Standard Disclaimer: The characters of Xena and Gabrielle do not belong to me. They are the products of the imagination of Robert Tapert and the folks at Renaissance Pictures/MCA. I’ve just borrowed them for this story. The other characters herein are mine and mine alone.

Violence Disclaimer: None, nadda, zip, unless of course you count the wicked, broom wielding housekeeper.

Sex/language Disclaimer: This story revolves around two women who are very much in love and have been for a very long time. Their relationship is intimate and sexual in nature. Loosely translated: they do the ‘wild thang’ every now and again, and sometimes they cut loose with some not so ladylike language. So be warned. Anyone, who is not at least 21 years of age, please don’t read my stories. People, who are homophobic, likewise shouldn’t read my stories. If you live in a state or province where these sorts of stories are illegal, don’t read the following. And for heaven sake, don’t read this at work. Your employer may actually expect you to work during the day and not read FanFic.

Hurt/Angst: Not in this one. That comes later.

For those of you who thought I had given up, and would never complete this series, I’m back. Thank you for your patience. I’ve had some real life things to take care of and they're working out just the way I hoped. I’m going through some major life changes, no not change of life, but I’m making a major move and beginning a new job in another state. I have someone new in my life, and she has made me very, very happy. I thank God for my lady everyday. She’s my rock, my support, and my love. Anyway, this is the final installment of the ‘Lost and Found Series’, so enjoy. My addy is the same, fantasysrealm@home.com or fans91@hotmail.com. This will probably be the last installment for about a month or so because I’m moving in a week. So please bear with me.

She’s Not A Little Girl Any more

By

Fantasy

January 12, 2001

Chapter 1: Reflection

I sat there for the longest time watching the waves lap softly against the shore. Nip and Tuck were lying on either side of me, wrapping me in a canine cocoon. I thought about many things, but mostly my life and how the strange twists and turns had brought me to this place and time. I was a successful, well-known trauma surgeon, who had everything money could buy. I was a respected member of the community, with many friends. My wife was gorgeous, my daughter beautiful. I even had a wonderful, loving relationship with my in-laws. Yes, at fifty years old, I was healthy, wealthy, and even, some would say, wise. I could want for absolutely nothing. I had overcome a miserable, abusive childhood to forge a successful, happy life, while my old man was sure I’d fail. Yet, it was he who died in prison…where he belonged don’t forget. I wish I could.

I had been sitting here on the beach, in my favorite place, for some time, watching the California sun dip below the horizon. The colors of pink, red, and gold blended together to form an artist’s palette of delight. A slight movement, to my left, caught my eye and I turned to see a remarkably, extraordinarily ravishing creature. My angel was walking toward me, barefoot, clad in denim jeans and a white hooded sweatshirt. The slight breeze blew raven tresses back and away from a strikingly exquisite tanned face. Blue eyes sparkled in the dusky light. The light from the setting sun surrounded my angel with an ethereal glow. She truly looked like an angel, sent by God, to brighten my world. I couldn’t, nor did I want to take my eyes from the vision that was my Rebecca. As she neared, I felt more than heard her voice caress my ears.

"Hey baby, are you okay? You’ve been sitting here for an awfully long time. I was beginning to worry." I took my angel’s hand in mine and pulled her down. She sat behind me; I leaned my head on her chest, and rested my hands on her thighs.

"I’m fine darling. I was just waiting for you," I replied. "I knew sooner or later you would come looking for me. I wanted to enjoy the sunset with you, but frankly I was just too lazy to get up and go find you. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be so selfish." Becca wrapped her arms tightly around me and buried her face in my hair. I felt her lips kissing the top of my head, her fingers interlaced with mine.

"You don’t have to be sorry, I’m glad you waited for me. I love sitting here by the sea with you. It’s how I’ve always wanted to spend our golden years," Becca whispered. Golden years! Jeeze, what a thought. We’re not anywhere near that old are we?

"Honey, are you all right? I wouldn’t exactly say we are entering our golden years. I think we have another twenty years before we come to that! Let’s not rush things. I have a lot of things I want to do, and I’m certainly not ready for old age just yet." My tone indicated I was almost offended at the term my angel and used and the implications the words bore.

"Sweetheart, you’re over reacting. I certainly didn’t mean to imply we were ready for the rocking chair. I just meant I was looking forward to a time, many years from now, when life would slow down and we would be alone together to enjoy a quiet time together. I could paint, you could write…"

"Whoa, slow down there," I interrupted. "I haven’t written anything in years. I’m not sure I even have the ability to write anymore."

"Oh pullleeeaaassseee!" My wife cried. "There is no doubt in my mind that you were and still are a wonderful writer. You have such a colorful way of weaving a story. The stories you told Syd when she was a little girl are remarkable. I think you should write children’s stories. Write about your Native American culture. You’d be so good at that." She’s right smartass; you never should have stopped writing. If your old man hadn’t… Don’t even go there. That’s water long gone under the bridge. Umph, think so huh? Bet Becca doesn’t think so. Just butt out!

"I don’t know babe. Do you really think so?" I asked. I never have had the confidence in myself my angel has in me.

"Of course I do my love. You can do anything you set your mind to do; you just need to trust in your abilities. I do. You’re my hero you know," my baby purred in my ear.

"I love you my heart," I murmured.

"And I love you my soul," Becca breathed.

