Violence Warning: There is some violence and bodily injury. Nothing you haven't seen on TV

Language: Fairly mild. Again, nothing you haven't seen on TV.

Sex: This is a romantic story featuring two women. There is some sex involved but it's not too graphic. Don't read it if this will offend or if it is illegal where you live!

Underage Warning: Just to cover my butt, you should probably be eighteen to read this. All you kids out there know who I'm talking about so scat!

Personal Note: Once again, I would like to thank Helen for being my beta reader. She always points me in the right direction when I seem to be going astray. Her help and support have made me confident enough to continue with my writing efforts. This is dedicated to my first real e-pal and friend. Thanks Helen.

Part 2 (Conclusion)

Since it was so early in the day it was easy finding the movies that we wanted. We made it back to my apartment in record time so we decided to fix a pitcher of lemonade and sit out on Cory's front porch. I didn't really have a porch, just a staircase that led up to my front door. I planned on putting the lasagna in the oven around four thirty and maybe fixing a small salad but until then we were just going to sit out here and relax. It was a beautiful afternoon and there was a slight breeze; just enough to keep us cool. We were both sitting in her hanging swing enjoying the peace and quiet. I had told her in the truck that Shannon bailed out on us to go on a date and she just laughed. She said she didn't mind and hoped she had fun. I started thinking about our past conversations and realized that, while Cory seemed to know my whole life's history, I really didn't know much at all about her. She seemed to be a pro at avoiding conversations about herself. Hmm… we're going to have to fix that. I looked over at the smaller woman, "Hey Cory?"

She looked up at me. "Yeah?"

The swing kept at its gentle rocking motion. "I was just wondering why you don't have anyone special in your life?"

The way she looked at me, I thought for a minute she wasn't going to answer. After hesitating for a minute she looked away and said, "I guess I've just never found anyone I wanted to keep around." She suddenly looked back at me and grinned. "Besides, who would want a half-pint kick boxer with a warped sense of humor anyways?"

I laughed at her. "You're kidding me right? Let's see, you're smart, beautiful and funny. You have a nice apartment and most important of all, you're not violently insane. You're practically holding all the aces, you should have people lined up around the block trying to get a shot at you." Oh yeah, I finally made my cocky little friend blush. I was being careful not to use any feminine pronouns since she never actually said where her interests lay.

She laughed, "Yeah well, other than teaching my classes I really don't get out much. When I do manage to meet someone…" She looked away for a second then back at me. "Well, I don't usually let them in here." She said this last part while gently tapping her chest with her index finger, directly over her heart.

I found myself wondering if she'd been hurt by someone in the past. What could make such a wonderful woman shut people out of her heart? I looked at her curiously. "Why?"

Her green eyes suddenly looked both, sadder and older. "It's a long story, are you sure you want to hear it?"

I smiled and reached over to touch the back of her hand. "Hey, only if you feel like telling me, ok? I don't want you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable." In only a few minutes, she had changed right in front of my eyes. The only thing about the woman sitting in front of me that was still the same was her gorgeous green eyes. Gone was that cocky, self-assured imp that I had come to adore and I would have done anything to get her back.

She took a long swallow of her lemonade and began her story. "My parents were killed the year I was fifteen and my brother was nineteen. In order to celebrate their twentieth anniversary they decided to go on a second honeymoon. My dad was a pilot and a flying instructor and he owned the small plane that he used to give lessons. He loved to fly and would go on short trips whenever he had the chance so they decided to fly instead of drive to their honeymoon destination."

She stopped to take a long breath, and I wanted more than anything to move over next to her on the swing. I wanted to be close to her but I didn't know if it was to comfort her or me; I hated the thought of her hurting. After another drink of lemonade she began again. "I don't really know what happened exactly but apparently there was something mechanical wrong in the rudder section of the plane. My dad always did thorough checks before every flight but the investigators' said there was no way he could have known there would be a malfunction. Anyways, in the middle of the flight my dad lost control of the plane and they crashed and my brother and I were told that they'd both died on impact. We had no other family and since my brother was legally an adult and he had a full time job, he became my custodian rather than splitting us up and having me become a ward of the State. Neither one of us could stand to live in our house because it held too many memories, so he used a portion of the life insurance money to buy the house I'm in now." She stopped again for another drink then looked away. I had a million questions but I managed to limit myself to only one for now.

"So, you and your brother own this house?" She never mentioned before that she had a brother but then again, she never mentioned that her parents were killed when she was still so young. My heart went out to the young girl that she had been and still was even now.

When she looked back at me to answer my question she had tears in her eyes. It was then that I decided I didn't care what it looked like; she needed a friend and someone to hold her. I held out my arm, hoping she would move over next to me. It was an open invitation with no strings attached and I hoped that she would see it that way. She hesitated for a minute before sliding over and laying her head on my shoulder. It felt good to have my arm around her, like I could protect her from the world and vise versa. When she finally relaxed, she answered my question.

"No, I'm the only one who owns it; my brother Greg died four years ago."

I continued gently rocking the swing; she now had her feet tucked up underneath her on the bench. "How?" I said.

"When my brother was younger, my dad got him interested in kick boxing to give him something to do after school and to keep him out of trouble. When I got old enough I started too. We both took to it like ducks to water and by the time Greg was eighteen he was making a name for himself by winning quite a few of the amateur tournaments. He was four years older than I was so I was only competing in the junior classes but I was doing really well too. The year my parents died he had an offer made to him to join a local fighting circuit. There was fierce competition but also a lot of money involved. He had agreed to do it but almost changed his mind with the death of our parents."

She stopped again and swallowed hard, I could tell she was fighting the tears. I wish she would just let them come; she needed the release that they would give her. I just held her tight and tried to will support and understanding into her through my arms. She took a shuddering breath and went on.

"I… I was the one who convinced him go ahead with his plans. I told him that mom and dad would have wanted him to be happy. He did join and was one of the best fighters around. By the time I was twenty, I was just as well known on the circuit because I went to every one of his fights. When I got the same offer he did I was ecstatic but he forbid me to even think about it. He said it was too dangerous and that if I really wanted a career in kickboxing, I should become an instructor. I had been helping our instructor for the last three years with the younger classes and was really good at it. It wasn't what I wanted though, I wanted the glory and fame that my brother had and we ended up getting into a huge argument over it. He was still furious when he left to go to his fight that night and I was so angry with him that I stayed home. It was the first fight of his that I'd ever missed."

I felt something wet on my arm and when I looked down I realized she had tears running down her cheeks. She was crying silently the whole time she was telling her story. I reached up and gently wiped the tears away with my fingertip then grabbed her hand and lightly squeezed it to show her I was here for her.

