Chapter 23

The courtroom was empty of spectators and reporters. After the fiasco of the previous two days, Judge O'Connell ordered that the courtroom be closed. Johnnie sat in her seat, keeping her emotions in check as a noted psychologist gave testimony about the murder scene and what state of mind the murderer had to have been in.

"In case studies, an attack that vicious had to have been perpetrated by someone who knew the victim. Someone who was incensed beyond reasonable and all rational thought." Dr. Samantha Alui explained.

Abbott smiled at her. "Thank you, Dr. Alui." He turned his attention to the judge. "No more questions for this witness, Your Honor."

The judge turned his seat to face Bob. "Your witness, Mr. Wooten."

"Thank you, Your Honor." Bob stood up and walked toward the witness stand. "Dr. Alui, you have testified to the state of mind that the murder had to have been in. You, as a profiler, are able to conclude that the murderer had some sort of connection to the deceased?"

"That is correct." Dr. Alui flatly stated as she pushed her glasses up from the tip of her nose. "A crime that heinous had to be conceived out of pure hatred."

"So, Dr. Alui, it had to have been done by someone who despised Mayor Ballantine? Is that a fair assessment?" Bob asked.

"Yes."

"Then it could have been anyone? Mayor Ballantine was not the well respected man that he portrayed himself to be, as the evidence clearly states." He countered.

Dr. Alui shifted in her seat. "That could be a possibility."

Bob could sense the air of confidence slipping from the good doctor. "The evidence clearly states that Mayor Ballantine not only had underworld connections, but was also a pedophile." He paused. "So, is it fair to say that anyone that the mayor had crossed could have committed this act?"

"Yes." The doctor reluctantly admitted.

Bob smiled. "In one of your previous cases, there was an instance of a pedophile victim taking revenge on her molester."

"Objection." Abbott yelled. "Relevance, Your honor."

"Overruled." O'Connell was still incensed at the actions that Abbott had taken two days before. "You may answer the question, Doctor."

Dr. Alui shifted uncomfortable in her seat. She had been paid handsomely by the people, and did not want to give the defense a way out. "Yes."

Bob waited for a moment. "Would you describe the scene of the murder in question?"

Alui cleared her throat. "The victim in question was found beaten beyond recognition. Blood was everywhere."

Bob paced in front of the jury. "Had the accused in that case had any public displays of emotion before the killing took place?"

"No."

"Had the accused made any contact with the deceased in that case previous to the murder?"

"No."

"How long had the victim been out of contact with the accused in that case, Doctor?" Bob skillfully asked.

"Three years." Alui regrettably admitted.

"So unspeakable acts of revenge do not have to be played out immediately?" Bob asked. "They can boil and fester like puss from an infected wound?"

"Yes."

Bob smiled. "No further questions for this witness."

Abbott seethed in his chair. Let's see how you handle this witness, Counselor. "The people call Detective Alphonse Petrillo to the stand."

Pizo stood up and walked over the witness stand to be sworn in. He looked at Johnnie and gave her a half-hearted smile.

Abbott walked over to Pizo, pacing back and forth in front of him like a predator stalking his prey. "Detective Petrillo, how long have you been with the Wilmington Police Department?"

"Seventeen years." Pizo curtly stated.

"How long were you partnered with the accused before she retired?" He asked.

"Ms. Green and I were partners for eight years before she retired from the force." Pizo answered.

"Could you give us some insight on the type of person Ms. Green is, please?" Abbott requested.

Pizo looked at Abbott with contempt. "What is it exactly you would like to know?"

Johnnie chuckled quietly at her former partner's arrogance. You get him Pizo.

Abbott sneered at him. "Does the defendant have a temper?"

"When provoked, I would say that she does. I don't know anyone who doesn't." Pizo said.

"Move to strike the witness's last statement, Your Honor." Abbott vehemently said.

"Motion granted." The judge sighed. "Only answer the questions that counsel poses to you, Detective, and refrain from adding commentary."

"Sorry, Your Honor." Pizo quietly said.

"Getting back to the matter at hand, Detective, do you agree that Ms. Green has a temper?" Abbott asked, again. Don't play with me, boy.

"Yes."

"Could you tell the jury what happened at the cemetery following the Martinez boy's funeral?"

"Ballantine came with reporters and it made Johnnie furious. She attacked him." Pizo told them. He looked apologetically at Johnnie. Sorry Bud.

Abbott moved in for the kill. "How did she attack him? Did she say anything?"

"Johnnie roared, and then grabbed Ballantine by this throat causing him to fall to the ground. She told him that she would kill him."

Abbott feigned surprise. "She did? Hmm, interesting." He paused. "Do you think she would have succeeded if she had not been pulled from him?"

"Yes."

Abbott smirked. "Let's move forward, shall we?" He continued to pace in front of Pizo. "Later that day, Ms. Green left her home. Is that correct?"

Pizo straightened himself in his chair. "Yes."

"What time was it when you saw her before she left?"

"I would guess it was around 3 pm."

"Did you know that she had left?"

"No."

"Who discovered that she had left?"

"I did."

"Was she gone for a long time?"

"Yes."

"She had been gone for a long while and Ms. Martinez began to worry. Is that correct?"

"Yes."

"Did anyone go looking for her?"

"Yes. Victoria Krisp and I went out looking for her."

"What time did you find her?"

"Around 1 am."

"Where did you find Ms. Green, and what condition was she in?"

"Tori and I found her wandering the streets downtown. She was very drunk."