Warm lips descended on the pulse point in my neck and nibbled and sucked gently. I bent my head to the right to give my angel better access and just melted into the warmth of my lover’s ministrations. I turned in the circle of my wife’s arms and captured soft, wet lips with my own. The kiss was long and languorous. It wasn’t about lust or need, but about belonging and connecting. This was love, pure and simple. We broke the kiss for the sake of breath.

"Have I told you how much I love and need you my darling?" I asked.

"Yes," my world breathed, "but you can tell me that anytime, and keep telling me for as long as we live. I love and need you too, so very much." Again, our lips met and mouths opened, tongues explored and tasted. "Mmmm, I love the way you kiss me Stace. You’re always so passionate, and at the same time soft, sweet, and gentle. Like a fine wine, you get better with age."

"Humph another crack about my age," I groused. "Are you trying to tell me I’m getting old?"

"Not at all," my angel countered, "why are you suddenly so sensitive about your age? I’m the same age as you and you don’t see me concerned do you?" C’mon get real.

"Becca there is a big difference between you and me. Look at you. You’re drop dead gorgeous and you still don’t look a day over 35. I, on the other hand, am beginning to look like a road map. You know, lines and wrinkles." A gentle hand caressed the side of my face and stroked my curly hair.

"My love, you are the most beautiful, the most desirable woman I have ever met. I thought so thirty-five years ago, and I still think so. You will always be the only woman I ever want to spend my life with, to make love to, to grow old together with. You are my heart and soul, now and forever. Now tell me what brought all this self-reflection about anyway?" my wife asked.

"Oh I don’t know. I guess a lot of things. But mostly it’s Syd. She’s growing up, baby. She’s grown into a beautiful young woman, and it seemed like only yesterday that I was holding her in my arms while she took her bottle. Now she’s dating. God, I feel so old sometimes." And suddenly, I did feel old, past my prime. The little aches and pains were starting to take hold and it took longer for me to shake them off in the morning.

Oh knock it off! You’re just feeling sorry for yourself. God fifty isn’t old; it’s just middle age. Hell you could live for another thirty years or more. You’ve got more going for you than most teenagers. Get up off your butt and do something about the aches and pains. You’re a doctor for God sakes; act like one.

Oh God, the thought of getting older means I’ll have to put up with your incessant yammering in my ear, right?

That’s right, so if you want me to shut up, do something about your condition. Have a night out on the town. Take Becca out to dinner and dancing.

I don’t dance.

Tough, try something different!

You think I can’t?

No, I don’t. So put your money where your mouth is. Prove me wrong.

Pfffff, that won’t be hard!

"Ya know Becca, you’re right. We’re not old, and it’s time we proved it, if to no one else, at least to ourselves. Let’s get our glad rags on and go out to dinner. Hell, we may as well go dancing too. Let’s go to Bernie’s and have steak and lobster. Then we’ll go to ‘Hannibal's’ and dance until dawn. What’d ya say?" My angel looked at me like I’d lost my mind.

"Who are you and what have you done with my wife? Dancing? Stacey are you serious? You want to go dancing? Honey, as much as I love the idea, you don’t dance. Are you sure?"

"Damn straight I’m sure. And besides, it’s not that I don’t know how to dance, I just don’t. But I think its high time I did. Hell, we may even run into Syd and the kids. Bet we could show them a thing or two. So, we goin’ or what?" My heart jumped to her feet and pulled me up with her in one motion. She spun around in circles holding me to her. All the while, she was laughing and kissing my face and neck. "I’ll take that as a yes?"

"Absolutely my soul, absolutely. I love you my darling."

"I love you too my heart. Shall we go?"

"Yes, love."

Chapter 2: The Date

It wasn’t long before Becca and I were ready and driving up the coast highway to ‘The Lobster Tail’, our favorite restaurant. The ride progressed in companionable silence, neither of us feeling the need to converse with the other. How many times had we made this drive up the coast? I’d lost count. Becca and I had come such a long, long way from out beginning back in Bannock. How different, and probably painful my life would have been if it weren’t for a dented motorcycle.

Well I’ve always said God looks after fools and children. And I needn’t ask what category you think I fall into do I? Nope, smartass, not unless you really want me to say. No that won’t be necessary, thank you. Don’t mention it. Fools and children, hmmph. Now, where was I? Oh yeah…

Fools and children. My angel says God does look after all the children in the world. She claims He made people like me to be there for all the lost and battered little bodies that need to be healed. Maybe so, I don’t know. He did put me in a position to take care of one in particular so long ago…Sydnee René. She made our family complete. She gave us something I never thought I’d ever have or want, a child. Now that child is growing up and getting ready to leave home in just a couple of years, or less. God help me what will I do then? I’ll miss her so. And now tonight she is beginning her journey to adulthood, passing a benchmark of adolescence. Her first real date. God, a date, boys, sex, oh hell. My angel says I’m overreacting. Maybe I am, but I can’t help but wonder what decisions she’ll make. We’ve tried to teach her all she’ll need to know, but will that enough? Did we give her the right values? Have we given her enough information to make intelligent choices? I wish I could be sure I’ve done the right things. Being a parent is so hard. Duh, no one said it would be easy, but you and Becca have done a good job, so stop worrying. Fortunately, for Syd she has Becca for an insurance policy. Your faith in me is truly awe-inspiring. Anytime, smartass, anytime.

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

"Hey c’mon Syd, Scott we don’t want to be late! If you two don’t quit lolly gagging, we’re gonna get lousy seats," Ange grumbled.

"Yeah bro," David added, "you too can ‘huggie bear-kissie face’ on your own time. Let’s go." Scott nearly choked, and Syd blushed to the roots of her hair.

