*~* SqUiRe KeLaDrY; mOtHeR? *~*
*A/N: let me just clear this up now, because I'm sure there will be some comments on it...yes, I know Kel is extremely...what? moody, and mood swing-y? I meant it that way... blame it on the hormons...hers or mine, who's to say? but I still like this chpter, and I hope you will too.
^-^ enjoy! LDoQ
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
`+¤ Tight Clothes and Tight Throats +¤`
Kel's day was long, almost unbearably so. Since their arrival, Kel had scarcely left Lord Raoul's side. If she wasn't there for show, she was serving dutifully, pouring water and fruit juice for the men of the Own, giving her objective opinion when required or asked, or running quiet errands for not only Raoul, but also anyone else that asked. The formal discussions had gone long into the early evening without pause. Slowly the men and one woman,(besides Kel)(Alanna wouldn't let her presence go unnoticed) tired. Eventually the talking wound down, however slowly, and things were settled for the evening. The large group was dismissed.
The security for the Tortall/ Scanra gathering was immense. No one unauthorized got in and once one was in, there was absolutely no leaving until 'something' definite was settled between the realms. The small city was enclosed in tall guarded walls. Among the long wooden 'discussion building' were scattered several small latrines, a few good sized mess tents and in the center of the ordered layout were four large spacious inns. The first one was the Purple Trinity then came Morning Light, Sky Fire, and Something Blue, in that order. Kel couldn't help but wonder who, and what kind of demented mind had come up with those names. (a/n: me! Me it was me I admit it and I like them so there ^_^)
Kel got the disturbing feeling that this was no simple, random city. The location, security, and precise set up of everything within the guarded walls was perfect. Too perfect. From the outside, and from a distance, the city might look innocent and normal. But inside there was strict security and prison like rules with simple but still lavish accommodations. It gave Kel an ill at ease tense feeling. She chose to ignore that for now. Kel was too tired to ponder anything deeper than her waiting bed. A warm inviting bed in the closest inn, the Purple Trinity.
She drug her heavy feet ignoring all that was going on around her. Kel made a special note to disregard the boisterous chatter that surrounded her. Instead of being tired from the days events, most of the men were wound up and full of suppressed energy. Kel thought they were acting childish, very immature indeed. She wished with all her heart that she could share in that feeling. The large group slowly dispersed, heading to their rooms in one of the various pub/inns. Kel surveyed her surroundings carefully as she the Purple Trinity Inn. She glanced at, but thought no more about the loud group of men invading the front of the commodious inn.
Kel headed lethargically up the stairs trying desperately to remember where her doom was. She knew Raoul's room was adjacent to her own on the right side and Neal's was on the left. Further down from Neal was, of course, his knight master Alanna; and Dom's chamber was on Raoul's other side. Kel knew that much, but beyond that she was unsure. As she reached the head of the long staircase, Kel turned into the large hallway. Luck was on her side, for the first time, it seemed in ages. The corridor was lined with many closed wooden doors, but as she entered the hallway, Kel spotted Neal. He was facing his door and didn't see Kel as he unlocked the door and entered his chamber. Kel smiled as she walked down the corridor. At least she knew where he room was now, and she wouldn't have to walk around aimlessly.
Kel fumbled in her breeches pocket and pulled out a scratched silver key. Kel hadn't noticed the scratches before. As she studied the cool piece of metal in her hand, she realized her stupidity. Engraved on the small key was a number. A number that matched the one hanging from the door in front of her. Shaking her head in shame, Kel unlocked and entered her room. She threw herself onto the soft bed with a deep grateful sigh. Kel sat, well laid actually, in utter silence. As she listened she heard a dull roar coming from the floor below. Kel's thoughts drifted as they had so often lately, toward a dark haired, startling blue eyed Sargent. Dom (a/n: who else? And you thought bigfoot?) Kel was finding it difficult enough to keep her thoughts from roaming his direction under normal circumstances, but after the events of this morning it was all but impossible. Distantly she heard the approaching footsteps in the hall. Then came the faint but distinct clinking of metal on metal. Then ths soft slam of a door meeting its frame resounded through the hall. Kel's heart leapt, jumping to conclusions. *Maybe it was-* she couldn't finish for fear of jinxing something that was a - *a foolish hope!* Kel told herself sternly.
Itching for confrontation, Kel pried her tired and protesting body from its comfort. She forced herself to walk across her present home and enter the small room contained within her chamber. Once inside the bathroom, Kel took the white porcelain water pitcher in her hands. She studied the fine workmanship in the delicate porcelain, but noted, in mild dislike, that pink rosebuds obscured the stark porcelain. Kel poured some of the pitcher's contents into the matching basin that sat placidly on the wooden counter. She plunged her hands into the room temperature water and splashed her face repeatedly, hoping this would give her some form of energy.
Kel felt refreshed if not more energetic. She pulled her tunic over her head and shockingly used the garment to dry her wet face and hands. Stripping away her sweaty formal wear, Kel donned some loose tan breeches and a billowy cotton white shirt. She felt no need to bother with shoes, and pattered out into the hall in her bare feet. She enjoyed the strict cold wood beneath her feet. It was comforting, and it kept her grounded, so she remained focused on the task at hand. The cold, splintery wooden floor was soothing and somehow reassuring to Kel as she walked the few quick, too quick in her book, paces two door over. After a few calming deep breaths, Kel raised her hand and knocked purposefully. She unconsciously held her breath as she waited tensely for a reply.
