked over at her to see what was wrong. Seeing eyes elsewhere though, the brunette cast her glance in the same direction and saw Suzanne as well. Instinctively she knew what was bothering the older woman. Leaning to her ear so no one could hear them, she whispered, "Are you all right?"

Hearing the voice Elisabeth turned and met a concerned dark gaze. The woman sitting next to her loved her so dearly, and she knew it, but her eyes couldn't stay away from what she had once had. Blue eyes went back to Suzanne, watching her every move. Dara sighed, knowing this was not something with which she could help. Only Elisabeth could battle her feelings herself. It hurt Dara a little to see the apparent longing in her lover's eyes as she continued to look at Suzanne. She knew that the blonde loved her and furthermore her old college buddy would never look at Elisabeth the way she had a decade ago, but it still stung to see the unresolved feelings play across her girlfriend's face.

Throughout the next hour and a half Dara tried to focus on why she was there. She was to receive an award, not watch her girlfriend gawk over an old flame. When it was time for the inductees to receive their awards, Dara's name was called last, because they were being called by class year, and she was the youngest. Coincidentally that placed her next to Suzanne as they all stood with the awards for photographs.

As the two old teammates stood close to each other listening to their old athletic director speaking about them, Suzanne leaned closer to Dara and inquired, "Dara, who is that woman you are sitting next to?"

"An old friend of yours," she mumbled, looking over at Elisabeth and seeing the blonde gazing in her direction. Although she wasn't sure if those blue eyes were looking at her or Suzanne. With the way Elisabeth had been acting, she figured they were on Suzanne.

"Elisabeth Gunter?" The brunette nodded. "She looks fabulous. Are you two dating or just friends?"

"We're just friends," Dara lied, not wanting to but knowing it was what was expected of her.

"Is she married?"

"No."

Seeing Dara and Suzanne whispering to each other as they stood in front of their audience left the blonde feeling awkward. Both women were staring at her just as intently as she was at them, so she wondered what was being said.

Finally when the induction was over, all the athletes went outside for more pictures. Elisabeth just hung around inside the gym watching them from afar. She was surprised at how well Dara and Suzanne got along. Both of them were chatting easily as they posed for pictures. Once those were complete, the athletes and their families were invited to a small reception. During that time Dara introduced Elisabeth to everyone they spoke to, but Suzanne steered clear of the two of them, although the blonde noticed her ex-lover looking at her constantly. The taller woman noticed it as well and figured she should be the most mature of them and allow the two to speak. Directing her girlfriend that way, Dara smiled at she reached Suzanne.

"What a great reception this is," she mentioned to try to get the two of them to talk.

Suzanne nodded. "It is nice." Looking at the blonde, she softly greeted, "Hi, Elisabeth."

"Hello, Suzanne," cooly Elisabeth responded.

An awkward moment ensued. "Well, I know the two of you have some catching up you would like to do, so I'm just going to go talk to coach," Dara mentioned with a smile for both of them which she didn't quite feel before leaving them alone.

Suzanne watched her leave before nervously smiling at the blonde. "Well it's been a long time."

"Yes, it has."

"Still mad at me, I see. You did swear never to speak to me again."

"I know, and if it weren't for Dara, I'd have kept that promise."

"She knows about us, doesn't she? That's why she came over here."

"She knows. My sister told her."

"Oh? And how is Shelby? Still the brat I used to know?"

Unable to help herself, Elisabeth chuckled at the description of her sister. "Yes, as a matter of fact. She's been meddling with Dara and me since they met."

"I see, but it hasn't worked. You're not with Dara?"

"We're friends," the blonde answered as her eyes sought out the topic of conversation.

"That's too bad. So, tell me. What are you doing with your life?"

"Well, I'm working on the Minion-Bonaparte re-election campaign right now. After that I'm going to go back to my job at the DOJ."

"You're on the re-election campaign, and you're friends with Dara? Are you sure that woman isn't interested in you? She wouldn't normally stand for something like that. That's not her nature."

