Garden: A Revised Tale by Another Author

A small flat stone skimmed the surface, kissing the water once, twice, three times before it sank to the bottom. Small concentric waves gently rippled outwards from each touch point, colliding and combining with the next, marring the idyllic calm of the pond. The soft lapping of the water against the shore soothed her. Rebekah sighed and sat at the edge of the pond, pulling her knees tight to her chest and resting her head against them as she watched the ripples slow and the blue water become still.

Behind her, Adam lay on the ground, an arm crossed over his eyes and a soft but steady snore coming from his open mouth. As always, he fell asleep after their coupling, happy and sated, while she was left with a feeling of disquiet. Wiggling her toes in the soft grass, her brow furrowed as she tried to understand why she was sitting here on the bank of the pond throwing stones when she should be napping beneath the warm sun beside Adam.

Picking up another stone, she ran her thumb along its smooth surface, lost in thought. She'd been here for such a short time, but already she was bored. Day in and day out, things remained the same, he remained the same, she remained the same. The sun and breezes were always warm and comforting, the waters always calm, the trees and grass always green, the flowers and fruits always bloomed in a riot of colors, the songs and the calls of the birds created a comforting harmony. Everything was perfect, but she couldn't escape her unrest.

A loud rasping noise startled her from her musings. Her head turned in annoyance, her fingers tightening on the stone. She watched as Adam shifted in his sleep, the rough sounds coming from his throat grating on her ears. Narrowing her eyes, she tried to block out the sound and regarded the sleeping figure. Long and lean, skin golden from the sun, he stretched out on the grass. She had to smile while she watched him sleeping, his face slack and his body relaxed. So often, when he was awake, he looked perplexed and unsure. She thought he was probably as uncertain of her as she was of him. Both were a mystery to one another, but he did try to understand her - when she pushed him.

Flinging the stone into the pond with all her might, it crashed through the surface, its impact causing violent waves to roll outwards as the stone sank to the bottom of the clear blue water. Pushing herself up from the grass, she walked over to his reclining form.

Nudging him with her toe, she asked in a soft voice, "Adam, are you awake?" He grunted in response, his brow tightening beneath his arm. Another nudge. "Adam, are you up?" She grinned as his arm pulled back, his eyes squinting in the sunlight. She moved so that her shadow fell over his face and he blinked at her in confusion.

"Wha ... Rebekah, I was sleeping," he complained, his voice petulant.

"There was a noise," she began. "I thought it was an animal."

"I don't hear anything."

"It must have run away then."

Rebekah sat on the grass beside him, her fingers absently plucking at the grass. Adam rolled to his side, propping his head in his hand. The perplexed look was back, his blue eyes curious but cautious beneath his tousled blond hair.

"Since you're up, why don't we go for a walk? We've never been past the big woods beyond the river," she suggested. "We can see what's over there."

"Why?" he asked. "Everything we could ever want is right here."

Rebekah looked at him, seeing the confusion in his eyes. He was asking honestly; he wanted to understand. How could she explain it to him when she didn't know if she could explain it to herself? With a sigh, she patted his hand. "Just because, I guess."

A frown crossed his face and she leaned in to kiss his cheek, "Why don't you go fishing? I'm rather hungry after this afternoon."

An enthusiastic smile spread across his face, erasing his scowl. He bounced to his feet, eager to find his fishing spear. He began to make his way across the meadow, but stopped abruptly, turned and came back to where she sat watching him in amused curiosity. Bending down, he grabbed her chin and gave her a quick hard kiss. When he pulled back, she saw the warmth in his eyes.

"You had a good time, didn't you?" he asked tenderly.

"Yes, I did," she answered shyly.

"Good." His voice swelled with pride and with another quick kiss on her cheek, he straightened and started back across the grass.

Watching him enter the woods at the edge of the meadow, a hint of sadness crossed her face. He tried so hard.

***

Stumbling out of the thicket, Rebekah stopped and stared in disbelief. Ahead of her, a massive construct of white marble loomed, rising from the leaf strewn ground. Stepping into the small clearing, she craned her neck to see the top. A few steps across the grass and she was standing before it, her hand flat against the warm, white stone. The solid slab of smooth rock continued as far as her eyes could see. She doubted that she'd be able to reach the top even if she stood on Adam's shoulders. Rebekah frowned slightly. A wall. An enormous wall.

Does Adam know this is here? Would he tell me if he did? Questions swirled in Rebekah's mind as she ran her hands along the wall. Why is it here? Who made it? Is it supposed to keep us in or to keep something out?

Her brow furrowed in thought, Rebekah began to follow the wall, her fingers tracing along the sun-warmed stone. She walked along the base, fascinated and intrigued, her mind churning over the mystery. The sun was well past its zenith, readying to set for the day when she came to a halt. Ahead of her was a massive tree; its gnarled trunk seemed to flow out of the stark white marble. Heavy boughs hung down, the lush green foliage obscuring the wall behind them. The crown of the tree stood well above the top of the wall, stretching to touch the sky itself.

As she approached, the sweet smell of apples filled the air. Around the base of the tree, ripe red fruit lay where they had fallen from the laden boughs. Standing in front of the trunk, Rebekah was amazed at its sheer size; her arms couldn't span its width, let alone its circumference. The wood was dark and rough against her hand. She spied a low hanging branch and wasn't able to resist. She latched onto it, pulling herself into the boughs. Hidden behind the lush green leaves, Rebekah shivered in the cooler air of the shaded haven. The smell of apples was stronger, a rich and mellow aroma that caused her stomach to growl as she realized how late it was. She looked longingly upwards to the higher branches but the thought of Adam waiting impatiently for her return made her turn back. With her head down, watching her footing as she made her way, she didn't notice the rustling or the dark head that peered out from the leaves above, watching in interest as she scrambled down the trunk.

***

"I found a wall today."

"Are you going to finish that?"

She handed him the last of the fruit. An exasperated look crossed her face as he grabbed it.

"A wall, Adam. It goes on forever."

"Sure, it's always been there."

"Why didn't you tell me about it?"

"What does it matter? Everything we want is here."

"How can you be so sure?"

"We don't need to go past the wall. What were you doing all the way out there? There's no paths."

"I was walking."

"You shouldn't be out there. It's not safe."

"What are you talking about?"

"A demon," he spat the word out in disgust. "Stay away; there's a demon beyond the wall. You don't want to fall into its clutches." Adam leaned forward and grabbed Rebekah's arm, pulling her close as he continued. "Don't go back there. The demon will only hurt you. We have everything we want here - our hearts' desires are answered here."

