Just incase it get's confusing...
Parents:
Helen and Alekanekelo "Alec" (A leh KA neh KEH loh: Defending men) Makana
Siblings:
Abegaila "My father's joy" – 47 years old – 3 kids (oldest sister)
Kei (Keh ee) "Dignified" 45 years old - 2 kids (twin brother of Kaimana)
Kaimana (kah ee MAH nah) "Divine power of the sea" – 45 years old – 1 kid (twin brother of Kei)
Kanae (kah nah EH) "Beautiful one" – 42 years old - 2 kids (second eldest sister)
Malie (mah lee ee) "Tranquil/calm" 40 years old – 3 kids (twin sister of Malu)
Malu (Ma loo) "Protector/shelter" 40 years old – 3 kids (twin brother of Malie)
Children:
Abegaila:
Andrew - 18 years old.
Miliani (me lee on nee: gentle caress) - 15 years old.
Kalani (kah-LAH-nee: free; chieftain) - 10 years old.
Kei:
Akela (a ke la: noble) and Hana (happiness, flower, work) – 12 year old twin girls.
Kaimana:
Carlin - 13 years old
Kanae:
Lana (Calm as still waters) - 7 years old
Jonathan – 5 1/5 years old
Malie:
Isabella/Bizzy – 14 years old
Samantha – 11 years old
Matthew – 8 years old
Malu:
Ben/Benjamin & Morgan – 9 year old twins
Ipolani (ee poh LAH nee: Heavenly sweetheart) – 5 years old.
Pono (righteous)
**************
This is Me
No one ever said that the Makana's were a quiet bunch. You just get two in a room and you'll have yourself a party - that's what the running joke was. And in true Makana fashion, it was a loud family party.
The funny part was that it was just weekend breakfast. But this family loved to celebrate regardless of what the occasion was. It wasn't just a way of life for the Makana's but for the Hawaiian culture in general. Today was no different.
Kekoa and Liv were the last to arrive. They entered the house with squeals of delight by Keko's nephew and nieces and tons of hugs and kisses from her brother's and sisters. Everyone was crowding around them speaking all at once, taking their coats and guiding them down farther into the house. Olivia laughed at all the attention and Kekoa just grunted in frustration but still had a silly grin on her face.
Without knowing it, Keko reached down and laced her fingers with Olivia's and gave it a gentle squeeze. Those closest to the pair saw it and smiled softly but didn't say a word. They all moved from the entry way to the remodelled kitchen.
Everyone was impressed with the improvements that Noah made to the large kitchen. Kekoa in particular, loved the little island that was in the centre of the room. Noah's eyes little up like a Christmas tree when Kekoa showed deep admiration in the details that seemed to go unnoticed by the others.
Olivia watched from the other end of the room and smiled softly. Kekoa was absolutely engrossed in all the details of every cupboard and counter. Noah was rattling off the various things that he had added and Kekoa nodded in fascination. She caressed a hand over the marble counter top and Olivia had to bite her tongue from moaning out loud.
"Liv?"
At the sound of her name, Kekoa's head snapped around and caught Olivia staring. Instantly, Liv felt herself blush and just like that a different kind of heat grew inside her. Clearing her throat, Liv glanced at the two women that she had been having a conversation with.
Abby and Kanae watched with amusement as Liv squirmed under their curious stares. Kanae felt bad and reached out and wrapped her arm around Liv's shoulders and gave her a gentle squeeze.
"She has that effect on people," Kanae said with a playful smile. Abby threaded her arm around Olivia's and chuckled quietly as she led the two women into the family room.
"Sorry. We can't help tease the two of you. You guys are just so damn cute together," Abby said gently. Olivia wasn't sure what to say.
"Really, why doesn't she just ask you out already?" Kanae said teasingly, completely unaware that her comments made Olivia stiffen. Abby picked up on Liv's discomfort and quickly gave her sister a stern look.
"Ana," Abby said warningly. Kanae just shrugged her shoulders and gave Liv a finally squeeze and took her leave. Olivia wasn't sure what just happened but she was grateful for Abby's protectiveness.
"Are you happy?" Abby held Liv gently at arms length as she studied her. Olivia got the feeling that there was more to the question then what was being asked.
