DISCLAIMERS:

COPYRIGHT: Cass and Rox are figments of my imagination... Yep - I created them all by my 'lil ole self. They do resemble a certain warrior and bard in appearance, and maybe even in mannerisms, but other than that, they are original creations, and are Copyright, 1999 by kd bard. Character or name resemblance to 'real' people currently living or dead is completely coincidental. Download it, print it out and share it if you'd like, but be sure to include the disclaimers.

SUBTEXT: This story is alternative in nature. If you don't know what that means, then you really need to find out before you start reading. The ladies in this story meet and really like each other ... I mean ... they REALLY, REALLY, REALLY like each other. This story does contain some mildly graphic sex scenes. If you're offended by this statement, then you'll be offended by the story. If you're not old enough to be here, then please go find some Disney stories to read. If love is illegal where you live, I strongly suggest you move.

VIOLENCE: Domestic violence plays a focal part of this story. If you are currently in an abusive situation... please get out now! Abuse is a crime that can not be tolerated... stop the cycle with yourself or someone you love.

TIME LINE/CONTINUITY: This is a brand new alternative fan fiction, set in modern day time, starring a couple of new leading ladies. This story can be found on my home page at http://homepages.together.net/~warriorx/WebPage.htm along with a host of other good stories. Enjoy!

AUTHOR'S NOTES: I strongly believe that love is love, regardless of how it is packaged, so please don't flame me for believing in something so wonderful. All flames will be immediately extinguished by a tour through the city's sewer pipes, however, I do beg for constructive criticism. Send all feedback to warriorx@together.net.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: A very big thanks to those of you who took the time to find my booboo's ... Mom, Marn, Mel, Ili, Beck, Rosa. I really appreciate it - you've saved me once more from looking like a literary idiot! Thanks to Little Warrior for listening to my disjointed rambling while I worked through the hard parts, and for helping me practice... ah... ah... I mean, proof the really 'good' parts (^^). Special thanks to Ili for providing the Spanish translations (the English versions are provided in brackets []). Finally, a warm thank you to MQ and BG for their technical wisdom and spiritual guidance.

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO READERS: I want to thank all of you for your patience while I have laboriously worked out this story. I know it has been customary for me to post stories on a more frequent basis, but my life has gone through drastic changes over the past few months... changes that are largely good, but traumatic, nonetheless. A new love has entered my life ... a love that has given me the courage to express my true heart ... a love that will endure for the rest of our lives. I love you my Little Warrior. An old love has left ... the end to a lesson well learned. Family illness, and unprecedented family love ... all of this has worked to change my life in ways I can not describe. Thank you all. kd :-)

CHAPTER VII

Monday Morning. Cass wondered where the weekend went as she rolled over and turned off the alarm. Damn, I've got a flight into Veracruz today, she thought. That part of Mexico was beautiful -- situated on the Gulf coast, it was a popular tourist attraction, but it was a long flight, and it usually meant a layover for at least a day -- sometimes two. There were times that Cass wished she had never volunteered for specialized flights. At least commercial flights were on regular schedules ... but at the time, it was a good arrangement for her. Patti had just died, and the specialized flight job kept her busy, kept her mind off Patti.

Cass grumbled as she climbed out of bed and slipped on her spandex shorts and sports bra. Tying her Nike's tight, she stepped onto the treadmill and started the machine on 4.5 miles per hour for a 15 minute warmup. Soon, the had the belt moving at 8 miles per hour and had inclined the bed 10 degrees. For the next half hour, she ran, until she was drenched with sweat and her quads were twitching with over-exertion. Another 15 minutes of cool down and stretching, had Cass ready for the shower.

Standing under the spray, she supported her upper body with her hands against the wall and stood there, allowing the spray to cascade over her head, savoring the feel of tiny needle-like jets of spray bombarding her skin. Closing her eyes, she remembered all the times she had stood in this very spot, in this very position, with strict instructions to keep her hands firmly against the shower wall, as strong, callused hands slid over her skin, and ran up and down her legs, across her breasts and abs, only to slide down into her womanhood, while hot breath whispered words of love into her ear from behind. Cass threw her head backward and pressed her body into the invisible intruder as a moan escaped her lips. Suddenly realizing that she was alone, she straightened her posture and dropped her chin to her chest. Taking a deep breath, she felt a tightness in her gut. Reaching out for the soap and face cloth, and proceeded to cleanse her body and mind of the physical and emotional workout she had just given them.

Toweling herself dry, Cass couldn't keep her mind off her sense of loneliness. How she craved the feel of someone wrapped in her arms, of coming home to someone who loved her ... shared moments, feeding each other morsels of food in front of the fire place, shared kisses that turned into wild nights of passion, tender looks and caresses while watching a movie together on the couch. She stood there in front of the bathroom mirror, staring at her unseen lover as she held the towel in front of her. Angie was right, I am lonely.

Better to be lonely than heartbroken Cassidy ... remember that, Enforcer piped in. You'd better think long and hard before committing yourself again. You need a safe relationship ... one that can't hurt you. How about that e-mail chick you've been corresponding with? She's a whole continent away. How much safer can you get than that? Enforcer added.

Cass blinked several times before her surroundings came back into focus. E-mail. She said to herself. Rox. I wonder if she's answered my last post? Hanging the towel on the rack, she pulled her robe on and went to her office to boot up the computer. While she was waiting, she dressed in her uniform and combed out her long dark tresses. Coming back to the computer, she logged onto the Internet and clicked on her inbox. It was empty. Disappointed, she shut the computer down. She's got a life of her own, Cass. She isn't sitting around waiting for your calls, you know.

Cass finished preparing for work with a heavy heart. It was going to be a long two days in Mexico. She decided that if she hadn't heard back from Rox by the time she returned, that it was probably a lost cause. Sighing deeply, she pulled her condo door shut behind her and headed to her car.

Had Cass been thinking straight, she would have realized that she sent the note after midnight, Pacific coast time. Had Cass been a psychic, she would have realized at the very moment she send the note, Rox was being beaten senseless by Chris. As Cass sat there this morning, fretting about an empty inbox, Rox was wrapped in the arms of her friend Nikki, crying out her sorrow. Two coasts, two women, one lonely in her solitude, the other in her abuse ... both absorbed in their own private miseries.

**********

It had taken most of the morning to load the cargo onto the plane. Cass was flying a goodwill mission into Veracruz, Mexico to deliver much needed medical supplies for the outlying regions of the port city. The area had suffered a severe drought that summer and most of the area's monetary resources had gone into maintaining the population's food stores, causing a shortage in other critical areas, such as medical supplies. It was nearly 3 p.m. before Cass' plane left the runway. With a stop over in Juarez , the flight would take approximately 6 hours, landing in the Veracruz area around 9 p.m. that evening.

Twenty minutes into the flight, Cass leveled the plane out at the cruising altitude and engaged the automatic pilot. Releasing her safety belt, she pressed the illuminated button to notify the passengers that they were now free to move around the cabin. Sitting back, she rested her head against the back rest and closed her eyes for a moment.

"Are you okay, Cass?" the flight attendant asked, placing her hand affectionately on Cass' shoulder.

Cass opened her eyes and looked up at the woman. Ginny was a tall, shapely woman with a wild mane of blonde hair, powder blue eyes and a beautiful smile that showed off deep dimples. She had been flying Cass' flight for the past six months, and made no secret of the fact that she thought the dark haired pilot was attractive.

Cass smiled. "I'm fine, Ginny. Just a little tired, that's all. Thanks for asking," she said. That certainly was the truth, she told herself. I did lose sleep in the middle of the night.

Ginny squeezed Cass' shoulder. "Can I get you anything, Captain? Coffee? A soft drink?" she asked.

"Coffee sounds good ... black," she said, smiling once more.

Hey Cass ... here's your chance -- she certainly seems willing! Enforcer urged. You've got a layover in Juarez ... all you need to do is get her alone in the cockpit ... he, he, he ... funny how they call it a cockpit, huh? Must be a reason for it, don't ya think? I'm telling you girl... you need to get laid -- it'll do us both some good. Whaddaya think?

Cass shook off the enticing thoughts as she turned her attention back to Ginny to accept the coffee that was being handed to her. There's not exactly enough room, or privacy in here for that ... she thought, glancing at her co-pilot. Maybe when we land in Veracruz? She smiled once more and let her hand linger a little longer than necessary, on the one handing her the coffee cup. Ginny looked down into blue eyes that nearly mirrored her own and read the promise in them. She smiled nervously, her heart fluttering at the prospect of a sexual encounter with the beautiful Cass Conway.

"I, ah ... I'd better get back to the passengers," Ginny explained, nervously turning to leave the cockpit.

"Thanks, Ginny," Cass said sincerely to the stewardess' retreating form. You've still got it, Conway! Enforcer bragged as she watched the blonde's swaying hips walk down the narrow aisle.

Sitting back in her seat, she sipped her coffee, sighing with deep satisfaction at the rich, full bodied flavor running down her throat. Ah, Ginny, I hope you make love as good as you make coffee, Cass thought as she took another sip of the flavorful brew.

As it turned out, Cass was caught up in security checks both on the plane and in the administrator's office at the airport during the layover in Juarez, and had no time to set up a date with Ginny for their night in Veracruz. I'll have to approach her on the flight to Veracruz, she thought to herself as she taxied the plane to the runway for take off. Moments later she had liftoff as the wheels gracefully rose from the runway and the plane made is assent into the clouds.

