Title: Confessions Lead to Strange Bedfellows
Author: Kimberly21570
Fandom: Guiding Light
Pairings: Olivia and Natalia
Disclaimers and Other Assorted Ramblings: First of all, please allow me to apologize for the unusually slow burn this story seems to have taken on. I hadn't planned it to be that way, but … as those of you who write, know, the writer's plans don't always seem to matter. We live at the mercy of our artistic muse, and that being the case, our stories often take twists and turns that were not anticipated. When the muse strikes, sometimes we go willingly – And … sometimes we go kicking and screaming … But the bottom line is: We always GO … And thus, the unexpected (even by me) twist that this chapter takes near the end …
The characters of Olivia and Emma Spencer, Natalia and Rafe Rivera, Josh Lewis, Reva Shayne, and Matt Reardon are owned by Guiding Light, CBS/TeleNext and Proctor & Gamble. No copyright infringement intended with regard to GL, CBS/TeleNext, P & G, or any other entity. Please see the author's note at the end of this update for additional disclaimers, as placing them here would compromise the artistic flow of the update; meaning, it would reveal crucial details, thus ruining the element of surprise. Tease much? Umm … Yeah … *wink* But I think at least some of you will appreciate what's coming …
That being said, in order to make the plot twists contained in this update work smoothly, I have regressed Olivia's age – she is not in her forties, but rather, in her late thirties; making her only slightly older than Natalia. And let's face it – CC looks like she's in her early thirties anyway, so the only real stretch of the imagination was trying to buy that she was in her mid-forties to begin with … Just sayin' …
Anyway, the dialogue, props, etc. in these scenes are original. Written for fun, not profit. All other standard disclaimers apply.
Rating: Chapter 6.3 is rated R for sexual situations, strong innuendo and language; but subsequent chapters will eventually reach NC-17 – I swear, they will. Just keep in mind, though, that despite the fact that I've been writing this story for nearly 8 months, the actual timeline has only progressed to a few days past Valentine's Day. I do promise, though, that it will pick up pace; moving several weeks into the future, within the next few chapters. That being said, thank you all, so much, for hanging in there so patiently. I hope you all continue to enjoy their journey.
Confessions Lead to Strange Bedfellows
Copyright May 2009
"We dance around in a ring and suppose. But the secret sits in the middle and knows …"
Robert Frost; The Secret Sits from "A Witness Tree"
Chapter 6.3 – The Dance:
Olivia knew the world of construction well; having worked closely with Josh at Lewis Construction on the completion of the San Cristobel Harbor Project during the early days of their transitory marriage. And ever the meticulous entrepreneur, she insisted upon being involved in every last detail of the planned Beacon renovations – Every discussion, every decision, from the quality of the wood used for framing, to the cost-benefit of using drywall over fiberglass wall panels; the durability of granite over marble for the flooring and countertops in the lobby, and the selection of the perfect hue of granite to best display the centerpiece of the newly-designed Beacon logo, was on the hotelier's radar, and no amount of persuasion would deter her innate drive and unbridled enthusiasm for the project; because this was about far more than just mere structural renovations – It was about watching Natalia come into her own …
Olivia stood at the conference table next to Josh, reviewing two sets of blueprints – the current structure, and the renovation plans; her arms extended, hands pressing down on the table, causing the well-defined muscles in her upper arms to ripple under the fabric of her designer jacket.
Natalia found herself entranced, as if she could literally feel the taut skin of Olivia's biceps undulating beneath the fabric. I can almost Feel your muscles tightening against my body, as if you're holding me right now …, she mused; sensing her body temperature rising at the mere notion of being in Olivia's arms. God, I wish you were holding me …, she sighed longingly to herself.
Moving her right hand, Olivia pointed to an area on the blueprint, "Can we leave this wall intact," she began, sliding a deliberate finger along a straight line, "and knock this one out, to open up the space?" she asked; shifting her finger to trace another line on the plans.
Josh cupped his chin in his hand; fingers scraping over the roughness of his beard, as he carefully surveyed the two sets of plans. "Well, taken as a whole, I think that's the best course of action," he agreed; dropping his hand onto the table. "That'll keep us from having to construct temporary reinforcements while we renovate the space."
"Perfect," Olivia declared. "That'll save some major cash right there …" she noted; quickly moving on to the next major concern. "And what do you think about …"
The actual words seemed to fade into the distance; echoing somewhere near the back of her mind, as Natalia watched Olivia intently, engrossed in the sheer essence of the woman she loved; finding the energy the hotelier emitted while engaging in the planning process absolutely intoxicating; much like the woman herself. You really have no idea how completely enthralling you are when you're in action – Do you, Olivia?, she wondered. God, you're Hot when you're taking charge …
Olivia felt Natalia's gaze on her, and glanced up from the blueprints she was poring over with Josh; offering the Latina a soft, knowing smile.
Natalia smiled shyly in return; both women basking in the quiet intimacy of the stolen moment, before Olivia turned her attention back to the task at hand.
A proud smile crept across Olivia's lips, as she continued discussing the plans with Josh. Proud, because the new corporate image, as well as the planned renovations for the more contemporary layout of the Beacon had been Natalia's ideas – separate wings of the hotel to cater to the specific needs of different classes of travelers, and an all-encompassing promise that all travelers would find within the walls of the Beacon, whatever amenities they desired, together with all the comforts of home.
The penthouse suites, all except Olivia's, were to be endowed with high-end furniture that was both stylish and comfortable, and décor befitting the regal images of foreign diplomats, politicians, and Presidents, because Springfield being the State Capital, the Beacon was often called upon to host such dignitaries; and experience had taught Natalia that these individuals were accustomed to being treated like royalty.
The business wing was slated to be outfitted with a stylish brand of corporate furnishings, and contemporary décor, befitting the images of presidents and CEO's of Fortune 500 companies. Featured amenities would include a state-of-the-art business center, complete with a Internet-ready computers for those who found themselves in need, copy and fax services, meeting rooms with projection and sound equipment for presentations, and available staff to fulfill the needs of any traveling businessperson at any hour of the day or night. Being present for Olivia's 2:00 a.m. business calls with associates in Tokyo, Milan, Madrid, or countless other cities across the globe had schooled Natalia in the complexities and peculiarities of international business, and had been the catalyst for such amenities.