~*`^_^`*~
As the large group was dismissed to settle into their rooms before negotiations began, Dom separated himself from the crowd. The tall Sargent approached the Purple Trinity Inn's desolate counter.
A buxom blond came forward from the back when she saw Dom waiting. "What can I do for you?" She asked with a flirty wink. Her voice was low, soft, and suggestive. Dom was somewhat taken aback. Then she saw his Tortallan Sargent's badge and clothing and added more formally. "Sir."
"I'm Sargent Domitan of Masbolle," Dom managed to introduce himself without sounding stuffy. Then in a no-nonsense, but still easygoing and friendly manner, Dom explained where he would be that day. A little skeptically he gave her his room number and asked. "Might I get a warm bath in my room for when the discussions end for the night?" He waited.
"Certainly," the shapely blond assured. "I'll make sure its done." She assured. "What time?"
Uncertainly Dom replied. "We should be done by seven. Eight at the latest."
"Well I'll keep an eye out for you." She smiled. "Will there be anything else?" The blond asked again. This time she leaned forward, just enough to give Dom an eye full of cleavage, and straightened up.
Dom felt his face flush. "No." He said firmly. "That will be it." She seemed disappointed (at not getting the opportunity to get in his pants) but consented, and assured the job would be done anyway.
It was ten minutes after eight when the meeting adjourned and everyone was dismissed for the night. Instructions for the next day were given and the group disbanded. Avoiding Kel at all cost, Dom took the long way back to the Purple Trinity, escaping people all together. He entered his room and was pleased to find a full tub waiting. Dom shed his clothing and slowly lowered himself into the waiting bath. *Minthros! I distinctly remember asking for a 'warm' bath. This is anything but!* He mused under the cool water.
And then there was a knock. Dom grumbled inwardly. Not only did he have a 'cold' bath; he had a cold 'interrupted' bath.
"Give me a bloody second!" He called. Dom pulled himself from the chilly water without regret. He riffled through his things and retrieved a clean loincloth and a pair of breeches. Dom pulled the clothing on, hoping in some way it would warm his shivering body. The cloth clug tightly to his still wet, muscular body. Dom pulled open the door open and instantly regretted not drying off and not grabbing a shirt.
"Uh-" he faltered feeling exposed. "What can I do for you?" He asked all business.
Kel noted Dom's dripping, half nude body with a giddy feeling in the pit of her stomach. "Yeah- uh...yeah," then she remembered why she was there; but the time didn't seem right. "I interrupted your bath," she observed. "I'll go."
"It was cold." Dom replied hastily. He didn't want to talk, but in contrast, not wanting her to leave.
Kel had already turned to head back to her room when he spoke. "Pardon?" She asked confused.
"My bath." He answered. "It was cold." Dom sighed. "I suppose you wanted to talk?" He asked trying to keep the hope out of his voice.
"Not if you're busy. Not if you don't want to be bothered. Not if you don't want to." Kel took a deep breath. "Not if you hate me."
"I don't...I couldn't ever- hate you..." Dom said softly so it was barley audible. Then he remembered why he was so torn, and what he had witnessed earlier that morning. "Come in and close the door." Dom instructed as he entered to room. "Let me just get a shirt on." His tone was bitter. "I'm sure my bare chest doesn't 'do it' for you like Nealan's undoubtably does." It seemed the bitter tone had no intention of leaving.
"Do what for me?" Kel asked trying to remain calm and not get upset.
Dom couldn't stop the chuckle that came from his lips. Her comment only made him remember how young she was. Seventeen versus his twenty-one. "If you have to ask, you don't need to know."
"Tell me." Kel demanded, keeping her smile hidden.
Dom sighed heavily. "I don't think you're old enough to hear what I might have to say."
Kel scoffed. Her scoff turned to a laugh. Dom was puzzled. "Trust me. I wish I 'wasn't' old enough." Kel abruptly shifted gears. "Dom, you'll never know." Kel told.
"Know what?" He asked uncertain.
*What you're bare chest does for me. What a start it gives me to see you're tanned chest against the stark white of you unbuttoned shirt. What- * Kel cut herself off, and it was a good thing too. She finally answered aloud with the G-rated version of course. "Nothing. So what about this morning?"
"Later. You can't just say 'nothing' after a comment like that and expect me to let it go." Dom answered.
"I do expect you to let it go." Kel stated firmly. Kel sighed. "Dom... I can't get into that now, lets settle this morning first."
Dom relented. He didn't like to cause Kel anymore stress then he had to. "What about this morning?"
"Well, let's see...I wonder." Kel said sarcastically.
She had more to say, but Dom cut her off. "If you're going to be an ass about it, you can just leave." He was going to let it go at that, but didn't. "And you can come back when you're more properly dressed."
"What's wrong with the way I'm dressed?" Kel demanded.
"Your shirt. It's see through."
"It is not." Kel defended.
"It is. I can see you're breastband. It's white."
"Is not. And that was an easy guess. What other color would it be?"
Dom shrugged choosing not to answer.
"If it is see through why the hell are you looking?"
