The next several months passed in a hurry. Bren had graduated from high
school and been accepted to a local university on full scholarship. Alex was
extremely proud of Bren’s accomplishment, and bought her a new car for her
graduation gift. As the summer wore on, Bren began to prepare for college.
She was hesitant about leaving Alex’s home to live in the dorms, but Alex
assured her that she would always have a home with her, and if she didn’t
like dorm life, she could always come back.
During the fall they didn’t see each other much due to Alex’s schedule, but
they would make time to talk over the phone several times a week. Bren was
adjusting well to her new situation at school, and even though Alex was
happy for her, she missed the young woman’s company around the house.
As the holidays came around, Alex knew Bren would probably be missing her
mother, so she invited the younger woman to spend Thanksgiving with her and
invited her to her firm’s holiday party. That evening Alex waited in her den
as Bren dressed for the formal affair. As soon as she heard Bren making her
way down the stairs, Alex came into the hallway. Bren was wearing a long
black dress. Her hair was curled framing her face in ringlets.
Alex gasped. “Wow. You look beautiful, Bren. I’ve never seen you looking so
elegant. I’m damn lucky to have you for a date tonight. You certainly don’t
look eighteen in that dress.”
Bren smiled as her cheeks reddened with the compliments. “Thank you, Alex.
You’re wearing a tuxedo.”
“Yeah. It’s kind of an annual joke at the expense of the older partners.
When I first became a partner, I was the only woman, so I wore a tux to
tease the boys. They all got a good laugh out of it, even though they
realized I was making a gender statement. They made another woman a partner
within three months. Now it’s just kind of expected.”
“It looks very nice on you. You look really...dare I say sexy. The women at
your office must love you.” she mentioned fiddling with Alex’s bowtie.
“Well, there is one woman at work that has taken particular interest in me,
much to my concern. I don’t think interoffice dating is a good idea, and
especially if it’s a subordinate.”
“You’re her boss?”
Alex nodded. “Her name is Kelly. You’ll meet her tonight. She’s my
assistant actually. She’s a good looking woman, but I just don’t think it’s
a good idea. Not to sound arrogant or anything, but she’s been sizing me up
since the day we met.”
“Do you think she’s in love with you?”
“I don’t know. Maybe you can tell me when you meet her. I guarantee she’ll
want to monopolize my dancing time tonight. Megan never liked her for that
reason. Come on now. Let me escort you to the car.” Alex extended her arm
for Bren to take.
Bren was an instant hit at the party, winning everyone’s favor in a few
short minutes. Knowing that she was safe, Alex began to make her own social
rounds, making it a point to talk to as many people as possible. As
predicted though, Kelly kept dropping hints at Alex for a dance until Alex
relented. As they moved across the floor around other people, Kelly smiled
up at her boss.
“So, you seem to be having a good time tonight. I thought you might be a
little down being that this is the first holiday season without Megan.”
Alex shrugged. “Well, I admit that it gets to me a little bit, but on the
whole I’m doing much better. I realized that she wasn’t the one, and that
makes it easier.”
“I’m glad you realized that. She seemed to have a way of bringing you down.
Are you seeing someone? I haven’t heard you mention anyone but Bren in the
last few months. I thought you were dating her, but after meeting her I now
know differently.”
“What do you mean? Why wouldn’t I be dating Bren? She’s an extraordinary
woman.”
“Oh, please, Alex. You don’t fool me. She’s almost half your age. I know
you better than that. You need a woman who is attentive to you, a woman that
caters to your needs.” she softly stated.
Alex knew Kelly was speaking of herself. She looked around to see if Bren
was anywhere close by and saw her dancing with another partner a few feet
away. Maneuvering over toward them, Alex replied, “You’re right, Kelly. I do
need those things, and that’s why Bren and I are dating.” Then she quickly
tapped the man dancing with Bren on the shoulder and asked to cut in. When
she took Bren into her arms, she leaned in closely saying, “I told Kelly you
were my girlfriend. She was really starting to piss me off. I hope that
doesn’t make you uncomfortable.”
Bren smiled. “Oh, I can think of worse things than being mistaken for your
girlfriend. After all everyone here thinks that anyway. You don’t know how
many times I’ve been asked how long we’ve been together. I figured it would
be in your best interest not to correct them.”
“Thank you. I owe you for this.”
York while you were there on business in March. I just gave the bare
necessities, saying we met at a restaurant, got to know each other, etc. I
was very discreet and conservative. They don’t really need to know what
happened.”
“No, they certainly don’t. Besides it doesn’t even matter now. I’ve got the
best looking significant other in the whole place, and Kelly is off my back
for now.”
Bren raised a brow as she looked around the room and spotted Kelly watching
them. “She’s studying us right now. Think we ought to give her a show?” Alex
shrugged, so Bren leaned up and caught Alex’s slightly open mouth in a kiss.
Alex moaned softly as she felt Bren’s tongue pass between her lips into her
mouth. When they broke apart, Alex whispered, “Where did you learn to kiss
like that?”
“Chloe taught me.”
Alex laughed lightly. “You mean she gave you kissing lessons?”
“Yeah. I told you I had no real experience. She taught me how to kiss men
and women for the job.”
“Well, she certainly was a good teacher. You nearly had me convinced.” Alex
glanced over toward Kelly, who was looking disappointed. “Kelly bought it. I
guess that’s what matters. Short of someone finding us making out in the
corner, I think we’ve done all the damage we can do. We should just leave
now while we’re still on top. It’ll make it look like we’re really into each
other.”
“Uh huh. It’ll look like we left to have sex, but I guess I can stroke your
ego this once.” she teased.
“Thanks.” Alex smiled as she escorted Bren toward the coat check. Alex made
a show of helping Bren with her coat and received a kiss for her effort.
With one last quick gaze over the room, they both noted that Kelly had
bought their story, and they both laughed about it all the way back to
Alex’s house.
Over the course of Bren’s college career, Bren and Alex stayed in almost
constant contact, and Bren even stayed with her during the school breaks.
However as the spring semester of Bren’s senior year began, the younger
woman seemed too busy for Alex. Even though Alex was busy enough with work,
her thoughts still drifted to Bren almost on a daily basis. During the past
four years, Alex watched as Bren developed into an amazingly beautiful and
intelligent woman, and as time passed Alex found her image of the girl shift
from the innocent child to the charming young woman. Alex knew in her heart
that her feelings for Bren were growing stronger each day, so she was partly
glad that they had little contact. Alex still felt as if she was under the
oath she had given Bren years previous about not expecting a relationship to
develop between them, but it was painfully obvious that Alex desperately
wanted just that.
One evening Alex was sitting at work looking out her window deep in thought
when Kelly knocked on the door. “Hey there. You look upset.” she mentioned.
Alex looked over at the woman, her former assistant and now junior partner
of the firm. “I was just thinking about Bren. I’m just missing her I guess.”
Kelly gave a sympathetic smile. “Must be difficult dating such a younger
woman. She’s at that age where change is constant.”
Alex nodded. “Actually, Bren and I aren’t dating, Kelly. We never were, but
you’re right, she’s constantly changing. She’s a new person every time I see
her.”
“You mean that time at the holiday party years ago when you two were
kissing was fake?” Alex nodded. “It didn’t look fake to me, Alex.”
“Well, it was.”
“You did that because of me, didn’t you?” Alex gave a noncommittal shrug.
Kelly chuckled. “Well, I guess I deserved it. I did unashamedly try to put
my hooks into you at every opportunity back then. Is it too late to
apologize?”
“There’s no need for that. You were still young and ambitious. Your zeal
for promotion outweighed your senses at times, but I can’t really blame you.
