A/N: It's been a while so here's a little bit of romance to get back in the swing of things.
Spyklv – thanks again!
Chapter 26 – Harvey Wallbanger
Bo's eyes were burning into me while I tried to concentrate on safely navigating us to our next destination. It was nice for my ego to be so blatantly looked at, but I wished she was checking out the view outside of the car because Balmoral Beach is spectacular even on a grey, cold winter's day let alone a clear, warm one in late January like today.
"Just give me one clue". I felt the smile widen across my face instantly, my head shaking lightly in affection. "Trust me babe; you don't need a clue, you just need to focus your eyes on the very large tourist signs pointing us to where we're going".
"Yeah that's a problem for me because the view inside this car is much better than anything outside". Bo's smile was teasing and bright before she complied, finally sitting back in the seat and glancing out of the window briefly. Squeezing her thigh softly to get her attention, I motioned my head forward and to the right towards the huge brown Taronga Zoo sign sat just in front of us as we stopped at a set of traffic lights. "It won't just be a regular visit, I've got plans".
Oh boy did I have plans. I was finally on holidays; no more uni work and no more shifts at the clinic, just three weeks with Bo and I wanted today and tonight to be a grand kick off. She'd been cautious with me ever since Karen left the house with Mason on Thursday afternoon. I could see she wanted to help; talk about it, let me cry or scream or be angry. I didn't want to do anything with it all yet though, how could I? I'd put Karen up on a pedestal and for me it felt like a perfectly natural place for my big sister to stand. I'd always expected her to have my back when I'd falter and she had, but I'd never even considered that she could be the one to make a mistake or to stagger off course. Now I realised I hadn't been entirely fare to her, she'd never felt safe to crash and burn like I had. What had happened with Mark and me and what she'd done were different, but it all felt the same. Logically I knew that was unreasonable and I understood everything in theory, but reconciling what I knew in my head and what I felt in my heart was proving difficult. No more drama, that's what I really wanted for the next few weeks and so I wasn't talking about my sister. I was letting it all settle before I dealt.
I noticed Bo snuggle back into the seat some more, looking totally relaxed, maybe a little bit too relaxed. "If you're tired I can just show you around for an hour or so and then we can head into the city and check in where we're staying".
"No chance Lo. I want to experience these grand plans of yours. It's been an incredible morning and I can't wait to spend this afternoon and tonight with you so lead the way. I'm just stupid happy right now. Super full stomach plus quality time browsing through markets in the sun with you equals lazy, easy and breezy Bo".
"Well in that case, say your goodbyes to Mosman and hold onto that power nap while you can because we're not too far away from the Zoo and energy and concentration will be required". A smile came to my face as I focussed on the road in front of me once again and enjoyed just spending time alone with Bo.
3:45pm
I stood back a little from the group of kids plus my very adult girlfriend, all holding their hands out flat so the kangaroos could eat the dried feed being offered. She reached back into the paper bag, coming up empty, her eyes immediately landing on mine. I laughed as I walked back over and pulled out the last bag of food from my back pocket while I progressed, holding it out and watching as she took it eagerly just before planting a soft kiss on my lips and grabbing my hand so I followed her back over to the crowd.
Crouching down next to her on the grass I watched intently as she continued to feed the surrounding animals. "At least one of our national animals is making a good impression on you".
"Yeah well, the koalas looked like they were all drugged out of their minds and ready to fall out of their trees at any second".
I laughed lightly, moving to sit fully as I continued to watch. "I explained about them only eating the stems and leaves of specific types of eucalypts remember. They're low in nutrition though, so the Koalas adapted with a slow metabolism. It allows them to retain food in their digestive system for a long time, maximising the amount of energy they get from it, but at the same time it minimises their energy so much they sleep up to 18 hours a day".
"I do remember you telling me all that, I was definitely listening. You looked particularly yummy with the tour guide pose, emphasising the points you were making with your hands and pulling that quirky little grin you get when you're in your element".
"Yeah well, I sub-majored in Zoology during my original degree and used to volunteer here. I'd like to think I know my way around the embryology, evolution, classification, habits and habitats of a fair chunk of the animal kingdom". Bo's hand was still outstretched to the mob of kangaroos but her neck was craned to the side, her eyes ablaze, looking like she was ready to pounce on me. Honestly, I felt the same way. I wasn't sure what was in the air today but I couldn't stop touching her, even in the smallest ways and my focus had remained fixed to her solidly.
I stood up which effectively knocked us both back into the physical sense of here and now, reaching out my hand to help her up and pulling a little bit too hard so she kind of fell into me. My arm was firm around her waist though, her warm breath against my face enticing my eyes from hers down to her lips even as I breached the subject of us having to leave. "We need to make a move, there's somewhere we need to be soon".
