Rebecka glanced down at the closed circuit screen as she watched the shoppers darting around the first floor in Weinberger's Department Store. The movement was random and harried, with shoppers shoving one another in an effort to get to the merchandise before another person picked it up. She shook her head in disbelief at the unnatural frenzy that was happening within the store on the day after Thanksgiving. Rebecka hated this time of year, the false displays of cheerfulness in order to make money, the hustle and bustle for bargains that were not really bargains. She hated to see so many people act cheerful until something or someone rubbed them the wrong way. It was then that real humanity exhibited itself as customers got into verbal sparring matches with the occasional fistfight thrown into the melee.

Rebecka's job was to watch the closed circuit TV for shoplifters and those patrons that wantonly destroyed store merchandise without any good reason. She may not celebrate Christmas herself, but she disliked the way that customers related Christmas to shopping and purchases. Rebecka didn't really hate Christmas but rather the time of year. It was during the Christmas holidays last year that her partner of five years separated from her. She didn't understand what had gone wrong. She was attentive, affectionate, and took care of the household so her mate wouldn't have to worry about it. Rebecka couldn't believe that her partner would simply move out without leaving a message or waiting to talk with her. Rebecka had called a friend of theirs who gave her the news that her lover would not be back. It had taken months to get over the loss of not having her in her life.

Rebecka felt that she was finally taking control of her own life again. She was young, healthy and if she were to listen to others, very attractive. She had thick, incredibly wavy, chestnut brown hair and soulful brown eyes that would twinkle with glee at a moment's notice. She was tall for her gender, being just shy of six feet. She was lean, giving the appearance of almost being gaunt, but that was false as the lithe muscles in her body gave evidence. Her complexion was dark olive and blemish free. Her lips were a lush dark rose that generally smiled easily at everyone.

As Rebecka reflected over the past few months, she glanced at the screen and observed some very bizarre behavior occurring on the sales floor. As she watched, she noted a young woman with her pocket book open. She saw the young woman remove an object from her pocketbook and place it on the counter, partially hidden beneath some silk scarves. Rebecka zoomed the lens of the camera in on the object and took note that it was a watch with the store tags still attached.

"How should I handle this?" she asked herself. She had never had a thief return items rather than taking them. Rebecka reached out and manually assumed control of the floor camera in order to follow the young woman's progress through the store. As she watched, she grabbed her pad and pen to write down a description of the young woman should she later need it. Note to self, she penned, height: five feet five or six inches, weight: between 115 and 125, hair: platinum blonde (could be bleached it is so pale), race: Caucasian, eye color: unknown. At least with this information recorded, Rebecka felt she would be better able to tie any incidents back to the perpetrator since closed circuit camera tapes were not allowed as evidence.

As Rebecka continued to observe the young woman, she watched her reach into her coat pocket and place what looked like a boxed bottle of perfume back onto the jewelry counter as she walked past it on her way to lingerie. As she neared the escalator in the lingerie department, Rebecka watched her walk up to a distinguished looking elderly woman. She could see as the young woman reached out and laid her hand on the elderly woman's arm, shaking her head in a negative manner. She watched her take the older woman's hand in hers and lead her to the escalator. By the time Rebecka was able to switch camera angles on her screen, the odd couple had totally slipped from sight. Oh well, thought Rebecka, I hope that I didn't make a wrong decision in not calling the floor security to pick them up. She returned to watching the monitor for any further signs of theft in her assigned watch area.

*****

The weeks passed quickly and Christmas was just a few days away. The store stayed busy with constant shoppers scrambling around looking for last minute bargains. Rebecka continued to monitor her screen for shoplifters and wanton destruction. There had been a good rash of thefts lately but the objects always reappeared in another department with all tags still in place as if it had been intentionally placed there. Rebecka watched her monitor and tapes from some of the other cameras but was never able to see the platinum blonde on screen again. Although the incidents seemed similar, she was never able to tie them together.

Late into the shift, Rebecka received a call from the front office asking her to come to the store manager's office in one hour. She was nervous, wondering if she may have made an error in the last arrest that was booked. She ran different scenarios around in her head trying to anticipate what the topic of the meeting might be. Nothing came to mind. As the clock swept closer to the hour, Rebecka reached up and ran her fingers through her hair, hoping to tame the wildness just a little. It was a hopeless situation and her hair continued to bounce freely around her face and head. She checked over her outfit, noting she looked neat and professional. Okay, nothing to do but face the lion in his den, she said to herself as she closed the door to her booth and headed down the hall.

Rebecka knocked on the door of Mr. Hansen's office, and then waited patiently for the invitation to enter. Hansen didn't care for Rebecka and he made no bones about it. She had recently turned down his invitation to dinner and a show. Not wanting to hurt his feelings, she simply stated she had a prior engagement. As so frequently happens, she ran into Hansen in the lobby of the theater where she had gone with her date. Unfortunately, her date had been hanging on to her tightly and she had leaned over frequently to nuzzle Rebecka's neck while they were in line waiting for the show to open. Hansen took one look at her date, mouthed the word 'dyke', shot her the bird, and left the area. He had not spoken with her again until today's request to come to his office.

"Come in," the gruff voice called out as Hansen remained seated behind his desk.