"Not only was she drunk, Detective, but she looked as if she had been in a struggle. Is that correct?"

"Yes." Damn you Abbott to hell, you son of a bitch. "Her clothing was in disheveled."

Abbott walked over to the table that held the evidence. He picked up two items encased in plastic and walked back over to Pizo. "These are People's exhibits 2 and 3. Could you read the labels for the jury, please?"

Pizo took the evidence. "Green's blouse, and Green's jacket."

"These are the articles of clothing that Ms. Green was wearing the night in question, are they not?"

"Yes."

"In Forensic reports submitted by the police crime lab technician, the clothing has blood on them. Not only the blood of Ms. Green, but the blood of Mayor Ballantine as well." He paused. "When you found Ms. Green, she was very drunk and looked like she had been in a fight of some sort, correct?"

"Objection, Your Honor." Bob said. "Asked and answered."

Abbott smirked. "Withdrawn." Gotcha. "No further questions."

Bob leaned over to Johnnie. "Don't worry about this. I'm going to do damage control." He patted Johnnie's shoulder and stood up. He walked casually over to Pizo. "Detective Petrillo, could you tell us why, my client was so furious with Mayor Ballantine?"

Pizo straightened in his seat. "Of course I will, Counselor." He paused and looked directly at the jury. "Mayor Ballantine had been making false allegations against Ms. Green. He had been giving press conferences spouting lies about her and her job performance. The reporters began hounding her, and she dealt with it. Then her son was killed when they accosted her family. Ballantine showed up at the funeral with what she believed was the very cause of her son's death. He had no right to be there, and then to show up with reporters was just too much. I don't much blame her, because I wanted to slug him myself. I don't think I know of anyone who wouldn't have reacted the same way."

"I couldn't agree with you more, Detective." Bob somberly said. "Mayor Ballantine brought the very reason for the death of young Phillip to his funeral. You stated in earlier testimony that she attacked him. Did she immediately attack him, or did the Mayor say anything to her?"

"He said that he had come on behalf of the city to extend sympathies."

"Were photographers present or just reporter?"

"Photographers were present, also."

"What were they doing?"

"Taking pictures left and right. You could hear the flashes go off."

"Similar to what Ms. Martinez stated that was going on at the home on the day of Phillip's death?"

"Yes."

"Emotions were running high, and he showed up with the press?"

"Exactly. Johnnie just snapped. She was crying the entire time." Pizo paused. "They had just buried Phillip…"

Johnnie sat and listened to Pizo's testimony. She berated herself for losing control the way she did. If I had only walked away, I wouldn't be in this mess. If I had only stayed home, they wouldn't be able to connect me with Ballantine's murder. I could be at home with Alma, talking about the baby. Tears formed and fell from her eyes. She pulled her handkerchief from her pocket. If it weren't for Ballantine, my son would be here preparing to be a good big brother. I hope Ballantine rots in hell for what he has done.

Bob noticed Johnnie's tears and decided to move on. "When you and Ms. Krisp found my client, you found her in a drunken state, yes?"

"Correct."

"Did she seem agitated in any way?"

"No. She was just staggering in the street."

"Did she try to fight you or Ms. Krisp?"

"No, she was glad to see us."

"Glad to see you? I would expect someone who had just committed murder to be belligerent, even furious."

Abbott leaped from his seat. "Objection!"

The judge looked at Bob. "Counselor, please refrain from making comments until closing arguments."

"Yes, Your Honor. I apologize." Bob said. "Detective, you were at the crime scene, were you not?"

"Yes."

"You saw the condition that the body was in, and how the office looked?"

"Yes."

"Do you agree that it was gruesome?"

Pizo had no idea where Bob was going, but he trusted him. "Yes, it was indeed gruesome."

"Would you say that the murderer had to be absolutely furious?"

"Yes."

"Did my client's demeanor fit that of someone who had committed such a violent act?"

"Absolutely not."

"My client was glad to see you and Ms. Krisp?"

"Yes she was. She was a very happy drunk. She did not seem angry in the least."