"Well, maybe she's changed. People do change, Suzanne," Elisabeth snipped.

"I know. Listen, Elisabeth. I understand why you're still upset with me after all this time, but it was ten years ago. There has been so many times where I've wanted to call or write you and tell you how sorry I was for what happened." Not know what to say, the blonde simply nodded. Suzanne sighed deeply. "You know, I had this speech prepared in the event I ever saw you again, but I never thought I'd be able to use it. Could we maybe just step outside in private for a few minutes? There's something I want to say to you."

Casting a glance in her girlfriend's direction, the blonde saw that Dara was engaged in conversation, so she nodded her head. "Fine." Both women left the reception and went out onto the front quad. They walked in silence until they got to a bench. Sitting the blonde looked at her ex-girlfriend and waited for what she wasn't sure. She watched as Suzanne gathered her thoughts.

"I wrote you a letter that you never answered," Suzanne stated. "In it I bared my soul to you, Elisabeth. Did you ever even read it?" The blonde shook her head. She knew exactly the letter Suzanne was talking about, but she had never been able to open it.

"It's probably for the best that you didn't. I said some things in there that could have ended my marriage back then. Elisabeth, I hope you never doubted my love for you. I loved you in a way I have never loved anyone else in this world. You were the best thing that had ever happened to me. Even when we were in high school and both dating boys, I always loved you, and it was my secret hope to one day be able to say that. I finally got that chance, and you made my life heaven by being with me. Then when I met Bryan things began to change. For the first time in my life I found myself in love with two people, both of you very different. I did cheat on you, and for that I am truly sorry. I never told you the complete truth about Bryan and me. You see, the day that we last spoke, I had found out that I was pregnant. It was an accident. I didn't know what to do, and I thought if I married Bryan I could have some normality in life. That's why I broke things off with you. Well, I miscarried, but Bryan still wanted to get married. I had already lost you, so I thought I should marry him. I still loved him, but I also loved you. As it turned out, over the course of time, I realized what a horrible mistake I had made. I loved you more than him, but I tried to make it work with him, because we had kids. I haven't been able to stop thinking about you in ten years, and he finally realized I never would. He left me a few months ago."

"What are you saying, Suzanne?" Elisabeth questioned hesitantly, unsure of where the conversation was suddenly going.

"I'm saying that letting you go was the biggest mistake of my life. I loved you then. I've loved you the whole time I was married to him, and I love you now."

"What? Suzanne, what do you mean? What are you trying to do? Playing with my feelings isn't right."

"I'm trying to tell you that I wish I had a second chance to make things right, but I know that I don't. You're heart belongs to someone else," she said, taking the blonde's hands. "Elisabeth, listen to me. Don't make the same mistake I made. Don't let love slip away, because you're too worried about what people will think or your career or any other reason. Do whatever it takes to make sure you and Dara are together," she insisted.

"What?"

"Don't pretend to be something you're not. You're going to lose her. Trust me on this. I can tell you love her just by the way you look at her. You used to look at me that way. Furthermore, it's obvious that she feels the same. That's all that should matter. She's a lucky woman to have your love, and you're lucky to have hers. Let nothing drive you two apart." With tears in her eyes, Elisabeth reached for her ex and embraced her in a hug. Suddenly the years of animosity faded as Suzanne laid down the burden she had been carrying and supported the blonde's feelings for Dara. The two women sat hugging for several moments before Suzanne pulled away and inquired, "Are you going to be okay?"

"I'll be fine. I just need a minute."

"All right. I'm going to go back inside unless you want me to stay."

"No. Go on."

Nodding her head Suzanne stood. "Maybe someday Dara, you, and I can all be friends. Until then though just know that I'm thinking about the two of you and hoping for the best." With that she walked away, leaving Elisabeth on the bench alone. The blonde continued to cry quietly at what had just transpired. She had never expected Suzanne to express feelings of remorse or love for her still. It left her completely aghast, but at the same time she was comforted by the fact that even Suzanne could see the love she shared with Dara. It meant that it seemed as strong to other people as she hoped it did between two of them.

