Part X

Ashley used her foot to slide the glass door open that led out to her back yard. She stepped out and since her hands were full, she managed to slide the door shut with her foot again.

"Here." Katia got up from resting on the swinging chair and she helped her girlfriend with the two drinks. She took them then placed them on the hunter green table that was to the right of the swing.

The trooper took her seat from earlier, which was on the right side of the swing. When Katia came back around, she patted her lap at her.

The young woman grinned but sat down beside Ashley then shifted around until she was laying down, her head in Ashley's lap. She adjusted her legs so that they were hanging off the edge of the swing.

They were both surprised this morning when they stepped outside to find it wasn't as humid as yesterday. There was actually a breeze too so the couple decided to take advantage of the weather. They peacefully sat outside in Ashley's backyard where nobody would see them together.

"I really need to do something with this yard," Ashley decided aloud. She stretched out her right leg and began swinging them back and forth.

Katia sighed contently and closed her eyes. She enjoyed the long fingers working through her hair.

"I was thinking about a deck," added Ashley.

"Mmm," muttered Katia.

"Or maybe more of garden patio thing." The trooper considered it in her mind but then she frowned. "But then I'd have to maintain the garden."

"Mmmm."

Ashley peered down at her girlfriend, a smirk on her face at seeing Katia's peaceful expression. "Or maybe I'll build a lesbian dance club."

"Mmhmmm."

Ashley rolled her eyes.

Katia repeated Ashley's words in her head. Her eyes fluttered opened. "A lesbian dance club? What?"

The state trooper's body shook with laughter and she shook her head. "You're not paying attention."

"I am to," argued the small woman. She closed her eyes again. "You want to build either a garden with a patio or a deck." She was quiet for a few seconds. "I don't think a deck would be good."

"What do you suggest then?" Ashley licked her lips and waited for the stellar suggestion.

"A pool with a big patio."

"I am not doing a pool!" Ashley huffed before she picked up her glass of ice tea. "There's no way I am maintaining that thing."

"I'll maintain it."

Ashley had her glass to her lips but she muttered, "Yeah right you will."

Katia waited a heartbeat, a heavy grin on her face. "I maintain you pretty well."

The trooper suddenly choked on her drink and desperately tried to hold the tea in her mouth. She knew Katia wouldn't appreciate a sudden sprinkler of ice tea over her.

Katia could tell her girlfriend was controlling herself. She opened one eye, her grin now a full smirk. "Gotcha." She closed her eye when Ashley was finally able to swallow down her drink.

Ashley set the glass back down on the table. "No pool."

"Fine," muttered the college student. "Just do a patio." She drummed her fingers over her stomach where her shirt had pulled up to reveal her lower abdomen. "Not like I want to moonlight skinny dip with you anyway."

Once again Ashley found herself rolling her eyes. "We can do that anywhere."

"But not here," reminded Katia.

Ashley bent down as far as she could and she stared down until green eyes opened up to her. "You're driving me crazy, K," she growled.

Katia remained still and never said a word but her eyes were twinkling.

The trooper huffed and straightened back up. She went back to playing with Katia's soft, blond hair. "What you want to do today?"

The college student really considered the question.

Ashley began to wonder if she was going to get any answer.

"I'm not sure… this is a good start so far." Katia swung her feet some then stopped when it distracted Ashley from swinging them. "You have anything in mind?"

"Not really," confessed the older woman. "Did you like the movie last night?"

"Yeah I did actually. It was different than the other Batman movies."

"It was," quietly agreed the trooper. "Although I do like anything by Tim Burton."

"The first two Batmans were Tim Burton right?"

"Mmmhmmm." Ashley touched her glass. "The others that followed weren't."

Katia lightly snorted. "The later Batmans were awful." She opened her eyes just as she saw Ashley drinking more of her tea. She then caught sight of a drop of condensation building at the edge of Ashley's cup. She closed her eyes when the drop freed from the glass and came down.

Ashley set the glass back then saw how Katia's face was crinkled up. She quickly figured out the issue so she carefully wiped the water off Katia's nose before it trailed any further.

"How's your mom?" Katia rubbed her nose to dry it quickly.

"She's good."

"I haven't seen her in months."

Ashley's chest puffed out as she considered it. "Since Thanksgiving actually."

"I know," murmured Katia. She then opened her eyes, they were dusty with confusion. "Did you tell her about us?"

The trooper peered down. "Yeah I think so."

"What'd she say about that?"

Ashley kept a serious face as she replied, "She asked why I couldn't pick somebody else more mature."

Katia's jaw went slack but she snapped it shut. Her eyes narrowed very quickly when she picked up at that glint in those indigo eyes. "She did not say that. Your mom liked me a lot."

Ashley held still and stoic. She dared Katia to call her bluff.

Katia's eyes slightly widened back out. "She really didn't say that, did she?"

The trooper was absolutely dying inside from winning the bluff yet she remained emotionless on the outside. "She did decide you were an improvement compared to Laurel."

Katia didn't drop her gaze from Ashley's because she knew something wasn't right. She searched Ashley's face completely and saw no deception however her instincts said otherwise. Then it occurred to her that Ashley was a state trooper and perfectly trained to be deceptive plus it was a natural skill to Ashley. "You're lying," she finally fought.

Ashley arched her right eyebrow at Katia, daring her. "Are you calling me a liar?"

"Yes!" Suddenly Katia sat up and pushed off the swing, giving the swing a hard shove back. She spun around and pointed a finger right in Ashley's face. "Your mother liked me and I am perfectly mature for my age, thank you."

Ashley instantly stopped swinging then she couldn't hold it back anymore. The biggest grin started over her face and she began laughing.

Katia's hand fell to her side and she just glowered at her girlfriend. "You're really a pain in the ass sometimes." She started to move away but she was stopped by a strong hand grabbing her side.

"And you were the one that said you could maintain me," further teased the older woman.

Katia found herself guided down until she was straddling Ashley's lap, her knees pressed hard into the soft swing. "You're all about paypacks, I swear."

Ashley touched the small nose in front of her. "Don't dish it out if you can't take it."

Katia grinned and leaned her face in until her nose touched Ashley's. "I love to take it."

"Mmmm and I have no problem giving it," whispered the trooper, her lips lightly brushing Katia's. She then quickly moved her hands from Katia's sides to her ass and she dug her nails in hard enough.

Katia's mouth was forced against Ashley's from the unexpected shove from behind. She melted into the passionate kiss, her control wavering against her lover. When the kiss finally broke, she was breathing heavy with her forehead against Ashley's.

Ashley slid her hands up and underneath Katia's shirt to rub her lower back.

Katia's breathing finally calmed. She cleared her throat then muttered, "I have an idea."

"Hmmmm?"

"We should go see your mom." Katia now sensed Ashley's forehead move away from hers so she opened her eyes. She smirked at seeing Ashley hanging her head back against the back of the swing.

Ashley let out a deep groan. "You just ruined that moment, K."

"Oooh come on, Ash. When did you see your mom last?" After a dramatic sigh from her girlfriend, Katia received her answer, which actually surprised her. "Three months! Ashlinn K. Carver, you need to go see her."

"I've been… busy," weakly argued Ashley.