"Knock it off David," Scott warned, "we are not kissing, we’re just talking. Besides, what’s it to ya if we were?"

"Hey, no skin off my nose. If you want to tangle with Dr. McGregor, you go ahead, but me…"

"David, Scott won’t have to worry about tangling with my mom. She happens to like Scott, both my mom’s do." Syd was adamant about defending us to her friends.

"Oh God, would the three of you knock it off or I’ll go to the movie by myself," Ange groused. "And David, you know Syd’s parents better than that. They’re cool." To add emphasis to her statement, Ange slapped David lightly up side the head.

"Okay, jeeze! Take it easy would ya? God I was just kidding around," David cried in his defense.

"Cool, look you guys. The line to the Cinema is pretty short." Syd stuck her tongue out at Ange. "I told you we had plenty of time."

"Umph, no thanks to you and Scott. What the heck were you guys doing at your place Syd. David and I thought you were never coming out?" Ange pressed for all the info she could get.

"Yeah bro, what were you and Syd doing anyway?" David asked.

"Well, if you must know little brother, I was playing Pinochle with Syd’s parents and grandparents while Syd was getting ready," Scott explained.

"Pinochle!!!" Ange and David exclaimed in unison. "You’re kidding, right." The two teenagers nearly doubled over in laughter at Scott’s admission.

"Yeah Pinochle. What’s the matter with that?" Scott [asked in self-defense.] said defiantly.

"That’s right Ange, you have a problem with that? You’ve played cards with my family lots of times before. Why is it so strange Scott should play with them too?" Syd was getting about half irritated at Ange and David’s attitude. Scott decided it was time for a little safety intervention.

"Hey girls," Scott said. "Why don’t you two go sit over there on that retaining wall while David and I go get the tickets?" Syd and Ange nodded while Scott and David and left them to go buy the movie tickets. Ange took the opportunity to talk to Syd in private.

"Hey Syd, what’s the matter? David and I didn’t mean anything by what we said. We were just giving you the business. You never used to be so sensitive, Syd. C’mon what gives?" Ange asked, actually concerned she had offended her best friends.

"Oh nothing I guess. It’s just Scott and I are just getting our relationship started and I’m a little touchy. I’m sorry I jumped down your throat," Syd replied.

"So is this serious between you two?" Ange inquired.

"Oh damn, I don’t know," Syd sighed. "This is just so new, and I’m not sure what I want. Scott’s a really great guy and we have lots of fun together. We have a lot in common, but I look at what my parents have and I just don’t know if Scott and I could have the same thing. I guess I’m a little scared, ya know?"

"I know what you mean. David wants to have a relationship too, but I’m not sure I’m ready for that either. But as far as what your folks have, Syd, no one else will ever have what your parents have. They are a one-of-a- kind couple. They are truly soulmates. I think it’s really cool and you are very lucky to have two neat parents like them." Ange dropped her head and became very quiet.

"Gosh Ange. You’ve never said anything like that to me before. Are you okay?" Syd asked, the concern in her voice was quite apparent.

"Oh yeah, I’m fine. I’m just…well…just a little jealous maybe. I mean my folks never show affection like your folks do. Don’t get me wrong, I know they love each other, but your folks are so cool about everything. I mean they take such pleasure in just being together. That’s pretty rare these days, I think." Ange was really outdoing herself in the philosophy department.

"Wow Ange, I’ve never known you to be so profound before. What’s gotten into you anyway?" Syd nudged her best friend with her hip.

"God I don’t know. Maybe I’m coming down with something. And if you tell anybody we talked like this, I’ll knock you on your butt!" Ange cautioned.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. You and what army?" Syd laughed. "Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone. Besides, no one would believe me anyway."

"You’re right there," Ange chuckled.

"Still, I know what you mean," Syd’s tone became suddenly very serious. "My folks are pretty special, and I thank God everyday they adopted me. Who knows what would have happened to me if they hadn’t."

"Syd, are you okay with that? Being adopted I mean. Does it bother you that you’re adopted?" In all the years they had been friends, Ange had never asked Syd how she felt about being adopted and she always wanted to know. "You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to. I’ll understand."

"No, that’s okay Ange," Syd replied. Being adopted doesn’t bother me at all. In fact, I think it’s kinda cool. I mean my parents wanted me badly enough to adopt me and take me into their home and give make me part of their family. My birth parents didn’t want that."

"What about Bill and Ida? Are you going to stay in contact with them?" Ange asked softly.

"I don’t know. They have never been a part of my life before, and Grams and Gramps have been the only grandparents I’ve known. They would never say anything, but I know it would hurt them if I wanted to see the Staffords. I would never do anything to hurt them. I think it would hurt Mom and Mother too. They’d never stand in my way, but I just couldn’t do it, ya know? It just wouldn’t feel right." Ange nodded in understanding.

"Yeah, it would just sound funny you calling someone besides Angie and Harley Grams and Gramps."

Scott and David returned with movie tickets in hand. The boys had perfect timing. They walked over to the girls just as their conversation was ending.

"Well did you two get the world’s problems solved? I looked over a couple of times while we were waiting on line, and you two looked to be deep in conversation. So was I right? Did you solve one world crisis after another?" Scott asked Syd quietly. Syd stood up, leaned her head on Scott’s broad, muscular shoulder.

"No Scott, not world crisis, just girl talk," Syd replied.

"Aaahhh, translated that means it’s none of my business." Scott smiled as he lifted Syd’s chin gently and gazed into deep, serious brown eyes. "Am I right?"