And a family wing was planned, with rooms decorated and furnished with all the comforts of home, child-care services, an indoor playground, a computer/gaming room with an array of different gaming systems, as well as pool tables, board games, puzzles, and a theatre-sized HD television screen with surround sound, as well as planned activities such as family bingo, trivial pursuit contests, dance contests and karaoke.
Finally, in the common areas of the Beacon would remain Watershed, the full-service gym, the sauna, and the indoor swimming pool which included a wading pool for younger children, and a hot tub for the adults. A quaint coffee house, with a sort of Bohemian groove; aptly slated to be called Rhapsody, was in the plans, and an extensive library would be added to the common area, as well; providing a wide array of reading materials, including both classic and contemporary literature, national newspapers, periodicals, and the like.
By the conclusion of their meeting, decisions had been made; plans had been set in stone, and Olivia was ready to move full steam ahead with the renovations. As Josh and Matt gathered up the blueprints and other assorted materials, and Natalia dutifully cleared away their coffee cups and straightened up the conference room; despite Olivia's protests that it was no longer in her job description, Olivia leaned back in her chair, hands clasped behind her head as she ruminated over the series of events that had brought them to this place.
Other than getting Natalia's money back after the whole Hedge Fund debacle, the brightest spot in having been forced to resign her position as spokesperson for Galaxy Hotels was Olivia's plan to give Larry Decker and his company a serious run for their money. In fact, doing just that had been part of her long-range plans ever since she parted ways with the malevolent businessman after he attempted to weasel out of their deal; and she had been formulating her plan of action for several months. And truth be told, if she hadn't been so taken with Mr. Xiao, she might have considered launching a takeover of the Galaxy Hotel Empire, itself.
Now, thanks to Natalia's ingenuity, Olivia was truly excited about the new venture – and based upon this new business model, she planned to show Decker and his Galaxy Hotels exactly how a prosperous hotel chain should be managed. They would renovate the Springfield Beacon; then use it as a model, as they expanded the Beacon into the largest, most prosperous chain of hotels in existence.
Starting with a Midwest expansion – Indianapolis, Chicago and St. Louis were first on the list, and then, moving along the East Coast – New York City, Boston, Martha's Vineyard, Philadelphia, and Virginia Beach were the hot points on the radar. Dipping into the deep South – Charleston, Nashville, Louisville, Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, and Houston were in the plans, and ultimately across the Western Plains – Denver, Cheyenne, Santa Fe, Portland, into California, where they would build the San Francisco, Napa Valley, San Diego and Los Angeles Beacons – the hotels that would become Ava's, if she so desired. Before they were finished, Olivia dreamed that together, she, Natalia and their children would make Beacon Hotels a household name – planting a "home away from home" for every dignitary, every business traveler, and every vacationing family, in every major city, not only across the United States, but throughout Europe, as well as the Caribbean – and specifically in San Cristobel, where she hoped to share countless memory-making moments with Natalia and their family.
As she watched Natalia organizing the room, returning it to its customary order, she smiled softly to herself; truly awed at the way this young woman never ceased to amaze her. You have absolutely No idea how Completely remarkable you are – Do you? You simply amaze me, she thought; purposing in that moment to make certain Natalia not only knew, but would never forget. I'm so Proud of you, Sweetheart …
Turning her attention back to reality, she grinned at Josh. "Are you gentlemen up for a few drinks over at Watershed?" she invited.
Josh shot Natalia a knowing grin, shaking his head; which elicited a chuckle from the Latina, as she dried the newly-sanitized coffee carafe.
"Wish I could, Olivia …" Matt quickly replied, "but I have Greenpeace meeting this afternoon, and I've gotta run, or more appropriately, peddle …" he announced; grinning proudly about his plan to single-handedly save the planet by peddling through the driven snow on his bicycle. "Maybe later?"
"We'll talk …" Olivia replied assuredly, with the scrunching of her nose; effectively dismissing the vapid character from her midst. She immediately felt the slight, yet unmistakable, pang of guilt for the derogatory nature of her tacit thoughts; and she smiled to herself. Wow, that's Totally You, she though; glancing at Natalia, as she once again considered the vast array of changes that had occurred in her attitudes and character since meeting the woman who had unwittingly become her foundation; her cornerstone for living. It's your influence over me … You challenge me, every day, to be a better person than I was the day before … And now I find that I actually Want to be better, because … because I want, more than anything, to be truly worthy of your love …
"Sounds good," he affirmed with a firm nod; and with that, he said a quick goodbye to Natalia and Josh, and headed toward the reception area.
Forcefully dragging her eyes away from Natalia, and collecting her thoughts, Olivia turned her attention back to Josh. "What about you, Josh?" she tempted; grinning at her favorite ex-husband.
Josh picked up the cylinder containing the blueprints, tucking it beneath his arm, as he glanced at her; head tilted to the side, a playful grin on his lips. "Much as I'd love to slam back a few Bourbons with ya, Olivia, I have …"
Olivia arched an eyebrow, "You have a lunch date with the old ball-and-chain?" she snarked.
"Now, now …" Josh said soothingly; amusement twinkling in his slate-blue eyes, as he attempted to calm the proverbial beast, "Reva isn't that old …" he grinned.
"Well, at least not compared to Methuselah …" Olivia muttered; referencing the oldest living human in the Bible.
Natalia chuckled and shook her head, as she set the dried carafe back on the burner; making sure the machine was turned off. Olivia's sarcasm never ceased to amuse her; though, she would rarely consider admitting so to the hotelier.
"You do realize that I'm older than Reva – don't you?" he asked rhetorically; smiling, as he tilted his head to one side again, in that endearing way that reminded Natalia of Olivia, "So … I guess that makes me at least as old as Methuselah …"
At that moment, Olivia caught a glimpse of Diane standing in the doorway; obviously soaking up fodder for future gossip sessions, as she pretended to wait for an appropriate time to interrupt.
Recognizing this as an advantageous situation, Olivia flashed Josh that tantalizing half-smile, as she sauntered toward him. "Ahhh … but You, Mr. Lewis … have aged to perfection …" she crooned; slowly, seductively running the palms of her hands across the wide expanse of his chest. "You're timeless …" she purred; jade eyes twinkling with mischief.