Bob smiled. "No further questions."

~~~~~~~~~~~

Johnnie sat in the bathtub with her arms draped along the sides. She held a beer in one hand. She noticed that music had started playing in the background. Ahh, Cassandra Wilson, very lovely. The door to that bathroom slowly and quietly opened. She looked up and saw Alma standing in the doorway with her silk robe open. Johnnie's mouth went dry.

"Any room in there for me?" Alma purred.

Johnnie opened her legs. "Plenty."

Alma slowly walked over to the tub, letting her robe fall from her body as a drop of water from a rose petal. She could hear Johnnie groan, and could see her leering at her. She knew from previous experience that the bigger her belly got, the more turned on Johnnie became. She never felt embarrassed by the changes her body made during her first pregnancy, and knew she could feel that same confidence with this one. Johnnie offered her hand to assist Alma into the tub. Alma settled between Johnnie's thighs as Johnnie wrapped her arms around her expanding belly, pulling Alma close. It was at that moment in time Johnnie felt closest to Alma. It was also at that moment the last time she would feel that safe in a long while.



Chapter 24

A month has passed since Tracy's accident. Although his body was slowly recovering from it's trauma, Tracy remained in a coma. His lover and his business associates were his constant companions. Each one of them shared their feelings with their comatose friend, hoping to speed his return to them.

Alma was none too pleased with her inability to be at the proceedings. Her nerves were on edge. With the additional stress from Tracy's accident and then the trial, Johnnie's nerves were edge as well. They began to take it out on each other. They were snapping at each other a little too frequently. So much in fact their guests had noticed the strain.

As Johnnie dressed, she couldn't help but remember the argument that had taken place between her and Alma the night before.

Dinner had taken place as it had many nights since Tracy's accident, quietly. Tori had decided that the silence was just too much for her.

"You know, guys, I've noticed some tension around here. Is it just me, or is there a problem?" Tori asked.

Johnnie sighed heavily. "I just have a lot of things I need to sort out, Tori. I'm sorry if I've made you guys uncomfortable."

"Maybe you need to talk, Johnnie. It's not good to keep things bottled up." Ceecee advised.

Alma scoffed at her statement. "Maybe the problem is the bottle."

Johnnie's gaze fell on Alma. Anger reared its ugly head as the gaze turned into an angry glare. "And just what in the hell is that supposed to mean, Alma?"

"You know exactly what it means." Alma hissed.

Rage had taken over Johnnie's reasoning. Alma's insinuation made old memories that Johnnie was trying to sort and forgive herself for push her over the edge. She slammed her fist down against the table, making everything bounce before settling back down. Everyone jumped at the sudden explosion of temper.

"Just spit it out. You think I'm drinking. If I hadn't been so stupid as to drink that night, none of this would have happened. If I had stayed home that night, then we wouldn't be going through all this bullshit. Is that it, Alma?" Johnnie growled, standing up so quickly that her chair was knocked over. She leaned down until she was in Alma's face. She was furious. Her eyes turned from their normal deep, rich dark brown to what seemed to be a stormy black. "If I didn't run to the bottle every time I was upset, then we wouldn't be in this mess?"

Once Alma got over her initial shock of Johnnie's outburst, she stood toe to toe with her, glaring up into her eyes with as much venom as Johnnie had in hers. Johnnie didn't intimidate her in the least. "You spend more time in that basement than you do with our guests or me. You come to bed well after I'm asleep. You won't talk to me or let me help you. Yes, that is exactly what I'm saying." She hissed.

Johnnie leaned closer to Alma's face. "Maybe I don't need your fucking help. For your information, I haven't been drinking. Do you think I'm such an emotional cripple that I have to drink to get through a problem?" She demanded.

Ceecee had stood and backed away from the exchange. Tori eased around the table to stand behind Johnnie. She had never seen Johnnie so angry with Alma, and didn't know what she would do.

Johnnie continued. "Why are you even still with me, Alma? Why do you continue to stay with me?"

"I have no idea. You obviously don't need me." Alma spat.

"Then leave. You're free to go." Johnnie told her, suddenly wishing with everything she had that she could take those words back.

"How dare you try to dismiss me?" Before Alma realized it, she had attempted to slap Johnnie.

Johnnie grabbed her wrist. "No, Alma."

Alma attempted to slap her with her other hand. Tears were streaming down her face, as well as Johnnie's.

"I said no, Alma." Johnnie whispered. She was holding both of Alma's wrists. Her body was trembling as her anger ebbed.

Tori placed her hand on Johnnie's shoulder. "Come on guys. Enough."

Johnnie looked into Alma's eyes, and all she could see was the pain that her words had caused her. She released Alma, and walked toward the basement. She looked back, seeing her lovely wife being consoled by Ceecee. "I'm so sorry, Alma." She whispered as she went downstairs. She fell onto the sofa, and cried into a fitful sleep.

Johnnie buttoned her blouse, and then turned to look at her wife. She noticed the dark lines that were appearing on Alma's face. She shouldn't be going through this. She walked back over to the dresser to put on her cologne. When she turned around again, she saw Alma looking at her. Johnnie, ashamed at what transpired the night before, lowered her gaze to a more interesting floor.

Alma rose from their bed. She walked over to Johnnie and placed her hand on Johnnie's shoulder. "We need to talk." She whispered.

Johnnie braced herself for the inevitable. Alma was going to leave her. She couldn't blame her, all this drama was too much to bear. Her heart sank. "Alright." Her legs became weak, so she sat down on the chair in front of the dresser.

"Look at me, Johnnie." Alma told her, lifting her chin. She could see the anguish and pain in Johnnie's eyes; a pain that she had seen only once before, when their son died. 'Oh, beloved, what has this man done to us?' She asked herself.

Johnnie tried to speak, but she couldn't. She wanted to beg Alma for forgiveness, but fear had constricted her vocal cords. Tears streamed down her face. Her body was trembling.

"We, beloved, have had a hard road to travel. My crazy brother almost killed you, and almost raped me. A woman from your past tried to take you away from me. Ballantine tried to destroy you, and in the process caused the death of our son. A lifetime of misery in a span of just a few years." Alma softly said.

This is it. Johnnie thought. She's going to leave me.

Alma continued. "All of this has taken a toll on the both of us. I hope that you won't let him win."

Johnnie's eyebrow arched. "What are you saying, Alma?" She rasped.

"I'm saying if we let this beat us, then he wins. I, for one, have no intention on allowing Ballantine to totally destroy our family. He has done enough damage." Alma said, kneeling in front of Johnnie.

"You…you're not going to leave me?" Johnnie hopefully asked.

"Never, Querida. You are not getting rid of me. We are going to get through this." Alma whispered, tears threatening to fall.

Johnnie entwined their fingers. "Alma, I have been a selfish bitch, wallowing in self-pity. Nearly losing the single most important person in my life. Please forgive me; forgive all the terrible things I said to you. Forgive me for shutting you out."

"I would die if I couldn't be with you. I could never walk away from you, Johnnie. You are my wife, my life." Alma told her.

Johnnie stood, pulling Alma to her as close as Alma's protruding belly would allow. "I love you with all my heart and soul, Alma. When I thought you were going to leave me, I wanted to die. Forgive me."

Johnnie embraced her, and could feel Alma mold herself into her body. With everything going on, Johnnie realized that she and Alma hadn't made love since right after Tracy's accident. She involuntarily shuddered at the closeness of their bodies.

Alma could feel the tension release from her body. She could feel Johnnie's heartbeat quicken as well as her own.

"We need some quality time, baby." Alma said, huskily. "It's been a while."

Johnnie could feel the fire in her belly come to life. "I know, love. We've neglected each other." Johnnie added. "We're going to have to do something about that."

Alma pulled back a little. "What do you have in mind, my wife?"

"I need a little time to plan. By the time I get home, everything should be in motion." Johnnie told her, pulling her back into the embrace.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Alma and I have worked out our problems. Last night made me realize how close I was to losing her." Johnnie said.

"Yeah, we've noticed the tension, Johnnie." Tori told her as she drove Johnnie to the courthouse. "Ceecee was beginning to think we had worn out our welcome."

"No, that's not it, Tori. With everything going on, Alma and I are both a little edgy." Johnnie said. "You know, we haven't made love since Tracy's accident."

"Kinda figured that, old girl." Tori said, looking at her friend. "It's been quiet around the house."

Johnnie chuckled. "Well, at least from our bedroom. I don't think you and Ceecee have had any problems."

Tori shifted uncomfortably in her seat. "Uh, yeah. Sorry about that. We do tend to get carried away sometimes."

"Don't worry about it." Johnnie told her, laughing and patting her shoulder. "You guys have a healthy appetite. No need for apologies."

Tori sighed, and hoped her friend wouldn't carry the ribbing any further. "So, what are you gonna do about your situation with Alma?"

"I've given this a lot of thought since breakfast." Johnnie confided. "Since it's Friday, I'm going to reserve a suite at the Marriott for the weekend. This will all be under an assumed name, of course. I don't need any more drama." She paused. "Yep, this is just what my wife and I need, quality time."

"Tell you what, buddy. Why don't I reserve the room for you? I'll stop by and take care of it after I drop you off. That way, you and Alma can head out when you get home." Tori suggested.

"Good looking out, Tori. I appreciate it." Johnnie told her smiling.