The hands she had gripping my forearms moved slowly to cup my face, pulling me in for a kiss that was slow and sweet with just the right amount of heat thrown in for good measure. A fire had been lit and stoked between us all day, just content to smoulder for now. I knew it would eventually burn too bright to be ignored, but for now I'd stick with the old school romance I'd relied on so far. With some effort I pulled back, resting our foreheads together for a while before returning Bo's knowing smile and again holding out my hand which she took instantly. I led my lady on to what I was hoping would be the highlight of the afternoon.
4:15pm
This was my favourite part of Taronga; one of the original sections, right down the bottom overlooking the harbour and ferry terminal, walls of aged sandstone holding up unseen work spaces hidden underneath the grass and earth of the main zoo grounds. Just like she promised it would be, the old gate was unlocked as I approached, Bo scanning the surrounding pools and show pavilion quickly before following me through the fabricated, slightly rusted steel bars and down the darkened tunnel.
Bo hadn't asked where we were going and I appreciated it, my head swimming with memories as we continued along through the dim and damp space towards stark light and happy humming up ahead. I'd never felt a need or a want to showcase all of myself like this with anyone before, but now I couldn't wait to get Bo suited up and in the water, sharing a little bit more of myself and what I loved.
Apart from the bright lights, the smell of fish was the next thing to slap you in the face as we finally reached the underground food preparation area reserved for penguins and seals. Crystal's gaze lifted from the bucket of fish she was prepping, the knife in her hand replaced haphazardly on the table before a cocky smile spread across her face as she looked at me then to Bo and back again.
"Finally she arrives! Thought for a while there maybe you got lost". She looked exactly the same, all eyes, mop of blonde hair, wetsuit pulled off her shoulders with its limp arms hanging down past her waist, leaving only a wet bikini and trainer's whistle covering her top half.
"Not like I could forget Crys; I spent months chopping fish, testing water and scrubbing down this room only to repeat the process again and again and again".
"Yeah well, it was my job to show you the non-glamorous underbelly of Zoo life". She moved from around the stainless steel table, surprising me with a crushing hug which thankfully was more body than arms because her hands were still covered in fish slime. "It's good to see you hon, you look good". Crystal and I both turned to Bo at the same time, Crystal smiling charmingly at her while I looped my arm back around her body in reassurance. "And you must be Bo. It's really great to meet you. I'm Crystal McDonald, Zoo Keeper extraordinaire to Taronga's family of Australian Sea-lions and Lauren's mentor while she took part in our volunteer program a while back".
I hadn't missed the undertone of fire that had passed across Bo's features at mine and Crystal's familiarity, so I wasn't surprised in the least when she moved just a little bit closer to me still, even while returning Crystals smile. "Nice to meet you". For some reason, Crystal found something in this situation funny, giving out an easy chuckle before reining it in and moving back to pick up her bucket and nudge her head to where I knew the tunnel would lead us to a change room, some stairs down to another walkway across to the show pavilion and pool deck. "Time to get this show on the road ladies, Arnold and Betsy are all primed to show off for their special guests". She always spoke with so much enthusiasm and pride when talking about the animals she cared for. I'd seen people easily mistake her upbeat nature as ditsy, but I'd also seen that assumption cut to shreds just as fast by her initiative, insight and professionalism. You practically had to sell your soul to get a Zoo Keeper position here to start with and then it took all your time and every ounce of razor sharp skill and experience you possessed to keep it. She had this job and had kept it for more than five years for good reason.
Crystal moved quickly now, smiling coyly at me as she took two wetsuits off their hangers in the locker room and then moved to the stairwell. "Lauren I'm sure you remember where everything is. See you pool side when you're ready".
Bo was busy scanning our surroundings while I was busy looking at her. "She's kind of a whirlwind I know".
"Yeah I'd have to agree with you there babe".
I smiled lightly as I grabbed the wetsuits, jostled the pack on my back and led the way through to the female bathroom around the back of the locker area. "It's really cold down here. We'll need to be quick". One perfectly sculpted eyebrow rose at my words so I went about answering any questions with fast action. I hung the suits on a hook and deposited the pack on the long wooden bench to our left pulling out a zip lock bag with our bikinis that I'd stealthily packed this morning.
"I'll be really disappointed if you want to reminisce by having me clean the pool with you and we're not swimming with some seals".
I smiled coyly as I turned my back on her and started to strip. I couldn't resist craning my neck back over my shoulder and looking her up and down just before I let my shorts drop to my ankles. "It's a personal goal of mine never to disappoint you".
I smiled as warm hands hit my rapidly cooling skin, sliding gently over the curves of my sides as lips attached to my shoulder. I turned in her embrace, lifting the hem of her shirt and quickly discarding her bra until we were both bare-chested and pressed tightly together.
"It really is cold". Goosebumps were puckering up all over her skin and it made me serious all of a sudden, my arms wrapping her up and holding on tight. After delivering just a single kiss, I handed the bikini to her and we both started to get dressed in silence. She followed my lead, sitting down to get the wetsuit part of the way up before standing before me expectantly. I turned her around as I stood and this time it was my fingers ghosting her back and my lips at her shoulder and neck as I zipped together the thick, spongey material as slowly as I could before letting her hair fall back into place.