Natalia, not having noticed Diane's presence, watched the exchange intently; that nagging sense of uneasiness returning. She couldn't explain it; except to say that it reminded her of the anxiety she experienced when Olivia threatened to take Gus away – Only this time, it was Olivia she was afraid of losing, and that magnified the intensity of her fears a thousand-fold. Logically, she knew Josh Lewis wasn't a threat to her relationship with Olivia; but as Olivia had so aptly pointed out long ago, emotions have nothing to do with logic – and watching the hotelier blatantly flirting with her "favorite ex-husband" caused such a sense of disquiet within her, it left her feeling nauseous and faint.
Noticing Natalia's reaction, Josh's compassionate spirit took charge, and he purposed to alleviate the young woman's anxiety. He nonchalantly stepped back from Olivia, as he engaged her in a bit of innocuous banter. "You know, as a former pastor … I can certainly appreciate your Biblical humor, Olivia …" he said; a satirical smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "It's new, and … refreshing …" he declared; humor twinkling in his slate blue eyes. "Natalia must be … rubbing off on you …" he said purposefully; hoping to elicit a feral reaction from the hotelier.
"Oh, she's definitely rubbing something on me …" Olivia mumbled under her breath; casting a knowing grin toward the Latina; causing olive skin to turn crimson. "And she can rub anything she wants on me – Anytime …"
"I'm sorry … I didn't quite catch that. What did you say?" Josh smirked; knowing full-well exactly what the hotelier had said.
"I said … Natalia is definitely a good influence on me …" Olivia fibbed; turning toward the Latina, flashing bright smile in her direction.
Noting the expression in Olivia's eyes, Josh prodded her a bit. "You know … I'll never understand why you hate Reva with so vehemently, yet … you love Natalia with such unbridled passion …" he said; reading Olivia's feelings for the Latina like an open book.
Natalia shot him a shocked expression; wondering how he could possibly know the intensity of Olivia's feelings for her. She made a mental note to ask him about that later; but in the meantime, she understood by his demeanor, the accepting hue in his warm eyes, that it was safe to be open with him.
Completely unperturbed by Josh's insight into her feelings, Olivia furrowed her brow. "I don't see what one has to do with the other …" she stated; a confused expression on her face.
Natalia grinned knowingly, as she walked toward Olivia; noticing Diane for the first time. That's why you were touching him that way … she sighed; feeling the nausea wane. You really need to get yourself under control, Natalia. You're being Completely ridiculous, she silently chastised. Then, directing her attention toward the proverbial fly on the wall, "Did you need to see me for something, Diane?" she asked.
"Yes, Ms. Rivera …" Diane politely confirmed; hands clasped in front of her, as she feigned disinterest in the goings-on in the room.
"Okay. Just have a seat in the reception area, if you will, and I'll be right with you …" Natalia instructed.
"Yes, Ma'am," Diane said compliantly; annoyed at being dismissed. Dammit! Just when things were getting Good!, she groused; turning and shuffling away.
Natalia reached Olivia's side, casually draping an arm around the hotelier's slender waist. "I think what he's trying to say is: You and Reva were at each other's throats over him, and you can't stand Her; but … after sparring with me over Gus, you and I became best friends …" and So much more … she mused; gracing the hotelier with a splash of those intoxicating dimples.
Olivia offered her a radiant smile; then glanced at Josh for verification. Receiving a confirmatory nod in response, she conceded his point. "I guess I can see your point when it comes to fighting over you and Gus – He was as great a guy as you," she declared, "but … Natalia is the anti-Reva, if ever one existed," she argued; latching a possessive arm around the Latina's waist.
"Oh, I seriously beg to differ, Olivia," Josh vehemently disagreed, "Reva has endless amounts of inner strength, and this amazing vitality for life … She's passionate about those she loves, fiery as hell when she's pissed, and … she's beau …"
"Okay, okay, I get it! Please! Can we just stop with the Reva-induced love-fest, already?!" Olivia said dramatically; holding up her hand, attempting to halt any further recitation from Josh. She hated to admit any similarities whatsoever between the love of her life and her arch-nemesis; but it was difficult to avoid, given Josh's impassioned recitation of the buxom blonde's character traits. He may be correct about all that, but … he's fooling himself if he thinks that woman is anywhere Near as Beautiful as You …, she mused; glancing at the beautiful Latina who was now thoroughly attached to her hip.
Josh laughed. "Alright, alright," he conceded; shaking his head at her fiery response. "Actually, when I think about it, You're as much like Reva, as Natalia is …" he asserted; playfully fueling her fire once again.
"Ohhh, them's fightin' words, Joshua Lewis!" Olivia vehemently protested; jade eyes flashing. "I am nothing like Reva Shayne Lewis Spaulding whateverthefuckhernameisnow!"
Josh tossed back his head, laughing heartily. "Them's fightin' words?" he echoed. "I swear, you literally sound like you're channeling Reva right now," he teased; causing Natalia to chuckle softly.
"Oh, just … shut up!" Olivia huffed; but the grin that played on the corners of her mouth gave her away. "I don't know where the hell That came from …"
A teasing grin tripped across Josh's lips. "One too many bar brawls with the Lewis's, Shayne's, and Spaulding's, I suppose …" he chuckled. "But I'm tellin' ya, you're channeling Reva – You just called me Joshua, 'cause you're pissed at me, and that's totally a Reva thing …" he playfully tormented. "That … and the way you …" he leaned in; the scruffiness of his beard and mustache teasing the smoothness of her cheek, as he whispered something salacious in her ear; causing an uncharacteristic blush to creep across her face, as her mouth dropped wide open.
"So … I rest my case …" he smirked; picking up his briefcase.
She stared at him in total disbelief, but emitted not a sound, as he leaned in again, kissing the thoroughly muted woman on the cheek. "It was nice seeing you again, Natalia," she said to the woman who was still attached to his ex-wife's hip; regarding her with a warm smile, and an amiable nod of his head.
"I-it was nice … to ss-see you too, Josh," Natalia stammered; wondering what exactly it was that he'd said to Olivia to elicit such a reaction.