"No of course not, Scott. Ange and I were just talking about relationships. Yours and mine for one, hers and David’s for another, and my parents for a third. Our relationship is very much your business. I’m just not sure what that relationship is right now, are you?" Syd inquired.

The couple settled into their seats in the darkened theater. The movie, oddly enough, was What Women Want, staring Mel Gibson. They had stopped by the concession stand and purchased some Dr. Pepper and popcorn, with extra butter. The four friends had decided to see the movie first and eat dinner after and Scott was so sure Syd’s insatiable appetite would rare it’s ugly head without some snacks.

"To be honest Syd, I’m not sure either. I know I like being with you. We have lots of fun together. And I think y…yo…you are really beautiful." A blush covered Scott’s face at that admission and he was eternally grateful for the dark theater hid his embarrassment. Syd had never been called that before, and she was taken aback slightly.

"G’wan Scott, you’re not serious are you. I mean I’m not ugly, but beautiful? Let’s get real here." Syd tried to make light of the situation, but secretly, deep inside, she wanted to be beautiful to Scott.

"Syd, I am serious. I think you’re the most beautiful girl in the whole school. I feel really good when the guys see us together. It makes me proud to be seen with you cause you chose me, and not some other guy. I’d like to think we were…well you know…uh…" Syd tried to help Scott out.

"Scott it’s okay. Go ahead and ask me. What were you going to say?" Syd urged.

"Um well, would you go steady with me?" Scott asked in a rush and hurried on afraid Syd would say no. "I mean, no pressure or anything, but we could just kinda go out together. Hang out and do stuff. No…uh…I wouldn’t…well you know. Oh damn, I’m such a jerk. Oh, you know no sex or anything, maybe just a kiss every now and then. God I’m such a nerd. I probably just blew any chance I had of being with you now." Syd let out the breath she didn’t know she was holding.

"Scott, you’re not a nerd or a jerk. I think you’re really a great guy, and I’d love to go steady with you. And you’re right. We’re not ready for sex. I’d like to finish high school, go to college, and maybe even become a doctor like mom. What about you? What do you want to do?" Syd asked quietly.

"Um well, right now, I’d…well…I’d like one of those kisses. If…if that’s okay with you. Oh God, that was smooth, huh?" Scott was truly mortified. Here he was sitting in a dark movie theater with the girl of his dreams, and he was stumbling over his tongue. Syd was truly gracious and understanding.

"Yes Scott, that was smooth and I’d like to kiss you too," Syd said.

Slowly, tentatively two young people took the first step into a world filled with uncertainty. A world they had no clue about, but one they wanted to explore together. The kiss wasn’t passionate or lustful, but gentle and sweet, the way all first kisses were meant to be. Soft, warm lips touched and lingered for just a moment or two, then parted. Two sets of brown eyes peered cautiously at each other in the dim light of the theater. Syd was the first to speak.

"That was very nice Scott. I bet that with practice we could get really good at this. What do you think?"

"Oh yeah, I think that could be arranged." Scott breathed.

"Shall we try again, now?" Syd asked uncertainly.

"Seems like as good a time as any," Scott answered.

Again warm lips came together, but this time the kiss took on a greater urgency, and passion. Timidly, Scott’s tongue sneaked out to touch Syd’s lips, running over them, back and forth until Syd opened her mouth to invite him in. Their tongues touched briefly, tentatively before Scott exited Syd’s warm sweet mouth. Heavy breathing ensued, as the kiss was broken.

"Oh my, it didn’t take nearly as much practice to get good as I had thought it would." Syd whispered softly.

"You are really good at this Syd. I don’t suppose you…" Syd placed two fingers over Scott’s lips to silence any further speech.

"I think we’ve had about enough for the time being. We wouldn’t want to wear our lips out too soon now would we?" Syd laughed, and Scott agreed.

"You’re right Syd. But I just want you to know that our first kiss was really, really nice, and I’d like to do that again, but only when you’re ready, okay?"

"Any time Scott, but only with you, deal?" Syd smiled brightly and Scott ran his finger over her lips gently.

"Deal babe, I promise." Scott swore softly.

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

"Penny for your thoughts?" my world asked.

"Hmmm? Oh God, I’m sorry babe. I was just thinking about Syd and her date with Scott. I guess I’m a pretty boring traveling partner, huh?" I replied.

"Not at all sweetheart. I must admit though, I was getting a little worried there for a minute. You aren’t usually this quiet unless something is really bothering you. You don’t think Scott would do anything wrong do you?"

"Oh no, not at all. I was just thinking about how fast the time has gone by and how grown-up Syd is getting. We’ve come a long way together, you and I. I was just thinking how good our life has been overall." I don’t think I can take this much reflection all at once. You can always leave if you don’t like it. No, no, I think I’ll hang around awhile. This could get interesting. Oh great, this is just great!

"We have had a good life together haven’t we," my angel reflected, "I wouldn’t change a thing."

"Really, even the bad stuff? I…I mean the accident and all that. You wouldn’t change that either?" I was incredulous! Oooo, good word there smartass! Go away!

"No sweetheart, I wouldn’t change that either. Honey it made us stronger and more in love than ever. We’ve grown even closer because of the difficult times. They are a part of us too, and those times have made us able to withstand anything as long as we stay together. The accident proved that. It was the worst time of our lives, but in many ways, the best because our love came through it stronger and deeper than ever." Thank you God for giving this wonderful woman to me. I will cherish and protect her forever, I promise.