There was a time I wanted it that badly myself. It was just that all my
bosses were men, so that kind of ruled out sleeping my way to the top.
Nevertheless you got what you deserved in the end.” Alex said with a smile.
“I guess I did. All I ever wanted was a partnership with the firm. You’re
in love with Bren, aren’t you?” she asked touching Alex on the shoulder
compassionately.
“Am I that transparent?”
“Why don’t you tell her?”
“I can’t.”
“Why not? You’re not scared, are you? Alex, you’re a powerful attorney who
speaks her mind and doesn’t take crap from anyone. How can a petite little
blonde throw you for a loop?”
Alex shrugged. “I don’t know, Kelly. When I met Bren, she was a little
seventeen year old living on the streets of New York. She had nothing, and I
took her in. I promised her that I wanted nothing in return. I took care of
her financially and protected her. She doesn’t know it, but I’ve been paying
for her schooling this whole time. I paid the school in full every year and
had them tell her it was a scholarship, because I didn’t want her to know. I
feel protective of her. Yet at the same time I find myself wanting her in
ways that I haven’t wanted any woman since Megan. What am I to do? I feel
like if I approach her I feel like I’m taking advantage of her. For things
to work, she’ll have to come to me, and I’m not sure she’d interested in
women, much less me, that way.”
Kelly nodded. “I guess I can see how you’d feel that way. You’re a good
woman, Alex Schreiber. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. Well, unless I
can convince you to have dinner with me, so I don’t have to have dinner with
my cat again, I’m going to go. You interested?”
Alex laughed. “Yeah. I’m interested. I could use some company tonight.”
“Then let’s go. I’ll even let you pick the place.”
“Well, there’s this great Irish pub close by that has live music. Megan
introduced it to me ages ago. We can leave your car here, and I’ll drop you
off.”
“Sounds good except I took the subway in today, so if you could just give
me a ride home afterwards then it’s a date.”
“Great. Let’s go.”
Alex and Kelly spent a few hours at the pub listening to music, drinking,
and eating dinner. The conversation was easy between them as they talked
about current cases and other non-work related topics. Bren wasn’t mentioned
the whole night by either of them. Alex then drove Kelly back home. As they
came to a stop in the driveway of the little bungalow, Kelly turned to her
asking, “You want to come in? We can watch a movie or talk.”
“I don’t want to intrude on your private time.”
“You aren’t. If you go, I’ll just end up reading myself to sleep, and
that’s not much fun for a Thursday night.”
“Okay if you’re sure.” Alex answered turning her engine off. She followed
Kelly to the side door and watched as Kelly unlocked it. Kelly showed Alex a
seat in the den and then went to get them some drinks. Alex just sat staring
at Kelly’s movie collection on the bookcase, taking in all the lesbian films
the woman had. When Kelly came back, she was carrying beers for both of
them. “You have quite the collection.” Alex mentioned.
“You want to watch one?”
“Sure. There are a few I haven’t seen.” Alex went over to the movies and
picked out one that interested her. Turning to Kelly she asked, “This one
any good?”
“Pretty good. It’s about two women who meet in Germany during World War II.
It’s subtitled. Maybe you want to pick something else. It’s kind of
graphic.”
“Explicit sex doesn’t bother me.”
“That’s not it. I mean the war crimes are pretty violent. I wouldn’t want
you to be upset by it. One of the two women is Jewish.”
“Oh. Well, maybe you’re right. Let’s pick another. I’m not really up for
that. I’ve heard enough first hand accounts of the Holocaust from my
grandfather. That’s part of the reason I got involved in the law. What about
this one?”
“That’s one of my favorites. Let’s watch that.”
Alex put in the movie and then took a seat next to Kelly on the small sofa.
Silence prevailed as the movie began. Alex quickly realized that she had
picked a film with many steamy love scenes. It had been years since she had
felt the touch of another woman, Megan being the last. With her feelings
toward Bren and her long dry spell, Alex could feel her body start to hum
with sexual tension as the movie played. She felt Kelly shift her legs,
curling one underneath her body, accidently brushing into Alex’s trousered
thigh. Alex flinched at the contact at first but then realized the simple
act of rubbing against Kelly’s leg was stimulating her. Alex didn’t think
about the repercussions of making a move on her co-worker with the way the
light grazing was setting the skin of her thigh on fire. Subtly Alex moved
her hand to Kelly’s leg, letting just one finger touch Kelly’s thigh. Kelly
seemed unaware of the touch, so Alex scooted her hand over a little more.
Kelly’s eyes still stayed on the screen, but her hand covered Alex’s. Alex
froze until Kelly maneuvered her hand between her thighs under her skirt.
Alex’s heart began to race as she lightly caressed Kelly’s bare inner
thighs, mere inches from her destination. Alex could feel the heat radiating
from Kelly’s body as the younger woman shifter her hips up slightly as her
legs opened further. Still they didn’t dare look at each other. Alex boldly
inched her fingers up until she could feel Kelly’s arousal. Kelly moaned
softly. Alex teased her for a few moments before not being able to keep up
the charade. She turned her body toward Kelly’s and cupped the woman’s
cheek, pulling it around, so they could look at each other. Kelly’s eyes
were hopeful yet questioning. Her breathing was heavy, but she said nothing
as Alex stared at her.
In a husky voice Alex whispered, “Do you want me to keep going?”
“Please.” Kelly whimpered desperately. Upon that consent Alex leaned in to
kiss Kelly fervently at the same time finding her way inside her with her
questing fingers. Several minutes passed before Kelly managed to pull back
from Alex’s probing tongue. “Let’s go into the bedroom. This couch is too
small.” she panted. Alex didn’t reply but simply picked the woman up and
walked her back to where she thought the bedrooms would be.
The following morning Alex awoke to the sound of an alarm. Opening her eyes
she noted that the room was still dark, and furthermore she wasn’t sure
where she was until she heard a discontented groan as the woman next to her
slapped irritably at the offending noise. Alex reached toward the bedside to
find a lamp and switched it on. Kelly’s head immediately shot up from under
the covers and scowled at Alex.
Realizing that she was in bed with Kelly, Alex panicked. “Kelly, I have to
get going.” she said already looking around for her clothes. Hastily she
dressed. “Are you going to walk me out?”
“Sure.” Kelly yawned before slipping out of bed. She was completely naked
but didn’t seem to mind.
Alex followed her wordlessly to the door. When Kelly turned to her, she
said, “Well, I’ll see you later at the office.”
Kelly nodded her eyes barely open. “Yeah. See you in a bit.” she mumbled
kissing Alex absentmindedly on the lips.
Alex made a quick exit to her car and started off down the street as the
implications of what had transpired ran through her mind. Mentally she
chastised herself for being intimate with a peer, but as she relived the
night in her mind, her body once again started to come alive to latent
desires. What they had shared was hot and lustful. Kelly had been an active
lover, eager to experiment with anything Alex wanted to do. Briefly Alex
wondered if they were to be together again Kelly would be as responsive. Not
knowing how to feel about the events, Alex decided to see what Kelly’s
reaction would be when they met at work.
At ten that morning all the partners had a meeting. Alex was the last to
arrive due to a client meeting, and when she walked into the boardroom, she
noted that the only empty seat around the table was next to Kelly’s. Alex
met the brunette’s eyes momentarily but saw that Kelly was wearing an
expressionless face. Matching her Alex quickly sat and opened her notebook
for notes. Alex was deep into the conversation amongst the partners when she
felt a light touch to her knee. She spared a glance at Kelly who looked back
innocently. Ignoring her Alex tried to focus on the topic at hand. However
as the minutes passed, the hand began to massage her thigh under the large
oak table. Trying not to respond, Alex began to fidget with her pen,
twirling it between her fingers. She made a concerted effort not to look at
Kelly, but the hand was pressing harder now. As a last tactic, Alex pushed
back from the table, leaving her legs completely exposed to the people on
either side of her. Crossing her legs she brought her legal pad to her lap
to continue her note-taking. When the meeting was adjourned, Alex walked
directly to her office and shut the door. She sighed heavily at Kelly’s
behavior. It was obvious to her that Kelly wanted more of what they had
experienced the previous night.