"You wanted to see me, sir?" Rebecka asked as she entered the office. Thank goodness, we're not alone in the office, thought Rebecka as she noticed another woman seated on a chair next to his desk.

"Well, Larry, aren't you going to introduce us?" the attractive middle-aged woman said in a refined, quiet voice.

"Ahhhh?yes, dear. Mary, this is Rebecka Goldstein. Rebecka, this is my wife, Mary Hansen," he said with reluctance.

Mary stood up and walked over to Rebecka where she reached out and shook hands with her. "I am very pleased to meet you. In fact, I asked my husband to have you here today, specifically, so that I could meet you."

Rebecka took a small step back, slightly startled by Mrs. Hansen's statement. Mary went on to say, "The security company highly recommends you as an excellent employee with a history for spotting a thief before any crimes are committed. You may not be aware but my Mother, Mrs. Weinberger, the owner of this store, always hosts the annual Christmas party for the city council. With the rash of thefts that have been occurring, we would like to have someone circulating among the guests to keep an eye on the jewelry that will be worn. My husband has assured me that your hours will be changed in order that you may come to the party and be the security we need."

"Well, I ?." Rebecka started to say.

"No, don't even try to weasel out of this one, Goldstein. This is part of your job," grumbled Hansen as he looked toward both women.

"Then I guess I have no choice. I'll be there, Mrs. Hansen. What time and where?" Rebecka replied reluctantly.

"Humm, well it is being held at mother's house, 316 North Broward Lane. It is on
December twenty third. If you can get there around eight in the evening, that should give you enough time to check out the rooms being set aside for the party." Mary Hansen instructed as she walked back to her chair.

"Oh, by the way, it is a formal, black tie affair." Mrs. Hansen stated as an afterthought.

"Just fucking great," Rebecka mumbled under her breath.

Mr. Hansen whipped around and staring at her said in a harsh voice, "Did you say something?"

"Oh?no sir. I must have mumbled that I needed to get back to work if we are finished here." Rebecka replied as Hansen stood up to walk her to the door.

As Larry Hansen closed the door a little too briskly, his wife stood up preparing to leave, also. Pulling on her coat, she remarked, "I like that young woman. She is going to make a nice addition to the party."

"What? That dyke bitch?" Hansen replied as he moved over to walk his wife out.

"Don't forget, dear, my sister is also gay," she replied as she tapped him lightly on the cheek before leaving his office. As she was leaving the store, she spotted Rebecka headed toward the escalator to the second floor and thought to herself, "humm, this should be a real interesting party for Jayce."

"Fucking dykes," Hansen mumbled under his breath as he returned to his desk, once more caught up in work.

*****

The days slipped by at a frantic pace as the holidays drew closer. Crowds filled the store, making the security team tense as they were on alert from the time the doors opened till they closed late at night. Rebecka remained in her closet, wishing again the season were over as her eyes burned constantly from always scanning the images on the screen in front of her. Finally, it was nearing the end of her shift. Nevertheless, this was one ending she really dreaded, as tonight was the night of her command performance to attend the Hansen's party. She was not looking forward to it at all.

Suddenly, she noted the same platinum blonde haired woman on screen that she had seen putting merchandise back earlier in the month. She was walking through the store with the same handsome, elderly woman. She had her armed linked with the older woman so it was apparent that they either knew each other well or were family. Rebecka watched as they walked up to the perfume counter where the testers were on display. She watched 'beauty', as she dubbed the blonde-haired woman to herself, lift up one of the bottles, and lightly spritz herself. Rebecka smiled because she knew, even from her location, that the woman now walked around with the flowery smell of Cool Waters. Rebecka could nearly sense the odor, the smell of citrus and pineapple all accompanied by the scent of pure ocean air. She loved the smell of this particular perfume on women. Rebecka thought about how she preferred to use a perfume called 273 Rodeo Drive. Its exotic blend of flowers, tuberoses, gardenia, jasmine, and spices was the perfect scent for her body.

Watching the women, Rebecka noted the older one slip one of the testers into her pocket as they stood there chatting. She also watched as the younger woman noticed the action, too. 'Beauty' reached out, tapped the older woman on the shoulder, and began talking to her. Her facial features were stern as she relayed whatever message she was giving. Rebecka watched as the older woman sheepishly ducked her head, but did reach into her pocket and sit the bottle back onto the counter. Rebecka had seen enough. She picked up her two-way radio and called her counterpart on the main floor. As soon as she got confirmation that he was on the way to apprehend both women, Rebecka left the booth to go down and identify them.


Rebecka darted her vision side to side, looking at the faces of people she passed as she made her way to the cosmetics counter. She could see Randolph standing at the counter but there did not appear to be anyone else with him. "God damn, where in the hell did they go?" she thought to herself as she got closer.

"Randolph, where the heck are the women that I asked you to hold?" she demanded gruffly as she walked up.

"Ugg?what women? I got here and didn't see a soul," Randolph looked everywhere but at Rebecka. "They must have walked off as soon as you buzzed me, 'cause weren't nobody here when I got here."

"Are you sure? You couldn't have missed them. One was an elderly woman in what looked to be a mink coat. The other was a dazzling platinum blonde in a camel trench coat," she described to Randolph.

