DRAGONJULS' Storybook

~ Improbable Protector ~
The Sequel to The Sequel

J M Dragon

© 2003 by J M Dragon
Email:  jmdragon@jmdragon.net

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Love/Sex : This story features the possibility of  consensual relationship between adult women.  If this bothers you, is illegal in the State, Province or Country you live or if you are  under the age of 18, find something else to read. There are loads of general stories out there.

Language: Use of some harsh and strong language depicting certain subject matter is utilized to employ and set the tone and behavior of specific circumstances in the story, as well as some general characterizations.

Violence:  Not  in this story.

Hurt/Comfort: There is definitely some hurt/emotional discomfort in this one, and some brief scenes of angst and heartache to be dealt with by the characters.

Dedication: This story is for Mel.

Acknowledgement: Alice and Packer,  thank you for all your help and support.

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Part Two

Jack watched the two singers complete the duet the studio had insisted on for the TV award show tomorrow afternoon. At first Jojo hadn’t been keen on the idea. Tandy’s style was rather different from hers, but the compensation was that one of the older woman’s songs was being used and there was more than a possibility that the duet would be released into the world after the show. Both of the women had been riding high in the public awareness during the last three months. Tandy with the younger crowd, while Jojo, whose tremendous comeback tour ended on a high note, had a new group of fans. However, personally, it must have been one of the lowest she had ever encountered after some scumbag attempted to violently abduct Fleur, Jojo’s best friend and manager.

At first, Fleur had taken it all in her stride, but shortly after she’d broken down with the strain. Reluctantly, Jojo had insisted she go home to her family for a much-needed rest. After the award show, the singer planned a trip to New York to see her own folks and check up on the woman who was sorely missed in the singer’s life. Reflecting on what he knew of Jojo Lackerly, he shook his head ruefully. When she appeared to be on a roll, suddenly something came along to rock her boat and tip her back into the ocean of life’s uncertainties.

The session came to an end and Tandy flung her arms around the older woman kissing her cheek and shrieking her delight at the way the song had gone. Jack watched the exchange and saw the strain on Jojo’s face. Yep, that girl needs a vacation.

“Great cut, ladies, I think we will wow them tomorrow.” Jack cut in on the squealing from the younger woman.

Tandy grinned at the record producer whispering something to Jojo who nodded her head absently as the young woman left the studio. “Want to go for coffee, Jo?”

She glanced up at the man whom she felt comfortable with on all levels. He was very like a father figure to her though she was sure there wasn’t much difference in their ages, ten years tops. “Yeah, I could murder for a coffee, Jack.” Placing her guitar carefully in the case and locking it, she left the studio meeting him in the corridor.

“You look tired, Jo, have you been staying out late?” His smile warm and friendly; the enquiry could be answered or not, he left it open.

“Nope, just can’t seem to sleep very well.”

As they entered his office suite, he opened the door to his personal space and told his secretary not to bother him, indicating coffee and sandwiches would be a bonus.

Ten minutes later, piping hot coffee and a delicious range of food arrived for them and they both indulged until they couldn’t eat any more.

Settling back on the sofa opposite Jojo, he smiled at her slowly, “Any news from, Fleur?”

“I talked with her last night. She’s doing good, wants to come back to work.” Jojo had a tender expression on her face as she spoke.

“That’s great news. Have the police given her any more indication about when the case will come to court?”

“I think it’s scheduled for arraignment next month. I hope they put the bastard away forever!” The words spit out vehemently.

“Good chance of that considering the circumstances. Will she be required as a witness?”

Jojo sighed heavily, “Probably, the son of a bitch refuses to plead guilty and a trial will require Fleur to give evidence. I was hoping she would never have to face him again. Can you believe the gall of the man, he hasn’t got a chance!”

“Sometimes when people are backed into a corner, they try anything and to him, that’s attempting to circumvent justice in any way possible. You haven’t said much about the guy, but I take it you know him well?” Jack had heard the sordid facts of the event, but not exactly where this guy fit in or why he would want to harm Fleur to take such a public chance.

“Know the slime ball! I wish I didn’t, but yeah, yeah we both do. I only met him around the time I met Fleur in Danvers. He was the banker there and pretty much had the town sewn up on the financial side. He knew everything that went down in that town and had a passion for Fleur. At one stage, they were engaged.”

“Wow, so it was a crime of passion, the abduction attempt?”

“Hardly, the bastard knew he could force his attentions on Fleur when she was losing her livelihood and the last vestige of property she possessed. I intervened and asked her to come away with me when you offered to listen to my music.” Jojo’s mind vividly recalled that totally spontaneous offer. So unlike her and was she glad that for once she’d followed her heart rather than her sometimes suspicious mind.

“I’m glad I could help in a small way. Are Fleur Danvers and the town of Danvers inter-related in anyway?”

“Yep, her great, great grandfather founded the town way back, well whenever it was founded. A family thing she was very proud of. By the time she’d gained maturity, it was all but a note in the local history books. She had few options when she accepted Andrews’ proposal. I came along at the wrong time or the right one, depending on your point of view.”

“I’m glad she accepted your offer.” Jack watched the singer closely. He saw her smile at a memory she obviously cherished came to mind he suspected.

“As am I, where would I be without her.”

“I’ll second that, although I’ll not tell you my thoughts on that subject. What about Tandy?”

“What about her?” Jojo looked sharply at the man. What had the girl to do with her and Fleur?

Laughing at the puzzled expression, he poured them both the last dregs of the coffee and grinned at her wickedly. “You do know she has a crush on you, right?”

“What! Get out of here, Jack. She’s a kid barely out of high school and other than being sometimes a little too over zealous at the sessions, she’s not interested in anything but getting to the top.” Jojo chuckled at the absurd thought. Wait until she told Fleur this one tonight when they talked on the phone.

“Mark my words, Jo, she has her eye on you, I’ve seen it all before.” The man settled back in his chair. A wicked smile traced his lips as he sipped his coffee.

“I’m old enough to be her mother and I’ve never encouraged her!” Jojo pondered that, had she?

“When a kid like that takes a fancy to an older person, it’s hard to stop the force of nature.”

“Jack, if Fleur finds out about this she’s going to go ballistic. I can’t have anything upset her now...not when she’s starting to feel better.” Standing up, she started pacing the room as she wondered why Jack would tell her this.

“Precisely why I wanted to point it out to you in no uncertain terms. Fleur already has inkling about Tandy thinking you are something special. Being in a fragile state at the moment, she might get the feeling she’s no longer important to you.”

Snorting at the ridiculous comment, “Yeah right, Jack! Fleur and I are friends, close friends. She knows that I have no feelings for the kid other than to wish her every success, and I do. Hell, she’s doing me a favour by singing some of my songs. The royalties are flooding in, soon I won’t have to sing for my supper.”

Jack laughed, “You don’t have to now, do you?”

“No, thanks to you I don’t, but I want to do something for Fleur and it will take at least another platinum CD before I can contemplate retirement.” Jojo gave the man the full thrust of her dynamic personality as she saw his jaw drop.

“Hey, I was only teasing! You’re not thinking of retiring, are you?”

“Nope! It’s in my blood, Jack. Until the day you want to get rid of me, I’m going to be singing like a canary or until the day they put the lid on my coffin,” grinning, she made for the door waving goodbye and blowing him a kiss as she left his office.

Jack stared after her retreating back, his mind going over their conversation; it had been interesting. Especially the way she went all defensive over Fleur and Tandy. Even more interesting was the idea that Jojo wasn’t adverse to a gay relationship. Maybe there was more to her and Fleur’s friendship after all. In this day, being gay didn’t matter in this industry if you had talent and Jojo certainly had that in abundance.

~ ~ ~

Karen Adams watched her daughter with a suspicious gleam in her eye. Had she been working behind her back again in the hotel? Walking silently over to the reception area she placed a finger to her lips when the receptionist was about to advise Fleur of her mother’s arrival in the building.

“Ah, I see your up to your old tricks again, Fleur.” Spinning around guiltily, her faced flushed, Fleur grinned sheepishly at her mother.

“Good afternoon to you too, mother and I haven’t done much, have I, Sybil?” Fleur moved around the counter to hug her mother and kissing her cheek in welcome.

“No, no, only arranged the flowers. You know she has a flair that puts my attempts to shame.” The young woman receptionist smiled then picked up an incoming call.

“Hmm, that had better be all you’ve been doing today.” At the look in her daughter’s eyes, Karen’s stance changed as she gave in to the pathetic glance. “Ok, you can do the arrangements until you go back to Nashville. How is Joanna anyway, did she call last night?” She slyly asked knowing that the singer would have called. She did promptly every evening, much to everyone else’s amusement and Fleur’s joy.

“Oh yes, I’m beginning to think some of my scheduling tactics have finally paid off because she calls pretty much the same time every evening.” The wonder that her friend remembered did so promptly despite her busy time in the studio and the awards ceremony amazed her.

“How is she and when’s she coming home to see you?” Karen didn’t mince her words knowing her daughter’s love for the singer, unrequited at that, hurt her deeply. But, no persuasion from her could force Fleur to talk to Joanna about her feelings. Even the singer’s parents approved of the match. Alex took a little longer in understanding Fleur’s feelings, but he loved her as one of his own and decided with great delight that he would gain Fleur as a daughter.

“The awards ceremony is this afternoon and she’ll call me afterwards to tell me how it went. If the studio does well, I’ll have to wait until she gets out of the party atmosphere that’s going to surround her. Joanna never thinks that others want a piece of her attention.”

“Is she due an award?” Karen hadn’t heard anything, even from her friends, Joanna’s parents.

“Hmm, maybe by default. Her song is up for best single of the year.” Fleur grinned at her mother.

“Really, but she hasn’t had a new song out for ages, has she?”

“Sorry, Mom, I meant she wrote the song that’s up for best single. Tandy Radnor sang the song. It was at the top for five weeks, I think. Ask Bradley, he’ll know, he has her pictures in his room.”

“Bradley has Joanna’s pictures in his room, since when, I haven’t seen them?” Karen was surprised she hadn’t and she was in there only two days ago.

“No, Mom! Tandy Radnor’s. Heck, let’s leave it, shall we? I could do with tea what about you, by the way where are Bradley and Grayson?” Looking towards the entrance of the small hotel to check for her half-brother and stepfather.

“Should be back soon, the doctors wanted to do another test. Grayson told me to leave, there was no point in us both staying around.” Karen’s voice held the pain she felt at the current situation of her youngest child.

Fleur saw the tears welling up in her mother’s eyes. Placing a comforting arm around her shoulders she led her inside the office, which led to the small sitting room of the rooms she used when she stayed at home.

“What are they saying now, Mom?” Fleur asked gently as she settled her mother on the sofa. She then switched on the kettle to make them a nice cup of soothing tea.

“Not much really, what can they say. It’s a rare blood disorder even they aren’t sure what will happen next.” Her mother, who was normally so bubbly, seemed to grow old and weary as she watched.

“He’s going to be okay though, Mom, isn’t he? I mean...there isn’t a threat of...” Fleur stopped herself unable to say death though both women knew that was exactly the word left unsaid.

A single tear dropped from Karen’s lashes as she looked up, her expression anguished and sad, “I don’t know, Fleur. This time around he’s been so sick I thought he wasn’t going to make it. I don’t want him to die, Fleur, he’s so young and has so much to see and do. He’s hardly had any life.”

The tears burst out as Karen finally let go of her own overwhelming helplessness. Fleur, desperately wanting to cry too, rushed over and crouched at her mother’s side placing her arms around her in a comforting hold. The boy had such a good heart it was too much to think that he could die so young. This happened to other people not someone you knew.