Inhaling deeply Liv nodded slowly. "Yes. I will be. I hope," she said slowly. Abby seemed to consider this. After a moment, Abby smiled brightly and gave Liv a big hug.
"Good. That's all we've ever wanted for you," Abby said as she pulled away. Olivia looked a little confused and Abby smiled gently at her. Abby motioned for Liv to follow her into the family room.
"CAN YOU TWO GET YOUR BUTTS IN HERE?" Malie hollered as she saw Noah and Kekoa slowly making their way into the family room.
"Malie!" chided their mother. Malie just threw her hands in the air and sighed loudly. Helen just gave her second youngest child a stern look.
Kekoa and Noah blushed as they realized they were holding everyone up. "Sorry," Keko mumbled as she stood shyly beside Liv. She reached down and held onto Liv's hand as Abby gave everyone something to do for the morning.
"Women and children stay out here and set the tables up. You manly men get to do the cooking," Abby held her hand up as a series of groans echoed through out the room. "Don't start! Just do it!" Abby teased.
Everyone rolled there eyes at Abby's bossy nature as they all got up and ambled over to their assigned task.
"Where do you think you're going?" Abby asked as she arched an eye brow. Keko looked a little puzzled.
"I'm gonna set up the tables and stuff," she said as she pointed to where Olivia was sliding out a folding table with the help of Hana and Akela, Kei's precious little girls . Abby shook her head and pointed to the kitchen.
"The cooking duties include you. Now get your frumpy rump in there," Abby ordered with a playful swat to her sister's shoulder. Still a little confused, Keko stood there scratching her head.
"Kai! Get your sister!" Kai came bursting through the kitchen door. Before Keko had time to react, Kai grabbed her from behind and lifted her up, carrying her into the kitchen. Keko squealed in surprise as everyone laughed.
Kai gently tossed his sister to the side and chuckled as she playfully swung at him. Their father cleared his throat and looked pointedly at them.
"The faster we get this done, the quicker we can eat. Get a move on you two." He said gently. Kekoa and Kai got busy with cutting up the potatoes. The conversation between her brothers and brother in law's flowed. They spoke about everything under the sun.
"So little sis, has Olivia made an honest woman out of you yet or are you going to let her become an old maid?" Kei smirked. Kekoa nearly sliced her finger as she looked up in embarrassment. Malu, who was standing next to Kei, shoved his elbow hard into his older brother's chest.
"Ow! Dude! What the hell was that for?" Kei shoved Lu a little too hard causing Malu stumbling back wards.
Kai grabbed his sister's hand and examined it closely making sure nothing was cut.
"I'm ok, Kai. Stop. I'm ok, I said," Keko stuttered as she pulled her hand away.
"SHUT UP!"
"MAKE ME!"
"BOYS!" The room had gotten quiet as both their parents stood glaring at them. Lynn, Olivia and Stacey, Kei's wife, stood behind Ms. Makana. They weren't too happy either.
Embarrassed, Keko excused herself brushing past Olivia. She didn't hear Olivia calling her name as she went. Keko went straight to the nearest room she could find – the bathroom. She rested her hands on the edges of the sink and stared at her reflection.
She felt tears prickle the backs of her eye lids and she shut them tight.
"Keko?"
Her eyes snapped open as she heard Liv's soft voice on the other side. Swallowing, Keko cleared her throat and took a breath before opening the door. She plastered a smile on her face but it didn't reach her eyes.
"So...the party still going on?" Keko asked trying to make the mood light. She heard the hushed voices and quickly glanced down the hall. Keko watched as her father crossed his arms over his big chest and frown. Their mother threw her hands up in the air in frustration as Kei shrugged and Malu hung his head; their wives giving them an exasperated look.
"Can I come in?"
Kekoa locked eyes with Liv and stood back quietly. Liv sat on the edge of the tub as she waited for Keko to do the same. Keko opted to sit on the toilet and rested her forearms on her thighs as she sighed and hung her head. They sat in silence, Olivia giving Keko her space and time to work things out in her head.
After a moment Olivia reached out and rested a gentle hand on top of Keko's and gave it a loving squeeze. Liv leaned forward and tucked her head, as much as she could, into Kekoa's neck and softly kissed her.
Turning slightly, Keko kissed the side of Olivia's head then nuzzled the spot with her nose. She inhaled Olivia's shampoo and smiled. Peach...I like it.