"Nope, didn't see either of them. Well, I got to get back over to the door. Let me know if you need me again," he replied as he turned and briskly walked away.

"Well, that certainly was the pits," Rebecka remarked out loud, as she unconsciously reached out and picked up the bottle of Cool Waters perfume.

The sales clerk leaned over the counter saying, "Excuse me, Miss, Do you need some assistance?"

Rebecka, looking into her hand and seeing the bottle for the first time, blushingly replied, "No, sorry, just looking," turned and left.

"Thank God, my shift is over," Rebecka remarked to herself as she headed for the
Employee's Lounge. She grabbed the covered outfit that she had picked up during her lunch break, for the party tonight. One advantage of working in the Mall, she mused, was getting to pick up what she needed almost as soon as she needed it; no special trips back just to shop. She clocked out and headed for home to get ready for the Christmas party at the Weinberger's estate.

*****

The apartment was empty and slightly cool as Rebecka entered, turning on lights as she walked through the rooms to her bedroom. It seemed so cold and lifeless since her partner had moved out. Rebecka found she used it simply as a place to keep her clothes and sleep. She seldom entertained or had friends over anymore.

It, however, was a beautiful apartment located in one of the better districts of town. The up and coming professionals that worked about town coveted the location. It was the perfect entertainment center if one can say that about an apartment. The living room was large with a huge plate-glass window that looked down over the valley. One wall encompassed a fireplace that drew attention to it as soon as the room was entered. Rebecka had not lit a fire since last Christmas. The kitchen was directly off the end of the dining room and screamed for gourmet meals to be prepared within. Instead, all it housed was left over Chinese cardboard containers in its side-by-side refrigerator.

There were two bedrooms of equal size, a very unusual commodity in this town. Rebecka had always shared her lover's room so when she left, Rebecka simply moved back into her room where there were less memories. Her room also had the wall-to-wall window overlooking the valley. She had always loved this room more, but her partner hated the thought of someone possibly looking in the window at them. Rebecka wondered who could possibly see fourteen floors up. If they did manage to look in, what would they see from that distance? Rather than rock the boat, she had simply moved from her room into the other bedroom.

Rebecka laid her package on the bed as she began to undress. She knew she had only an hour to complete her toiletry and get to the party on time. She did not want to be late and cause any more friction between herself and Hansen. She tossed her underclothes into the clothesbasket as she padded naked into the bathroom. She caught a glimpse of herself in the full-length mirror as she turned to step into the shower. She paused, taking a critical look at her body. She liked what she saw. She was tall but nicely muscled and trim. Her breasts were pert and needed no support to keep them held nicely in place. Her European coloring was such that she looked tanned all over, even though she seldom found time to play in the sun. Her rich chestnut hair seemed as unruly as usual but she had grown accustomed to its 'just ruffled' look she had dealt with all her life. Her brown eyes stared back at her with the hint of sadness that had been so much a part of her life lately. Reaching out, she picked up the hairclip, pinning her long hair up as she stepped into the shower.

Following her shower, Rebecka picked up a bottle of 237 Rodeo Drive perfume and sprayed a small amount in the air in front of her body. She walked forward, letting the fine mist land on her as she headed back into the bedroom. Reaching her dresser, she reached in and drew out a pair of black silk boxers, slipping them quickly over her slim hips. She walked to the bed and removed the plastic from the clothing she had carried in earlier. Reaching down, she picked up and pulled on the slim black leather pants, leaving them unzipped for the moment. She took out the white silk shirt and slipped it over her arms and chest. The feeling of silk against her breast was erotic. She sighed deeply as she buttoned the shirt. Tucking it into her pants, she reached down; pulled the zipper up and slipped closed the single button. Rebecca walked over to the dresser, removing a pair of black socks, which she slipped on her feet. Walking to the closet, she pulled out a pair of black leather spat boots. Moving back to the bed, she lifted up the black leather vest, and headed back into the bathroom, slipping the vest over her white shirt. She buttoned the vest as she looked critically at herself in the mirror. She was sleek and sharp like a black panther getting ready to pounce on some unsuspecting prey. Turning to the sink, she quickly ran the brush through her hair and returned to the bed, picking up her matching black leather dress jacket before walking out of the room. She stopped by the dresser on her way out and slipped her billfold into the inside pocket of her jacket. She dropped the car keys into the side pocket as she quickly walked out of the apartment, turning out all but one light.

It took less than thirty minutes to reach her destination. As she pulled up to the front of the house, a parking valet met her. She handed him her keys and proceeded toward the front door. The butler stood at the door dressed in Christmas green, letting in all guests as soon as they arrived. Rebecka lined up behind several other early couples waiting to go through the greeting line that was set up inside the foyer. As she stepped through the door, four sets of eyes turned and stared at her appearance, watching as she walked closer to them. Larry Hansen grimaced thinking to himself "what a fucking dyke, who did she think she was waltzing in here looking like a god damn man." Standing next to him, Mary Hansen looked at Rebecka, thinking, "My god, she looks good enough to eat. Jayce is going to start drooling."

Rebecka shook hands with Mr. Hansen, who tried to crush her fingers but found that her hand was actually much stronger than his was as he shook out his fingers when she finally let go. Next, Mrs. Hansen touched her fingers to Rebecka's hand while pulling her slightly to the side.