Once the plane was at cruising altitude and locked into auto pilot, Cass turned the controls over to the co-pilot and went in search of Ginny. After a ten minute search with no success, she approached one of the other stewardesses and inquired as to Ginny's whereabouts, only to learn that she had returned to San Jose from Juarez after receiving an emergency call from her family. Cass' brow creased in concern for Ginny, and in disappointment for a lost opportunity at sharing a night of mutual sexual fulfillment. Damn! she said to herself. I was looking forward to feeling alive again... I hope Ginny's family is okay, her conscience added as she returned to the cockpit.

Cass' flight landed on schedule in Veracruz. After filing her flight log and checking on the schedule for unloading her cargo, she arranged for lodging and then went in search of something to eat. An hour later, she was back in her room and laying across the bed, still fully clothed, hands behind her head, thinking of what might have been. Finally, overcome by jet lag an a lack of sleep from the night before, she drifted off to sleep.

**********

Roxanne was still in bed early Tuesday morning when Nikki let herself in.

"Rox? Rox where are you?" she called through the house, knowing her friend was at home as evidenced by her car still in the driveway. "Rox?" she called again as she checked the back deck, living room and kitchen before heading to the stairs. Reaching the second floor, she went directly to Rox' room, knowing the guest rooms would be empty. "This house is way too big for you, Roxanne," Nikki said under her breath. Reaching Rox's door, she turned the handle and slowly pushed it open. She half hoped that Chris had come home last night ... she had a fight to pick with that son of a bitch.

Peering into the room, she found Rox spread out on the bed -- alone, the covers thrown off her upper body, coming to rest on her buttocks and legs. She was lying there on her stomach, with no shirt on. Her hair was half in her face, and her arms were tucked under the pillow. Nikki slowly approached the bed and stood there looking down at the criss-crossing welts across her friend's back.

"God, Rox. That must have been so painful," she said softly as she gently sat on the edge of the bed next to her friend. A tear of sympathy escaped her eye as she opened the bag she had brought and dumped the contents onto the comforter. Picking up the tube of soothing balm, she squeezed a generous amount into her hands and put the tube aside. Rubbing her hands together, she climbed onto the bed and straddled Rox's backside, being careful not to irritate any of the welts.

Rox began to stir as she felt Nikki's presence on her back. Bending over, Nikki whispered in her ear, "Shhhh ... It's okay, Roxie ... it just me, Nikki. It's okay, sweetheart ..." she cooed.

Roxanne immediately relaxed as Nikki smoothed the salve over her friend's back, gently rubbing it in, slowly moving her hands up and down the expanse of Rox's toned back. Rox moaned as the salve cooled the heated welts, and winced as Nikki's hands moved over the tender skin. "Rox, honey, you've got to think seriously about leaving Chris. If you could see your back ... god girl, it rips my heart out to think of how this must have hurt," her friend whispered in her ear as she bent low over her back to reach her shoulders.

Rox felt her eyes burn as her friend's words touched her heart, causing tears to well up and spill over.

When Nikki had covered Rox's entire back, she helped her slip a T-shirt over her shoulders, then laid down next to her on the bed. Gathering the injured woman up in her arms and holding her close, she kissed her gently on the temple and whispered again into her ear. "Rox, come home with me. Jerri and I want you away from here when Chris comes home," she insisted.

Rox closed her eyes tightly, allowing more tears to escape. "Nik, I can't. This my home ... I won't leave it ... I can't," she said in a small voice, burrowing her head deeper into Nikki's shoulder and tightening the arm she had thrown over her friend's midsection.

Nikki closed her eyes tighter and nodded, knowing the red head would respond that way. "Rox, we are so afraid for you. Please think about it, love. Okay?" she pleaded.

Rox just nodded her head and tightened her hold on Nikki once more.

"Go back to sleep Rox," Nikki said as she kissed her temple again, then reached down to pull the comforter over both of them.

**********

Cass awoke in the middle of the forest, an intense feeling of foreboding settling in the pit of her stomach. Sitting up, she looked around, confused at her surroundings. Pulling her knees up, she rested her elbows on them and dropped her head into her hands. Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes, she once again looked around. She appeared to be alone, however, the camping gear and bedding laid out by a now-cold campfire suggested that someone else had been there with her. Coming to her feet, she looked around and noticed a sword on the ground next to the bedroll she had been lying on. Reaching down, she picked it up and examined it.

Why does this look so familiar? she asked herself.

Looking around some more, she realized that she was no longer dressed in her flight uniform, but instead, wore leather trousers, boots, a shirt made of some type of thin muslin with long billowy sleeves that cuffed at the wrists and held together loosely with thin leather laces, and a leather vest. A heavy cloak lay near her bedroll. At her hip, was a leather sheath, which fit the sword like a glove as she slipped the weapon into it. For the first time, she realized that it was relatively cool. Reaching for the cloak, she draped it around her shoulders, the proceeded to start another fire to warm herself by so she could comfortably sit and think about where she was and how she got there.

As she sat by the fire, basking in the warmth radiating from the flames, she heard a distant scream in the forest. Instinctively throwing off the cloak and grabbing the sword, Cass ran toward the source of the scream. Within moments, she came across two figures struggling in the distance. As she neared the cloaked pair, she realized one was a woman, and she was being beaten unmercifully by her larger companion.

Jumping into the fray, Cass threw her body weight against the figure assaulting the woman, knocking them both to the ground. The beaten woman collapsed where she had been released, and lay there in a semiconscious state as Cass struggled with her assailant. Rolling around on the forest floor, Cass managed to land a few good punches on the attacker's chin, before she was shoved off onto her back. Rising to her feet, she was confronted by the assailant's blade. Pulling her own, they engaged in a battle of swords, neither having the upper hand as metal clashed against metal. Finally, Cass caught the handle end of her opponent's sword and managed to disarm the attacker, sending the weapon flying several yards away. Seeing an opening, she reached up sideways and kicked the attacker full in the face with the side of her right foot, sending them crashing to the forest floor in an unconscious heap.

Approaching the defeated warrior cautiously, Cass used the end of her sword to shove the cloak off the assailant's face. It was a woman, and she was out cold. Kneeling, she laid her own sword down by her side and reached over to completely expose the attacker's identity. The assailant was indeed a woman, with a heart-shaped face, pointed chin and wild medium length white-blonde hair. Her slight build sported red leggings with dark suede boots that laced to her knee, a loose fitting white shirt, also with long billowy sleeves, and a leather tunic that slipped over her head and was held together by a leather belt that circled her waist twice. She too wore a sheath on her side for the sword she wielded so skillfully in battle.

Cass' inspection of her foe was interrupted by the sound of whimpering nearby. In the excitement of battle, she had forgotten the assailant's victim, who lay in a heap few feet away. Checking once more that her attacker was still unconscious, she cut off a piece of the assailants' own leather belt, and used it to tie her hands behind her back before going to assist the fallen woman. The woman was lying on her stomach, her cloak lying in shreds around her shoulders, her hair in wild disarray, the cloak partially obscuring her face.

Cass reached out to touch the woman's shoulder. She recoiled in pain, crying out in terror, begging to be left alone. In soothing tones, Cass spoke to the woman as she carefully removed the cloak from her body. Her clothes beneath the cloak were also in shreds. Wondering what could have possibly damaged two layers of cloth like that, she cringed and fought to hold the contents of her stomach down as the answer was slowly revealed to her as she de-layered the woman's clothing. The woman had been whipped.

Carefully removing the rest of her clothing, she soaked part of the cloth in a nearby stream to cleanse the woman's wounds. Finally, having done the best she could with what little she had, she returned to the assailant's still unconscious form and removed her cloak. Returning to the beaten woman, she carefully draped the cloak over her back and gently rolled her over, pulling the woman into her arms in the process. Once she was settled in as comfortably as possible, Cass reached over and pulled the front of the cloak together then brushed the damp hair from the woman's battered face. The woman's eyes opened suddenly, revealing the most magnificent pair of emerald green eyes she had ever seen. Cass' brow immediately furrowed, then shot skyward as she realized where she had seen those eyes before.

"Rox!" she whispered.

Suddenly, a piercing sound pealed through the air.

"Son of a bitch!" Cass exclaimed as she bolted into a sitting position and looked around in alarm, until she suddenly realized the sound she was hearing was the travel alarm clock she carried with her on her overnight flights. Reaching over, she shut off the offending noisemaker, then laid back down on the bed.

Looking up at the ceiling, she realized she was soaked in sweat and breathing raggedly. Raising a shaky hand to her forehead, she pushed back her damp bangs and tried desperately to make sense of her dream. "Rox," she whispered again. "Why am I dreaming about you? Why does it all seem so familiar?" Closing her eyes, she tried hard to remember the dream. She remembered the forest, and the beautiful blonde attacker, and ... "God, Rox ... the whip marks!" Opening her eyes once more she stared at the ceiling. "Tell me it was just a dream," she whispered into the air.

Several moments later, she threw her long legs over the side of the mattress and sat up. Taking a deep breath, she realized that she had fallen asleep in her uniform the night before. "Damn," she said into the empty room. Standing, she shook off the effects of the nightmare as she removed her clothes and headed to the bathroom for a hot shower.

**********

Roxanne felt the hair being brushed off her face. She was partially laying, partially sitting, in someone's lap. Her back hurt like hell. Opening her eyes, she looked up into a sea of blue, embedded in the most beautiful face she had ever seen. She had an intense feeling of deja vu as she looked up at the creamy skin, high cheekbones and long dark hair that framed the beautiful features. She closed her eyes tightly again to clear away the cobwebs in her mind.

"Rox?" the voice asked.

Her eyes flew open once more, to look straight into Nikki's green eyes.

"Nikki?" she said, painfully pulling herself into a seated position. Her eyes darted around the room looking for the blue eyed beauty she found herself staring at just moments earlier.