Both women needed the tears they shed, to stop them bottling up their feelings. At least Bradley wouldn’t know...he hated to see anything making his family upset.

Wiping away their collective tears, they saw the family jeep turn into the parking spot outside the sitting room window. They watched Grayson and then Bradley, a bit more slowly exit the vehicle. The boy’s tall frame emaciated with his months of illness and the once boyishly healthy looking skin now pale and gaunt.

“He looks good, Mom, he’s smiling.” Fleur watched as the two men walked towards the entrance.

“Yes, he is, just like his dad. Nothing phases Grayson.” Karen checked her appearance in the mirror and drew in a deep breath. With a plastered on smile she followed Fleur out of the office area to greet the rest of the family.

“Hi, Brad, I was telling mom that you have pics of Tandy Radnor on your walls. Going to fess up to that one?” the young man gave her a grin, his eyes sparkling at the question.

“Sure thing, Fleur, she’s one cool babe.” Bradley responded enthusiastically.

“I’ve met her, did I ever tell you?”

“Fleur, really! Wow, cool, can you get me a signed photo, please? That would really rock!” Karen and Grayson watched the two siblings talk about pop stars and music.

“What did the doctors say, Gray?” Karen quietly asked the man who was watching the children with a smile on his face.

Turning to his wife at the question. “Same as usual, we have to wait for the results.”

“I know you, Grayson, what aren’t you telling me? It’s in your eyes at least, isn’t it, you never could tell me a lie.” Karen saw her husband visibly gulp this obviously wasn’t the place for the conversation.

“How about we leave our kids to talk music for a short time and we’ll talk in Fleur’s room, okay?”

“Okay.”

“You guys, we’ll be back in a minute, Brad, if you get tired, sit. Somehow I don’t see your sister picking you up off the floor.”

“Yeah, yeah, dad.” The boy grinned at his parents as he and Fleur moved towards the comfort of a sofa in the reception area.

“Hey, Bradley, I was thinking.”

“Yeah?” the young man grinned at his older sister. Gaining a sister so late in life, even if he had known she was around someplace, hadn’t been such a burden as he’d expected. She was so nice and didn’t exactly fit in as a sister, more of a friend.

“Joanna is a good friend...well, friend, anyway, of Tandy’s. Would you like to meet her?” Last evening they had briefly discussed Tandy Radnor’s apparent crush on Joanna, but had decided that they needed to talk one on one over the situation and would once Joanna arrived in New York.

The boy’s face lit up at the possibility. “Fleur, do you know how great that would be?”

“Apparently very, from the expression on your face.” She smiled gently as his face coloured for the first time in weeks. For the moment shaking off the pale tinge.

“When?” Bradley asked eagerly.

Laughing at his enthusiasm, “Joanna is arriving tomorrow afternoon, hopefully, and as soon as she does, we’ll talk to her about it. What do you say to that?”

“I’m going to talk with Jojo Lackerly?” this time Fleur couldn’t help the amusement that bubbled inside and finally tumbled out as she laughed out loud.

“Bradley, you’ve met Joanna before!”

“Yeah, but she’s even bigger now. A real star! Especially now that she’s working with Tandy.” Fleur had to stop herself from getting wound up at the remark. Tandy was, after all, in his age group.

“Oh, working with Tandy, is it? I’ll tell her you approve.”

The boy grinned happily. Their parents watched them, a sad expression hidden in their eyes. They observed the two children they loved enjoying time together, precious time at that.

~ ~ ~

As the award ceremony came to an end along with the luncheon, many began adjourning to other venues...their table included. Having taken three awards, many people wanted them to visit their particular party eager to be associated with the success in any way.

Jack stood up with a wide grin on his face as he turned to a senior executive of the company who had a major shareholding in Trigon records. Fortunately for Jojo, it hadn’t been Lee Weston, her ex-fiancé. “I think we have cause to celebrate and celebrate big time, especially our two starlets here.” He looked over and smiled at Tandy then winked in Jojo’s direction.

“Jack, do you mind if I call it a day? I have to catch a flight early tomorrow.” At the look and disappointed groans from around the table, she rolled her eyes.

“Wouldn’t be a party without you, Jo, you deserve most of the praise. You wrote the best song and had a hand in many of the songs on Tandy’s album.” Knowing that of the three awards: best single, album and new artist, Jojo deserved much of the credit. Hers was the material Tandy sang which had propelled her to the top so quickly and decisively.

While wondering what she should do, Tandy pounced on her and flung her arms around the older woman, “Come on, Jo, let’s party together. I’ll see you have a good time.” The young woman pleaded and unable to get herself out of the leech-like hold she was held in, she nodded her head.

“I’ll be there an hour then I’m going, okay?”

Jack grinned and Jojo had to close her ears to the shattering sound of Tandy’s screech in her ear. What had she let herself into? Roll on tomorrow and back to the peace she felt with Fleur by her side.

~ ~ ~

“Mom, he can’t die! Surely there is something we can do?” Fleur refused to disguise the tears that trickled copiously down her cheeks at the tragic and unbelievable news.

“Grayson tells me the doctors have a very grave prognosis for Bradley. Not much more than three months, less if he picks up another bug. I thought we’d beaten it, Fleur. He hadn’t been sick for several years until that last bout and...oh God, Fleur, what are we going to do!” The words at first had held back the terror Karen was feeling at losing her only son. Now they tumbled out, the pain etched in the tone and the woman’s face. Was this her penalty for leaving one child behind years before? She had often wondered if that was the price she and Grayson had to pay for their happiness. Stupid she knew, but the thought wrapped around her like ivy strangling all other sensible reasoning.

“Have we tried everything, Mom, really everything?” Fleur was pacing the small sitting room in her family space. Bradley was too good to die. It wasn’t fair he was too young. Why couldn’t God take her instead, she’d had more of a life than her brother.

Hanging her head, she sat down heavily on the sofa as she tried to sift through all the tests they’d undergone since Bradley was four years old. Not only was it a virus of the blood they had never seen before, they didn’t know how to treat it. Bradley had done so good over the years, but now it looked like his immune system couldn’t cope anymore.  “Yes, Fleur, there really isn’t anything left to consider. If there were, he’d be there now, even if I had to give up the hotel to pay for it.”

Fleur knew that her family had already mortgaged the small hotel to the limit to pay for Bradley’s treatments over the years and there wasn’t much left they could do financially. She only had a few thousand dollars saved but not enough to make any difference if there was anything left to do. “What about a second opinion, Mom?”

“We have, Fleur. The last time he was sick, about five years ago, we had several opinions and even flew to Europe to talk to an expert in blood disorders. He couldn’t offer us any help either.” Karen’s voice sank low, the hurt cracking her voice. She didn’t know what to do other than watch her child suffer, what else could she do.

“Mom, that was five years ago! Maybe he’s come across something that might help now. It’s possible, can we call him?” Fleur hung onto the only thread of hope she could see, what did they have to lose.

For a moment Karen’s eyes sparkled at the glimmer of hope but soon dulled, “They would have told us, Fleur.”

“Not necessarily, Mom. You need to ask, shall we ask?” Fleur brightened at the thought they could ask. It was worth the phone call.

Karen placed a hand to her mouth as she thought about the possibility. “I’ll fetch Grayson. We’ll do it together, as a family.”

“What about Bradley, does he know?” Karen gave her eldest daughter a watery glance.

“Oh yes, you can’t keep secrets about his health. He has always been part of the conversations with the doctors. He knows everything.”

Fleur turned sharply at the comment, “He knew! But he never said anything when I was talking to him earlier.”

“He wouldn’t, Fleur. He loves you and wouldn’t want you to be upset.” A sob escaped both women as they realised how true that statement was and how unselfish the young man was being.

Karen stood up and smiled at her daughter, “I’ll fetch our family.”

~ ~ ~

Jojo watched the party from the fringes. It was now in full swing and all she wanted to do was go home, take a shower, have a nap and after that take the next plane to New York. As her eyes scanned the revellers, she realised that her heart definitely wasn’t in this room and probably with this kind of function never would be again. If she told herself enough times that people didn’t change that much, she might believe it. However, she’d changed in a big way and she owed it all to her best friend. Sometimes she just wished she could tell Fleur exactly what she meant to her, but every time she thought about it and attempted to strike up that type of conversation, something else would happen and table it for another time. How many more other times would there be to have a serious personal conversation with Fleur? She had the feeling her friend thought she was less than committed in their friendship, but that wasn’t the case, far from it. Ironically enough, she didn’t have the words.

“You look bored, Jojo, want me to cheer you up?” Tandy Radnor grinned wildly at the singer, had she been drinking? This was all she needed...a tipsy youngster to look out for. What was Jack thinking!

“I’m tired, it’s been a long day. We older women like our rest.” Jojo extracted her arm from the enthusiastic grip of the girl.

“Oh, come on, Jojo, no way could anyone say you were old. You’ve been keeping company with the wrong types...take that manager of yours, she’s no fun. Anyone ever tell her she could smile once in a while?”

Bristling at the suggestion that Fleur wasn’t any fun, she turned an icicle glance towards the young woman. “You don’t know Fleur or you wouldn’t say that.”

The girl grinned wickedly as she winked at the singer, “You can keep her, and I’d rather get to know you, how about it?”

Jojo could only roll her eyes at the suggestion. It was comical if you looked at the state of the child. She was just that...a child...and this child had a way to go to grow up. It would hopefully happen without some of the breaks that Jojo had contended with along her journey of discovery, “Jack!” She shouted as the record producer shot past her.

The man turned suddenly and grinned happily at her and why not, he was reaping the rewards of the talent of the two singers he’d had the foresight to sign to his record label. Good fortune came to those that waited and he’d been waiting patiently for a few years now. If only they had both come along together before he’d signed part of the company over to a large corporation. Fortunately for him, they didn’t interfere...too much. “Great party, Jo, aren’t you glad you came?”

“Hmm, let me take a rain check on that question. Who’s plying Tandy here with booze?”

Jack gave the older singer a sheepish glance and then turned his eyes to the younger woman draped over Jo. Well, she was a good-looking woman, they both were. It would be an interesting match he thought then turned his attention back to the singer who was giving him an icy stare. “Sorry, Jo, private party and I can’t keep up with what the youngster does every second. Let me get Steve, he’s supposed to be her escort today.” Leaving the singer to hold onto the drunken child, she suddenly felt hot wet lips travel down her neck, geesh what next!

Next came the glare of a flash from a photographer as Tandy kissed Jojo passionately on the lips just as the photograph was taken. “What the...”

Prizing herself from the hold of the young woman, she forcibly took her over to Steve who was looking perplexed as he was dumped with a scowling, whiny, drunken tantrum induced singing star. Jojo waved her arm in the air and left the room much to the astonishment and cries from Jack asking her not to leave.

Sighing deeply, she leaned against the wall outside the building where the party was taking place. She needed to talk with Fleur before that picture made any of the tabloids. All she had wanted was to go home and leave as soon as possible to see her friend and what had she encountered, more trouble. What had she ever done to have to constantly apologise for everything in life?

Making for the sidewalk, she pulled over a taxi and left for home...or at least as close to home as she could get until she was near Fleur. Hopefully her friend was having a better time.

~ ~ ~

The flight had been uneventful and quiet, very quiet. She’d taken the opportunity of taking an early morning flight, two a.m., which was early even for her. No one else was in first class and had taken advantage of the two-hour flight to relax and nap. The stewardess fortunately looked as tired as she felt and other than breakfast that she actually enjoyed, didn’t bother her for anything. The breakfast had been her first proper meal for a couple of days. The excitement building up inside her towards the award ceremony and she had to admit, the anticipation of seeing Fleur again had diminished dramatically for her demand for food. Now she felt like eating and the food wasn’t bad...for in-flight stuff.