"That's a really bad excuse too."

Ashley let out another dramatic sigh as her eyes closed against the sun shining down.

"Come on." Katia poked her lover in the side. "I haven't seen in her forever either." She saw a faint grin now on Ashley's lips so she pressed harder. "I bet your mom will make us dinner. Maybe she'll even make those peanut butter brownies you like."

"Hmmmm." Ashley had a huge grin. She lifted her head quickly. "With hot fudge and vanilla ice cream." Her eyes were wide with hungry anticipation.

"Knowing your mom, probably." Katia chuckled at her girlfriend's suddenly enthusiasm. "I'll go call her." She hastily slid out of Ashley's lap, grabbed her untouched glass of tea, and hurried into the house.

Ashley shook her head while brushing back her long bangs from her forehead. "How did that just happen?" She grabbed her glass and gave the tea a little spin. "Remember… peanut butter brownies." With those words, she gave a personal cheers and bottomed up the last of her drink. Just as she set her empty glass on the table, she heard her lover coming out and chatting away on the cell phone.

Katia sat her glass back on the table while laughing about something. She shifted around then fell into the swing next to her girlfriend. "Well if we leave now, we should make it there in an hour and half or so."

Ashley grumbled then decided to just push the swing with her feet.

Katia heard the noise from her lover so she slapped her on the leg lightly. "Yeah I know the traffic is terrible down there." She pulled up her legs and crossed them. "I know that's what I said to Ashley." She turned her head to her girlfriend, her eyes narrowed and dark despite the smirk on her face. "Yeah she needs to visit more often." She then suddenly straightened up at what Mrs. Carver was telling her. "Really? I didn't realize that… no she didn't mention it."

The trooper turned her head. "Mention what?"

Katia waved her hand at Ashley for her to be quiet. "That is interesting. Well we went down to Rehoboth for dinner then came back here."

It quickly struck Ashley what her mother was telling Katia. This would not be so good after Katia got off the phone. She just grumbled, slumped into the swing, and began vigorously pushing the swing. "Just you wait, mother," she mumbled under her breath.

Katia laughed and was all smiles. "I'll tell you all about my semester and this summer. My summer has been pretty quiet." She then snickered at something Mrs. Carver told her. "Yes, well she does keep it interesting."

Ashley bit the right side of her cheek on the inside. She really was questioning herself for giving Katia her mother's number.

"Okay well we'll plan to leave within an hour or so." The young woman bent forward some then with her freehand she fiddled with her leather sandal strap. "Yes, and Ashley asked if she could have peanut butter brownies tonight." Slowly a grin creased her lips. "Ooo yes." She chuckled then quickly flashed a smirk at her lover.

Ashley rolled her eyes; she was too much in that habit today.

"Alright, Mrs. Carver we'll see you then." Katia leaned back while saying, "We will. Bye." She folded the clamshell phone shut and turned her head to Ashley. "I always meant to ask." When Ashley lifted an eyebrow it prompted her to continue with her question. "Why didn't your mother ever change her last name?"

"I'm not sure," confessed Ashley, "I think she figured it was too much hassle to change everything again." She shrugged then added, "What's in a name anyway?"

Katia's lips puckered as she considered her girlfriend's words. "I guess." She then patted Ashley's leg. "We need to leave in about an hour, tiger."

"Sounds good to me." Ashley quickly grabbed her glass and made a haste escape for the glass door.

Katia curiously watched her go. She licked her lips because she knew her girlfriend was avoiding something and she knew what that something was too. She slipped off the swing, grabbed her quarter filled glass, and followed after Ashley. She didn't find Ashley anywhere in the living room kitchen area but she had to set her glass down in the sink first. Just as the bottom of her glass met the sink bottom warm arms snaked around her waist.

Ashley pressed her body against her lover's then lowered her head close to Katia's ear.

Katia grasped Ashley's forearm yet she sucked in her breath when warm lips met the curve of her ear. "Aaashley."

"Mmmm?" murmured the older woman.

Katia shivered against the warm breath brushing her ear. "We don't have time," she gently reminded.

The trooper felt a grin coming on; Katia's tone was anything but defining. "We can… manage." She brought the edge of her teeth along the rim of Katia's ear.

Katia's knees slightly weakened under her, so did her resolve. "I still want to get a shower before… we go." She softly moaned when Ashley's tongue toyed with her.

Ashley's eyes went into a deep indigo at Katia's suggestion. "Perrrfecttt," she purred.

The small woman had her eyes closed but they flew open at Ashley's words. "Ooo no."

"Mmmhmmm," teased Ashley. She suddenly released Katia then took her hands to lead her away. "Come on, K."

Katia was quietly guided down the hallway, into Ashley's bedroom, and into the connecting bathroom.

Ashley decided to not bother closing the door and instead focused on her girlfriend. She faced her lover and pulled her in neatly against her body.

Katia was met with a long, deep kiss. She loved how Ashley's tongue moved with hers. She couldn't imagine any kisses being better than the ones from Ashley. She easily slid her right hand under Ashley's black shirt.

The trooper groaned as she pulled away from the kiss. She flashed a devilish grin then drew away. She went to the bathtub and pushed the curtain aside so she could start the shower. By the time she had it going and at the right temperature, she found her girlfriend in only her bra and bikini cut underwear. She neared Katia as Katia came to her.

Katia grasped Ashley's pants at the top.

"You know, red really suits you," decided Ashley as she appreciated her girlfriend's deep red bra that matched her soft underwear.

"Hmmmm." Katia easily caught the bottom of Ashley's shirt and pulled the top off of Ashley. "And black is more you."

Ashley smirked while lowering her head. "Black brings out my eyes."

Katia chuckled but she knew there was some truth behind that as she always admired those indigo to sky blue eyes. "Come on, love." She unbuttoned Ashley's pants.

Not requiring anymore invitation, Ashley stripped her jeans off and shook off her sandals. Then together they helped each other with their last minor articles of clothing. The couple finally made it into the warm shower with Ashley's back to the rain of water and Katia facing her lover.

Their wet lips met in a hungry kiss as their skin slid against each other from the water. The water streamed down over their bodies and in between as they felt even more alive. Katia was amazed at how easy it was to glide her hands across her lover's slick back. She could feel ever muscle in Ashley's back tense then sooth under her caress. Suddenly her desire felt hotter than it ever had.

Ashley broke away from the third kiss but kept her head low while whispering, "Turn around, K."

The small woman was tempted to ask why but she didn't when she saw the aggression in Ashley's swirling eyes. She merely ran her fingertips over Ashley's left breast and enjoyed the nipple hardening in response. When she was turned around a very strong arm snaked under her arms and across her stomach. Her body was pulled in very tightly against Ashley's and she felt Ashley's center pressed against her, which made her moan.

Ashley brought her lips across Gabrielle's wet shoulder and began gently nipping. Her freehand was left to tease Katia's right nipple.

Katia whimpered and dropped her head back but off to the side as Ashley found her neck. She reached around with one hand and gripped Ashley's lower back. "Ashley," she begged. Yet Ashley only continued her teasing and tasting Katia's moist skin. She then found her lover guiding her in the shower as they now faced the wall of the shower.