"You’re really something you know that don’t you." It was a statement pure and simple, and that statement was so woefully lacking when it came to describe my angel.

"You’re just slightly biased, I think, you know that?" my wife grinned.

"True, true…" I remarked casually.

The turn out leading to ‘The Lobster Tail’ came into view and I guided the SUV into our usual parking place. We entered the restaurant and were greeted immediately, warmly by the proprietor Bernie Lowenstern. His restaurant was a popular ‘watering hole’ frequented by the Hollywood beautiful people. I wasn’t totally comfortable with being grouped among these folks, but because of who my wife was, I was included in the crowd. For the last thirty-nine years, Becca has been such a huge part of me, I often don’t know where I stop and she begins, and frankly I don’t care. So, I went along with the ‘beautiful people’ tag quite willingly.

"Aahh, Rebecca, Stacey it is so good to have you here. You have stayed away too long. I have your table ready for you as always. Arthur, see to it that Dr. and Mrs. McGregor are well cared for. They are my guests for the evening." Before I could register a complaint about free food, the little Jewish man was gone to see to his other guests.

"This way if you please," Arthur ordered rather stiffly. "May I bring you something to drink before dinner, Madame?"

"Where did this guy come from?" I whispered to my angel, as we were seated at our table.

"Hush," my angel warned. "Yes Arthur, we’d like a bottle of Blue Nun please. That okay with you, honey?" I nodded, following my wife’s order to hush.

"Very good Madame," Arthur replied curtly, "I shall return presently." After Arthur was out of earshot, I asked.

"God, what’s up with him?" Becca, always patient with my lack of the same, explained.

"He was the maitre d at ‘Le France’, but left because he didn’t like the clientele." What the hell does that mean? Shut up and let Becca explain and maybe you’d find out. "It seems the clientele didn’t suit him." I raised an eyebrow in mock imitation of my angel.

"Oh for God sakes. What does he think he’ll find here?" My confusion was apparent.

"Honey, it’s very simple really. You and me." Becca smiled.

"Oh that make perfect sense. What the hell does that mean?" I demanded.

"Baby, it seems you have a fan. Arthur’s sister and nephew were your patients. They were badly abused, on numerous occasions, by her husband. The last time, they were brought in to the trauma center was last summer. Cara and Devon Murphy, remember?" my wife asked.

I did remember. The woman and her three-year-old son were beaten and badly burned in an aborted house fire. Frank Murphy beat both mother and son unconscious, then set the house on fire. He figured to collect her life insurance. It would have worked too except for the nosy next door neighbor who called the police and fire department. Murphy was arrested and is spending twenty to life for arson and attempted murder. Fortunately, mother and son recovered fully and are now living near San Diego with her mother.

"Huh, well I’ll be damned. The guy quit his job to come work here because of me? That’s kinda weird don’t you think?" I was taken aback by Becca’s revelation.

"I don’t think so at all," my world replied incredulously. "You really aren’t aware of how well known you are, not only in this community, but throughout the world, are you? Honey, you do such wonderful work, people admire you a great deal. You’re something of a celebrity, but of the best kind. You repair little children’s beaten and battered bodies, many times without pay. And then you wonder why people admire you? Get real baby."

"Yeah…well…"

"Don’t yeah well me, darling. You are a very caring, gentle, person, who does wonderful things for people simply because it’s the right thing to do. People admire you for that, so get used to it. Arthur is just one of those people."

"It’s just I’m not comfortable with people heaping praise on me. I just do what I’ve been trained to do, that’s all, but I guess you’re right." God smartass, I’ve been telling you this for years, it’s about time you got it. Yeah well, I never listen to you.

"Of course I’m right. Have I ever steered you wrong before?" my lover smiled.

"No my heart, never. I don’t know why I didn’t listen to you about this too," I grinned. "What would you like to eat, the usual, or something different?"

"Mmm, I think we should go for it tonight. How about we have salmon steaks and shrimp scampi? And we could have a Caesar Salad and another bottle of Blue Nun. Sound okay?"

"Yes indeed, my dear. Only, if I didn’t know better, I would think you were trying to get me drunk with all this wine. You wouldn’t happen to have an ulterior motive would ya now?"

"Stacey Lynn McGregor, after all these years, I am shocked that you would think me capable of such devious machinations!" My angel teased.

"Baby, it’s because we’ve been together all these years that I know just exactly what you’re capable of," I shot back. "And I love it! Just don’t get me too drunk. I’d hate to pass out or go to sleep right in the middle of something really good. That would be a little embarrassing, don’t you think?" My heart and soul shook her head.

"No my darling. It just shows you are relaxed, and feel safe in my hands. I think that is very special. I love you so much my soul."

"And I love you, my heart. Now, shall we order dinner?"

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

"That movie was really a hoot," Syd laughed.

"How would you know?" Ange teased.

"Yeah," David added, "you two were making goo goo eyes at each other a whole lot more than at the movie screen."

"I beg your pardon?" Syd shot back. "We knew exactly what was going on, isn’t that right Scott? Scott, Scott!! Hellooo, earth to Scott."

"Oh I’m sorry, did you say something to me?" Scott had been lost, staring lovingly at Syd.

"Heh, I rest my case," Ange smirked.

"Thanks a lot, Scott," Syd sighed, "we were talking about the movie and how funny it was. I was explaining how engrossed we were in the plot, not in each other, right?" Syd emphasized her remarks with a sharp elbow in Scott’s ribs.