"Rox, are you all right?" Nikki asked.

Rox's eyes met her friend's. Confusion still clearly written across her features, she nodded her head, "Yeah ... yeah, I'm fine. What time is it?" she asked.

Nikki glanced at the digital clock by the bedside. "A little after 10 a.m. You must have been exhausted to have slept in so long, my friend," Nikki said, brushing Rox's hair back once more. "Here, let's get this T-shirt off again so I can rub some more salve into those welts," she instructed her friend.

Rox did as she was told, as she laid face down on the bed and allowed her friend to administer to her wounds. Nikki noticed the taciturn nature of her friend.

"Wanna talk about it?" she asked.

Roxanne shrugged her shoulders. "Not much to say, Nik."

"Why do I get the feeling this is not about Chris?" Nikki observed.

Rox lifted her head and looked back at her friend. "Am I that transparent, Nikki?" she asked.

"No, not really. It's just that you looked pretty confused when you opened your eyes a few moments ago. Wanna tell me what that's all about? I'm here to listen," she offered.

Roxanne allowed Nikki to finish rubbing the salve in before she sat up and put her T-shirt back on. Sitting cross legged on the bed, she faced her friend and took a deep breath. "Nikki, do you believe in dreams?" she asked.

"You mean, do I think dreams have meaning?" she asked for clarification.

Rox nodded her head.

Nikki drew her knees into her chest and wrapped her arms around them. "Gee, I don't know. I've never had a dream that's come true, but that doesn't mean it can't happen. Why, Rox? What were you dreaming about?" the petite blonde asked.

Roxanne looked down at the comforter, a little embarrassed. Glancing back at the friend, she said, "Nik, I've had this dream about a beautiful, blue eyed, dark haired woman coming to my rescue. It's happened twice now. Different dreams, but the same woman. I don't know what it means," Rox replied.

Nikki reached out and placed a hand on Rox's arm. "I don't know, Rox, but I hope to God that you don't have this dream with Chris around. This whipping will look like a slap on the hand in comparison. Rox ... Jerri and I really do want you to come stay with us for a while," she urged once more.

"I can't, Nikki ... please understand," she pleaded with her friend.

Nikki dropped her hand from Rox's arm. "Look, Rox, I know you want your father to believe you live an ideal, fairy tale world for the short amount of time he has left, but you're killing yourself in the process -- can't you see that? Sweetheart, I don't want you to become a statistic. Please come home with me," Nikki pleaded again.

Rox just kept her eyes diverted to the comforter, not answering her friend.

Nikki sighed. "All right, Rox," she said in a soft voice. "I can't force you." A slight pause ... "Rox, at least promise me you'll call the moment things start turning sour. Don't let them get out of hand again ... please. Jerri and I will be here before you have a chance to hang up the phone. Okay? Please promise me," she demanded.

Rox was crying ... tears falling onto her crossed legs and she nodded her agreement.

Nikki leaned in and wrapped her arms around Rox's neck. The top of Rox's head rested on the spot just above Nikki's breasts. Nikki rested her cheek on her friend's head and held her as she cried.

Moments later, Rox broke the embrace and sat up straight, wiping her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she smiled through her bruises. "Nikki, I really have to get to work. I have a deadline to meet on this next book. Why don't you go home and spend some time with that wonderful wife of yours before she has to go to work tonight. I'll be all right -- I promise," she said.

Nikki reached forward with both hands and drew Rox's face in for a kiss. Touching her forehead to her friend's, she said, "Promise me you'll call if you need me, Rox."

Rox thrust her chin forward and kissed Nikki on the nose. "I promise," she whispered.

"Okay," Nikki said as she released her friend and stood to go. Walking arm in arm out into the hallway, they parted company at the stairs to the attic. "I'll let myself out, Rox ... remember your promise -- okay?" she demanded.

"I'll remember," Rox said, smiling once more at her friend's protective streak.

One more hug and a couple of "I love you's" later, and Nikki was on her way home while Rox booted up her computer.

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

CHAPTER VIII

"Okay, let's get the e-mail out of the way before we get to work, Gerald," Rox said to her Giraffe friend as she clicked on the 'new messages' icon. "Huh... five messages, one old and four new. Damn, that's right, I never answered Cass' last post. I hope he doesn't think I'm rude, Gerald," she mused as she opened the post and reread it.

"Hey Rox!

Thanks again for replying. I really appreciate it.

You are right ... I am a pilot. I work for Southern Lights Airline ... I fly mostly into Central and South America ... occasionally a domestic flight. I was flying a domestic flight when I found your book in Dallas.

As far as the book turning out to be crap ... not a chance. How could someone as beautiful as yourself produce anything but perfection? I was not disappointed by the book, nor the picture. I was captivated by both.

The book cover says you are from the seacoast of Maine. If you don't mind sharing, what town do you live in? Are you directly on the ocean? I love the ocean, especially at night ... especially in the rain.

Anyway, thank you again for replying. I really do appreciate it, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Cass"

Rox stared at the screen debating about just how honest she should be with this person. Should she bare all and confess to living a life of pure hell? Should she confess that her last two books were based on her fatalistic belief that she was destined to form impossibly doomed relationships?

Taking a deep breath, she decided on a compromise.

"Hi again Cass!

You sound like you have a very interesting job. I hear Mexico and Central America are beautiful. Do you get a chance to do much sight seeing, or do you fly in and out? Some day I would like to travel ... to see the world ... to experience the beauty the earth has to offer. You are very fortunate to have that luxury.

I live in the town of Rockland, Maine, and yes, my home is situated directly on the beach. I love the ocean, and like you, I especially love it when it rains.

Thank you for the compliments on my work and my appearance. I'm afraid I'm not always as attractive as my picture may suggest. Circumstances don't always allow it. I am glad you were not disappointed with the story ... it was written during a time of traumatic upheaval in my life. Quite frankly, I am surprised it turned out as well as it did. I am currently engaged in another science fiction story with a romantic theme. I am afraid this one will be equally as difficult to write.

Sometimes my writing provides an escape from reality, the creation of a fantasy world where truly loving and dedicated relationships exist, where love is so intense and so real, it becomes tangible .... a world where people never hurt the ones the profess to love. It is a pity that print does not always emulate life, Cass. If you ever meet the woman of your dreams, reach out and grab her, treat her like a queen, and don't ever let her go. She will love you forever for it.

Look at me, philosophizing ... I am certainly in no position to be giving advice on love. Writing love stories certainly does not make me an expert on relationships. Forgive me for overstepping my bounds.

Well, you are probably very busy, and I have a book to write, so I will say adios for now.

Sincerely,

Rox"

"There, Gerald. That's one down and four to go," Rox said as she clicked the send button and opened the next file. Soon, with her e-mail out of the way, she settled in to write. As was normally the case, she became totally absorbed in her latest alien adventure and wrote well into the day, stopping only for nature calls and coffee.

As day turned to night, Rox decided to take a short break. Storm clouds had been brewing all day as the sky outside her lookout became dark and overcast with dark ugly clouds. Rox could feel the excitement of the pending storm building in her chest as she shut off all the lights in her office and threw the French doors wide open, allowing the wind to sweep in and swirl around her petite form.

Stepping out onto the balcony overlooking the ocean, she walked up to the railing and threw her arms out to the sides. Closing her eyes, she raised her face to the sky and smiled broadly, inhaling the salty scent of the sea as the wind whipped her hair into a frenzied array. Suddenly a clap of thunder loud enough to shake the entire house ripped through the night. Rox gasped, then let out a deep guttural scream from the recesses of her soul as lightning lit up the beach, the ocean, and everything in sight causing her hair to stand on end with static charge. Torrential rains quickly followed, drenching her to the skin as she stood there, arms spread wide, smiling ear to ear. Rox's chest was filled with such excitement, she thought she'd burst.

The sensation of rain pounding against her skin ... the claps of thunder vibrating through her very being ... the electric crackle of lightning causing her skin to tingle, all served to heighten the intensity of emotion and feeling she experienced to a point approaching an orgasmic climax. Rox knew that after experiencing an intensity of emotion such as this, she would be able to write well into the night. Sometimes, the excitement and energy generated by the a storm was enough to fuel her through several days of non-stop writing. Rox screamed once more as a simultaneous display of thunder and lightning danced across the sky. It would be a good night for writing.

**********

"This is your captain speaking ... please buckle your seat belts. We are currently entering a region of excess turbulence. Remain in your seats with your seat belts buckled until the seat belt sign is once again turned off. As always, it is recommended that your seat belt remained fastened as long as you are seated. Thank you," Cass recited over the intercom as she maneuvered the plane through the storm. "Damn, I hate flying in storms," she exclaimed to her copilot.

"I know what you mean," the man replied. "Have you even flown a plane that was hit by lightning?" he asked.

"Oh yeah. The last time it happened, the static electricity made my hair stand on end. Thankfully, nothing vital to the plane's operating systems was affected. I wouldn't want to fly a crippled plane through a storm like this," she replied.

"I hear ya," the copilot said.

Cass' day did not get off to a good start. After waking up that morning from the strange dream, she arrived at the airport, only to discover the grounds crew at the Veracruz airport had staged an impromptu strike to protest long hours and low pay. The last thing Cass wanted was to be held over in Mexico because of a labor dispute. Even though she wasn't directly involved, she was nonetheless not very good at the waiting game, and was chomping at the bit late in the day when a temporary settlement was made between airport officials and the workers, allowing her plane to be loaded and fueled for the long flight home. To make matters worse, the weather forecast indicated potential storm conditions in southern California, directly in her fight path.