He read the expression on her face, and met it with humor in his sparkling blue eyes; then turned to leave. "Call me later if you're still up for drinks …" he tossed back toward the hotelier, as he sauntered out the door, closing it behind him.
Natalia turned to look at her; stunned by the way he had so effortlessly subdued the customarily loquacious woman. "What did he say to you?" she smiled; a hint of laughter in her tone.
Olivia stood there; stock still for a moment, her mouth still agape. "I … he … Umm …" she spluttered. Then, glancing at Natalia, she finally found her voice, "Trust me, you don't … wanna know …" she warned; knowing full-well the comment would embarrass the sheltered Latina.
"I'm not that naïve, Olivia – So stop protecting me!" Natalia protested; jealous of the fact that Josh Lewis knew something about Olivia that she didn't. "Tell me!" she demanded; challenging the hotelier with those intense mahogany eyes.
A devilish grin skittered across Olivia's face, as she pulled Natalia into her arms; the Latina's arms instinctively draping across on the hotelier's shoulders.
Leaning in, Olivia nuzzled Natalia's ear, "I'd rather show you, than tell you …" she whispered hoarsely; sucking lightly on the Natalia's earlobe, causing a sharp intake of breath into the Latina's lungs. "So you'll just have to wait and see …" she tantalized; trailing slow, wet kisses down the taut muscle that ran south from her ear; pausing to nip and suck at her pulse point.
Natalia moaned softly at the contact. "And you call me the tease …" she groused; her voice low and heady with desire, as her body instantaneously responded to the hotelier's ministrations.
"I'm not teasing you …" Olivia denied; slowly making her way to Natalia's lips. "I'm merely giving you a preview of coming attractions …" she seductively explained; claiming those lips with an open-mouthed kiss, as her hands slipped beneath the fabric of Natalia's crisp, white shirt; pulling the Latina tighter against her body.
"¡Madre de Dios! No puedo esperar para ver la producción entera," (Mother of God! I can't wait to see the entire production), Natalia exclaimed breathily, as Olivia stealthily slipped her tongue between parting lips; exploring the depths of the Latina's mouth.
Olivia grinned against Natalia's lips at the passion-infused outburst, and Natalia's fingers tangled in the soft chestnut locks that draped the back of Olivia's neck; pulling her deeper into their kiss, as adept hands gently caressed the warm skin of the Latina's lower back, just above the waistline of her charcoal gray slacks.
As their kisses continued, long and languorous, Olivia's hands casually moved up Natalia's sides; gently kneading into warm flesh, her thumbs slowly caressing the soft, smooth underside of the Latina's ample breasts.
"Your hands feel so good …" Natalia nearly gasped against Olivia's mouth, before embarking on a path down that graceful neck, landing on her pulse point, where she lingered; enjoying the quickening pace of the hotelier's heartbeat beneath her mouth and tongue.
"No … You feel good …" Olivia groaned softly; claiming Natalia's mouth for another kiss – this one all-too-fleeting for the Latina's liking. "Which is why we need to stop …" she quietly declared; breathing heavily as she gently pulled away.
Leaning her forehead against Natalia's, Olivia smiled softly. "I could spend all day just kissing you …" she whispered; breathing in the essence of Natalia.
"Why don't we test that theory out right now …?" Natalia suggested; attempting to pull Olivia into another kiss.
Olivia grinned and playfully dodged those seeking lips. "Uh-uh, not so fast, Hot Lips," she teased; causing Natalia to laugh at her latest nickname. "If memory serves me correctly, you have a lower-level staff meeting this afternoon, and we need to get some lunch in you before then."
I'd Rather have something Else in me …, Natalia thought; her entire body flushing at the feral thought, shocking herself. Get a grip, Natalia … she silently chastised; attempting to hide her growing embarrassment.
Olivia watched the shifting emotions as they flitted across Natalia's face. "You okay?" she asked quietly; concern evident in her tone.
"Huh? What? Yeah, I'm fine …" Natalia sputtered; attempting to regain her composure. In an effort to change the subject, she arched a decided eyebrow. "Since we had another snow day yesterday, do I get a raincheck that I can redeem for lunch at McDonald's today?"
"Absolutely …" Olivia grinned; allowing the issue to drop, as she contemplated possibilities for their lunchtime antics. "My office at one?"
"I'll be there at 12:45 – ice cream and French fries in hand …" Natalia winked; kissing Olivia lightly, before taking her leave of the conference room; going in search of Diane who had been waiting quite some time to talk with her boss.
A few minutes later, Natalia unexpectedly popped her head into Olivia's office; finding the hotelier busily reviewing the latest financial statements for an upcoming meeting with their management team.
"Hey …" she said cheerily; smiling at the hotelier.
"Hey!" Olivia exclaimed with a smile; both surprised and pleased to see her again so soon. "Thought you were running to get lunch …" she said; equal parts statement and question.
"We have a bit of a crisis down at Watershed," Natalia informed; rolling her eyes.
Olivia shot her a concerned expression. "Anything I can do to help?" she offered.
"Thanks, but I can handle it," Natalia replied, her voice strong and self-assured; causing another surge of pride to imbue Olivia's heart. "I just wanted to let you know I'll be tied up for awhile, so I might be a little later than one …"
Jade eyes flashed with flecks of copper and gold, as the corners of Olivia's mouth curled into that devilish grin at the mention of Natalia being tied up.
Natalia tossed her head back, laughing jovially. "Don't even say it, Baby," she teasingly cautioned.
"Say what?" Olivia asked; feigning complete innocence.
"You know exactly what …" Natalia smiled; dark eyes flashing with golden flecks of their own.
Olivia leaned forward; clasping her hands together under her chin. "Tell me anyway …" she seductively coaxed; her voice a low whisper, as that playful grin teased at the corners of her mouth.
"The only thing I'm gonna tell you right now, is that I asked Greg to pick up lunch for us, since I have to deal with the staff down at Watershed," Natalia teased.
Olivia smiled at her. "That's my girl! Way to delegate, Sweetheart," she said proudly.
Natalia laughed at Olivia's exuberance over something so seemingly trivial. "Perhaps, but … it might also cause a bit of gossip," she informed.
"Oh? How so?" Olivia asked.
"Well, when I told him we wanted French fries and ice cream sundaes … he asked me if I was pregnant …" Natalia laughed; shaking her head at the absurd notion.