"How much did you hear?" Keko asked tiredly. She wasn't sure how she was going to explain Kei's comments and she wasn't sure if she wanted to. Since the first time Kekoa brought Olivia home, Kei had been the biggest hassle about the two of them. He took every opportunity to tease his baby sister relentlessly about Olivia.
For awhile Kekoa took as much as she could but soon it had gotten too much. Although he meant them as a joke, his words never failed to hurt Keko.
"Enough," Liv whispered. She had moved her head so it rested on Kekoa's hunched shoulders. Her hands wrapped themselves around Keko and were gently caressing her back and arms. Keko closed her eyes as she felt Olivia kiss her jaw line softly.
"I'm sorry," Keko blurted out. She felt the tears returning and she turned away so Olivia wouldn't see them falling. Liv stopped what she was doing then gently cupped Keko's chin and waited patiently for Keko to turn around.
Liv brushed her thumb across Keko's cheek and leaned forward to place a soft kiss on her lips. She tasted tears and kissed her again, this time letting her lips linger over Keko's.
"Don't apologize. You did nothing wrong," Liv whispered against Keko's lips. Keko nodded and licked her lips leaning in for another kiss which Olivia was happy to give. This time it was longer then before.
When it ended, Liv held Keko's face in her hands and looked deeply into Keko's eyes. "We'll talk about it when we get home, ok?" Keko sighed and nodded. Olivia kissed the tip of her nose then wrapped her arms around Keko's neck. The sat like that for a moment until they heard a knock on the door.
"Hey, Keko?"
Keko sat up and glanced at Liv. Her lips had thinned as she heard the voice on the other side of the door. Smiling, Keko quickly kissed Liv on the lips and gave her hands a squeeze. Liv didn't look happy but inhaled deeply and gestured for Keko to get the door.
Getting up, Keko squared her shoulders and opened up the door. Kei stepped in but almost left when he saw the look Olivia had given him. Swallowing, he hung his head as he stood awkwardly in between his sister and Liv.
"Uh…I just wanted to apologize for what I said," Kei murmured quietly. Keko slid her hands into her pockets and bit her lip. She met Olivia's gaze and jerked her head ever so slightly. Liv nearly curled her lip into a snarl but refrained from doing so when she saw the pleading look in Keko's eyes.
Clearing her throat, Olivia crossed her arms over her chest and stared at Kei as if she were staring down a suspect.
"If you were my brother, I would have hit you for that," Liv said softly. Keko's head snapped up as she stared wide eyed at Olivia. Inhaling, Olivia quickly added, "but you're not. Kekoa means the world to me and she's your sister. As much as I don't want to do it, apology accepted."
Kei finally looked up and nodded silently, grateful for another chance. But was quickly humbled by Olivia's words.
"Don't you dare think I'm doing this for you," Liv said as she brushed past him and hugged Keko. She pulled her close and whispered in her ear, "I'm sorry. I tried." Liv felt Keko nodded. Keko returned the quick hug and kissed her neck before letting her go.
Turning to leave, she gave Kei a warning. "Don't make her cry." With that she slipped out of the cramped washroom and shut the door softly.
The siblings were left alone. Keko still had her hands in her pocket but she was now leaning against the wall by the sink; she was staring sadly at her older brother. Kei held his hands out to the sides and shrugged.
"What can I say, Pono? I'm sorry. You know me, I stick my foot in my mouth whenever I open it," he said lamely. Keko was silent; she just didn't know what to say to him anymore.
Kei pleaded with his sister to understand. "Dude, you know I never meant any disrespect towards Olivia. Never. She's like a sister, man! I know how much she means to you!"
Keko's jaw clenched and unclenched. She had to look away for a moment before she could say anything. She took a breath to calm herself before turning back.
"Then why do you say stuff like that? You embarrass me in front of people all the time! You constantly make jokes about it! Ever since Olivia and I met," Keko had tears streaming down her face. The years of torment from Kei finally reached its breaking point.
Kei shrugged his big shoulders clumsily. He had tears in his eyes as well as he ran a hand through his hair.
"You know I love you, Pono. And I'm so very sorry that I keep hurting you-,"
"Then why do you keep doing it?" Keko demanded. She loved her brother very much but sometimes it was hard to be around him when he'd start teasing her.