"Huh, oh yeah, right, the movie," Scott hurriedly tried to recover his lapse in concentration. "It was really funny. Especially when Mel Gibson was trying to get those panty hose on. Can you imagine? No guy in their right mind would wear panty hose."

"Yeah," David chimed in, "no real man would wear panty hose."

"Oh I don’t know," Syd replied slowly, "my grandfather used to wear them all the time." Three shocked faces instantly turned in Syd’s direction.

"Harley wore panty hose???!!!" Three voices rang out together. "No way!!!"

"Yes way," Syd defended her gramps immediately. "When he rode his motorcycle in the cold weather, he used to wear panty hose under his Wranglers. He said they were warmer than his long underwear, and not as bulky. So there," Syd stuck out her tongue at them all. "And I’ll bet not one of you would like to tell my gramps to his face he isn’t a real man, would you?" Of course no one would take on that little task, and they all shook their heads adamantly and in unison.

"So there ya are. Now let’s go eat, shall we?" Scott took Syd’s hand and intertwined their fingers together.

"I’m with you babe, where do you want to go?" He asked enthusiastically.

"How about Antonio’s for pizza? Ange, David, what do you think?" The other couple was all for that.

"Sounds good to me," David replied. "Ange that okay?" Ange nodded.

"You bet, then let’s go to Garcia’s for dessert?" Four heads nodded in agreement and with that, the two couples headed for the parking lot and their car. Once at the car, Scott stopped his brother.

"Hey bro," Scott whispered, "do me a favor would you?" David looked at his older brother suspiciously.

"Okay," he said slowly, "what do you want?"

"Um…well…I…uh…would you and Ange sit up front? You wouldn’t mind driving would you? You know so Syd and I could sit in the back and talk. C’mon what’d ya say?" David just shook his head.

"Man bro, you really got it bad don’t you? You’d even let me drive the ‘sacred cow’ just so you and Syd can cuddle? Boy, this is rich. Wait till the guys hear about this!" David laughed. Instantly the expression on Scott’s face changed to something akin to mild rage.

"Now wait a minute little brother," Scott growled, "you go spreading gossip about Syd and I’ll…" David immediately decided discretion was the better part of valor.

"Hey, lighten up big brother," David rushed to his own defense, "I was just kidding. You know I would never say or do anything to embarrass you or Syd. You’re my bro man, and we stick together, right?" Scott’s anger subsided as quickly as it rose.

"Yeah, I know. It’s just where Syd is concerned I’m a little over protective, ya know? She just means so much to me. She’s good and kind, and doesn’t deserve any crap, got it?" David nodded knowingly.

"You can count on me, bro," David smiled and slapped his brother heartily on the back. "Ange and I would be glad to sit up front. Besides, it isn’t everyday you let me drive the ‘sacred cow’."

"Well just be sure you keep it under the speed limit and not so much as a scratch or you’ll be looking for a hole to hide in, little brother." Scott warned.

Scott was very proud of his black 1973 Chevy Malibu. It was in mint condition, and meticulously cared for. He rarely let David drive, and never loaned it to anyone. He had found it in a junkyard, and bought it for next to nothing. He completely redid the thing. He replaced the engine, seats, covers, paint job, everything. It was truly his baby. His car was the one thing in his life that meant the most to him, until now, until Syd. Ange and Syd were beginning to wonder what the hold-up was and true to form, Ange didn’t beat around the bush.

"Are we gonna go eat or what? You know we can’t wait much longer. Syd’s stomach is starting to make funny rumbling noises and you know what that means." Ange loved teasing Syd about her voracious appetite. Syd, on the other hand, wasn’t always appreciative of being the butt of people’s food jokes. But tonight wasn’t one of those nights. She was having the time of her life, and was willing to go along with the fun even if it meant being a little self-deprecating.

"I resemble that remark," Syd joked, "and if we don’t get moving things could get really ugly. So let’s move it."

"Yes ma’am," Scott snapped to attention and opened the car door for his date. "Your chariot awaits, my dear." Scott reached out and gently took Syd’s hand and helped her into the back seat.

"Why thank you, sir. It is good to know chivalry isn’t dead." Syd curtsied slightly and accepted Scott’s hand while disappearing into the car.

"Oh my God," Ange groaned, "nothing will ever be the same again. Syd’s in love."

At the mentioned of the word love, Syd snapped to attention. Was she in love? Did she even know what the word meant? Of course she did. After all, she had spent her entire life surrounded by love. She had seen it in its purest form with her parents and grandparents. But she never thought about being in love herself. Did she love Scott? No, not in the way her parents loved each other, but she felt something for Scott, something that went beyond friendship. She liked the way she felt when Scott kissed her, and she wanted to feel that again. The sound of her name being called brought her out of her reverie.

"Syd, are you okay? Are you going to get into the car or not?" Ange was asking.

"Oh sure, of course," Syd replied. "C’mon guys, let’s go get some food. I’m starved." Everyone settled into his or her respective seats and David started the car and drove away.

"Uh, Syd," Scott began, "are you sure you’re all right? You were kinda out of it there for awhile."

"I’m sorry Scott. I was just thinking." Scott took Syd’s hand in his much larger one.

"Do you want to talk about it? I mean, I don’t want to intrude, but if you want to tell me, I’d be glad to listen." Scott’s voice was barely above a whisper, and Syd couldn’t resist snuggling into Scott’s broad shoulder.