The storm forced Cass to fly as less than optimum speed, resulting in the flight taking nearly 90 minutes longer to complete than scheduled. It was 10 pm before she finally stepped through the front door of her condo and dropped into the nearest chair. Resting her head back against the cushion, she sighed deeply, glad to be home, as she kicked her shoes off, loosened her neck tie, and released the top few buttons of her dress shirt. Thank god she had the next day off, so she at least had the luxury of sleeping in ... something she was looking forward to after being away from home for nearly two days.

Cass closed her eyes and thought of the dream that had jolted her awake that morning. She had an uneasy, sick feeling in the pit of her stomach when she recalled the whip marks on the woman's back ... especially after realizing the woman was a dead ringer for Rox. Cass was sure her imagination was working overtime, and there was probably nothing to worry about ... and besides, she didn't even know Rox. For some strange reason, she had Rox on the brain and her subconscious mind was playing tricks on her. Yeah, that was it.

Subconscious mind or not, it didn't stop Cass from booting up her computer to see if Rox had finally replied to her post. She held her breath as the computer seemed to take ten times longer tonight than usual. She watched the screen intently as the logon process seem stilted for several seconds. Finally, the message came across the screen Failed to make connection ... try again later.

"God damned, mother raping son of a bitch!" Cass screamed at the computer. "Fricken technology ... can't even connect to the Internet without an act of Congress," she complained loudly as she slammed her fist on the desk. Facing the screen, she shook her fist at the monitor and said, "I'm gonna take a shower. If you don't work by the time I come back, you're out the fucking window... understand?" she threatened. The monitor just sat there and took the abuse, while Cass stomped off to take her shower.

Luckily for the computer, a connection was made relatively fast as the newly showered Cass, with a much improved attitude, sat in front of it. "That's better!" Cass mumbled under her breath as her inbox came up, displaying one new message ... from Rox@starship.com.

Cass was suddenly very nervous. Sitting back in her chair, she took a deep breath. Get a grip, Cass. Its just a chick that lives three thousand miles away. You're acting like a schoolgirl here. Christ, grow up, will ya! Enforcer scolded as Cass built up the courage to open the note.

"Hi again Cass!

You sound like you have a very interesting job. I hear Mexico and Central America are beautiful. Do you get a chance to do much sight seeing, or do you fly in and out? Some day I would like to travel ... to see the world ... to experience the beauty the earth has to offer. You are very fortunate to have that luxury.

I live in the town of Rockland, Maine, and yes, my home is situated directly on the beach. I love the ocean, and like you, I especially love it when it rains.

Thank you for the compliments on my work and my appearance. I'm afraid I'm not always as attractive as my picture may suggest. Circumstances don't always allow it. I am glad you were not disappointed with the story ... it was written during a time of traumatic upheaval in my life. Quite frankly, I am surprised it turned out as well as it did. I am currently engaged in another science fiction story with a romantic theme. I am afraid this one will be equally as difficult to write.

Sometimes my writing provides an escape from reality, the creation of a fantasy world where truly loving and dedicated relationships exist, where love is so intense and so real, it becomes tangible .... a world where people never hurt the ones the profess to love. It is a pity that print does not always emulate life, Cass. If you ever meet the woman of your dreams, reach out and grab her, treat her like a queen, and don't ever let her go. She will love you forever for it.

Look at me, philosophizing ... I am certainly in no position to be giving advice on love. Writing love stories certainly does not make me an expert on relationships. Forgive me for overstepping my bounds.

Well, you are probably very busy, and I have a book to write, so I will say adios for now.

Sincerely,

Rox"

"Oh my god," Cass whispered into the empty room as she read and reread Rox's words.

What is it Cass? Enforcer asked, sensing Cass' gut wrenching reaction to Rox's note.

I'm not sure. Something isn't right here. She's in trouble. I can feel it, Cass replied to the voice.

What the hell do you mean, she's in trouble. How can you tell that from a fricken note? Enforcer asked angrily.

Look! She says her life is in an upheaval. E, she's writes about fantasy worlds where everyone is loving a gentle and kind ... It is a pity that print does not always emulate life ... Can't you see it? Cass asked.

Be careful Cass, this dame could be trouble. Be afraid ... be very afraid. Remember what happened with Patti. Take this one slow and easy, pal, okay? Enforcer encouraged.

Cass nodded her head up and down as she read the note again. Okay, what to write back, she speculated.

Cass stood up and paced back and forth in front of the computer for several minutes. She wasn't sure what it was about this woman that had her so worked up. She didn't even know her. Why should she be so concerned about the personal welfare of a person she didn't even know? Cass had no idea what was driving her need to communicate with this woman, but the need was real ... as real as the loneliness that fed it. Sitting back down in front of the monitor, she decided to be up front and honest.

"Hi Rox,

I must say that I was a bit concerned with your last reply. You seem troubled ... depressed maybe. Call me paranoid, having never met you, but I sense you are troubled by something ... or someone. I would be glad to listen if you'd like to talk. I am a good listener. I don't want to intrude on your life if you'd rather not ... I just thought you could use a friendly ear right now ... your last post indicated that you might.

Please don't be angry with me for expressing my concern. If you'd rather not discuss it, just let me know and I'll never bring it up again. I will continue to be an avid fan of your writing, and of your beauty, regardless.

I am here to help if you need me.

Yours always,

Cass"

Cass sent the note, then sat back and reread Rox's note several more times. Each time, she felt this underlying sense of sadness, desperation. She hoped she did the right thing by offering her ear.

After several more minutes of staring at Rox's note, she reached for the mouse to shut the computer down. Just as she was about to start the shutdown process, the new mail indicator flashed on the lower right hand corner of the screen.

**********

Roxanne had come in from the storm several hours ago, drenched to the bone, but on an emotional high that she knew would carry her through the night. Making her way down one flight of stairs, she stripped off her clothes and jumped into the shower, wincing as the jet spray abused her already tender back. Once her shower was done and she had donned a clean nightshirt, she returned to her office and resumed writing.

At nearly 1 a.m., she decided to take a much needed break. Standing up, she stretched her body as well as her bruises would allow, listening to her back crack in several places as she clasped her hands behind her and pulled up and back. Shaking the kinks out, she went over to the small kitchenette in the corner and made a cup of hot chocolate. Carrying it over to the computer, she set it down next to the keyboard, then sat down to resume writing. As her hands hovered over the keys, she noticed the exclamation point next to the tiny envelope in the bottom right corner of her screen. She had mail.

"Who would be sending mail this late in the evening, Gerald?" she asked her stuffed giraffe, a puzzled expression on her face as she clicked on the icon.

Cconway@flyboy.com appeared in the inbox. That was fast, Rox thought, not really expecting a reply to her earlier e-mail until the next day. Positioning the mouse pointer over the sender's name, she double clicked to open the note.

Rox read the note and immediately went into panic mode.

Oh my god! she thought to herself. I didn't expect him to pick up on my distress like that. Now what do I do? she asked as she pushed herself away from the computer and started to pace. What do I do? What do I do? she repeated. Okay, Rox. Calm down. It's only a concerned reader. So you gave a little more away in that last note than you intended. So what? So the guy wants to help. He's probably lonely and sees you as someone he can talk to from a safe distance. What can it hurt?

Rox read the post again and made a rash decision as she sat back down at the computer.

**********

Cass stared at the new mail indicator for several moments before clicking on it, refreshing her inbox. There on the screen appeared the address Rox@starship.com.

"Huh?" Cass said out loud. "I just e-mailed her!"

Thoroughly surprised that she had received a reply back within minutes after sending her last post, Cass hesitated to open it ... afraid it would be a "Dear John" letter of sorts, asking her to discontinue corresponding with the author. Finally building up the courage to open the note, she double clicked on the icon next to Rox's userid. It read:

"Hi Cass... Do you have time to meet me in chat?"

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

CHAPTER IX

Cass just sat there staring at the message. Chat? She wants to meet me in chat? she asked herself, suddenly feeling the urge to throw up. Oh my god ... I didn't expect this. Okay, Cass ... it's just chat. Stop being such a baby, she thought as she selected 'reply'.

"Hi Rox. I didn't expect a reply so soon. Sure, I'd love to chat. Name the place, and I'll be there," she typed before hitting the send button.

Moments later, the new mail message flashed again. "Go to this url: www.alienchat.com. I'll meet you there in a jiff."

With shaky hands, Cass entered the chat room, logging in as 'flyboy'. Come on, Rox ... Damn, I'm so nervous, she said to herself as she tried to be patient while waiting for the author to enter the room.

Within moments, the name 'alien' appeared on the screen.

"Rox?" Cass typed.

"Hi Cass!" came the reply.

"Hi yourself," Cass returned nervously, her heart beating furiously in her chest.

"How are you?" Rox asked.

"Fine, and you?" Cass replied, feeling really stupid with these polite, nerdy responses.

"I've been better," Rox typed.

"I sensed that from your last e-mail," Cass commented. "Are you all right?"

"For the time being," came the vague reply.

"Look, I know you don't know me, but I'm a really good listener if you want to talk about it," Cass offered.

No response.

"Rox?" Cass typed.

Several moments later ... "Cass, I'm having a bit of a problem right now that I need to work through, that's all," Rox replied.

"Is there anything I can do to help?" Cass asked.

"No, not really. It's kind of complicated. Let's just say that it's a situation I have to live with for a while," came Rox's reply.

"Well, if you need someone to talk to, you have my address," Cass offered.

"Thanks Cass, I really appreciate it," Rox said.

"So, you're working on a new book, huh?" Cass asked, changing the subject.

One could almost feel the sigh of relief in Rox's words as she typed, "Yes, I'm making pretty good headway. I had a bit of a setback due to an injury, but things are moving forward pretty steadily now," she explained.