Ashley's hand trailed its way down Katia's flat stomach and stopped just above all of Gabrielle's frustrations. Ashley raised her head some until her mouth was next to Katia's ear. She murmured, "Spread your legs for me."

The command was easy for Katia to follow. Her skin burned at every inch and the water did nothing to relieve it. It was her lover's touch that could calm the quaking desire in her.

Ashley's hand now moved over Katia's inner thighs. "Lock your knees, love." She gave a sharp bite to Katia's left neck.

Katia gasped but adjusted her knees perfectly. Her reward was Ashley's fingers slipping into her, which was rather sudden. It made Katia's body tremble in weakness.

"I've got you," promised the trooper. Her left arm completely supported Katia's weight with ease while she began pleasing her lover.

Katia's body was coated with more passion than water. Her head fell forward and she smashed her right palm against the tiling of the shower. Her other hand was wrapped around and clinging to Ashley's upper thigh on the side. "Ashley, please… god," she half growled in a desperate tone.

Ashley had a gentle grin. This was one of Ashley's few ways of silencing her normally talkative, articulate girlfriend. It seemed as if every word failed Katia when her emotions during making love were throwing her out of control. Ashley loved how she could take that control from Katia then return it just as easily. It was a gift form Katia.

"Ashley?"

Ashley finished her kiss on Katia's shoulder. She picked out the urgency in her lover's tone. "What is it, K?" She carefully nipped at her lover's neck. "What you need?" She murmured in the small ear close by.

"Go faster… please." Her need was fulfilled by her lover. Katia's eyes closed, head still forward, and she was consumed by her body's every sensation. She could feel the water rolling over her skin, her lover's body molded against hers, and Ashley deep inside of her. Her emotions met the intensity of her body and Katia quickly dropped her head back against Ashley's chest.

Ashley placed a light kiss to her girlfriend's temple. She then closed her eyes and let her cheek rest against Katia's. She knew any second Katia would reach her peak especially as Katia's nails dug deeper into her thigh. She gave the final, powerful encouragement to Katia's passion then she listened to Katia reaching that beautiful climax. It was always in that moment that her rapid heartbeat seemed to still just so it could hear Katia too.

Katia's hand that'd been against the tile was now at her side. Her fingers weren't clawing into Ashley's thigh but instead rubbing against the marks left behind. She remained still while her body and mind balanced out again.

Ashley very slowly pulled out then had both arms around her lover. She could tell Katia was coming back by the fact she was nuzzling their cheeks together. Ashley still knew it would take some minutes for Katia to find any physical strength again. Carefully and gradually, the trooper guided their bodies around again so that their backs were to the shower.

Katia enjoyed the warm water pinning against her back that seemed to now sooth her. Her body was fully supported by her girlfriend between her body and arms. This was one of the many things she loved about Ashley. She cleared her throat some because she didn't trust her voice otherwise. "I love you, Ash." She twisted her head some and managed a kiss to Ashley's cheek.

"I love you too, K." Ashley was smiling and she returned the kiss.

Katia reached up and brushed back a few soak strands of hair. "I don't know how you do that." Her hand now laced over Ashley's arm at her stomach.

The trooper chuckled, her eyes finally fluttering open. "Which part?"

The small woman smirked. "All of it."

"Well that certainly narrows it down," teased Ashley.

Katia huffed then began rubbing her hand over Ashley's arms. "You know what I mean."

"I do," quietly agreed Ashley. She straightened up some and was able to rest her cheek against the top of Katia's head.

They were silent for awhile but it was Ashley's rumbling voice that came first. Katia had her eyes closed until her girlfriend's words made her gaze out.

Katia bit the inside of her lip. "Sure, Ash. What is it?" She felt Ashley's weight leave her and she could only wonder what the question was.

Ashley didn't know what was the right time to ask and she doubt she'd ever find a right time. It was already on her mind so she went with it. "Well I was thinking about how…." She trailed off when Katia started shifting around. She was now met by curious green eyes, which made her slightly smile.

Katia leaned back into Ashley's strong arms as her gaze stayed transfixed on Ashley. "Go on." She wanted to see Ashley while this topic was between them, she could tell it was serious.

The trooper returned to her thought process. "What I was saying was that I noticed how I'm typically the aggressor and dominate between us." Her hand came up and she carefully moved random pieces of blond hair away. "With what happened with Bobby…."

"The rape, you mean," clarified Katia. She sensed Ashley's body tensing at the word like some automatic response. "Go ahead, Ash." She knew it was easier today to speak about the rape than it had been many months ago. She'd come to accept it despite she lacked any memories of it. She could tell however that Ashley was still accepting Katia's months old fate.

"Typically a… rape victim doesn't like to give control over to their sexual partner."

"So you're wondering why I'm fine with it?" Katia's eyes lowered as she considered her lover's line of thinking. The answer finally came up from behind and she quickly lifted her gaze. "I think it has to do with the fact that I don't have any memories of it really." Katia's brow pulled in as she further studied this. "I do know it happened because my body remembers it despite I don't." She now rested her right arm on Ashley's upper arm. "I think if we were having sex closer to when the rape happened, it would be totally different."

The trooper chewed on this information then finally digested it easily. It was making sense to her more than anything. "I believe the therapy has been helping too."

"It really has," agreed Katia. "So did you coming the first few times. It put a part of me at ease about us and let me trust you for later down the road. For when we got to this point."

Ashley nodded her head.

Katia tilted her head because she could tell something was still on Ashley's mind.

"Would you like me to come to another therapy session with you?"

Katia smiled at the offer and Ashley's continued devotion. "Well the therapy has moved away from the rape for the most part. We've been working on my past… with my father and my parents' drinking habits."

"Maybe we can do a session or two where we discuss the sexual aspect of our relationship."

Katia was surprised by her lover's persistence on the topic. She smiled some and placed her hand against Ashley's cheek. "If you'd like, love."

"We have a healthy sexual relationship," stated Ashley, "but sometimes it is good to bounce around topics in front of a therapist."

Katia's nose crinkled up as her grin formed. "Worried I'm hiding something?"

Ashley grinned in response. "No."

"Well… we both might be without even realizing it." Katia pulled her hand away finally and leaned in to place a feather kiss to Ashley's chest. "I'll setup a session for us, okay?"

Ashley only nodded.

"And speaking of healthy sex, I think…." Katia was grinning wildly as her hand teased the skin over Ashley's lower abdomen.

The state trooper grasped Katia's wondering hand then softly stated, "We need to get moving so we can make it there on time."

"Ash-"

"No," broke in the trooper. Her hand laced through Gabrielle's. She saw how Katia's lower lip slightly poked out further and those green eyes were pleading. "I'll be fine."

Katia's teeth were somewhat grinding together but she let it go. She narrowed her eyes yet half turned to grab the shampoo from the corner of the shower.

Ashley knew her lover would settle back down and most likely get even later. So yes, she decided, maybe a little therapy for the sexual aspect of their relationship would be good for them. She truly liked Katia's therapist but now she was feeling sorry for the therapist that would have to mediate them. The idea almost made her chuckle out loud.