"I don’t mind telling you at all," Syd began. "I was thinking about us and what I want with you. At first I just wanted to be your friend, hang out together, ya know? But now, I don’t know. I think I want more, but I don’t know what comes next." Suddenly Syd felt very shy and embarrassed. "You must think I’m really a goof, huh?" Scott put his arm around Syd and pulled her into his strong arms. Gently he kissed her forehead and whispered.

"I don’t think you’re a goof at all. I think you’re a very special person, and I want to be more than just friends too. But I’m like you; I don’t know what we should do next. I don’t think we’re ready for the next step, do you?" Scott was very careful not to say the words sex or make love. He was afraid to put a name to the act because he didn’t want to ruin the moment. Syd sensed his uncertainty; she felt it too. She snuggled deeper into his embrace and kissed his neck, just below his ear.

"Scott, I know. I agree. We’re too young, and we have too much to look forward to, too much to explore and learn about each other without adding sex into the mix." Syd explained. "Besides, I could never keep something like that from my folks, and they wouldn’t be mad at me. They wouldn’t yell or scream, but they would be really disappointed that I might not be thinking things through clearly enough; I don’t ever want to disappoint them. And Scott, I think your parents would feel the same way, and you wouldn’t want to disappoint them either, right?" Scott sighed. Syd could feel his head nod against hers.

"You’re right. Mom and dad would be pretty upset. And unlike your folks, my dad would yell, a lot, and loudly." Both teenagers laughed at the thought.

"Not doubt. Not only that, my grandfather would have a fit. He’d probably want to string you up by the thumbs and leave you dangle." Syd patted Scott’s belly playfully.

"God, that’s scary. He’d do it too wouldn’t he?" Scott asked.

"He’d try, but I’d protect you," Syd laughed.

"Thanks babe, I appreciate that." Scott kissed the top of Syd’s head. "I think I have found a new best friend, and you know what?"

"What?" Syd asked.

"It feels really good," Scott said.

"It does, doesn’t it, friend." Syd wormed even deeper into Scott’s strong arms, totally contented. Yep, I think this is love she thought blissfully.

Chapter 3: Midnight delight

I pulled my black Chevy Blazer into the driveway, and pushed the button on the remote control which opened the garage door. I stopped the SUV, turned off the ignition and just sat there for a moment before I turned to my angel.

"Did you have fun tonight baby?" I asked.

"Oh sweetheart, I had a wonderful time. But then I always do whenever I’m with you, no matter what we do. I just enjoy our being together," my angel smiled. "What about you? Did you enjoy yourself?"

My angel moved closer until our shoulders were touching. Then she moved further until she lifted herself into my lap, and straddled my hips. Oh God, she’s gonna ravage me right here in the car, in the garage. We haven’t done that in awhile. Warm lips descended upon mine, my angel’s tongue sneaked out to run sensuously over my lips begging for entrance which was freely given. Both our tongues entwined, tasting warm soft flesh before moving on. God how I love this woman. Breathlessly we broke our kiss just in time to hear a car pull into the driveway.

"Damn," I growled, but my wife failed to acknowledge my voice. "Honey, I think Syd’s home. We’ll have a lot of explaining to do if she and her friends find us like this." My angel was showing no signs of stopping. She took advantage of her position in my lap to kiss and suck my throat, ears, neck, and any other exposed skin her talented tongue could reach. I had to admit I didn’t want her to stop, but my brain was saying stop, while the rest of my body was responding to my wife’s loving ministrations.

"I don’t think we’ll have to explain anything baby," my lover purred. "Syd’s a big girl, and she and her friends know all about the birds and the bees. I’m sure she’ll understand fully what we are doing." My God, I couldn’t believe what my wife was saying. She really had no intentions of stopping, and frankly I didn’t care. Soft warm lips latched on to a particularly tender spot just below my ear.

"Oh yeah baby, that feels so good. God yes." Good? My God what was I saying? "Baby, baby, stop, please honey, we have to stop. The kids are gonna catch us. Honey, please." Finally, after a good deal of pleading…I never thought I’d live to see this day…oh shut up…my angel stopped her loving torture. Oh God I didn’t want her to stop, but…I must be going through some sort of mid-life crisis or something…or something is right! Would you get lost!!! Deep cerulean pools gazed at me in disappointment, but also with a hint of impish mischief.

"Okay," my angel pouted, "but you feel and taste so good, my love." I was having such a hard time being strong, but someone had to be. I mean I have to set an example for my daughter, right? Since when? Are you still here? All right, I’m going. Anyway, I need to take care of some business.

"Honey, I didn’t mean we had to stop all night. I just mean we have to stop long enough to get to the bedroom." My eyebrows waggled evilly up and down to emphasize my point.

"Hot damn," my lover yelled, "what are we waiting for."

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

"Shhh," Syd warned, "can’t you two be quiet? We don’t want to wake up the whole house, and besides, the dogs like Mexican food, if you get my drift." Scott and David swallowed hard at the implication of the kind of damage Syd’s two Rotweilers could do to prowlers.

"Hey," David whispered harshly, "are you making a crack about my ancestry? I’ll have you up on charges of being a racist." Scott slapped his little brother playfully upside the head. "Ow, why are you hitting me. Your Hispanic too ya know." Another slap came from the opposite direction as Ange let David know he was outnumbered. "Man, I’m surrounded by an entire hate group here." The three friends couldn’t help but laugh, which drew Syd’s ire again.

"They also are partial to Irish stew as well, Flannery. So all of you shut up!" Syd’s warning came too late as two large, dark menacing canines came charging around the corner, barking loudly, teeth barred and hackles raised. "Great, this is just great!" Syd growled. "I otta let them eat you all for lunch." At being included on the menu, Scott protested his innocence.