"What?" Dom asked like he had just been accused of murder. "Who the hell stuck a stick up your ass?"
"You did. And if you're going to criticize the way I dress, we should criticize you too."
Dom shook his head in frustration. "I haven't been anywhere near your ass." He defended not caring to discuss his clothing.
"Too bad." Kel muttered.
Dom shook his head in confusion. He decided his hearing must be going. "What?"
"Whose fault is that?" She asked a little louder.
"What?" Dom repeated still at a loss.
Kel changed her mind about the bold coments. "I never said that." She finished.
"Said what?"
"That you were near my ass."
They sat there in silence for a moment neither of them dared look at the other.
Kel broke the silence. "Dom don't be thick."
"Hey!" But before he could respond further.
"You were. And so was I. So let's just both cut the crap. I know this morning's events are bothering you just as much as they are me. So let's start where we ended off and take it from there."
There was something about a woman that took charge that really turned Dom on, so he agreed to get things between them resolved.
"Where did we end off?" He asked as he led her further into the room. "Sit." He indicated the bed. Kel sat reluctantly, and Dom perched beside her turning so they were facing.
"I believe," Kel started, though she knew full well. "That your last words were-"But most of all"- most of all what?" She asked patiently.
"I don't remember." Dom lied.
"Liar." Kel tried to call his bluff. It worked.
"Most of all I regret what I saw at the pond and-" he broke off knowing full well how much it would frustrate Kel.
"And-?" She pushed.
"And I regret what I feel." He mumbled, but added louder and more clearly. "Are you happy know?"
"No. Never regret what you feel." Kel said, although she herself felt like a hypocrite for saying it. She put her hand on his knee in what she hoped was a friendly reassuring gesture. Dom visibly tensed. But that had no effect on the location of Kel's hand.
"What exactly did you hear down at the pond?" She asked feeling Dom stiffen. Unconsciously she rubbed slow circles on his inner thigh by his knee.
"Nothing."
"Tell me." She pleaded sternly.
"I didn't 'hear' anything. It's what I saw that I didn't like. I
left. Neal come out of the water and gathered you in his bare arms." Dom spat. "Then I left."
"Thank God." Kel murmured.
"I'm glad my torture can bring you some relief." Dom replied bitterly.
"Torture?" Kel asked with a smile that couldn't be withheld.
"Yeah. Kinda like what you're doing know." He moved her hand and placed it in her own lap.
"Dom, I'm sorry too." Kel confided.
"For what?"
"For what you saw. Neal, he's just a friend. And just ask him. He was goofing off. And he brought me clothes because I was a dunce that forgot to bring them myself. Not because he's a loincloth molester." Kel paused, her brows knitted together. "That I know of." She added with a mischievous grin and a more or less forced laugh.
"Undergarment fondler." Dom inserted. "But that doesn't explain why- "
Kel finished his sentence for him. "Why we were so close?" She supplied.
Dom nodded stiffly.
"That was Neal's doing. He knows too much." Kel said vaguely. "He had to get close enough so he could examine me, with his gift, without my knowing." She said choppily. "You see I didn't know what he was doing or even why."
"Why did Meathead need to examine you?" Asked Dom.
Kel bit her lip nervously. Fortunately thinking quickly had always been her strong suit. She wanted to tell Dom the truth. Really she did; she would like nothing more. But this was like most thing between her and Dom. She wanted to tell him things. She wanted to do things to him, and with him; but she just couldn't. "Remember before we left, you came into my room and I was really sick?"
He nodded giving her courage to go on. "Food poisoning?" He supplied, although he was still skeptical on the topic. But slowly his anger was fading to concern.
"Yeah..." Kel felt extremely guilty, but at this point she didn't know what else to do. "Well, I guess I had something worse. A virus of some type. But I'm getting better." She added hurriedly.
It was Dom's turn to put his hand comfortingly on Kel's knee and make 'her' stiffen.
"So what did Neal find?" Dom questioned.
"When? Oh." Kel remembered her lie (sort of) slowly. "Like I said. He told me I was getting better. I know I'll make it through." Kel sighed heavily as if she wanted to say more, but she didn't. Dom shifted his position slightly, trying to stretch. The movement caused his hand to travel slowly and slightly up Kel's leg. She shivered, but didn't do anything to stop him. Dom didn't seem to notice the new position of his hand.
"Maybe you should change clothes." Kel suggested her voice only cracking slightly.
"Why?"
"'Cause those one's are wet... from your bath...and they're... and they're smothering your body." Kel stammered.
"What does that mean?" He asked unsure.
"It means that I'm envious of that cloth." Kel murmured.
"Huh?" Dom managed still at a loss.
*It means that your clothes are hugging your contours in ways only I want to be able to.* Kel thought. As soon as the thought entered her head she was upset with herself for thinking it. *I'm seventeen what kind of sick seventeen-year-old has these kinds of thoughts?* Kel wondered. "It means I can see everything." She answered suggestively.
"Deal with it." Dom said lightly. "I know the feeling."
"What?"
"If I were you-"
Kel cut him off. "You're not." She said firmly. "You'll never know what it's like to be me." She snapped.
"You're right." Dom bit back. "I can't even try to sympathize with you. You wont even let me try to get in your heart."