"My goodness you look ravishing tonight," Mary Hansen remarked with a gleam in her eye. "I want to introduce you to Mother and my sister. Hold on just a minute," Mary said to her as she stepped out of the line.

As Rebecka turned toward the last two women, her eyes did a double take. Standing before her were the two women that she had been looking for this afternoon. It was all she could do to keep her mouth from dropping open. Mary stepped forward and touched the older woman's arm, drawing her attention to them.

"Mother, I would like you to meet Rebecka Goldstein. Rebecka this is my mother, Mrs. Helen Weinberger," Mary said as she made the first set of introductions.

Rebecka reached out, took the frail hand into hers, and gently shook it in greeting, saying, "Very nice to meet you ma'am. Thank you for inviting me into your home."

Mrs. Weinberger looked up at her, remarking, "My, what a tall woman you are. Thank you for coming." She dropped Rebecka's hand and seemed to fade back into a quiet confused state of mind as she remained standing but looking idly around the foyer.

The last person in line was none other than the mysterious platinum blonde that Rebecka had watched so closely over the two occasions she had chanced to see on her the cameras.
Mary pulled Rebecka gently by the sleeve until they were standing in front of a true vision of loveliness. She looked first into the shimmering forest green eyes that gleamed with vitality. As Rebecka ran her eyes over the woman in front of her, she noted the blonde hair swept up into a coffered swirl pinned to the side of her head with just a feathering of bangs touching her forehead. The style drew attention to her neck upon which rested a diamond necklace that picked up the colors of the room and shimmered like a rainbow. Rebecka moved her eyes downward, taking in the dress before her. It was a satin ball gown with an a-line skirt in regal red. Delicate spaghetti straps held the bodice up. The left side was gathered and the skirt fell with a flounce barely brushing the floor. Matching red satin shoes peeked from beneath the skirt. A matching wrap draped across her arms and circled around behind her, completing the look of refined sophistication.

Mary stepped back, watching as her sister and Rebecka stared at one another. After a few minutes, she moved up closer to finish the introductions.

"Jayce, this is Rebecka Goldstein. Rebecka, this is my sister, Jayce Weinberger." Mary looked to see what would happen.

Rebecka reached out her hand and took the one that Jayce extended to her. As soon as their fingers touched, a faint tingling passed between them. Rebecka clasped Jayce's hand more firmly saying, "The pleasure is all mine." She gently lifted Jayce's hand to her mouth and placed a soft kiss on the back of her hand.

Jayce's breath caught in her throat as she looked at the tantalizing woman standing before her. Rebecka was everything that Jayce had always dreamed of but thought never to find. She smiled a radiant smile, looked directly into Rebecka's eyes, and said, "Thank you for coming. I am so happy to meet you. I look forward to getting to know you better."

Mary reached out and again took Rebecka by the arm, talking as she walked her down the hall. "Rebecka, I expect you to mingle among all the guests just as if you are a guest, which you are. Just keep your eyes open for any suspicious activity. I don't anticipate any problems but we want to be sure everything is covered. I expect to see you dance and have fun along with everyone else."

Rebecka could only nod her head as the vision of Jayce ran once more through her mind. She knew this was someone she wanted to get to know better. She had not been this sexually attracted to anyone in nearly a year.

As Rebecka moved to walk into the ballroom where the other guests and band were, she glanced back over her shoulder and noted that Jayce was also peering around a new guest, looking at her. Their eyes met, held a few seconds before a slow smile was exchanged between them, a smile that said, I WILL see you later.

*****

Christmas music played softly in the background as Rebecka moved slowly around the room, memorizing the names and faces of all the people she was meeting. She was amazed and a little overwhelmed by the amount of jewelry she saw on display this evening. It seemed that every woman must have pulled all the diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and pearls out of their jewelry boxes just to wear on this occasion. The room shimmered as the lights bounced off the prism cuts of the stones. It gave the occasion a surreal feeling and lead to the enchantment of the evening.

A couple of hours passed without Rebecka seeing anything out of the ordinary. People mingled, ate, talked, and on occasion, danced as the night continued. Rebecka caught many glimpses of Jayce through the ever-increasing crowds but had not had the opportunity to talk with her again. However, she did note that nearly every time she looked at Jayce, Jayce's eyes seemed to be following her around the room.

As Rebecka stared across the room at Jayce, the butler stepped into the room and announced in a loud, sonorous voice, "Dinner is served. Please proceed to the dining area."

Rebecka hung back as the crowd surged toward the dining room, rapidly emptying the ballroom. As she watched the revelers moving out, she felt a slight tug on her sleeve. She turned, looked beside her, and noted that Jayce had walked up while she was waiting for the crowd to thin out before going in herself.

Rebecka turned slightly toward her, quirking up an eyebrow as if to say "Yes." Jayce smiled softly at her expression and said, "I was hoping that you would take me in to dinner. I don't have a companion this evening and everyone else seems to be paired off."

"I would be glad to but don't you have designated seating near the head of the table?" Rebecka asked.

"Yes, I do. I also have a seat that is vacant next to me for my partner, should I have desired to have one this evening. As it is, I would like you to join me, that is if you want to," Jayce asked more tentatively.