~~~~~~~~~~~

It was late in the day when Abbott rested his case. Judge O'Connell recessed court until Monday morning, when Bob would present his case for the defense. As usual, the press was waiting in the corridor for Johnnie and Bob, trying to get a comment. Of course they said nothing. Abbott, on the other hand, had plenty to say.

"The prosecution has rested an airtight case against Ms. Green. Her freedom is now gauged by how long her attorney can drag out his case. She'll be behind bars soon enough, and will no longer be a menace to society." He told the reporters.

"Whatever happened to 'innocent until proven guilty', Counselor?" A lone voice asked. The reporters turned to the source.

"Madelyn Marshall." Abbott smugly acknowledged. "How good of you to join us. Although, the governor did remove you from this case." He paused. "I forget why you were replaced. Care to enlighten us?"

Maddie glared at him. "That has no consequence on why you're so blatantly disregarding your boundaries as prosecutor. What are you doing, trying to influence the jury? You know they are not sequestered." She began to smile. "I wonder what the governor would think of they way you are handling the press? He'll find out soon enough when he reads your statement in the papers. Even better, he may see you in action. I'm sure this interview will be telecast all the way to Raleigh, with this being such a high profile case."

Abbott became flustered. His arrogance and over zealousness may have gotten him into some trouble. He wondered what he would look like in the event that he lost. His face began to redden as he mentally kicked himself. He also wondered how the governor would react to his statements. Realizing that he had just been 'one-upped' by Maddie, he turned and left. Accomplishing the task of putting the cocky prosecutor in his place, she left with no further comment to the press.

One report asked another, "Why is she back?"

The other reporter responded, "Her former lover is on trial. Wouldn't you want to know the outcome?" She paused. "Could be an interesting sidepiece. Think I'll find out exactly what's going on." With her colleague not knowing her true purpose for wanting to talk with Maddie, she took off in the direction Maddie headed in. Racing to catch up with her, she found her on the stairs.

"Ms. Marshall, I have a couple of questions for you. Please talk to me." She requested.

"Look, I have no comment." Maddie sighed.

"Off the record. I know we are 'family'." She told her. "I was at the restaurant when you had the confrontation with Ms. Green. The one where you and she got into your former relationship."

Maddie leaned her head sideways, surprised at what she was told. "What is it you want to know?" She asked, assessing the shorter brunette.

The reporter smiled. "Actually, I just wanted to know how long you are going to be in town? I've been an admirer of yours for a couple of years." Noticing the blush from the blonde former prosecutor, she moved a little closer. "Maybe we can discuss it over dinner."

"My, my, we move fast." Maddie told her, and then she relented. "I will be hungry. I guess I can share a meal with you, Miss…?"

"Karen, Karen Grace." She smiled.

"Nice to meet you, Karen." Maddie said, extending her hand. Karen willingly took it, and was reluctant to let it go. "I'm staying at the Marriott, room 719. Come by around seven pm."



Tori pulled away from the curb, and asked Johnnie how the day went. Johnnie told her that Abbott had rested his case, and Bob would begin on Monday.

"Did you reserve the suite?" Johnnie asked.