"I… I was home alone that night when I got the phone call that said, due to a freak accident, my brother had been killed in his match. Apparently he had been distracted throughout the entire fight and his concentration wasn't what it should have been. He made a foolish move and a blow to the head from his opponent snapped his neck but it was the sheer force of the blow that actually killed him. I was devastated. The last member of my family died and it was my fault. I knew he had to fight that night and if I hadn't pressed the argument he might still be alive."

I shook my head 'no' though she couldn't see me. "No Cory, it wasn't your fault. Anything could have distracted your brother in the ring. He knew the risks involved with every fight and lived with them. You can't blame yourself for something that was ultimately his decision." I tenderly stroked her short hair and kept rocking the swing. "Is that why you became an instructor, because your brother wanted you to?"

"Well, yes and no. I really did like being an instructor but I also idolized Greg and I stubbornly wanted to follow in his footsteps. I guess it made it even worse when I realized he was right all along and I had argued with him over nothing."

I gently touched the bottom of her chin, bringing her face up so I could look her in the eye. "It wasn't over nothing Cory, it was something you thought you believed in. Don't ever regret standing up for what you believe in. I'm sure your brother would have told you the same thing if he were here today." She looked me right in the eye and the sight of those watery green pools cut straight through my heart. It was right then when I realized I had fallen for my little blonde neighbor. Damn, how could I let this happen? She's my friend and she's in need. The last things she needs to deal with right now are my feelings for her. Shit! The baggage from my love life alone would be enough to send her away screaming if she knew I was interested in her. I sighed and had to look away. I didn't want her to see the truth of my emotions written all over my face. More than anything, I didn't want to make her uncomfortable. I felt a gentle hand on my cheek and I was forced to look back into endless green eyes. My gaze was caught and I knew my secret was out; all I could do was swallow my heart back down into my chest. All she said was two words.

"Thank you."

An eternity of heartbeats later she pulled me down and gently kissed me on the lips. At first I was in shock but the tingling sensation that had suddenly made an appearance along the length of my spine made me respond. I laid one hand on her cheek and tentatively responded to her kiss. It started slow but began to escalate when I felt her tongue caress the length of my lips. I opened myself to her, allowing entry to her questing organ. A slow fire was building low in my body and by the time we broke the delicious contact our hands were buried in each other's hair. We were both flushed and breathing hard. I rested my forehead against hers but looked into her eyes to voice my doubts. "Are you sure about this?"

She actually chuckled at me. "God Chris, how could you even ask that? I've been flirting with you since we met." She shook her head and mumbled something about 'being clueless'. Hey, wasn't that what Shannon said too? This thought made me groan aloud. I hate it when my cousin was right. When I got a curious look from the blonde wrapped in my arms I had to elaborate. "I… I never knew." I looked down at her seriously. "Why me? I mean, I'm just a factory rat with a screwed up love life and the baggage to prove it. You're a beautiful woman, you could have anyone you wanted."

My heart dropped to my feet when she looked up at me and said, "Do you really mean it?"

"Uh, which part?"

She smiled, "All of it, especially about me having anyone I wanted."

I swallowed and looked away then looked back. "God yes! You're wonderful, anyone who didn't want you would be crazy."

She leaned in closer until our lips were almost touching again and I had to fight to control my breathing. The control I had maintained over my desire was fading fast and my emotions were spinning out of control. Her next words nearly stopped my heart.

"Good, I'm glad to know I can get anyone I want."

Oh great, once again I said the wrong thing. Here it comes; she's going to tell me thanks but no thanks and then go find someone better. My self-pitying thoughts couldn't have been farther from the truth though.

"That's good to know Chris, because right now I want you." She finished her declaration by closing the remaining distance between us and once again, claiming my lips. All I could do was moan into her mouth as I ran my hands down her strong back then up along her sides. When we broke the second kiss I couldn't bear to lose contact with her so I buried my face against her neck and held her tight. She had a spicy, outdoorsy scent that reminded me of cedar and berries and I took a deep breath trying to capture as much of it as I could. I raised my head a little and marveled at the texture of her silky hair against my cheek. As I slowly came out of my little bliss I could hear the sounds of life increase throughout the neighborhood. It was late enough in the day now that people were just coming home from work and school. I personally didn't care what anyone else thought of us but I really wanted to explore what we had here, and I felt that the bonding we needed to do was best done in private.

I slowly untangled myself from her body and stood up. She looked up at me confused until I held my hand out to her. "Come on, lets go upstairs and talk." I grinned at her, "We've got all the time in the world but right now I'm getting hungry. What do you say to some lasagna?"

She smiled back and allowed me to pull her to her feet. "Sure, sounds good to me." As we were waking side by side towards the stairs she leaned over and bumped her shoulder into mine. "This lasagna better be as good as you say it is or you're going to owe me another prime rib dinner."

I leaned down next to her ear and whispered in my sexiest voice, "Oh, I can guarantee you won't go away unsatisfied." I had to chuckle when I saw the blush creep up her face. Oh yeah, turning the tables on her was so much fun.

Not so idle threats

When we got upstairs she went to the bathroom to wash her face and I put the lasagna in the oven. I had just got out the ingredients for the salad when she walked into the kitchen. The tear tracks had been scrubbed from her face and from the smile she was wearing, I'd say she washed some of the sadness away too. "Hey, I'll bet you feel a little better; I like to see you smile." I went back to the refrigerator to root around a bit. "What kind of dressing do you want, Ranch or Italian?" When she didn't answer I looked back at her and saw she had that twinkle in her eyes. It was good to see that my little imp was back but I was also a little worried too. I wrinkled up my brow, "What's so funny, you don't like salad?"

She grinned at me, "Um Chris, did you know you have a little alligator head that holds your soap in his mouth?"

I smiled back at her. "Yup, that's Sam. I got him for my eighth birthday along with the snail toothbrush holder that's in the medicine cabinet." Sam was a little green plastic cartoon alligator head who's mouth opens and closes and the soap sits inside.

The little blonde just looked at me for a second then burst out laughing. "I can't believe you've kept those since you were eight years old. Ok, maybe I can. That would be so 'you' to do something like that."

I think she's making fun of me. "Hey, I love those guys! Besides, they're highly functional and there was no sense buying a new soap and toothbrush holder when I already had perfectly good ones in my possession."

She looked skeptical at best. "Ok, whatever you say. Of course you wouldn't keep them around for sentimental reasons and because they were cute and funny."

I grinned at her, "No, that's why I keep you around."

She laughed again, "I see once someone gets to know you, you come right out of that shell of yours. If I would have known a kiss was all it would take to wake up your inner turtle, I would have kissed you the day you moved in."