"You know me, Pono; I'm not like Kai. I'm not the smart one, ya know? I mean, I wish I were but I'm not," Kei shrugged helplessly as his voice cracked. He sat on the edge of the tub looking miserable. Keko sighed and sat down next to him.
"Just stop with the comments and the teasing, ok? We're not kids anymore and the stuff you say…they seriously hurt, man. I can only take so much, you know?"
Sniffing, Kei nodded quietly. "I really am sorry, Pono," Kei said softly. Nodding, Keko just threw an arm over her brother's shoulders.
"I know. You can be an idiot sometimes but you're still a good brother. Just practice on the teasing," Kekoa gave him a quick kiss on the temple. Kei gave his sister a shy smile and nodded.
"You know, she really likes you," Kei said as he got up. Keko stared at him wondering if what ever they had just spoken about went right through him. He's actually serious.
"Dude, I said no more teasing," Keko laughed nervously. She stood next to Kei fidgeting with the hem of her shirt.
"Pono, I'm being genuine here. She's different when she's around you," Kei said truthfully. Keko blushed and shook her head.
"Dude, let's get outta here before you start putting flowers in you hair," Keko said embarrassed.
Kei laid a gentle hand on Kekoa's shoulders. Keko turned back and was caught off guard as Kei engulfed her in a bear hug. Keko returned the gesture and the two finally pulled back after a moment.
"Come on. Let's go see if we can find a nice peace offering for Liv," Keko said as she opened up the door.
"Chocolate chip pancakes sound good?" Kei suggested as he followed his sister out. He quickly froze as he noticed Olivia waiting just outside the washroom door.
"Double the chips and we'll call the whole thing off," Liv said as she wrapped a possessive arm around Keko's waist. Kei watched her and blushed as he realized Olivia was staring back at him as if daring him to say something.
Kei smiled brightly and nodded. "Deal!"
For now, all was calm between the three of them. They headed back towards the living room and all eyes were on them.
Keko went over to their mother and gave her quick kiss to the cheek. Helen held her daughter at arms length and studied her for a moment. She nodded as if she finally found what she was looking for and gave Keko a hug.
Helen then turned to Olivia and held out her hand. "Come on sweetie. Let's get you fed. You're looking to thin." Olivia smacked a hand to her forehead as she was dragged away into the kitchen.
Laughter was heard all around. The lively chatter started up once again as everyone got ready for breakfast.
**********************
It was later that evening as the two women sat in comfortable silence on the sofa. Olivia rested her head on Keko's strong shoulder while Keko gently caressed Liv's knee. They were giving each other the space they needed before they spoke about that kiss this morning.
Olivia snuggled closer as Keko's hand moved up ward from her knee. Liv raised her head slightly and kissed Kekoa just behind her ear and smiled as she found a particularly sensitive spot and was rewarded with a low moan from Keko.
Keko was having a difficult time keeping her hormones under control with Olivia finding more sensitive places. She nearly jumped out of her skin when Olivia lightly nipped at her neck. Keko's eyes fluttered shut and just about missed the hand that was slowly sliding down her abdomen.
Eyes snapping open, Kekoa shot up almost falling over the coffee table. Breathing heavily, she ran a shaky hand through her hair. Clearing her throat, Keko tried to sound unaffected.
"Okay, that was a little, uh, much," Keko said as her voice cracked. Olivia was breathing deeply trying to calm her raging hormones. She dragged a hand through hair and clenched her head with both hands.
"Sorry, I'm sorry," Liv mumbled. She bit her bottom lip and shut her eyes. This is going to be a lot harder then I thought.
Nodding Kekoa slowly made her way to the other end of the couch.
"So, you, uh, wanted to talk?" Kekoa asked awkwardly. She wiped her palms over her jeans and swallowed nervously.
Oh Hell. Where do I start? She thought.
"Liv?"
Olivia rested her eyes upon the woman that had invaded her dreams all through out their friendship. There's no turning back after this.
Inhaling, Olivia quickly gathered her thoughts and sighed. She didn't notice how nervous she was until Keko laid a hand on her fidgeting hands. She looked up and smiled at her friend.
"Liv, if you're not ready yet, we don't have to do this now," Kekoa gently suggested. This is what I adore about you, Liv thought with a smile. Shaking her head with a smile, Olivia squeezed Kekoa's fingers lovingly.