Tori smiled. "Of course I did. You two have suite 721 reserved. Here's the card key. All you have to do is go directly to the room."

"Thanks, Tori. I owe you." Johnnie told her.

"I just want you guys to get back on track." Tori said. "Don't worry about Ceecee and me. I think we can find something to occupy our time."

Johnnie teased, "I'm sure you will." In a serious moment she asked, "Did you guys check on Tracy today?"

"Yeah, we went this morning." She told her. "He's the same. I told Alma that I'd take you by there before we'd get home."

"Thanks." Johnnie said. They remained comfortably quiet while Tori drove to the hospital.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Johnnie talked with Mark and Glenda after she had spent time with Tracy. Mark looked exhausted, he had been trying to rest, but spent a lot of time talking to Tracy, hoping that he would soon come out of the coma. His lung was recovering, but his lone left kidney was beginning to have problems. He was still critical, but he was beginning to show that he was fighting. Mark returned to Tracy's room for his fifteen minutes.

"How's Mark holding up, Glen?" Johnnie asked her friend.

Glenda shook her head. "I don't know how he does it, Johnnie. He never leaves this hospital. The staff is nice enough to allow him to shower. We bring his food, but he barely touches it. If he's not careful, he'll be in a bed beside Tracy."

"I can understand how he feels. If it wasn't for Alma talking to me everyday, I may not have tried as hard as I did to come back to her." Johnnie said. She paused to assess the friend standing before her. "What about you, Glen? Laura and Mike have told me that you hardly ever leave, either."

Glenda gave her a half-hearted smile. "You know Tracy can't be out of my sight for too long. Mark's love will give him the strength to fight. Tracy also needs my TLC." She and Tracy were as close as siblings. They fought like cats and dogs, but that is what siblings do.

"I can imagine the TLC you give him. How many times have you called him a lazy bastard today?" Johnnie asked, laughing. "Did you accuse him of pilfering your Pepsi?"

"Yeah," Glenda told her laughing heartily, "I told him I saw one of my bottles roll from under his bed." Suddenly she started crying. "Johnnie what if we lose him? What will we do?"

Johnnie, seeing Glenda shift from one mood to another, embraced her friend. "He'll be fine, Glen. You'll see. He will pay you back for the hard time you've given him. You do know that, right?"

"I'm counting on it." Glenda told her.



Mark caressed Tracy's forehead. He smiled at the small amount of color that was returning to Tracy.

"You look good, honey. I see you are getting stronger every day. Come back to us, my love. We all need you." Mark softly told Tracy. "Everyone is so concerned about you." He leaned over, and placed a light kiss on Tracy's lips.

"How sweet." The voice said. "They really care about us, don't they?"

"It's me they care about, goon. They don't even know about you." Tracy said, weakly.

"Well, you can't say that about everyone, fag. Or have you forgotten about that romantic night I had with Mark?" The voice sneered.

"Fuck you asshole." Tracy whispered. "I hate you."

"Huh, that's what you say now. What about when the old man was kicking your ass?" The voice angrily demanded. " He was fucking you more than he fucked your sorry ass mom. You wouldn't have survived if it wasn't for me, and don't you ever forget it."



Chapter 25

Alma was anxiously waiting for Tori to bring Johnnie home. She had packed after Tori came back home and told that Johnnie had plans for them and to pack a few things. She ran to the door when she saw Tori's car pull up in the driveway.

When Johnnie opened the door, Alma immediately fell into her arms. Their kiss ignited passions in both of them that had been long dormant. Johnnie reluctantly broke the kiss. She looked down into Alma's beautiful brown eyes and caressed her cheek.

"I see you're packed and ready. Just let me grab a couple of things and then we can leave." Johnnie said after giving Alma a quick kiss.

"Whoa, Querida." Alma said, grabbing Johnnie's arm. "I've packed for the both of us."

Johnnie looked at the lone suitcase and pointed at it. "Baby, that's only one bag."

Alma pressed her fingers to Johnnie's lips and smiled. "All we need is in that bag."

A wicked smile crossed Johnnie's lips. That's right, baby. Not gonna be needing much clothing. She took Alma's hand into hers, and bid their friends farewell.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Maddie changed into a pair of shorts and sports bra, deciding that she needed a workout before her dinner with Karen. She looked into the mirror, admiring her tall, lithe body. "Well, at least I've been able to keep myself in shape. My new job at the Atlanta DA's office, and no social life has made me a gym rat." Maddie sighed, speaking out loud to no one. Just gotta get back into the swing of dating. I can be happy again. She looks into the mirror once more, smiling. Yes, Madelyn, you can be happy again. She picked up her towel and gym bag, and walked out of the room. Maddie walked over to the elevators. There were two, so she knew she wouldn't have to wait too long. The elevator on the left arrived first. She had just stepped in as the doors to the elevator on the right opened. Alma, with Johnnie pressed close behind her, walked out and into the hallway.

"You're very beautiful, Alma. I love you more than anything or anyone. I was a fool who almost threw away a precious jewel. Forgive me, my love." Johnnie whispered as she had Alma pressed against the door to their suite.

Alma could feel Johnnie's nipples swelling against her back. She could also feel the heat from Johnnie's sex as she had it firmly pressed against her behind. She wiggled a little making Johnnie moan. "Of course I forgive you. Now you have to forgive me for allowing you to drift away from me." She softly said, craning her head back to give Johnnie more access to her neck.

Johnnie suckled on Alma's earlobe, and then perused her neck. "We are even. Now I want to take you inside, and ravish you."