Rebekah tried to pull away; the pressure of his fingers was causing her pain. He tightened his grip and pulled her forward until their foreheads touched.

"There are only two rules. Stay away from the wall and don't go near that tree," Adam warned.

"What tree?" she gasped, her breath caught in her throat as Adam's eyes burned into hers.

"The apple tree near the wall. Stay away from it. The demon ..." His eyes clouded for a moment and his voice faded. Rebekah pulled her arm again, this time releasing it from Adam's slackened grasp.

He looked up at her, pain and sadness swirling in the dark blue depths of his eyes. "Please, Rebekah, don't go back there."

Confused by Adam's sudden anger, she cradled her arm against her chest. He looked disconsolately at her huddled figure, lowered his head and moved away. The evening breeze snapped up his mumbled apology before it could reach her ears.

***

Rebekah stood beneath the spreading boughs of the apple tree, her eyes following the edge of the trunk where it burst from the wall. The knotty wood and the smooth marble melded perfectly, not a chink could be discerned -- the two were fused completely. Adam's words from last night echoed in her mind.

"Are you going to stand there staring all day, or are you coming up?" an amused voice floated down.

Rebekah's heart leapt to her throat. Her eyes widened as she scanned the branches above her, searching for the source of that voice. Leaves rustled and parted as a figure swung from branch to branch and landed lightly in front of the stunned woman. Stepping back, Rebekah stared unabashedly at the dark haired being before her.

Standing tall and squaring her shoulders, the smiling creature allowed Rebekah's gaze to wander from head to toe while she made her own appraisal. Rebekah was unable to stop her eyes from travelling across every inch of the woman before her. And a woman she was; Rebekah had seen her own reflection often enough in the clear pond and explored the shapes and swells of her own body to know that.

She was tall and lithe, her body running to angles where Rebekah's flared in softer curves. Muscles, long and lean, flexed as she shifted under Rebekah's scrutiny. Despite the warm sun, her skin was unblemished and as pale as moonlight.

Rebekah dragged her eyes along the sculpted thighs to where they met. Her gaze caressed along the smooth belly, reaching the breasts, partially concealed by the long, midnight black hair. With a short laugh, the woman swept her hair back to reveal the small mounds, their centers a dark rose against her fair skin, their tips hardening slightly in the breeze. Rebekah's eyes widened in surprise at the action, and with a flush, focused on the face of the woman before her.

Framed by dark hair, the angles of stranger's cheeks were softened by the wide smile that touched her almond-shaped eyes. Once Rebekah met the woman's penetrating gaze, she was unable to pull away draw by the easy humor and curiosity she saw reflected in the dark eyes..

"Who .... What ..." the words tumbled from Rebekah's lips as she tried to comprehend what was happening.

"Adam didn't tell you about me?" the stranger asked.

"A demon ... he said a demon was beyond the wall," Rebekah flushed again when she saw the quick flash of anger cross the other woman's face.

"Demon?" she questioned, incredulous. "What does he know about demons?"

"Who are you?"

"Lilith. I was his wife," she spat. "For a day."

***

Concealed behind the dense foliage of the apple tree, the women reclined on two large branches. They had been in the tree for most of the day, talking, laughing and eating apples as they relaxed in the quiet refuge. The sun was going to set soon and Rebekah knew that she had to get back to Adam before darkness fell or he would worry about her. With a sad look, she sat up on the branch.

"Will you be here tomorrow, Lilith?" she asked hopefully.

"Of course," she assured. "I've been waiting for you to find the tree."

"How did you know that I would?"

"I hoped that you might be the same as me, looking for more. Tomorrow, I want to show you what's beyond the wall - if you like."

A slight tremor of fear passed through Rebekah at the mention of going over the wall. An image of Adam gripping her arm, his voice stern in warning flashed through her mind. Adam had told her that a demon lived beyond the wall, but looking at the woman waiting for her answer, she began to wonder what else he had been hiding from her. Her curiosity rose and she smiled at the thought of scaling the rest of the tree in order to see what was on the other side.

***

Climbing the boughs turned out to me more strenuous than Rebekah had expected. She lagged behind Lilith, panting slightly as she pulled herself up on another large branch. Above her, Lilith paused and looked back to see Rebekah resting in the crook between a branch and the trunk.

"Just a bit further," she promised, reaching down her hand. Rebekah's fingers grasped hold and she allowed herself to be coaxed into continuing the climb.

Cresting the wall, Lilith paused. She stood on top of the white marble and looked back, a serious expression on her face.

"Are you sure?" she asked. Rebekah met her eyes and smiled. She stepped from the tree branch onto the wall, her hand grasping Lilith's. Lilith squeezed her hand in return and then drew her towards the boughs on the other side of the wall. Climbing down was easier and they both swung to the ground.

Rebekah looked around and a slight disappointment washed over her. The grass, the trees, the flowers - they were indistinguishable from those she had just left. An ominous rumble sounded in the distance and Rebekah stopped, searching the sky. In the distance, grey clouds were gathering above the grass plain. Sudden warmth along her back startled her. She could feel Lilith's breast brushing against her arm. Her body flushed and she leaned back, the skin against her own stirred a longing deep within her and she savoured the touch. Resting her head against the shoulder behind her, Rebekah felt comforted by the taller woman's presence; the heat from where their bodies met spread deliciously through the rest of her.

"Hmm, looks like there's a storm brewing. We should get to shelter before it breaks. You're in for a treat." Lilith's voice caressed her ear, and Rebekah's breath caught as her muscles tensed in response.

Stepping back, Lilith grabbed her hand and pulled her along, following a rough trail towards the trees. Shivering slightly as the cool breeze licked along her skin, she rushed to keep up with Lilith's stride. Noticing her quickened steps, Lilith slowed and they walked side by side into the woods.

***

Rebekah stood just inside the mouth of the cave, captivated by the crash of lightning and thunder. Rain beat down, soaking into the earth and pooling around rocks near their refuge. The strong wind battered branches of nearby trees and swept past the cave, leaving her shivering. Returning to the small fire Lilith had made, Rebekah sank to the furs spread over the cold stone floor and held her hands close to the dancing flames.

"Not quite the soft breezes and gentle rains that you're used to, is it?" Lilith asked from where she sat, tending the small blaze. Rebekah looked back to the mouth of the cave; a tremendous flash of light illuminated the inside of the cavern.

"It's so angry out there," she mused.