It was a strange sensation, being barefoot yet otherwise expansively covered as we made our way down the stairs and across the passageway, the heat thankfully increasing as we got closer to the outside air again. Sure enough when we came out into the sun and suddenly overlooking the main pool deck, Crystal was waiting patiently, stroking down Arnold's glossy-wet fur while he puffed out a fine spray of water and went to steal a fish from the bucket.
"He hasn't changed at all". Crystal laughed lightly at my words but didn't look up at us; she just kept her focus on the large male who was happily lapping up the attention. Bo's fingers squeezed mine lightly and I couldn't help but take some time to appreciate the excited expression on her face.
"Bo I'd like you to meet Arnold".
Once I'd made the introduction and Bo moved in a little bit closer to the big Bull, Crystal seemed to snap right into professional mode. "He's been here at Taronga for seven years now and has made himself quite at home. You might be able to see some scarring or jagged flesh on the fin he's holding up. They were unsure of the cause, but from what I understand from speaking with colleagues when I first came on board, he'd been involved in some kind of attack, probably a shark. Our specialist surgeons repaired the damage and he can swim without issue, but if he had been released back into the wild his chances of survival would have been slim when you factor in other large bulls defending their territory and his decreased ability to effectively evade predators in the open harbour and ocean, so he found a new home here".
I could tell Bo wanted to touch him, but was unsure if she was allowed to. "He seems cheeky". Crystal smiled brightly while I nudged Bo closer. "You'd be spot on…..he's a feisty fella and he's been busy". I looked to her in question as she gave Arnold a firm pat, tossed him a fish and signalled him back into the water. No sooner had he slid his way back in, the silver streak that was Betsy moved through from one of the smaller pools and surfaced at the water's edge. With a raised arm from Crystal, Betsy plonked herself up onto the shallowed water ramp. The blonde was beaming at me and I could clearly see why.
"A successful breeding program this time around. Go Arnold".
"She's pregnant?" I smiled widely at Bo's question, nodding a resounding yes.
"OK ladies, time to get in the water. Bo, I'll talk you through some fun facts while you swim. There's some masks up here is you want to dive down and get a good look at them while they're showing off". My hands were itching to give Betsy a thorough examination and my mind was wondering so many things; how far along was she, were there any complications, would they separate Arnold from her and the pup once it was born? Bo had eagerly moved to pick up a mask and looked really excited to get in the pool, so I pushed the vet in me aside and got back to my date.
6:30pm
"They were so playful and so amazing under the water, it almost looked like they were gliding rather than swimming and I can't believe how smooth Arnold felt to touch. He was so huge but really gentle and kind of sweet". Bo was beaming, hair still damp from the swim that we stretched out for as long as we could, so long we wouldn't have as much time as I wished we had to get ready for dinner. Betsy but especially Arnold had really played it up all afternoon; loving the extra special attention and the extra bucket of fish they'd been given. I hadn't been able to resist showing off a little bit myself, encouraging Bo to dive deeper with me, to have a go at feeding them fish and easily spitting out fact after fact in between laughing, splashing and touching her in the water at every possible opportunity.
"Thank you so much for organising the swim for us Lo; it was one of the most amazing things I've ever done". I smiled brightly but kind of shrugged off the compliment as I finally pulled us into the front of house at the hotel, a parking attendant immediately appearing on the passenger side. "Wow, OK this is where we're staying?"
"Sure is". We both stepped out of the car, Bo staring at the open view of Sydney Harbour peeking out the sides of the sandstone and glass building. I handed over my keys, took the numbered parking ticket in one hand and the handle for our shared suitcase in the other, shooting Bo a quick smile as we made our way inside to check in. Ten minutes spent taking care of business found us in a pristinely polished mirrored elevator heading up, a smile coming to my face as Bo crept in front of me, her palms resting flat against the glass as her lips pressed to mine with purpose. I kissed her back; it was really the only thing I would ever want to do when presented with the opportunity and I wondered if it was just luck or some kind of universal intervention that kept us moving without stop, delay or interruption. Her hands moved from that glass eventually, sliding under the front of my shirt and straight up to cover my breasts, fingers rubbing over nipples as I arched forward, giving her more. My own hands kept a flimsy purchase on her hips, so distracted by the heat spreading like wildfire through my blood they were rendered almost useless in the moment. Just when it all became too much, when the need to feel her skin naked and heaving against mine was all I could focus on, the frantic pace of her tongue thrusting into my mouth slowed and those hands reluctantly vanished. Her hands were warm as they moved the damp bikini now hiked up on my chest back down to cover me, my shirt following. The elevator sounded with an enthusiastic ding just before the doors opened and for some reason we both stayed exactly where we were, laughing hysterically.
"Getting it on in the elevator…..such a cliché". I nodded as I smiled, still breathless and pressed to the glass.
"You started it".