"And what did you say to that?"
"I just laughed, and walked away …" Natalia replied nonchalantly.
"Perfect!" Olivia announced. "That'll keep him wondering …"
"And maybe send him buzzing to the rest of the hive?" Natalia suggested; arching an eyebrow.
"Oooh, You learn fast," Olivia purred; clearly impressed with the Latina's prowess for playing the game at hand.
"I learned from the Master …" Natalia shrugged; grinning at the hotelier. "You taught me everything I know …"
"I can't wait to teach you more …" Olivia growled almost under her breath, as she pondered all the wondrous things she had in store for the Latina once they were both ready to take their relationship to the physical level.
"I heard that …" Natalia announced; tossing the hotelier a seductive grin, as she slipped away from the office door, heading toward Watershed.
Olivia just smiled.
Springfield, being the Capital of Illinois, was known as a bustling mid-western metropolis; the economy of which was marked by a combination of government jobs, Fortune 500 companies such as Spaulding Enterprises and Lewis Oil, family-owned businesses, like Company and Lewis Construction; and then there was the Beacon – the first of many hotels that would be owned and operated by Olivia Spencer, Natalia Rivera and their family, for generations to come.
Olivia knew the Beacon expansion would take a generous infusion of capital; and acquiring capital meant pitching to investors – wealthy ones, with cash to burn. One such potential investor was Olivia's aforementioned friend and business contact – the one with the cottage on Martha's Vineyard. A woman whose prowess rivaled Olivia's own, in every capacity – a woman whom the hotelier highly revered, and who regarded her in equal fashion. And with these particulars in mind, Olivia had formulated a multi-faceted plan – One that had been brewing for quite some time, and which she intended upon setting into motion that very afternoon.
After their completely unhealthy lunch of ice cream and French fries, shared amongst countless languorous tongue kisses, soft moans, and even a few mischievously wandering hands, Natalia kicked back in the chair opposite Olivia's desk; propping her feet up on the edge. "Oh, have you called your contact about that house on Martha's Vineyard?" she said; more a reminder than a question. A revealing grin sprinkled her lips, as she bounced playfully; unable to conceal her growing excitement. The idea of the trip had bothered her at first, for all the reasons she had mentioned; but after hearing Olivia's well-formulated arguments, she was more than ready for the experience.
"Just about to take care of that …" Olivia announced with a wink.
"Okay … Well, I'll let you get to that …" Natalia said, rising from her chair; scripting her own dismissal, so that Olivia could attend to business, uninterrupted.
"Oh, no, Honey. Stay. If you want …" she offered; patting the top of her thigh with her hand as she grinned; the unspoken gesture inviting her executive assistant to take a seat in her lap. "You can listen to me wheel-and-deal …" she winked flirtatiously. And then her expression turned facetiously sober, "You are clocked out right now – aren't ya?" she teased.
Natalia grinned at her. "Stop it," she chuckled, as she sauntered toward the hotelier; draping her arm across Olivia's shoulder, as she planted herself in the proffered lap. Settling in, she hummed lightly, "I've never been in your lap before … I kinda like it here …"
"Consider it an open invitation …" Olivia purred; lightly brushing Natalia's lips with her own. And then she smiled as she reached across her desk, hitting the call button on her office phone; switching it to speaker. Though she didn't call often – the relationship with her old friend and colleague being more readily maintained via e-mail due to their mutually prolific lifestyles, Olivia had a thing for remembering numbers, and her fingers moved swiftly, punching in the familiar sequence to connect the call.
Nearly a thousand miles and one time zone away, a telephone rang, three … four … five times, before the recognizable click of a speakerphone signaled an answer. "Lena Kundera …" came the distinguished Polish accent; mixed with the sound of papers shuffling in the background. She furrowed her brow, as she searched the spreadsheet on her screen; checking it against the report in her hand.
Olivia smiled at the resonance of the familiar voice. "Little slow on the uptake there – aren't we, Kundera?" she teased. "How the hell do you expect to launch a takeover of Cambias Industries, when it takes ya half the day to answer your damn phone?" she laughed.
"Smartass …" Lena playfully volleyed; the edges of her lips cracking into a slow smile, as she recognized the voice on the other end. She clicked the "save" button on her spreadsheet, and snapped her laptop closed; instinctively knowing this would be a lengthy conversation. "Get with the program, Spencer – I took over Cambias nearly five years ago …" she teasingly chastised. "I have far bigger corporate coffers to pillage these days …" she laughed.
"Ahhh … see, now That's what I appreciate most about ya, Kundera," Olivia proclaimed; admiration evident in her tone. "Ya never think small …" she laughed; knowing her friend's particular prowess for selecting a prime target; her insatiable penchant for kicking ass and taking names when it came to corporate raiding. That's why she admired the woman – Lena Kundera was the Polish version of herself, sans that whole Michael Cambias drama; though, Olivia fully acknowledged her own fair share of drama over the years. "So … Who's the unfortunate sonofabitch this time?"
Lena threw her head back and laughed. "Always the straight-shooter …"
"Not so much anymore …" Olivia mumbled under her breath, as she grinned devilishly at Natalia; garnering a light slap on the arm and a playful grin from the woman perched in her lap.
"You're bad!" Natalia silently mouthed; dark eyes widening in emphasis.
Olivia quirked an eyebrow at her and shrugged her shoulders; a satisfied grin plastered on her face.
"What did you just say?" Lena inquired; certain she must have misinterpreted the seemingly gay reference in Olivia's comment. That's just wishful thinking … Olivia Spencer certainly isn't a switch-hitter.
"Oh, nothing …" Olivia said nonchalantly; brushing the comment aside.
Lena smiled and rolled her eyes. "O-kay … I'll let you off the hook – for now …" she teased; fully intending to ferret out an explanation before allowing her old friend to end their call.
Olivia laughed. "Gee, thanks …" she said facetiously; kicking back, relaxing in her chair.
Intrigued with the idea of someone else finding out about their relationship; even if it was someone she didn't know, Natalia formulated a plan. She shifted in Olivia's lap; tossing her head to flip her hair to one side, as she wrapped her arms around her partner's neck. She leaned in, kissing Olivia lightly, just below her ear.