"Not angry," Lilith corrected. "Wild and untamed."

Rebekah looked at the dark-haired woman in curiosity.

"Everything behind that wall is safe. The flowers bloom in neat rows, the sun shines every day, and everything lives in harmony. Out here, beyond the wall, you never know what will happen next. There are always new things to see, to experience, to survive. It's terrifying at times, and beautiful at others."

"It sounds so dangerous."

"It's exhilarating," Lilith countered, moving to sit next to her. "Tell the truth, Rebekah, why did you wander off the paths? How did you find the tree? In the Garden, you have all that you could want. Something was missing, wasn't it? Something that you needed but couldn't seem to find?"

Rebekah searched the flames for answers as she contemplated Lilith's words. There was something missing. She had realized that early on, as she sat by the pond skipping stones while Adam slept. She wanted more, but didn't know what more was. Perhaps beyond the wall she might find the answers she couldn't find in the Garden.

"Adam is happy ...." she started.

"But you're not Adam. If he's happy, good for him. That doesn't mean you are."

"He tries so hard to make me happy."

"But he doesn't, does he?"

Blushing, Rebekah hung her head, and her long blonde hair covered her face. "No."

"There should be more to life than picking fruit, fishing, and trying to stick it in the first available woman," Lilith snorted in derision. Rebekah couldn't help but laugh. "I'm sure that there's something missing for him as well, but he hasn't come looking yet. He's not the one who found the tree. "

"Is that why you left? He didn't fill your need?"

"He barely got a chance," Lilith laughed. "We argued from the moment we saw one another. I left in a rage before the sun had even set. "

"So you've found something to fill your need here?"

"I've found I can do it better than he could," she laughed. Craning her neck to look past Rebekah, she smiled and jumped to her feet. Pulling on Rebekah's arm, she rushed to the entrance of the cave. The storm had passed. The dark clouds were rolling off in the distance, and the sky before them was a clear blue. The warm sun reflected off every surface, making the expanse before them almost too bright to look at.

"Now we can explore." Lilith's grin was infectious.

***

They spent the morning exploring what lay beyond the wall. The terrain was so different from the Garden. Hills and valleys gave way to rocky crags and steep ravines. The trees and flowers were similar, but they grew haphazardly, riots of color appearing in the least expected places. When the sun was at its peak, they stopped beside a shallow pool fed by a thin waterfall that tumbled down a rocky recess. Eating fruit that they had found on their travels, the women lounged by the water in a companionable silence.

Sleepy from the food and walking, Rebekah lay back in the soft grass and closed her eyes. Hearing a soft splash, she peeked out of one eye to see Lilith entering the shallow pool. As tempting as the cool water was, the warm sun and the soft grass were soporific and all she could do was watch as the other woman stood beneath the stream of falling water. Discomfited by her curiosity, Rebekah narrowed her eyes to slits to watch the water to course over Lilith's body.

***

Tilting her head, Lilith ran her fingers through the long dark hair, allowing the water to course over her body. She stopped for a moment and looked towards the clearing. Despite the cool water falling across her skin, she flushed at the sight of Rebekah lying on the grass, eyes closed against the bright afternoon sun. She smiled and stepped out of the falling stream of water, the sunlight glistening on her wet skin.

Lilith's hands cupped her breasts, fingers caressing the small mounds. Pressing the nipples between her thumb and fingers, she hissed in pleasure. Lilith closed her eyes while her fingers pulled at the hardened nubs, twisting and pinching, her breath coming faster and harder. She moved one hand from her breast, sliding it across her taut belly and slipping across the dark hair that covered her mons. Her body trembled as she moved her fingers between the lips, tracing their length. Her jaw clenched when her fingers slid between the slick labia, spreading them open. A finger circled and teased within the swollen flesh. Slow lazy circles became faster, tighter as the hand on her breast continued to massage and knead.

Her hand slid deeper, her thumb circling her engorged clitoris as her fingers now circled her opening. A finger slipped in and her knees buckled in response. Her finger plunged in and out as her thumb began to flick back and forth. Her hand slid farther down, the palm now rubbing against her clit as two fingers began to churn within her. Faster and harder, she drove her fingers as deep as they could go, her movements growing frantic and wild.

With her head thrown back, her mouth opened in a silent scream. Her legs shook, knees locked to keep herself upright as her body undulated in response to the pleasure that crashed over her. Her skin flushed and rosy, Lilith's breathing began to slow. Opening her eyes, her half-lidded gaze fell on Rebekah. A slow smile played across her face as their eyes locked.

***

Rebekah flushed in embarrassment as her hand continued to move between her own legs, fingers circling and plunging, mimicking Lilith. The sensations that were building within her were unbearable, but she couldn't stop. Her fingers were slick with her juices as she began to thrust, first one, then two, then three. Splayed on her back, her head turned towards the pool, she was ensnared by Lilith's blazing eyes. She was helpless before the frenzy that ran through her, her muscles tightening, a burning heat swirling in her core. Her hips rose from the ground, her back arching and she was overcome. With a groan, she rode the waves of sensation as they broke around her, consuming her, releasing her.

***

When Rebekah returned to the Garden that evening, her mind was churning. Lilith had emerged from the water and they said nothing of what had happened. They continued their explorations, Lilith telling stories of her first experiences alone, beyond the wall. Some stories made Rebekah smile, while others made her gasp. Slowly, the comfort that she felt in the woman's presence returned. As they approached the wall before sunset, Lilith grabbed her hand as she reached for the lowest branch. Rebekah flushed as Lilith's dark eyes searched her face. Embarrassed, she cast her eyes down only to have her Lilith grasp her chin, raising her head.

"Never be ashamed, Rebekah," she whispered. "You deserve to be happy."

Tears welled in Rebekah's eyes and she grasped the nearest limb to pull herself into the tree. As she climbed the branches, she could feel Lilith's gaze on her. She continued her ascent, disappearing into the thick foliage, not daring a backwards glance. Biting her lip as she reached the top of the wall, she paused. The Garden spread out before her, its ordered rows and paths welcoming her home.

Late into the night, Rebekah sat beside the pond, staring at the pale moonlight reflected on the calm water. Closing her eyes, she saw smooth skin stretched out before her, warm and supple, the muscles beneath rippling. "Lilith."

Behind her, Adam rose from where he sat, concealed, watching her with concern. His face contorted in anger and pain as he left the meadow, the sound of his steps masked by the wracking sobs coming from the figure beside the pond.