"I would be delighted. That is the best offer that I have had in a long time." Rebecka said as she placed her hand against the small of Jayce's back leading her in to dinner.

Again, Rebecka felt the tingling sensation in her fingers as she encountered Jayce's body. Jayce also felt burning warmth along her back that seemed to originate from Rebecka's hand. Jayce's breath caught with a slight hitch as she started walking toward the dining room.

Mary Hansen noted her sister, Jayce, and Rebecka walk through the door together. She leaned toward her mother and said, "Mother, don't they make a striking couple? Jayce is so bright in contrast to the darkness of Rebecka."

Mrs. Weinberger looked up from her soup, pausing long enough to say, "Damn right they look good together. I hope to hell this one keeps her occupied and off my back. Jayce has been trailing around behind me for weeks now. Nothing I can do will shake her off following me. Will you pass the rolls?"

After taking a roll from the dish, Mrs. Weinberger looked up as Jayce and Rebecka moved closer. Leaning toward her daughter, Mary, she whispered, "Who is that young woman with Jayce. Don't they look lovely together?"

Mary just shook her head realizing her mother was not doing well tonight. It saddened her to know that she was slowly succumbing to the affects of advanced Alzheimer's.

Rebecka seated Jayce before pulling out her own chair and joining the dinner party.

*****

Dinner lasted nearly an hour until all the liqueurs were drunk and toasts were made, celebrating the holiday season. Rebecka had been able to exchange some small talk with Jayce but the noise around them made it nearly impossible to have a quiet conversation. As it was, their legs brushed frequently as they were sitting tightly side by side and the other felt every moment one made. As the diners began moving back into the ballroom, strands of dance music filled the air. The band was playing smooth, soft music designed to draw the more romantic couples out onto the dance floor.

Rebecka walked back into the room slightly behind Jayce. She was admiring the way Jayce's hips were swaying as she walked when Rebecka took one more step and bumped into the back of Jayce, not realizing she had stopped. She thrust out her arm and wrapped it around Jayce's waist, pulling her snugly back against her body to keep Jayce from tumbling forward. Jayce lay quietly against Rebecka before drawing herself away.

Jayce turned, looked deep into Rebecka's dark brown eyes, and asked; "Would you please dance with me?"

"Here? Now?" Rebecka asked in surprise.

"Yes. Here! Now!" replied Jayce as she held out her hand for Rebecka to take.

Moving together, they stepped out onto the dance floor. They slipped into one another's arms as if this was something they had done day of their lives. The way they fit against one another was perfect. Rebecka slid one arm around Jayce's waist while laying the other one over her shoulder, lightly touching the back of Jayce's head with her hand. Jayce slid both her hands inside Rebecka's jacket and pushed her thumbs beneath Rebecka's waistband at the back of her pants. Jayce laid her head against Rebecka's chest as they began to sway slowly with the music. Rebecka's legs brushed against Jayce's thighs as they turned in time to the music.

Rebecka laid her cheek against Jayce's hair and smiled softly as the hypnotic scent of Cool Waters drifted up to her nose. She thought briefly of earlier today, tightening her grip just a little tighter thinking that they might never have met. Jayce tilted her head slightly upward until she was snuggled just beneath Rebecka's chin. She inhaled deeply, loving the spicy smell next to her face. She flicked out her tongue and tentatively touched it to Rebecka's pulse point as they continued to circle the ballroom.

Rebecka could feel her nipples tightening as Jayce continued to brush lightly against them. They peaked, rigid and hard, rubbing against the silk of her shirt, making her tingle deep inside her womanhood. She missed a step as Jayce licked her neck. Her own breath became ragged as her pulse increased and she pulled Jayce tighter into her body. She pressed her pelvis more snuggly against Jayce's stomach, grinding ever so slowly as the music continued.

Rebecka looked up and noted a secluded alcove directly behind her. There was a large sprig of mistletoe hanging from the arch. She steered Jayce toward the alcove before anyone else decided to slip inside. As she danced Jayce under the mistletoe, Rebecka stopped. She stepped back and smiled gently into Jayce's green eyes. Without a word,
she tilted her head upward, looking at the mistletoe. This caused Jayce to look up, too. As Jayce uttered a small gasp, Rebecka leaned down and pressed her lips softy to Jayce's mouth. She pulled back just a little bit, looking down at Jayce. Jayce's lips parted slightly just far enough to breathe lightly through her mouth. Rebecka moved her head to one side so their noses would not crush against one another. Their noses nestled against each other's cheeks as their lips touched again.

As Rebecka's lips touched Jayce's lips, she stretched out her tongue, which caused Jayce's mouth to open wider. Rebecka circled the tip of her tongue around the tip of Jayce's tongue. As Jayce sucked lightly on Rebecka's tongue, Rebecka pressed more of it into Jayce's mouth. Rebecka moved her head slightly in a circular motion, pressing deeper. She pulled back and while Jayce's lips were still parted, she sucked Jayce's bottom lip for just a few seconds before pressing her lips back hard against Jayce's mouth, sucking deeply, drawing the breath from Jayce.