Now sitting in a taxi travelling the partially empty streets of New York, she smiled. Her hometown was never empty. It teemed with all kinds of people at all hours of the day or night. Even the horrific events of September 11th would never dampen the spirits of the true New Yorker. From the lowly bag lady, irrepressible con-men, high powered stock brokers and the essence of the New York family, they would continue to strive for that which they had been brought up to believe. Freedom and the opportunity to be whatever they wanted to be and live peacefully beside their fellow man or woman in a country they loved and called home.

“Hey, lady, mind me saying you look familiar?” the cab driver’s eyes watching her from his rear view mirror held a quizzical expression. His features blurred by day old stubble, not surprising if he’d been working all night.

“Doubt it, unless you live in the neighbourhood we’re going to.” Jojo wondered if he had seen her on TV. It was possible since she was quite well known in the country music scene. It had been a while since she’d played New York though and had it pencilled in for the summer in the park.

“Nope, I’m from the other side, you must look like one of those actress’ or something.” He muttered and turned his attention back to the road. It was a clear morning and as they gathered speed after stopping at a set of lights, Jojo could see the early risers making their way to the sub-way. A glance at her watch told her it was close to five a.m., her dad would be going along to the bakery about now. She’d catch up with him later. Maybe take Fleur for brunch across the street from where her Dad and Mom worked.

“Maybe.” Jojo spoke softly and turned her attention to the streets flashing by as they neared her family home.

Ten minutes later she was standing on the steps of the apartment block where she had been brought up. Other than different drapes at the windows, the place looked the same as it had when she’d left over fifteen years ago and probably not much more changed since she had been a child. Her eyes scanned the deserted street as memories of days playing ball games, regardless of the traffic, and other such kids games that had made growing up fun in such an urban area. They’d been happy times though. For a few moments she could hear the laughter and see the scene, smell the fresh bread baking and remembered old Mrs. Spencer who played the damn piano so loud and off key you could hear it no matter where you were in the street. Her mind vividly recalled Gary Thomas, her first boyfriend and the first to kiss her. They’d been six at the time and that evening the boy had lost his tooth and vowed never to kiss a girl again. He hadn’t, not her anyway. Wonder if he ever had! Something she wasn’t likely to find out since the Thomas’ had left the street for Texas when Gary was ten.

“Jojo, how good to see you. Your parents never said you were coming home.” Mrs. Riker, the apartment gossip though not maliciously and local post person hugged her in a warm welcome then smiled warmly and waved goodbye on her way to work.

Jojo grinned at the familiarity. It was so like the neighbourhood she remembered. Maybe things hadn’t changed that much, obviously she had over time. With the smile still stretched across her lips, she buzzed her parent’s apartment. One thing she knew for sure at this time in the morning was that both her parents would be up and about. Her dad was probably even out of the house. They’d been early birds all her thirty-eight years and she didn’t imagine they would have changed any. Although retirement must be winging it’s way to them sometime soon, which would be a momentous event in itself. There didn’t seem to be anyone to take over Dad’s bakery and Mom’s seamstress business, not like in the old days when kids followed in their parent’s footsteps. Guess things do change after all.

“Hello?” Jojo’s eyes crinkled gently as she heard her mother’s voice. It felt good to be here these days. She missed family more and more each time she left, guess she was getting old and needed to settle down...maybe.

“Hi, Mom, it’s me,” a shriek had Jojo taking a step away from the intercom, a grin plastered on her face as the door opened and she stepped inside the hallway. Within a couple of minutes, she was being hugged and kissed by her mother who was delighted to see her yet admonished her for not telling them she was coming so they could have met her at the airport.

“Low-key, Mom, you know I like it that way. Anyway, Dad needs his sleep, he has to get up early the regulars would never forgive him for having their orders late. Whatever would they do without his fresh bagels and rolls for breakfast.” Jojo was finally allowed a little air as her mother held her away from her for the usual scrutiny.

“You look haggard, Joanna, what have you been doing to yourself? I told Fleur that you would end up looking terrible without her.” Her mother clucked over her appearance, it was after all very early and she had been up all night.

“How is Fleur?” Jojo was unable to stop herself from asking about her friend. She was anxious to hear, from someone other than the woman herself that she was back to normal or as normal as one could be after such a traumatic event.

“In herself, she’s healthy.” The words had a dull edge to them and immediately Jojo felt the nerves tighten in her stomach. Something was wrong; she knew it. That was probably why her gut insisted she get back to see her friend.

“What do you mean, Mom, is something wrong? Fleur hasn’t mentioned anything, and we talk everyday!” The normally gentle expression in her mother’s eyes was replaced by a worried look tinged with heavy sadness.

“Yes, but I think Fleur needs to tell you herself. It wouldn’t be right coming from me.” A strange feeling overcame Jojo at the words. They could mean anything, anything at all. She needed to go now and see Fleur. The sooner she found out what the problem was, the sooner she could solve it. She had to solve it! She was nothing without Fleur in her life; she realised that now. The feeling had been there all along, but now she knew it for what it was...she loved Fleur with all her heart and soul.

“Mom, I have to see her, now!”

The older woman placed a gentle restraining hand on her daughter’s arm as she tried to leave the room. “Fleur wouldn’t thank you for rushing over there looking like you do, Joanna. Take a shower, have something to eat with me, at least a coffee then you can go straight over afterwards, please, Joanna?” The gentle persuasion in her mother’s voice was her undoing she knew she was right and Fleur would only be more worried if she looked haggard.

“Nothing to eat for me, Mom. I’ll take that coffee though after my shower.” Jojo picked up her discarded bags and walked towards her old bedroom. At least that had never changed. As she opened the door, it felt just as it had when she’d left years earlier...home, but only if Fleur was going to be part of her life. She refused to think that her friend wouldn’t be, life couldn’t be that cruel to her, could it?

~ ~ ~

Fleur hung her head as she looked at the bills amassed on her desk. She’d said she would take care of them for her mother, it was the least she could do under the circumstances. They had taken Bradley over to the hospital for a couple of tests for the European expert, Doctor Gruber, who had insisted they ship them immediately to him. The initial discussion with the doctor had been cautiously optimistic. If for nothing more, the man had agreed to look over the case again, a fragment of hope in what had become a hopeless situation. The next priority would be finding the funds to pay for Bradley, her Mom and Grayson to travel with him to Switzerland. They would know by the end of the week if the doctor might be able to help. Even if they decided selling the hotel, which was the only thing left to do, a buyer wouldn’t be found in a matter of days and the bank wasn’t going to stump up any more money. Even the family’s comfortable apartment home away from the hotel was mortgaged to the hilt, no collateral there. That left her few thousand, which she had pledged to her mother who had protested vigorously, but Fleur had held her ground. What was money if you couldn’t spend it on someone you loved? Her mind grinding the numbers in her head failed to hear the dulled conversation outside her door. Picking up the tone she was sure it was familiar, but it couldn’t be, Joanna wasn’t due until tomorrow. Standing up quickly, she opened her door and felt the swell of her heart when she saw the dear, dark head of the woman she loved having a discussion with the receptionist who was looking flustered.

“Are you okay, Sybil?” Fleur’s voice raised a fraction to be heard over the other two people talking. Her eyes were immediately captured by the singer’s who appeared to her to look inside her soul in search of the answer to a question.

“Oh, Fleur. Look, it’s Ms. Lackerly and she...well, she hasn’t a room and we’re booked up and...” Sybil held her hands up at the situation. Why hadn’t someone told her that they had a famous guest due?

“Hi.” Fleur smiled warmly at her friend who had initially gazed at her anxiously, but upon meeting her eyes the expression slightly cleared. The lop sided gentle smile that Joanna always reserved for her appeared and the very presence of the singer made all her worries disappear into the background. Everything was going to be okay, Joanna would see to it...she always did.

“Hi yourself, want to catch up?” Both women’s eyes captured the other and silent messages of 'I’m pleased to see you' passed between them as the receptionist watched fascinated. Did they know each other?

A clearing of the throat to tell the two women she was still there drew Fleur’s attention back to the receptionist. “Don’t worry, Sybil, Joanna’s a friend she doesn’t need a room.” She walked towards the singer until they were inches away from each other. The separation and the events of the previous days then took their toll and they tightly hugged each other both whispering they were glad they were here.

Several seconds later they disengaged and Jojo held the smaller woman away from her doing the same as her mother had done previously. “You look like I do.” Grinning to ease the potentially harsh words.

“Really, well, you look great...a sight for sore eyes. I’ve missed you, Joanna, how I’ve missed you.”

Jojo watched the tear trickle down her friend’s cheek and knew there was more to this than just missing being with her, though she felt the same. Tracing the moisture, she smiled tenderly, “Shall we go someplace and talk?”

“You read my mind.” Fleur gulped back the soft sob and gave her friend a tear drenched glance, “Are you hungry?”

“Not much, although I’ll watch you eat if you want something.” Winking as she placed a gentle hand to the flat stomach of her friend knowing the bottomless pit probably needed to be fed.

Wanting desperately to say that the only thing she wanted was right here with her; she decided that it wasn’t the time. Other things were more important than her selfish desires.

“Okay. Any preference?”

“Manny’s, opposite my Dad’s place, okay with you?” Fleur gave her a bright smile mouthing ‘perfect’. She advised Sybil she could be reached on her cell if something urgent came up after retrieving her purse.

Half an hour later they were drinking coffee and tea while Fleur demolished the remains of her breakfast, having told Joanna the situation with her brother and what it might mean. The singer had listened and although it was a sad state of affairs, she couldn’t help herself not be elated that Fleur was okay and it was just a question of money.

Sipping her coffee and enjoying the feeling of being back in the company of her friend, her mind racing at what she could do to help. “How much money do your parents need, Fleur?”

Startled at the question, Fleur gave her a long look, “You can’t do anything, Joanna, and my parents wouldn’t accept your charity!”

Pulling a face at the comment, “Why not? Isn’t my money as good as any damn bank? At least mine doesn’t have strings attached. Fleur, it’s the most sensible solution and they wouldn’t have to sell the hotel or their apartment.”

Fleur closed her eyes at the generous nature of her friend. She’d always known that Joanna had a vein of solid gold running through her that was hidden to most, but when she showed it, it blinded you with its brilliance. “They will feel terrible for taking your money. What if they can’t pay you back?”

Taking the smaller hand that was wringing a napkin to smithereens Jojo replied, “Fleur, wouldn’t they rather have my ‘charity’, as you call it, than have Bradley know that they have lost everything for him? He still might die.” There, it was said and in the open. Fleur had avoided directly admitting that Bradley would die if something wasn’t done and even if it was, he still might.

The tears now cascaded down the blonde’s face as she stared at her friend. The pain and terror as the thought permeated her conscious tore into Jojo’s heart and she felt her own tears welling up to the surface. The kid didn’t deserve this and if she could do something to help, she would. All it would mean to her was another hit song, especially if Tandy sang it. What was money if you couldn’t spread it about and make the people you loved happy? That’s all this was, she loved Fleur and she wanted her to be happy, simple really.

“I don’t need the money, Fleur, and if I did, I’d have Tandy sing another of my songs. The kid can do no wrong at the moment in the charts.” At the mention of the younger singer’s name, Fleur looked up and gave Joanna a watery smile reminding her of the conversation she’d had with Bradley.

“Bradley would love to meet her, Joanna.”

“A piece of cake for us I should think.” Jojo smiled warmly at her friend as her fingers intertwined with the smaller ones.