Inner turtle? Dammit, why was I blushing now? Maybe because I'd been having similar thoughts since the day we met too. I chuckled, "Yeah well, I would have definitely let you. Why do you think it was taking me so long to unload my truck? I kept watching you when I was supposed to be moving and you were a very distracting sight."

She shot me a mischievous grin. "I knew that, why do you think I offered to help? I saw you sneaking peeks so I thought if I was a little more up close and personal that you might give in to temptation. Besides, I wanted to show off my muscles a little and get on your good side by helping you."

I looked straight into her eyes. "I almost did more than once. Didn't you notice how I always let you walk in front of me going up the stairs?" I chuckled, "I had an ulterior motive."

She laughed and started setting the table with the dishes I had laid out on the counter. I had just finished tossing the salad when the doorbell rang. I looked over at Cory, "I'll be right back. Maybe that's Shannon bringing her date over so I can meet him."

She nodded, "Okay, I'm just going to find us something to drink."

When I opened the door I saw a deliveryman from the local flower shop holding a long narrow box. He looked up at me, yes I said up. I'm tall; remember? Anyways, he looked up at me and said, "Are you Chris Johnson?"

"Yes."

He handed me the flowers and said, "These are for you. Have a nice day." When I took the box, he turned around and trotted back down the steps towards his van.

Cory came out of the kitchen just as I finished shutting the door. "Hey, it looks like you've got an admirer. Who are they from?" She didn't have any expression on her face and I was worried that she might be mad at me.

"I don't know; I haven't looked at the card yet." I sat the box down on the coffee table and opened it. Inside, nestled in paper, were a dozen black roses along with a small card. When I opened it and read it I felt my legs go weak and had to sit down on the couch. "Oh shit!"

Chris,

I know where you live now but you won't be there long. You'll come back to me, I'll make sure of it. Don't worry baby, everyone knows restraining orders aren't worth the paper they're printed on. I'll be seeing you soon.

P.S. I hope you enjoyed the flowers. If you know what's good for you, you won't throw these ones away. I'll be watching.

Love,

Terri

Cory came over and sat down next to me. "Chris, what's wrong?" She reached down and picked up the card that I had dropped on the floor. When she read it she was ready to go ballistic. Her lips were nearly white with anger. "Shit Chris, she's gone too far now! You've got to go to the police with this, the woman needs to be put away."

"No!" She looked at me in disbelief. So I amended, "I mean no, not right now. I'll do it tomorrow morning; I don't want to ruin a perfectly good evening at home just because of her. That's exactly what she wants; she lives to make people afraid of her. Believe me, I've been on the receiving end plenty of times. I won't live like that anymore, she won't control my life."

She looked at me for a second then her features softened. "Alright Chris, we'll do whatever you want. I just want you to know that I'll be here for you, you won't be in this alone." She wrapped her arm around my waist and pulled me to her. In a quiet voice she said, "I just couldn't bear the thought of something happening to you; I really like you Chris."

After her quiet admission I turned my head and looked down at her. Our eyes met and our lips were soon to follow. The kiss lasted until both of us were panting in desperate need of air. We groaned as our tongues lost contact with each other. I couldn't help the words that came out of my mouth. "God Cor, I don't think I've ever felt this way from just a kiss."

She looked deep into my eyes. "I know exactly what you're saying, I feel the same way." Just as she leaned in for another kiss the timer went off on the oven and we both jumped. We looked at each other and started laughing.

I shook my head. "What a mood killer. As much as I hate to move I need to rescue the lasagna if I want it to be edible."

Cory opened her mouth to protest but when her stomach growled she snapped it shut again. She laughed. "Yeah, sounds like a good idea." She stood up and reached down to pull me to my feet. "Come on, let's go feed the beast."

Over dinner we talked and laughed but carefully steered clear of any conversations about my stalking ex-girlfriend. Supper was excellent if I do say so myself. Cory had just finished her third helping of lasagna and leaned back in her chair with her glass of milk. I looked over at her with a smirk on my face. "Satisfied?"

She grinned and patted her stomach. "For now."

"What do you say we clean up these dishes and go watch a few movies?" I didn't want things go too fast and I was hoping she'd feel the same way.

She looked at me and smiled, "I think that sounds like an excellent idea." She hopped up and grabbed her plate. "Come on, I'll wash since I don't know where your dishes go." I laughed and started clearing the table.

Twenty minutes later we were seated in the living room. I was leaning against the corner of the couch, with my legs stretched out along its length and she was seated between my legs with her back against my chest. At first she thought she might hurt me but I convinced her that my side hardly hurt anymore. The little gash was healing nicely and the last few days off must have given my muscles the rest they needed. My arms were wrapped around her and we had a blanket thrown over both of us. I reveled in the physical contact, she felt so good in my arms. I couldn't believe what I was feeling. I hadn't known Cory for nearly long enough but I was crazy about the woman and just couldn't get enough of her. The first movie we watched was The Sixth Sense. It was a great movie that really had us thinking at the end. When it was over, we sat in silence for a minute until Cory made me rewind it to watch a certain scene over again. She broke the silence by saying, "Wow, I never even guessed."

I had to agree with her. "Yeah, me too. What a fantastic ending." She nodded and I said, "So, are you ready for the next one?"

"Yeah, bring it on. Are you sure this is a good movie? I don't ever remember seeing any previews for it."

I laughed. "Trust me, it's a great movie. It's an older movie but it's still worth watching."

She looked over at me and wrinkled her brow. "You've seen it before?"

"Yup, about ten times."

She shook her head, "Well why did we get it then?"

I grinned at her. "Because you haven't seen it, that's why. Besides, I love this movie and I'd watch it ten more times if I could."

She laughed. "You're just a big kid sometimes, you know that?"

I just nodded and we settled in to watch The Never Ending Story. What can I say, it was about books and I love books!

When the movie was over we stayed snuggled on the couch, content. Her strong hands spent their time caressing my long fingers before moving up to my forearms. I could feel her chuckle where she leaned against my chest. "You're right, that was a great movie. I still can't believe you've seen it ten times though."

I chuckled. "That's eleven now."

She laughed and swatted my thigh. "Don't you ever change Chris; I love you just the way you are!"

We both froze when we realized what she said. My stomach had those butterflies again and my mouth was suddenly dry. This is usually the part where I want to head for the hills but strangely enough, this time I was comfortable right here.

I couldn't see her face but I felt her reach down and twine her fingers with mine. She cleared her throat, "Chris?"

I could feel my heart start racing and I was sure she could feel it too. "Do you really mean that?"