"Bullshit!" Kel yelled. "Now what were you saying before all this crap?" She asked.
Dom began softly. "If I were you I wouldn't wear that top again. Especially in front of the Own."
"Why?" Kel demanded.
"We went through this before." Dom grumbled. "It's see through."
"Really?" She asked pleasantly. Kel shifted gears going from bitter to teasing in an instant. "You like it don't you?"
"Yeah. I love it, as much as you like my wet cloths on me." Dom said, unsure of Kel's sudden change of heart.
"That much, huh?" She acted surprised. "That's quite a bit." She leaned forward to put her hand on his left knee. He stiffened slightly. They were quiet for a moment. Then two and three... but it was a comfortable, calm silence.
The pair might have sat this way the entire night if not for interruption. The thick wooden door rattled lightly as someone knocked. Kel and Dom jumped apart of if they had been doing something very wrong. Dom blushed knowing that to an outsider their situation wouldn't look appropriate. Dom stood, wiped his sweaty palms on his slowly drying, yet still damp, breeches and approached the door.
A/N: You like, you hate, you could give a rat's- yeah- less? Just let me know, I'm a big girl, I can take it... I hope.
Here's the thank yous...( come on people 20? you can do better than that! lets go for at least twenty-five this time! reviews are addicting... the more you get the more you want... so dish!)
*Aimee Damita: YAY! That was my favorite part too, although I could never do that to Neal.. I need him too much ^-^ Interesting, I've never had anyone fling themselves at me before... except James, but that's different...
*AJ 4EVA*: Thanks, I hope this was soon enough, school has got me swamped.
*Angel4eva3*: You're trying to get me in an acident aren't you... wrting and driving at the same time? sounds dangerous...but i have no car so no worries there... sorry for the lateness
*Angel of Wind*: is that sarcasm i detect? using my own tools against me? How rude! jk Yeah, I e-mailed you back, so there... did you like my story idears?
*Annoying-Angel18*: Thank you! Man! your review alone was enough to keep me going. talk about a warm fuzzy feeling! I hope you continue reading, liking, and reviewing...wait, what do you mean maybe? OF COURSE Kel and Dom are meant for each other (neal's my self claimed territory)
*bubblegum*girl*: HEY EVERYBODY! did you hear that? bubblegum*girl added me to her favorites! thanks chica... keep on keeping on
*Charlotte Bell*: thanks, i'm glad you like it... are you offering to be my editor? cuz I'm just to lazy to do it myself
*daftpunk*: thanks! that is so sweet of you! I loved how you made up your own words (suckith) I wasn't even trying to write a 'chessy soap opera' imagine what i could do if i TRIED just be warned. thanks for the 'flame' what else don't you like? And are you anonymous b-cuz you don't have an account (they're easy and free...) or because you were afraid of me? Jk I blame the pain medication...and my never-ending supply of sarcasm
*dragon defender*: I'm seriously blushing here. thanks, jealous make me pleased for some reason. even if you did scold me for my late update. oh well, i derseved it and someone had to do it thanks, i think...
*Dragonlass11*: Thank you. i hope you weren't disappointed in anyway by this update
*egurlrox*: short, sweet and to the point, I like it. I hope you like this chappie.
*FlamingKnight*: yay! I'm so proud of you. Thank you for everything...
*jazy716*: Life is full of problems... but kel and dom are working on theirs... slowly, what do you think...?
*Lara Roberts*: Thank you just ever so much! I'm glad you liked it. I always try to stick funny bits in there, and i love it when people mention how much they like them ^-^
*protector of the small*: thanks, I think, think is the key word here, I will... unless some road block comes up
*PsychoLioness13*: thankies thankies...(sorry i'm a littled doped up right now, i had my wisdom teeth pulled thursday)
*queenofdiamonds1*: NEAL'S mine, just ask angel of wind... hehe sorry still dopy
*Sabrina11*: why? It's fun to make people all miserable and angsty, then they're twice as happy when things go right? oh okay, dom and kel are working on it... happy now? :)
*sorrel rowan*: thanks, I was worried that you were going to flame me for a minute. can I ask why you didn't like the beginning? Just so I can improve on futre writings? To be completely honest I didn't like my start either, but that's cuz it seemed forced/ rushed to me, what did you think?
*sw33t t3mptations*: ha, your pen name's cool. I like it. I'm glad you like my story and I hope you continue to review, I makes me feel awesome! thanks!
*TPfreak*: yea! yea! yea! funfunfun! FINALLY! no one else said anything abour Neal and his odd infatuation, I was hoping someone would. you just SO made my day! THANK YOU! Yea, this was written, but nothing else is. Hopefully i'll get time to write, I haven't yet... when they say honors english they mean it. Since school started, it's been nothing but non-stop homework... but I'll MAKE time to write, just for you ^-^
-- sorry if i forgot someone...but i'm so out of it, I got to stay home today and yesterday cuz i had me wisdom teeth pulled, very painful, but morphine's great!