Finally the couple finished their shower, got dried, and hurried into their clothes for the day. Ashley decided on white, plain short this time along with a light yellow blouse that had a green ivy stitched pattern over her right stomach and left shoulder. Katia however had on white capris and a white blouse that had green stitching running through it then the sleeves were three-quarters. She decided on her usual brown leather sandals and she perfectly matched it with her brown belt.

Katia buttoned her last button between her breasts. She turned and found her lover there. She approached her then started straightening out her blouse.

Ashley returned to her eye rolling while she went under inspection by her girlfriend.

"Going to wear your sandals too?" asked Katia as she straightened out Ashley's disheveled collar.

"Yes."

"You should put on that other necklace with the heart. The one your mom gave you." Katia finally stopped fussing and rested her hands on her girlfriend's hips.

"Okay."

The small woman tilted her head back more then reached up. She played with Ashley's midnight bangs, trying to get them away from Ashley's eyes. "You need to trim these."

"No."

Katia mock glowered at the tall woman. "You're going to let them grow out?"

"Yes."

Katia completely stopped as she gave up; she smirked. "Brat." She patted the taunt stomach under the blouse then she strolled out of the bedroom.

Ashley wistfully watched her lover disappear into the hallway. She sighed contently and went to her dresser where her small jewelry box lived. She weeded through it until she found that necklace that her girlfriend recommended. She rarely wore jewelry unless it was a certain occasion. The only exception though was her ring that Katia had given her for her birthday. The ring had become a treasured symbol to Ashley and she was actually stunned by the number of compliments she received from fellow troopers in the barracks. Some of the guys would become seriously curious about the ring and ask where they could get it for their wife or girlfriend. Ashley's smartass response was always Le Tiffany's as Katia called the store.

"Come on, Ash we need to get out of here."

Ashley broke from her musings. "Comin', sweetie." Her tone was full of amusement. She swiped her cell phone off the dresser, her car keys, and stashed her wallet in her back pocket. For a second she stared at her badge proudly sitting in the center of it all. She tore away from it and hurried after her girlfriend.

Katia already sensed her lover coming. She had the main door open then she held the screen door open.

"We're taking my car," stated the trooper, "since you need to drive home tonight."

Katia wrapped her fingers around Ashley's closest wrist. "Thanks, baby." She stepped out of the doorway as Ashley was coming through.

Ashley locked the main door as she slammed it shut. She then let Katia close the screen door for them. She followed her lover to the car while hitting the unlock button on her key control.

Katia found it tough to breathe when she got into the heated car. She instantly felt better when Ashley had the windows down after the car started.

"Buckle up," ordered the trooper. She threw her car in reverse and out of the driveway in no time. She swung the car around and paused to put the car into drive.

"You too," chided the smaller woman.

Ashley smirked as she quickly buckled up then took off down the road. When she finally pulled up to the stop sign for Route 50 East, Ashley watched the traffic scream by. She watched as a car pulled onto the shoulder to make a right onto the road they were on. Something about driver caught her eye instantly.

Ashley's were narrow at the start but they widened when she recognized the driver.

Katia was wondering why her lover hadn't pulled out onto Route 50. She then realized Ashley was staring at the car making the right turn onto their road. "What's wrong?"

Ashley shook her head and reached to put her window down when the car stopped next to them.

Katia was sorely confused now but the other driver put her window down. She was stunned by the beautiful blond behind the wheel.

"How's your weekend, Carver?"

The state trooper smirked at her partner. "Good. How's yours?"

Corporal Haden's head bobbed and her expression neutral like always. "A lot of unpacking." Her icy eyes rested on Katia now.

Ashley picked this up quickly. "Alexa, this is…" She paused in mid-introduction. "…my girlfriend, Katia Danforth."

Katia blinked. Did Ashley just call her 'my girlfriend'? She was almost sure she heard Ashley correctly. She leaned forward to get a better view of the blue-eyed, blond trooper.

"Katia, this is my partner Corporal Alexa Haden."

If Alexa had been shocked by the fact that Ashley and Katia were together she certainly didn't show it. She remained untouched by it as she offered a smile to Katia. "Nice to meet you, Katia."

Katia returned the smile. "You too, Alexa. I heard you just moved here. Are you in Mardela Springs?"

Ashley curiously waited for the answer as she could only wonder where her partner lived.

"Yes I do," answered the corporal. "Are you from here?"

Katia shook her head while brushing her hair behind her right ear. "I'm actually from Chestertown but I go to SU."

The corporal's eyes glazed over in understanding. "I see. Perhaps I will see you again then."

Katia smiled at the woman's words. "Most likely… I come to the barracks on occasions to see Ashley."

"Indeed," murmured Alexa, her eyes flickered up to Ashley. "I must go. I will see you tomorrow."

Ashley nodded. She noted that another car was coming up behind them as well as behind Alexa. "See you then, Alexa."

"Nice to meet you, Katia." The blond trooper didn't wait as she released the brake and drove off.

Ashley put the window back up so that it would cool off in the car again. She was finally able to pull out onto Route 50.

"So that's your partner huh?"

"Yup."

Katia chewed on her lower lip then a grin swept over her. "She's pretty hot, Ash." Suddenly she yelped when Ashley smacked her closest thigh real hard.

"She's too tall anyway," complained the trooper.

"Not for me," taunted the college student. Once again she cried out when her girlfriend hit her leg again. "What?" she growled.

"You're the brat, K."

Katia snickered at her lover's reaction. "You have to admit she's pretty good lookin', Ash." She sunk down into her seat to get comfortable. "She's really beautiful."

"She is," relented the trooper. She could tell now her girlfriend was saying it out of pure observation. She then heard her lover giggling about something. "What is it?"

"She's the complete opposite of you."

Ashley sighed then shrugged. "Actually she and I are more alike than you and I."

Katia carefully considered this then her teasing voice came out. "Perhaps."

The trooper ran her tongue along the front of her teeth for a second. "Right… see if I introduce you as my girlfriend ever again."

"Hey!" Katia pointed a finger at her lover. "I did not ask you to do that."

"True," gave in Ashley.

"You have to admit, the way she talks is… different." Katia settled back into her seat. "You were right about that."

"Mmmm." Ashley blinked into the fast lane to get by a few slow cars. "I haven't figured out why yet she talks like that."

"Must have something to do with her upbringing." Katia shrugged and turned her head to her lover. "I mean you're in the army but you don't talk that… I want to say official."

"I'm not sure what it is," admitted the trooper. "But I think it does have something to do with her upbringing."

"Maybe you'll find out at some point."

"Indeed."

Katia reacted just as quickly as Ashley did earlier. "You damn smartass, I swear. You're such a pain in the ass."

"I love you too," tease back the trooper.

Katia grunted and folded her arms against her chest.

Ashley had one big grin on her face. She reached over with her right hand and trailed her hand up and down Katia's thigh.

Katia grabbed up the wondering hand and laced her fingers through. She brought Ashley's hand up then kissed the back of the large hand.

"I think maybe the captain… has some sugar in her tank."

Katia was idly rubbing her thumb across Ashley's hand but she stopped. She looked at her girlfriend in mild surprise. "I can't believe you said that. Sugar in her tank?"

Ashley chuckled then shrugged. She now maneuvered her car back into the slow lane when cars came up behind her. "She shows up on the gaydar."