She brought my hand up to her cheek then kissed my palm. "Yes."

With one word she opened the doors to my heart. I wrapped my arms around her tight and hugged her to me as hard as I could. "Good, because I'm crazy about you too."

We stayed that way for a while. I was afraid to let her go, afraid that I would wake up and find that it was all a dream. I was conscious of the scent of her hair and it's softness against my cheek, where her head rested. I could feel the heat of her body against mine; I could even feel the muscles of her back where they rested against my stomach and chest. She was hard and soft all at the same time. I couldn't resist the urge to run my hand through her short, silky hair and kiss the side of her head. I thought she was asleep until I felt her start to turn around. I scooted down on the couch so she wouldn't be bent backwards while she was facing me. I looked into her eyes, the ones that had first stolen my soul. "Hey, what are you doing? You won't be comfortable like that."

The look of desire she sent me caused my stomach to do flips. She pressed her short muscular body along the length of mine and said, "Won't I?"

I moaned at the sudden pressure and heat against my center. I ran my hands down her back until I came to a pair of firm cheeks then gave in to my desire and pressed her tight against me. I nearly passed out when she began a slow grind with her hips. I knew right then I had completely lost myself to her and that there was no going back. My hands pulled her tighter as my own hips joined in her rhythm. We both moaned at the increased contact and I looked up into eyes that had turned deep green with passion. I could feel her smooth legs up against my own; the fact that we still had our shorts on made our motions seem that much more erotic. It was like it we were engaging in a forbidden act. "God Cor, you feel so good I don't want it to ever stop."

She leaned down and sucked on the lobe of my ear before whispering, "I know." When she moved her lips and tongue down to my neck I couldn't help the shiver that raced through my body. Her lips finally moved up to capture mine as she began to increase the pace. With our mouths locked in an intimate embrace the only sound that escaped was that of my nearly constant moans. God! I've never felt anything so good in my life. I felt a fire begin deep inside me and I knew I was close. I had to force myself to speak in real words. "Uh, god Cory, don't stop. Please don't stop, I'm so close."

She ran her tongue along my jaw line then down my neck to my pulse point. "Never love. I'll never stop, I'm taking you with me." I was nearing the edge when she recaptured my lips and increased the pressure and pace. The increased contact was too much and my body went rigid with release. When I went over the edge calling her name it only took a few more thrusts for her to follow. She collapsed on top of me and we both lay there spent. When my breathing finally calmed I ran my hands through her hair. "Cory, I love you so much. I've never felt this way about anyone before."

She looked up and gave me the gentlest of kisses. "Chris, I never thought I could love someone again; I never thought I would ever feel this kind of love at all. I love you too Chris, more than anything." She smiled, "I think I finally found someone I want to keep around."

I smiled down at her. "And I think I finally found someone I want to stay with." We both chuckled and settled back in to the comfort of mutual touch. After a few minutes she started to get up. I didn't want her to move so I pulled her back down in an embrace. "Where are you going?"

She looked sheepish. "I just remembered your side and I didn't want to hurt you."

I just held on to her even tighter and winked. "Did I sound like you were hurting me?" She shook her head no. "I'd tell you if you were hurting me and right now you definitely aren't. As a matter of fact, you feel so good I could fall asleep just like this."

She relaxed back into my arms when I pulled her down and kissed her. I knew I was too tired to move for a while so I retrieved the fallen blanket off the floor and pulled it back over us. All the weeks' troubles were forgotten as we fell asleep in each other's arms, satisfied with our newfound love.

The Morning After

The next morning I was awakened by an unidentifiable sound. I turned my head and looked over the back of the couch to the clock on the wall; it said ten o'clock. Jesus, where did the morning go? I couldn't believe Cory was still sleeping but I was going to have to wake her soon. Her body lying on top of mine was causing the most unpleasant pressure in my bladder. I turned my head back toward the TV and the sight of a smirking Shannon kneeling a foot away almost made me pee my pants. I jumped and inadvertently woke Cory. "Shit Shannon, you shouldn't sneak up on people like that! I thought you weren't coming over until 3 o'clock." I narrowed my eyes, "How did you get in here anyways?"

She kept right on smirking but added a laugh for good measure. "I thought I'd stop on my way home. And for your information, the door was unlocked." She looked at a sleepy tousled Cory and smiled. "Must have been too busy to lock it, huh?"

I could feel myself blushing. I'm going to kill her! Family or no family, she's gone too far this time. Before I could say anything Cory drawled, "Yeah, I had her pretty occupied last night. Poor Chris was so exhausted when I was finished she must have forgot all about it."

Poor Chris? What was I, some charity case who couldn't fight her own battles? I was ready to protest my exclusion to the conversation when the fight was suddenly taken out of me by the feeling of warm breath against my neck. Cory's tongue caressed the ridge of my ear and she said, "Right Chris?"

I momentarily forgot about my cousin and the pressure on my bladder as I moaned my response. "Uh huh."

When I managed to open my eyes, the sight of my blushing cousin was the icing on the cake. I knew I made the right choice with Cory; anyone that can make my cousin blush can't be all that bad. Shannon threw herself into the chair next to the couch. "God you two, I wish my date had gone like that!" She smirked at me. "I guess I don't need you to fill me in on the details, do I?"

I threw the pillow at her that had been resting behind my head and growled, "Don't you have someplace else you have to be?"

She settled back into the chair and put her feet up. "Nope, not at all, why?" She looked at Cory who was still half asleep. "Got someone, I mean, something you have to do today?"

Suddenly I remembered the night before and the flowers. I looked down at a, now wide awake, Cory and knew that she had remembered too. "Shit!"

Shannon put her feet down and sat on the edge of the chair with concern written all over her face. "What? Chris, what's going on?"

As Cory and I untangled ourselves from the couch my full bladder reminded me again of its presence. "Uh, Cory could you fill her in? I really need to use the bathroom."

She patted my knee. "Sure Chris, go ahead. I'll bring her up to speed."

On the way back from the bathroom I grabbed a glass of water for Cory just in case she was thirsty. Shannon looked up at me and I could tell she was worried. "Chris, what are you going to do?" She ran her hands through her dark hair. "Shit, I always knew that woman was trouble. I wish you would have listened to me in the beginning."

I sat down next to Cory and handed her the water; she smiled in appreciation. I looked over at Shannon and sighed. This was the last conversation I wanted to have. "Dammit Shannon, I don't want to go into that right now. I can't change the past, only deal with the here and now."

She looked down. "I'm sorry Chris, I didn't mean to go off on you like that; I'm just worried about you. I know how crazy that bitch is and I don't want to see you hurt."