The effect Natalia's seemingly innocuous actions had on Olivia took her by complete surprise. Desirous eyes slowly caressed perfect olive skin, as Olivia found herself lost in the moment with the woman she loved; and time stood still – at least for the two of them.
Meanwhile, to Lena, the clock ticked on. "Earth to Spencer …" she finally called; attempting to regain her attention after an extended lull in the conversation.
"Huh? What?" Olivia muttered.
"We were having a conversation here …" Lena reminded with a chuckle.
Enjoying the little game, Natalia smiled devilishly at the older woman, and leaned in again; a low growl escaping her lips, as she nibbled at a beckoning ear, before seductively sliding her mouth down the taut cord of muscle to Olivia's pulse point, where her lips and tongue fluttered, ever so lightly.
Olivia moaned softly at the fluttery assault; then gasped and jumped when Natalia lightly nipped at her pulse point; her foot knocking against the inbox on her desk; causing a clatter, as it scraped across the wooden surface.
It teetered on the edge, threatening to drop; and Olivia's eyes widened as her heart rate increased in anticipation. But her body was frozen, stock still, and she was powerless to halt the impending freefall and inevitable cacophony. One last tilt, and the screech of plastic against wood signified its fate – the tray toppled over, plummeting over the edge; landing with a strident crack, scattering purchase orders and budget projections all over the floor.
Both women measured the clutter with scrutinizing eyes; Natalia forcing herself to resist the urge to clean it up right away.
Then, turning her attention from the mess, back to Natalia, Olivia pinned the younger woman with deliberate eyes; transmitting a silent dare with her steady gaze, as she returned to her conversation. "I'm so sorry, Lena," she apologized; attempting to hold her composure. "Something in my office … distracted me … for a moment …"
"What, do you have a family of ferrets staging a hostile takeover in there? Good, Lord, you make a lot of noise!" Lena laughed. "What gives, Spencer?"
Natalia bit her lower lip to stifle the giggle that threatened to escape; eliciting a low groan from Olivia at the gesture.
Lena quirked a well-defined eyebrow, "Are you okay, Olivia?" she asked; her friend's slightly off-kilter behavior causing her a bit of concern.
"I'm fine …" Olivia grunted; staring Natalia down, yet unable to suppress the grin that teased at her lips. "Sooo … competed in any good boat races, of late?" she asked of Lena; as she purposely turned her thoughts to the good 'ol days with her comrade.
Lena chuckled; remembering her history with Olivia. "Not unless you count the paddle boat we took Jordan on at the lake last summer …" she replied; pleased to hear from her longtime friend.
"You're losin' your edge, Kundera …" Olivia teased; shaking her head, as she laughed.
Lena laughed; remembering how much she always enjoyed their banter. "Oh, how I've missed your sarcastic wit! It's been way too damn long, Spencer," she declared; pounding her fist on her desk for emphasis. "How the hell are you?!"
"I know … seems like ages – doesn't it?" Olivia agreed; eyes widening, as she raised an arm in the air for dramatic emphasis.
Natalia smiled as she watched Olivia; enjoying her facial expressions and animated movements, as she engaged in this jovial exchange. This was a whole new side of the hotelier. A side that she instantaneously decided she liked. A lot. Yes, she and Olivia laughed and bantered; but this was different. It was personal; yet … it wasn't – not like it was between her and Olivia. And while others may have felt the stirrings of jealousy, Natalia felt completely secure in this situation; even deciding that she liked this friend of Olivia's, sight unseen.
"Speaking of losing your edge … How's that gorgeous wife of yours?" Olivia inquired of Lena; causing Natalia's eyes to widen in surprise. She considered Olivia with inquiring eyes, and the tips of Olivia's mouth curled into a knowing grin; offering silent answer.
A delighted smile graced Lena's lips as she thought about her wife. "She's just … she's wonderful …" she answered softly; unable to keep that ever-present lopsided grin from her face.
"Still head-over-heels, I see …" Olivia teased. "What's it been – five years since you let that woman tie you down?"
"Ahh … Good memory, Spence …" Lena smiled; sounding rather impressed. "Almost … we celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary on June 12th," she announced proudly; a delighted smile gracing her lips. "Seems like yesterday …" she added wistfully.
"I still can't believe Lena Kundera finally settled down …" Olivia laughed. "Never thought I'd see the day …"
"Happens to the best of us, my friend …" Lena laughed. "And speaking of settling down … How are things with you? Still married to Phillip Spaulding?"
Olivia barked out a laugh; lurching forward in her chair with such force that she nearly dumped Natalia on the floor. "Oh, Fuck, no, Girl! It really has been too damn long!" she exclaimed; waving her hand dramatically, as Natalia attempted to regain her position in Olivia's lap. "Hell, Phillip and I have been divorced, almost as long as you've been married …" she explained; grinning at Natalia as she pulled her close again.
Natalia laughed softly and shook her head. No wonder you're so successful when you negotiate a deal, she thought; enjoying the performance as she watched Olivia interact with her friend; her demeanor reminiscent of a card-carrying member of the Old Boys Club. For This kinda a show, I can tolerate the vulgarities, she reasoned, with a furtive grin.
"Oh, Olivia, I'm so sorry to hear that," Lena sympathized. "I had no idea …"
"Don't be …" Olivia said with a sardonic chuckle. "I've been married and divorced twice since Phillip ..." she said; the oppressive weight of her past bearing heavily on her chest.
"I know we don't talk often, and I guess we tend to focus more on the kids when we e-mail …" Lena reasoned out loud, as she reflected over their years of correspondence. "But still, I should've known when you didn't mention him, Olivia. I can't believe I didn't know …" she quietly chastised herself; knowing Olivia deserved better of their friendship.
Olivia recognized the self-recrimination in Lena's tone, and sought to assuage it. "Hey, don't be too hard on yourself, Kundera," she said softly. "I never said anything, because the reality of all the shit that went down with Phillip was way too intense for an e-mail," Olivia explained. "And … quite honestly, Lena, I felt like a total failure relationship-wise and just never felt up to talking about it …" she admitted. "So, I did what I always do – I avoided the subject, deflected my feelings, and covered with sarcastic wit …"
Her voice softened then, as she gazed into the beautiful, dark eyes of the woman in her arms. "But … everything has changed now …" she whispered with a smile, "and those days are long gone …"
"So … I take it all is well, then …" Lena said; more a statement than a question, based upon her assessment of Olivia's demeanor.