Alex successfully managed to avoid the younger woman the rest of the
business day until after six. Usually everyone was gone by five on Fridays,
so Alex figured she was probably alone in the office. Going to her stereo,
she put in her favorite R&B cd, and soon the sounds of Marvin Gaye filled
her spacious office. Then going to her mini-refrigerator she retrieved some
ice. In the bottom drawer of her filing cabinet she kept a bottle of scotch
for those long days. Pouring herself a healthy glassful, Alex took a seat in
her oversized leather chair and closed her eyes. Several songs played as her
thoughts wandered between her growing feelings for Bren and the sexual
excitement brought on by Kelly.
A soft rapping at her door brought her out of her reverie. Opening her eyes
she saw Kelly standing there. “Is this a private party, or can anyone be
invited?” she asked from the open doorway.
“No, it’s not private necessarily. Come on in. Want a drink?”
Kelly shut the door half of the way behind her and walked to Alex’s side of
the desk. She took a seat on top of the files littering the dark wood
directly in front of Alex. Taking the glass from Alex’s hand she took a sip.
She sighed in satisfaction after she swallowed. Kelly then proceeded to prop
her feet on the either arm of the chair effectively pinning Alex into it.
Idly she ran the glass along the exposed skin of her chest between the two
open buttons of her blouse as she inquired, “Hard day?”
Alex shrugged as she watched the path of her beverage dip between the
valley of Kelly’s inviting breasts. “I’ve had a lot on my mind.”
“Anything I can help you with?”
“Maybe.” Alex replied leaning forward and taking the drink away from her.
Her fingers brushed Kelly’s cleavage in the process. She took a long drink
before saying, “I hate to state the obvious here, Kelly, but we bent a
company policy last night.”
“Maybe but we didn’t break it. The partners frown upon dating within the
office. It has nothing to do with two partners having wild sex one night for
the hell of it.”
Alex paused for a second before asking, “Was it just one night for the hell
of it, Kelly?”
“What kind of question is that? What are you really asking me, Alex?” she
inquired gently, her hands coming to rest behind her on the desk. Kelly
stretched her back making her breasts arch higher into the air as her head
dropped back slightly.
Alex took in the erotic pose, Kelly’s open legs on either side of her
exposing her legs up to mid-thigh, voluptuous breasts straining against her
silk blouse, the skin of her neck that held a faint mark of their previous
passion. Alex took a long sip of her drink as she studied the woman before
her. Neither spoke for a moment. “Well, um... after the meeting today I
thought maybe you wanted things to be more than a one night stand.” Alex’s
hand went to Kelly’s leg under her skirt where she rubbed the top of her
thigh intently. “Did I misread you?”
Kelly looked down at Alex. “Am I misreading your intentions, Alex? After
all your hand is under my skirt.”
Alex withdrew it and looked around her office for a moment before meeting
Kelly’s gaze. “I’ll admit it, Kelly. I’ve been thinking about you all day.
You’ve given me something I haven’t had in a long time. I’m feeling greedy
for more, but I can’t commit to more. I’m in love with someone else. I don’t
know where you stand, but I thought I should at least tell you that.”
“I never asked you for a commitment, Alex. I’ll be honest with you. It was
never my intention last night to have sex with you. Like you I haven’t felt
what we shared in a long time, and it’s all I’ve thought about today too. I
can’t help but want more. I know you love Bren, and she owns your heart, but
until you two get involved, your body is still free game. I’d like to be the
one to exercise it once in awhile if you’d like the same from me.”
“Can you really have a sexual relationship without feelings, Kelly? I don’t
want to lead you on.”
Kelly smiled but didn’t answer. Slowly she began to undo the buttons of her
blouse. Next she flicked open the front clasp to her bra exposing her chest
to Alex. Alex licked her lips in anticipation. Kelly reached for the glass
again dipping her fingertips into it. Bringing her hand back to her chest,
Kelly began to rub the golden brown liquid over breasts all the while
smiling sexily at Alex. After finishing the process, she reached for the
back of Alex’s head whispering, “Dinner’s served.”
Alex delightfully dove into the treat Kelly had presented. They kissed for
a long time before Kelly slid off the desk into Alex’s lap, so they were
face to face. Alex’s hand went up her skirt as Kelly began to unbutton Alex’
shirt. Soon they were involved in each other, driving each other toward
ecstacy. Alex could feel Kelly on the brink as the younger woman rocked
faster onto her long searching digits. Alex bit harder into Kelly’s shoulder
as she whimpered spastically, Kelly’s hand working wonders inside Alex’s
trousers. “Oh, God. Kelly.” Alex groaned, pushing the brunette’s body
tighter against her.
Kelly was panting and moaning constantly with her head thrown back. “Don’t
stop, Alex. Oh, God. Don’t stop. Harder. God. Fuck me harder.” she screamed.
Both women climaxed, yelling loudly as shudders overcame them.
Just as they settled into a blissful embrace, there was a knock on the
door, startling both of them. Quickly they looked at each others state of
undress before turning to the open door to see the founding partner of the
firm standing there. The elderly man’s face was white in shock, but he
quickly adverted his eyes. Both women quickly made themselves appropriate
before Alex inquired, “What can we do for you, Arthur? We thought everyone
was already gone for the day.”
“Um... you’re causing quite the commotion with the cleaning staff. I was
wondering why they were all hovered around your doorway. Hope you’re at
least charging for your entertainment.” he joked still trying to recover
from what he had seen. “I think maybe you two should call it a night.” he
said before closing the office door without waiting for a response.
Kelly and Alex began to laugh uncontrollably once they were alone again.
“Poor Ethel. She’s going to have a surprise when Arthur gets home tonight.
We probably gave him the biggest kick start to his hormones that he’s had in
ages.” Kelly joked.
Alex laughed heartily. “Come on. He’s right. We should get out of here. You
want to come back to my place? We can order some takeout or something. We’ll
lay out by the pool and enjoy the spring evening. What do you say?”
“Sounds good. Let me get my things from my office, and then I’ll follow you
there in my car.”
Later that evening Alex and Kelly were lounging together in a chaise
drinking wine and stargazing as they cuddled in the cooling night air. They
were just talking when Alex thought she heard her garage door opening. She
cast a quizzical glance at Kelly. “That sounds like my garage door, doesn’t
it?” she asked. Kelly nodded. Deciding to investigate Alex went over to the
gate leading from the pool area to her driveway. She saw Bren’s car pulling
into the garage. Alex stepped out onto the driveway and waited for Bren to
exit her car before calling her name.
When Bren heard her name, she turned to Alex. “Oh, Alex. Thank goodness
you’re here.” she sniffled coming to her. She threw herself into Alex’s
arms.
“Sweetie, what’s wrong? Why are you crying?”
“One of my professors... he hit on me.” she sobbed.
“What? What do you mean he hit on you?”
“He made a pass at me and then grabbed my ass.”
“Uninvited?” Alex questioned. Bren nodded through her tears. “Okay. Let’s
take this one step at a time. First of all you come inside with me. We’ll
sit down, and you’ll tell me exactly what happened.” Alex escorted Bren
through the gate into the backyard. Kelly was still lying in the chaise
drinking her wine when she met their gaze.