Cory reached over and took my hand and looked at Shannon. "No one's going to hurt her Shan, I promise you!" She turned to look at me and her fierce expression softened a little. "As long as I'm here, nobody will hurt you Chris." When I saw the love shining in her eyes, I knew my protector was back.

"I know Cor, thank you." I leaned down and kissed her to show I meant it.

We were interrupted when Shannon cleared her throat. "As much as I hate to disturb your little love fest, don't you have to go down to the police station?"

I looked over at her and smirked. "What's the matter, jealous?" I had to laugh at the look on her face. "Aw, poor Shan. Your hot date with John wasn't all that hot, huh?"

She sighed and shook her head. "Another dud. I swear you can tell we're related Chris. You get all the psychos, with the exception of Cory of course, and I get the minute men." She suddenly looked over at a grinning Cory and licked her lips. "Hmm, maybe I should switch to women."

Hey! What's she think she's doing? I growled, "Don't even think about it you little cock-blocker."

When both women looked at me with raised eyebrows I felt my face turn red. "I uh, ah, I mean, it's uh, just a figure of speech I picked up from the guys at work." I glared at my cousin when I heard her snicker. "She's mine, find your own."

Cory started laughing. "God Chris, calm down. What am I, your chew toy?"

I wiggled my eyebrow at her. "That depends, do you want to be?" Of course this set Shannon off as well and I couldn't help but join them. It felt good to laugh, especially with the two people I cared about the most.

When everyone finally calmed down Shannon stood up. "As much as I'd like to stay Chris, I really need to go home and get some sleep." She came over and gave me a hug and looked me right in the eyes. "I want you to call me as soon as you know more from the police, ok?"

"Yeah Shan, I will. You have my word on it. Now get home and get some sleep."

She walked over to Cory and hugged her as well, much to Cory's chagrin. She leaned down and whispered, "You take care of her for me, ok?"

Cory gave her a serious look. "You can be sure of it. I told you I wouldn't let anyone hurt her and I meant it."

She smiled "Thanks Cory, I knew I could count on you. It really means a lot to me, she's my best friend you know?"

Cory reached up and gave her shoulder a little squeeze. "You don't have to worry about a thing, she's got me to watch out for her now. That bitch doesn't stand a chance."

My cousin nodded, "I know and thank you." She gave me another hug and walked back to the door. "I'll see you two later."

When Shannon was gone I looked back at Cory. I was a little nervous because I knew I had to go down to the police station but I didn't want to go alone. Everything was so new between us though, I didn't know what to expect. "I uh, have to get ready to go." I felt my shyness come back full force. This must be part of that 'inner turtle' thing Cory was talking about. "Uh, did you want to come with me?"

She walked over and took my hands, kissing them both. "Do you think you could stop me?"

I looked down at her, "Do you think I would want to?"

I don't think I'd ever had anyone look at me with as much love in their eyes as Cory was showing me right at that moment. I was at a complete loss for words so I did the only thing I could think of, I pulled her close and kissed her. I wanted to tell her how much I loved her and needed her but most of all, how thankful I was that we had found each other. When the kiss ended I kept just kept holding her tight and laid my cheek against the top of her forehead. "Thank you."

She was rubbing my back in slow circles when she turned and kissed my neck. "No, thank you." She looked up at me. "Chris, I never knew how lonely I was until I met you. You came in and filled the hole in my heart that I didn't know even existed, and I don't know what I ever did to deserve you."

I looked at her and smiled, "Ha! I think we deserve each other, don't you? After all who else is going to put up with a cocky little kick boxer and a six foot bookworm?"

She tilted her head to the side and tried to hold back a laugh. "Well… when you put it that way." Finally she couldn't hold it in any longer and burst out laughing. "Its no wonder I love you, you always know what to say to make me feel better."

Was she talking about me? No way, I never know what to say! I looked down at her with wrinkled brows and when I saw her beautiful face with tears of laughter coursing down her cheeks, I knew what I thought didn't matter. As long as she liked what I had to say I would be happy. I smiled, "I love you too Cor. Now come on, we both need showers before we go."

She looked at me and wiggled her eyebrows. "Want a little company during your shower?"

I froze and knew I had that deer-in-the-headlights look on my face. Did I mention I was a little body shy? Well I lied; I'm a lot body shy. I managed to squeak out, "Uh, naked and everything?"

She laughed, "Well… that's usually how it works." She must have read the panic in my face because she put her hand and laid it against my cheek. "Hey, what's the matter? I was only kidding."

I knew I couldn't lie to her and now she was going to think I was some kind of head case. I had to look away. "I um, I'm really shy."

She turned my head back to face her. "Even after what we did last night?"

I nodded, "Especially after what we did last night." When she looked confused and had to explain. "Before, I wouldn't have cared but now I really care about what you think." I made a face. "Last night happened so fast we never even got our clothes off. I guess I'm just really self-conscious of my body and I don't want you to be disappointed. I mean look at you, you're in great shape!"

She chuckled at me and pulled me down for a quick kiss. "Believe me Chris, you have nothing to worry about. Looks are only part of the package that draws people together, part of the attraction. But if I didn't like what I saw, last night would have never happened."

Huh? Was she only using me for my body? I pulled back a little. "I don't understand. Are you saying that looks mean so much to you that if you didn't like mine we would have never made love?"

She shook her head and laughed again before pulling me back towards her. "Come here you! Of course that's not what I'm saying! What I meant was that last night I wanted you so much I couldn't keep my hands off you. If I had had a little more control I would have preferred to wait until after we'd known each other a little longer."

Mollified, I smiled at her. "Thanks, Cor."

"For what?"

"For knowing what to say to make me feel better and for wanting me so much." I pulled away and looked over at the clock on the wall. "Come on, now we definitely have to get moving."

Right at that minute her stomach growled and she laughed. "Do you think we'll have time to stop for lunch before we head to the station?"

I looked down at her, still growling, stomach and said seriously, "I think we better. That sounds dangerous."

Her eyes twinkled and she swatted me on the arm. "Get in there and take your shower smart ass. I'll be back up here in half an hour."

The Hero In You

By three o'clock that afternoon we had finished all our errands and found ourselves back at the house. We had dropped off the movies and grabbed a bite to eat before heading over to the police department. Once there, we got an hour's worth of run around before leaving disappointed. Apparently the note was too vague for them to justify bringing her in and since she hadn't actually come near me, she didn't break the restraining order. Lucky me, because the hospital had evidence of her past violence against me, they said they'd look into it. What it boiled down to though was that she was still going to be out there running around.