Cass frowned at the mention of an injury, but brushed it aside and proceeded to engage in a hour-long discussion about the lack of romance in science fiction novels.

At the end of the hour, Cass was truly captivated by this woman she knew only in print. She found her to be bright, intelligent, kind and warm hearted, with a bubbly, outgoing personality that was truly contagious.

Rox felt all giddy inside. She found herself analyzing the feeling several times during the chat session, wondering why this person had captivated her so quickly. After all, she had only exchanged a few e-mails with him, but she found him to be bright, intelligent, kind and warm hearted, traits she had seldom seen in the men she had associated with in her past.

Finally, with the time approaching 2 a.m., Rox yawned, and realizing the time, she steered the conversation toward an end.

"Well, Cass. I must say I have enjoyed your company, but the hour is late, and I really must get some sleep if I plan to be productive tomorrow," she typed.

Cass looked over at the clock and was shocked to see 11 p.m. in red digits. Jesus, Cass, it's 2 a.m. where she is! she exclaimed to herself. Into the computer, she typed, "Rox, I am so sorry, I didn't realize it was so late. This three hour time differential can certainly fool you. I'd better let you go so you can get to bed. I really enjoyed our chat. I'd like to do it again sometime if you are available."

"I'd like that, Cass. Until later then, goodnight." Rox typed.

"Goodnight Rox," Cass replied.

Cass watched the screen as the words "alien has left the chat room" appeared on the screen.

Sighing deeply, Cass shut down her computer, then sat back in her chair. Picking up Rox's latest book that she had lying on her desk, she turned it over and looked at the promo picture. A smile came to her lips as she savored the warm feeling in her chest from the past hour spent with this beautiful woman.

Rox logged out of chat and returned to her manuscript. Finding it difficult to concentrate, she picked up her hot chocolate and walked out onto the widow's walk surrounding the third story of her home, and leaned against the railing. The storm had ended and the night was now cool but clear, with the stars so low in the sky, they appeared touchable. Looking out over the dark ocean, she sipped her drink, and savored the warm feeling inside her chest from the past hour spent with her new friend.

**********

Wednesday morning rang clear and bright as the sun shone through the open shade to fall on Cass' face, heat from the rays waking the sleeping woman. Opening her eyes, she looked at the clock and groaned. "7 a.m.?? Why can't I ever sleep in on a day off?" she said out loud. She was scheduled for another two day trip into Mexico on Thursday and Friday, and as usual, home for the weekend, so she was really looking forward having this day off.

Laying there in bed, Cass' mind soon turned to the chat session from the previous night. She couldn't keep the smile from her face as thoughts of the red headed author invaded her consciousness. God, that woman is something else ... beautiful, intelligent, beautiful, intuitive, beautiful, informed, beautiful, she thought as her grin widened, and a warm feeling spread through her stomach and lower abdomen. Cass' eyes widened at the sensation. Wow! I haven't felt that ... I mean, REALLY felt that since ... well, since Patti! she admitted to herself.

Reaching her arms over her head, she stretched her long form, arching her back into the mattress, and thrusting her breasts toward the ceiling as a whimper of satisfaction escaped her throat. Climbing out of bed, she donned her running clothes and headed out for her normal 5-mile trek, ending at Angie's diner for breakfast.

Walking into the diner, she threw her arms around Angie and gave the older woman a big hug. Angie was a little taken back by the gesture, and looked into Cass' face questioningly.

"What?!" Cass asked mischievously.

"What are you up to Cassidy Conway? You look like the cat who ate the canary," she commented to the taller woman.

Cass smiled broadly. "Now that's one canary I would definitely like to eat!" she commented, blushing at her own brashness.

Angie noticed the blush as she walked the younger woman to her usual table. "New lady friend, Cass?" Angie asked, chuckling.

Cass blushed some more as she sat down and held the menu in front of her face. Angie wasn't to be dissuaded. Reaching forward, she pulled the menu down and leaned over into Cass' face. "You know I won't go away until you 'fess up," she said.

Cass was trying her best to hold back her excitement. She way dying to tell someone about Rox. Grinning broadly, she leaned in to meet Angie nose to nose. "Coffee first, gossip second," she said, holding her cup up to the waitress.

Angie smiled and grabbed her cup. "Be right back..." she said, running off to fill Cass' cup and grab one for herself.

Coming back to the table, Angie sat down and slid Cass' coffee over to her. Cass took her time stirring and tasting the flavorful brew. Angie was bursting at the seams with anticipation.

"Caaaaassssss...." she said menacingly.

Cass grinned evilly, then finally gave in, feeling sorry for her friend. "Rox," she said.

Angie's brow creased. "Rocks? What do rocks have to do with anything?" she said, confused.

Throwing her head back, Cass laughed out loud. "No ... no ... Rox, as in Roxanne," she said, placing a large hand over her friend's.

"Roxanne," Angie stated flatly. "Roxanne ... who? Come on, Cass ... a little more information would be good!"

"Angie ... Starflight? ... You know ... Roxanne Ward?" she said incredulously.

"Roxanne Ward ... the writer?" Angie asked, her mouth open in awe. Seeing Cass grin and nod her head vigorously, she added, "Just how did you meet her?"

"Well, I haven't actually met her yet, Ang. We've traded e-mail a few times, and talked for an hour in chat last night," Cass explained.

Angie sat back in her seat, her eyebrows lifted into her hairline. "Now what kind of relationship is that?" she asked.

Cass smiled. "A safe one, Ang. Don't you see, we get a chance to know each other a little better before meeting face to face. It's perfect," she said, taking another sip of her coffee.

"Weird is what it is!" Angie exclaimed. "Cass, what ever happened to boy meets girl ... er ... sorry ..., girl, meets girl, girls get to know each other, girls fall in love? You know - the old fashioned way to meet a mate," she complained.

"Progress, Ang, progress," Cass said as her stomach suddenly announced itself to the ladies.

Cass looked up at Angie with a slightly embarrassed flush on her cheeks.

"I guess I'd better progress my butt into the kitchen and feed that beast, huh?" Angie said jokingly. "How about the special this morning?" she asked.

Cass glanced over at the specials board and saw French toast, sausage and home fries listed there. "Sounds good to me!" she said, sending Angie on her way.

Sitting back in her seat and crossing her long legs under the table, Cass picked up her coffee cup and brought it to her lips. I wonder what you're doing right now, Roxanne Ward? she said to herself.

**********

Roxanne carefully rolled over onto her side to look at the clock on the bedside stand. 11:30 a.m. Geesh, half the day is gone already, she admonished herself. Rox, why do you do it? You get to bed in the wee hours of the morning, then sleep half the day away.

Rolling onto her back, she looked up at the ceiling and tried to remember what had kept her up so late. A smile suddenly broke out across her face. Cass, she thought. Wow ... I can't believe we spent an entire hour talking like we were long lost friends. He really seems like a nice guy. I wonder what he looks like? she asked herself. Five minutes later, curiosity got the bet of her as she climbed out of bed and padded gingerly to the bathroom. Damn, I can't believe I'm still so sore. Nikki's right ... I really need to do something about Chris, she thought as she took care of bathroom chores then headed to her office.

Reaching down, Rox pressed the power button on her hard drive to boot up the computer. While it was powering up, she set up a new pot of coffee to brew, and retrieved a container of fat free yogurt from the small refrigerator on the shelf. As she stood in front of the computer eating her yogurt, she thought about what Cass would think if he saw her now. She was sure she looked a sight, with her hair standing on end and a collection of blue, purple and green hued bruises covering her face, neck and arms. She could only imagine what her back looked like after the whipping the other night.

Finally, the boot up was complete. Reaching over, she grabbed the coffee pot and poured herself a cup. Setting it on the desk, she sat down and logged on to the Internet. After selecting 'new message', she started composing ...

"Hi Cass,

I wanted to drop you a line to say that I really enjoyed chat last night. It has been a long time since I had such an interesting discussion about my work. My normal audience isn't usually interested in such things. I would very much like to chat with you again some time.

Btw.... you have an advantage ... you know what I look like, but I am at a loss. Wanna share?

Let me know when it is convenient for you to chat again. I work out of my home, so nearly any time is okay for me. Drop me a line and let me know.

I'll talk to you later,

Rox"

While she was rereading the message, she heard a voice call to her from the first floor.

"In the office, Nikki," she yelled loudly over her shoulder.

Moments later, the small blonde appeared at her left shoulder, out of breath from climbing two flights of stairs.

Rox looked at her friend. "You know, you really need to go to the gym ... you're out of shape, girl," she said, "although, the way you and Jerri go at it all the time, you shouldn't need exercise," she teased.

Nikki swatted her on the shoulder, causing her to wince.

"Ooohhh, sorry, Rox! I forgot about the whip marks ... sorry," she said again, looking over her friend's shoulder at the computer screen. "Cass?" she asked. "Whose that?"

Rox looked up at her friend and blushed. Nikki's eye brows took up residence in her hairline at the shade of her friend's face. "A new e-mail friend. We've been trading notes for about a week now ... met in chat last night. He seems like a very intelligent person," Rox said.

Reaching over, she placed two fingers under her friend's chin. "You look pretty in pink, Rox," Nikki said. "You must like this guy. I haven't seen you blush over anyone since you first met Chris."

Nikki looked at the screen again. "By the looks of it, you are planning on 'seeing' him again," she said, a bit cautiously.

Rox's eyes followed Nikki's line of vision to the note still on the screen. "Yeah, I guess I am," she admitted, smiling.