Since Dara had seen Elisabeth and Suzanne disappear together, she wondered where they had gone and what they were doing, but she knew she had to trust her love for the blonde. Seeing Suzanne return alone though made the brunette uneasy, so she headed outside to see if she could find her lover. Spotting her on a bench, she cautiously made her way over. She could hear Elisabeth crying and felt bad that she had initiated their contact.

"Elisabeth, sweetie, are you all right?" she inquired gently, taking a seat next to the woman she loved.

Immediately wet blue eyes met hers. Unable to stop herself, the blonde threw her arms around Dara's neck and pulled her into a powerful kiss. The younger woman moaned lightly but tenderly pulled back to see what her lover could possibly be thinking. "I love you, Dara. I love you so much it hurts my heart."

"I love you, Elisabeth."

Going in for a second kiss, the older woman murmured, "I want to leave. I want to go home and make love with you the rest of the day."

Groaning deeply Dara felt the words settle between her thighs. "I want that too, baby, desperately, but we can't go home. We have to have dinner here with the school president, and then I promised to take you on a night tour of the city."

"But I want you."

"I want you too. I promise we'll have all the time in the world. We just can't. You know I'm right."

"I know, I know," she growled in frustration. "I'm just tired of waiting already."

"Time will fly before you know it. Now come on. I really should go back inside."

By the time Dara dropped Elisabeth off at home the following day, the blonde was full of emotions whirling within her. The whole experience at Hollins had left her with a feeling she had never had before in her life. She knew she wanted Dara, but the intensity of her emotions was more than she could even comprehend. It was all she could think about, being with the brunette.

As she went into her room to unpack her bags, she could hear loud music in Shelby's room next door. Wondering what her sister was up to, she walked out into the hall and knocked on the door. There was no answer, so she opened it. Immediately she regretted that choice as she saw her sister lying naked on her bed with Leah on top of her. The brunette was so involved she didn't seem to notice the intrusion at first, but Shelby's eyes met her sister's. Neither blonde said anything though as the younger one went right back to her pleasure. Quickly deciding it was best to just walk away, Elisabeth started to close the door when she noticed a camera sitting on a tripod across the room pointing in the direction of the bed and her sister's computer displaying everything that was taking place. Shocked at what was really transpiring, she made a hasty retreat downstairs to the kitchen.

Never could she have imagined that her sister would do such a thing. She knew Shelby was wild and unrestrained, but she never thought she would go so far as to record her own sexual encounters. Not knowing what else to do, she picked up the phone and dialed Dara.

"Miss me already?" the brunette joked.

"Dara, our sisters are upstairs right now screwing," she informed.

"So?"

"They're recording it as well."

"What? Are you kidding me?"

"No, I'm not kidding. I walked in on them. I have to stop them."

"Why? Elisabeth, you can't stop them. They're both adults. Just because we don't like it doesn't mean we have the right to interfere."

"Did you know about this?"

"I knew they were sleeping together. I didn't know Shelby had convinced Leah to do it on tape."

"You think this was Shelby's idea? Never. She wouldn't."

"Don't say never, Elisabeth. Your sister has it in her to do this. Just take my word for it."

"Why? Do you know something that I don't?" Dara hesitated in answer. "Well?" the older woman pressed.

"Let's just say I know more about her sexual escapades than you do and leave it at that. Both of them have the propensity for this behavior. I'm surprised that Leah has decided to participate, because I thought I knew where she stood, but I can't stop her any more than you can stop Shelby."

"But our reputations. Do you know what will happen if that tape gets out?"

"Nothing will happen. They'll see two hot chicks getting it on, but it won't reflect on us. People can discriminate between what we do and what our family does. Take Clinton and his brother for example. No one blames good old Bill for his brother's screw ups or vice versa. Just calm down. It's not that big of a deal."

"Not that big of a deal? You're not the one who had to walk in on it."

"Well, what do you want me to do? I'll talk to them. Is that good enough?"