Bren looked at Kelly and then Alex. Pulling away from Alex, she said, “I
didn’t realize you had company. Maybe I should come by later.”
Alex sensed sadness in Bren’s voice as she made her suggestion. Knowing
that the girl needed a friend at the moment, Alex answered, “No. You are
welcome here anytime, Bren. I want to hear about what happened. Why don’t
you go on inside and freshen up a bit? I’ll be there in a minute. Okay?”
Bren looked over at Kelly again before nodding in consent. Once Bren had
closed the door, Alex walked over to Kelly again. “I’m sorry, Kelly. She’s
really upset and needs someone to talk to.”
“It’s all right. I understand. Wherever she goes your heart follows.” Kelly
stated in jealousy. “We were having a perfect evening here, and you were
going to get laid again later. Is that worth giving up, so Bren can cry on
your shoulder tonight and leave you longing tomorrow?”
“Kelly, I thought we had an understanding here. I mean if you can’t handle
it then we shouldn’t see each other anymore outside of work.”
“I’m just annoyed is all. I didn’t think we’d have this kind of
interruption. I don’t have a problem with your feelings for Bren. I just
thought we’d have some alone time.”
“Well, if it’s any consolation, even if I didn’t have feelings for her, I’d
still let her cry on my shoulder. I am her friend. My friends come before my
sex life if need be.”
Kelly took a deep breath. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap. I was just
really looking forward to another night with you. I’m so hot for you right
now.” she whispered leaning into Alex.
Alex groaned. “The feeling is mutual, Kelly, but I have to deal with this
right now. Maybe I can call you later after she leaves.” she suggested.
Kelly glanced toward the house. “She’s not leaving tonight, Alex. She’s
going to want you to stay with her. How about you call me tomorrow afer she
leaves?”
“All right. I’ll do that. Thanks for understanding. Let me walk you out.”
Alex walked Kelly through the house, so she could gather her purse and
shoes. Then she followed the brunette out to her car. Kelly turned to Alex
and smiled. “Sorry that the evening was cut short. While you’re alone in bed
tonight, you can think about me screwing myself to sleep.” Alex moaned at
the thought. “Good night, Alex. Have fun with your little friend.” Kelly
whispered kissing Alex lightly on the mouth before getting into her car.
When Alex went back into the house, Bren said, “I didn’t know you were
dating Kelly.”
“I’m not.”
“But I just saw you kissing.” Alex shrugged nonchalantly. Bren looked into
her lap. “Well, I’m sorry I ruined your plans this evening.”
“You didn’t ruin anything, Bren. This is more important. Now why don’t you
start from the beginning?” Alex suggested taking a seat next to Bren on the
sofa and wrapping Bren in her arms.
“My friends and I were at this eighteen and over bar near school since I’m
the only one not twenty-one. We were just hanging out, dancing, and stuff.
We were sitting at the bar, and out of nowhere my European history professor
appears. He’s obviously drunk, and he sits down next to me on the empty
stool. He just started hitting on me, saying how pretty he always thought I
was, how much he watched me in class. I tried to be nice but not let him
think I was receptive. I even went so far as to say I was dating someone to
try to get him to leave me alone, but he then said it was okay, because he
was married. He mentioned that I could improve my grade in his class by
sleeping with him. I just freaked out, Alex.”
“What did you say in response?”
“I said I was happy with my grade in his class already. I excused myself,
and when I stood he grabbed my ass. I was appalled and shot him a nasty
look, but then he said my grade could drop too, like it was some sort of
threat. I just had to get out of there. I took off and came here. I don’t
know what to do, Alex. I can’t fail his class. I won’t graduate on time.
What should I do?”
“Well, you can report it to his superior. Who is the head of the
department?”
“He is.”
“Oh. Well, how about the dean, the vice-president, or even the president?
You can write a formal letter of complaint against him to those people, and
you could even go to the board of trustees if you wanted.”
“I don’t know if I could do that, Alex.”
“I could help you. I’ll help you compose the letter if you want. If you
really are too scared of him, though, I’ll talk to him.”
“Would you really?”
“Of course. However I think we should do this. Let’s write a formal letter
to the dean, v.p., and president, and I will sign it, acting as your counsel
on the matter. That way they know that you’re serious. We shouldn’t get your
professor involved at this stage. Let his superiors handle him.”
“But I’m scared he’ll try something next time I’m in class.”
“Well, there is one other thing I can think of to do in addition. I can
speak to him but not as your attorney. If he knows I’m your legal counsel,
he could get suspicious of what we’re doing. You told him you were dating
someone. I could pose as that person and have a little chat with him about
his behavior. That would be the only way I could see getting involved
without raising his suspicion, but obviously with me being a woman, you
might become a target for derogatory remarks.”
“I don’t care about that, Alex. All I care about is my grade. There are
only two months left of school, and I don’t want anything to screw this up.
I’ve worked too hard not to finish on time.”
“I understand. If you want me to talk to him, I will but know that I’ll
have to talk to him from that point of view.”
“That’s fine with me, Alex. I can think of worse things than you posing as
my girlfriend.” she said with a smile.
“All right. Let me go into the office now and compose that letter quickly.
You can give me the addresses later, but I want to do this now while it’s
fresh in my mind.”
“Okay. Thank you, Alex. Can I fix you anything?”
“A cup of tea would be nice.” she responded already walking back to her
office.
By the time Bren had come in with the tea, the letter was finished. They
spent the rest of the evening watching movies, and then Bren went up to
sleep in the guestroom.
On Monday morning Alex met Bren at her dorm to walk her to class just in
case the professor had the nerve to approach her in route. When they arrived
at the classroom, he was standing outside the door. Alex saw the smile he
directed at Bren. Putting on her most intimidating face, Alex made a direct
line for him as she launched into the dialogue that she and Bren had agreed
upon. By the end of the two minutes diatribe the scrawny middle-aged man was
literally shaking in fear as the six foot Alex towered over him yelling at
the top of her lungs. Alex took a step back when she felt he had been
properly chastised for his improper behavior. The man took one glance at
Bren and then back at Alex before retreating into the safety of the
classroom.
Bren embraced Alex in a tight hug as the crowd of students began to
disperse. “Oh, thank you, Alex. That was amazing. He was really scared.”
“Well, he deserved it. With the way I embarrassed him and the reprimand I’m
sure he’ll receive from his boss when those letters arrive, that man will
never even look at a student improperly again.”
“Thank you. I hope you’re right.” Bren said.
Alex checked her watch. “Well, I really need to go now, and you have class.
Call me if you have any further problems with this guy, but I don’t think
you will.”
“Okay. Thanks again, Alex. You’re a life saver.” Bren said with one extra
squeeze to Alex’s frame and a peck on the cheek. Alex just watched her walk
away with a dreamy look in her eyes. She had enjoyed reaming that professor
a little too much, because she got to pretend if only for a few minutes that
Bren was hers. Alex touched her cheek lightly where the feeling of Bren’s
lips lingered on her skin. Alex sighed deeply before turning to go. She had
to be in court in an hour, so she forced thought of the young woman from her
mind.
A couple of weeks later was Bren’s twenty-first birthday. Bren had invited
Alex to go out with her and several of her friends to celebrate the event,
and even though Alex didn’t really want to go bar hopping with college
seniors all night, she felt that she should be there for Bren. Unfortunately
Alex was running late that evening, so when she arrived at the restaurant,
Bren had already gotten tipsy. Having taken off her suit jacket and left it
in the car, Alex rolled up the sleeves on her dress shirt as she made her
way over to the table of rowdy girls. “Good evening, ladies.” she greeted
everyone. “Happy birthday, Bren.”