"You deserved it and…..I fully intend to finish it later". She stuck her foot out of the doors so they stayed open this time, her eyes beckoning me to follow. "You left behind a Titanic happy ending hand print". She only had a chance to glance back briefly, but I know she caught it. "I know you Lauren; you'd be lying to me if you said part of the appeal of staying in a beautiful, pristine hotel wasn't getting a little bit dirty in it".
My eyes scanned the suite numbers as we passed, both of us wearing matching grins as we walked holding hands. "Dirty with you is always good". Finally we arrived at room 608 and I stopped outside the door, bringing Bo in close. "Tonight though, actually every night, every day, every minute with you is so much more than that. I just wanted some time that was special, just ours". My head dropped to the carpet for a couple of seconds before I lifted it back up and met her gaze again. "We've only really had a couple of actual dates and something about that made me want to go big".
I chose that opportunity to slot my key card in and swipe, pushing the door open. I let Bo go on ahead, following eagerly as she stopped by the huge window, curtains drawn with a perfect view of the Opera House.
My chin on her shoulder, arms around her was a great place to be and I soaked up her warmth and a view I hadn't enjoyed for a while. "You know you're setting yourself up to fail right?" I stayed happily in place, letting out a half sigh, half laugh in recognition. "You're setting the bar so high with these lush hotels that when we actually get to having a normal, boring life where we live in the same space for more than a few weeks or months, picking a local place to eat and debating whether we're too tired to catch a movie or not will be a major fall".
"You planned the last official date we got to have in New York, so this is me getting to spoil you. But for just the record, a simple dinner out and maybe a movie, or not, sounds amazing too". Bo turned around suddenly, her eyes meeting mine urgently. "We'll get there".
I nodded in the affirmative. "Yeah we will. But tonight's not over and as usual, I have plans and we're running a little late".
"Mmmm, I remember New York involved staying in to eat". My body responded the way it always did where Bo was involved; it heated and quaked, ached and throbbed just from the thought of her.
"Trust me…..you'll really, really, really like where I'm taking you". I was trying valiantly to keep on track, trying my hardest not to just blow it all to hell and throw down right here on the carpet in front of the window.
Bo continued to smile at me, that delicious and devilish smile I loved while she just stared and waited without answering. I shook my head and laughed as I puffed out a big breath of air, trying to find some relief or semblance of composure. "It's my favourite restaurant, great view, great food, even better bar and not over the top fancy or pretentious". I looked to the ceiling briefly, my smile quirking. "I really want to share it with you".
That seemed to soften the rawness I'd been seeing in Bo's eyes, or maybe just put it off for a bit, I couldn't be sure. "What time's our reservation?"
"7:45" was the simple answer I gave and she nodded quickly.
"Shower with me?"
"No"
"No?"
"Sorry but I only have so much restraint to go with this flux of romantic intention". I glanced back out to the harbour, still buzzing with boats and ferries this time of night in summer. "And I kind of like the idea of waiting for you to get ready and you waiting for me. I don't know why".
Bo wrapped me up in a hug, her hands stroking up and down my back before she delivered a soft kiss to my lips and a whisper in my ear. "I'd better make sure the big reveal's worth it then".
7:50pm
I couldn't take my eyes off Bo; not since I'd stepped out of the stormy marble lined bathroom to find her standing statuesque out on the hotel balcony, a light breeze blowing through her lush dark curls, a perfect, signature, long black dress covering the skin I had memorised so intimately now.
The real dent to my so far iron clad romantic armour came on first glance of a split in the shimmering fabric, all the way up to just under mid-thigh, not even really noticeable until she moved and then it was all I could look at. That hint of skin would be the death of my quiet restraint tonight.
I'd reached her quickly, not paying much attention to the very satisfied look her eyes were giving to my own big reveal. I'd just kissed her hard, savouring the feeling of her pressed into me and the sweet and warm salt air around us.
We were only just late and that was impressive. I'd guided us through the Library floor and to the elevator beyond, probably confusing her, but knowing Café Sydney awaited us; ambient and welcoming on the fifth floor of Customs House. This time she stayed next to me rather than trying to instigate any action in the elevator, her fingers nestled snuggly in between my own.
The balcony was fully open in the restaurant, a perfect harbour view again visible amongst the dark wood and black stone and tile interior, tempered by the soft glow of orange lighting. After giving my name, we were told our table would be ready in around fifteen minutes and were invited to relax in the bar with a complimentary cocktail. I knew the lateness was only due to the fact I'd been assured of a balcony edge table when I'd made the reservation and the couple finishing up their meal were probably soaking up as much of the view as they could while they could. I couldn't blame them for that.
Bo and I sunk down on a vintage, black leather couch, angling to face each other, taking in the amazing smells coming from the kitchen and trying to decide on what drinks to order from the long list. "I like it how the cocktails are categorised as before dinner and after dinner, nice touch". I lifted my concentration from the menu to Bo, enamoured with the casual arm she had around the back of the couch and me, her legs crossed so that damn split showed every inch of gloriously soft and smooth skin it was intended to.