-- so hey! What do you guys(guys meaning gals, cause I don't know if there are any guys out there, and if there are, please let me know!) think, what should happen to kel and dom next? should things contune at their present pace, or speed up? What should they say? it's up to you! Because I've lost my mind... and more! -- LDoQ
~ Lady Daffodil of Queenscove (_x_)
*A/N: let me just clear this up now, because I'm sure there will be some comments on it...yes, I know Kel is extremely...what? moody, and mood swing-y? I meant it that way... blame it on the hormons...hers or mine, who's to say? but I still like this chpter, and I hope you will too.
^-^ enjoy! LDoQ
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
`+¤ Tight Clothes and Tight Throats +¤`
Kel's day was long, almost unbearably so. Since their arrival, Kel had scarcely left Lord Raoul's side. If she wasn't there for show, she was serving dutifully, pouring water and fruit juice for the men of the Own, giving her objective opinion when required or asked, or running quiet errands for not only Raoul, but also anyone else that asked. The formal discussions had gone long into the early evening without pause. Slowly the men and one woman,(besides Kel)(Alanna wouldn't let her presence go unnoticed) tired. Eventually the talking wound down, however slowly, and things were settled for the evening. The large group was dismissed.
The security for the Tortall/ Scanra gathering was immense. No one unauthorized got in and once one was in, there was absolutely no leaving until 'something' definite was settled between the realms. The small city was enclosed in tall guarded walls. Among the long wooden 'discussion building' were scattered several small latrines, a few good sized mess tents and in the center of the ordered layout were four large spacious inns. The first one was the Purple Trinity then came Morning Light, Sky Fire, and Something Blue, in that order. Kel couldn't help but wonder who, and what kind of demented mind had come up with those names. (a/n: me! Me it was me I admit it and I like them so there ^_^)
Kel got the disturbing feeling that this was no simple, random city. The location, security, and precise set up of everything within the guarded walls was perfect. Too perfect. From the outside, and from a distance, the city might look innocent and normal. But inside there was strict security and prison like rules with simple but still lavish accommodations. It gave Kel an ill at ease tense feeling. She chose to ignore that for now. Kel was too tired to ponder anything deeper than her waiting bed. A warm inviting bed in the closest inn, the Purple Trinity.
She drug her heavy feet ignoring all that was going on around her. Kel made a special note to disregard the boisterous chatter that surrounded her. Instead of being tired from the days events, most of the men were wound up and full of suppressed energy. Kel thought they were acting childish, very immature indeed. She wished with all her heart that she could share in that feeling. The large group slowly dispersed, heading to their rooms in one of the various pub/inns. Kel surveyed her surroundings carefully as she the Purple Trinity Inn. She glanced at, but thought no more about the loud group of men invading the front of the commodious inn.
Kel headed lethargically up the stairs trying desperately to remember where her doom was. She knew Raoul's room was adjacent to her own on the right side and Neal's was on the left. Further down from Neal was, of course, his knight master Alanna; and Dom's chamber was on Raoul's other side. Kel knew that much, but beyond that she was unsure. As she reached the head of the long staircase, Kel turned into the large hallway. Luck was on her side, for the first time, it seemed in ages. The corridor was lined with many closed wooden doors, but as she entered the hallway, Kel spotted Neal. He was facing his door and didn't see Kel as he unlocked the door and entered his chamber. Kel smiled as she walked down the corridor. At least she knew where he room was now, and she wouldn't have to walk around aimlessly.
Kel fumbled in her breeches pocket and pulled out a scratched silver key. Kel hadn't noticed the scratches before. As she studied the cool piece of metal in her hand, she realized her stupidity. Engraved on the small key was a number. A number that matched the one hanging from the door in front of her. Shaking her head in shame, Kel unlocked and entered her room. She threw herself onto the soft bed with a deep grateful sigh. Kel sat, well laid actually, in utter silence. As she listened she heard a dull roar coming from the floor below. Kel's thoughts drifted as they had so often lately, toward a dark haired, startling blue eyed Sargent. Dom (a/n: who else? And you thought bigfoot?) Kel was finding it difficult enough to keep her thoughts from roaming his direction under normal circumstances, but after the events of this morning it was all but impossible. Distantly she heard the approaching footsteps in the hall. Then came the faint but distinct clinking of metal on metal. Then ths soft slam of a door meeting its frame resounded through the hall. Kel's heart leapt, jumping to conclusions. *Maybe it was-* she couldn't finish for fear of jinxing something that was a - *a foolish hope!* Kel told herself sternly.
Itching for confrontation, Kel pried her tired and protesting body from its comfort. She forced herself to walk across her present home and enter the small room contained within her chamber. Once inside the bathroom, Kel took the white porcelain water pitcher in her hands. She studied the fine workmanship in the delicate porcelain, but noted, in mild dislike, that pink rosebuds obscured the stark porcelain. Kel poured some of the pitcher's contents into the matching basin that sat placidly on the wooden counter. She plunged her hands into the room temperature water and splashed her face repeatedly, hoping this would give her some form of energy.
Kel felt refreshed if not more energetic. She pulled her tunic over her head and shockingly used the garment to dry her wet face and hands. Stripping away her sweaty formal wear, Kel donned some loose tan breeches and a billowy cotton white shirt. She felt no need to bother with shoes, and pattered out into the hall in her bare feet. She enjoyed the strict cold wood beneath her feet. It was comforting, and it kept her grounded, so she remained focused on the task at hand. The cold, splintery wooden floor was soothing and somehow reassuring to Kel as she walked the few quick, too quick in her book, paces two door over. After a few calming deep breaths, Kel raised her hand and knocked purposefully. She unconsciously held her breath as she waited tensely for a reply.