Bren’s eyes lit up like Alex was her long lost best friend. “Alex!” she
exclaimed. “You’re here!” She stood up from her seat in the middle of the
booth and began to crawl over to her friends to get to where Alex was
standing. She fell into Alex’s arms as she tripped over someone in her rush.
“Hey there, beautiful. You seem to already be having a great time. Sorry
I’m late. Court let out later than expected.”
“That’s okay. You’re here now. The flowers I got today were so beautiful.
They were the best I’ve ever gotten.”
“Well, glad you liked them.”
“Oh, you have to meet everyone.” she said before turning to the group.
“Everyone,” she announced at the top of her voice, “This is Alex. Alex,
everyone.” She pushed on the shoulder of her friend at the end of the booth.
“Scoot down everyone. I want to sit on the end with Alex.”
They both took a seat, and then Bren continued to talk with her friends
about subjects with which Alex was unfamiliar. Nevertheless she tried to act
interested as she ate a few appetizers and waited on her dinner to arrive.
Under the table though, Bren’s hand was firmly attached to Alex’s thigh,
giving Alex enough attention to feel welcome in the group. After dinner for
which Alex paid, the group decided to head to a dance club. Bren made it
clear that she wanted to ride with Alex, so she and two more of her friends
hopped into Alex’s Mercedes as they followed the entourage to the bar. Once
there Alex bought Bren her first drink and then sat on the stool sipping her
own as Bren and her friends danced in a pack. Half an hour passed as Alex
watched over the group, but then one of the girls approached the bar for
another drink and took a seat next to Alex.
“So, you’re Alex. It’s finally good to put a face to the name. We weren’t
quite sure you were real.”
“Oh? Why’s that?”
“Bren talks about you all the time, how great you are, how in love she is
with you, but none of us had ever seen or talked to you. It was kind of a
running joke behind her back that you were a figment of her imagination. I’m
glad to know that you truly exist. You make Bren so happy. It’s amazing. It
seems like whenever she’s the happiest it’s because she’s just been with or
talked to you.”
“Oh, well, that’s wonderful to hear. I care about Bren very much, and I
just want her to be happy.”
“Then you’re succeeding, because she is happy, and I think a lot of it has
to do with you.”
“Listen. Bren and I have known each other a long time, and we were friends
first. Do you remember when she finally started admitting that she was in
love with me? I was just wondering if it coincided with when I began to feel
that way toward her.”
“Oh, I don’t know for sure. As long as I remember I guess. I’ve known Bren
since freshman year, and I remember her telling me about you then. Of course
she didn’t tell me she had feelings for women until second semester. At the
time she seemed confused but said she thought she had fallen in love with
you. I guess over time those feelings just grew stronger. Why? When did you
fall in love with Bren?” she asked curiously.
Alex shrugged wondering if she should really admit anything to Bren’s
friend. “I’ve always held Bren close in my heart. I’ve always cared for her
since the day I met her. I guess it’s been so gradual over the last four
years.”
Before either of them could say anything else, Bren scampered over to the
bar, and demanded another drink from the bartender. Looking at Alex and her
friend, she inquired with slurred speech, “What are you talking about?”
Alex smiled at her as she took her hand. “Just talking. How are you? You
having a good time?”
“Yeah but I’m super thirsty. I need a drink.” she said.
“Well, the bartender is getting you one. Hold your horses. Here take a sip
of mine while you wait.” Alex said handing Bren the glass. When the
bartender put Bren’s drink in front of her, Alex paid for it. Alex watched
Bren guzzle the beverage before dropping the empty glass on the bar again.
Alex had to set it upright after it had toppled over, spilling ice. The
bartender scowled. “You’ll have to forgive her. It’s her twenty-first
birthday.” Alex explained and then slipped him some extra money for the
spill Bren had caused behind the bar.
Pulling on Alex’s arm, Bren demanded, “Come dance with me, Alex.”
Alex felt a little self-conscious surrounded by all the young women, but
she quickly was lost in thoughts of Bren as the girl moved to the sensual
beat. Alex let her emotions guide her as she moved in closer to Bren. Bren
responded accordingly by stepping into to Alex, so their bodies lightly
brushed as they danced. Bren reached out to Alex, wrapping one arm around
Alex’s broad shoulder as their hips ground together. Alex could feel her
heart start pounding wildly. Their eyes met with a burning intensity and
held for several minutes before the laughing of Bren’s friends broke the
moment. Bren broke away from Alex to investigate, leaving Alex wondering
what was really happening. When Bren stepped back, Alex inquired, “You want
to stop now?”
“Actually I have to go to the bathroom. Come with me?” she asked. Alex
didn’t answer but let Bren lead her to the ladies’ room. When they got
there, they found one of the stalls open.
Bren pulled Alex toward it, but Alex hesitated. “Why do you need me to go
in there with you?”
“I need help.”
“Help? With what?”
“My jeans. They’re so tight to begin with that I had to lay down to get
them on, and I don’t think I’ll be able to get them off alone.”
Realizing that she didn’t have a good excuse not to assist her, Alex
begrudgingly went into the stall behind Bren and locked it. She decided to
try to focus strictly on the task at hand and not think about the fact that
her fingers were unzipping Bren’s jeans and pulling them off her slim hips.
Once they were down to her knees, Alex adverted her attention to the
graffiti in the stall. She was surprised when Bren grabbed onto her belt on
either side of her waist for balance as she squatted. Alex could feel Bren’s
thumbs hooking inside her dress pants. Suddenly Alex began wishing that she
hadn’t come out that evening, being that she was now having difficultly
keeping her emotions in check. Now that she knew Bren had feelings for her,
Alex wanted so badly to touch the blonde, but she knew she should refrain.
Soon enough Bren was finished and then Alex had to get her back into her
pants.
Heading back out onto the dance floor, Bren continued to dance into Alex at
every opportunity, slowly driving the older woman delirious with desire. At
one point Bren had backed into her and was grinding her backside against
Alex’s overheated crotch. Alex’s body began to overthrow her mind as she
wrapped Bren in her arms, pushing back with equal fervor. As the night
progressed, Bren kept drinking and targeting Alex as a dance partner. Their
gaze was locked once again as they danced, and Alex could see for the first
time in Bren’s eyes what she was feeling. As the music slowed, they sought
each other out in a tender embrace and swayed to the love song. Alex wanted
so much to lean down and kiss the woman in her arms, but she chose not to do
so. However just as the song came to and end and another fast one began,
Bren stood up on her tiptoes and pulled Alex’s head down for a long, deep
kiss. Alex groaned as their tongues battled, and she held tighter to Bren as
if she would disappear if she let go. When the need for air became
paramount, they broke away slightly. Bren leaned to Alex’s ear, growling,
“Take me home, Alex.”
Alex nodded quickly in agreement, understanding the look in Bren’s eyes.
Within seconds they had said good bye to Bren’s friends and were on their
way out to Alex’s car. However once Alex had put Bren in the car and started
around for her own door, her mind began to clear as the realization of what
she was doing dawned on her. She was about to try to take advantage of her
charge. Alex mentally cursed at herself for even thinking along such lines
and regained her strength before getting into the driver’s side.
“So, where to, birthday girl?” she asked.
“Your house.” Bren purred, leaning over and running her hand along Alex’s
arm.
Alex tried not to react as she replied, “Okay. My place it is.” The ride
was a test of strength as Bren’s hands roamed freely over Alex’s body. When
they finally arrived, Alex was on fire. “All right. Here we are. Let me help
you out of the car.”
Alex assisted Bren into the house before the younger woman nearly collapsed
on the stairs. Figuring it would be easier, Alex simply picked Bren up in
her arms and carried her the rest of the way into the guestroom. Putting her
down on the bed, Alex began to step away but found herself trapped within
Bren’s arms, their faces mere inches from each other. Bren forced her mouth
up into Alex’s again, and Alex just didn’t have the emotional strength to
resist. Sliding onto the bed, Alex rolled over on top of Bren as they
deepened the kiss. When it broke Alex moved to Bren’s neck as she embraced
Bren tighter.