***

The next morning, Rebekah sat on the other side of the wall. Unable to sleep, she had waited for dawn, setting out for the tree as the sky began to lighten. Scaling the branches as the first rays of sun began to penetrate the foliage, her mind was numb from the thoughts that had assailed her throughout the dark hours of the night. She sat against the wall, watching for Lilith to emerge from the forest. Impatient, she rose and considered the copse of trees before her. She found the path that they had taken to Lilith's cave and began to make her way deeper into the woods.

The morning light was weak beneath the canopy of leaves and, without Lilith's guiding hand, she was unsure if this was the right trail. Hearing noises ahead, she hurried along the indistinct path, eager to find Lilith. Breaking from the trees, she entered a small clearing.

Before her, a wolf and its pups surrounded a bloody carcass. The pups wrestled in the middle of the clearing while their parent tore at the belly of the rabbit. Excited barks and mock growls echoed in the quiet morning while Rebekah looked on with delight. Stepping forward with a smile at their antics, she stretched out her hand. Playful yips turned to yelps and the older wolf's head swung from its meal to regard her. Jaws snapping, the creature let out a low growl and leapt towards Rebekah.

Bursting from the trees with an angry cry, Lilith crashed into the side of the wolf, throwing it off its course. Landing in the scattered leaves, the animal lay stunned for a moment. Scrabbling to her feet, Lilith ran towards Rebekah, grabbing her hand and pulling her back into the woods. Reaching a tree, she began to push Rebekah towards the low branches, urging her to climb and casting worried glances behind her.

Lilith's voice and hands forcing her to grasp the branch roused Rebekah from her confusion and she began pulling herself higher into the tree. She could hear Lilith beneath her and she glanced back towards the clearing, a short scream escaping as she saw the wolf barrelling towards them. Reaching down, she grabbed the Lilith's wrist, yanking her arm, dragging her to the higher branches. The tree shook with the wolf's impact as it threw itself against the trunk, front paws scraping against the wood and its gaping maw snapping at the air where Lilith's leg had been moments before.

"Rebekah, what were you thinking?" Lilith's voice was sharp as she turned to the other woman. "The wolf was feeding with its young -- it thought you were threatening them."

"The animals in the Garden never ..."

"We aren't in the Garden. You aren't the steward out here. Nature has its own rules and you have to respect that."

Rebekah let out a strangled sob, her body beginning to shake. Tears spilled and realization hit her as she watched the wolf continue its barrage against the tree.

"Would it have killed me?" she asked in a small voice.

Taking Rebekah's hands in her own, Lilith looked seriously into her eyes. "Yes. It was trying to protect its pups.

"There are two very important things to remember - respect and protect. On this side of the wall, you have to learn to live with nature -- you can't always bend it to your will. You have to respect all that goes on around you, because you're just one of the many things that live out here. And you have to protect what means the most to you."

Wrapping her arms around Rebekah, Lilith settled back against the trunk. Closing her eyes, the panicked pounding of her heart began to slow, to a slow and steady thrum as she nestled deeper into Lilith's arms. Comforted, Rebekah's eyes closed and the exhaustion overcame her as she relaxed against Lilith, slipping into sleep.

***

Tightening her arms, Lilith stared down in challenge at the wolf circling the base of the tree. It gazed up at her, eyes dark despite the morning light. With a last look at the women in the tree, it moved off, disappearing back into the forest in search of its young. Resting her head against Rebekah's, she kept her eye on the forest floor and let the blonde woman sleep.

"Rebekah," she whispered, voice cracking with unshed tears. "I can't bear the thought of losing you."

***

Later in the morning, the women descended from their perch. Holding Rebekah's hand tightly, Lilith led her back towards her home, pointing out the landmarks that would keep her on the right trail. They spent the rest of the day by the waterfall, as Lilith continued to explain the world outside the walled Garden to a curious Rebekah.

"But why would you leave in the first place? Everything you could want is there, the animals are gentle, there are no storms, and food and comfort are all around you."

"How can you appreciate when things are good, when you've accomplished something? The uncertainty and the danger is what makes you feel alive, gives you the feeling of accomplishment," Lilith countered. "When you take a chance you may be surprised at what happens."

"I don't understand."

"You have to taste life and all it has to offer, sometimes it can be bitter, and sometimes it can be very sweet," Lilith held out a peach to her, smiling at the serious look on Rebekah's face. "You don't know until you take that first bite."

Taking the proffered fruit, Rebekah took a bite, a burst of sweetness washing over her as the juices escaped and ran down her chin. With an embarrassed laugh, she raised her hand to wipe them away, but Lilith's fingers were already there, catching the rivulets. Slowly running the tip of her finger along the sticky trail, Lilith's dark eyes were riveted to Rebekah's mouth.

Rebekah's breath caught as Lilith's tongue snaked out to taste the liquid gathered on the finger, lips surrounding it, sucking it into her mouth. Entranced, Rebekah froze under Lilith's heated gaze, shuddering at the touch of those lips trailing along her sticky skin. Her hot tongue traced along Rebekah's lips, gathering the droplets of juice still clinging to them. Reaching down, Lilith grasped the peach from Rebekah's slack hand and brought it back up, squeezing the fruit, mashing its flesh to allow a fresh flood of nectar to splash against Rebekah's mouth and chin.

Rebekah's gasp of surprise was met with Lilith's mouth descending on hers, tasting, savouring, devouring. Falling back from delicious assault, Rebekah lay on the soft grass, lost in the sensations of Lilith's probing mouth and tongue. With a groan, Rebekah responded, pressing against the other woman, her own mouth seeking to share the sweet juices. Dizzying waves crashed against her senses as Lilith pressed against her, lips and tongue caressing and battling against her own.

A cry tore from Rebekah's lips as Lilith pulled away. Eyes blazing, Lilith stared, her gaze raking along Rebekah's naked form. Lilith grasped another fruit and squeezed it between her two hands, the sticky juices bursting from between her fingers, raining down on Rebekah's breasts and stomach. As Lilith ran the crushed fruit along Rebekah's soft flesh, the fresh nectar created a sticky sheen against her sun-kissed skin. Throwing the fruit to the side, Lilith's hands fell back to the glistening flesh, smearing the pulpy mess across Rebekah's breasts. The juices were cool against her, but under Lilith's massaging hands, they heated quickly.

"The first taste was sweet, but I think the second will be even more so," Lilith's words barely registered in Rebekah's mind as the sensation of fingers caressing and pulling at her tender flesh threatened to drown her.