As consolation for a useless trip we stopped for ice cream and a walk through the park before heading back to the house. Once there, we decided to go our separate ways. She said she wanted to work out for a few hours and I wanted to do some laundry. That was one of the perks of this apartment, it came with a washer and dryer as part of the furnishings. Hey, I wasn't about to complain. After a few minutes of heavy kissing we separated. I was breathing hard and it took me a minute before I could speak. "Cor, if you don't leave now, I'll never get my laundry done. Besides, I thought you wanted to go work out?"

She winked at me, "Sex is the best work out there is." We came together and kissed again before she pulled away groaning. "You're right, we've got to stop or we'll never get anything done today." When I laughed and walked her to the door she sighed and grinned ruefully. "It looks like I've got some excess energy to burn off." The door was opened and another quick kiss was exchanged. Cory looked back at me. "I'll see you in a few hours?"

"You'd better!"

She grinned at me before turning and trotting down the steps and heading into her apartment. God, I love that woman! She's everything that I never knew I was looking for and I never planned on letting her go. I went over and turned on the stereo, knowing that Cory would be doing the same in her basement. Then I remembered seeing her working out the day before and I almost lost my resolve and went down stairs to watch her. Stop it woman, you've got work to do and so does she! Give the woman a little breathing room. After mentally chastising myself I sighed and headed off to call my cousin and start the laundry.

After ranting to Shannon about the uselessness of the justice system I got to work on my laundry. I had just started my last load and was busy hanging clothes in my closet when I heard something behind me. I started to turn around thinking it was Cory but all I saw was a glimpse of Terri's face before I felt excruciating pain on the back of my head and everything went dark.

When I woke up I found myself on my back, tied to my bed with duct tape. A quick glance at my clock told me I'd only been out for about twenty minutes. I heard a voice and looked over to see Terri talking to herself while carving on my dresser with some sort of hunting knife. For one stupid second I was worried about my security deposit since the dresser wasn't really mine. I shook my head trying to clear away the cobwebs and groaned when I became aware of the sharp pain at the base of my skull and the throbbing that had begun. Jesus, what the hell did she hit me with, a sledgehammer? My groaning finally got Terri's attention and she walked over to the bed.

She grinned at me and it gave me the shivers. "So, my love is awake I see. Good, I wouldn't want you to miss anything." She reached down and caressed my hair, "I'm sorry I had to hurt you but you gave me no choice. You never give me a choice; sometimes I think you like it when I hurt you."

I jerked my head away from her touch and groaned again at the pain. I managed through gritted teeth, "Go to hell!" All I could think about was Cory and I suddenly wished, more than anything in the world, that she were here. When I felt the cold knife against my throat, I knew I was going to die.

The woman actually giggled maniacally. I didn't know anyone, outside of the movies, really did that. "Uh, uh, uh… you shouldn't talk like that to the one you love."

I knew she'd fallen off the deep end so I forced a smile and tried to play her game. "I'm sorry Terri, I didn't mean it." I tried to get on her good side. "You don't have to tie me up, really. I realize now how much I love you and would never leave you again." For a second she pulled the knife back and I thought she was going to believe me. Then she narrowed her eyes and the knife came back against my throat, harder than before. Hard enough that I could feel a little trickle of blood run down my neck.

"You're lying! I saw you kissing your little bitch this morning in your doorway. I know she stayed here all night too." She laughed then crawled up on the bed and straddled my hips. The knife never even wavered through all of her movements. She began grinding her center into mine and said, "So, was she as good as me Chris, can she satisfy you as well as I can? I guess I'll just have to prove it to you so don't move an inch, this won't hurt a bit."

I don't know if it was the knife or the hip motions but the freak was actually getting herself off. All I could feel was fear and loathing so I shut my eyes trying to block it out. Suddenly I felt the knife press harder into my skin and I gasped and looked at the woman looking down at me.

She was furious, I could see it in her eyes. "No! I want you to look at me so you know who it is that gives you the most pleasure." She viciously ground against me and I involuntarily winced. This only seemed to turn her on more and she laughed at my discomfort. Between the throbbing in my head and the stinging at my throat, I could barely think anymore. I just wanted it to end and to be held in Cory's arms again. I felt disgusted and used and I couldn't help the tears that started to run down my cheeks. Both of us froze when we heard the stereo shut off and Cory's voice calling my name. The knife pressed harder against my throat.

Terri whispered, "One word and you're both dead, I mean it. She grabbed the duct tape off the nightstand next to the bed; she'd set it there after tying me up with it. After ripping off a large piece and covering my mouth she went over and hid behind the door. I was frantic, I knew Cory would come in any second and there was no way to warn her. I pulled at my bonds desperately trying to get free. When Cory walked through the door and saw me she immediately started forward; my eyes went wide when I saw Terri sneaking towards her. When Cory saw the look on my face and heard the noise behind her she spun around and kicked outward. Terri was fast though and danced back before the kick could do anymore than graze her stomach.

She laughed again and I knew she was crazy. "So, you're the feisty little bitch that thinks she's good enough for my Chris. Well you're not! She's mine and when I take care of you, I'll prove it to her."

I was scared for Cory's life but all I could do was watch helplessly. Cory tried to reason with her, I think for my sake. She slowly moved forward with her hands held up in front of her, palms facing out. "Come on Terri, you don't really want to do this. Think of Chris, do you really think this is what she wants?"

Terri screamed, "I don't care what that little slut wants! I knew she was cheating on me and now I'm going to end it." She lunged forward and managed to slice Cory across her left forearm. Cory just danced back and narrowed her eyes. "Believe me Terri, you don't want to start something that I guarantee I'll finish. Put the knife down and I won't hurt you."

My ex laughed, "Yeah right! You and what army, little girl?"

Cory moved so fast, all I saw was a blur and I knew that Terri wasn't expecting in. She kicked out and knocked the knife from Terri's hand before landing another in her stomach. She then proceeded to pummel the woman until she lay moaning on the floor. I could see my love standing over the fallen woman, trembling with barely controlled rage. "You won't ever hurt her again or I swear I'll kill you!" All I could do was whimper around the gag. When she heard me she ran over to the bed and knelt beside me. She stroked my hair and carefully removed the tape covering my mouth. "It's ok Chris, everything's going to be ok." It was all too much for me and once again the tears started to fall.

She went over and got the scissors off my dresser and cut the tape on my wrists and ankles. As I gingerly started removing it from my skin I remembered the woman on the floor. Cory was busy tying her up with the same tape she used on me; it was fitting I guess. "Cory, we have to call the police." I looked down at her and swallowed. "Could you do it please?"

She stood and walked over to me and gently touched my cheek. "Of course I will." She had tears in her eyes when she saw the cut on my neck. "I broke my promise Chris, I let her hurt you."