"Never better, Lena …" Olivia answered; unable to keep the love-struck grin from her face, as smitten jade eyes slowly perused Natalia's face. "Never. Better."
Natalia returned the smile, and leaned down, claiming a soft kiss, as Lena processed the response.
"Wow! You sound happy …" Lena laughed.
"Oh … I am happy, Lena," Olivia quietly shared; smiling softly at the woman in her arms. "I've never been happier in my entire life …" she declared; tightening her hold on Natalia, as she leaned her forehead against the younger woman's chest, drawing in the familiar scent of her.
Lena grinned. "Okay, Spencer – spill it!" she demanded. "Who the hell Is he … and what has he done with The Boardroom Barracuda?" she laughed.
Olivia laughed heartily; then grew quiet for a moment, as she thought about all the positive changes Natalia had brought into her life. "Well … She … is the most amazing person I've ever known …" she confessed, with a passion that shook her to the core of her being.
A soft blush colored Natalia's cheeks at the passion in Olivia's voice; deep dimples forming as she smiled. Fingers tenderly tunneling through chestnut locks, she leaned down, kissing the hotelier again.
"Sh … She …?" Lena stuttered; her head reeling at the concept of Olivia Spencer, Man-eater Extraordinaire, with a woman. "Areyou serious?!" she laughed.
"Yeah …" Olivia sighed contentedly; the tips of her lips twitching into a slow grin. "She's beautiful, Lena – inside and out … And she's so innately good; so loving, and kind, and warm … and so Generous … And she's funny, Lena – God, she's so funny …" she expounded; kissing Natalia's temple, as the younger woman blushed again under her praises.
"Uh-oh …" Lena said teasingly; remembering her own ramblings to Olivia when she first fell in love with Bianca.
"Oh, shut up, Kundera …" Olivia laughed. "You were way worse than this, not so long ago …"
"I know …" Lena chuckled. "I'm just glad to hear you sounding so damn happy, Spencer …" she said; her accented voice almost a whisper. "It's been a long time coming, and you totally deserve it, my friend …"
A contented sigh escaped Olivia's lungs. "Thank you, Lena," she whispered; appreciation evident in her tone. She grew quiet then; closing her eyes as the depth of her feelings for Natalia washed over her. "She's so good to me, Lena … So good for me …" she quietly acknowledged. "And she loves Emma So much …" she exhaled softly.
Natalia sensed the weight of Olivia's emotions; and cradled her close, as she listened to their continuing conversation.
"And she loves Me …" Olivia quietly expounded; jade eyes dark with tears that slowly began to trickle down her cheeks. "Me, Lena … Olivia Spencer … with all my insecurities, and my checkered past, and all of my flaws, and …"
"Sounds like you're talking about Bianca and me …" Lena said quietly; tears brimming in those dark russet eyes, as that familiar feeling of thankfulness filled her heart. "Bianca and I have been together almost seven years now … and I still wake up every morning, wondering what the hell I did to deserve her love …"
"This is all completely new for Natalia and me, but … that's exactly how I feel, Lena," Olivia confessed. "It's like I'm living in this dream, where the most incredible woman in the world loves me … and I don't know why…" she confessed; another torrent to tears welling up in her eyes, as she gazed at Natalia, "because I certainly don't deserve her … All I do know is that I never want it to end …"
Natalia's heart swelled with love, as she listened to Olivia's impassioned exposition; and her own tears began to flow. She leaned in, nuzzling the older woman's ear. "I love you, Olivia …" she whispered breathily, brushing her lips against a tearstained cheek. "So much …"
Closing her eyes, Olivia sniffed back tears, as she reveled in the sensations brought on by Natalia's closeness; by her tender words, and gentle caresses.
"I understand completely, Olivia," Lena quietly empathized; closing her eyes for a moment.
The conversation fell silent then; each woman reflecting upon the immense blessings in her own life.
Natalia gently cupped Olivia's cheek, mahogany eyes slowly searching darkening pools of jade; drowning in the depths therein, as Olivia drew in short, fettered breaths. She leaned down, then; drawing Olivia into the tenderest of kisses, before pulling her close, and holding her again.
A few moments later, Lena sighed softly, opening her eyes. "Her name is Natalia?" she said; seeking clarification, as she returned to their conversation.
"Yeah … Natalia Rivera …" Olivia confirmed with a soft smile; eyes locked on the Latina's once again.
Natalia felt her insides quiver at the sound of her name rolling off Olivia's tongue. I love the way you say my name … How perfectly annunciated the "T" in … NaTalia … she sighed.
"And how did you meet her?" Lena inquired with a grin. "I want all the details," she said clandestinely.
Olivia chuckled. "You wouldn't believe me if I told you …" she replied; shaking her head in disbelief herself.
"Let me guess … She works for you?" Lena grinned.
"Oh, that's just the tip of the iceberg, Honey!" Olivia exclaimed; hand waving dramatically again.
"Oh, hell …" Lena smiled; certain this particular story would be one for the record books. And then it dawned on her, "Oh, my God!" she exclaimed, "It's that woman – isn't it?"
"W-what woman?" Olivia stammered; doing her best to feign complete ignorance; though she knew just exactly what woman Lena was referencing.
"That woman!" Lena replied; knowing full-well Olivia understood. "The one who drove you completely nuts with her terminal cheeriness, incessant hovering and chicken soup after your heart transplant …"
Natalia's face dropped; her eyes widening in surprise, as her visage took on a paradoxical mixture of good-natured indignation – Part of her wanted to be offended; but Olivia's rueful smile reminded her that she loved the oft unruly, and always strong-willed, woman, and her heart just couldn't reconcile such a response. So she simply rolled her eyes, and shook her head, as the sprouts of a smile took root in the corners of her mouth.
Once she knew she had been granted forgiveness from the woman in her arms, Olivia's smile turned from rueful to radiant, and she responded to Lena's accurate supposition. "So much has changed since those, ahem, shall we say … memorable days, following my surgery …" she said mischievously.