Bren was moaning lightly as she called Alex’s name, but then suddenly
Alex’s name went from cries of passion to moans of distress before Alex
found the back of her shirt covered in regurgitated drinks and food. Bren
began to cry as Alex slowly sat up. “Oh, Alex, I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.
Please don’t be angry.” she sobbed.
Alex looked down at Bren. She had managed to throw up all over Alex,
herself, and the bed linens. With sympathy in her eyes, Alex whispered, “I’m
not mad, honey. We better get you into the bathroom. Come on. Let’s get
these dirty clothes off you.” Alex took off her own soiled shirt before
helping Bren with her clothes. Taking her into the bathroom, Alex sat her
down and began to wipe off her face with a wet, warm washcloth. Once that
was complete, she said, “You stay here. I’m going to get us some clothes to
wear to bed, and put our dirty clothes and sheets in the washer. I’ll be
right back. Okay?” Bren nodded silently. Alex returned several minutes later
having put on clothes and put the items in the wash. When she came back into
the bathroom, Bren was rocking herself slowly back and forth as she cried.
Alex helped her into a loose t-shirt and boxer shorts before asking, “What’s
wrong, sweetie? You still feel sick?”
Bren shook her head. “I’ve ruined everything.” she mumbled.
“You haven’t ruined anything, Bren. It was just clothes and sheets. It’ll
all come out in the wash.”
“No. I’ve ruined my chance. You don’t want to sleep with me anymore.” she
sobbed hugging herself tighter.
Alex embraced her, brushing back Bren’s blonde hair. “Oh, Bren. We can’t
sleep together tonight. You’re sick, and you’re probably going to get sick
again.”
“You probably think I’m still a child by throwing up.” she pouted. “You
don’t want me now.”
“Bren, I don’t think of you as a child, and I never have. You had a lot to
drink tonight, more than you should have, and you got sick. It happens. Now
come on. You’re sleeping with me in my bed tonight. I want to be near you in
case you need anything.”
Alex helped Bren into the master bedroom and eased her into bed. Bren
didn’t fight her and promptly passed out before Alex could even turn out the
light. Alex stayed awake for several hours going over in her mind all that
happened. There was no longer a doubt how Bren felt about her, but Alex
wondered if Bren would admit to her feelings once she was sober again. Both
of them had hidden them for so long, but Alex longed to hear Bren tell her
how she felt. Alex drifted off pondering how to handle things in the
morning.
Alex got up late that morning to find Bren still in deep sleep. Leaving her
there, Alex went downstairs into the kitchen for some breakfast and to read
the paper. She wasn’t feeling all that great with the amount of alcohol she
had consumed herself. She could feel it still sitting in her stomach, so to
try and soak it up she made a hearty breakfast. Several hours later Bren
finally made her way downstairs. As she entered the kitchen, Alex gave her a
warm smile.
“Good afternoon.” she teased. “How are you feeling?”
“Not good.”
“Figures. Would you like something to eat? Maybe a little toast? That’ll
help your stomach.”
“Okay. I’ll try that.” she mumbled dropping into a kitchen chair. She
proceeded to drink Alex’s cup of coffee as Alex made her toast. Alex just
smiled at her, sensing that Bren remembered little or nothing of what had
taken place the previous night. Alex made herself another cup of coffee and
then brought Bren’s toast to the table.
“So, that was quite a bash you had.” Alex mentioned conversationally.
“I’m never drinking that much again. I can’t even remember all that
happened.”
“What’s the last thing you remember?”
“Dancing with you at the club.”
“Before or after the bathroom?”
“Before I guess. Why? Did something happen in the bathroom?”
“No. You just had a problem with your jeans, couldn’t get them back on
without a little help. No big deal.”
“Oh, God.” she mumbled in embarrassment. “Speaking of jeans, where are my
clothes?”
“In the laundry room. You threw up on us when we got home, so I washed them
for you.”
“Alex, I’m sorry to have been such a problem. You could’ve just stuck with
my friends. You didn’t have to bring me back here and care for me.”
“It wasn’t a problem. I didn’t mind doing it. You’re only twenty-one once.
I’m glad you had a good time.”
“I wish I could remember what a good time I had.”
“I’m sure it’ll come back to you.”
“I guess, but do you know who gave me this?” she inquired, flipping her
hair off her shoulder to expose a purpling bruise at the base of her neck.
Inwardly Alex groaned in displeasure, but she simply answered, “Yes. You
were making out with someone last night.”
“What? You’re kidding me? Who? I’ve never done something like that. Was she
at least cute?”
Alex shrugged. “She’s not my type, but I guess she was cute. You seemed to
be enjoying yourself which is what matters I suppose.”
“But, you have to know, Alex, I don’t normally do things like that. Did I
give her my number? Oh, God. I don’t want some strange girl I was making out
with in a club calling me.”
“Well, I wouldn’t exactly call her a stranger.” Alex mumbled into her
coffee, realizing this was beginning to scare Bren.
“No! You mean I was making out with one of my friends? Which one was it,
because I’m going to kill her.”
“Well,” Alex fumbled. “If that’s the case, I would prefer a bullet to the
back of the head.” she whispered, lowering her head shamefully.
Silence prevailed for several moments. “You mean to tell me you did this to
my neck?” Bren finally asked quietly.
“I didn’t mean to leave a mark. I also had a little too much to drink, and
I guess I was just overzealous.”
Again there was silence. “I woke up in your bed, Alex. Is there something
else that happened that I should know about?”
“Yes. As a matter of fact there’s much more, but to ease your mind, we
didn’t have sex if that’s what you were wondering. I wouldn’t do that to you
or any other woman for that matter.”
“I know you wouldn’t, Alex. I’m just really shocked right now. Okay? I
didn’t think you were interested in me that way. We made out last night?”
“You’re not the only one in shock, Bren. I didn’t think you were interested
in me either, but your friends told me otherwise. We shared something last
night, Bren, and whether or not you remember it, I think we should at least
talk about what happened.”
“I agree. Exactly what did happen?”
“Well, last night after the incident in the bathroom you were all over me
while we were dancing. We really were getting into each other, and then we
danced to this slow song. I wanted to kiss you, Bren. I wanted to so much,
but I thought it wouldn’t be right with the state you were in and our
history. However right at that moment you kissed me. You kissed me with more
passion than any other woman has shown me in my entire life, and I just
melted. When we broke apart, you asked me to take you home. In the car you
left no doubt about your intentions for when we got back here. You had me in
a state of frenzy with the way you kept touching me. Once we got home, I
carried you up to the guestroom with every intent on leaving you there to
sleep it off, but we started kissing again, and I just lost all my
self-control. I should’ve been stronger, but I couldn’t resist the way you
kept kissing and touching me. That’s when I gave you that hickey
accidentally. We were on our way to doing something we probably would’ve
regretted, but then you threw up all over yourself, the bed, and me. You
were upset about it, but I assured you it was okay. I changed you, and then
we went to sleep in my room.”
Bren lowered her head into her hands mumbling in embarrassment, “Kill me
now. Please just kill me now. I can’t believe I did that.”
Alex got up from her seat and got down on her knees in front of Bren’s
chair. Taking Bren’s hands away from her face, Alex held them in her own.