I grabbed her hand and kissed her palm. "You didn't let her do anything Chris. You saved my life and don't you ever forget it." I pulled her down and kissed her for all I was worth trying to make her believe me. When the kiss ended and she looked in to my eyes, I knew she saw the truth there. "Now go on, make that call. I don't want her near me any longer than she has to be."

She just gave me a little smile and said, "Alright, I'm going." When she got to the doorway she turned around. "I love you Chris, don't you ever forget it."

I smiled back at her. "Never."

The Ever After

One month later found everyone safe and happy. The only downer was that Terri had been sent to an institution under the insanity clause rather that be sentenced to prison where she belonged. Oh well, I could always hope she became a candidate for electroshock therapy. After all, another person couldn't possibly be more deserving. Terri left us with a few small reminders of that Sunday. Cory only received the small cut on her forearm and it didn't even need stitches. I, on the other hand ended up with a concussion and more time off work. It was time well spent with Cory though, so it was ok.

I was singing along to the radio on my way home from work. It was Friday night and Cory said she would have a surprise for me when I got home. We'd been seeing each other the entire time and I knew she was 'the one'. We didn't want to rush things so we slept alone throughout the week. Friday, Saturday and Sundays we took turns staying at each other's apartments. Like they were that far away from each other. Cory had been hinting that someday she would like to remodel the house back into a single unit. I guess she had it made into two separate apartments when her brother died because it was just to big for her and it gave her extra income to play with. I wasn't really sure what to think about her idea. I mean after all the running I'd done in my life I think I finally found someone I wanted to make a permanent commitment to. I was just a little bit insecure though; worried that Cory wasn't ready for such a big step. When I pulled into the driveway I saw Cory's Jimmy in it's parking space and smiled. I grabbed my lunch box and ran up the steps to my apartment. When I was walking through the kitchen I saw a note on the table.

Chris,

Don't forget about your surprise tonight. Go ahead and grab your shower then come down stairs.

Love,

Cory

I smiled at the note. She was so thoughtful and caring sometimes that it amazed me that I'd ever found someone like her. I put my lunchbox away before heading into the bathroom and stripping out of my clothes. I had just gotten under the hot water when I felt a cold draft from the bathroom door opening. For a second, fear coursed through me but it immediately disappeared when I heard Cory's voice. The incident with Terri still shook me up a bit but I was getting better.

"Chris?"

"Yeah, Cor?" She didn't answer so I wasn't sure what she wanted. I had just closed my eyes and stuck my head under the spray when I felt a pair of strong arms encircle my waist. At first I jumped then I moaned when I felt her muscular body pressed up against me. My breath caught in my throat when I felt her hands begin to wander. "Co…Cory, what are you doing?"

I felt my knees go weak when she licked along my spine and said, "What's the matter, don't you like it?"

I moaned again when I felt her hands move up to caress my breasts. "God yes!"

By now I was really turned on, no one had ever been able to get me this hot as fast as Cory could. I was surprised at my own reaction this time though, I was still dealing with my modesty issues and until now, had balked at bathroom encounters or anything well lit for that matter.

I was rapidly getting lost in the sensations but was still able to move my hands back to her hips and pull her against me even harder. By the time she started to grind into me I was practically whimpering. Her hands continued their sweet exploration and I was helpless with desire. I leaned my head back against the top of her shoulder and she whispered seductively in my ear.

"I love the way your body feels against mine Chris. I love the feel and taste of you and the little whimpering sound you make when I'm loving you."

I couldn't take it any more, I had to turn around and see her. With extreme effort and will power I stilled her hands and moved them away from my body. I slowly turned around in her embrace and we both moaned at the feeling of our wet bodies sliding against each other. By now I was so turned on that I didn't care anymore that I was naked. I stepped back and looked down at her gorgeous body. Licking my lips I whispered, "I want you Cory."

Smoldering green eyes looked up at me with desire and we stepped together once again. When our lips met in a sensuous caress I felt like I'd come home. I knew this was where I belonged for the rest of my life and all I could do was hope she felt the same way. When I slowly pulled away from the kiss it was Cory who whimpered. Time seemed to stand still while we were under the healing spray of hot water. We continued back and forth in our loving ministrations, both giving and receiving pleasure. In the end, we went over the edge together, collapsing into the bottom of the tub. I gently pulled her on top of me and whispered my love into her ear while our breathing slowed. "I love you Cory, I'll always love you. You're my life now and the center of my happiness."

Sated green eyes looked at me. "I love you too Chris and I'll always be here for you." She chuckled, "I don't think I can move but we have to get out of this shower before the water gets cold." She slowly stood up on wobbly legs and reached for my hand to pull me up. "Come on, let's get finished here. I've still got a surprise waiting downstairs."

I grinned at her, "Oh, I don't know… I kind of liked the one I just got."

She shook her head ruefully and swatted me on the butt. "That didn't go at all the way I planned. I was supposed to seduce you, not have us seduce each other."

I caressed her cheek and kissed her softly on the lips. "There's nothing wrong with seducing each other Cor. We're partners in this, where you go, I go."

She smiled, "Sometimes I just like to take turns leading the dance." I felt my desire start to rekindle when she winked at me and said, "And next time it'll be my turn." I groaned and licked my lips. It was a good thing the shower was getting cold because I'm definitely going to need it.

We managed to finish the shower and I was amazed how at ease I felt now around Cory. It was like that one act of intimacy in the shower opened up a side of me that I didn't even know I had. I didn't feel quite as shy and awkward standing in front of her while I was getting dressed. Any lingering doubts I may have had concerning Cory's appreciation of my body were washed away by the smoldering looks she was giving me. By the way my body was responding to the heat of her gaze, I'm really not sure how we ever made it back down to her apartment.

When we got downstairs she led me to the living room and and sat me down on the couch before looking at me and smiling. "Wait here for a minute, I'll be right back."

Of course I was going to lean back against the couch like the patient little girl that I was, not! I got up and prowled around the living room, trying to figure out what she had planned. I suddenly realized how hungry I was and hoped her surprise had something to do with dinner. Cory came back out a few minutes later with a huge grin on her face and a handkerchief in her hand. "Ok, all set."

I looked down at the handkerchief suspiciously. "What's that for?"

She smirked, "You're going to wear it."

I raised my eyebrow; I learned that trick from my cousin. "I am?"

The little imp kept smirking; the eyebrow didn't even faze her. "Yup, or else you don't get your surprise."

I sighed, I knew when I'd been beat. "Alright, let's get it over with." When she came over to put on the blindfold I mumbled under my breath, "This better have something to do with food, I'm starving!"