A ragged groan escaped her lips as Lilith's mouth enveloped her breast, sucking and nibbling at the flesh. Tongue swirling and tasting, she feasted on Rebekah's sensitized flesh. Muscles clenching, Rebekah arched against Lilith's probing mouth, hand fisting into dark hair in reaction to a tongue tripping across her aching nipple, collecting the sweet juices that permeated her skin. A familiar tension coiled within her, building higher and higher, beyond what she had felt the day before. Beneath Lilith's questing mouth, Rebekah bucked wildly, desperate for release as the dark haired woman continued to tease and taste.

"Lilith," she gasped. "I want ... more ... uhhh."

"This isn't about want, Rebekah," Lilith hissed, raising her head from the hot and sticky flesh, her eyes flashing in defiance. "This is about need." Her head descended, lips capturing Rebekah's nipple, teeth rasping against the hardened tip.

"Want is desire," she continued as her fingers replaced her teeth, nails tracing along the side of her breast, circling the areola and pinching the swollen nipple.

"Need is survival." Lilith's tongue swept between nectar-covered breasts, tasting the pulp that rested there. Rising on one arm, she reached for another fruit. Crushing it between her strong fingers, the juices trailed between Rebekah's breasts, down her curved stomach and dripped above the juncture of her thighs, coating the soft golden hair that covered her labia. Tightening her grip on the peach, more nectar escaped, soaking Rebekah's mound, slipping between her engorged lips and mingling with her own juices, causing her hips to jog at the sudden shock of the cool sticky liquid cascading against her. "Can you survive without this? I can't."

Lilith's head descended again, tasting Rebekah's sodden flesh, the unrelenting touch of her lips and tongue sending a wave of pleasure rippling through every fibre of Rebekah's being. Lilith continued her feast; face glistening with the juice as she slowly laved and worshipped every inch of sweetened skin. Lips trailing across heated flesh, Lilith groaned, "You are what I need."

Beneath the continued assault, Rebekah writhed against the snaking tongue and glancing lips. The feel of teeth raking against her flesh sent shockwaves through her core. Her mind was undone and she was unable to do more than gasp and moan in reaction to Lilith's ministrations. As Lilith's hot mouth continued across her stomach, she grasped at Lilith's shoulders, fingers scraping against the white flesh, leaving red scratches in their wake.

"So tell me, Rebekah," her heated breath against Rebekah's mons, warming the juices that glistened there. "Do you need this or is it just desire?"

"Oh, Lilith, yes," she cried out, eyes locking with the dark and penetrating gaze. "I need you."

Lilith's mouth crushed against Rebekah's mound, drinking the juices along her labia. Pushing between swollen lips, Lilith's tongue swept in and captured sweeter nectar. Fingers and tongue continued their exploration, every touch sending a shudder through Rebekah. Tracing the length of her, Lilith's fingers found the source of Rebekah's own juices and teased shudders from Rebekah as she slipped the tip of her fingers along the entrance. She pushed a finger into Rebekah and groaned when she felt muscles clench tight, refusing to release the gentle intruder. Rebekah gasped as Lilith joined a second finger to the first and began a slow and steady rhythm in and out of the slick channel.

Rebekah's back arched as overwhelming sensations coursed through her body while Lilith's mouth and fingers continued their explorations. Every nerve in her body was on fire, burning with an incredible heat and her hands flailing wildly until they found Lilith's hair, her fingers fisting in the thick tresses when she felt Lilith's tongue circling her clitoris. In response, Lilith's tongue lashed against it, worrying the engorged flesh and Rebekah bucked wildly against her, thrusting herself against Lilith.

Rebekah tensed beneath the bombardment of Lilith's touch, her body moving of its own volition. Gasping as Lilith's fingers plunged deeper and harder and her tongue pummelled against the sensitive nub, every touch fanned the raging fire that swirled within Rebekah's core. The tension exploded, a liquid heat spilling throughout her body, blotting out all sights and sounds, consuming her in a white-hot ball of flame until there was no more. With a last gasp, her body fell limp across the grass, barely registering Lilith sliding up beside her.

Feeling Lilith's gaze on her, Rebekah turned her head and opened her eyes. Lilith stared down at her, a worried frown on her face. Reaching up, Rebekah's fingers traced the furrow between Lilith's brows, gliding down cheekbones and coming to rest on sticky lips. A slow smile crossed Rebekah's face, and Lilith's face lightened in relief, her head dipping down to kiss the exhausted woman. Pulling her down, Rebekah nestled against her, head resting on her breast. The two women napped beneath the clear blue sky, wrapped in each other's arms.

***

Stretching languorously, Rebekah opened her eyes and blinked in the late afternoon sun. Her cheek was warm against Lilith's breast. She listened to the thrum of the other woman's heart and stretched, revelling in the feel of their limbs intertwined and the connection of flesh against flesh. The lengthening shadows across the clearing came into focus and she sat upright, disentangling herself from Lilith's embrace.

Rebekah stepped into the shallow water, moving towards the small waterfall. Standing beneath its spray, she ran her hands along her sticky flesh, washing away the remnants of the peaches' juices. As she ran her hands over her tender breasts and skin, memories of Lilith's mouth and fingers flooded her mind. Opening her eyes beneath the spray, she looked across at the shore where Lilith stood watching her.

When she neared, Rebekah felt a fresh wave of desire rise within her. Her eyes caressed Lilith's breasts and stomach and she wondered how it would feel to have that smooth skin beneath her fingers. Emerging from the shallow water, she stepped into Lilith's welcoming embrace, thrilling at the feel of her lover's heated skin against her own damp flesh. She stepped back reluctantly and her face filled with regret.

"It's late, I have to get back before dark or Adam will worry."

Lilith's eyes flashed in anger.

"Back?" Her voice dripped with venom.

"I can't just not go back. I need to talk to him- he deserves that much."

"Deserves? What does anyone deserve in the Garden? You said that a person's heart's desire is in that Garden, Rebekah -- is he your heart's desire, then?"

"Lilith, no..."

"It was 'Lilith, yes' a short time ago -- but I suppose it was 'Adam, yes' this morning," she snapped, eyes swirling in rage as she towered over Rebekah.

"You've had your fun on this side of the wall, now you can go back and be safe and sound," Her voice was laced with bitterness. "Don't return, Rebekah -- I won't be used. Stay with Adam, I'm sure he's gotten more enjoyment out of you than I ever would."