“Bren, there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you, but I haven’t been
able to. I have found myself falling in love with you. You’re everything I
ever wanted in a woman, but I was scared to tell you, because I didn’t want
you to think you owed me anything. You don’t owe me anything, Bren, nothing
at all. Everything I’ve done for you is because I wanted to do it not
because I wanted something in return, but I can’t help the way I feel. Last
night was better than my wildest fantasies, Bren. I’ve always wanted to be
that close to you, but I could never really imagine it until last night.
Last night was perfection.”
Bren took one of her hands from Alex’s grasp to stroke Alex’s dark hair
affectionately. “Alex, I threw up on you.”
Alex nodded. “And I still loved every moment. I’ll understand if you don’t
share my feelings, and I don’t want you to think that you have to say
anything. I just couldn’t keep it to myself after last night. It would’ve
been impossible.”
Bren pressed her fingers to Alex’s lips. “Shh, Alex. That’s enough. I’ve
heard enough.”
Alex moved back to her own chair and stared into her coffee. Bren was
quiet, too quiet for her comfort, but Alex was determined not to force Bren
into talking about her feelings. After an extended silence, Alex said, “So,
maybe I should just go get dressed and take you back to school. You’re
clothes are in the laundry room.” Alex stood and began to walk away.
“Alex.” Bren softly called. “Wait. I have something to say.” Alex turned to
find Bren right behind her. “Come on. Let’s sit down in the living room.”
Bren escorted Alex to the couch and sat them down. Pointing to the far
corner of the room, she asked, “Do you remember what was over there when I
first moved in here?”
“A piano.”
“With pictures of Megan and you sitting on top of it. What’s there now?”
“A desk.”
“The antique roll top desk you bought for me while I was in high school, so
I would have a place to do my homework. What’s on top?”
“Pictures of you and me.”
“That’s right. Pictures of us together. What does that say to you?” Alex
shrugged. “Well, let me tell you what it says to me, Alex. It says that you
love me. You’ve loved me for a long time, and I’ve known that, but I knew
you were going to have a problem with us being together given our history.
You’ve never been in my dorm room, but let me assure you. There are probably
as many pictures of us there as there are here. I don’t know which one of my
loudmouth friends told you how I felt about you, but I’m actually glad
somebody did. I knew it wouldn’t come out right if I said anything. The
truth is, Alex, I’ve loved you for a long time as well. I know it’s hard not
to love you because of what you’ve done for me, but I’ve come to love you in
spite of it. When you first propositioned me four years ago, I wasn’t sure
what I was in for. I thought I could trust you, but I wasn’t completely
sure. However I knew my position wasn’t going to get any worse, and I
decided to go for it. That day when we came back on the train, you got upset
over losing Megan, and as much as you tried to hide it, I saw the tears in
your eyes. It was at that moment that I knew I had made the right choice. I
knew I could trust you, and I also knew that I actually liked you. Over the
first few months I grew to really like you as a friend, but then I went to
college. It was then I started to realize that I missed you like crazy
during the week. I found myself driving by your house and even coming in
when I knew you were at work just to feel close to you. I’d sit right where
we’re sitting now, and I’d watch the transition taking place across the
room. One day I was just sitting here, and it dawned on me that I was in
love with you. I had the strong feeling that you felt the same for me, but I
knew that you would never say anything, and I felt it was best not to say
anything either due to the risk of having you think that I was trying to
return the favors you had given to me. Years passed, and I loved you from
afar, never thinking that you might actually date again, and then I saw you
with Kelly that night. I was so hurt, but at the same time I knew I couldn’t
expect you to wait forever. I wasn’t planning on saying anything to you
about this until after I graduated, but after last night I guess now was as
good a time as any. I do love you, Alex. For as long as I’ve known you,
you’ve only done one deceptive thing, and I understand why you did it, so
I’ve forgiven you for it. Other than that you’ve been a perfect friend and
companion, and I want the chance to take it further if you do.”
“I do want that chance, Bren. What one deceptive thing are you talking
about? I’ve haven’t done anything wrong.”
“I didn’t say it was wrong, just deceptive. You’ve been paying for my
tuition all along and making the financial aid office tell me I was on
scholarship.”
“How did you find that out?”
“I have a friend in the financial aid office. I asked to look at my file.
It was right there in print with explicit instructions on how you wanted it
presented.”
“Bren, I just didn’t want you to think I was doing it for any reason other
than wanting to.”
“I know that, but I knew at that moment that I had to say something. You’ve
given me so much, Alex, and I’m not talking about all the money you’ve given
to me and my education over the last four years. You’ve believed in me when
no one else did. You gave me a chance and unconditional support. You loved
me like I’ve never been loved in my entire life, and I love you for it and
yet in spite of it. I want so much to be the woman you want to come home to
at the end of a day. I want the opportunity to know love the way only you
could show me.”
“I want that too.” Alex confessed. “I guess it’s decided then. We’re going
to give this a shot, but if you ever change your mind, I want you to tell
me.”
“I will, but I don’t think that’s going to happen, Alex.” she answered
snuggling closer to her on the couch.
They sat for a long time in silence cuddled together before Alex asked.
“Have you given any thought to your plans after school?”
“Actually, yes. I’ve been looking for a job, and a couple of friends and I
have talked about getting a place together, but nothing is decided yet. Now
that you know everything I don’t know where we stand.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, I mean as far as us having a relationship. Do you want me to live
with you or my friends?”
“I hadn’t thought about it. I’ve always waited a little while before moving
in with a woman, but this case is different. I wouldn’t be opposed to you
living with me, but there are some responsibilities that go along with that
on both our parts. I guess it would be a matter of deciding if we could
handle that. We don’t have to decide now.”
“I would like to live with you, Alex, if I had a choice.”
“Let’s think it over for a few days. I think I would like that too. For now
though, we should focus on us. Have you thought about what you wanted for a
graduation present?”
“Well, yeah. Last semester I wrote my mother a letter, and she wrote me
back. We’ve been talking through letters and e-mail since, and I think I’d
like to go see her.”
“Well, that’s a surprise. I didn’t know you had done that.”
“I wasn’t sure what you’d think about it, but I really wanted to do it. I
still love her, Alex, and I miss her.”
“I understand. She’s your mother. You should be able to reconcile if you
want. I think that would be nice, but I am concerned about your physical and
emotional safety. Last time you were there things were less than perfect. I
would worry about you while you were gone, but I wouldn’t try to stop you if
it’s what you really wanted.”
“I was hoping you’d go with me, Alex. I’m still cautious, but I’d like to
try. Would you go with me?”
“Of course. I’d be happy to.”
“I was hoping that maybe we could go before graduation. Will you have any
time?”
“I’ll make time, Bren. Just tell me when you want to go.”
“Why don’t we go the first weekend of May? That’s only two weeks from now.”
“All right. It’s a date. Why don’t you let her know we’ll be coming?”
“Okay.” Bren replied finally pulling herself away from Alex’s arms. “As
much as I’m enjoying this, I should probably get back to school.”
“Why’s that? You have big Saturday night plans?”
“No. Not yet but I don’t want to be in your way. I’m sure you’re busy.”
“Actually, I’m not. I was just going to hang around here. Maybe you’d like
to go out tonight? I’ll take you anywhere you want to go.”
“You mean like on a real date?”
“Yeah, a real date. What do you say? Will you go out with me?”
Bren smiled. “I’d love to. I really should get going then. I have to get
ready, figure out what to wear and where to go.”
Alex smiled. “All right. I’ll take you home.” she stated helping Bren off
the sofa.
That evening Bren and Alex went to the traditional dinner and movie before
strolling through Bren’s campus to enjoy the summer evening. When Alex
escorted Bren back to her dorm room, she hovered around the door as Bren
unlocked it. Bren smiled shyly as she asked, “Would you like to come in?”