It ended as quickly as it began. They stood quietly wrapped in each other's arms as the music continued. Rebecka drew back and took Jayce by the hand, leading her to the bench that lined the wall of the alcove. When they were seated, Rebecka turned to Jayce saying, "Your sister invited me here to watch for thieves, not to seduce her sister. I am ashamed I couldn't leave you alone. I am drawn to you like a moth to a flame."

Jayce reached out and picked up Rebecka's hand, holding it firmly between her own two hands. "Don't say that. Mary told me why you would be here but not what you looked like. I believe that this is her little Christmas present to me. For years, she has heard me describe the perfect woman for me. You are everything I have ever desired. Mary thinks I have been alone way too long."

Stroking Rebecka's hand gently, Jayce continued, "I am very attracted to you. It is as if I have known you all my life."

Rebecka, still feeling guilty, gripped Jayce's hand back saying, "This is not the first time I have seen you."

"Oh, I don't remember having met you," remarked Jayce.

"You?didn't. I?I was watching you on a closed circuit camera as you were returning items in the store," Rebecka managed to finally say.

"Oh my God," Jayce said drawing back just a little on the seat. "I need to explain what is going on. God, it is way too noisy for me to discuss this here."

Standing up, Jayce reached out her hand for Rebecka saying, "Come on, let's go upstairs to my room where I can tell you what is happening."

Rebecka stood and followed. As they pressed through the crowd, Jayce was pushed frequently back against Rebecka. Each time her hips brushed against the front of Rebecka's pants, Rebecka felt a surge of desire. She finally stretched out one arm and encircled Jayce's waist, holding her close to her side as they continued up the stairs to Jayce's room.

*****

Moving further into the bedroom where they could talk privately, Rebecka removed her jacket and laid it across the foot of the bed. The room was very warm from the open fireplace where a fire burned softly in the dimly lit room.

"Come a little closer and tell me about your mother," Rebecka whispered.

"Closer like this?" Jayce asked, moving a fraction of an inch closer, a sly grin upon her face as she waited for Rebecka's reaction.

"More like this!" Rebecka said, grabbing Jayce about the waist and pulling her closer, their bodies now pressed together.

"I don't think I can concentrate on Mother being this close to you," Jayce murmured, nibbling Rebecka's bottom lip.

"My point exactly!" Rebecka said, catching Jayce's lips with her own and giving her a warm kiss. Jayce's body shivered from the gentleness. It was like that first kiss all over again. It seemed every time Rebecka kissed her, all thoughts disappeared and she became weak to Rebecka's touch. She felt Rebecka's hands slide from her waist to her back as Rebecka pulled her tighter to her. Rebecka's lips hungrily sought hers now; Rebecka's tongue shyly passed Jayce's lips, and slowly stroked her tongue.

A soft moan escaped Jayce's lips as Rebecka's hand caressed her from her back to her hips. Softly she whispered, "My God, you are so lovely!"

This time, Jayce pulled Rebecka to her, kissed her as she ran her fingers through Rebecka's hair, and then trailed them over her shoulders. She pressed her leg between Rebecka's as she pushed her hips forward into her. Their bodies drew closer with every breath. Jayce bit Rebecka's bottom lip as her hands ran down her back and tugged her shirt out of her pants.

"Come closer" Jayce whispered to Rebecka in a husky voice as she pulled Rebecka's shirt and vest off, tossing them on the bed. Jayce couldn't wait to touch Rebecka's skin, to feel it under her hands as she ran them over Rebecka's bare shoulders and back.

Their kisses became a little more probing, and a lot less shy. Rebecka's hands moved over Jayce's shoulders and pushed the thin straps of her dress aside. Moaning, Jayce let her head fall back as Rebecka started trailing kisses down her neck and across her shoulders. Jayce's body reacted to every kiss and caress. Their breathing became a little more rapid. Jayce enjoyed the feeling of Rebecka's hand as she covered her breast, and gently massaged it.

Jayce wanted Rebecka to slide her top down so she could feel her hands on her skin, Rebecka's lips kissing her. Intuitively, Rebecka felt Jayce's need as she reached behind her and pulled the zipper slowly down, opening Jayce's dress. Rebecka let her hands drift under Jayce's top as she pushed the straps off her arms, letting the top drop down. Rebecka stared at Jayce's body; "so beautiful," she thought. With trembling fingers, she stroked over Jayce's stomach and then reached for her breasts. The pleasure of that first touch was indescribable. Jayce had been aching for that touch since the moment Rebecka started kissing her. Her nipples became taut, aching to be teased and tasted.

Slowly, Rebecka took Jayce's breast in her hands and began to nuzzle them. The sensuous feeling of her tongue swirling around Jayce's nipples as she took one into her mouth caused Jayce's body to tremble from sheer pleasure. Resting her hands on Rebecka's shoulders, she massaged them to encourage her to keep going.

"Kiss me!" Jayce gasped, caught up in the electric current running through her body. She wanted to taste Rebecka's lips, to feel Rebecka's body over hers, Rebecka's chest pressed against hers.