Katia lightly scratched her lower neck while thinking about this information. She flopped her hand back into her lap and curiously studied her lover. "You really think she's gay?"

"It's possible," replied the trooper. Ashley now truly considered it then mentioned, "I notice some kind of tension between her and Alexa."

"Well you said they constantly argue because Alexa tries her patience."

"Well that too," agreed Ashley, "but I'm talking about sexual tension."

"You're joking."

"No." Ashley arched an eyebrow at her lover. "It's transforming into sexual tension." Suddenly a wicked grin shaped her lips. "And I'm dying to play with it."

"Ashley Carver, you better watch it or else you'll get burnt playing with fire."

"Ooo I'll be careful… this could be a lot of fun. I can't pass it up." Ashley snickered then decided it was best to watch her driving.

Katia was just shaking her head at her girlfriend's mirth. There were times like this that Katia realized how her girlfriend could act like such a kid about certain things and yet she was quite clever about it too. She welded up with sympathy for the corporal and captain.



Part XI

Alexa Haden parked her VW car perfectly into a parking spot at Lowe's. She shut the car off and let out a distant sigh because she didn't feel like doing this. She forced herself out of the car and began her walk through the parking lot to the main entrance of Lowe's. She really needed to repaint the bedroom in her house that she planned to make her master bedroom. The current room's bland white walls needed something more pleasing.

The corporal entered the huge store and only grabbed a basket. Her icy blues scanned the store for her destination in mind. She immediately headed for the paint department. She first started with the easy part and collected the supplies she'd need to repaint the room. After she had everything, she went down to the aisle that had the color pallets for the paints. Very meticulously she went through to pick out the perfect color for her future bedroom.

Alexa paused on a frost blue flavor that truly caught her eye. She even decided it probably was the same shade as her eyes or at least close enough. Finally settled on the color, she straightened up and was about to start on her mission to find a Lowe's employee. Something or rather somebody caught her attention down at the other end of the aisle so she turned her head to the right.

There at the end of the aisle was a short, auburn woman pushing a cart and intently checking over the array of paint brushes.

Alexa remained stoic but her right eyebrow rose up in curiosity. She marched down the aisle to the familiar face then when she was close enough she greeted, "Captain."

Small fingers let go of the Badger brand brush and steel grey eyes lifted to the tall trooper. "Haden."

The corporal could tell her superior was surprised by her being there. "How are you, captain?"

Caitlin Jonson now straightened out as if entering her captain mindset. "I'm good. How's your weekend? Get settled in?"

"I'm in the process." Alexa adjusted the heavy basket in her right hand. "I did not expect to see you here."

The captain's lips played with a grin. "Well your captain is human after all." She then directed her chin at the supplies in her cart. "And I have a house to maintain."

"Indeed," murmured the trooper.

"Why are you here?"

"To shop, captain."

Caitlin blinked at the corporal for the literal answer. "I meant what are you doing? It looks like you're going to paint something."

Alexa followed her captain's gaze to the basket in her hand. She finally nodded. "Yes, the master bedroom in my house isn't aesthetically pleasing."

"Ah, I see." The captain wasn't sure why she wanted to keep carrying on a conversation with the young woman but she refused to let her go. "Have you selected a color?"

"Yes, actually." The trooper slightly turned in her stance. "I shall show you." She rotated around and started on her way.

Captain Jonson slightly smirked. "Let's," she muttered and followed after her subordinate with her cart rattling ahead.

The trooper stopped in font of the large color pallet but she stepped aside to give the captain room.

Caitlin stood with her hands on her hips and head to one side.

"This one here." Alexa pointed to the color swatch in the blue, green section.

The captain seriously considered the color then gave an inquisitive look to the corporal. "Is the room small?"

"It is only twelve by seventeen feet."

"That's enough for you though," decided the captain. She curiously peered up at the tall trooper. "You are living alone, right?"

"Yes," came the terse reply.

Caitlin wiggled out the color swatch from the group and read the name. She wanted to laugh because the color name was an exact description of the trooper's eyes. "I like this," she agreed.

The corporal's cold expression was broke by a faint smile. "I will go with that then." She retrieved the swatch from the captain and went on a hunt for an employee.

That left the captain to mull over the colors too. She needed to repaint her dining room that was rather lacking. The color was currently an off yellow that didn't sit well with her. She debated whether to go with a traditional white or something more explosive like a purple or red. She noted that the trooper returned but with a Lowe's employee tagging along.

"Have you selected a color, captain?"

The Lowe's employee, Tim, curiously studied the small woman when he heard captain.

The captain refrained from grinning and instead looked at Alexa. "I was debating between a plain white or something different like a deep red."

The corporal's eyes narrowed as her mind quickly considered the options. "What are you floors, captain?"

"Hardwood," mildly answered Caitlin.

"What room?"

"Dining."

"Color now?"

Caitlin was handling the red color swatch in her hand. "A canary color." She replaced the swatch and plucked a white color that she liked too.

The trooper leaned over the captain and removed a different swatch then handed it over. "That is the color."

The captain held it in her other hand then compared it to her other one. She really liked the shade that Alexa had selected.

"Any trim?" inquired the corporal.

"No actually." The captain smiled at the Lowe's employee. "I'll go with this."

Tim took the swatch and asked, "How many gallons?"

"Seventeen by thirteen feet." Her statement was directed at Haden though.

Alexa nodded then turned to Tim. "Four gallons should be sufficient." If her mental calculations were correct then there would definitely be some left over.

"Alright, I'll be a few minutes to get this together." With that, Tim was off to gather up the required paints.

The captain returned the white swatch that she'd selected earlier. As she put it back a thought occurred to her and she faced the corporal. "Do you time after shopping here, Haden?"

"Perhaps, captain. What do you require?" Alexa studied the captain and noticed how her jeans were worn plus coated in a fine dust. The white shirt that the captain wore was just plain and slightly tattered. She naturally assumed that the captain must have been working on the dining room today already, probably getting it prepped for the painting.

"I need a dinner date." Caitlin's grey eyes softened into a blue. "Care to join?" She could tell that Haden hadn't expected the invite because it was the first time she'd ever seen any form of shock on the corporal's usual stone face.

Alexa quickly recovered and coolly replied, "I'd be honored, captain."

Caitlin inwardly groaned after hearing her title for the hundredth time. She knew the trooper respected her highly and in many ways she wasn't ready to break that boundary between them.

"Any restaurant in mind?"

Caitlin revealed a grin. "How do you like Chinese?"

Alexa really considered the food. "I am quite fond of it." She nodded her approval finally.

"Well there's a Chinese restaurant a few plazas up on 13. It's near the Giant."

The corporal knew where the Giant was and when she sifted through her memories she knew what restaurant. "Very well."

Just before the captain could say anymore, Tim and another employee came around with six gallon cans. The captain shifted around the trooper and helped the two men. "Here, just put them all in the cart."

The corporal had a raised eyebrow when her two gallons were placed in the captain's cart. "Thank you," she politely spoke to Tim and the other employee.

"Have a good night, ladies." Tim smiled then headed off with his coworker.

"Come on… I'm hungry," stated the captain. She got behind her cart and pushed off.