Just then Elisabeth heard movement behind her and turned to see the topic of discussion standing in the doorway of the kitchen. Leah was dressed in a pair of gym shorts and a t-shirt while Shelby wore only a robe. "Hold on a second, Dara." Thrusting the phone in Leah's direction, she said, "Your sister wants to talk to you."

"Hello?" Leah questioned hesitantly.

"What are you doing, Leah? Is that shit on her porn site?"

"Yeah but it's no big deal, Dara."

"Are you crazy? Think about what you're doing. You're not a prostitute. Do you realize that could ruin me?"

"Dara, there is no way I'd let that happen."

"Oh? And how are you going to protect me? I run for office and that tape comes up. I'm against pornography politically, Leah. That's my stance regardless of whether or not I like it personally. Not to mention they will probably pass that tape off as being Elisabeth and me instead of Shelby and you. We look that much alike, and Shelby and Elisabeth are almost carbon copies. I don't need that. It's going to be difficult for me to tell the people that it is in fact you and then condemn something that you've done in such a public arena."

"I understand, Dara. You'll do what you have to, but this is my life, and if it's something Shelby wants, I'm willing to do it for her."

"Why? What kind of hold does she have on you?"

"One that I've never felt in my entire life."

"Don't tell me you're in love with her," the older brunette stated.

"I can't help it, Dara. I think I am."

"Leah, she's not capable of loving someone. You see how she treats me. Can you deal with that? Your girlfriend pawing all over me?"

"Don't think so highly of yourself. She may have had a crush on you, but I'm the one she goes to bed with, not you."

Seeing that she wasn't able to talk sense into her sibling, she demanded, "Put Shelby on the phone."

A moment later the younger blonde said, "Dara, hi. What's up?"

"How did you talk Leah into having sex with you for the site?"

"She wanted to."

"I don't believe that. What was the incentive?"

"I don't know, and I don't care, Dara. She wanted to do it, and who am I to turn her down? After all she's by far the best lover I've ever had."

"What are you saying? You have feelings for my sister? That's why you did it?"

"No. Who said anything about that? It was fun."

"Well, for the sake of my sanity as well as your sister's, it needs to stop. Do you realize the two of you are mucking with our careers while you two are having fun? Shelby, I don't care that you and Leah are having a great time in and out of bed. I'm happy for you on that. However, please don't post anything with the two of you on your website. That's all I'm asking. Can you assure me of that much?"

"Dara, you're asking something impossible."

"Why?"

"You know why. I can't really discuss the monetary repercussions here."

"This is about money? You're exploiting my sister?"

"Dara, I'm taking care of her. Leah is in good hands."

"I know about your hands, Shelby. Please, if you two want the money that much, you could have just asked me for some. Leah doesn't lack funds when she wants them. Look. I can't make you stop, but I'm asking anyway as a friend and as someone who might be a future family member. How is that going to go over if that happens? If Elisabeth and I get married, you and Leah are going to be related by marriage. That's not going to be so hot to have footage of your torrid affair. Please, for me, just think about it. Think about what you are doing."

"Fine. Whatever."

"Now let me speak to Leah again." When her younger sister got on the phone, she said, "Leah, listen. You're an adult, so I can't make you do anything, but I want you to know that what you're doing has consequences. I don't know what they are yet, and neither do you, but you will have to pay a consequence for this. How much are you willing to sacrifice for what you're doing? Your degree? A future job? Our parents' high opinion of you? Just think about it. If our parents found out about this, they would be destroyed. Be with Shelby if you want. I'm not trying to stop you from that, but don't participate in something you know is a bad idea."

"But, Dara, you don't understand," she whined.

"I understand that if she cares about you she won't make you do it again if you say you don't want to. That's what I know. And whatever money you might be getting from this, it's not worth prostituting yourself, even in fun."

"Fine. I understand."

"Okay. Is Elisabeth still standing there?"

"Yeah."

"Then put her on the phone."

When the oldest woman got back on the phone, she asked, "Well, how did it go?"

"I don't know. I think I got through to Leah. I'm not sure about Shelby."