Alma quickly swiped the electronic key and they entered the suite. Once inside, Johnnie pressed Alma against the wall. She placed her lips against Alma's, running her tongue against Alma's bottom lip, begging for entry. Alma parted her lips, and their tongues slowly entwined. The kiss became passionate, with moans of pleasure emanating from both of them. Johnnie began a slow grind against Alma. Alma grabbed Johnnie's behind and pulled her as close as her ever-expanding belly would allow. Johnnie eased her hand up Alma's skirt and into her panties, stroking the swollen bundle of nerves. A guttural moan escaped Alma's lips, and Johnnie pulled the panties down and kneeled before her. "I must.... I can't wait...I need to taste you, Alma. Right now."

"Oh ... my... God..." was Alma's response, as Johnnie's tongue flicked across her clit, sucking it in. Her knees nearly buckled, and she began thrusting her hips to the rhythm of Johnnie's devouring tongue.

"Alma, oh," Johnnie moaned against her wet mound, "you taste so sweet." Unable to control her desire any longer she stood up and lifted Alma, carrying her into the bedroom. Johnnie sat Alma on the edge of the bed, and as Alma fell back she continued her feast. Her senses reeled at the smell and taste of Alma. She unbuckled her belt and unzipped her pants, kicking them and her boxers off. Alma thrust her hips wildly as Johnnie moaned into her.

"Inside, Johnnie. Please baby, I need to feel you inside of me." Alma moaned.

Because of the growing child inside of Alma, they had to improvise on the positions that Alma would be comfortable in. Johnnie moved behind Alma as she turned over on her side. She placed her crotch on Alma's behind and slid her fingers into Alma's wetness. She used her thumb to stimulate the already swollen clit. Johnnie thrust her hips into Alma. Johnnie kissed and nibbled on Alma's neck and shoulders. Her thrusts kicked her libido into overdrive.

"Slow down, Querida. There's no rush." Alma gasped, as Johnnie placed love bites on her neck and shoulders.

Johnnie tried to slow down, but her body betrayed her. "I can't Alma. I'm too close."

Alma was near the edge herself. "Then take me with you." She husked.

"Yes." Johnnie growled. "I... I... I'm coming Alma."

"Si, bebe, Mi Dios." Alma screamed, lost in her passion as Johnnie took her to the edge, and over.

They writhed wildly, as orgasm took over their bodies. When they stilled, Johnnie slithered down Alma's body, reaching her soaking mound. She licked Alma's juices from her curls, folds and inner thighs, making her spasm. Exhausted, Johnnie laid her head on Alma's thigh.

When Alma's breathing returned to normal, she whispered to her wife, "Johnnie, that was intense. It's been too long."

"I know, love." Johnnie said. "I'm sorry, and it won't happen again."

Alma sat up, with Johnnie's head in her lap. "Do you promise?"