The corporal stood still for a few heartbeats. "Indeed," she whispered yet her eyes softened.

The pair made a beeline for a checkout line, paid for their items, and headed out of the store into the warm, late afternoon. They went first to where the captain parked since she had more items. Alexa was remotely shocked as they approached a large, silver Dodge Ram truck. She was convinced that truck was one of the guy's truck at the barracks now she knew it was the captain's in fact.

Captain Jonson dropped the truck bed door and easily pushed her items in, under the silver snugtop.

Alexa mentally shook off her astonishment and assisted the captain with her items. She was baffled why such a petite person required such a large truck but even she had to admit it seemed well kept.

The captain slammed the door shut then faced the trooper. "Do you know how to get over there?"

"It is easy enough."

Caitlin nodded as she brushed back a few stray auburn hairs from the breeze. "Alright, I'll meet you over there."

The state trooper nodded then headed off with the shopping cart that had her items.

The captain went to her driver's door but paused and gazed back at the receding blond. She was a little perplexed by her own reactions to the young woman. She merely shrugged and tabbed it up to being lonely after so long. She sighed, opened the heavy door, and climbed into the truck.

Haden had all her stuff in the trunk, the cart returned, and finally into her car. She started the small four cylinder engine and backed out carefully. She spotted the captain's trunk already making way to the exit of the Lowe's. She easily followed behind her.

The two women pulled into the parking lot that was for the plaza of the Giant and a few other shops. Haden pulled up next to the silver truck, cut her engine off, and hopped out.

The captain was already out and waiting by the front of her truck as the blond bombshell neared her. "Ever eaten here?"

Alexa was staring at the Chinese restaurant's entrance. "No."

There was a distant grin on the captain's face. "Come on." She led the way through the parking lot to the restaurant.

The trooper remained silent as she tagged along side. Her mind was processing tonight's events so far. They were anything she'd expected yet secretly she was enjoying her time with the captain. She was also very curious as to why the captain invited her for dinner.

Caitlin approached the hostess and told her it was just her and Alexa. She was immediately guided through the restaurant to a booth where she slid into her spot. As she got comfortable, she found chilled blue eyes gazing upon her. "I haven't had Chinese in ages." Her lips played with a silly grin.

The trooper couldn't help it, her eyes softened at the merriment of the captain. "It has been a long time for me as well."

Caitlin was about to ask more but held off when the server stepped up.

"What you want to drink?"

"A Diet Coke for me," replied the captain.

"Sweetened ice tea."

The server nodded at the pair then disappeared to get their drinks.

"So where are you from, Alexa?"

The trooper remained ridged in her chair, her hands folded in her lap, and her attention transfixed on the captain. "I am originally from York-Harrisburg area."

The captain's head tilted. "I didn't realize that."

"Are you from here, captain?"

Caitlin placed her hands on the table and toyed with her rolled up utensils. "No, I'm actually from the Philadelphia area myself. I moved here a few months ago."

Alexa noted that the captain seemed uneasy yet she didn't bring it up. "Were you in the force there?"

"Yes, actually." Caitlin though was saved when the server returned with their drinks. She further broke away from the topic by saying, "Let's go get something."

The corporal had an arched back at the captain's receding backside. She slid out of the chair and followed behind.

It wasn't very long before the two officers had full plates and returning to their table. Once they were comfortable and situated, their conversation picked up again.

"How are you getting along with Carver?"

Alexa finished her morsel before answering. "Well, captain." She thoughtfully considered that then added, "As a matter of fact, I saw her today on my way home."

"Really?" Caitlin pierced a pork dumpling and dipped it in the sauce. "How was she?"

"Well." Then Alexa's next words were quite loud and clear. "She introduced me to her girlfriend."

Caitlin suddenly choked on her dumpling as it was part of the way behind her throat. She coughed between trying to swallow the food down. She got the piece down but not without getting tiny bits stuck in her throat. She started coughing repeatedly now and patted her chest.

"Drink your soda, captain." Alexa was concerned despite she didn't outwardly show it.

The captain seconded the idea as she gulped down a few mouthfuls of soda. It finally helped and she leaned back into her seat. She cleared her throat one last time for good measure then her clipped tone came out. "Girlfriend?"

"Yes. Her name was Katia," informed the trooper.

"I see," murmured the captain. She leaned forward again and picked up her fork.

The corporal's birthmark designed eyebrow arched up. "You do not approve, captain?"

"It's not my place to judge, Haden."

The trooper seriously considered this then stated, "Yet your reaction displays otherwise."

"I just didn't expect it," argued the captain. Her voice hinted her touchiness about the topic.

"Indeed," whispered the corporal yet she let it go, for now. Instead she returned to her meal and happily enjoyed it. Her mind then wondered back to the captain and her life. Suddenly a thought occurred to her and she quickly acted on it. "Do you live alone, captain?"

Caitlin paused between picking up her soda. Her fingers merely remained wrapped around the glass. "Yes I do." She finally took a drink.

Alexa processed the information then stated, "It must be hard since you're in a large home." She noted the furrowed eyebrows of the captain. "It is obvious you're in a large home by the size of your dining room."

The captain slightly smiled about the trooper's perception. "You're right."

"Of course," proudly stated the trooper, "It is rather logical."

The captain contained her smirk and went back to her dinner.

Alexa ate her food in silence but her mind was working on things much faster. She touched her cup of tea but first inquired, "How old are you, captain?"

Steely grey eyes rose up to the trooper. "Why so curious, Haden?" came out the rumble of the captain's voice.

"I am merely curious, captain."

"How old are you?" countered Caitlin. Her eyes were lighter and almost laughing.

The corporal remained unmoved then stated, "Twenty-six."

The captain almost wanted to groan at the other woman's young, spirited age. To her, twenty-six seemed like a distant memory these days.

Alexa picked up on the captain's refusal to answer the question. So she pressed forward. "I do not understand why people become upset about something as trivial as their age."

The captain absorbed the trooper's words, her mind mulling over each piece. "It's because we see where we've been and what we have left to work with." She paused and pushed around her white rice with her fork. "In my case, I don't have much left to work with."

Haden lowered her fork to her empty plate. "I do not see that, captain. I can estimate you're between thirty-five to forty, which means you have many years to go to accomplish things."

"Yes but certain things I'm getting too old to… acquire."

Alexa deeply worked out what the captain's reference may be. Her eyes flickered to the captain's left hand then it struck her. "You are not married," she bluntly stated.

Caitlin swore she had instant indigestion at that moment. Now was she regretting inviting this young trooper with her? She'd caught Alexa's gaze to her left hand, which was bare of any rings. Her mood deepened when old memories filtered back to her and she fought them off so they wouldn't sour her mood anymore. "Maybe some day." She offered a smile.

Alexa easily processed the captain's smile, which was fake and weak. She refrained from anymore comments since she could tell it was the captain's wound. "I would not doubt it, captain." She then slipped out from her spot and disappeared to the buffet area.

Caitlin however remained motionless, her gaze fixed on her left hand. She lifted her hand and her thumb habitually rubbed across the inside of her ring finger as if to spin an imaginary ring. She finally pushed her body out of the booth then went for seconds too.