Hot tears of anger and betrayal welled in Rebekah's eyes. Without another word, she turned and walked away. Entering the woods, she made her way back to the wall, never looking back and never letting the tears escape until she collapsed at the foot of the tree -safe and sound in the Garden, feeling lost and alone.

***

When Rebekah emerged from the trees, Adam was sitting stiffly beside the pond. He had been staring at the line of trees, and he watched her cross the clearing. Her mind raced with thoughts of Lilith and their last words and she barely noticed his presence as she passed where he sat in tense stillness.

"Where were you?" His accusatory tone stung.

Spinning to face him, she glared into his stony face.

"Since when do you care?"

"You went to the wall, didn't you? I told you not to, but you went back." He sprung to his feet and advanced on her, his solemn face splitting into rage. "You went to her."

Rebekah stood her ground as he approached, fixing her fists against her hips as her own anger rose. "Who, Adam? We're the only ones here in the Garden."

"You know who I mean."

"You mean Lilith?"

He reeled back at the sound of that name, his face awash with hurt, anger and fear.

"How many more secrets are you keeping from me?" she sneered.

Rebekah turned and stalked away from Adam. Jumbled thoughts and feelings swirled furiously as she stormed towards the edge of the clearing, images and the ugly words of both Adam and Lilith flooding her mind. A hand landed heavily on her shoulder, fingers digging into her soft flesh, pulling her around and pushing her off balance. Stumbling in confusion, her back hit the trunk of a tree, Adam's hand pushing her roughly against the bark. His face, contorted with fury, loomed above her. Rebekah's own angry thoughts fled as she shrunk beneath his dark scowl.

"Adam, please." She reached her hands to his wrist, gripping his arm and trying to push him away. His grip tightened and he raised his other hand to clasp her jaw in his fist, holding her head still as he brought his face closer to her, his breath hot against her cheeks.

"Why?" The word gritted out between clenched teeth. He pressed the length of his body against her, pinning her to the tree. "Why did you go to the tree?"

Trapped, panic began to bubble deep within her. Her heart pounded in her chest as she gasped for breath. The bark bit into her back while his fingers dug deeper into her flesh.

"Why would you want to leave the Garden?"

Her eyes snapped at his words and a fresh wave of anger flooded her.

"There's more than the Garden, Adam. There's a whole world out there that you have no idea about."

"That's what she said -- what other lies has she told you? What has she done to twist you away from me?"

"This isn't about you, Adam. This is about me. I don't want to stay here."

"You want to be with her -- what does she give you that I can't? What's out there that you can't get here?"

"Why don't you go over the wall and see for yourself?"

"I forbid you to go back there ... to see her again."

"Forbid? Who do you think you are to tell me what I can and can't do?"

"You will do as I say, Rebekah," he howled with rage. He released her jaw and pulled back his arm, his hand closing in a fist.

"Is this how you want to keep me here? By fear?"

He froze above her, the rage dropping away, replaced by shock and horror as he looked down at her in confusion. His hand loosened from her shoulder and he stepped away from her.

"Rebekah .... I'm ..." he started. The words tumbled in the back of his throat, but he was unable to release them. He brought his hands up to his face, staring at the clenched fist and moving his eyes to meet Rebekah's stunned gaze. "I'm sorry."

She moved away from the tree, careful not to brush against him.

"Go away, Adam," her voice rough with fear and anger. "Just go away."

She returned to the pond, refusing to turn and look towards him. She listened to the sound of him leaving the clearing, entering the woods and crushing leaves and branches beneath his feet. The sounds faded until all that she could hear was the soft lapping of the water against the shore. Curled into herself, she clutched her knees tight to her chest and rocked against the soft grass. Slowly, as the fear and anger began to loosen their grasp on her heart, she began to tremble, hot tears streaming down her face and she dissolved into sobs.

***

The sun was high by the time Rebekah opened her eyes. Fruits, nuts and fish spread out before her on wide fronds that lay on the grass. Beyond them, Adam sat quietly, watching her wake from a distance.

"I thought you might be hungry," he began. "I remembered that you liked the fish I had caught the last time, so I went back to that stream to get you some more."

Pursing her lips, she regarded him carefully and sat up. She reached for an apple and motioned towards him.

"There's more than enough for both of us."

With a flash of relief crossing his face, Adam stood and made his way to join Rebekah by the pond. They ate in an uncomfortable silence, stealing glances at each other as they made their way through the small feast.

"About last night," Adam mumbled as he twisted a long blade of grass in his fingers. "I'm sorry."

"I know, Adam, but it doesn't change things. What happened last night would just happen again and again. We don't belong together, I don't belong here."

"You belong to me," he argued.

"And that's the problem," she sighed. "I'm not one of the things you have available to you in the Garden."

"That's not what I meant," he stammered.

"You treat me like a pastime -- something to occupy you between fishing and sleeping."

Adam's shoulders tensed at her accusation. Lifting his eyes to meet hers, they shone with unshed tears. Rebekah's resolve faltered when she saw the pain beneath them.

"You can't order me around and you can't take me for granted -- there has to be more. I'm not happy -- I should be, but I'm not."

"What can I do to make you happy?"

"When I'm here, I feel hollow -- something is missing. Outside, beyond the wall, with her -- I feel complete. She needs me as much as I need her. I don't think that you need me, Adam."

"Do you love her?" He asked the question quietly, the words barely escaping his lips.

"Yes. Yes I do. When I'm with her, all the questions and doubts that I can't put into words are answered - she completes me and I complete her."

"I thought you were supposed to complete me."

"Adam," her voice tinged with sadness, "Do you love me?"

Adam's head hung down at her question. "I could."

She rested her head on his shoulder and they sat beside the pond in silence while the birds sang in the trees. They sat for a time, each lost in their own thoughts.

"I don't want to be alone."

"We both already are, Adam."

"I know, but I don't like it."

"There is someone for you. There has to be. It's just not me."

"When are you leaving?"

"I should go now; the sun is starting to set."

Adam sighed heavily and reached towards the fronds beside him, picking up the last of the fish and fruit and wrapping them in the leaves. Pressing it into her hands, he kissed her cheek softly. "She liked that fish as well. It was probably the only thing she liked here."

"I do love you, Adam," she hugged him close. "But not in the way that you need."

Standing up, she clutched the package to her chest and looked down at him. He waved her towards the trees and turned back to face the pond. She crossed the clearing as the sun began to make its descent, her steps heavy with uncertainty about the choice she was making.

"I'll miss you," the soft-spoken words floated on the gentle breeze.