Johnnie turned her head to look into Alma's big brown eyes. "I promise."

~~~~~~~~~~~

This is just dinner, girl. Get dressed, already. Maddie mused as she tried to decide what to wear. She finally decided on casual. She put on a pair of black button-fly jeans, black shirt with a white tank top underneath. She wore low-heeled black boots, not wanting to tower over her shorter date. Karen was taller than the average woman at 5'9", but Maddie was even taller at 5'11". Better not tuck this shirt in. Don't want to give Karen a heart attack. She laughed; noting her behind was not average. She had been blessed with a behind that was rare on a white woman. A sista booty, as Johnnie put it. She laughed again. Now where did that come from?

Karen stood at the door of Maddie's suite. I hope she doesn't mind casual. She wore a pair of blue button-fly jeans, denim shirt, and a pair of the latest Jordan's. Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail. Shit, she probably has on a suit. Damn, I should have dressed a little better than this. She sighed. It's too late now. Just knock on the door, stupid.

A knock at the door brought Maddie from her musing. She took one last look in the mirror, and was satisfied. She opened the door, and did not recognize the woman standing there. "May I help you?"

Karen smirked. "It's me, Maddie. Karen."

Maddie was stunned. This gorgeous creature was not the same woman who had invited her to dinner this afternoon. Her face was devoid of any makeup. "Karen?"

"Yes." Karen waited. "Uhm, may I come in?"

Maddie nodded and stepped aside to let her guest in. Damn, that woman is fine. "Great minds think alike, I see." Maddie said once she recovered her voice.

"It's a good thing, too." Karen told her. "I was just kicking myself for not dressing up."

Maddie smiled and looked into Karen's eyes. My God, she is gorgeous. Those green eyes are to die for. Where did that incredible voice come from?

Karen repeated her question, knowing that Maddie hadn't heard a word she said. She finally waved her hand in Maddie's face.

"Oh, I'm sorry. You were saying?" A flustered Maddie questioned.

Karen chuckled. She's really cute when she blushes. "I was asking if you liked seafood. We can go to this restaurant I know called the Sandpiper. Their lobsters are delicious.

"Fine. Um… yeah I love seafood." Maddie answered. God, her voice is so sexy. I could never say no to her. "Let me get my purse and key. I'll be right back."

"I'll be right here." Karen told her, giving her a lop-sided grin, nearly causing Maddie to stumble. She watched Maddie as she left the room. Wonder why she didn't tuck her shirt in? God knows she should, that ass is to die for. Well, maybe it was a good idea that she didn't.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"What? Do I have something in my teeth, or food on my face?" Karen questioned, taking her napkin and wiping her face.

She and Maddie were nearly finished with their meal. Maddie was surprised at the amount of food Karen took in. First, she picked the largest lobster in the tank, and then ordered a large shrimp side meal.

"No, no, that's not it." Maddie told her smiling. "It's just... you're nothing like the reporter I'm used to. You actually seem human."

"Thanks, I think." She said, not knowing how to take that statement.

"It's nothing derogatory, Karen." Maddie said, placing her hand on hers. "I mean you're usually so stiff and professional. I definitely never would have guessed you were 'family'."

Karen felt comfortable with Maddie's hand on top of hers. She captured it with her free hand, stroking it. Maddie smiled. "It's hard to be free here in good old North Carolina. I'd lose my job if I flaunted my orientation. The suits I leave for work. This is the real me; beer drinking, ball playing, denim wearing old me."

"Your voice is totally different from the one I'm used to hearing. Why would you disguise a lovely contralto voice like that?" Maddie inquired, looking deeply into Karen's eyes.

"A lot of people were intimidated by my voice. It kept me from getting a couple of jobs." She told her. "But, I'm finally getting a break."

"Really? What kind of break?" Maddie asked, genuinely interested, basking in the warmth of the hand that possessively covered hers.

"Well, I interviewed with CNN. I was totally myself. Professional, but I didn't hide my orientation. It seems my work speaks for itself."

"And?" Maddie asked anxiously.

"I'll be moving to Atlanta next month." She told her, smiling.

Maddie could barely contain her excitement. What was it about this woman that made her want to be with her? "That's great. Congratulations."

"Thanks." Karen said, giving Maddie's hand another stroke before reluctantly releasing it. "Enough about me. How long are you going to be in town, and where do you call home now?"

"I'll be here until the end of Johnnie's, I mean the Green trial is over." Maddie revealed. "Home is now Atlanta."

Karen smiled broadly, showing off her unbelievably white and perfect teeth. "Well, well Ms. Marshall, it appears we are going to be neighbors."

"It seems so, Ms. Grace." Maddie told her, returning her smile. "I'm stuffed. How bout we take a walk on the pier?"

"I'd love to." Karen said, lowering her voice even more. She noticed the shiver that her actions caused, and smiled.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Sweet Jesus, Johnnie. That was incredible." Alma was barely able to speak. Their erratic breathing echoed in the bathroom. Johnnie was sitting in the hot tub with Alma straddling her thighs. Johnnie gently suckled Alma's nipple, as she removed her fingers from Alma's quivering flesh. "What you do to me, baby, my heart can barely take."

Johnnie only moaned as she turned her attention to the neglected breast.

"You are insatiable, beloved." Alma whispered, kissing the top of Johnnie's lowered head. "I would have you no other way."

"Come on, baby, let's get out of this water. We will most definitely pick this up later. Right now I need some food, a little wine, and a breather." Johnnie mumbled as she showered Alma's neck with butterfly kisses.

"Well if you keep kissing me like that, you might have to put your idea on the back burner." Alma whispered seductively in Johnnie's ear.

Johnnie immediately stopped her barrage on Alma's neck, and removed her hands from her buttocks, lifting them in an 'I surrender' gesture. "I need to recharge my batteries, love. But rest assured, you will be screaming well into the night."

~~~~~~~~~~~



"It's beautiful here at night." Karen told Maddie as they walked towards the end of the pier. "I come out here a lot to clear my head."

"Peaceful, too." Maddie added. I could listen to that voice all night. Get a grip girl.

Karen reached over and took Maddie's hand into her own. Maddie smiled, and moved closer to her date. I wonder what she's thinking… I wonder… does it involve us naked and sweating? I really feel she is The One.

They reached the end of the pier and leaned across the railing. Maddie reached over, and began twirling the ends of Karen's hair in her fingers. Karen grasped Maddie's hand and kissed her palm.

"Tell me about yourself, Karen." Maddie asked as she reveled in the way Karen's lips felt against her palm.

Karen blushed. "Ok. Well I am originally from Pennsylvania. Went to Kings College on a full softball scholarship."

"So, you are a jock, eh?" Maddie teased.

Karen laughed. "Yeah, you could say that." She paused for a moment, and then resumed speaking for she was unable to keep her thoughts to herself any longer. "Maddie, you may think I'm crazy, but I feel a strong attraction to you. I can't explain it, but I've felt this way about you for a long time. I think it started last year when I saw you trying a case." Karen blurted out.

Maddie was stunned at the revelation, but pleased to know that the feelings weren't one-sided. "I don't think you're crazy. I felt something this afternoon in the stairwell. Now that I've gotten to know a little bit about the 'real' you, the attraction is even stronger." She paused. "Why didn't you introduce yourself to me before now?"

Karen looked into the sea of azure that was Maddie's eyes, and immediately went into a free fall. She caressed Maddie's cheek. "I guess I was afraid. After you left, I kicked myself for not acting on my instincts. When I saw you today, I thought I was granted another chance. I had no idea that you are now living in Atlanta." She moved closer. "I don't know about you, but the fates have given me a chance at happiness." She brushed her lips against Maddie's cheek. She heard her moan. Karen moved closer to Maddie's mouth, a hair's breadth separating them, and moved in for a kiss. One that was soft, sweet and very erotic.

Maddie leaned into the kiss, her tongue begging for entrance. Karen granted it, and their tongues danced together as if they were old friends. Maddie wrapped her arms around Karen's shoulders, feeling the muscles move beneath her shirt. Karen wrapped her arms around Maddie's waist, pulling her even closer. They both reluctantly broke the kiss, holding on to each other like lost souls finally reuniting.