“For you maybe, Tandy thinks you’re wonderful.” Fleur replied with a small smile of her own. Joanna was making things so easy and she loved her even more for that.

“Ah, but do you think I am?” Jojo held her breath as she captured Fleur’s eyes. The blonde startled at the question, but the expression she returned gave Jojo her answer. “Good. Now call your parents and let’s get this show on the road because tonight we have an even harder family situation to attend.” She announced trying to make light of the very serious situation for a few moments to allow them both to relax.

“We do, what? Your family is wonderful as are mine.”

Standing up Jojo pulled the blonde closer and whispered in her ear as she left her friend to pay the bill. “Grandmother.”

Fleur could do nothing but grin at the word, Joanna’s Grandmother was a pussycat whatever did she mean. Her heart was still heavy, although not as leaden as it had been, just as she always found it when Joanna was close by, her improbable protector!

~ ~ ~

Rain had a depressing effect on most people, her included; as Fleur listened to her Mother list all the reasons why Joanna couldn’t help them financially. The stupid thing was she knew it would happen too. The very mention of the word ‘charity’ had that effect. Though her friend was trying her best to persuade her mother otherwise. Then Fleur turned as she heard the next words...

“Okay, have it your way. I’ll draw up the papers with my lawyer now and I’ll buy the hotel from you. Simple as that, what’s it worth?” Joanna began dialling a number from the hotel office phone.

All eyes stared at the singer in shock. What would Joanna do with the place? No way was the singer interested in that kind of business.

“Joanna, I don’t think you understand...” Fleur walked over to her friend and placed a hand out to stop the call being made.

Jojo stared back at her friend and saw the worry held in the expressive eyes. She looked so cute when she was worried. Wonder if anyone has ever told her that. With a small smile she continued to dial the number then placed the receiver to her ear waiting for a response.

“Jerry Champion, please. Tell him Jojo Lackerly needs to speak with him urgently.”

Karen looked at her husband. What did they say now? This was her original argument, that she would rather sell the hotel than allow anyone to offer them charity out of pity. “Fleur, Joanna doesn’t understand we have a heavy mortgage on the hotel. It will drain her resources. She doesn’t have a bottomless pit, does she?”

Looking bemused and unable to quite get her mind around the events that were playing out around her, she looked at Joanna then back to her family. The concentrated expression on her friend’s face meant one thing and one thing only she was determined to solve the situation one...way or another.

“Hi, Jerry, yep I’m well and you? Yeah, it was a good show. Jack was pleased with the result. Sure, I’ll do that. Look, Jerry, I’m considering buying a hotel; I need you to run the papers through as in double quick. I want a contract to sign in New York with the owners by Friday latest. Do the searches after the event. Yes, I know the pitfalls. It’s urgent or I wouldn’t ask you to do this.” An amused chuckle reverberated around the silent room as the singer laughed at a comment from her lawyer. “I’ll write in the contract the value when it gets here. Let me put you on to the owner and she will give you the details. Talk to you later, Jerry. Have a great day.” Jojo looked seriously at Karen and held out the receiver.

“It’s up to you, Karen. You can do it this way or my way. At the end of the day, it’s your call.” The singer’s expression never wavered as she gave the older woman the chance to change her mind.

Breathing in deeply, Karen gave her family one last look and made her decision...

~ ~ ~

Joanna’s grandmother’s house, an old colonial two-story style building, was beautifully maintained. The wood looked as good as the day it was first erected. Obviously the place was treated with great respect and love. Whenever Fleur entered the house, she felt that the inside reflected the out. The furnishings had been chosen carefully to compliment the polished wooden floors and immaculately preserved oak panelling in various rooms. It was a wonderful home and like one she hoped one day to discover and own. Though a place like this would cost a fortune in this area just outside of New York City.

“Fleur, Gran tells me you’ve been over to see her every week since you’ve been in New York, you never told me.” Jojo shouted from the kitchen where she was helping her grandmother make a few sandwiches. Neither one of them had eaten much that day since there were too many other things to arrange.

Walking to the open doorway of the room, Fleur grinned as she saw the two of them together. They did look alike except that her friend had a much darker complexion, her Greek heritage probably. “Ah, yes, but do I need your permission to see a lovely woman?” Realising what she said, her cheeks grew red from embarrassment. The singer gave her a thoughtful and appraising stare.

“No...I think your taste is perfect.” Jojo replied softly kissing her Gran, who was tutting at the conversation, on the cheek.

“What have you two been up to today, you both look exhausted?” With twinkling eyes and a peculiar smile settled on her lips, the older woman studied them both.

Much to her grandmother’s irritation, Jojo picked up a slice of cucumber from the dish and popped it into her mouth while given a severe stare for her actions. “We’ve been arranging for Fleur’s family to fly to Switzerland, they leave tomorrow morning. Brad’s going to see an expert there.”

The old woman smiled warmly at the words, “Now that’s good news for a change. I thought there was nothing to be done, Fleur?”

Fleur walked into the room to stand next to the other two women as she looked at the delicious assortment of sandwiches. Her stomach was growling aggressively at the mouth-watering display, only thing was she didn’t have Joanna’s nerve to take one from the plate. “Last week there didn’t appear to be any,” she replied turning to smile tenderly at her friend who returned the smile with a wink. “Now there is or at least we hope there is. Mom, Grayson and Bradley are off tomorrow to make it happen.”

The hope those few words brought to the conversation made all three women silently pray that miracles might happen. “Did she find a buyer so soon for the hotel?”

Jojo and Fleur both giggled and the older woman gave them an interested glance, “Care to share what has suddenly amused you both? The sandwiches are ready, now let’s take them into the parlour and we can talk there.

Ten minutes later they were munching on sandwiches with Jojo’s usual gulping of her coffee far too fast. Fleur and the older woman, both speculating on how long it would be before the singer burnt her mouth at the speed, enjoyed their fragrant tea blend.

“You didn’t, Joanna?” The older woman exclaimed as Fleur giggled once more and almost choking on a sandwich. Her friend looked embarrassed after her explanation of what happened next when Karen was put on the spot to make a decision.

“She did too. I now think my mother understands the powers that your granddaughter holds over us women.” Fleur grinned as she bit into another marvellous sandwich. Her eyes shyly tracked to her friend’s whose expression in the depths of her blue ones was unfathomable.

“Karen understands that my proposal was an act of a friend, a good friend, not pity or charity. I made a deal with her...she’s going to pay me back over time. I agreed to allow her to pay me interest on the outstanding balance if the debt, as she calls it, wasn’t paid in ten years. That was much simpler than buying out her hotel. Why she couldn’t say that initially dumbfounds me, but then, I’m only a dumb country singer, what do I know?” All three women laughed at the remark. Joanna Lackerly was far too intelligent in lots of ways to be called dumb and anyone who did think that was in for a shock, a big shock!

“Thank you, Joanna.” Fleur gave her friend a look that she hoped conveyed all she felt and more. She owed this woman so much more there could never be enough money in the world to compensate the singer for what she meant in her life or all she had done to help her and now her family.

Jojo felt a jolt as if a red-hot poker had touched her heart when she looked into the eyes of the woman who meant the world to her. It was so easy to do things for her and not want anything in return...except just to have her as a friend for the rest of their lives.

“Your welcome and I should be thanking you.” The mutual thanks transmitted across the table and Joanna’s grandmother wasn’t blind, she’d seen that look before. She’d been in love once, a long time ago admittedly, but you never forget the feeling if it’s the love of your life, what a pity they were two women. Still, women could be very good friends and love each other without the romantic side, it had been happening for centuries.

“Now that you two have had your mutual appreciation moment, when are you coming to stay with me, Joanna? Your parents can’t hog all your time I want to see you as well.”

“Gran! Why not come over Sunday for dinner? You know Mom will be thrilled and all the family will be there. Come on, Gran, life is too short, will you bury the hatchet with Dad, please?” Jojo pleaded, she really wanted that. It hurt her to think that the years were passing and nothing had been resolved on this issue and it was so stupid.

“I will not, Joanna, and that is my final word on the matter.” The old woman snorted at the suggestion. The young never knew when to keep out of private business, but this was her favourite grandchild. She had never been slow in coming forward and probably would continue to ask the question every time they saw each other.

“Fine, I was only asking.” Jojo hung her head a little at the caustic rejoinder. Old folks were hard nuts to crack; her Gran must be the hardest one she had ever come across.

For the next two hours they talked about the concert tour, the award ceremony and general things until both the younger women yawned and were told to go home to bed. As they departed, the old woman hugged them both wishing them a safe journey back to the city.

As Fleur drove back into the city, Jojo watched the buildings flash by. She had never felt so relaxed as she did at that moment. It was easy to be in Fleur’s company and neither of them felt like they needed to speak.

As they neared home, Jojo had her eyes closed. Without looking at Fleur she spoke quietly, making her friend jump slightly in her seat. “I’ve missed you, Fleur.”

Smiling at the remark, the blonde replied gently, “I’ve missed you too, more than you will ever know.”

Still with her eyes closed she continued to speak. “I was wondering...after your family leaves,  could we have some time alone and talk about stuff.”

Puzzled at the comment, Fleur turned to the singer as they stopped at a red light. “We can talk anytime, Joanna, you know that. I thought we did.”

Sitting up straight from her slouched position in the car she smiled slightly. “We do...I guess what I want to say is we need a serious talk...privately. No interruptions from the family, phone, crisis or an earthquake even!”

Laughing at the earthquake comment, Fleur realised what Joanna meant. Though she had known they needed to do this and she desperately wanted it to happen, she was afraid too. Things could change dramatically if they had an in-depth heart to heart and she wondered if the singer was ready for it, better yet was she?

“Mom asked me to close the hotel over the weekend so the decorators can spruce up the rooms for next week. She had been working on the closure with the regulars for months now. It means that except for the odd hour or two to check up on them, Sybil can handle the place. We can be alone and talk in my rooms or go someplace else, your call.”

“I don’t want to sound ungrateful, but can we take a trip, I’ve never been to Canada. I hear there are a few parks there. We could hire a cabin for a few days, have a holiday, would Sybil cope with that?” Joanna waited with bated breath. It was her way of making sure they had as un-interrupted a time as possible. The outcome was incredibly important so the place had to be just right...no second chances, she felt, on this one.

“Well, sure I think she can. You arrange it and I’ll let her know. Mom’s chosen all the colour schemes and such, there isn’t really anything for her to do, but recommend other hotels if calls come in.”

“I understand why she’s doing that, but isn’t it rather drastic if she needs the money?”

Turning into the street that housed Joanna’s family home she smiled, “Yeah, it does sound strange, however the guests would probably hate the smell of fresh paint, so it all works out. It’s the slowest time of the year, if there ever is one in New York.” Stopping the car outside the sidewalk.

“Right, I’ll arrange everything and I’ll be in the lobby at nine sharp to see your family off. Goodnight, Fleur.”

With a happy smile Fleur turned just as Joanna leant over to kiss her cheek and their lips met. The pressure and sensual bomb that amplified every nerve in her body couldn’t be explained. As their lips held each other’s and before she knew what was happening, Joanna had her arms around her shoulders dragging her closer. The pressure of Joanna’s mouth seeking an opening to hers and allowing their tongues to become better acquainted was all Fleur wished it could be and more. All she could hear was her soft moan as she relished the touch, a touch she thought would never happen. Then the pressure was lost as Joanna gave a muffled exclamation close to her lips.

“My God, Fleur I’m so sorry!” Jojo struggled with the euphoric feeling. She had been kissing Fleur, the guilt she suddenly felt separating them.

Fleur stared at her friend. This was...was brilliant, a miracle! Everything she could ever have hoped to happen and all Joanna wanted to do was apologise, which was ridiculous. Unable to stop, the thought made her chuckle softly.