The pair returned to the table eventually and idly chitchatted about certain topics that weren't overly personal. The captain found herself thoroughly enjoying the conversation with the younger woman, especially when they had a few minor debates. Caitlin was rather surprised by Haden's effort to keep up on the debate and always had an argument. It seemed to stir Caitlin alive in a way she hadn't felt in a long time.

Caitlin finally rested back against her chair and felt relatively full but content. She rested her hands on her lower stomach and studied the trooper. She noticed how Haden remained fairly formal around her and never seemed to completely relax yet as she wondered if that wasn't how Haden always acted.

The corporal kept her back straight against the cushioned booth. "Captain, will you need help with painting your dining room?"

The captain's formal response was a sharp no however it never came from her lips. She was quiet for a few heartbeats then she was almost sure it wasn't her voice when she replied, "Yes, I will." She was amazed by Alexa's icy eyes softening with hidden emotions.

"Then I would like to help," stated Haden. "When do you plan to do the work?"

Caitlin tried to furiously strangle her voice but failed. "I planned to do it tonight."

The corporal seriously pondered what her original plans were tonight versus helping the captain. She gave a stern nod. "I will assist then, captain."

Caitlin swallowed against her parched throat. "Thank you, Haden." She twisted her head when the waiter showed up with their tab. She collected it from him and despite her head was down she could tell Haden was getting money out. "I've got it."

"Captain-"

"You're going to help me tonight, right?"

Haden was slightly bent to the side, stuck in mid motion of getting her wallet out. "Of course."

"Then I can at least cover your dinner." The captain already had her money out and was thumbing through it. She pulled out enough for the tip.

"May I get the tip at least?" persisted the young woman.

Caitlin shook her head then grinned. "Nope." She pulled out the tip money, placed it on the table, and got up.

The corporal faintly shook her head then stood up. She followed behind the captain to the register table near the hostess's desk. She waited until the captain was finished then she joined the captain's side.

For the first time, the captain truly took in Alexa's attire. The jeans hugged Alexa's tall but shapely legs and her top was a simple grey tee-shirt with nothing written on it but emphasized her cleavage. Then Alexa's face was bare of any makeup yet her hair was pulled back in a perfect bun with not one loose hair. The captain had to admit despite that Alexa was plainly dressed she still glowed with beauty. Alexa could never disappear into any crowd as she moved herself beyond them both physically and mentally.

The captain stopped at the front of her truck.

"I will follow you, captain." Alexa stood at attention, her hands behind her back.

Caitlin's eyes held amusement and her husky tone said even more. "It's not far from here… fifteen minutes or so."

The trooper nodded then went to her vehicle.

The captain hesitated and watched the tall beauty get into the small VW car. She chuckled but as she climbed into her truck she released a pent up sigh. She ran her fingers through her auburn hair while she tried to insert her car key. She realized the key wouldn't fit because she had the wrong one on the ring. She growled then found the right key and rammed it into the ignition. "Wake up, Cait… you're acting like a kid," she hotly muttered and harshly twisted the ignition key. "You're a goddamn police captain."

The Ram truck's throaty growl signaled it was awake.

Caitlin felt some sense of control when her truck started. She hastily put it into drive and pulled out of the parking spot. She rolled down the huge parking lot a ways then paused as Alexa had to back out. Once the VW Passat was behind her, she hurried through the plaza.

Caitlin realized tonight would prove very interesting. She knew she was acting out of normal character for herself. She rarely spent time with any of the troopers at the barracks unless it was the occasional night at the bar. She had strict personal protocol to never get involved with a trooper because she knew her personal life and work should never mix. To her, work and her life were oil and water and it should always remain so. Then why after all these years was she breaking her protocol and particularly with this unusual woman?



Part XII

Ashley reached over and turned the music down so that she could get her girlfriend's attention.

Katia was off in a daze, staring out the passenger's window, and her imagination was wondering. She was quickly shaken from it when the music went lower. She turned her head to Ashley with a curious look on her face.

"I need to talk to you about something," explained the trooper.

Katia could tell it was serious but it wasn't about their relationship, well not directly at least. Katia had a knack for easily reading Ashley as the days rolled on. She shifted in her seat some and placed her full attention on her girlfriend. "Okay, what's it about, Ash?"

The trooper debated on how to first approach the topic without giving away anything. She knew the longer she stalled the more she was giving away. She first pulled into the slow lane of traffic on Route 1 then began talking. "I'm not sure if you've heard a lot of the problems with the university and the local police?" Her questioning eyes switched to Katia then back to the road.

"You mean SU?" At Ashley's nod, Katia said, "I've heard some of the problems. I know they're busting parties a lot… I always heard other students talking about it in class."

"That's part of it," agreed the trooper. "There's another part."

Katia shifted more in her seat so that she could get a better view of her lover.

"The local police are in the habit of trespassing, breaking and entering, and illegally pulling over students." Ashley slowed the car down as they came closer to the McDonalds on the corner; she needed to make a right.

"How long has it been going on for?"

At first Ashley didn't reply as she took the turn. Once she was settled on the road she continued the conversation. "For a couple of years now, I believe."

"Okay." Katia considered what her girlfriend may be saying to her. She cleared her throat. "You want me to be careful then?"

"Yes that's part of it." Ashley rested back in the seat after she set the cruise control. "And I'd suggest you don't go to any parties. I know you'll be twenty-one this August but you could be held responsible for any under agers at the party."

"How is that?" argued Katia, not that she was too keen on parties anyway.

The state trooper sighed. "Trust me, with how these local police are right now… it wouldn't surprise me how they could pull things over."

The young woman sighed dropped her head against the chair. "I just think you don't want to give me another citation." At hearing Ashley's silence, she turned her head to her again. "It was a joke, Ash."

Ashley wasn't laughing, not grinning, and was only serious. "I guess I still feel low for that." The memories of the night that she gave her best friend a citation for merely holding Erin's drink still bothered her.

Katia was actually surprise to hear the confession. "Ash, that was mooonths ago. I let it go so long ago." She studied her lover's brooding mood. "Why are you still feel guilty about that?"

"It's just… not an easy position to be in," replied the trooper.

Katia processed what her girlfriend said then compared it to the events back in the late winter. "You know, I was so angry at you at the time and I'm not now." She fell silent as she further considered things. "I guess I finally realized you had a job to do, whether you liked it or not." She reached over and placed her warm hand on her lover's thigh. "I know it's possible for something like that to happen again and if it happens again I won't argue with you about it."

Ashley had a skeptic eyebrow crescent expression.

Katia slightly grinned at the look but she squeezed the muscular thigh under her hand. "I'm serious. I realized I can't put you in that bad position where you're feeling pulled between your job and your love for me."

"That's not going to fix it, K."

"No," agreed the young woman, "but it'll make it easier at least… for you, me and us." She thoughtfully studied her lover. "I support you being a trooper and I plan to do that even when my ass gets busted for anything." She chuckled at the image then it was lost on her. "Besides, I'm old enough to take responsibility for my actions."