"Well, Leah just walked out of here with her head hung like a kid in trouble. Something you said must have stuck."

"We'll see. Have you calmed down?"

"Yeah, I'm better, but I'm still going to have a talk with Shelby once Leah leaves."

"Good luck with that. Well, I'm just about home now. I'll talk to you later. All right?"

"Okay. I love you."

"I love you too. Good night."

Elisabeth hung up the phone and then poured herself a glass of milk as she pondered what she was going to say to her sister. Before she could even come up with an appropriate way to open the conversation, she heard yelling coming from upstairs. Wondering what the problem was, she went into the living room. She heard both Leah and Shelby bounding down the stairs bickering about Dara. The young med student was enraged as she grabbed the door handle and flung open the door. Elisabeth watched as she turned to Shelby.

"Dara was right! You are incapable of loving someone! I did this for you, Shelby! I don't care about the money! I don't even need the money! I care about you, so I thought this might make you care for me too, but all you can seem to think about is your business!"

"That's not fair, Leah! I do care about you! I just don't see why you don't want to make money at what we already do!"

"I just don't want to, Shelby! I want to just be with you! If my parents ever found out that I made a sex video and put it on the net, they'd kill me! I know it's what you do for a living, but I am not a whore for sale! I do care about what people think about me, especially Dara!"

"So you're going to let your big sister ruin everything? If she cared about you, she'd let you do what you want!"

"What I want is to love you, Shelby, but you love your website more than me! That's become clear! Until that changes you can consider this over!" she screamed, turning and storming out of the house. She slammed the door so hard a picture that had been hanging in the entryway fell off the wall.

Shelby turned and glared at her older sister. "Your fucking girlfriend just ruined everything!" she yelled.

"What the hell is going on, Shelby? What was Leah going on about? What website?"

"It's none of your fucking business!"

"Like hell it is! What have you done? You made a porn movie with Leah and put it on the internet?"

"So the fuck what? I couldn't get Dara, so I went after the next best thing!!"

"You bitch! You meddled with Leah's feelings? You pretended to be interested in her just to fuck her?"

"Well, I wanted to fuck Dara, but she was too interested in you! I figured Leah was the best substitute! She's not quite the kisser Dara is though!"

"Excuse me? Just how in the hell would you know that?" Elisabeth screamed as insecurities flooded through her. When they had first met, Dara had flirted with Shelby a great deal, but she thought it was only in play. She never conceived that there could be more to them.

"Oh come on, Lis! Do you actually think Dara is capable of just waiting until you're ready to stop being a frigid bitch? A bottle of tequila and she was more than ready to hit the sheets with me!"

"Are you saying you slept with my girlfriend?" the older woman accused.

"No! She had a change of heart! Apparently she does love you enough to at least try to be faithful! Not that I understand why after all you've put her through! She's a woman with needs, and she can get whoever she wants! I don't see what's go great about you that she passes up an available opportunity!"

"Oh, I don't know, Shelby! Maybe it's because you're a whore! Maybe it's because you sell your body on a website! Is that really true? Do you really do that?"

"Yes as a matter of fact! And that's not why Dara wouldn't sleep with me! She was all too intrigued with my website! She couldn't stop looking at it when I showed it to her! She just loved watching me perform!"

"She knows about the website?"

"Yeah! And she's been on the site even after I showed it to her!"

"How do you know?"

"I own it, Lis, and I have records of all my members! I gave her a free ID, and she's used it more than once! Face it! She's just like the rest! She might act gallant, but when she's at home, she's getting off by watching me!"

"You know where she goes on the site?"

"Yes! I can track every move she makes, and she's always watching my videos!"

Elisabeth didn't know what to say at that admission. She felt as her whole world was beginning to slip away. As much as she wanted to believe in Dara's love for her, she had her doubts in the far recesses of her mind. It was just in her nature after what had happened with Suzanne to hold skepticism. Feeling at a complete loss for words, she just looked at her sister. Shelby was obviously still seething, but she was just wounded by the information that had just been revealed. Not knowing what else to say, she merely walked away as she stared to cry. Going into the kitchen she slumped down at the table and wept. She had given her heart to Dara on faith, and she wasn't prepared for it to be shattered.