Jojo fought her senses while trying to understand why Fleur was laughing, was it at her? My God, she’d really blown it hadn’t she, what did she say now. Her mind grappled with her feelings of wanting to make sense to her friend, “I’m sorry, Fleur,” Jojo opened the door of the vehicle and tried to hastily leave the car.

A smaller hand held her arm firm as the singer tried to flee the vehicle, “Not so fast, Joanna.” Fleur smirked. She couldn’t help it. For once she felt like she had all the power here and she did have all the power if the look on the singer’s face was anything to go by.

“What?” Jojo barked out harshly. This was totally alien territory. She needed to regroup and clear her mind to find a suitable explanation for her behaviour.

“Not exactly the tone I expected after that wonderful romantic interlude,” Fleur knew she shouldn’t, but she couldn’t help but tease her friend who looked remarkably uncomfortable. Finally taking pity on her, Fleur leaned across and kissed the woman she loved. A startled expression on her friend’s face appeared replacing the guilty one then a look of awe beamed out at her.

“We’ll talk tomorrow, Joanna, goodnight. Oh and I think we can share a room wherever you plan to take me, love you.” She remarked allowing her hand to slide away in a caressing motion over Joanna’s forearm. If it wasn’t for the car door, she was sure her friend would have collapsed in a heap on the floor from her remark.

Gliding out of the stationary car, Jojo stood on the sidewalk watching her friend wave as she pulled away. Certain her mouth was open in shock, Jojo placed her fingers over her lips and as she did, the memory of their shared kisses brought a glow inside her that she had never felt before, ever! Was this what everyone called true love? Turning to enter the apartment building, she arrived at the door of her family's apartment. Her mind and body floating with the feelings that coursed through her. All she wanted to do was stay awake and shout from the rooftops that she was in love with Fleur Danvers. Most important of all Fleur loved her...she said so!

Opening the door, she walked inside or should that be glided inside. Her parents would be in bed, it was after ten and they went to work early. She knew sleep wasn’t an option for her body was on fire, very similar to the adrenaline rush she had after a performance. Maybe if she waited another ten minutes she could call Fleur to make sure it wasn’t all in her imagination. Yeah, she could do that she could...she would.

Opening the refrigerator, she extracted a cold beer and removing the top drank heavily from the bottle. No time for niceties except Fleur...yeah Fleur. The name alone evoked all manner of emotions within and what had she said...they could share a room. Did it mean what she thought it meant? Wow!

Leaning against the breakfast bar her minding doing loops in all kinds of ways, she smiled. As she did, the giddiness within her bubbled up and grew with such intensity that made her smile even more. She was kinda glad that no one else was up because she probably had a goofy look on her face. God this was stupid. She wasn’t a teenager, she was a grown woman with too many relationships behind her to ever think love would be part of her life yet, here she was, totally besotted and absolutely, irrevocably in love with...Fleur. Yep, that name again and if she said the name a thousand times, no a million, it wouldn’t be enough...it would never be enough.

Throwing the empty bottle in the recycle bin she looked at her watch, ten minutes, Fleur would be back in the hotel now. Taking another cold beer, she went to her room, sat down on the bed and dialled the hotel direct line to Fleur’s rooms. Several ring tones later the phone was answered by the night porter.

“Is Ms. Danvers available, please?”

“Who’s calling?”

“A friend,” She wasn’t happy about giving out her name, but realised that the night porter was only doing his job. “Joanna Lackerly.”

“Thank you, Ms. Lackerly, Ms. Danvers is with her mother at the moment. You want me to have her call you back?” For a few moments Jojo wanted that desperately, but decided against it. Tonight was important for her family. There was a lot at stake and she knew her friend would worry all the time they would be out of the country.

“No, no, that’s okay, I’ll catch her tomorrow. Goodnight.” She answered replacing the receiver. Jojo knew the most important thing, Fleur had arrived home safely and tomorrow they would embark on another journey together, together being the operative word.

She picked up her guitar, which at home she often left on her bed knowing it was safe there, no one to touch it and gently strummed a few notes. Before she knew it and while quietly humming a rhythm then adding a few words, she was writing a song...a song for Fleur.

~ ~ ~

Shirley Appleby watched her boss pace in his office. She could see his tall gait indistinctly through the frosted glass. Any minute he’d be asking her to do something on his behalf; yep...here it comes.

The door to Jack Wicklow’s office opened and out stepped the man, a frown on his face as he homed in on his PA. “Shirl, the press blurb that came through yesterday, don’t send it to Jojo or Fleur...especially Fleur. I’ll deal with it when they come back to Nashville.”

Looking at the man in consternation, oops, she’d already done it in last evening’s mail run. “Jack...I already sent it out last night. Thought you’d want that, the review was fantastic.”

The man gave her a long stare. Yeah, the blurb was worth a million dollars in advertising, but the picture...the picture might prove to be a problem for someone and that someone was the heart of the current success of the company, even if he wasn’t going to admit as much to the woman. “Can we retrieve them?”

“Sorry, boss, they were sent by courier, probably already there by now. Want me to call them and find out?”

“God no! Let’s see if we have any fall out, shall we. I’ll have a brandy with my coffee.” The man walked away shutting the door behind him with a thud.

Shirley wondered about the brandy; it was after all only eight in the morning, maybe he has a toothache. Her hand strayed to the folder on her desk. She had been ready to file it but now took a second glance. The blurb was excellent and expected greater things from the two women who had performed a duet. Although praising Tandy because she won the awards technically, Jojo had been mentioned and it was clear the critic wanted to hear more from her on both the song writing and singing front. Then her eyes strayed to the photos, several of Tandy and the awards. A couple of others of the singers together singing and as she flicked over the ones left, she didn’t see anything odd until she saw the one that Jack was obviously worried about. She’d missed that one last night when she’d sent off the packs to the two women. There, in a tight clinch passionate kiss were unmistakably the two singers and from this angle, both appeared to be indulging in the kiss for all it was worth. Closing her eyes for a fraction of second she realised what Jack was worried about. Not that the two would be labelled as lesbians, nope, it was Fleur’s reaction to Jojo in such a clinch. He was right to be worried, so was she now.

~ ~ ~

“Everything’s going to be ok, Mom, trust me.” Fleur wiped her own tears away as she gave her mother a loving hug after having gone over the plans for the hotel in the next couple of weeks.

“I know, darling, I know, but...I guess I’m worried about every little thing at the moment. You’re going to be here on your own and...”

“Not alone, Mom.” A tender smile crossed her lips as she thought of Jojo who had apologised for not seeing Fleur’s family off this morning. She had to take her own Mother to see her grandmother who had fallen in the yard earlier that morning.

A quizzical expression countered the worried one Karen Adams had portrayed seconds before. “Oh yes, should there be something you’re not telling me?”

Laughing at the unusual expression, she gave her mother a wink and wicked grin, “Oh yeah, absolutely! I’ll tell you what, when you get back I might have wonderful news.”

“Really, why not tell me now?” Karen persisted once she saw the warm glow that her daughter emitted. Something she had missed because she’d been too involved in her own sadness over Bradley.

“Because it hasn’t happened yet.” The door opened to the room and Grayson came forward with a smile.

“The taxi is here, Karen, time to go. You take care, Fleur, and we’ll call you when we land in Switzerland.”

“You’d better!” Fleur kissed the man and gave him a reassuring glance. He was a pillar of strength, but sometimes pillar’s themselves needed someone to lean on.

“Take care, Fleur.” Grayson took Karen’s arm and led her gently away. As they were about to shut the door, Fleur called to them softly.

“He’s going to be well, I know it.” The couple turned back and gave her a smile nodding their heads in agreement as they left. Bradley was already in the taxi. He and Fleur had said their farewells at breakfast and didn’t want the tears or the fuss and she understood that. Ribbing him gently that boys don’t cry, he’d smiled at her then admitted sometimes they did.

She watched the taxi leave the driveway heading on the journey that would confirm one way or the other if Bradley would live beyond the limited time the doctors here suggested. Her mind then turned to Joanna. Fortunately, the indications were that her grandmother was severely shaken, but hadn’t broken anything. They were going to check up and see for themselves, even if the stubborn old woman didn’t want them to attend to her. A lot of Joanna’s traits she’d noticed in her grandmother and it wasn’t a surprise that they actually got on so well. They were both so sure of what they wanted and how to go about it...that was until last night. A warm sensual feeling began flooding her body at the kisses she’d enjoyed in her friend’s arms. So much so that she had to shake her head of the increasingly salacious thoughts or she would be unable to work today.

Walking towards her desk she flipped through her mail and picked up the envelope that had arrived by courier from Trigon Records. Great, the review of the awards ceremony, she and Joanna had talked briefly about the event, but hadn’t gone in depth. She expected that they would when they went away for a few days. At least she could have a heads up on what the critics thought. She knew her friend wouldn’t tell her much in that department; she was very un-conceited in that area. Not like some she had come across, Tandy being one of them, so full of themselves and their talent.

Picking up the envelope, she ripped open the strip and photos and a blurb landed on the desk. She picked up the blurb and glanced down at the first photos, they made her smile. She saw Joanna trying desperately not to be bored sitting at the table.  Reading the leaflet she grinned at the praise, especially the part about Joanna’s contribution. The critic must have been taken with her friend, shame she was taken. The glow began again as she drifted into a sensual haze at the mere image of her friend. Her fingers picked up the photos and flicked over them until finding the ones that interested her most; those could only be the ones with Joanna in them. Her eyes caught on one that had been taken with her and the younger singer, presumably during the duet. Joanna was happy you could see it in her expressions as she strummed the guitar. Another when she was singing, when the singer was involved in her music it spoke volumes as nothing else could about the woman and the real love of her life. Hard to compete with she knew, but she wasn’t in there to compete with it, she was there to share it and watch her friend rise to the heady heights of success she deserved. The phone rang as she began to pursue the rest of the photos.

“Hi.” Fleur’s breath caught in her mouth when she heard the voice of the woman, who was constantly on her mind; speak at the other end of the phone.

“Hi, yourself, how’s your Gran?” Her attention was totally on the singer, the photos discarded on her desk forgotten for the moment.

A deep chuckle answered, “You know Gran, she’s fine. A little shaken and Mom actually stood up to her for a change, it was awesome.”

“I bet it was, how are you today?” Fleur asked softly, her voice dropping into a sexy drawl. Not that she knew that, but if she had seen Joanna’s face she might have got a clue.

Jojo gulped at the comment crossing her legs in reaction. She was in real trouble here if a simple enquiry could get her going, “Good, what about you?”

“I’m a little sad that I couldn’t go with the rest of the family, but I have compensations.”

Jojo didn’t mistake the information her friend was conveying, “Can you be ready to leave at lunch?”

She smiled stupidly at the phone cradled close to her cheek. This was ridiculous she felt like a teenager, “Yes, what do I need to pack?”

Jojo really wanted to answer that with as little as possible refraining from making the crass comment. “We’re going to a cabin in the hills. It’s still reasonable weather, but you’ll need a jacket for the evening, do you like hiking?”

“Oh yeah, love it.” Maybe she was being a little too enthusiastic. Hiking wasn’t a pastime she’d ever really indulged in before, however for Joanna, she’d climb Mount Everest if the woman asked her.

“Great, I’ll pick you up at noon, be ready.”

“I’ll be ready, hope you are.” Fleur heard the sexy laughter at the other end. Oh yeah, was she ready!

“See you later, bye, Fleur...oh and I love you.” The phone went dead before Fleur was able to collect her scattered thoughts. All other things became lost in the tornado her mind had churned up at the words.