"I think we need to do this now," Liv said softly. Keko nodded then sat back but never letting go of Olivia's hands. Liv stared at their joined fingers and lightly caressed Keko's palm.
"God...I don't even know where to start," Liv blurted out nervously. Kekoa smiled lovingly and gave Liv's hand a squeeze.
"Start with where ever feels comfortable," Keko suggested softly. Olivia smiled softly at her and nodded.
"Have you ever wondered what it would have been like?" She asked quietly. Liv waited patiently as she saw Keko inhale deeply.
Kekoa's heart was pounding. She felt Olivia lightly caress her hand with her own and she felt a little calmer. Swallowing nervously, Keko averted her eyes and looked at the photo's that were on top of the DVD player.
Oh God! What do I say? What the hell do I say? Keko thought nervously.
Olivia reached out and tenderly touched her cheek. Kekoa glanced at her friend and couldn't look away.
"What do you mean?" Keko heard herself ask, mesmerized by the deep colour of Liv's eyes.
"Like you. Me. Us. What could have been if you and I had been together," Olivia whispered. Liv's fingers had slid down to lovingly cup Kekoa's chin. She traced her thumb along Kekoa's lower lip and she felt it tremble.
Yes! I've been fantasising about it since the moment I laid eyes on you, I've dreamt about you every single night, I've wanted you since forever, Keko thought desperately.
Kekoa was quiet and Olivia could tell she was fighting it. "Tell me. Please tell me the truth. I need to know," Liv pleaded. She could feel tears starting to form as she waited for Kekoa to answer.
Kekoa clenched her jaw hard, fighting the words that wanted to spill out of her. She saw Olivia's eyes get watery and she felt her own tears coming. Kekoa couldn't deny Olivia anything when Liv looked at her, so she looked away again.
"Please Keko. Please!" Liv begged. Keko had to look away and she shut her eyes tight keeping her tears in but it was useless, they just fell on their own. Kekoa felt tender hands cup her face and gently turn her head.
"Kekoa," Liv whispered. Kekoa wasn't strong enough anymore. 23 years of holding it in was finally taking its toll on Kekoa.
"Why?" Keko asked; the word ripped from her. She gripped Olivia's wrists as if they were the only things keeping from running. Olivia rested her forehead against Keko's and she continued to caress Keko's cheeks with her thumbs.
"Because it's all I've been thinking about," Liv answered roughly. They were both breathing hard but neither cared or noticed. "I need to know, Keko."
Kekoa's mind was spinning. It's all she's been thinking about?! Her heart sped up as the implications hit her with such force that if she wasn't sitting down, she would have fallen.
Olivia on the other hand was growing impatient. She slid one hand to the back of Keko's neck while the other grabbed a fist full of Keko's shirt and forcefully pulled her forward and kissed her hard.
She buried her hand in Kekoa's hair to keep her in place as she slipped her tongue inside. Both women moaned as their tongues battled each other, Keko buried her hands in Liv's hair and tiled her head to give her better access.
The kiss was soon getting intense and Kekoa reluctantly pulled back. They were struggling for breath as Kekoa nodded vigorously.
"Every single waking moment," Keko said breathlessly. Liv still had a fistful of Keko's shirt and jerked her forward playfully.
"Why the hell didn't you say anything?" Liv demanded, winded from that kiss. Keko shook the cobwebs from her head trying to grasp the situation.
"Why? You're straight! And you're my best friend!"
Closing her eyes, Liv sighed. "I'm not completely sure about that," she mumbled quietly.
"What?" Keko's eyes were wide as saucers. "You're not sure about what?"
Liv let out a breath she had been holding in and finally let go of Keko's shirt. She stood and wandered the short distance to the window. She ran a tired hand through her hair then rested her forehead against the cool window.
"What aren't you sure about Liv?" Keko asked quietly. She quickly wiped away the left over tears from her cheeks and made her way to stand next to Liv. She simply watched as Olivia inhaled then lifted her head and straightened her shoulders.
"I'm not so sure how straight I am anymore," Liv said very softly. She continued to stare out the window.
"Whoa," was all that Kekoa could say. She stumbled back to the couch and sat back down. Olivia tore her gaze from the window and watched as Keko rubbed her hands over her face. She was very quiet.