~*`^_^`*~
As the large group was dismissed to settle into their rooms before negotiations began, Dom separated himself from the crowd. The tall Sargent approached the Purple Trinity Inn's desolate counter.
A buxom blond came forward from the back when she saw Dom waiting. "What can I do for you?" She asked with a flirty wink. Her voice was low, soft, and suggestive. Dom was somewhat taken aback. Then she saw his Tortallan Sargent's badge and clothing and added more formally. "Sir."
"I'm Sargent Domitan of Masbolle," Dom managed to introduce himself without sounding stuffy. Then in a no-nonsense, but still easygoing and friendly manner, Dom explained where he would be that day. A little skeptically he gave her his room number and asked. "Might I get a warm bath in my room for when the discussions end for the night?" He waited.
"Certainly," the shapely blond assured. "I'll make sure its done." She assured. "What time?"
Uncertainly Dom replied. "We should be done by seven. Eight at the latest."
"Well I'll keep an eye out for you." She smiled. "Will there be anything else?" The blond asked again. This time she leaned forward, just enough to give Dom an eye full of cleavage, and straightened up.
Dom felt his face flush. "No." He said firmly. "That will be it." She seemed disappointed (at not getting the opportunity to get in his pants) but consented, and assured the job would be done anyway.
It was ten minutes after eight when the meeting adjourned and everyone was dismissed for the night. Instructions for the next day were given and the group disbanded. Avoiding Kel at all cost, Dom took the long way back to the Purple Trinity, escaping people all together. He entered his room and was pleased to find a full tub waiting. Dom shed his clothing and slowly lowered himself into the waiting bath. *Minthros! I distinctly remember asking for a 'warm' bath. This is anything but!* He mused under the cool water.
And then there was a knock. Dom grumbled inwardly. Not only did he have a 'cold' bath; he had a cold 'interrupted' bath.
"Give me a bloody second!" He called. Dom pulled himself from the chilly water without regret. He riffled through his things and retrieved a clean loincloth and a pair of breeches. Dom pulled the clothing on, hoping in some way it would warm his shivering body. The cloth clug tightly to his still wet, muscular body. Dom pulled open the door open and instantly regretted not drying off and not grabbing a shirt.
"Uh-" he faltered feeling exposed. "What can I do for you?" He asked all business.
Kel noted Dom's dripping, half nude body with a giddy feeling in the pit of her stomach. "Yeah- uh...yeah," then she remembered why she was there; but the time didn't seem right. "I interrupted your bath," she observed. "I'll go."
"It was cold." Dom replied hastily. He didn't want to talk, but in contrast, not wanting her to leave.
Kel had already turned to head back to her room when he spoke. "Pardon?" She asked confused.
"My bath." He answered. "It was cold." Dom sighed. "I suppose you wanted to talk?" He asked trying to keep the hope out of his voice.
"Not if you're busy. Not if you don't want to be bothered. Not if you don't want to." Kel took a deep breath. "Not if you hate me."
"I don't...I couldn't ever- hate you..." Dom said softly so it was barley audible. Then he remembered why he was so torn, and what he had witnessed earlier that morning. "Come in and close the door." Dom instructed as he entered to room. "Let me just get a shirt on." His tone was bitter. "I'm sure my bare chest doesn't 'do it' for you like Nealan's undoubtably does." It seemed the bitter tone had no intention of leaving.
"Do what for me?" Kel asked trying to remain calm and not get upset.
Dom couldn't stop the chuckle that came from his lips. Her comment only made him remember how young she was. Seventeen versus his twenty-one. "If you have to ask, you don't need to know."
"Tell me." Kel demanded, keeping her smile hidden.
Dom sighed heavily. "I don't think you're old enough to hear what I might have to say."
Kel scoffed. Her scoff turned to a laugh. Dom was puzzled. "Trust me. I wish I 'wasn't' old enough." Kel abruptly shifted gears. "Dom, you'll never know." Kel told.
"Know what?" He asked uncertain.
*What you're bare chest does for me. What a start it gives me to see you're tanned chest against the stark white of you unbuttoned shirt. What- * Kel cut herself off, and it was a good thing too. She finally answered aloud with the G-rated version of course. "Nothing. So what about this morning?"
"Later. You can't just say 'nothing' after a comment like that and expect me to let it go." Dom answered.
"I do expect you to let it go." Kel stated firmly. Kel sighed. "Dom... I can't get into that now, lets settle this morning first."
Dom relented. He didn't like to cause Kel anymore stress then he had to. "What about this morning?"
"Well, let's see...I wonder." Kel said sarcastically.
She had more to say, but Dom cut her off. "If you're going to be an ass about it, you can just leave." He was going to let it go at that, but didn't. "And you can come back when you're more properly dressed."
"What's wrong with the way I'm dressed?" Kel demanded.
"Your shirt. It's see through."
"It is not." Kel defended.
"It is. I can see you're breastband. It's white."
"Is not. And that was an easy guess. What other color would it be?"
Dom shrugged choosing not to answer.
"If it is see through why the hell are you looking?"