Joanna loved her!

The door opened and Sybil popped her head around the door, “Have you time to speak with the contractor?”

“Yeah, sure, I’ll be right out.” She responded picking up the discarded photos. She’d look at them later. She slipped them back into the envelope and dropped them into her desk drawer.

~ ~ ~

Their meeting at noon had been an anti-climax to the feeling they had both been experiencing during the morning in anticipation of the trip. As Jojo arrived to collect Fleur, she’d become embroiled in signing autographs for a few of the guys who were working on the renovations in the hotel. Fleur had looked on with a smug expression on her face as she retrieved her belongings for the mini-trip as well as giving Sybil last minute instructions and where she could be reached in a dire emergency.

Jojo finally extricated herself from the enthusiastic contractors giving them a brilliant smile of farewell as she finally climbed into the four-wheel vehicle she’d hired for the trip, and with an apologetic grin to her friend, drove away from the hotel.  For the next hour, while they fought the flow of traffic out of New York, they remained in a companionable silence until Jojo turned to her friend and gave her a warm smile.

“I’m looking forward to this break, Fleur. It seems like ages since we spent any time together alone.”

Fleur’s breath caught in her throat sure that when she replied it would show her hyped up emotions. “I know exactly what you mean. Where exactly are we going?”

Chuckling at the question Jojo winked and wagged her finger, “I thought you deserved a surprise...if you don’t mind?”

Unable to stop the beat of her heart’s increasing tempo, she looked down at her hands clasped together. What she could do with right now was holding onto something and although her wildest dreams would be the singer, the steering wheel right now would help. “Not at all, want me to drive as well?”

Smiling warmly at the offer, Jojo shook her head, “No, you drive me around enough. I thought I’d show you another of my skills, I can drive.”

“Never doubted it, lo...Joanna.” Holding back the need to speak in a more familiar term.

Fleur began to ask about the award ceremony and what had happened. At first Joanna was tentative but then opened up and clearly described the event.

“Tandy must be riding on cloud nine at the moment with all those accolades.” Fleur remarked absently.

For a split second Jojo wondered if her friend knew anything about what had happened at the party afterwards...no way. It hadn’t been in any publication that she’d seen that morning. She had purposely gone to the newsstand and looked over all the music and entertainment press. Anything, in fact, that had any reference to the award ceremony. Frank, who ran the stand, was about to strangle her for messing up his merchandise, but she’d known him all her life. She had bought her first comic from him when she was five years old. Anyway, she’d given him a handsome bonus for the privilege. “Yeah, I guess, didn’t really see much of her afterwards.”

Fleur gave her a long look. There was a tentative tone in the answer, was her friend trying to hide something from her? No, they had gone way past that in their friendship these days. “Didn’t Jack make you stay for the party?” She asked knowing that the producer wouldn’t let the singer off the hook that easily. Appearances were what made an entertainer, even if they were loaded with talent as her friend was.

“You know me and Jack too well. Does he know that you can read his mind? He’d be even more worried when you negotiate on my behalf in the future.” Smiling as she negotiated a steep bend taking them towards the mountain ranges and the cabin she’d arranged for them.

Fleur laughed at the thought though she had to admit Jack was pretty transparent in his dealings with her in regards to the singer. She often wondered if he was like that with everyone. Probably why his business had needed a silent partner with money. “We shall keep that a secret between the two of us I think. Can’t have Jack getting the upper hand, I have your interests to look after remember.”

“Oh, I know that and let me tell you, there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t thank God that you do look after my interests. Thank you, Fleur.”

The words touched her deeply. She stared out at the beautiful scenery while a warm glow made her feel at rest and peaceful with the world. This was going to be a marvellous time and if God really was being good to them, then by the time they left this vacation, who knows, they might be a couple...a romantic couple. She could hope anyway.

Half an hour later they pulled up outside a beautifully restored log cabin. It had a wonderful deck that looked out onto the lake, which was teeming with various bird life and glorious vegetation. “Oh, Joanna, it’s beautiful!” Fleur breathed out her pleasure and opened her door jumping out of the vehicle stumbling, but not enough to fall. Although Jojo did smile indulgently at the younger woman who rushed towards the cabin while she climbed out slowly collecting their possessions and walking towards her friend. This was an excellent start to what she hoped would be the start of a wonderful new phase of their partnership in what she hoped would be the rest of their lives.

“You like it?” the grin was tolerant, as one would be with a child. The smaller woman’s reaction reminded her of a child. Jojo’s eyes glowed in pleasure then she was suddenly engulfed in a suffocating hug that gave her the answer she wanted.

“I guess you do, I’m glad.” Jojo’s voice was muffed as she drank on the wondrous feeling of having Fleur held tightly in her arms. It was so right, so very right.

“I love you, Joanna. When I think you can’t surprise me anymore, you do just that.” Fleur turned glittering eyes to her friend and was swamped with the emotion that gathered force in her body when their gazes met. Was it getting hotter, because she was...steaming, at least that’s how she felt?

“I love you too, Fleur.” The whispered words floated between them as they continued to gaze deeply into each other’s eyes. There was no doubt that they both felt the same way, but which one had the courage to take it that next steps forward.

Lips hovered a fraction of an inch away from the kiss that they both wanted so badly, but just as they were about to meet, they heard a clearing of a voice from the side of their vehicle.

“Sorry to disturb you, young un’s. I wanted to check that you have everything before I go?” A man of about fifty with a grizzled face covered in a brown beard with streaks of grey running through it asked gruffly.

Jojo all of a sudden became protective of Fleur again. Who was this guy and why was here? “Who are you?”

At the tone, the old man gave a long stare with a piercing gaze taking in her protective stance towards her friend. He pulled at his whiskers for a few seconds before he replied equably. “You Lackerly?”

“Yes!”

“I’m Chandler, this is my cabin, and we talked on the phone.” The man waited for the penny to drop and saw a look of relief pass over her face when she realised who he was.

“Hi, sorry, wasn’t sure if anyone would be here to greet us.” Jojo walked down the steps towards the man her hand held out.

“No problem. I’ve set up the logs for the fire and if you don’t want that, there is the modern heater on the wall.” He said the last scathingly. Obviously he preferred the traditional means of heat.

“Great, thanks.” Jojo smiled at the man then turned back to Fleur who was peering inside the cabin, her eyes like saucers.

“My goodness, Joanna, you should see this place!” Her awe clearly defined in her voice.

Chuckling at her friend, “Looks like you’ve won her over and that’s the main thing.” Jojo turned back to the man who gave her an odd look and then smiled slowly.

“Yep, seems that way. My numbers is on the refrigerator. If you get into any difficulties, I can be here within the hour.” He turned away and left as silently as he arrived.

“Thanks,” the singer replied then moved towards the cabin following Fleur inside and quickly becoming as enchanted as her friend. It had all the traditional adornments, but just as equally the modern conveniences to make it as luxuriously easy a weekend as you wanted it and she wanted that, oh yes she did. There were definitely better things to do with their time, if she was lucky.

“Joanna, we have everything we could possibly want here, it’s marvellous.” Fleur enthused as she opened the fridge. Her eyes goggled at the produce inside including a bottle of champagne chilling alongside several bottles of other wine.

Walking over to the blonde she peered inside and grinned as she thought of sharing the champagne with her friend. Not that she needed the intoxication. Being this close to Fleur was making her feel drunk and she was as sober as hell. Her nose picked up the faint traces of the woman’s perfume as she rested her chin on the smaller woman’s shoulder, “Is it too early to open that, do you think?”

Fleur felt Joanna’s nearness and was sure her friend could feel her heart racing. She must, the singer’s hearing was very sensitive. Turning slightly so they were facing each other, the singer’s face was as close as they had been outside on the deck. Mesmerised once more at their closeness, Fleur decided that this time she really did need that kiss and tentatively placed her lips on those of her friend’s. As she did so, the spark that had always been between them ignited to a flame that seared them together forever!

For the next few minutes they indulged in the wonder of the moment and crazy sensual emotions that whizzed around in both their bodies. Finally Jojo pulled away resting her head on Fleur’s forehead. “I love you, Fleur, I needed you to know that.”

A beautiful smile was initially her answer as they indulged in another long hot passionate kiss, “I love you, Joanna, and I always have. I think from the first moment I saw you.”

Both women had tears in their eyes, not of sorrow but deep joy. They kissed again then decided that they needed to talk. Collecting their belongings, Jojo hesitated when she opened one of the bedroom doors. Should she place them both here or...but decided it was best to have their talk before she took that step, it might be too early.

“I’ll make us a snack, you open the champagne.” Fleur called out loudly when she saw the hesitation then smiling as Joanna placed her things in the room then went to the second bedroom and put her own things inside.

“Great idea, I’m starving.” Jojo grinned. She felt the easy camaraderie they always had no matter the tension between them. Even way back when they had first met, it was uncanny, but wonderful all the same.

Ten minutes later toasting the vacation and eating the snack food Fleur had found, they sat close together on the sofa. Unable to resist the temptation, Jojo placed her arm around the smaller woman’s shoulder and they settled together as close as possible on the sofa. Talking about insignificant things initially, Fleur made the first breakthrough when she whispered that she had loved Joanna for a long time now and that that was the reason she had left Danvers on the bus with her. Jojo smiled tenderly when she heard the confession and wondered how she could have been so blind. But, blind she had been in many ways and had almost made a major mistake.

“Did you love him, Joanna?” Fleur asked having always wanted to know the truth about her friend and Lee Weston. It had niggled away at her for a long time now. Shuffling uncomfortably for a few moments, Jojo settled back and sighed heavily.

“I thought I did, but now I know it couldn’t have been.”

Holding her breath and closing her eyes for a fraction, Fleur asked the only question she could that was important. “Why is that?”

Fleur felt the strong arms tighten around her and a tender kiss on the top of her head, “Because I know what it feels like to love you and believe me, everything and every other emotion pales into insignificance. I now know what love is and I have you to thank for that, Fleur. As God is my witness, I’ll love you for the rest of my life.”

Once again turning to stare at the singer who had opened her heart and laid it bare for her to do with as she chose and knowing the power it gave her. Fleur felt even more humble as she revelled in the emotion of being so important to the singer. This wasn’t going to be a short affair and Joanna would not grow tired of her, this was for keeps. “I’m honoured you feel that way, Joanna, because I don’t know what I’d do without you in my life, I love you so much!”

Tears chose that moment to appear and Jojo took the opportunity to kiss them gently away whispering words of love as she did so. Soon, they were entangled in a passionate embrace that wouldn’t be broken until they had fulfilled each other’s desires to the fullest.

~ ~ ~

“Anyone ever tell you that you are the sexiest woman in the world?”

“Hardly! Joanna, you are something else.” Fleur’s laughter caused a tingling sensation in Jojo’s body as she watched the woman standing watching the birds glide over the lake.

“I’m in love, indulge me.” Placing her longer arms around the smaller woman’s waist and hugging her close. This was like a fantastic dream that you didn’t ever want to end. If they were lucky it wouldn’t, not for them.

“Anytime, love, anytime. What shall we do today?” Fleur looked up and kissed her new lover’s chin.

“Whatever you want, I’m completely at your disposal.”

Turning so that they faced each other, Fleur grinned wolfishly, “Really...completely?”

“Yeah, for the rest of my life if you want.”

The words spoken softly had that tone about them that meant exactly what Joanna was offering her...a total commitment...and she was at a loss for words.

“Too much for you?” Grinning at the startled amazed look in her lover’s eyes.

“I...I...”

Swooping in to take a light passionate kiss, Jojo laughed heartily, “I...want. That’s all you have to say, darling.” Winking wickedly at her friend who went a bright red as she realised how goofy she looked.