Turning her friend to face her, she looked into green eyes and said, "Rox, you know if Chris finds out about this, you'll be in big trouble. The whip marks on your back will feel like mosquito bites compared to what will happen."

Rox suddenly became serious. "I know, Nik. That's why Chris can't ever know ... 'kay?" she asked.

"I'll take it to my grave -- you know that, don't you?" Nikki asked her friend, who just nodded and hugged her in response.

Pushing the bangs off Rox's forehead, Nikki brushed her palm against her friend's cheek and said, "Okay, so tell me about Cass," she said.

"There's not much to tell. We've only chatted once ... and we spent most of the time talking about my writing. I didn't get a chance to even ask him what he looks like. The only thing I know for sure, is that he's a pilot ... see, his userid is cconway@fllyboy.com ... Ooohh, and I know that he flies a lot into Mexico and Central America." she finished.

"Well, that's certainly enough to base a relationship on," Nikki said sarcastically.

Now it was Rox's turn to swat her friend on the shoulder. "Nikki! No one said anything about starting a relationship! At this point, we're just friends."

"Just friends.... that's what you said about Chris two years ago," she replied.

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

CHAPTER X

It was early afternoon before Rox was able to convince Nikki to go home and let her work. Nikki was nervous because she wasn't sure when Chris was coming home. She didn't really want Rox alone when that bastard came back.

Nikki went straight home, then called Jerri at work to fill her in on the Cass situation. She also expressed her concern about Rox being alone when Chris got back.

"Sweetheart, call Rox and invite her to dinner tonight," Jerri suggested. We'll keep her out late. If Chris does come home today, maybe the son of a bitch will be sleeping by the time she gets there,"

"Jerri, my love, I knew there was a reason I keep you around!" Nikki exclaimed into the phone. "Well ... that and other things," she added coyly.

"Yeah, well, you can demonstrate those 'other things' when I get home tonight. Okay?" Jerri asked.

"Are you sure you want to keep Rox out late? I mean, it might eat into some of our 'quality time' together," the petite blonde said suggestively.

"There's only one thing I want to 'eat into' tonight, short shit -- and you know what it is!" Jerri teased.

"You are such a pig!" exclaimed Nikki into the receiver.

"Oink, oink!" came the reply. "Look, we'll keep Rox out till a respectable, but late hour, then we'll drive her home to make sure the house is safe before she enters. Okay?" Jerri added.

Nikki almost didn't catch that second part -- her concentration was too heavily focused on the first part of Jerri's statement.

"Respectable hour ... right ... okay, Jer. I love you sweetheart. Hurry home, okay? Maybe we can have appetizers before dinner," Nikki said in a sultry voice -- leaving no doubt as to what she meant.

After hanging up the phone, Nikki sent an e-mail to Rox ...

"Hey Girl,

Are you free for dinner tonight? I just spoke with Miss Gorgeous and she suggested I invite you over.

Let me know ... 'kay?

Love ya!

N"

**********

Roxanne made significant progress on her story before taking a coffee break late in the afternoon. As was her usual habit, she carried her coffee out onto the back deck and sat in her glider, looking out over the ocean as she enjoyed the flavorful brew. She loved to spend time there where it was serenely quiet, save for the sound of the crashing surf and the cawing of the seagulls overhead. All of her novels and journal entries had their origins there. It was there that the first sparks of romance between her alien lovers began to take shape.

For some reason, the atmosphere inspired her creativity. It was part of what she loved about her home. Rox sat there staring at the ocean long after she had seen the bottom of her coffee cup, a gamut of emotions running through her mind. She felt trapped. Caught in a relationship that was cruel and controlling. She didn't love Chris ... not anymore ... not since the beatings. They had been together for nearly two years, however it had only been the last six months or so that the abuse began. It was about six months ago that Rox started suspecting Chris was having an affair. She supposed the beatings were a way of soothing guilt ... of transferring the blame to her. Many times, she thought of leaving, but each time, Chris would bring up how a separation would break her father's heart. Rox just couldn't do that. She loved her parents devoutly, and vowed to make her father's last few months as happy as possible ... even if it meant living in her own personal nightmare.

Taking a deep sigh, Rox reached up and wiped a lone tear from the corner of her eye. Rising stiffly from the glider, she headed back to work, refilling her coffee cup on the way.

Sitting down in front of her computer, Rox decided to check her e-mail before starting to write again. She had two new messages, an advertisement from her local server, and one from Nikki. Clicking on Nikki's note, she began to read.

Hhmm, dinner. Sounds good to me. I haven't seen Jerri in a few days. It should be a good visit, she thought as she clicked on 'Reply'.

"Hey Nik,

I'd love to come to dinner ... but are you sure you two can tear yourselves away from each other long enough to take visitors? After all, my little mattress queen, you and the big guy have the most active libidos in Maine!

Let me know what time.

Love ya back...

R"

Roxanne clicked on 'send', then sat back to see if Nikki was monitoring her mail. Sure enough, moments later, a reply appeared. Rox grinned broadly as she read her friend's response.

"Roxanne Ward ... you are almost as bad as my wife. If I told you what she said to me earlier, I'd bet I could see you blush right over the phone. So big guy and mattress queen, huh? Do I sense some jealousy here?

Dinner at 6 p.m. Jerri will pick you up around 5:30 p.m. on her way home from work, okay?

See you then,

N"

Roxanne couldn't resist. As crass and straightforward as Nikki could be, she blushed easily when confronted about her overactive sex life. Clicking on 'Reply' once more, she wrote:

"Hi again, Nik!

Oh yeah ... Big Guy and Mattress Queen ... I like it! BG and MQ for short. Hey! Maybe I can write a comic strip about the two of you ... no, no ... better yet, I'll write a full length novel. Yeah, that's what I'll do! MQ can walk around with a self inflating mattress in her pocket! Whenever she gets the urge (say 10 times a day at a minimum), she just whips it out, pulls a cord and poof! Instant playground! Of course, BG would have to be available and ready at a moment's notice ... but somehow, I don't think that'll be a problem ... and no toys with pointy edges -- don't want to pop the playground!

BG could carry a pager, so she'd know when MQ is 'wantin' her woman' ... no, wait! I have a better idea ... BG could have super hearing, like supergirl or the bionic woman or something. Then she could hear MQ pull the rip cord and know exactly when she was needed ... oh yeah ... this is getting good. Oh, oh!!! Another good idea -- maybe BG could even blink herself places... you know, like I Dream of Jeannie??? Cool idea, huh? Then, as soon as she hears the rip cord, she could just blink and whammo ... she's jumping MQ's bones in an instant! That will save BG some time trying to find a phone to call the little hussy!

Now ... let me see, BG needs a costume ... super girl, wonder woman ... nah, those costumes are too dorky ... Hey! What about ... yeah, that's it! What about a skimpy little dominatrix outfit instead of blue tights and red cape, or those corny little wrist bands and star spangled suit that Wonder Woman wears?? That would be cool ... Yeah, yeah ... I can see it now -- short leather skirt, skimpy halter that just barely covers the essentials, boots, whip, brass gauntlets and wrist bands ... definitely a sexy breastplate. Shit ... one look at her and Ziiiippp ... it wouldn't take very long for MQ to pull that rip cord! Oh boy ... this will definitely make the best seller list.

Now tell me Nik ... which of you wants to be the alien?

R"

Rox sat back and chucked to herself as she waited for her friend's reply. It didn't take long ...

"Jesus, Rox. What have you been smoking? What ever it is, save some for me, huh? This is hysterical! Wait until Jer sees it! Shit woman! I am red to the roots of my hair right now, but -- Wow !! -- what an imagination you have, my friend.

Seeing as BG has the super powers (hearing, blinking), then she should be the alien. I'll let her know when she comes home ... just do me one favor -- when you write this story, make sure BG has REALLY long tentacles ... okay? Jeeeeesus Chrrrrrist!, I can't believe I just wrote that! Nikki - you are becoming and evil, corrupt little hussy, aren't you? Must be the influence of a certain GIRLFRIEND of mine! :-)

I'm gonna log off now before I get myself into MORE trouble! Jerri will be there to pick you up around 5:30 p.m., okay, Hon?

We're having lobster, so bring a bib! Oh, and bring the salve with you - I'll rub it into your bruises again while you're here.

I'll see you in a few....

Love you,

Nikki"

Rox smiled once more at her friend's reply. Nikki was certainly a study in contrasts, she thought. One moment she's all fire and passion, the next, she blushing like a schoolgirl. That's why I love you, Nikky-girl, Rox thought as she logged off e-mail and returned to her writing.

**********

It was nearly noon by the time Cass left Angie's diner. After eating a leisurely breakfast, she hung around and visited with the older woman for over an hour. She simply didn't want to be alone, so returning to her empty condo was not an option. When she wore out her welcome and kept Angie from her customers long enough, she headed over to the gym to work out and to get in a little Taekwondo practice. She had taken martial arts lessons for the past three years ... since Patti. She had decided she would never be defenseless again. She was an apt pupil, a quick study, and had just earned her first degree black belt a few months ago.

The gym provided Cass with a release valve. Located in the heart of San Jose, it was open 24 hours a day to cater to their Silicon Valley customers who worked odd shifts. There were many nights when Cass lay awake, nightmarish memories running through her mind, when she ultimately headed to the gym to work out her nervous energy, or to tire herself out enough to sleep. Her job required her to be alert, so the gym had been a godsend on several occasions, allowing her to get the sleep she needed to be fresh for her next flight.