She chuckled, "You'll see!"

When she walked me through the door into the dining room, the first thing that hit me was the smell of food. Ooh, goody! I took a long, appreciative sniff. "Hmm… Chinese. Ok, can I take off the blindfold now?"

She laughed, "You're so impatient! Ok, hold still." She reached up to remove the blindfold but before she untied it she caressed my cheek with the palm of her hand. I felt her lean in close and kiss me before finally taking it off. It took a few moments for my eyes to adjust but when they did I was speechless. She had set the dining room table for a romantic dinner for two. She had candles lit around the room in wall sconces and two sitting in the middle of the table. Our seats were across the corner of the table from each other and she had Sarah McLachlan playing softly on the CD player in the corner.

I turned to her amazed. "You did all this for me?"

She smiled. "Yeah, I wanted to do something special and romantic."

I grabbed her hands and brought them to my mouth, lightly kissing her fingers. "Thank you." Then I grinned at her, "Can we eat now?"

She laughed, "You'd think you're the one with the bottomless stomach!" She walked over and pulled out a chair for me. She can be so romantic when she wants to be.

I walked over but before I sat down I winked at her. "Yeah well, since I met you my appetite has increased by leaps and bounds. I just can't seem to get enough." Hah, got her again! My little imp is blushing; what's good for the goose is good for the gander. Now where did that come from? I mentally shook my head and looked at the selection in front of me; my mouth was already starting to water. She had all my favorites mixed with her own and it provided a nice balance. It was almost like she was creating a tribute to the way we complimented each other as a couple. We'd only had Chinese a few times in the last month so she must have called Shannon to find out everything I liked. I looked at all the food in front of me and sighed. "I don't even know where to begin."

She stood and picked up my plate. "That's what I'm here for, just think of me as your waiter for the night." She proceeded to put a little of everything on my plate then sat it in front of me. "Now, what would you like to drink?"

I looked at the romantic setting in front of me and knew my request would be foolish. I mean really, who drinks milk when they're eating a candlelit dinner for two? "I'll just have whatever you're having."

She smiled at me, "I'll be right back."

When she disappeared into the kitchen I couldn't help but wonder what she was up to. We'd been seeing each other for a month but I knew it wasn't that. We both agreed that we weren't going to celebrate stupid things like one-month anniversaries. My curious musings were cut short when she returned carrying two cobalt blue wine glasses. When she sat them down on the table I realized they were both full of milk. I looked up at loving green eyes. "You know me so well, don't you?"

She looked at me seriously for a second and said, "I'd like to think so."

I smiled at her, "Oh you do, trust me. We've shared so much with each other over the last month that I don't think anyone knows me as well as you do, including Shannon."

She winked at me, "That's good to know. Now come on, let's eat before the food gets cold."

Dinner was excellent; I don't think I've ever had so many different Chinese dishes in one sitting. She even had homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting for desert. This actually surprised me; I just never quite pictured her as a baker. "You never told me you baked!" I managed to mumble around my second heavenly bite of cake. Yeah, talking with my mouth full was bad manners, so what. It tasted so good I didn't care about manners; I was ready to make a pig of myself.

She grinned at me after washing down her own bite with a swallow of milk. "Yeah well, I wanted to surprise you."

All I could do was keep eating, occasionally moaning my pleasure. So sue me, it was the best carrot cake I've ever had but best of all it was made by my little green eyed imp. I think I finally found a winner in the girlfriend department. I still shudder when I think about Terri but I make myself feel better by imagining her wrapped in a straight jacket, watching Loony Tunes on a little black and white TV. One could dream, right?

When I was done eating I tried to help her clear the table but she wouldn't let me. "No, you just sit right there and let me get everything cleaned up. Let me just put this stuff in the dishwasher then I'll be right back."

Now I knew something was up so I just sat in my chair and fidgeted. I was kind of worried; why was I getting the royal treatment? My insecurities kept whispering to me that she was getting ready to dump me but I knew Cory, and she wouldn't do that. Five minutes later she came back into the dining room and knelt down in front of me. When I saw a little box in her hand I suddenly got a clue. My heart started racing and those damned butterflies had taken over my entire body. She sat the box down on the floor and took my hands into hers. I knew she was nervous as soon as she touched me; I don't know whose hands were shaking more, hers or mine. She looked up at me with shining green eyes and cleared her throat.

"Chris, since the death of my family I never really gave much thought to my life and what I wanted out of it. I never really thought about being alone. About a year ago I finally realized how empty my life was but didn't know why. Six months ago I realized how empty my heart was but didn't know why." She kissed my hands and I saw tears in her eyes. "Chris, a month ago I finally figured out why. When you came into my life I felt complete and I never want to lose that feeling for as long as I live." When she let go of my hands and reached down for the box, I felt a lump form in my throat and knew I had tears in my eyes too. She opened the box and took out a delicately engraved gold band with a pair of inset diamonds. "Chris, you have gained a permanent place in my heart and now I want you to have a permanent place in my life. This ring belonged to my mother and I want you to have it, knowing you'll always have my love."

I didn't know what to say. She was waiting expectantly for some sort of answer but I could only sit there stunned. Now is the time that the urge to flee would normally be rearing its ugly head but that urge disappeared a month ago. I looked down into pools of love and devotion and knew I'd never go anywhere. Through my tears, I managed to nod my head and say, "Yes." When she finished sliding the ring on my finger I grabbed her and pulled her into my arms. We both held on as tight as we could until I pulled back to look deep into her eyes. "I love you so much Cory, I'll never go anywhere. You're my heart, my soul and my future." When my lips touched hers I tried to convey every emotion that was coursing through me. Through that small connection, I tried to show her everything I am, and all that we could be together.

When we finally pulled apart for air Cory grinned at me and stood up. She held out her hand and said, "We're in this together; we'll hold each other's futures. When I let her pull me to my feet she chuckled and I got that familiar head tilt.

I looked down at her and wrinkled my brow. "What?"

She smirked and said, "Kind of gives new meaning to the saying 'Love Thy Neighbor', doesn't it?"

I laughed and swatted her on the arm. "Somehow I don't think that's what they meant." Then I grabbed her hand and we walked out of the dining room, and into whatever our future together might hold.

The End

11/12/00

Any comments, questions, gripes or suggestions can be sent to truthfulmuse@yahoo.com. I hope everyone enjoyed my latest attempt at short fiction. Sorry folks, this is a single story and there will be no sequels. Now that I've finished with this one I can work on one of the others I've got started. I can only go where my muse leads me; hopefully it'll be in the right direction.

Kelly