Ashley remained silent and it wasn't because she didn't know what to say. She had so many things to say in this case because she never saw her girlfriend maturing so fast. She some times wondered if Katia wasn't older than her with some of the revelations that Katia had over these months. For some time, Ashley had been concerned that Katia may have been too young for her and that may be they only had a sisterly relationship at the start. Yet as this past winter faded into the spring and now the summer, she'd come to see Katia was no baby sister but far more. In many ways, Ashley was grateful they waited before stepping forward with their relationship so that she could see such events as these between her and Katia.

"Hey," whispered Katia with a shake to Ashley's leg. "Still with me?"

The trooper was jarred from her thinking and she dashed a smile at her lover. "Yeah, sorry. I was just thinking."

"I could tell." Katia's head bent to one side. "What about?"

Ashley released the steering wheel and collected her lover's hand into hers. "You."

"Now that sounds pretty boring," bantered the college student.

"Never." Ashley laced her fingers through Katia's. "I just would prefer you to stay away from those parties." She squeezed the small hand under hers. "I'm not telling you what to do but I'm telling you what's happening and what's safer." She paused and quickly glanced at her lover to see if she was at all annoyed but Katia was calm. "I'm just concerned if you do get into a jam with a local cop that I wouldn't be able to do much about it even if the cop did something illegal."

"I understand." Katia returned the affectionate squeeze. "I really don't go to the parties anyway."

"I know you don't." Ashley slowed her car down as they approached the road that went to her mother's house. "But there's always the chance you could be pulled over for no reason."

"What should I do if that happens?" Katia mulled the scene around in her head. "What if they illegally search my car or something?"

Ashley seriously considered it then replied, "If something like that comes up then I want you to call me." From the corner of her eye she caught the surprised look on Katia's face. "I'm not saying this because I want to protect you… I mean I do but-"

"Its okay, Ash."

The trooper relaxed now as her girlfriend's uncanny ability to understand her. "I'll handle the cop. You have plenty to worry about with college and-"

"You," teased the young woman.

"Watch it, smartass," threatened Ashley.

Katia chuckled but relaxed in her chair. "Thanks, Ash."

The state trooper winked at her lover then she focused on the left turn into her mother's driveway.

"Ready for this?" tormented Katia.

"Mmmm… you owe me for this, K." Ashley parked her car off to the side then cut the engine off.

"Ooo you'll get over it, you mother neglecter." Katia swatted her lover's side then hastily fled by jumping out of the car. She came around the rear of the car and paused as Ashley approached her. "Besides, you should have come here for your birthday when your mom invited you." The state trooper's mouth opened but Katia got the jump on her. "No." She held up her index finger in warning at Ashley. "Going out on a date with me is a really bad excuse. I could tell your mother was really disappointed you didn't come down." She said nothing else then marched off to the front door.

Ashley finally snapped her jaw shut and stared at her lover's back. Since when did Katia start giving the lectures between them? The dynamics of their relationship had definitely changed over these months and Ashley was almost sure she was enjoying them since there was a silly grin on her face.

Katia stood in front of the heavy wood door to the house. She pivoted on her foot and gazed back at her lover. "Come on, Ash. Stop stalling."

The trooper silently chuckled while muttering, "I wasn't stalling… just appreciating." She headed across the stone driveway, stepped onto the brick patio, and come up to her lover, who was knocking on the door. Slowly she glowed by her smile when her mother opened the door to greet them.

"It's so wonderful to see you both." Mrs. Carver first absorbed Katia into a hug then stepped up to her daughter.

Katia folded her arms over her chest and enjoyed the scene of mother and daughter in a long hug. She sighed happily and it made her think of her mother.

"How are you, dear?" Katherine Carver pulled back yet her hands were on her daughter's hips. "You look well."

"Mother," argued the daughter. "I'm fine, thanks. How are you?"

"Better now that I've finally seen you." Katherine's eyes were easily level with her daughters, being as tall as her own child. "You know-"

"I know, I know." Ashley fought off the attack before it happened. "I'm sorry."

The mother studied her child and could tell she was sincere.

"Now can we come inside?"

Katherine's serious expression broke with a beautiful smile. "Of course. Come on." She led the couple into the warm house.

"Mother, you really need to invest in central air," complained Ashley.

"I have it in the bedroom that's enough for me." Katherine had the door closed then stepped around the young women. "Come to the kitchen, I'm working on dinner."

Ashley paused and took a moment to immerse in the familiar smell. "Mmmm."

Katia was in the doorway to the dining room and she glanced back at her lover with a smirk. "Peanut butter brownies."

"Mmmmm," again murmured the excited trooper.

Katia chuckled then vanished into the dining room.

"I just rather skip to dessert," muttered Ashley as she followed after her girlfriend and mother. She entered the kitchen and took a seat at the stool next to her girlfriend.

Katherine was by the cupboards and asking, "Would you like something to drink, Katia?"

"Yeah that'd be great."

Katherine retrieved two glasses from the cupboard. She already knew what her daughter wanted without asking and she went to the fridge with the glasses settled on the counter. "Ice tea, Coke, water, milk, apple juice?"

"The tea would be great." Katia watched Ashley's mother fill the glasses both with tea then bring them over to the couple.

"How were your grades this semester?" Katherine went to the stove and pulled a lid off a pot. She started stirring the contents.

"Really good actually."

Ashley grinned at her girlfriend then look to her mother. "Katia had a 3.8 this past semester."

"That's excellent, Katia."

The college student faintly reddened. "I was a bit annoyed though… I had one B in one of my subjects. I could have gotten a 4.0 this semester."

Katherine shook her head as she put the wood spoon down in the middle of the stove. "It's an excellent grade point average, Katia so don't deny that of yourself." She turned the burner down for the pot then approached the oven. She pulled the lid down and peered into it, her vision filled by brownies slightly bubbling.

"Did Ashley tell you that she's going to SU in the fall?"

Ashley suddenly cringed when her mother faced her with a glower.

Katia slightly cringed too at her mistake but she held her gaze on Katherine.

Katherine crossed the distance and sat at the stool at the head of the island table. "No, she failed to mention it." Her eyes though were only on Ashley. "I seem to be missing out on a lot of things these days."

Ashley scratched at her neck while she looked everywhere but at her mother. She even started playing with her glass of ice tea when the silence hung between them all.

Katia though saved the day. "Ashley only recently decided to go because her captain requested her to go. Right, Ash?"

The trooper glanced at her lover then lowered her gaze with a silent nod.

Katherine suddenly reached out and grabbed her daughter's fiddling hands on the wet glass. She cupped the large hands into her own then softly stated, "I'm proud of you, Ashlinn." When worried blue eyes met her she continued speaking. "I wish I'd known sooner."

"I know," murmured Ashley, "I just didn't want to… get your hopes up… after last time."

Katia curiously wondered what that last time was and she made a mental note to ask her girlfriend later.

"Its all in the past now… you've grown since then," reminded the mother. "Have you told your father?" At the shake of Ashley's head, she suggested, "You need to soon before he hears it from somebody else… namely your little brother."

Ashley huffed at the mention of Lucus and what he would tell their father about it. "I will," she promised.

Katherine patted her child's top hand then released her hold. "So tell me about your plans." She stood up from the table and returned to the stove. "I want to hear what you both have been up to."

Ashley and Katia exchanged knowing glances and Katia giggled first. This would prove to be a very lengthy and interesting conversation with Ashley's mother.



Continued.