Elisabeth didn't know how long she sat in the kitchen crying, but the more she thought about what had just transpired, the more she realized she needed to talk to the woman she loved. She wanted answers from the brunette. Wanting to have the conversation in person though, she slowly got up from the table and went to get her car keys. She didn't even contemplate the hour as she headed for her girlfriend's place.

It was only when she knocked on the door and was greeted by the sight of Leah in pajamas yawning that she even looked at her watch. "I'm sorry I woke you," she apologized. "I need to talk to Dara now. It can't wait."

"She's upstairs with our parents," the younger woman stated. "I'll take you up."

Both women went through the basement apartment and then up a staircase that led them into the kitchen. Elisabeth felt nervous about the fact that she was about to meet Dara's parents at the same time she was about to have an altercation with her lover. It was not what she wanted, but she knew she wouldn't be able to sleep if she didn't confront her girlfriend.

Dara turned from her conversation with her parents as soon as she heard the door to her apartment open. Seeing Leah and Elisabeth, she smiled at them. "Hey, sweetheart. What an unexpected surprise," she greeted, getting up and coming to kiss the blonde. She felt the tense body of the older woman and sensed a problem. Nevertheless, she stated, "Let me introduce you to my parents." Moving the shorter woman over to the sofa where her parents were sitting, Dara smiled. "Mom, Dad, this is the lady I was just talking about. This is Elisabeth Gunter. Elisabeth, my parents, Eric and Emma Rosenthal."

Putting on a smile she really didn't feel, she said, "Hi. It's nice to meet you."

"You too, Elisabeth. Dara has told us so much about you. She's simply crazy about you," Dara's father said.

"I've never seen our daughter happier," her mother added as they all shook hands.

Elisabeth just nodded at the sentiment and turned to Dara. "I'm sorry to just barge in like this, Dara, but I really need to talk to you. It can't wait."

"Sure. Of course. Come on. Let's go into the study," she suggested, taking the blonde by the hand.

"It was nice meeting you," the older woman said to the brunette's parents before she was led away into another room.

As soon as the door was closed, Dara put her arms around Elisabeth and asked, "What's wrong?"

The touch of her lover burned her skin, making the blonde move away and across the room. She could see the hurt in her lover's eyes at the movement. Unable to stop herself from crying, she simply wept as she mumbled, "I feel like my life has just come to a screeching halt. I feel betrayed. I trusted you, and you've demolished me."

"What? What are you talking about? What did I do?" Dara questioned in panic. She couldn't think of any reason that her actions could make the older woman feel that way.

"You knew about Shelby's website, and you didn't tell me."

"She asked me not to. She said you wouldn't approve. I don't approve either, but it's legal, and I can't do anything to stop her."

"How can you say you don't approve when you've been on it several times watching her?"

"What are you talking about? I haven't been to her website. She showed it to me, but I never went there on my own."

"She says you did. She said she gave you a log in for it, and it's been used on several occasions and that you downloaded her stuff."

"Well, it's not true," Dara defended. "You know, I gave that log in to Leah. She may have been using it, but I didn't. I wouldn't do that to you. I love you, Elisabeth. I would never do something to hurt you like that."

"How can you say that? You made out with my sister!" she yelled as her emotions got the better of her.

"I did no such thing. Why would I do that?"

"That's what I want to know! Shelby said she tried to seduce you, and you were more than willing at first!"

Dara nodded her head. "All right. That is true. She did try. The emphasis is on the word try, Elisabeth, but I refused her. We kissed. I admit it. I'm not proud of it, but that's all I did, and it was before you and I ever even discussed having a relationship."

"When did this happen?"