“I want you, Joanna Lackerly, forever.” There, she’d said it. They both lost themselves once more in kisses that had them sinking to the ground at the overwhelming sensations it created within them. Another word was insatiable, but who cared.

An hour later, sated for the moment, a larger hand trailed gentle caresses over small perfectly formed breasts partially bared from their previous lovemaking. They enjoyed the sun and tranquillity of the area and the feeling that for the moment the world was made up of just the two of them.

“Do you think it will always be like this?” Fleur asked her voice tremulous. She moved to rest her body invitingly on top of her lover’s relishing the chance to stare, without embarrassment, at the ample breasts of the singer. She recalled doing the same thing back in Danvers a long, long time ago and the same emotions she felt then had now multiplied a thousand fold, but now she knew what it was. Her lips then gave the voluptuous globes her full attention.

A low moan escaped Jojo as she felt the caress and then was lost in the reaction.  Eventually strangling out a reply, “We’ll make it so, Fleur, I promise.”

Unable to leave the delicious breasts that she feasted on, her hand trailed down to the singer’s trousers, which were undone from their previous encounter. Fingers quickly found their mark feeling the soft curls and Fleur revelled in the moans from her love at her touch. Before long, they were lost inside each other, conversation not required on this journey of discovery.

~ ~ ~

Jojo watched Fleur checking everything over for the tenth time before satisfied. Fleur finally looked at her lover and smiled announcing, “All tidy. Just as when we arrived.”

Laughing at the comment, Jojo shook her head at the woman. “Fleur, trust me, no one will care how we leave it. It’s the same as a hotel, you pay your dues and that’s the end of it.”

Scowling at the sentiment, Fleur gave the woman she loved a hard stare. “You forget my first love is the hotel business.”

Unable to stop herself Jojo felt her stomach move in laughter, but tried desperately to stop it. Placing a hand on the blonde’s arm they stared at each other willing the other to give in, neither did. “Did anyone tell you that you were stubborn?”

“Would anyone dare?”

Giggling like a schoolgirl, Jojo gently lifted her lover’s face and snatched a kiss. “Never! I thought maybe I’d replaced your first love.”

Fleur knew she was being teased as she glimpsed the devilment in Joanna’s eyes. How she loved this woman and most importantly, how great it was that they could do this with only the boundaries of love as an obstacle...though love had no boundary, did it. Reaching up to caress the lines around her lover’s face she smiled tenderly, “There is nothing that means as much to me as you do, Joanna. You’re a part of me for the rest of my life and am I glad that you found me.”

For a split second Jojo considered the situation, would she want it any other way? All the freedom and money she ever wanted, any person she wanted too, nothing to stop her. Could she be faithful? Could she be the person that for the last four days had taken over her life? Could she?

“I have only one thing to say love. Please love me no matter what happens because I never want to let you go...ever!”

Fleur smiled and kissed Joanna deeply knowing that this was the real thing, whatever that meant.

“I don’t care what happened before, you’re mine now and I know it.”

Jojo smiled wryly while turning her face away a little hoping that was the truth. It should be. She hadn’t done anything wrong in her life for a long time now, since Fleur had come into her life, her heart and mind for once agreeable.

“I’m glad because I’d die if you ever forgot.”

“Never going to happen, Joanna, never...trust me.” They collapsed into an embrace that made everything pale into comparison. This was the truth; nothing could change that, nothing.

~ ~ ~

The hotel interior looked great and all the regular customers appeared to welcome the facelift of the old building. Strange what a little paint and tender loving care did to a place...a person come to that. She had to admit the time alone with Joanna had not only heightened her senses to the singer whenever she was around, but also made her realise that the love she felt for her could only get better. They’d been in the city for a week and Joanna was being pressed by Jack to travel back to Nashville, he wanted her to cut the duet with Tandy as soon as possible. As usual, her lover had been less than enthusiastic, but after a long discussion, she’d agreed to go back tomorrow insisting she would be back at the weekend.

Fleur had known that was a bravado statement. Once she was back in the studio it would be hard to prize her away and why would she want to, that was Joanna’s passion second to her she hoped, but certainly they held equal footing these days. She recalled the morning events of waking up in the tender embrace of the singer who was wide-awake watching the gentle breeze billow the filmy curtains at the window. Making love was a desire that both had been unable to quench whenever they had the privacy and lying in bed in her private rooms in the hotel served the purpose in many ways. A smirk she was unable to prevent flashed across her face just as the door to the office opened.

“Dare I ask what you were thinking about, Fleur Danvers?” Jojo grinned wickedly seeing the smirk on her lover’s face. She had a good idea why too. It was happening to her too often at the most embarrassing times. Take this morning, when she’d gone to her parent’s apartment and sat with her mother discussing family and friends, the dopiest expression must have come across her face because she then had to explain that ‘Aunt’ Marge’s gall bladder operation wasn’t something to laugh at.

A stunning smile was her reward. Shutting the door behind her she stood on the other side of the tidy desk winking suggestively at the smaller woman who burst out laughing at the action. “You’re bad to the bone, Joanna, have I told you that before?" Fleur stood up and quickly enfolded the taller woman in a loving welcome followed by a long indulgent kiss that made both catch their breaths at the emotion it brought.

“Nope, you never have, other’s might have, but...”

Giving the woman a close look, she tipped her head on one side and asked, “But?”

“Never for the same reasons as you probably do.” Smirking at the slowly dawning expression then gently being cuffed on the chin for her teasing.

“Time for lunch, dear?” Still smiling broadly her heart fluttered as she wondered if lunch might be a long affair. Affair, hmm, what a nice thought.

Giving the singer an apologetic glance she shrugged her shoulders. “Can’t, Joanna, Mom is calling anytime with the news. She left me an email message to be around at lunchtime, sorry.”

“No worries, love,” just then the phone rang and Fleur rushed around the desk to answer it giving her lover a mouthed apology for the interruption.

Jojo had an idea and waving her hand at the blonde, who was engrossed in conversation, not with her family by the sound of it, left the room.

Five minutes later Fleur had completed her call from the main contractor who was asking about his money. Fortunately, she had the payment ready for him, but was disappointed that Joanna had left so hurriedly. Oh well, maybe she had someplace else to go. She sank down to the chair and opened the drawer to her desk seeing the envelope that contained the award ceremony photos. As good a time as any to check them over at least until her mom called.

Flicking over them she smiled at several. Jack looked very handsome dressed up to the nines and wondered if he had a wife or partner. The man was cagey about his personal life though who wouldn’t be in that business. She pulled a face when she saw one of Tandy smiling winningly for the camera. She was one confident and showy cookie that one. God help anyone who ever got involved...

The rest of the photos splayed out like an unwanted deck of cards onto her desk as she lifelessly held one photo in her hand. Her mind falling like a stream over a waterfall...this was a fake! It had to be! Joanna wouldn’t have been seen like this in public, especially with her! The picture screamed to her that it was all wrong, but clearly both women appeared to be enjoying the clinch. How could Joanna not mention this to her, especially now? Didn’t she think it was worth mentioning? Of course it was. It had far reaching consequences if the media blew it out of proportion and started labelling the singer. Not to mention it had a profound effect on her too!

She whispered into the empty room as an errant tear trickled down her cheek. She wondered if the situation with Joanna was temporary. She’d always said that love wasn’t for her and none of her relationships had ever worked. Could this be the reason why, she wasn’t faithful? God, had she been a fool to believe that the singer wanted her and only her in her life? She had, hadn’t she...she was a fool.

As her mind played scenarios with her fragile feelings and the insecurities of old resurfaced, the phone rang once more and she picked it up abstractly. “Hello.”

“Fleur? Is that you, Fleur?” Karen Adams asked quickly her voice holding a tone of excitement. Immediately Fleur pushed down her overwhelming need to strangle Joanna for not telling her about this picture so she could listen to her mother.

“Yeah, mom, how are you? And Bradley, what’s the score?” Fleur refused to allow her tangled emotions to transmit over to her mother. She didn’t have time for this right now Bradley was the most important one at the moment.

The door to her office opened and Jojo walked confidently back in the room, her arms full of sandwiches and snacks along with a couple of Starbucks coffees they both enjoyed.

Glancing up at the intrusion, Fleur melted all over again as she came face to face with the woman who held her heart and could crush it so easily. “My mom.” Fleur informed the singer who grinned then sat down on the chair opposite her friend and carefully opened up the impromptu lunch offerings.

“Is Joanna with you?”

“Yes, she’s brought me lunch and by the looks of things, dinner too. You should see the stuff she’s brought in.” It was hard to do anything but smile as she heard her mother laugh at the idea of a mountain of food. Sure enough the singer knew Fleur’s appetite well enough.

“Fleur, we have some news.”

“Good news?” sitting closer to the desk as she pulled the receiver into her cheek.

“Cautious good news. The specialist says there may be a chance that Bradley can be helped.”

“Cautious? Mom what does that mean, he either can or can’t?”

“Don’t be so black and white, Fleur. Some things are more complicated than others and in your brother’s case, that’s a fact. The treatment he plans will take about a year, but already Brad’s picking up and looks much better than when he left New York. They have a blood cleansing treatment that has removed the toxins that were killing him. The next step is to work out how to stop them from coming back.”

“Mom, that’s wonderful! That means Bradley has a good chance of enjoying a normal life?” Fleur was excited. Her eyes sparkled and her voice picked up the tempo as she rushed on.

Jojo, her heart feeling light from what she had heard so far from the one-sided conversation, gazed at the love of her life looking happier than she had when she had first walked through the door. Fleur must have been fretting over taking the call, but things looked like they were getting better all round. As she half listened to the conversation, her eyes strayed to the photos on the desk and leisurely picked a few up. Wonder where Fleur got these? While picking up them up, Fleur pushed the one offending photo, which attempted to crush her world into little pieces, towards her. She glanced at the smaller woman whose eyes held a question. Glancing at the photo quickly, she blinked rapidly when she saw the evidence of that stupid situation at the party stick a finger in the air to her. Leaning back in her chair she sighed heavily and closed her eyes. This had to happen now, didn’t it? Just when she thought everything was finally coming together for her and for once in her life a relationship was going to work out, a spanner gets pushed in the works.

Fleur completed her call with a hasty goodbye since the phone disconnected at the other end. Phone cards were great, but could be awkward when they ran out unexpectedly, as her Mom’s had. Never mind. She now knew what was happening and it was all good news. Next up, what of her lover and could she explain herself or was this picture the black and white situation it appeared to be.

“Do you want to tell me what this is all about?” Crossing her arms over her chest and wishing she were someplace else, Fleur waited for the answer. She would be unable to eat the delicious food in front of her until she knew one way or the other what she meant to Joanna.

Instead of being suitably embarrassed and apologetic about the situation, Jojo became angry. What was this, a trial? The tone and stance of her lover indicated that she had done something wrong and she hadn’t! “Do I need to explain anything? It was a party and people get carried away.”

Swallowing hard at the comment, Fleur didn’t know what to say to that. She was being driven by jealousy much like the time she had left the singer before, when she was engaged. Was this going to happen a second time around? “I guess not.”

Jojo listened to the clipped voice of her friend. Okay, she had been stupid not to mention that the kiss happened, although she had no idea that Fleur would find out this way. She would have told her...eventually; if she remembered, or it was important. It just hadn’t been important, not to her. Tandy was a kid and couldn’t hold a candle to Fleur in anything. “Good, what’s the deal with Brad?”

Fleur, having heard that tone before, gave the singer a long hard stare. That was Joanna’s way of saying the subject was ended, but was it. Should she dare let it go and leave it to simmer in the background of their relationship? Not this time!