"I'll miss you, too."

Pausing at the edge of the trees, Rebekah looked back to see Adam hunched beside the pond, throwing stones into the clear water, staring at their waves left in their wake. She slipped into the woods and began to make her way back to the tree.

***

Thunder boomed through the valley, reverberating through the cave as Lilith tossed restlessly by her fire. The storm had broken just as evening was falling - a torrential downpour accompanied by the furious display as lightning and thunder crashed through the valley. The heavens had opened and all their fury and power were brought to play in the black night sky.

Clenching her eyes shut, Lilith burrowed deeper into the furs, but it wasn't the storm that kept sleep away. Images of Rebekah, the argument, the words, the tears, the sight of her walking back to the tree plagued her every waking moment. Her anger had quickly cooled, only to be replaced by a desperate loneliness and regret. She hadn't given Rebekah a choice, forcing her back to the Garden. She had no more tears; her sobs had gone unnoticed and unanswered in her solitary cave. All that remained was the unbearable ache of loss.

A scrabbling sound broke through her melancholy. Pushing her coverings back, she sat up, peering towards the entrance of the cave. Lilith's breath caught as dim firelight illuminated the wet and bedraggled figure of Rebekah stumbling towards her. Casting the furs aside, Lilith rushed to the shivering woman, throwing her arms around her with a strangled sob. Rebekah was soaked and chilled and the shock of it pressed against her own warm skin made her gasp. Rebekah trembled in the embrace, arms circling her, pulling her closer, desperate for contact.

"Lilith ...." she whispered, her voice hoarse and cracked.

"Shh, no words, not now," Lilith murmured as she moved Rebekah closer to the fire. Pushing her to the bedding, Lilith continued to murmur softly, hands running along Rebekah's cold skin. She pulled the furs over them and drew Rebekah closer, hands rubbing warmth into the shivering woman, crooning wordlessly.

***

Pressed against Lilith's warm body beneath the cocoon of furs, Rebekah's chilled skin began to warm. Slowly, the heat began to spread across her body, chasing the memories of the slashing cold rains that beat against her as she made her way to the cave. Nestled against warm flesh, feeling hands running along her back, a different warmth began to curl within the pit of her belly. Her own hands began rubbing against Lilith's flesh, tracing the curves and angles of the other woman, exploring the smooth white skin hidden beneath the mounds of furs.

Rebekah's face lifted from where it lay tucked against Lilith's neck and she found herself gazing into the other woman's curious eyes. Swirling in their dark depths, Rebekah recognized the desire, the uncertainty and hopeful anticipation. She raised her hand to touch Lilith's face, drawing her into a tentative kiss. The soft touch of Lilith's lips against hers caused a flutter in her chest. Capturing Lilith's lower lip between her own, she traced it with her tongue gently, sucking at it as Lilith gasped. Brazenly, her tongue breached the Lilith's mouth, searching and finding its mate.

Deepening the kiss, Rebekah pressed against Lilith, forcing her to her back. She shifted until the other woman lay beneath her, vulnerable to her every whim. The warmth that had started to curl in her was now a blazing inferno and desire drove Rebekah to sit up, breaking the kiss. She stared at Lilith's exposed skin, the flickering light from the fire casting a golden red glow on it, the play of shadows and light fascinating her. Lilith remained still beneath Rebekah, waiting breathlessly for her next move.

Tentatively, her hands moved down Lilith's shoulders, taking in their breadth and lingering on the taut muscles that tensed beneath her fingers. Her head descended, mouth pressing along Lilith's neck, lips and tongue tasting the salty skin. Turning her head, Rebekah watched in wonder as her hand traced its way from Lilith's shoulder towards her breast. Beneath her questing hand, the heart quickened. Slipping her fingers along the silken flesh, she reached Lilith's small breast, her hand easily cupping it. Massaging and kneading the mound, she thrilled at Lilith's sudden intake of breath. When her thumb flicked against the hard nipple, Lilith arched her back with an answering groan.

Rebekah laughed in delight as she pushed herself back upright. Straddled across Lilith's hips she smiled and allowed her hands to explore the expanse of flesh before her. Lilith writhed under her hands, every flick and pinch answered with a guttural moan. The jerking of Lilith's hips beneath her own sent shocks of pleasure through her and she ground down in response, eliciting a soft cry from Lilith. Wetness from her own arousal spread across Lilith's belly and mound.

Her head descended to replace her fingers with her lips, relishing the feast before her. Tongue swirling, she sucked a swollen nipple between her lips. Rasping her teeth against the bud, she swept her tongue along the tip, nipping again as Lilith's hands fisted within her hair, pushing her harder against the breast. She continued to worship the breasts before her as her hands began to caress Lilith's belly and sides. Slipping her own hips down to settle on Lilith's thighs, she moved her hands towards the juncture of the darker woman's thighs, fingers sliding along the wet trail left from her own arousal. She pressed her hand against Lilith's mons, the other woman's juices soaking against her palm as her fingers rested against the lips. Lilith gasped at the gentle pressure, pushing her hips up against Rebekah's hand, forcing a finger to slip inside the cleft.

Drawing her fingers away, Rebekah raised her hand to her face, revelling in the scent of the other woman's arousal. Raw desire blazing in her eyes, she captured Lilith's gaze as she slipped the fingers in her mouth, savouring the juices which coated them. Lilith's eyes widened while Rebekah licked every drop of the glistening liquid from her fingers.

"Sweeter than the ripest peach," she grinned.

"Rebekah," Lilith pleaded, "I can't wait."

The words sent a thrill through Rebekah and raw desire blazed in her eyes as her head dipped down. Fingers parting the engorged lips, Rebekah's lips dipped down to taste Lilith's arousal. Her tongue swept along the labia, searching for more of the sweet juices.

The sound of Lilith's cry reverberated through the darkened cave when Rebekah's tongue brushed against her clitoris. In response, Rebekah sucked the nub in and attacked the swollen flesh with abandon. With every flick, Lilith's fingers clenched Rebekah's blonde head closer, her hips bucking against Rebekah's mouth. Continuing the assault using lips and tongue, Rebekah's fingers sought Lilith's entrance, the tips entering her channel. Lilith stiffened beneath Rebekah's mouth and fingers, her body trembled with waves of pleasure. Gasping for breath, Lilith's hands clutched at Rebekah's shoulders, pulling her away from the sensitive flesh.