"That night after we got back to your place after donating blood and having Mexican food. You had a meeting, so we were alone. We started drinking tequila shots and talking about life. She said she wanted to know what it was like to kiss a woman, so I showed her. It was innocent at first but quickly escalated. I was drunk, but I wasn't about to be stupid on top of it. I wanted you, not her, so I told her I couldn't sleep with her regardless of how tempting it was. That's when she told me about your feelings. Then we did something we shouldn't have done."

"What was that?"

"We went up to your bedroom. She had me lie on your bed and close my eyes," she stated softly.

"Then what?" Elisabeth prompted, not sure she really wanted to know but knowing she needed to find out.

"She read me an excerpt from your diary. I'm sorry, Elisabeth. It wasn't right to allow her to do that, but I couldn't help myself. I was dying to know what you thought about me."

"What did she read you?"

"It was a passage from a few days after the HRC banquet. You wrote about fantasizing about me, about us making love for the first time. You wrote that you had wished I was your first, your only lover, and that you hoped I would be your last," she whispered quietly, her own emotions swelling within her at the thought of such a notion. She felt the same way now about the blonde.

"Oh God," Elisabeth mumbled as she turned away in embarrassment.

"Elisabeth, I know it was wrong, and I can't tell you how sorry I am about invading your privacy. I didn't know that was what Shelby intended to do, but I wasn't thinking clearly that night because of the alcohol. I think she read that to me to make me horny and get into her bed, but I couldn't. The feelings that you wrote about were just so strong that I didn't want to hurt you. She left me alone in your room, and as wrong as it was, I continued to raid your domain. I looked at all your yearbooks and your photo albums. That's how I found out about your grandfather. I also found other things."

"Such as?" the older woman inquired. She wanted to know everything before she let her emotions rule what she was going to say.

"I found a letter from Suzanne that you had never opened. That's when I knew the extent of the hurt she had caused you, but there was one thing above all that caught my attention."

"What?"

"A picture of you and Suzanne. I was in the background. It made me realize the irony of the situation and that I was getting another opportunity with you. I didn't want to blow it. I left your room and went to the living room. I was too drunk to leave, so I watched TV. I fell asleep on the couch. I know I should have told you all of this a long time ago, but I was ashamed of the way I acted. It wasn't right, and I'm sorry."

A moment passed in silence. Dara just hung her head and waited whatever fate had in store for her. She hoped Elisabeth would be able to forgive her indiscretion. After a minute the older woman sighed. "So, you admit that you had feelings for my sister and acted on them?"

"The only feeling I may have had was drunken lust, but I still couldn't act on them, and I never would," Dara asserted.

"You admit that you grossly encroached upon my most sacred place in the world looking for evidence of my feelings?"

Dara nodded her head shamefully. "Yes, but I'm so sorry I did that. It was wrong, and I swear I will never do it again."

"And you admit that you knew about my sister's sordid activities but didn't tell me because of some misplaced trust she fixed upon you?"

"Yes but I wanted to be on good terms with her, so she would help me with you. That's all I ever wanted, Elisabeth, to be with you." With that Elisabeth came to the taller woman and wrapped her arms around her neck. "Does this mean I'm forgiven?" she questioned hesitantly.

"Dara, I am mad about what you did. Drunk or not there is no excuse for invading privacy, but I'll get over it. Right now I'm just relieved to know that things were not as bad between you and Shelby as she inferred. The way she made it sound the two of you did a lot more than share a kiss."

"Why would she do that to you?"

"To get back at you. She's angry, because you talked sense into Leah. Obviously Leah didn't want to participate in the sex website anymore after talking to you, and they argued bitterly. Shelby blames you for Leah walking out on her."

"Leah did the right thing even though I know she's hurting. She told me she thought she might be in love with your sister."

"And this whole time Shelby just wanted a replacement for you to indulge her own fantasies. God, what a bitch she can be."

"Yes, she can but don't be too hard on her. She's never felt love the way we have. She doesn't know that there is more to life than sex. Neither did Leah until now I think. They both just thought of this as a game at first. However, then it got emotional, and for the first time I think Leah knows what it's like to be hurt. Cut Shelby a little slack. They both got what they wanted. It's just that Leah's heart wanted to change the rules, and Shelby doesn't like to change the game for anyone."