Rebecka crushed her lips to Jayce's with such intensity that Jayce could hardly stifle a gasp. Jayce ran her hands over Rebecka's hips to the waist of her pants where she found the button and started to tease her with her hand. With every kiss, Rebecka pressed into her and Jayce could feel how incredibly turned on she was as Rebecka trembled against her. Jayce slowly ran her hand over the front of Rebecka's pants. She was rewarded with a soft groan. She seductively teased her longer, wanting to make Rebecka ache for her even more. Rebecka buried her face into Jayce's neck as she waited; hoping Jayce would open up her pants and slide her hand inside them. Turning her head, Jayce whispered into her ear. "Make love to me...please."

Rebecka's hands slowly moved over Jayce's stomach and down to her hips. She pushed the dress lower, watching as it pooled around Jayce's feet. Jayce now stood before Rebecka dressed only in a tiny pair of red bikini underwear, a red garter belt, hose, and high heels. Rebecka began massaging Jayce's thighs while her lips teased Jayce's mouth. Seductively, she ran her hand up Jayce's thigh and parted it from the other to stroke between her legs. Much to her delight, Jayce moaned loudly and pushed her hips forward against her hand.

Out of sheer desire and urgency, Jayce tugged at the button on Rebecka's pants and opened them, wanting to feel Rebecka against her hand, eagerly anticipating the groan that she would hear the moment her fingers gently stroked her. Rebecka shifted her weight to help Jayce remove her boots and pants. They tossed them onto the growing pile of clothes.

Jayce ran her hand over Rebecka's boxers and noticed she has stopped kissing her. It is becoming increasingly difficult for Rebecka to concentrate as she anticipated Jayce's touch. Slowly, Jayce slipped inside her boxers and smiled upon hearing Rebecka suck in her breath. Jayce wanted to make Rebecka moan and beg her to let her take her. It took a practiced hand to make a woman weak like this. Jayce could feel Rebecka getting wetter as her stroking hastened.

With both of them now moving into each other, soft moans replaced words, hands teased and played with each other. Gently, Rebecka unhooked Jayce's stockings from the garter and pushed them slowly down her legs, her hands leisurely making their way to Jayce's inner thigh.

"Oh, please!" Jayce begged as, with every stroke up her leg, Rebecka came closer to her now very wet bikinis.

"Mmm?, be patient" Rebecka teased as her fingers drifted along the edge of Jayce's red panties. There is no hiding how much she wanted Rebecka. Jayce shivered at every touch and shifted her hips enticing Rebecka to touch her.

Still teasing around the edge of her panties, Rebecka started kissing her, first her breasts, gently sucking on them. Her tongue flicked over Jayce's nipples and drove her wild. She moved on to nibble and kiss her stomach. She heard a long loud sigh as she slowly rubbed her hand over Jayce's panties.

"Oh baby, maybe we should just stop now, and go back to the party?" Rebecka asked playfully.

"Nooooooooooo," Jayce moaned, completely lost in the feeling of Rebecka's hand still stroking her through her now soaking wet panties. Rebecka's reply was a finger slipping under the elastic and stroking her. Tenderly, she ran it between Jayce's very swollen lips and inside her. She loved the moan and gasp she heard as she slowly teased a finger deeper inside of Jayce's center of desire. Rebecka dropped to her knees in front of Jayce to tease her gently with her lips. She began kissing her thigh and nibbling on it. With painstaking slowness, she removed Jayce's panties.

Amused with Jayce's growing hunger and slight frustration, Rebecka began kissing her legs and thighs again, purposefully avoiding any other contact. She knew Jayce would start swaying her hips, luring her in. She savored this moment of control and enjoyed the hunger in Jayce's eyes, knowing that there was nothing else but this moment on her mind.

Gently, Rebecka again stroked Jayce and pressed two fingers inside of her. Nothing felt better than feeling Jayce's entire body tremble from her touch. When Jayce was ready to lose control, Rebecka lowered her mouth to Jayce's nether lips and softly ran her tongue over her. The trembling became stronger and Jayce sighed loudly as Rebecka's tongue gently licked and swirled. Jayce reached for Rebecka's free hand, squeezing it so hard she winced. As Rebecka felt Jayce getting closer to the edge of ecstasy, she flicked her tongue a little faster. Jayce's entire body shuddered, and Rebecka felt her tighten around her fingers deep inside of her. Rebecka's hand was now crushed in Jayce's hand as Jayce's orgasm roared over her entire body.

With a smug grin, Rebecka rose back up and leaned in to place a very deep, wet kiss on Jayce's lips. Reaching for her, Jayce let her hands roam over Rebecka's body. Rebecka let out a loud gasp as Jayce slid her hand into her boxers and slowly, but with urgency, stroked her. Jayce's mind swam with thoughts of how much she wanted to feel Rebecka pressed against her lower regions. While kissing Rebecka's lips hard, and teasing her tongue with hers, she continued stroking her.

Jayce whispered into Rebecka's ear, "Ohhhhhh, I just have to taste you!" and slowly she moved down her body. She let her hands run over Rebecka's thighs while kissing her neck and chest, still teasing her. Feeling Rebecka's body become tense with anticipation, Jayce reached the waistband of her boxers. She not so gently tugged them off, realizing that she no longer needed to worry about whether that would offend her or not, and recognizing Rebecka wanted them off and Jayce's mouth on her. Now!