Olivia couldn't stand it anymore. "Will you say something?" She moved to kneel down in front of her dazed friend and ran her hands up and down Keko's thighs. Keko fought for words but nothing could convey what she was feeling.
Olivia noticed that Kekoa's eyes had become slightly glassy and was quickly worried.
"Honey, are you alright? Baby?" She held Keko's face in both her hands and gently shook her. Keko smiled tenderly and covered Olivia's hands with her own.
"I'm ok. Just a little…dizzy," Keko said sheepishly. Liv sighed in relief. They stayed that way for a moment.
"Do you know what your saying Liv? Do you really understand what you're saying?" Kekoa asked as Liv sat next to her. Keko leaned forward and rested her arms on her thighs. She glanced sideways and watched Olivia nod.
Kekoa looked away and shook her head slightly.
"I don't think you do," Kekoa said softly. This startled Olivia.
"What are you trying to say? That this is just a faze?" Olivia asked hurt at the suggestion that what she was feeling was nothing.
Feeling on edge, Kekoa stood and paced the floor like a caged animal. She ran both hands through her hair.
"That's not what I said Liv."
"Then what is it exactly are you trying to say? That I'm crazy for feeling this way? For what? Tell me Keko! Because I'm not sure what you want me to feel," Olivia demanded as she stood in front of Keko.
Shaking her head and holding up her hands, Keko pleaded with her friend.
"Liv, please. I don't want to fight with you." Kekoa cautiously wrapped her arms around Liv. She drew her close and held her tight.
"Then tell me why I shouldn't feel this way?" Liv felt exhausted as she wrapped her arms around Keko's waist. She rested her head against Keko's chest and she heard the strong beat of Keko's heart.
Sighing, Kekoa ran her hands up and down Olivia's back. "That's not what I meant. It's just…I just don't want this to be something you regret and have you hate me in the end," Kekoa explained quietly.
That had Olivia wondering what had happened to make Keko think that. Raising her head, Liv just stared curiously up at Keko. Looking down, Keko smiled sadly.
"I've had a couple of straight friends in your position. Like an idiot, I believed them, let them in and when things got to…weird, they turned and ran. One was married and she blamed me for her marriage falling apart. She said that I had ruined every relationship she had with her family."
Olivia could believe what she was hearing. She instinctively held on tighter as she spoke quietly.
"Do you honestly think I'd be anything like them? I would never do that to you. Especially you."
"I know. You're nothing like them. And that's what scares me, Liv. I don't want to ever hurt you."
Olivia finally understood. Reaching up and gently placing a hand against her cheek, Liv smiled up at Keko.
"I know sweetie. I'm just as scared as you are. But I know I wouldn't want to go through this with anyone other then you."
Kekoa and Liv stood there wrapped in each other's arms, innocently kissing the other. They both grew tired and Liv gently tugged at Keko.
"Come on, let's get to bed," Liv said as she led the way to her room. Kekoa hesitated at the entrance and Olivia smiled tenderly.
"It's alright sweetie. I just want to hold you tonight. Is that alright?"
Nodding, Kekoa let herself get pulled further into the room. Keko watched as Olivia undress herself. She looked away as Liv took a step forward, pressing herself flush against her.
Liv lifted the sweater that Keko wore but left the white t-shirt underneath on. She then reached for the buckle of her belt but stopped as she heard Keko inhale sharply.
"Liv?" Kekoa breathing was shallow but Olivia didn't miss the question in her eyes. She placed a chaste kiss on Keko's lips and gently rubbed her chest.
"Shhh, it's alright. I'm just going to undo your belt. I'm just want to hold you tonight," Liv said softly. She slid Kekoa's belt out of every loop while whispering soothing words to her. Olivia led her to the bed and climbed in, holding the covers for Keko.
Kekoa crawled into waiting arms and was immediately warmed. She settled comfortably in Olivia's strong arms and brought her arms around Liv's waist. Liv slipped a thigh in between Kekoa's legs and moved upwards but quickly stopped as she heard her gasp.
"Too much?" Liv asked, worried.
Kekoa shook her head. Olivia smiled and gently slipped her leg back where it was. She caressed Kekoa's shoulder and back until she fell asleep. Olivia watched Kekoa a moment longer then gently kissed her temple and settled in for the night with a smile on her face.
Tomorrow was going to be a bran new day.