"What?" Dom asked like he had just been accused of murder. "Who the hell stuck a stick up your ass?"
"You did. And if you're going to criticize the way I dress, we should criticize you too."
Dom shook his head in frustration. "I haven't been anywhere near your ass." He defended not caring to discuss his clothing.
"Too bad." Kel muttered.
Dom shook his head in confusion. He decided his hearing must be going. "What?"
"Whose fault is that?" She asked a little louder.
"What?" Dom repeated still at a loss.
Kel changed her mind about the bold coments. "I never said that." She finished.
"Said what?"
"That you were near my ass."
They sat there in silence for a moment neither of them dared look at the other.
Kel broke the silence. "Dom don't be thick."
"Hey!" But before he could respond further.
"You were. And so was I. So let's just both cut the crap. I know this morning's events are bothering you just as much as they are me. So let's start where we ended off and take it from there."
There was something about a woman that took charge that really turned Dom on, so he agreed to get things between them resolved.
"Where did we end off?" He asked as he led her further into the room. "Sit." He indicated the bed. Kel sat reluctantly, and Dom perched beside her turning so they were facing.
"I believe," Kel started, though she knew full well. "That your last words were-"But most of all"- most of all what?" She asked patiently.
"I don't remember." Dom lied.
"Liar." Kel tried to call his bluff. It worked.
"Most of all I regret what I saw at the pond and-" he broke off knowing full well how much it would frustrate Kel.
"And-?" She pushed.
"And I regret what I feel." He mumbled, but added louder and more clearly. "Are you happy know?"
"No. Never regret what you feel." Kel said, although she herself felt like a hypocrite for saying it. She put her hand on his knee in what she hoped was a friendly reassuring gesture. Dom visibly tensed. But that had no effect on the location of Kel's hand.
"What exactly did you hear down at the pond?" She asked feeling Dom stiffen. Unconsciously she rubbed slow circles on his inner thigh by his knee.
"Nothing."
"Tell me." She pleaded sternly.
"I didn't 'hear' anything. It's what I saw that I didn't like. I
left. Neal come out of the water and gathered you in his bare arms." Dom spat. "Then I left."
"Thank God." Kel murmured.
"I'm glad my torture can bring you some relief." Dom replied bitterly.
"Torture?" Kel asked with a smile that couldn't be withheld.
"Yeah. Kinda like what you're doing know." He moved her hand and placed it in her own lap.
"Dom, I'm sorry too." Kel confided.
"For what?"
"For what you saw. Neal, he's just a friend. And just ask him. He was goofing off. And he brought me clothes because I was a dunce that forgot to bring them myself. Not because he's a loincloth molester." Kel paused, her brows knitted together. "That I know of." She added with a mischievous grin and a more or less forced laugh.
"Undergarment fondler." Dom inserted. "But that doesn't explain why- "
Kel finished his sentence for him. "Why we were so close?" She supplied.
Dom nodded stiffly.
"That was Neal's doing. He knows too much." Kel said vaguely. "He had to get close enough so he could examine me, with his gift, without my knowing." She said choppily. "You see I didn't know what he was doing or even why."
"Why did Meathead need to examine you?" Asked Dom.
Kel bit her lip nervously. Fortunately thinking quickly had always been her strong suit. She wanted to tell Dom the truth. Really she did; she would like nothing more. But this was like most thing between her and Dom. She wanted to tell him things. She wanted to do things to him, and with him; but she just couldn't. "Remember before we left, you came into my room and I was really sick?"
He nodded giving her courage to go on. "Food poisoning?" He supplied, although he was still skeptical on the topic. But slowly his anger was fading to concern.
"Yeah..." Kel felt extremely guilty, but at this point she didn't know what else to do. "Well, I guess I had something worse. A virus of some type. But I'm getting better." She added hurriedly.
It was Dom's turn to put his hand comfortingly on Kel's knee and make 'her' stiffen.
"So what did Neal find?" Dom questioned.
"When? Oh." Kel remembered her lie (sort of) slowly. "Like I said. He told me I was getting better. I know I'll make it through." Kel sighed heavily as if she wanted to say more, but she didn't. Dom shifted his position slightly, trying to stretch. The movement caused his hand to travel slowly and slightly up Kel's leg. She shivered, but didn't do anything to stop him. Dom didn't seem to notice the new position of his hand.
"Maybe you should change clothes." Kel suggested her voice only cracking slightly.
"Why?"
"'Cause those one's are wet... from your bath...and they're... and they're smothering your body." Kel stammered.
"What does that mean?" He asked unsure.
"It means that I'm envious of that cloth." Kel murmured.
"Huh?" Dom managed still at a loss.
*It means that your clothes are hugging your contours in ways only I want to be able to.* Kel thought. As soon as the thought entered her head she was upset with herself for thinking it. *I'm seventeen what kind of sick seventeen-year-old has these kinds of thoughts?* Kel wondered. "It means I can see everything." She answered suggestively.
"Deal with it." Dom said lightly. "I know the feeling."
"What?"
"If I were you-"
Kel cut him off. "You're not." She said firmly. "You'll never know what it's like to be me." She snapped.
"You're right." Dom bit back. "I can't even try to sympathize with you. You wont even let me try to get in your heart."
"Bullshit!" Kel yelled. "Now what were you saying before all this crap?" She asked.
Dom began softly. "If I were you I wouldn't wear that top again. Especially in front of the Own."
"Why?" Kel demanded.
"We went through this before." Dom grumbled. "It's see through."
"Really?" She asked pleasantly. Kel shifted gears going from bitter to teasing in an instant. "You like it don't you?"
"Yeah. I love it, as much as you like my wet cloths on me." Dom said, unsure of Kel's sudden change of heart.
"That much, huh?" She acted surprised. "That's quite a bit." She leaned forward to put her hand on his left knee. He stiffened slightly. They were quiet for a moment. Then two and three... but it was a comfortable, calm silence.
The pair might have sat this way the entire night if not for interruption. The thick wooden door rattled lightly as someone knocked. Kel and Dom jumped apart of if they had been doing something very wrong. Dom blushed knowing that to an outsider their situation wouldn't look appropriate. Dom stood, wiped his sweaty palms on his slowly drying, yet still damp, breeches and approached the door.
A/N: You like, you hate, you could give a rat's- yeah- less? Just let me know, I'm a big girl, I can take it... I hope.
Here's the thank yous...( come on people 20? you can do better than that! lets go for at least twenty-five this time! reviews are addicting... the more you get the more you want... so dish!)
*Aimee Damita: YAY! That was my favorite part too, although I could never do that to Neal.. I need him too much ^-^ Interesting, I've never had anyone fling themselves at me before... except James, but that's different...
*AJ 4EVA*: Thanks, I hope this was soon enough, school has got me swamped.
*Angel4eva3*: You're trying to get me in an acident aren't you... wrting and driving at the same time? sounds dangerous...but i have no car so no worries there... sorry for the lateness
*Angel of Wind*: is that sarcasm i detect? using my own tools against me? How rude! jk Yeah, I e-mailed you back, so there... did you like my story idears?
*Annoying-Angel18*: Thank you! Man! your review alone was enough to keep me going. talk about a warm fuzzy feeling! I hope you continue reading, liking, and reviewing...wait, what do you mean maybe? OF COURSE Kel and Dom are meant for each other (neal's my self claimed territory)
*bubblegum*girl*: HEY EVERYBODY! did you hear that? bubblegum*girl added me to her favorites! thanks chica... keep on keeping on
*Charlotte Bell*: thanks, i'm glad you like it... are you offering to be my editor? cuz I'm just to lazy to do it myself
*daftpunk*: thanks! that is so sweet of you! I loved how you made up your own words (suckith) I wasn't even trying to write a 'chessy soap opera' imagine what i could do if i TRIED just be warned. thanks for the 'flame' what else don't you like? And are you anonymous b-cuz you don't have an account (they're easy and free...) or because you were afraid of me? Jk I blame the pain medication...and my never-ending supply of sarcasm
*dragon defender*: I'm seriously blushing here. thanks, jealous make me pleased for some reason. even if you did scold me for my late update. oh well, i derseved it and someone had to do it thanks, i think...
*Dragonlass11*: Thank you. i hope you weren't disappointed in anyway by this update
*egurlrox*: short, sweet and to the point, I like it. I hope you like this chappie.
*FlamingKnight*: yay! I'm so proud of you. Thank you for everything...
*jazy716*: Life is full of problems... but kel and dom are working on theirs... slowly, what do you think...?
*Lara Roberts*: Thank you just ever so much! I'm glad you liked it. I always try to stick funny bits in there, and i love it when people mention how much they like them ^-^
*protector of the small*: thanks, I think, think is the key word here, I will... unless some road block comes up
*PsychoLioness13*: thankies thankies...(sorry i'm a littled doped up right now, i had my wisdom teeth pulled thursday)
*queenofdiamonds1*: NEAL'S mine, just ask angel of wind... hehe sorry still dopy
*Sabrina11*: why? It's fun to make people all miserable and angsty, then they're twice as happy when things go right? oh okay, dom and kel are working on it... happy now? :)
*sorrel rowan*: thanks, I was worried that you were going to flame me for a minute. can I ask why you didn't like the beginning? Just so I can improve on futre writings? To be completely honest I didn't like my start either, but that's cuz it seemed forced/ rushed to me, what did you think?
*sw33t t3mptations*: ha, your pen name's cool. I like it. I'm glad you like my story and I hope you continue to review, I makes me feel awesome! thanks!
*TPfreak*: yea! yea! yea! funfunfun! FINALLY! no one else said anything abour Neal and his odd infatuation, I was hoping someone would. you just SO made my day! THANK YOU! Yea, this was written, but nothing else is. Hopefully i'll get time to write, I haven't yet... when they say honors english they mean it. Since school started, it's been nothing but non-stop homework... but I'll MAKE time to write, just for you ^-^
-- sorry if i forgot someone...but i'm so out of it, I got to stay home today and yesterday cuz i had me wisdom teeth pulled, very painful, but morphine's great!
-- so hey! What do you guys(guys meaning gals, cause I don't know if there are any guys out there, and if there are, please let me know!) think, what should happen to kel and dom next? should things contune at their present pace, or speed up? What should they say? it's up to you! Because I've lost my mind... and more! -- LDoQ
~ Lady Daffodil of Queenscove (_x_)