Reaching for her, Jayce couldn't help but moan at the sight before her. Knowing full well Rebecka wanted nothing more than to feel Jayce press her mouth against her, she hesitated for a moment and decided to not tease and do just that! She was rewarded by a deep moan from Rebecka. She knew she made the right choice. It was so exquisite the way it felt to run her tongue over Rebecka when she was this aroused, to lick, suck, and taste her, to fight the urge to devour her completely. Rebecka started throbbing at the brink of exploding in Jayce's mouth only to have Jayce stop and wait until Rebecka's breathing slowed down and the throbbing was less intense. Then Jayce began again, not wanting to stop until Rebecka begged to let her cum in her mouth.

All this was driving Jayce crazy. Feeling Rebecka tremble and knowing with one deeper plunge, Rebecka would not be able to hold back, Jayce stopped. She had to feel Rebecka against her, to feel Rebecka clutch her body to her as she pushed herself fast and hard against her. Rebecka walked backward toward the edge of the bed and sat down, pulling Jayce onto her lap. Slowly Jayce ground against Rebecka, moaning and kissing her hard and feeling her so tight against her it almost hurts. It was awkward at first to get a good rhythm. She felt Rebecka's strong hands on her hips guiding her. Jayce's arms wrapped around Rebecka as their breasts rubbed against each other.

Softly, Rebecka murmured, "I want you" into Jayce's ear. Jayce's mind became empty of all thought other than the intensity of how much she wanted to fulfill Rebecka's need. She arched into Rebecka as she felt Rebecka's hands moving up her back, and then massaging her breasts. She urged her body to move faster over Rebecka's mound. Her legs began to tremble with each stroke against her own mound. Jayce couldn't concentrate on kissing Rebecka. Moaning softly, she felt her orgasm building inside of her, felt Rebecka throbbing and knew that Rebecka was desperately trying to hold back and wait for her.

Then Jayce exploded and her entire body shuddered. Rebecka moaned in her ear as she finally let go. Jayce felt Rebecka push hard against her. Jayce crushed her body to Rebecka's, loving the feeling of Rebecka's shuddering with each thrust against her as her orgasm passed over her. Then, finally, their eyes met, a wild look on each of their faces from the passionate moments. They leaned into each other, meeting for a long, loving kiss. Jayce brushed the hair from Rebecka's face and whispered, "I wanted you, too."

*****


While they were redressing, Jayce began telling her the story of her mother and the department store. It really was a simple misunderstanding. Her mother had been diagnosed with advanced stage Alzheimer's less than 12 months ago. She had been growing steadily more confused. One habit that she had acquired during this time was picking up objects and carrying them off with her. She was not aware that she was actually shoplifting or stealing objects that did not belong to her. As it was, Jayce generally took her out to the store when the tedium of staying home became too great for both Jayce and her mother. Just as this afternoon, Jayce had to go to the store to finish some business with her brother-in-law and her mother asked to go along. Neither she nor Mary could ever turn down their mother's pleading requests. Jayce found it easier to just stay with her and replace the objects that her mother picked up as they walked through the store.

Jayce went on to explain that she and Mary had hidden much of the activity from other family members and the employees at the store. Now, the change in her condition was becoming too apparent. They had hired a companion but she would not be able to start work until after the holidays. That date was not a problem as Mary and Jayce wanted to spend this holiday closely with their mother, knowing this could be one of the last that she could enjoy.

Tears ran slowly down Jayce's cheeks as she talked about her mother. Rebecka leaned over and gently wiped them away with the pads of her thumbs. She leaned forward and kissed Jayce gently on the lips saying, "Thanks, Jayce, for letting me know. I certainly will keep it confidential unless you tell me otherwise."

Rebecka pulled Jayce into her arms and held her lovingly as she tried to permeate her strength into Jayce. Rebecka knew the next few months would be very trying on Jayce and her family. She hoped and prayed silently that she would be around to help.

Jayce leaned back within the circle of Rebecka's arms and looked up into her face. Reaching up she placed her hands along side Rebecka's cheeks and said, "I don't know what goddess sent you to me this evening but you have given me love and hope and there is not much more I could ask for. Christmas is truly a time of giving, caring and sharing and you have come into my life when I needed you most."

Jayce pulled Rebecka's face closer to hers as she brushed her lips across Rebecka's lips. Their mouths opened as the kiss deepened and the exchange of love was complete. Rebecka felt as though her heart had been lifted up into the heavens and the heaviness she had carried for so long was no longer present. She was ready to move forward and Jayce was offering her the opportunity to love again. She grasped this new opportunity with both hands. She leaned her forehead against Jayce's forehead and simply said, "You have stolen my heart. Tonight you have been my Thief of Hearts."

Jayce drew back still holding Rebecka's face in her hands. She looked deep into Rebecka's clear brown eyes that no longer held shadows saying, "Merry Christmas, Darling. May all your dreams come true?"

Rebecka smiled down at her, pulling her more snugly against the front of her body as she replied, "Oh yes, my dreams have definitely come true. Merry Christmas to you, too, Sweetheart."

The scene faded, as the lovers were again lost in the wonderment of new love. One was given a second chance at love; the other found a love to support her through the bad times that were to come. As the night faded away, someone downstairs was heard calling: "Merry Christmas to All, and to All a Good Night!"


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