Cass spent a couple of hours that afternoon working at the various nautilus stations throughout the gym, enhancing her already toned muscles. It was at times like this, when she understood Patti's drive for weight lifting. After finishing her workout, she had such a sense of euphoria from the endorphins, that she pushed her body further than ever while running through her Taekwondo routine. By the time she had finished, her aerobics wear was drenched with sweat and her damp bangs were plastered to her forehead.

Before leaving the gym, she ran into a friend she had met a few years back while Patti was still alive.

"Hi Cass!" he said. "Looks like you've had quite a workout."

Cass smiled. "Jason! Good to see you," she said, shaking his hand while running her gym towel over her forehead. "Where have you been ... I haven't seen you around the gym lately," she added.

"Oh, I've been around. Still flying?" he asked.

"Oh Yeah. I'm working for Southern Lights Airline now. No real complaints," she answered.

"Southern Lights? Where do they normally fly?" he questioned.

"Mostly on the west coast, some mid-west locations, and into Central America ... that's my normal route," Cass explained.

"Central America? Wow, that must be interesting," he exclaimed. "Why Central America?"

Cass ran the towel over her neck. "Well, I'm fluent in Spanish, and the flight schedule keeps me home on weekends ... and an occasional day off during the week, like today," she said grinning.

"Sounds like you've got it made," he replied. "Hey, uhm... would you be interested in dinner?" he asked.

Cass raised her eyebrow. Jason knew that she and Patti were a couple.

Seeing the silent question on her brow, Jason piped in, "Oh... oh, no, Cass. I'm sorry. All I want is dinner ... just between friends -- okay?"

Cass immediately relaxed and smiled at her friend. "I'm sorry, Jason. I'm afraid I haven't gotten out much since ... well, you know. Anyway, dinner sounds great. Can I meet you somewhere?" she asked.

"Why don't I pick you up at your place at ... say, 6:00 p.m., okay?" he asked.

"Okay. I'm in the Hillside Condos, unit 3, on Maycoumber Parkway. I'll see you at six," she said as she headed to the door.

"At six," he replied, raising his eyebrows up and down as he watched her retreating form.

The attendant at the desk looked at Jason and sneered. "You don't have a chance with her, you know. You won't get your hands within two feet of that gorgeous body," he said.

Jason looked at the man. "It's not her body I'm interested in," he said, grinning once more before heading to the weight room.

**********

Cass arrived back at her condo around 3:00 p.m. and headed straight for the shower. Her body felt heavy with fatigue from her extensive workout as she stood under the spray. Cass, you overdid it again, she thought.

Cassidy Conway, when are you going to learn that you can't replace sex with exercise? Enforcer scolded. Damn it girl, you do this every time. Now you'll walk around for the next several days so sore, you can't move. Shit woman ... a little sheet action is what you need. That guy you've got a date with tonight is kind of cute ... so what if the equipment is wrong -- the desired result is the same. Go for it girl!

E, please back off. Jason is just a friend. Beside, you're right -- the equipment is wrong. I'm not interested. Cass replied.

Well then it's time to break down and buy some toys, don't ya think? Enforcer suggested boldly.

Cass just shook her head and blushed at the direction her alter ego's libido was heading, as she reached forward and shut off the shower. Moments later, she was toweled dry and heading to her bed. Plenty of time to take a nap before dinner, she thought as she laid naked between the cool sheets, drifting off almost immediately into the dreamscape.

**********

Cass approached the red haired woman in the field of flowers. Walking straight up to her, she reached out and took the woman's face in her hands. Leaning in, she placed a very soft and delicate kiss on her lips. Her heart fluttered in her chest as bolts of electricity shot through her body at the contact.

"I want you," she heard herself whisper in the woman's ear.

The woman whimpered softly in response. Standing there in Cass' two-handed embrace, she closed her eyes and tilted her chin up for more, as a look of pure sensual joy crossed her features.

Cass lowered her face once more. Their lips touched, this time with more ardor, parting to admit invading tongues. Cass marveled at the wondrous taste of this angel before her as her tongue ventured deep into the red head's mouth.

Deep moans erupted from the woman's mouth as she hungry devoured the invading organ. The flowers she had been holding were suddenly forgotten as they scattered to the ground around their feet, allowing her hands to circle the taller woman's waist and pull her in close.

"Let me love you," the woman said as Cass released her mouth.

Now it was Cass' turn to moan as she threw her head back, allowing the smaller woman's probing lips access to her throat and neck. Cass' hands moved to the woman's shoulders and pulled her in tighter.

Reaching up to her neck, the red head tore open Cass' gown, exposing full, firm breasts, upon which she hungrily feasted. Cass was writhing in sexual agony as the woman suckled her breasts.

Cass suddenly felt bare hands caress her thighs. She was so caught up in her sexual haze, that she didn't feel the smaller woman lift her gown to expose the heated skin beneath.

"Oh my god!" Cass exclaimed as the woman slipped her hands inside the lace panties she wore, squeezing her cheeks firmly, and pulling her even closer.

Soon the panties were gone as was the gown, as small hands caressed the bulbous mounds, moving in circular patterns across her skin. The woman moved around Cass to stand behind her, wrapping her arms around the taller woman's waist and slipping her hands lower over her abdomen, closer and closer to the triangle of dark hair that stood guard in front of her treasure. Cass arched herself backward into the woman as her hands reached behind and pulled the woman closer.

Cass' breath caught in her throat as deft fingers slipped in between dark curls.

"Ahhhhhh" Cass yelled as she bolted awake, sitting straight up in bed, covered in sweat and strung quite tightly with sexual desire. Looking around, she frantically searched for her red haired lover. Realizing it was all a dream, she dropped her head into her hands and took several deep breaths. Oh my god, oh my god, she chanted in her mind, realizing her body needed sexual relief like a drug addict needed a fix.

Realizing too that she was drenched in sweat, Cass climbed off the bed and headed back to the shower. Standing under the cool spray, she replayed the dream over and over in her mind while her hands roamed freely over her own body. Leaning back against the shower wall, she lathered her body with soap, raising her level of sexual desire ten-fold. Finally, when the stimulation was more than she could take, she plunged her own fingers between her legs and brought herself to fulfillment, leaning heavily against the shower wall, knees week with orgasmic relief, as the red haired woman's face filled her mind and her heart.

**********

After her shower, Cass dressed for dinner then powered up her computer to see if Rox had responded to her last e-mail. She had. Double clicking on the icon next to Rox's note, she read:

"Hi Cass,

I wanted to drop you a line to say that I really enjoyed chat last night. It has been a long time since I had such an interesting discussion about my work. My normal audience isn't usually interested in such things. I would very much like to chat with you again some time.

Btw.... you have an advantage ... you know what I look like, but I am at a loss. Wanna share?

Let me know when it is convenient for you to chat again. I work out of my home, so nearly any time is okay for me. Drop me a line and let me know.

I'll talk to you later,

Rox"

Cass smiled when she read the note. Yeah, I had a good time too, she said to herself. So, she wants to know what I look like. Okay, I'll just power up the scanner and send that picture of Brian and I. Its the best one I have of myself. I hope she isn't disappointed.

Clicking on 'Reply', Cass wrote:

"Hi Rox,

I really enjoyed our chat session too. I couldn't believe how fast the time flew. I hope I didn't keep you up too late.

I'm sorry to hear that you don't have someone to discuss your work with more often. I find science fiction so captivating and stimulating. I can't imagine why someone wouldn't want to discuss it -- especially with a talented writer such as yourself.

So, you want a description of me, huh? Okay, I hope I don't disappoint you. I'm nearly six feet tall, relatively slim, somewhat muscular from working out and from Taekwondo (I earned my black belt a few months ago). I have dark hair and blue eyes. That's about it. I'm attaching a scanned photo of myself and my co-pilot so you can see for yoruself. If you need to know more, just let me know.

I too would like to chat with you again. I am finding myself very enchanted with you, Roxanne Ward. You invade my thoughts at the oddest moments. It is a welcome invasion, mind you. I have not had any real companionship since the woman I was seeing passed away nearly three years ago. I have guarded my heart relatively close since. It seems good for it to be invaded again.

Well, I'm on my way to dinner, so I will bid you adieu for now.

I am looking forward to chatting with you again. Please let me know when it is convenient for you.

Cass"

Cass hit the send button, then powered down the computer. Off to dinner, she said to herself as she grabbed a light jacket and headed out the door to wait for Jason at the curb.

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

CHAPTER XI

As promised, Jerri picked Rox up at exactly 5:30 p.m. Climbing into the car, Rox leaned over and kissed her friend hello.

Jerri immediately noticed the bruises on Rox's face and neck. Taking Rox's chin in her hand, she turned the author's head side to side. "Damn it, Rox. Why does Chris feel the need to hit you like that? One of these days, I'm going to corner the son of a bitch and return the favor," Jerri exclaimed.

"Jer, please ... let's not get started on that, okay? I'd really like this to be a nice evening," Rox said softly.

Jerri placed her hand on the side of Rox's face and looked at her affectionately. Taking a deep breath, she forced a smile and said, "All right, Rox. I'll behave ... but I meant what I said. Nikki and I love you very much and it kills us to see that bastard do this to you." Jerri saw a slight flash of anger in Rox's eyes. Throwing up her hands, she said, "All right ... all right ... enough said. Let's go have some lobster, okay?"

Jerri flashed a crooked smile at Rox, instantly dissolving her anger. "Okay," Rox replied, a smile covering her own face.

Rox talked about her new novel all the way to Jerri and Nikki's place. Like Cass, her two friends were fascinated by science fiction, and even prouder, that their friend was a highly successful sci-fi author. Rox's over active imagination never ceased to amaze Jerri as she sat and listened to the summary of Rox's new book. Rox had an unspoken agreement with her two friends to allow them beta access to her new stories before going to the editor. On more than one occasion, they had made significant observations and suggestions that greatly improved the overall story.