With a smile, Rebekah raised her head and began to slide along Lilith's damp skin, delighting in the feel of flesh rubbing against flesh as she went. Propped on her hands, she hovered over Lilith, her mound pressed tight against the other woman's labia. With a smile, she wiggled her hips, forcing her thighs between Lilith's legs so that she could rest comfortably. Dipping her head, she ran her tongue along Lilith's breast, circling the swollen nipple. In response, Lilith's hips jerked and the sudden motion bumped against Rebekah's mound, setting off an unexpected jolt of pleasure. Shifting her own hips, she slipped against Lilith, the friction sending a delightful ripple shuddering through her body. Lilith's soft groan as their flesh met encouraged Rebekah to continue.

"I will make you mine," she teased, her hips jogging against Lilith's.

"I already am," Lilith groaned in response, her eyes closing in submission.

Leaning on her hands, Rebekah began to rock against Lilith's supine body. The friction of their initial motion fading as the moisture from both mixed, creating a slickness that allowed Rebekah to glide against the other woman. Lilith's hands clutched at Rebekah's hips, guiding her, forcing their tender flesh closer, tighter, lips against lips. Gazing deep into Lilith's eyes, Rebekah maintained her slow rhythm, head descending to catch a taste of flesh or to capture the dark haired woman's mouth in a tender kiss as the pressure continued to build within her. Beneath her, Lilith pushed up into Rebekah, locking her legs around the smaller woman, desperate to keep the intimate connection between their heated flesh.

Their gasps and cries filled the dark cave, their bodies undulating in the flickering firelight, writhing shadows cast against the walls. Their slow and unrelenting pace had given way to a wilder thrusting and grinding as instinctive need overcame them, building into an overpowering surge.

"Lilith, I can't hold on any longer," Rebekah gasped against the Lilith's neck.

"Rebekah, now," Lilith cried. "Come with me."

Her body convulsed beneath Rebekah's, legs tightening and fingers scratching. Above her, Rebekah's hips continued to jerk against her, the continuing rhythm setting off wave after wave of aftershocks.

Rebekah's body trembled and shuddered as her own release exploded while Lilith screamed out beneath her. Collapsing against Lilith, Rebekah pressed against her, nipples quivering against her soft breasts. Slowly the tremors subsided and Lilith's arms encircled her while she rested her head between Lilith's breasts, kissing the warm flesh. Their ragged breathing slowed as they lay on top of the furs, limbs entwined.

"Will you stay with me?" Lilith's question came softly in the darkness.

"You are what I need, Lilith," she murmured against Lilith's silken skin. "This is where I belong."

***

The woman stood beneath the spreading boughs of the apple tree, her eyes following the edge of the trunk where it burst from the wall.

"Are you going to stand there staring all day, or are you coming up?" an amused voice floated down, followed by a light laugh.

Intrigued, she stepped closer to the trunk, craning her neck to peer up into the dense foliage. A face peeked out from the leaves, blue eyes sparking and a wide smile on her face.

"Come up, we've been waiting for you," she entreated, holding out her hand to the woman on the ground.

***

Giggling, the three women reclined on the boughs of the apple tree.

"... and then his foot slipped and we both ended up in the mud," Eve gasped, wiping tears from her eyes. Lilith and Rebekah doubled over with laughter as the other woman regaled them with stories of her first few days in the Garden.

"Sounds like he hasn't changed much," Lilith snorted.

"Sounds like the two of you are having fun." Rebekah shot Lilith a sharp glance.

"Oh yes," Eve sighed. "He's so sweet. I can't imagine what it would be like without him."

"It's really not that hard," Lilith teased while Rebekah let out an exasperated sigh. "But if you can't imagine what it would be like without him, what are you doing here -- without him?"

"He told me about both of you," she explained. "I wanted to see the wall and the tree so he told me where I could find it."

"He told you about us?" Lilith's voice was incredulous. "And how to find the tree?"

"Sounds like he has changed," Rebekah muttered with a level glance at Lilith.

"Of course he did, he's promised that he won't keep anything from me. He told me that neither of you were happy here, that this wasn't what you needed. It hurt him when you left, but I think he understood - eventually."

"And are you?" Lilith asked. "Are you happy?"

Eve paused for a moment, considering her answer while she watched the two women in lean in to hear her.

"Yes." Her answer was simple but firm. Rebekah grinned at the response while Lilith's eyes rolled.

"I'm happy with Adam here in the Garden. I'd be happy with Adam on the other side of the wall if it came to that. When we are together, I feel complete and I know that he does as well. It's like we are part of each other, two halves of a whole. Does that make sense?"

"Of course it does," Rebekah grabbed Eve's hand and leaned in to kiss her cheek. "I'm glad that you and Adam found each other."

"If you change your mind, you know where to find us," Lilith grinned wickedly. Rebekah elbowed her side while Eve laughed in delight.

"Eve! Eve, where are you?" A distant voice startled the women as it wafted towards the tree.

A soft smile crossed Eve's face as she looked out towards the grove. The three women watched Adam break from the trees, stopping to stare at the spreading apple tree, a worried frown crossing his face.

"We'll always be here, if you need us," Rebekah whispered in Eve's ear as she embraced the brown haired woman. Moving higher in the tree, she motioned Lilith to join her.

"As long as you're happy with him," Lilith conceded.

"I am," Eve promised, hugging her quickly. Lilith stared into her deep brown eyes for a moment longer and grinned back.

"No accounting for taste," she laughed and moved to join Rebekah in the upper reaches of the tree. Lilith took Rebekah's hand in hers as they listened to the exchange.

"Eve, I was looking for you. I thought you'd like to explore the Garden with me," Adam's voice hitched as his eyes searched the boughs with some alarm.

Hopping down from the lower branches, Eve ran to him, throwing her arms around his neck and kissing him soundly. Adam's frown transformed into a surprised smile as her body pressed close to his, a perfect fit.

"I found you an apple in that old tree," she smiled and tucked her body close to his, looping her arm around his waist while holding up a red fruit for his inspection. Bemused, he hugged his wife. Together they moved away from the wall, back into the Garden.

Above them, grey clouds began to form, swirling and blackening in the late afternoon sky - a storm was gathering.

~ End ~

Author's Note:

Folktales tell of Adam having a first wife, Lilith, who was created at the same time as him from dust and who stormed out of the Garden because she refused to lie beneath him. More obscure folktales tell of a second wife, the "first Eve", who was created from Adam, but, because he saw her being created, he couldn't get over his discomfort and she disappeared from the Garden, never to be heard from again. The third time appeared to be the charm with Eve being created while he slept.