"Hey, why are you adding me into the mix," Scott lamented, "I didn’t do anything!" Syd felt instantly sorry for her new boyfriend.

"Oh, poor baby," Syd crooned, "I’m sorry I upset my big man." With that, Syd leaned in and planted a tender kiss on said man’s lips. "There, all better?" Syd asked sweetly. Scott could only nod weakly, totally disarmed by Syd’s kiss.

"Oh yeah, better, much better."

"Oh brother," Ange groaned, "this is just too sad to watch. Come along, Taco, let’s go raid Syd’s fridge while these two smooch."

"Taco?" David protested, "what’s that supposed to mean? I’m not sure I like all these racial slurs. It’s demeaning." It was Ange’s turn to turn on the charm with a wet, sloppy kiss. David immediately turned to mush.

"Think of it as a term of endearment. Now c’mon, there’s bound to be some of Margie’s left-over lasagna in the kitchen." And, just like that Ange and David were gone, leaving Syd and Scott alone by the back gate. The two friends gazed into each other’s eyes for long moments before Syd spoke.

"So, do you want to go in and have a snack or shall we sit out side by the pool for a bit?" Syd looked expectantly into the dark brown eyes of her companion.

"I’d like to stay out here for awhile, if that’s okay with you," Scott whispered.

"I’d like that too, Scott." Syd replied.

The two friends sat side by side in the lounge chairs sitting by the pool in companionable silence for some time before Scott spoke.

"I really had a good time tonight Syd, I hope you did too." Scott seemed so ill at ease, and Syd couldn’t help but smile at his discomfort. He was trying so hard to be cool, and failing miserably. But still he made the effort, and that made her feel very special. The pool lights and lamps that bordered the patio illuminated Syd’s face, giving her a soft, almost ethereal glow.

"I did too Scott, and I’d like to go out again, if you wanted to ask me of course." Both Syd and Scott were feeling their way along in the uncharted waters of a budding relationship and neither one wanted to mess things up.

"I’d like to go out with you again Syd. In fact, I can’t think of another person I would rather spend time with than you." Scott confided. "Only you," he added timidly.

"I feel the same way Scott," Syd confirmed.

"Really! You mean it? I mean you’d like to go steady? You’d be my lady?" Scott was ecstatic and dumbfounded at the same time.

"Yes Scott, I would, very much." Syd murmured softly.

Slowly, tentatively, afraid that if he moved too quickly he would spoil the moment, Scott took Syd in his arms and held her close to his broad chest. He kissed the top of her head and made a surprisingly simple, yet profound admission.

"I’ve never felt like this about anyone before. I think I’m falling in love with you Syd, but I’m not sure I know how I’m supposed to feel. You probably think I sound really stupid."

"No I don’t Scott. I feel something more than friendship for you too, but I don’t know if it’s love either. My folks say that when I meet the one person I want to spend the rest of my life with, I’ll know. They said it would just feel right. Scott, your holding me like this just feels very right to me. That’s the only way I know how to explain my feelings."

"That’s the same way I feel Syd, believe me, I do care so very much for you. My mom told me when I find the right person, she will be very special, and I’ll know. She was right. You are special and I think you are the right person for me. But I guess the only way to know for sure is get to know each other better.

"I think that’s a very good idea," Syd breathed.

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

"My God that felt so good my love," I gasped. "The things you do to me, darling." My angel snuggled deeper into my arms, as I pulled the sheet up over our sweat-chilled bodies.

"Mmmm, yes my soul, we are very good together. You do very marvelous things to me too." Becca murmured. "Every time we make love, it gets better and better. At this rate, can you imagine what we’ll be like by the time we get to be ninety?" I couldn’t help but chuckle.

"Baby, if you keep doing the things you do to me, I may not live to be ninety. But what a way to go, lying in your arms, loving you. I can’t imagine a better way to go." I thought my comments would be received favorably, but I was wrong.

"Stacey Lynn McGregor, don’t you ever say anything like that again. I would be devastated if you died in my arms. Oh God, it would be like I killed you. I could never live with myself if that happened."

"Honey, I’m sorry. I was trying to be funny, and it backfired. I would never want our lovemaking to be something other than a wonderful memory for both of us. I love you so. For always and forever."

"I know my soul, it’s just the thought of living without you is too terrible to even imagine." My angel whispered.

"Yes my heart, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. The last breath I take I want to be with you, that’s a promise." I vowed.

"I’m going to hold you to that my soul," Becca uttered softly.

The two of us snuggled deeper into each other’s embrace safe in the knowledge we would always have our love to shelter and protect us. I found myself thinking about my earlier reverie hoping our daughter would find her soul mate as well. I prayed she would know only sweet love her whole life with one person just as her mother and I had. I wondered too if she would have a little voice to help her along the way. Hopefully she would be more fortunate than I and her voice won’t be so intrusive. I heard that! I was counting on it.

Well I think this is it folks, the end of ‘The Lost and Found Series’. I thank you for staying with me for the duration. I have gotten some remarkably great feedback. The response was quite overwhelming, and greatly appreciated. There may be a sequel to this story. Maybe a second-generation thing. I plan to finish ‘The Real Dreams’ series as well, but I’m in the process of moving to another state, so my web page will be down for about a month until I can get settled in a permanent location and get a new ISP. Again, thank you all. I’ll be writing again soon, Fantasy.