"That's part of why I love this place; you can just come here late for a few intense drinks and a dessert if you wanted to, it's relaxed enough, but the food is amazing so I usually can't resist the full restaurant experience at least once a year". Rich brown eyes looked at me intently, a smile quirking on beautiful lips. With an intent all its own, my hand reached out to touch those lips, my thumb running across the soft surface, a hint of red still evident, but mostly faded from our earlier kisses. I continued my exploration, skimming a cheek, down through the tips of curls and finally to Bo's hand, taking it back into my own. "You look….wow, absolutely wow Bo". The comment earned me a bright smile and a warm body moving in closer. "Thanks, but…..you haven't seen what I'm wearing underneath the dress yet".
And that comment earned her a frustrated and aroused growl from deep in my chest. After a few breaths and shared smiles I leaned back into the leather and laughed lightly, the feeling making me tingle warmly all over. Once we'd both settled, I picked up the black bound menu again, returning my eyes to hers and holding a steady smile. "My resolve is like steel, I refuse to be broken before I even get to buy you a drink".
"This drink's free remember".
"So true, guess I'll have to hold on just a bit longer".
"I'll try to make that as difficult as possible because as much as I love this date, I always want you Lauren. My resolve doesn't exist where you do".
"Ladies, your table's ready. I can take your drink orders now and show you through to the balcony to be seated". I wanted to laugh again, but I didn't. Bo looked adorably annoyed at the interruption to our little bubble while I tried to salvage my intentions. With as straight a face as I could muster, I turned my full attention to her. "Bo, what would you like?"
With a growl of her own this time, she quirked an eyebrow, bit her lip and then finally smiled, resigned to the fact our game of flirtation would have to continue later. "I'll have the Summer Pineapple Iced Tea with a double shot of tequila". If Bo wanted to drown the burn, I'd happily follow that idea. "I'll go with the Harvey Wallbanger". The waiter smiled at the order, quickly commenting with "A forgotten classic, great choice. This way ladies".
9:30pm
"This is so yummy". Bo handed me the single martini glass we were sharing while waiting for dessert to arrive, watching closely as I took my first sip. The pink salted rim hit first but was washed quickly amongst butterscotch from the schnapps, sweet caramel, Kahlua and cream. I replaced the glass between us on the table top, our fingers brushing as she picked it up again. "It packs a punch too". Bo nodded and laughed as I inhaled loudly, trying to sooth the hot lick of alcohol at the back of my throat.
There was something I found insanely intimate and sexy about sharing our 'afterthought' cocktail. Maybe it was the blanket of humidity that had settled over the city and harbour or the way our hands had alternated between playing with fingertips on the tabletop throughout the amazing meal and sneaking fleeting touches of exposed skin underneath the pretence of cover. Every graze of her skin on mine as we exchanged the martini glass across the table just added to the wish I had to taste the salted caramel from her mouth and tongue directly. Bo placed the glass down again and this time my fingers and hers stayed locked around the stem together just as a waiter arrived and placed down a coconut crumble cheesecake and chocolate peanut tart.
Bo had wanted me to pick both dessert options so we could share them and I was happy to see her mouth practically water despite how full we both felt after an entrée and main course. She was the first to spoon into the chocolate tart and I couldn't help but watch as her tongue came out to swipe at her lips after. She looked completely satisfied at the choice and satisfied with my reaction to her, picking up the other fork, she handed it to me with a smile.
I went straight for the cheesecake, chocolate never really being my top choice with desserts and I swooned as the cool and creamy mixture hit my taste buds. The restaurant was far quieter now, most of the inside tables cleared but still busy out on the balcony. "So is there a plan for after dinner? Actually, what's the plan for tomorrow and tomorrow night? I know you said pack for two nights, but seriously, we can just head home after the airport tomorrow".
"Lets recap; Kenzi flew out from Boston, had three hours in transit in Honolulu before the connecting flight of 10 hours into Sydney. She'll need drinks and a big night out. Nic organised a serviced apartment around Haymarket tomorrow night. She'll meet us there after work". I lifted my head, unsure about two things.
"Nicole and Kenzi together".
Bo smiled up at me, seemingly not as apprehensive about that scenario as I was. I just had a feeling in the pit of my stomach that there'd be fireworks.
"It'll be interesting".
"Interesting's the only word you want to use to describe that particular scenario?" Bo shrugged it off with a small laugh and another mouthful of chocolate tart. "I don't really care right now Lauren. I just want to enjoy you and worry about that shit later". I nodded slowly, apparently not the only one simply wanting to let all worries flap around in the breeze for a while longer before grabbing hold of them.
Half an hour of doing just that later and with our next destination in mind, I navigated us out of the restaurant, down George Street and into the Rocks. It was all steep hills, cobblestone and sandstone as we ducked in and out of small in-coves, passing the myriad of pubs on offer through backstreets and down alleyways. Finally I brought us to a stop, Bo looking around for any sign of where the hell we were but finding nothing except an oversize, dark wooden door and the intricate coloured glass and black polished metal lantern hanging out over it.
"What's behind door number one?" I pulled Bo in close and to the side so we were out of the passing pedestrian traffic, our fronts pressing together, my fingers clasped together on her lower back.
"Colorida La Linterna". She immediately went to ask for more, but my lips were a welcomed silencer against hers. This kiss started out slow and sweet, only meant as a distraction on my behalf, but as it always seemed to, it escalated fast as hands explored and tongues caressed. I was momentarily lost to the sensation of her soft, wet lips, the smell of her perfume and hair and the contradictory satisfied yet frustrated groan she always made when we kissed.
I reluctantly broke away but kept her close to me, enjoying our shared laboured breathing with a grin on my face that I'm sure flashed 'crazy in love'. "Rough translation is coloured lantern. Ready to go in?"
"I have no idea, am I?" I nodded lightly, pushing open the door and allowing her to enter first. The entryway was deceptive in that it was only a landing; the real entry was down the flight of stairs we took together rapidly, reaching the bottom I walked us through the door-less wooden frame, past the bar and the reasonably sized crowd enjoying drinks and lounging around. Glancing back over my shoulder I watched Bo take it all in, this place hopefully having the same welcome calming effect it had always had on me. The booth I'd reserved was one of the middle two of the four available, purple curtains drawn back in invitation for only us to enter. The space was small, just a round table and a custom, high backed curved leather chase coiled luxuriously around it like a snake. With one flick of my wrist I pulled the knot, the plush curtain no longer restrained, blocked out the bar and sealed the two of us together again.
I knew in about an hour the sounds of the conversations going on in the bar would be drowned out by music, leaving only a small window of time for talking. "You're gonna have to get me a drink so I can catch up hon". I smiled in response, knowing ordering a drink was an easy task for the two of us. "Sorry, I know it was a whirlwind tour from the restaurant to here. I wanted to take you dancing, but not to a club exactly".
"OK, that's kind of a relief actually, because when you strode us in here and whisked us in to this booth and behind a curtain I was getting more of a peep show kind of vibe and you should know by now, I don't like to share". I couldn't contain my laughter and Bo seemed pleased she'd pulled it from me.
"Peep show wasn't what I was going for, no. I've always felt more like an hour here makes you want to smoke a cigar or kiss someone passionately in the rain like a giant black and white movie cliché".
"That's an interesting take on things". I nodded and smiled again because even though Bo mightn't get it yet, she was already being absorbed into the natural atmosphere down here, her legs crossed boldly, arm wrapped around the back of the booth, curled around me. "I literally stumbled into this place late one night; actually it was probably more like early one morning. It was after my meltdown, but I'd felt like having a few drinks and I had. I didn't want to be alone, but I didn't want to be around anyone specific either". Bo just nodded as I tried to recount my jumbled feelings from that time in my life. "There was this couple dancing in the street, The Tango, just randomly for a solid minute before they disappeared through a door under a giant coloured lantern". I paused for a breath, Bo smiling and eager next to me, her fingers running gently through the tips of my hair around my shoulder. "They'd left me mesmerised and so I followed them here. It probably should They reminded me that there were still people out there who loved each other successfully and who simply wanted to be around each other, who had fun and were full of passion. I felt so void of all those things at that time. Later I discovered it wasn't a fluke that they were all such great dancers; there's a studio back down on George Street, Ballroom and Latin classes mostly, the students come here after and they just keep on doing their thing".
"But you know how to dance right? I hadn't missed that when Nic mentioned it". She smiled, a lip caught up in her teeth and for the first time I could remember since I was probably ten, I felt bashful as she looked at me with intense interest. "Didn't you ever want to join them?"
I laughed lightly at that, thinking back fondly. "My dad always used to say that without a partner of equal fire it's all just turning in circles and stepping sideways like a fool".
"Lauren Lewis, are you asking me to be your dance partner?"
"Apparently not very smoothly, but yes that's exactly what I'm asking".
Bo smiled brightly for a long while before moving in to kiss me soft and slow, just a taste of things to come before pulling back. "I'd be honoured". I nodded, feeling light and airy and carefree in the moment. "You'll need to get me slightly drunk though; if I'm getting up there with the semi-professionals, drinks, we need some drinks".
"The beauty of reserving these booths; you just open the curtain in signal that you're ready to order and close it again for complete privacy".
10:15pm
"Holy shit Lo". I'd opened the curtain for the fourth time but this time we actually stood up with the intention of moving and not ordering another drink. "Is that a holy shit because the alcohol just smacked you or because the floor's packed?"
"Little bit of both". Bo's fingers escaped my own for a moment, the club's lighting still dim but with a crackling energy generated by the fluidly moving bodies and the music. "I want to be out there with you, but I don't know any of the steps".
"We've never done anything in the right order, so why start now. Just keep your eyes and your hands on me". I stepped back into her space, chest to chest, an arm around her waist and one floating aloft for the taking. "Dance with me?"
With her hand back in mine, I led us out to the floor, only to its edge as we integrated mid song. My memory held so many terms from the classes I'd taken; poise, frame, posture, musicality and expression, timing, body alignment and shape. We had none of the classic features of the couples around us, but it was the most fun I'd ever had in my life. Songs changed pace, seconds ticked on into minutes and minutes became an hour eventually, or more, I couldn't keep track, didn't really want to. I was breathless and sweaty; laughing hysterically with Bo for no reason other than we wanted to. Other times we were serious and I'd move in closer, position our bodies like they were meant to be positioned for a particular dance and it was a magic cohesion. I'd spin her out and pull her back in, walk us exaggeratedly chest to chest a few paces and then smile and kiss her, breaking character.
It wasn't until everything slowed dramatically, the music and our movement, every couple seemingly content to just be that I felt the mood shift. Bo's eyes were dark as they stalked my own, her hands gripping the fabric of my dress, so close but not close enough. It was time to go and so we did, walking hand in hand back up the stairs, out onto the street, free from the rainbow glow cast by the colored lantern and into the back of the first taxi that stopped.
We put on a show, lips locked desperately, hands wandering at will into hair and onto skin. I was right; that one split of black material was my undoing, my nemesis as I slid my hand gently along a firm thigh at every chance I got, inching higher until Bo's hand would grab my own to stop its progress, her head shaking lightly even as we kept on kissing. There was a blush that never reached my cheeks as I paid the driver cash and we made our way back into the hotel foyer. Bo was ahead, impatiently pressing the lift button repeatedly to get it into action so we could get upstairs. I had an idea though, a picture that I wanted tattooed in my head and my heart before the night was over. I crept up slowly behind her, pushing my chest tightly to her back, my breath hot against her neck as I whispered. "Come with me".
"Lauren, I need to be with you".
I nodded in agreeance, moving away just a bit and waiting for her to follow. She grabbed my hand as we walked across the shiny tiled floors, sweeping past the front desk and out through the back door onto the wooden pier sitting suspended on the harbour. "One more dance". I held my hand out and again she took it, accepting my offer and becoming my partner once more. It was exactly what I wanted; to feel her pressed against me as we slow danced, the Harbour Bridge flanked by a clear sky and half-moon, no one around except a newly married couple, blissful and smiling under the lamplight, their photographer snapping picture after picture.
"She is something to behold, elegant and bold". I sung softly to Bo as we swayed, rewarded with her bright and surprised smile. "She is electricity, running to my soul". With a chuckle to myself, I positioned one hand supportively on her lower back, the other taking hers for strength as I dipped her down slowly before pulling her back up and against me firmly. "And I could easily lose my mind; the way you kiss me will work each time, calling me to come back to bed, singing Georgia on my mind". Just like she was fulfilling my request, her lips plundered mine with little restraint and I was adrift in her again. She looked dazed as she pulled back, breathing heavily for a long minute.
"And I could easily lose my mind; the way you kiss me will work each time, pulling me back into the flames and I'm burning up again, I'm burning up". I was the one crashing back into her this time; my hand running down her back, over the curve on her ass, then around to the thigh I'd been craving all night. Just like in the cab, her hand covered mine, her head shaking. "Unless you're willing to fuck me right here Lauren, we need to go upstairs". They were the only words spoken as the world around me blurred. I registered my feet taking one step after the other, travelling upwards quickly and then trying to get the door to our room unlocked and open with lips on my neck and breasts pressing into my back.
On the other side of that door, once it had been slammed closed, there was only Bo and an overwhelming urgency to connect. I dropped to my knees ready to worship, my hands running the length of silky skin from shin to knee dragging the material in my way with them and bunching it in place as I gripped her ass hard. The sheer, blood red lace was soaking wet against my lips, her smell intoxicating me further. I'd stop to appreciate the sight of her in them later but in that moment I worked on getting us both from the centre of the room where we stood to the lounge chair only a few small metres away. I was reluctant to move from my position, my tongue sweeping out over her softly as she moaned in response. The seconds it took for me to stand, she was already backing up, my knees eventually registering the change from soft carpet to cool leather from their new place on either side of Bo's hips.
I'd led our date and dancing all night but now it seemed Bo was ready to turn the tables with nimble fingers unzipping down my back then unclasping my bra, sliding both sets of straps together down my arms. My need to taste her was too great though and with a bruising kiss goodbye I dropped back down, lifting her thighs up and tugging those beautiful panties enough that I had access to what I needed. I held her legs suspended, loving the feeling of the dress and her thighs pressing against my face as I plundered the warmth of her sex with my tongue. "Lauren…..oh fuck baby". Those words whispered only drove me on, my mouth working against her as the legs around me trembled in response.
Another minute or so of my tongue and just like that she came, so fast and so hard and I stayed where I was, licking softly and breathing heavy. I knew this was just the beginning, something we both needed so that we were in control enough to really enjoy each other. I don't know how many minutes passed before my kisses dropped down one thigh, allowing it to fall to the ground as I sat back, my eyes meeting hers with a smile. I took her shoes off her feet one by one and helped her to stand. I stripped the dress from her body and she quickly did the same as I stepped out of my own heels.
By the time she laid me down on the kind sized bed, it was her skin on mine, just like it was always meant to be. I couldn't keep track of her hands or her mouth because it felt like they were everywhere all at once, blazing tracks of fire as they worked me over. Bo pulled up and beckoned me onto her lap, her lips surrounding a nipple and tugging as long fingers pushed into me swiftly. The groan that tumbled out felt pained even to my own ears, but it was only out of relief at finally being filled and stretched so completely. Bo's rhythm wasn't gentle, it was claiming and passionate, touching me in all the places she knew I loved to be touched and at a pace she loved to bestow upon me.
I rode her fingers with everything I had, random sounds falling from my mouth in an attempt to get her to fuck me harder and deeper. I never really had to ask though; every time were together she just seemed to know what I needed and was always so eager to deliver it. With determined hips I thrust forward, wanting to cum and searching for that magic friction from her palm against my clit. I could feel everything building in my gut; it felt like love and passion, burning hot at her touch and I screamed in triumph as the bubble finally burst. Once I'd opened my eyes again, she guided me back down to the bed, her leg throwing itself over my hips in possession and transferring the wetness coating her fingers onto my nipple where she eagerly sucked it off. We'd been slowly building to these moments all day and now it seemed there would be no lull to the high, Bo just kept on stoking the fire with her mouth and hands, never allowing my body to calm. I watched her lips on my breast, our eyes meeting often and my muscles clenching each time.
I couldn't keep all the feelings trapped inside forever though and eventually I groaned out. "I want you again. I always want you". My forearm rested across my eyes then as my lower body arched off the bed when fingers slipped through my wetness and back inside lightly. I shook my head from side to side on the pillow, only stopping when Bo positioned her body back on top of mine fully and I felt her own wetness sliding insistently along my thigh. Then my arm moved and my view was unobstructed, my hands joining the action and guiding her hips as they thrust with purpose over and over.
She looked so perfect, chest flushed and breathing desperately as her breasts bounced in front of me. I couldn't help the hand that reached out to pinch a swollen bud hard, making her gasp and her movement erratic. It was a shock as I stilled her momentum and rolled us over. "I want to feel…your pussy against mine. I want to cum just like this". The almost desperate look she'd worn as I flopped her onto her back was replaced quickly in understanding, but just as I'd found a position we could work with and started a rhythm against her, she stilled me and flipped us again. "Bo" was all I managed to get out before her mouth covered mine and pulled a moan from it. Her hands took purchase on my breasts, then the bed beside us and then my hips as she pulled me down a bit and lifted my leg up, kissing my ankle as her beautiful sex slid languidly against mine. We moved together slowly at first, then furiously as my leg dropped and our angle changed. Breast to breast our bodies slapped together, the glorious sounds of frantic sex filling the room for what felt like an eternity.
"You feel so fucking good. I'm so close baby…I wanna cum". Her words were loud, probably embarrassingly so, but it felt too good to care and so I kept on moving, the bed getting an epic structural workout. "God Bo….yes". Just like that we exploded together, my nails digging into her back so hard I think I drew blood, her teeth sinking into the top of my breast as a scream tore through her throat. We lay together panting for a long time, eventually lying on our sides, separated but only a breath away. We were content to just be, to just live in the moment we'd created as this amazing day ticked over into another.
Her eyes had closed briefly but I continued to stare. "I am so in love with you". She smiled brightly, stretching out all lazy and content. "I love you too, so much. Thank you for today or yesterday depending on whatever the hell time it is right now".
"My pleasure" snuck out and she hummed in response, her arm reaching out to grip at the small of my back. "My legs don't work Lauren". I laughed lightly, my eyes closing sleepily. We never even made it under the covers; we just stayed where we'd landed. "Well order room service when we wake up".
"Good plan".
Sydney Airport, 12:45pm
I stood bleary eyed next to Bo in the small crowd assembled at the bottom of the arrivals ramp. She seemed nervous or anxious, as well as excited which was a weird combination I put down to whatever talk they needed to have. I was really looking forward to seeing Kenz and spending some time together showing her my world just as she'd shown me parts of hers.
I squeezed Bo's hand with a smile as bodies started to come down the ramp having cleared bag checks and customs. She wasn't hard to spot, hair and boots, swaggering down casually until she eyeballed us. With a huge smile, the trolley she'd been wheeling was left discarded and she pulled us both into a massive hug, squeezing tightly.
"Hey Kenz". Bo was the first to speak, keeping it simple but unable to control her smile.
"What up bitches! Damn it's good to see you two; I've missed your faces". She moved back in for a second group hug, this one brief before walking back a little bit and collecting the over-loaded trolley.
"Lead the way ladies, day light's burning".
END CHAPTER 26
Thanks to Vance Joy and his beautiful music which I can't stop listening to.
Hopefully you're still on board for the end of this story. More to come soon. Thanks for reading!