“Tell me one thing, please, Joanna. Do you love me?” The singer shook her head slowly as she shrugged her shoulders unable to comprehend why Fleur thought she didn’t. Hadn’t they shown each other exactly how much in the last couple of weeks?

Standing up Jojo walked towards her lover, a small smile on her face and an unfathomable expression in her eyes. Kneeling beside her friend, she took the slender smaller hand in hers and stared unflinchingly into the woman’s eyes. “I love you, want you, need you and most important of all, I will NOT cheat on you!”

Gulping back a sob of happiness Fleur flung her arms around her lover and whispered incoherently into her ear. The situation put Jojo off balance making her fall backwards dragging Fleur with her and collapsing onto the floor in a heap. Both women were laughing at how ridiculous this would look if anyone came into the room. Staring deep into Fleur’s eyes, Jojo’s filled with happiness along with a dangerously smouldering look just beneath the surface. “Have you ever thought about making out on the floor?”

A chuckle and red-cheeked response was her answer. Jojo kissed the woman lying on top of her with deep tender passion. “We can’t, Joanna, not here. Someone might come in.” She struggled a little to extricate herself from the strong, but loving arms that held her, that after a playful time allowed her to move away without a problem.

Sitting up, she grinned wickedly while Fleur stood over her offering her a hand to get up. “Someone might come that’s true, another time perhaps.”

Unable to stop the flush from returning to her cheeks, Fleur shook her head as she smiled wickedly, “Perhaps.”

Standing beside her lover Jojo looked towards the food on the desk, “Can I interest you in a little light lunch instead?” she asked with an exaggerated wave towards the fare on the wooden table.

Giggling at the gesture, “Light lunch? Joanna, there’s enough there for five people not two.” She exclaimed relaxing and allowing the destructive thoughts to dissipate for good. After all, she had the real thing and all Tandy had been a photo, no contest. Picking up the offending photo she tore it into the smallest of shreds and with a satisfied grin on her face, tossed it into the bin, much to Jojo’s amusement and relief.

“Got to keep my girl well fed, can’t have anyone thinking I neglect her. Now tell me, what’s the situation with young Brad?”

~ ~ ~

Standing and watching Joanna perform her latest hit on stage from the side lines, Fleur couldn’t help but feel enormously proud of her and all she had achieved since they met that incredible fateful day in Danvers over four years before. They’d had their ups and downs as most people do. Perhaps theirs wasn’t exactly the conventional ones, but they’d seen the good and bad sides of each other’s characters. Perhaps that was the wrong term, their human failings would be better and they both had those as everyone did at times. Because of the business they were in, the situations became exaggerated, but they would cope because they cared about each other on every possible level.

The first few weeks of their flourishing love for each other had been strange in many ways. At first they decided to keep it private. Not even telling their closest family, but who could have kept it from Joanna’s family, especially her grandmother, who after the initial shock, had been interestingly enough their staunchest supporter. Then again, it could have been because her lover’s father had doubts, which Joanna had inadvertently mentioned one day, about them settling down as a family unit instead of roaming the world. She hadn’t known if Joanna had sown that seed on purpose because she knew how her grandmother might react, it worked whatever strategy she’d decided on. Her own mother had welcomed Joanna into the family with open arms. She knew what it meant to be in love and have obstacles in the way of that love succeeding. Anyway, as she put it, there were other more important issues in the world than petty squabbles over same gender love.

As the song on stage became wistful in melody, so Fleur’s mind did too, her thoughts on the sale of the hotel. When her family had arrived back from Switzerland, it was only to sell up and embark on the long and expensive road of treatment for her brother. That had been six months ago and the sale had been finalised a few days earlier. All she knew was that an unknown company had purchased the building and nothing more was known. A part of her felt sad at the hotel being sold, but as she had found out in Danvers, it was another opportunity to sample another life. In this case, it was going to go towards saving her brother’s.

Jack had been a pillar of strength when they admitted their love. He agreed that for the moment they should take a private view on it, he was grateful they had told him, especially if the press caught hold of the story and decided to make a big thing of it. Fortunately for them, Tandy was making bigger waves in her own world. She had a whirlwind affair with a roadie on tour and ended up marrying him and divorcing him within the month. The kid was running at full throttle into every experience she could and although she knew Joanna had a soft spot for the girl, it was her desire to see the girl didn’t make the same mistakes she had when she had first started out. The evidence was that Tandy would make her own mistakes, at least she knew Joanna was there if she needed her.

That of course left them!

Crashing applause followed the song as it ended and she smiled. Her lover would be finished in a few minutes and they could go home and indulge in...well the singer was always hyped up after a concert and she had lots of restless energy to expunge.

“Hey, Fleur, are you in a daydream? Our girl wants you on the stage.” Pete tells her pushing her towards the stage area. What was going on, she never went on stage...ever!

“Ah, there she is. Come on out here, Fleur, the folks out here are dying to meet you.” Jojo grinned winningly at her manager, best friend and most important of all...lover.

Unable to do anything else but slip out on the stage, she was amazed as the crowd applauded and wolf whistled her. Wait until Joanna got home, she was in big trouble this time.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I met this lady a while back and she is the other half of what makes Jojo Lackerly the woman she is today. If you will indulge me, I have a song especially for her.”

Eyes bulging in surprise, she was mesmerised by the singer’s coaxing eyes, which gently led her to sit on the stool next to her while she whispered three words to her, “I love you.” She knew the surprised look was replaced by a goofy smile. God what love did to you.

---

From the tips of your ears, fingers and toes there’s a map I have of you
All of you with every breath and beat of your heart
Watching you shake your head then that smile, which is just for me
Someplace deep inside I’ll be waiting and together we know

No matter how long it takes you will be mine completely, loving you for eternity, improbable protector of my heart

Your clothes peel off as you take a shower
My eyes wonder at the sight relishing every splash
Deliciously exciting, demanding my attention
I’m amazed at your power you take me ensnaring me in your tower

No matter how long it takes you will be mine completely, loving you for eternity, improbable protector of my heart

Sometimes the road is rough it takes us to the far side
Darkness might greet us on the way
Love never leaves me behind now that you are part of my heart
Luminosity invades like a brilliant star scorching me inside with your light

No matter how long it takes you will be mine completely, loving you for eternity, improbable protector of my heart

Echoes of loneliness can invade recalling times and other ways
Now I know for sure that you are here to accompany me through all my days
No longer lonely but filled with tender love to share
No false promises can ever be good enough for you

No matter how long it takes you will be mine completely, loving you for eternity, improbable protector of my heart

Take your time now darling as you watch me leave for a time
Because you know I’ll be back
No one can ever replace you in my heart and the love we share
In every way in any way I’ll not let anyone take you away
What I feel is real and will last eternally

No matter how long it takes you will be mine completely, loving you for eternity, improbable protector of my heart

---

As the final chords of Jojo’s guitar completed the segment, she bent towards Fleur, “All yours, love.”

Fleur was unable to do more than stutter. Did Joanna know what she was doing, that was a love song!

“I...I can’t believe you did that, are you mad?”

Grinning wickedly she shouted above the applause, “Yeah for you, do you mind?”

Shaking her head she dropped down from the stool and gave her partner a long-suffering look as she left the stage.

Pete was watching from the wings with a big smile on his face. Walking towards him, she glared half-heartedly at him. “Did you know she was going to do that?”

“Tell the world she loved ya?”

Embarrassed at the good-natured way he said what she was thinking, “I guess.”

“Nope, but she sure pulled it off. Next best thing to a proposal in this business I’d say.” He grinned at her and left the area as she bemusedly watched the love of her life give a final encore.

~ ~ ~

Snuggling into the well-muscled shoulder of her lover, Fleur reflected on what had happened last night. After the concert, reporters had plagued Joanna and she hadn’t gotten away from the skirmish either. They had repeatedly been asked if anything was going on between them, but both had declined to comment fuelling the situation even more. They’d called Jack to tell him what had happened and he had said not to worry, he’d handle the press.

After that she had stood and watched the singer pour them a drink, snatch a few sandwiches from the refrigerator and settle into the large sofa. Then Joanna looked directly at her with a puzzled expression on her face wondering why she hadn’t settled in next to her.

“Am I in trouble? Last time you looked like that it was over that photo of me and Tandy.” Jojo laconically asked as she bit into a snack being ravenous after the performance.

Fleur sometimes wondered about her friend. She didn’t always see past what she thought was okay and giving little regard to what others felt. “I was surprised at you, that’s all, I hate being made a public fool.” There, it was out. She’d felt like that when she’d had time to get her riotous thoughts under control.

“What!” startled at the comment Jojo pushed away the food and drinks and stood up walking over to her lover unable to comprehend the situation. Had she done that, made a fool of Fleur? It certainly wasn’t what she had in mind, far from it.

“Joanna, I’m not like you. I hate the limelight, you know that!” Fleur stood her ground because she knew if the singer kissed her, she would lose her powers of deduction and go to pieces. Sensual pieces...incredibly pleasurable pieces, but pieces all the same.

Mulling over the sentiment Jojo realised that she’d made a mistake. It was true, Fleur preferred to be in the background, but she wanted, no needed to let the world know how important the blonde was in her life, so important she wrote songs about her and for her. They might not be able to do the conventional stuff heterosexual couples did, but at least she could shout it or sing it, in her case from the rooftops. “I wanted the world to know I love you. I’m sorry it didn’t sit right with you, Fleur.”

The words tinged with sadness sent a simple yet powerful message to her heart, “Was this your way of proposing to me?” Recalling Pete’s observation of earlier that evening.

Both women looked at each other and the glum expression on Jojo’s face cleared up as she smiled brilliantly, “I couldn’t have put it better myself. Do you have an answer for me?”

Fleur stepped towards the singer and tenderly traced the lines around her lips that the smile created, “I love you no matter what and if you need an answer then there can only be one, yes.” Flinging her arms around the taller woman who held her tightly as they deeply kissed igniting the passion immediately.

Several minutes later they breathlessly parted. Jojo swung Fleur up into her arms and strode purposefully towards their bedroom. “Don’t you want to eat first?”

“Hmmm, sure. I have a wonderful appetiser in my arms right now that is waiting for me to take my pleasure and...” The gurgle of sexual pleasure left Fleur’s throat, as she knew exactly what that meant.

“And?” She asked while wickedly teasing her lover by placing delicate tiny kisses along her collarbone and neck.

“And eating her might be an option.” They both laughed as they landed on the bed and made love until dawn.

Now, as she felt the tender stroking of the larger hand on her abdomen, she marvelled at how life can change and bring so much happiness into it. She was happy, so very much that sometimes it was hard to take and her heart felt like bursting.

“Want to share what you’re thinking?” Joanna’s voice rumbled softly up from her chest as Fleur lay there contentedly.

“How did you know I was awake?”

“Easy, your breathing changed. You forget, my love, I have sensitive ears and they are very, very sensitive with regards to you.” The hand that had been doing a circular movement over her stomach now teased her by caressing the underside of her breast. Damn it, but Joanna could turn her on in a second.

“Oh, just about us and how happy I am.” Fleur moved slightly so that she could partially see Joanna’s face.

“I’m glad you’re happy because I know I sure am and it’s all because of you.”

Giggling at the comment, Fleur countered with, “No, please, it’s all because of you.”

“Oh, no, please, it’s all because of you, my love.” For several minutes they traded like for like until the passion that they held in check bubbled over and they found that making love was far better than trading metaphors.

As their passion ignited to a flame, improbable protectors went about their work...protecting and nourishing a love that had grown from an improbable meeting.

Anything in life was possible!

The End

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