"How can you be so nice towards her? After all she hurt your sister."

"I know, but I was once like Shelby. Love was a game, not to be taken seriously, but I eventually grew up. She will too. Just give it time. I feel bad that my sister was a casualty, and I'll be there for her, but I did try to warn her. She just had to learn this the hard way."

"Do you think there is a chance they'll reconcile?"

"No. Leah's straight, and I'm pretty sure Shelby is too. In time Leah will just chalk this up to a sexual experiment and go on. She's not in love with your sister. She just has feelings she's never had before that she's mistaken for love. In reality it's just lust gone out of control."

Before anything else could be said, there was a knock on the door. Dara called the person into the room. Her mother smiled at the two of them still in their embrace. "Sorry to bother you. Your father and I are going to retire for the evening."

"Okay."

Looking at the blonde, the older woman said, "I was telling Dara earlier that she should invite you over for dinner one night soon. The family is going to be in town at the end of the month, and I think it would such a treat to have you there, so everyone can meet the woman who makes my daughter's eyes so bright."

Dara flushed in embarrassment at her mother's comment, but Elisabeth smiled. "Thank you, Mrs. Rosenthal. That's sweet of you to ask. I'd love to come if I can fit it into my schedule."

"Please, call me Emma. It was such a pleasure to meet you. I look forward to seeing you again soon."

"Likewise, Emma. Thank you." The mother smiled at the two of them before saying good night and shutting the door. Casting a smile up at her lover, the blonde stated, "I make your eyes bright, do I?"

"I told them about you for the first time tonight. I told them I had fallen in love with you. Needless to say they are happy that I've found someone so wonderful."

"I am pretty wonderful," Elisabeth agreed jokingly.

Wondering if the blonde had told anyone in her family about them, she timidly inquired, "Does anyone other than Shelby know about us?"

"No. I haven't told anyone for the obvious professional reasons. However, I want to tell my mom. Chad is bound to mention it to her the next time they speak anyway, but I want her to hear it from me. She's coming up here at the end of the summer on business. I'd like for you to meet her if you want."

"Of course. I'd love to meet her."

"Good. I was hoping you would." Holding each other quietly for another moment, the older woman said, "It's late. I should probably go. I just don't want to see Shelby again right now."

"Then stay with me. Let me hold you tonight. I think it would help."

Elisabeth nodded in agreement. The thought of sleeping close to the woman who held her heart was better than any other she could have had at the moment. "Come on then. I'm tired. Take me to bed."

Leaving her parents' house, Dara led the way back to the basement apartment. It was obvious Leah was asleep for the night. Checking to see that the door was locked, the brunette escorted her girlfriend to her bedroom. Neither said much as they undressed. Dara laid out some clothes for the blonde and then proceeded into the bathroom. Moments later she was joined by the older woman. They brushed their teeth and washed their faces together in comfortable silence. The moment felt so right to Dara that it made her heart start pounding in her chest. She wanted this with the woman standing next to her at the sink. She wanted them to be this way every night, doing their routines in familial fashion. The domesticity of it made her realize her heart was resolved in making a life with the shorter woman. Looking at the blonde out of the corner of her eye, she wondered if Elisabeth would ever feel the same. Her instinct told her she would, but when was the question Dara wanted answered. She knew Elisabeth held aspirations of permanence in their relationship, but she wanted to know if it was too soon to be discussing something of that magnitude with the woman she loved. After all they had only known each other four months, but Dara was sure this was the woman she was meant to be with for the rest of her life.

Going into the bedroom, Dara made herself comfortable in bed and just waited for Elisabeth to join her. The blonde did so a few moments later. Getting under the covers, the older woman snuggled up into the brunette's shoulder and released a long sigh. Dara sighed as well in contentment. This was all she needed at the moment as she turned out the light. Kissing the fair head, Dara whispered, "I love you."

"I love you too, Dara." Nothing else was said then as sleep quickly claimed them both.

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Continued...

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