"We should continue this discussion back at my hotel." Maddie breathlessly whispered.

"I total agree, counselor." Karen huskily told her.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Johnnie fed Alma a strawberry dipped in chocolate. Alma flicked her tongue across Johnnie's fingers, eliciting a low growl. Johnnie then dipped her fingers into the melted chocolate, and covered Alma's nipples with the confection. She then used her tongue to slowly lick them clean.

"Ooh, you are so bad." Alma giggled. She leaned back on the bed, and gave Johnnie a 'come hither' look. Johnnie smiled at her, and reached for her glass of champagne. She filled Alma's navel with champagne and drank from it, until she had consumed what was in the flute. She felt guilty for indulging when Alma could not; Alma could only have fruit juice. Johnnie took a pineapple chunk and squeezed the juice into Alma's curls, then licked them clean. She settled herself between Alma's thighs, draped her legs over her shoulders, then licked and sucked the outer lips of Alma's womanhood.

"Yes, beloved." Alma hissed.

"Tell me, my love, what would you like for me to do for you." Johnnie asked, strategically placing butterfly kisses on her inner thighs.

"Your tongue, deep inside me." Alma told her, then released a throaty moan when Johnnie did as she requested. She moved her hips, matching Johnnie's thrusts.

"Ahh, uhm...fingers... three... please...now." She shrieked, grasping the sheets.

Johnnie replaced her tongue with the requested digits, sliding her tongue to the protruding clit of her wife. Alma continued to match her thrusts, only more urgently than before. Johnnie circled, sucked and teased the engorged clit, making Alma scream in ecstasy as her orgasm ripped through her.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Would you care for a drink?" Maddie asked Karen after they released each other from a soul-searing kiss.

Karen walked over to the sofa. "Yeah, I'll take a scotch, no ice." She looked at Maddie, hoping with all that she was that this night would not be ending soon.

Maddie brought her the drink, along with a club soda for herself, and sat next to her. They were quietly enjoying their drinks, when Karen broke the silence.

"I hope you don't think that I'm usually like this when I go out. It's just, I feel a connection with you, and I couldn't resist kissing you." She lowered her head. Karen knew that she was desirable, but made it a habit not to sleep with just anyone. Women offered to be with her, but she rarely accepted. "I'm sorry if I offended you."

"I thought we cleared this up on the pier, Karen. I feel something strong for you, too." Maddie told her. "Stronger than anything I have ever felt before. It wasn't like this, even with...."

"Johnnie?" Karen interrupted.

"Yeah, Johnnie." She said. "This isn't about her. It's about us." Maddie stood, and then extended her hand to Karen. Karen took it, and followed her into the bedroom.

They stood face to face at the side of the bed. Karen was going to speak, but Maddie placed her fingers over her lips. "I'm not one to fall in and out of bed with women, Karen, but this is right. I feel it in my very soul." Maddie whispered. She began to unbutton Karen's shirt; she pulled it out from inside her pants. Maddie slid the shirt from Karen's shoulders, and was amazed at the way the woman was built, taut muscle with a feminine softness to it. She ran her fingers from her muscular shoulders; along her chest to her abs. Karen trembled, licked her lips, and released a breath that she felt she held for an eternity.

Karen leaned in to kiss her. She pulled her close, and placed her hands on Maddie's buttocks, gently squeezing them. Groaning at the contact, Karen whispered, "Maddie, please, baby I want you."

"I'm here, and I'm yours." She nervously whispered.

Karen removed Maddie's shirt, then her tank top. She unclasped her bra with deft fingers. She leaned in and nibbled on Maddie's shoulder, slowly kissing her way up her neck. Her hands gently held Maddie's breasts, stroking her thumbs against the swelling nipples. She looked into her eyes, and then kissed her.

Breaking the kiss, Karen asked her, "Are you sure you want to do this?"

"Positive. This is right, Karen. There won't be any regrets in the morning." She breathlessly assured her.

Bodies moving together in unison as moans and gasps released between two lovers; Maddie on her back, with Karen on top of her with her hips between her thighs. It was a dance almost as old as time itself, the beast with two backs. Swollen clits sliding against each other, breasts touching, tongues entwined, souls merging into one. Sweat covered bodies gliding against each other.

"Harder ... oh yes, baby." Maddie breathless pleaded.

Karen rolled her hips harder, deeper, slower. "Maddie, oh God. You feel so good." She arched her back as sweat ran in rivulets down her back, plastering her dark mane to her back and shoulders. Karen licked the sweat from Maddie's breasts, sucking and nibbling, trying not to neglect either of them for too long.

They had christened every inch of the bed, in positions that even surprised Maddie. Their lovemaking moved from soft, gentle 'getting to know you' love, to the passionate 'my soul is on fire for you' loving. Neither one of them said the words 'I love you' out loud, but they showed each other how deep their feelings were for one another.

"Maddie, oh, oh...I'm almost there, baby." Karen rasped.

"Yes...now...oh gods." Maddie screamed.

"Shit...shit...shit!" Karen growled against Maddie's shoulder.

"Karen!"

"Maddie!"

They went over, together. Maddie wrapped her arms around Karen as she struggled to catch her breath. This is right. She's the one. I've found someone to grow old with. She mused. They fell asleep in that very position. Karen eventually rolled to her side of the bed, and Maddie snuggled up against her. Karen draped an arm around her Maddie's waist, and a subconscious "I love you, Maddie" escaped her lips, but fell on deaf ears.



Continued in Part 8