“Sure.” Alex took Bren’s hand and let the younger woman led her into the
room, shutting the door behind them. Alex stood near the door waiting to see
what Bren had in mind now that they were in the privacy of her room.
Bren gave another grin before inquiring, “Can I get you something to drink?
You can sit if you’d like.”
Alex followed Bren’s gesture toward the single bed and took the offered
seat. “A drink would be nice. Whatever you’re having.”
Bren nodded before opening her small fridge and retrieving two bottles of
beer. She then handed them to Alex before lighting a few candles in her room
and turning on soft music. Lastly she turned off the overhead light, leaving
them in a soft glow. Taking a seat on the bed next to Alex, Bren began to
sip her beverage and study Alex.
Alex looked around the room as she pretended not to notice Bren’s stare.
She took in the pictures of the two of them all over the bookcase and the
stacks of books piled on the desk in an obvious attempt to look neat. Alex
drank her beer leisurely as she listened to the music Bren had chosen. She
knew it well, one of her favorite artists singing the melodic songs of R&B.
Finally Bren quietly inquired, “What are you thinking about right now?”
Alex shrugged meeting Bren’s eyes. “I didn’t realize you liked R&B.”
“Well, I know you like it. I listen to it sometimes when I think of you. It
can be very sensual but also relaxing.” Bren mentioned taking a slow sip
from her bottle.
Alex watched in interest. “You know it’s funny. I don’t quite know what to
do or say here. You would think I’ve never been on a date before.” She
stated laughing nervously at the situation.
Bren just smiled. “Do whatever you want, Alex. I think I know you well
enough to know what you’re thinking right now. It’ll be okay. I’ll let you.”
she whispered leaning in closer to Alex. Alex’s pulse jumped realizing that
Bren probably could read her thoughts. The ambiance was putting her in the
mood to become more intimate with her date, but before she could even
respond, Bren said, “Then again maybe I should just take the initiative.”
Alex reflexively closed her eyes as their lips met in a soft kiss. She let
Bren have the lead, and soon they were engaged in deep exploration of each
others mouths. Alex moaned in pleasure at the feel of Bren’s hands over her
back, pulling her closer. She had often fantasized about the blonde, even as
much as she felt guilty for it, so to feel her was better than any dream she
had imagined. Bren pushed them further, putting their beers on the bedside
table and pulling Alex down on top of her as they continued the game of
acquainting themselves with each other. Even as much as Alex wanted to go
farther, she kept her hands on the outside of Bren’s clothing at first and
was surprised when Bren began to unbutton her shirt. Pulling back slightly
Alex whispered, “Wait a minute, Bren. Are you sure we’re ready to go
further?” She took Bren’s hands from the top button of her dress shirt.
“Don’t you want to?”
“Of course I do. However I’m not sure we should yet. I want it to be
special for us.”
“It will be, because it’ll be with you.”
“I think we should wait a little longer. I don’t think this is the right
place. I’m a little too old to be doing this in a dorm room and then having
to sleep together afterwards in this tiny twin bed.”
Bren backed off a little. “Maybe you’re right. We should’ve gone back to
your house. We still could.”
“Let’s just stay here for now. We’ll have plenty of time for all that. I
promise.”
Bren smiled. “I’ve just waited so long. It seems like forever.”
Alex returned the smile as she caressed Bren’s cheek. “You are so
beautiful, Bren. I know there are so many people out there who would love to
have a chance at you. I’m honored that you’ve chosen me.” Alex rolled off
Bren and onto her side. Bren curled up into her, and they were quiet as they
held each other. After a while Alex asked, “Bren, have you told your mother
about me at all?”
“No. Not really. I mean I told her who you were and that you had helped me
get back on my feet, but I didn’t tell her about my feelings for you. I’m
not really sure how she’d react.”
“Does it matter to you what she thinks?”
Bren shrugged. “I know it shouldn’t, but she’s still my mother. I still
want her to be proud of me for some reason.”
“I’m sure she is. You’re quite the resourceful woman, and you’ve persevered
through such harsh trials. I’m proud of you. You’re stronger than I am.”
“I don’t think so. I just did what I thought I had to do. You were there to
help.”
“I’m glad I was, because otherwise I’d be missing out on this right now. I
am so content just holding you.”
“Do you want to watch tv or something?”
“Not necessarily. I’m okay where I am. Do you?”
“No. I just thought I’d offer.”
“I could hold you all night, Bren, and not tire of it. This is bliss to
me.”
“I’d like that. Stay here with me tonight.”
“Here in this twin bed? I don’t think so.”
“Please.” Bren pouted, giving Alex a pitiful glance. “I’ll give you all the
space that you want. I just don’t want this night to end.”
Alex demurely grinned. “Oh, this could be trouble. If I give in to your
pouting now, then you’ll know you have a weapon to use against me.” she
teased. Bren gave her best sad impression, making Alex laugh. “Okay, I’ll
stay. My back is going to hate me in the morning though. Maybe we should
think about getting ourselves ready for bed. What can I sleep in?”
“I have the perfect thing.” Bren said sliding off the bed and moving to the
dresser. She opened the second drawer and pulled out a t-shirt and pajama
pants that had once belonged to Alex. “These things still probably fit you.”
“So, that’s where they went. Those are my favorite pair of pajamas pants. I
guess that’s what I get for making you do my laundry.”
“Why don’t you go ahead and use the bathroom first? My stuff is in there,
so use anything you want.” Bren said as Alex rose to gather her sleeping
attire. Alex nodded before going into the bathroom that Bren shared with
another person. When Alex returned Bren was in a midriff tank top and boxer
shorts that she had rolled down at the top exposing all of her stomach.
Passing by Alex, she brushed her fingers along Alex’s arm saying, “I’ll be
right back.”
Alex could only nod as her eyes lingered over Bren’s backside as she went
into the bathroom. Once she was alone, Alex let out a sigh. She knew Bren
was intentionally dressing provocatively to drive her crazy. Not really
knowing what the sleeping arrangements were going to be, she hovered around
the desk looking at Bren’s books until Bren returned. “So, what side do you
want?” Bren came to her, embracing her around the waist. She leaned up to
kiss Alex softly. Alex moaned at the gentleness as her arms came around
Bren’s bare back, her fingers slipping under the hem of the top. Bren deftly
slid up Alex’ shirt enough so that their bare abdomens could touch. When
Alex first felt Bren’s stomach grinding lightly into hers, she groaned. “You
feel so good, Bren.” Alex whispered as she leaned into her neck.
“So do you, Alex. I want to feel your skin all over mine. Please.” she
begged.
Alex knew she couldn’t deny Bren anything, so without further discussion,
she pulled her own t-shirt off, leaving her naked from the waist up. Then
her hands removed Bren’s top. Alex broke away slightly to look at the
blonde’s body. Her hands instinctively went to the younger woman’s breasts
and began to lightly stroke them. Alex watched as Bren’s eyes closed and her
head dropped back slightly. “You are so beautiful, Bren. I’ve always wanted
to touch you like this.” Bren whimpered, but her hands came up to Alex’s
shoulders and then trailed down until they were touching Alex the same way.
Alex gasped. She hadn’t let any woman touch her this way in years, but
Bren’s hands felt so good over her skin.
A few minutes passed before Bren suggested breathlessly, “Let’s go to bed.”
Alex smiled at her. “I want you so much, Bren, but I really feel strongly
about us not having sex tonight. I would love to just continue touching you
and holding you like this. Okay?”
Bren nodded. “Okay. I’d like that too.”
With that agreement Alex pulled Bren over to the bed and lowered herself
onto it, so Bren was lying on top of her as they continued to kiss and
caress each other. That night they fell asleep curled around each other in
the small bed, feeling more content than either of them ever had.
Continued Part 3: