Plastic off the Sofa
The westward departing sun had completed its task of drying any remnants of morning dew. Fields of open land swept by swiftly. Grass and weeds overtook sporadic plots while others were mowed into compliance. Sudden emergences of homes, schools and businesses would break into nature. A reminder of the unfamiliar destination ahead.
The ladies softly sang, no doubt grinning from some memory attached to the older track that played. But Michonne relaxed in the backseat, gazing out the window and letting the sounds of neo-soul tickle her ears. She was enjoying this journey since it recapped their younger days. This venture much more comfortable in Sasha's Nissan Rogue. Working air conditioning and leather seats contrasted the beat-up hooptie they would pile in to get around before.
Her best friend volunteered to be the designated driver for tonight. The club outing three weeks ago had gone a bit south, but they all decided to carve out more girl time. They really did miss each other and Michonne's easy agreement set everything in motion. Bi-monthly hangouts were the decided deal. But they added this as a last-minute bonus when they confessed to boredom earlier in the afternoon.
The SUV slowed, signaling the last-minute hour-long drive was coming to an end. On a residential street, they pulled up to park in front of a ranch-style house. It was set back slightly deeper than its neighbors so the lawn was more spacious. Manicured green grass bordered the stonework leading to the front door. The paved driveway had a couple of vehicles claiming spots, one of which was oddly a police car. A partial gated fence established the entry to the backyard where a couple of people stood, conversing. Soft rock played at a low level to proclaim this was an event that may well be winding down for the night.
"It kind of looks like we missed it." Andrea fretted.
"Ty said they would still be hanging out as long as the guests wanted." Sasha shrugged.
"Is he here yet?"
"No." Karen arbitrarily answered, making them all turn to look at her reddening face. Then they giggled, knowing she'd had varying crushes on Tyreese over the years but never could make a move since he usually had a girlfriend. But now he was single and with Sasha's needless approval, they had been chatting since the girl's night at his moonlighting gig.
"He'll be here in a few minutes. He stopped to pick up a few cases of beer and some wine. But his friend Abraham is coming out to greet us now." she read from her phone.
"Okay." they smiled and waited.
Tyreese was the one originally invited by Abraham, a friend from his main job as a firefighter. Sasha remembered Ty telling her about the get-together he would attend after work and gave him a call. He double-checked as to whether bringing people along would be okay and was told the more the merrier. Liquor seemed like the customary gift a group of pseudo-party crashers should bring to a barbeque.
A large redheaded man waved at them as he walked down the driveway, encouraging them to get out of the vehicle.
"I'm Abe and who might you pretty ladies be?" he asked skimming them all but spent a moment longer on Sasha.
"I'm Karen." she stepped forward and the thick-mustached man grinned.
"I've heard a lot about you."
The giddiness of Tyreese namedropping Karen almost overpowered her before she pointed them out for introductions. "That's Andrea, Rosita, Michonne and Sasha." she said, gesturing to each as she named them.
"Nice to meet you all." the burly man replied, his eyes not traveling away from Sasha until his next statement. "Follow me."
The long drive was already proclaiming its perks, Michonne mused as they walked to the backyard. The city limits had always been her preferred stomping ground. She couldn't imagine a suburban life being appealing for many years but this tree-lined quaintness did have its advantages.
"Hey everybody! Welcome our new friends!" Abe announced as they walked into the relaxed atmosphere of the yard that had about twelve more people mingling. The guests all turned and waved, welcoming them in. The hospitable energy fed into the ladies and they smiled, happy to have made it out. It reminded them of their house party days when they were the ones who had to start the fun when they walked in.
Abe turned back to them. "Our host is inside at the moment but he'll be back out faster than flies on camel dung."
They all chuckled amusedly at the colorful way he spoke. "Help yourselves to whatever you want. All kinds of food from the grill on the tables there. Beers, white claws and hard ciders are in the coolers." he informed them.
"How about a round of shots?" Rosita enthusiastically asked the girls.
They all looked to one another then back at her smirking with raised eyebrows.
"Dios mio! I've learned my lesson, I can no longer mix alcohols. I'm getting old." she whined and they snickered.
"So it's only tequila for me tonight." she turned back to Abe. "You do have tequila right?"
"There's still a couple of bottles at the makeshift bar. Betting tequila is one of them." he chuckled as three of them departed for said bar. They invited others to join in as they handed out shots.
"Not joining them?" he asked the last two women.
"I'll probably grab a cooler." Michonne answered.
"And I'm the designated driver." Sasha informed him.
"Darling, you aren't just beautiful you're responsible too. I like that." he smiled. "I can get you a coke, sweet tea or something else?"
Michonne muttered under her breath so only her friend could hear. "Something else, huh?"
Sasha playfully elbowed her before stepping forward. "Thanks, I'd appreciate that."
Michonne tittered while she watched her friend walk away with her new admirer. She filled her lungs with fresh air intermingled with the remnants of a sweet smoky wood briquette aroma. Lights suddenly flickered on to compensate for the darkness that crept in. She smiled at the new excitement her group's arrival had brought to the get-together that moments ago, seemed to be fading. Upbeat music would fully awaken this event so she walked towards the Bluetooth speaker that sat on a table, expecting to see a device nearby. When none could be found, she looked around wondering whose phone was connected. But her deliberations were interrupted.
"Michonne?"
The tiny hairs raised on her arms and her heartbeat picked up its pace. She stood still as though that would alleviate her wild imaginings. But she heard that honeyed voice saying her name again, this time closer and slightly louder.
"Michonne?"
There was no denying it now. He was here somehow. In this small town, she'd spontaneously come to on a whim.
She slowly turned around and instantly locked eyes with the man she'd thought of at night. Or in the mornings. Shit, anytime her concentration wasn't focused on something else, his face would flash to the forefront of her mind. But he was here in the flesh, creating that same static charge from the first meeting. It coursed through her, stimulating her lips.
"Rick."
He nervously grinned and started walking towards her. She took a shaky step forward, wanting him to know he wasn't incorrect in his advancement. Her cheeks warmed when he stopped right before her. She could see his chest heaved and he struggled with what would be an appropriate greeting after this time had passed between them.
"How…?" she managed.
"This is my house. How did you…?" he asked in a state of wonderment.
"Abraham works with my friend's brother. We're his plus ones." she motioned to her friends that tried to subtly watch but were failing miserably.
Rick gently took her hand guiding her through the sliding back door inside his house, away from their audience. Once inside, they walked beyond the sightlines of the vertical blinded doors and Rick turned to face Michonne. His hands came to her cheeks and he leaned in. His soft breathes brushed onto her slightly opened lips as he waited for permission. The lifting of her hands to pull at his t-shirt was his answer.
Michonne melted as he sucked at her lips like a man that had been lost in a desert. The wetness of her mouth seemingly quenching his thirst. His tongue gliding inside for more sating. Deliberately conveying the message of yearning and passion. She opened her eyes for a flash to make sure this was really happening. Not just her daily daydreams derailing her productive momentum. A soft whimper escaped when his hand slid down to grasp the top curve of her ass. Her hold on his shirt transformed to greedy traces of his firm sides and back.
An unexpected pitter patter erupted in the background, alerting them rain was beginning. Almost immediately squeals and yelps could be heard. Rick and Michonne half-heartedly pulled apart just in time to see guests scrambling. Some grabbed items that shouldn't get wet while others just hightailed it to the house. They snickered as people ran inside, including her girlfriends. Michonne was surprised to see Tyreese had arrived while she was preoccupied with Rick. He was assisting the other men in gathering items.
"I should probably help bring in stuff and things. Don't leave?" Rick didn't make a move, waiting for an answer to his plea.
"I'll be here." she grinned, watching relief wash over his face before he jogged out the door.
Straightaway her friends hustled over with wide eyes.
"I couldn't believe it was him." Karen exclaimed.
"You? Me." Michonne giggled still astounded herself.
"Well, you two sure picked right up from the other night." Sasha smirked.
"Not quite, they were still standing." Andrea winked knowingly and they all except for Sasha, stared at Michonne, having not been made privy to those details.
The group that continuously worked to bring in the trays of food and other items was passing by. Rick caught Michonne's eyes, contently grinning when he passed with his hands full. And her friends watched the interaction with enthusiastic faces. Once Rick disconnected to finish his task, Michonne tugged them further to the side and they eagerly followed.
"You know we danced and kissed." they nodded impatiently. "But in the VIP…I straddled him and we grinded."
"Where was I?" Rosita whisper-screamed at the news.
They all looked at Rosita like she was crazy. "The bathroom." they all stated then snickered.
Michonne shook her head in amusement when they all looked at her as though she were their hero. But the cleanup crew entered with sighs and exhales, totting what would appear to be the last necessary items. Rick pulled out his phone that's screen was lit up and muttered to his redhead friend before he answered it.
"Don't worry guys the coolers were retrieved and we can keep the party going inside." Abe announced and people shouted their appreciation while making themselves comfortable.
"Well, if we are going to do that we will need some good music." Sasha replied.
Abraham pulled out his phone. "I've got it covered little lady."
But she sauntered over and took his device, making him chuckle. "Bossy too."
Sasha looked him over slowly so he reddened even more. "I want something I can dance to." she scrolled through his phone then a smooth, sexy r&b song with tempo began to play, prompting her hips to move.
"Good gracious Ignatius." Abe mumbled.
"Hey, watch it Abe. That's my sister." Ty warned.
"That's sure as shit what I'm doing."
Anyone paying attention snorted as the pair began to dance. Karen grabbed Ty and he quickly got lost in her eyes as they stepped together. His call must've been complete because Rick walked over. That's when Michonne truly got a good look at his stride. Unobstructed by a crowd on the dance floor or her shock in a dimly lit backyard. Heat flowed to her core observing his sexy bowlegged gait. She didn't realize she bit at her lip until he stopped before them. After another smile for her, he pivoted to address Andrea.
"Uh, that was Shane on the phone. He's planning on stopping by for a plate of barbeque since his shift is almost up. Just wanted to give you a heads up is all."
"That's fine." she smiled mischievously. "Speaking of plates, we're gonna get ourselves something."
Arm in arm, Rosita and Andrea giggled as they left Michonne and Rick to themselves. He adjusted his stance drawing her attention to his cowboy boots, the same from before. And his distressed dark blue jeans were just as snug as the ones from the first time. The unexpected rainfall slightly dampened his brown t-shirt so it clung to his torso in various spots. His hair was curling a bit tighter as well, making her fingers ache to tame it. But he ran his fingers through the curls, making Michonne jealous.
"I'm a bit wet."
She nearly said 'Me too' beforeRick rotated to motion down the hall then back to her, unsure.
"I'm gonna go change. You…could come if you want."
"Uh, sure." was what she managed to say instead of shout 'Hell yes'.
He smirked almost knowingly then had her lead the way. He pointed to the correct door at the end of the corridor. They entered his bedroom that was big enough for a king size bed Michonne noted. It was plainly decorated but clean and the furniture matched. Behind her Rick didn't close the door fully, leaving it slightly open to demonstrate he didn't have any objectives.
"One sec." then he disappeared into what she assumed was his ensuite bathroom. She glanced around anxiously, not knowing quite what to do with herself until he reemerged.
The next breath she took hitched in her throat when he returned shirtless, his toned upper body exposed for her to ogle. Broad but lean was the way she'd describe his chest. His abs muscles weren't excessive but lead to sexy 'V' lines directing her eyes further down. His jeans sat low enough to entice but his belt annoyingly kept them in place. He was toweling off his hair when he walked out then he looked up, feeling her heated observation. He leisurely returned the favor from her head to her feet.
Michonne was thankful she'd dressed cute in sporty casual. Her locs were flat twisted in rows in the front but hung freely in the back. She wore a white cropped tee with blue denim shorts that hit a little higher then mid-thigh. Crisp white Adidas sneakers with a green backtab adorned her feet. But the way Rick stared at her, she would swear she wore flimsy lingerie. He tossed the towel on the chair near the bed and stalked to her.
He didn't have to wait this time as Michonne launched herself at him, taking hold of his hair while smashing their mouths together. They hungrily sucked at the others lips as the force of Rick's approach countered, slamming Michonne into the wall behind her. Hands roughly caressed at bare skin as they moaned their pleasure.
With her leg hoisted, Rick's cock thumped for freedom and fulfilment against her equally wanting slit. Creating even sweeter friction when Michonne slid her hands down his back to grab his ass. She drew him in for increased satisfying pressure and he groaned at the feel. A pass of her hands over his strong pecs informed her his nipples were just as hard as hers. Their bodies rolled together, competing against the similar motion of their tongues, whimpering from the desire to have more.
When Rick pulled away to start a trail of heated kisses down her jaw to her ear Michonne's body quivered. His hands rose up her taut stomach but remained in that overall vicinity driving her crazy. Licks and soft nips at the skin of her neck and chest slowed so her eyes squeezed shut. She wanted more but Rick was gradually disengaging and she opened her eyes to understand. Even though he ceased his exploration, his lustful eyes told a different story. A glimpse at the bulge in his pants confirmed that he restrained himself in more ways than one. She knew he saw the question in her eyes after he hesitantly gave them a little space.
"I-I don't want that to be all this is..." he motioned between the two of them and Michonne could've come apart right there. She was simultaneously ecstatic and concerned. Biting at her lip anxiously, but she listened as he went on.
"The other night… I hope you, didn't get the wrong impression of me." his eyes full of worry.
"What would make you think that?" she asked empathically.
He gestured around his place. "I'm just a guy from a small town. I don't generally go out picking up women, trying to get them to come home with me."
"Oh, you usually go to theirs so you can sneak out. Cleaner getaway." Michonne smirked, letting him off the hook so they both snorted.
"Yeah, that sounds more like Shane."
"Well, Andrea won't be having that. It'll be fun to watch." they both chuckled some more then Michonne decided to share.
"I'm usually consumed with work and I don't get out much either. I know, surprising for a city girl." she chortled. "It was just one night to be…free."
She could tell he was considered this. "Just one night? That's a shame."
He licked his kiss swollen lips and her belly somersaulted. "Wanna know what I saw?"
Michonne nervously and slowly nodded. Rick took a small step towards her causing her heart to pick back up its former pace. He didn't invade her personal space but the option was tantalizingly available. The faint scent of his cologne was now on her, enticing her back to that night. But a calming inhale allowed her to focus on his words now.
"I saw a woman that was enjoying a no doubt well-earned night of fun with her girlfriends. Reconnecting to a part of her the world isn't often privy to. She was gorgeous, sexy and confident."
Michonne smiled at his intuitiveness but was a little disappointed when he took a step back to his original placement. "Good, I just didn't want there to be any disappointment."
Rick's eyes suddenly blazed into hers. "You don't understand how much I've thought about you since that night. You being here is the complete opposite of dissatisfaction. This is everything."
Michonne's heart fluttered for multiple reasons. This attractive man was not making it easy standing there shirtless, looking good enough to eat. But she was also swept away in this sense that he was truly opening himself to her against his norm.
"I've been cursing myself for not running out after you. I didn't think I'd ever see you again." Rick paused anxiously, waiting for her response.
But Michonne was so taken by the depth of honesty and vulnerability in his confession that she simpered. "I should've given you my number before I left. I've regretted it ever since."
Rick beamed, happy to hear she'd felt the instant connection too. He reached in his back pocket then handing her his phone so they both snickered. Michonne entered her info then rang her number so she'd have his too before passing it back.
"Since we both want this to be something else…maybe we should rewind a few steps." she suggested now that her brain was clearing of the sexual haze.
Rick looked down at his bare chest and they both grinned. "I should probably put a shirt on then."
He went to his chest of drawers grabbing a white t-shirt, slipping it on. Then the whomp whomp of a police horn echoed from outside and headlights shined so Michonne could tell through the shades that it was parking out front. She glanced at the window but Rick didn't appear affected. And it drew an earlier question back to the forefront of her mind.
"Why is there a squad car in your driveway? And another one pulling up?"
"That's just Shane coming for his plate. But, I'm a cop too."
Michonne giggled and he looked puzzled. "I'm a criminal attorney."
"Wow, we might've crossed paths before."
"I've only just become a full-fledged lawyer. Stepping up from the junior league."
It was Rick's turn to chuckle. "I only just got promoted to sheriff's deputy from beat cop. Soon, I'll travel into the city for larger cases we need help with from Atlanta PD."
"So we probably would have eventually run into one another."
"Yeah, that makes this all the more real." they coyly smiled at one another before being interrupted.
"Rick! Rick!" was being shouted loudly as heavy footsteps echoed towards his bedroom door before there was a rough knock.
Rick sighed, excusing himself then went to open it fully to see Shane grinning at the threshold. His eyes moved past his friend into the room to Michonne and he smiled even brighter. "I see you found your girl."
Rick pinched the bridge of his nose. "Aren't you supposed to be picking up your food so you can leave?"
"I was but…" he leaned in to whisper loudly "…you didn't tell me about Andrea either. Brother, you are full of surprises tonight and I appreciate it because I had a shit day."
Rick shook his head unclear what his response should be other than annoyed.
"But the rain has stopped and our friends are getting ready to head out. Cabs are on the way so you need to come on out for just a minute."
Shane smiled like a smug asshole and Michonne knew Andrea would definitely give him a run for his money. She lowly snickered to herself because he didn't know what he was in for.
"Gimme a sec." Rick retorted before closing the door in his friends face. When Michonne laughed Rick joined her.
"I'm sorry about that."
"You don't have to be. You're not being a good host because of me. You should see your friends out and I should check in with mine too."
"Right." Rick nodded and took her hand to lead her out of the room. Michonne's heart sang from the ease there was between them. No hesitation on either part.
He reluctantly released her so they could take care of their tasks. He, Abe, and Shane talked with people that were heading to the front door. Meanwhile, Michonne grabbed a cold bottle of water to drink then went to her friends that chatted animatedly on the sofa.
"So?" Karen asked but they all eyed her expectantly.
"Everyone's leaving. What's the plan?" Michonne avoided the question so they sighed disappointedly.
"Ty's taking me home so Sasha doesn't have to make so many stops. I know she's tired." They all side eyed her.
"Okay, that's the reason." Andrea snickered.
"What about you?" Karen countered.
"Shane's gonna give me a ride in his cop car. So you don't have to wait for me." she devilishly grinned and they all shook their heads playfully at her shenanigans.
"Okay, what about you Michonne?"
Her face twisted awkwardly when they all stared at her again and she finished her water. "I'm- I'm riding with Sash and Ro."
They all deflated like two-day old helium balloons.
"Fine, let's get ready to head out then." Sasha stood. "Just give me a few minutes to talk with Abe."
Michonne smiled, wondering just what she missed while being consumed by her own attraction. She watched the last people exit then Abe and Sasha went to the kitchen for a bit of privacy. While Shane beckoned Andrea to the dining table to continue flirting while he ate. Michonne joined Rick in the foyer and he beamed as she approached.
"Uh, I guess we are gonna head out once Sasha and Abe…" they looked to the pair that spoke in hushed yet flirty tones.
"Are you guys safe to drive?"
"Sash and TY are the designated drivers." she leaned in to mutter. "Andrea is staying with Shane."
Rick raised his arm and pretended to chew at it and Michonne snorted out a laugh. "We'll see. They might be right enough for each other."
"Crazier things have happened." The pair gazed at each other knowing their reunion against all odds was proof of just that.
"Alright, let's tear up some asphalt!" Abe colorfully announced and the last to depart grabbed their belongings before walking to the front door. Rick thanked everyone for coming and gave hearty pats on his friend's backs. Ty shook his hand too before he and Karen headed to his car.
"Brother, I'll see you soon." Shane grinned as he slyly watched Andrea exit before following her.
"We'll give you two a minute." Sasha stated as her Rosita and Abraham headed to the vehicles, pulling the door to so the last pairing could have some solitude.
"Now that we've exchanged numbers…" Rick smirked. "…let me know when you've made it in. So I know you are home safe. I'll be up straightening all this."
Michonne looked around at the cleanup that needed to be done. "It's not too bad. But I'll definitely let you know when I'm in."
"You will?" he locked his blue eyes on her brown ones both full of anticipation.
"I will." she promised coquettishly.
They stood there silently for a moment unsure what to say that would be lasting until they saw each other again. Rick took her hand in his and gently rubbed his thumb over her skin.
"I hated having to watch you leave."
Michonne's knees weakened. "I like that."
"You liked that?" Rick questioned slightly confused.
She whispered. "I liked that you hated it."
Rick's eyes glazed over with longing as he stepped towards her. Michonne backed up until he pressed her body into the wall.
He whispered at her ear. "I'm gonna hate it when you leave tonight." he placed a kiss on her neck making her moan.
"Rick."
"I think I will hate it anytime we have to part."
His wet tongue slicked up her skin for another taste and she trembled.
"You know I really want you to stay. You know that, right?"
Wavering kicked up several notches when he nipped at her earlobe, making her question her previous decision to take things slow.
"You are not making this easy." she groaned while fighting to keep her hands at her sides.
"Neither are you." Rick said before he tipped her chin up.
They panted, trying to restrain themselves with a small gap between their vibrating bodies. Deciding a parting kiss would have to suffice, they leaned in. An unhurried lip lock proved trouble when Michonne swiftly took hold of the curls at the nape of his neck. His hiss filled her mouth making her want to hear it again. When she bit at his full bottom lip, she was rewarded with the sound once more. His eyes revealing his resolve was being tested to a degree he didn't know if he could resist.
His firm hands maneuvered around to knead her ass as they continued to kiss. Her whimper reciprocated compensation for her previous actions. Michonne knew they were nearing the point of no return so she slipped her hands regretfully to his chest. Lightly pushing to create some much needed distance.
"I have to go. They are waiting on me." she barely made out.
"Okay." Rick acquiesced after a deep exhale then stepped back to give them some breathing room.
He eventually took hold of the doorknob slowly opening the front door. Michonne painstakingly peeled herself off the wall. Her first step shaky from lack of conviction but Rick took her hand in his. He escorted her down the solar power lit pathway to the passenger door of Sasha's car. She stood in front of him, placing a hand on his chest and they locked eyes. Gleeful for finding one another again but dejected that they had to separate so quickly.
"Don't forget to let me know when you make it in."
"I will."
A series of quick pecks made the decision to part even harder but she released him and he opened the door for her. She slid inside and he carefully closed the room for her to then roll the window all the way down. Rick bent down to lean in.
"Get home safe ladies."
They all thanked him before he quickly stole one last kiss. "Goodnight Michonne."
"Goodnight Rick."
He patted the window frame and uncertainly stepped away. The cars ahead began to depart and Michonne waved at him as Sasha slowly pulled off. The side mirror allowing her to watch Rick stand in the middle of the road, becoming smaller and smaller. They made a turn and his reflection was gone.
A/N~~*** Plastic off the sofa gave me grown and sexy kickback vibes. Just a few good friends inviting select company to one persons house. Relaxing with drinks, maybe some smoke, dimmed lights and low sexy music. A chill night and I wanted to incorporate that into a second chance meeting with our faves. Listening to Plastic off the Sofa by Beyoncé might connect you to the atmosphere I was imagining, if you like.
Oh, some of you already know and have made purchases, followed and wrote reviews (Thank you so much *muah*) I launched my homemade candle shop Key To Joi on etsy. And of course I had to create a Richonne pairing with scents that work separately but can be burned together for a unique experience. Rick and Michonne alone are incredible but together they are fire. In case link doesn't work here just search Richonne on the site and the candles should come up on page one. Please check out my shop and more selections will be coming for the fall/winter, Thx! shop/KeytoJoi?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1204407976
Also the last chapter is nearly complete then the ending of It's About Time will be next. Working on two other stories also but I have to pace myself *wipes forehead* lol So many Richonne ideas are popping in my head. Thanks as always to all my faithful readers and friends! Guest reviewers I see you and glad you are here too! Here's to us having Kept Richonne Alive!