"So when will this one be ready for beta?" Jerri asked anxiously.

"Well, if I keep writing at my current pace, it should be done in a month or less," she replied. "Getting a little anxious, are we, Jer?" Rox teased as her friend pulled into the driveway of her home.

"Anxious isn't the word for it, Rox ... and you know it, you little tease," Jerri shot back, turning off the engine.

Rox reached over and patted the side of Jerri's face. "Patience, dear heart ... patience," she said as she reached for the door handle.

Nikki met Rox at the door, taking her into her arms as she entered the kitchen. Jerri leaned over and kissed her wife as she hugged their friend. Nikki was wearing an apron with a huge, obviously female, lobster on the front of it. The head of the lobster was missing ... to be replaced by the head of the wearer, it's claws were curled up and pinching it's own breasts. The caption below the lobster said, "Lobsters Do It In A Pinch."

Rox laughed heartily when she stood back and took a good look at her friend. "Nikki, you look like you belong at a carnival!" she exclaimed with a chuckle in her voice before adding, "So what can I do to help?"

"Well, you can set the table it you'd like. Dinner will be ready in about 15 minutes," she said as she pointed Rox in the direction of the cupboard. "Oh, by the way, did you bring the salve?" she asked.

"Yes I did. It's in my purse," Rox replied as she retrieved the necessary dinnerware and headed into the dining room.

While Rox was setting the table, Jerri came up behind Nikki as she was retrieving the butter from the refrigerator. Seeing Nikki bent over to reach the lower shelves was more than Jerri could stand. Spooning herself behind her wife, she reached around and cupped Nikki's breasts, pinching the nipples firmly, while whispering in the blonde's ear, "Can I do it in a pinch, sweetheart?"

Nikki moaned and pressed herself back into Jerri, holding onto the open refrigerator door for support just as Rox came into the kitchen for napkins.

"You'd better close that door before your body heat melts everything in there," she said dryly. Retrieving the napkins, she nonchalantly sauntered by, acting as though seeing her two friends in the midst of foreplay in front of the open refrigerator door was an everyday event.

Nikki blushed and Jerri grinned as they were caught in the act by their friend.

"That's a pretty shade of pink, Nikki!" Rox called loudly from the other room.

"Oh groan!" Nikki said, turning and burying her face in Jerri's shoulder as she died of embarrassment.

Dinner was very pleasant. The three ladies complimented each other well, all of them trying to outtalk the others. They spent a couple of hours talking about Rox's new book, and about Cass. Rox's face took on a look of utter excitement when she discussed her new e-mail friend. Jerri was very interested in this Cass Conway ...and a little wary that her friend was setting herself up for a big disappointment.

"Rox, honey, Cass lives three thousand miles away, you realize that, don't you?" Jerri pointed out.

Rox frowned. "I know that, Jer," she said, sighing deeply. "Look, we've only exchanged a few e-mails, and met in chat once. I don't know what it is about this guy, Jerri. Something has clicked between us. I'm not saying it will develop into anything more substantial, but right now, it just feels really good. I need that right now," she pointed out.

Jerri nodded her head. Reaching out, she covered her friend's hand with her own and squeezed. "Yes, you do," Jerri agreed, looking again at the bruises on Rox's face.

After dinner, the friends worked together to clean up the kitchen. When the chores were done, Nikki turned to Rox. "Okay, sweetling ... time to apply the salve. Strip!" she commanded.

Jerri raised her eyebrows at Rox and said, "Pushy broad, isn't she? She bosses ME around like that all the time too! You two go ahead, I'll pour us all a glass of wine to enjoy while we watch the movie."

Rox laughed as they went into the living room. Stripping off her T-shirt, she laid down on her stomach on the floor. Nikki straddled her friend's backside and reached over to unhook her bra, pushing it off her shoulders. Jerri came into the living room at that very moment and got her first glimpse of the damage on Rox's back. Even knowing the damage was there, she was still so shook up by what she saw, that she almost spilled the three glasses of wine on the carpet. Shaking with rage, she managed to put the wine down, then started to pace back and forth, sputtering obscenities at Chris.

"Jerri! ... Jerri!" Rox said firmly from her position on the floor.

Jerri stopped pacing and looked at her friend.

"C'mere, Big Guy ... come keep me company while your wife tortures me ... okay?" Rox asked the angry woman.

Jerri approached the prone woman and laid down on her stomach so she was face to face with Rox. They were both lying there with their arms in front of them, hands overlapped, and chins resting on top of them, faces inches apart, while Nikki worked the salve into the abused skin on Rox's back. Jerri reached out and held Rox's hand as she winced from the pressure of Nikki's hands. Nikki bent over Rox's back and whispered apologies into her friend's ear when she was done, earning her a big smile and a thank you from a grateful Rox. Nikki helped her don her T-shirt once more, tossing the bra aside, then all three women retired to the couch to watch their movie.

Jerri sat on the couch with Nikki in her arms. Rox cuddled with them, laying her head on Nikki's leg as the blonde ran her fingers through her friend's red-gold hair, until she was fast asleep. Looking down on the sleeping woman, Nikki smiled and looked up at her wife. "Poor baby," she said softly.

Jerri just nodded, then leaned in to kiss her wife. "Let's not wake her. She can stay here tonight," she said.

Nikki nodded her agreement as they gently rose from the couch. Retrieving a pillow and blanket, they worked together to make Rox as comfortable as possible before turning out the lights and heading to bed.

**********

Jason picked Cass up promptly at 6:00 p.m. in a brand new Corvette convertible.

Cass walked around the cherry red car and whistled. "Wow, Jason. You must be doing very well for yourself ... I'm sure this car didn't cost peanuts!" she exclaimed.

"Yeah, I'm not doing so bad," he said as he held her door open for her.

Sitting next to him in the car, she turned and asked, "So, just what are you doing for work these days?"

"Still working for the old man ... selling used cars," he said.

Cass turned her face to look out her window and frowned. I didn't know used cars paid so well. He's got to be making a mint to afford a car like this, she thought.

Jason bragged all the way to the restaurant about his assets ... a beach house in Malibu, stock and bonds, this new car ... If he did indeed own all of these things, he would have to be literally rolling in dough.

"Wow, I guess the used car business is more lucrative than I thought!" she exclaimed after he described his 30 foot yacht to her.

"Oh, it's not just the used cars ... I have become involved in some wise investments and business ventures," he bragged. "That's where the big money is."

"Indeed!" Cass replied, not knowing what else to say to this blow hard. She was beginning to regret going out with him. If he even suggested she hit the sheets with him, she's kick his assets good and hard.

Finally, they arrived at the restaurant, a ritzy, high visibility place with $100 dinners on the menu. Cass raised her eyebrows when he pulled the car up to the valet parking facility. Cass made good money ... more than most women her age, but never in her wildest dreams would she consider spending $100 on a simple entree, not to mention the $2,000 bottle of wine Jason ordered as soon as they were seated. Cass felt very uncomfortable all of the sudden, like something was rotten in Denmark. E, where are you when I need you... what's going on here? she asked her alter ego to no avail.

All through dinner, Jason quizzed Cass subtly about her job. At least he thought he was being subtle. He wanted to know every detail, right down to what her safety check routine was. Finally, sick of the questioning, she basically told him that the answers to most of his questions about flight schedules could be found on the company's web site. Curiously, after she shut down the inquiries, dinner ended rather quickly. The entire dinner came to $2,500, including a $300 tip for the waitress.

Cass looked at him with disgust when he made a show of tucking the tip into the waitress' cleavage. What a disgusting pig, she thought.

I'll say, Enforcer piped in. The man is a pimp! Why did you agree to go out with him anyway? the alter ego asked.

What??? You're the one who wanted me to jump into the sack with him ... so don't give me any shit about this date, you got it!!? Cass responded.

Hey, I've got needs too, you know ... If you'd only buy those toys I've been bugging you for, I'd back off! Enforcer reminded her.

E, go back into the hole you were hiding in when I needed you a while ago, okay? I can do without this kind of help, she reminded herself.

Finally, Jason and Cass were back in the Corvette and headed to Cass' condo. Pulling up in front, he reached over and shut off the engine, then turned in his seat to face her.

"So, when is your next flight?" he asked. "I'd like to take you out again."

Cass nearly choked on his cockiness. "Ah ... ah, I'm kind of booked up for quite a while. I fly to Durango for the next two days, they I have a couple of commercial flights, then....." she tried desperately to come up with excuses.

"How about next week some time?" he asked.

"Sorry, I make weekly trips to Mexico every Monday ... domestic flights, sometimes on Wednesdays, Guatemala on Thursdays ... I'm really very busy," she said.

"All right then, I'll leave my business card with you. Why don't you call me when you're free, okay?" he said, handing her his card from his father's used car business.

Cass gave him a nervous smile and simply nodded. Thanking him for dinner, she reached for the door handle to get out of the car. He grabbed her arm.

Looking over at Jason, Cass raised her eyebrows and said, "Is there a problem?"

"Can't a guy get a kiss from his date ... especially after dropping $2,500 on dinner?" he said smugly.

Cass leaned in to him so that her nose was a mere inch away from his. "You seem to have forgotten that I'm gay, Jason, and that I have a black belt in Taekwondo. Now I suggest you take your hand off me immediately - capishe!!?" she said vehemently.

Jason cringed at her words, quickly removing his hand.

Cass was out of the car in two seconds and heading to her condo as she heard Jason peal away from the curb.

"Neanderthal asshole," she muttered under her breath as she let herself into her home.

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

Continued in Part 3