Lena laughed, and shook her head. "Well, if you're this completely in love with her now, after the rather inauspicious beginning you described last year, then I would have to say, I think you have one hell of a love story to share with me …"
"Oh, Yeah … This is definitely a story to be shared over drinks …" Olivia laughed. "There's so much you don't know, Lena, and it's all sort of intertwined," she explained; her voice turning serious.
"Well, then I think we need to arrange for those drinks sometime soon …" Lena declared. "Really. I want to hear everything …"
"Sounds like a plan …" Olivia agreed; nodding her head.
Lena drew in a deep breath, and exhaled slowly; allowing time for the gravity of the moment to wane. And as the moment lifted, a slow smile crept across her face. Olivia could literally hear it over the phone, and she braced herself for the incoming snark.
And Lena certainly didn't disappoint. "Wow. Olivia Freakin' Spencer … the one woman I could never manage to seduce … finally took a walk on the dark side …" she teased. "Welcome to my world, Spence …" she laughed.
Olivia grinned, as she thought of times past, when Lena had tried to convince her to cross over to the Land of Lesbian. "Well … I haven't quite stepped all the way in …" she sheepishly confessed. "Yet …"
Natalia blushed at the comment; burying her face in Olivia's neck.
"What do you mean?" Lena inquired; one eyebrow quirked in curiosity.
"Well … you know …" Olivia hedged. "We haven't …"
"Oh my God!" Lena exclaimed; unable to restrain her laughter. "The woman has you this completely Unhinged – and you haven't even slept with her yet?!"
God, the woman rivals Me in the Snark department, Olivia thought. "No …" she squeaked; once again bracing for the incoming snarkfest.
"Wow! What's happened to you?" Lena asked rhetorically; unable to comprehend what she was hearing. "The Olivia Spencer I know … never waits for anything …"
Olivia remained quiet for a moment, contemplating her response. "She … is so worth the wait, Lena …" she said; eyes fixed on Natalia.
"Are you sure you're just not stalling on purpose, because you don't know what the fuck you're doing?" Lena smirked, still attempting to process this new side of Olivia. "What – do you need some pointers or something, Spencer?" she laughed; thoroughly enjoying what she knew equated to Olivia's complete discomfiture.
"NO!" Olivia barked; nodding her head defiantly in an attempt to tamp down her raging denial; eliciting a soft chuckle from Natalia in the process. I don't need Pointers! I'm a fucking Master at sex! No pun intended, of course. She let out a frustrated sigh; knowing damn well she could use Lena's advice. "YES …" she grudgingly confessed; swallowing huge lumps of pride and embarrassment, as she spun in a complete one-eighty. Who am I kidding? I have no fucking Clue what I'm doing when it comes to making love with a woman – especially a woman like Natalia …
Dark eyes widened at the admission. Well, no Wonder you don't have a problem Waiting – You're as confused as I am …, Natalia realized; suddenly feeling better about her own apprehensions. She tipped Olivia's chin; deep eyes revealing her understanding of the older woman's concerns.
Olivia nodded her head; signaling that the message was received.
I love how we can have entire conversations, without saying a word …, two hearts echoed.
Lena shook her head in disbelief. "I cannot believe I'm having this conversation with you …" she stated; a devilish grin plastered on her face. "Before I met you, I was damn near virginal …"
"Bullshit, Kundera!" Olivia exclaimed; knowing full-well Lena was full of shit.
"Ahem … In case you've forgotten, Spencer …"
Olivia knew exactly where this was going – and it was a bad, bad place. Oh, Please don't go there … she thought; her mind racing so fast her mouth couldn't keep up with the thoughts, let alone form coherent words to halt the incoming calamity.
"You are the one who taught me …"
Oh, Fuck … you're totally headed there …
"… how to apply the squeeze technique ..."
If you stop right there, she won't have a clue what the fuck you're talking about … Jesus, Kundera, Please, PLEASE stop right there … she prayed; willing Lena to stop. She squirmed in her chair, as Natalia's face contorted in confusion. She wanted to scream, but the words wouldn't come.
"… to keep a guy from getting off before I did …" Lena chuckled.
Natalia's eyes popped wide open, and she nearly choked on the breath of air she had just inhaled.
I am So fucked – and Not in a good way … Olivia clamped her eyes shut and gasped; holding her breath as Lena slammed the final nail in her figurative coffin.
"How many guys did you practice on before you perfected it?"
Dead silence.
It hung in the air like a dense fog; looming on the horizon.
"Spencer?" Lena tentatively called; the tension firing through the telephone line like an electrical pulse.
Natalia pinned her with a look; her head spinning with questions that she wasn't quite certain she wanted answered.
The heat of Natalia's stare caused Olivia's face to turn crimson. Squirming against the awkwardness that hung between them, she opened and closed her mouth several times; but nothing came out.
When no response was forthcoming, Lena instinctively knew why. Drawing in a breath to steady herself, she asked, "She's … in the room – isn't she …?" already knowing the answer.
Clearing her throat, as she studied Natalia carefully, Olivia finally found her voice. "Oh, Yeah …" Olivia grunted awkwardly, "she's right here … in my lap …"
"Oh my God, Olivia – I'm so sorry …" Lena promptly apologized; feeling like a complete ass. "Why didn't you tell me she was there with you?!"
Not daring to utter another word, Olivia fidgeted restlessly, as Natalia continued staring her down; thoroughly taking pleasure in watching the older woman squirm. And then the dam broke, and she burst into laughter; "Do I even wanna know …"
"No," Olivia spit out like a shot; her head quickly ricocheting back and forth, before Natalia even finished the question.
"Didn't think so …" Natalia grinned; scrunching up her nose as she shook her head. She laughed again, and Olivia finally relaxed; a soft laugh escaping her lungs.
Natalia turned her attention to the woman on the phone; leaving Olivia to stare at her in complete disbelief. "I'm … Natalia, by the way," she greeted jovially; winking at the woman who still held her. "It's nice to meet you, Lena …"
"Hi, Natalia …" Lena greeted warmly; the younger woman's name literally flowing from that accented tongue. "It's so nice to meet you … And I do apologize if I have offended you in any way. Had I known Spence and I weren't alone, I never would have behaved like such an ill-mannered scoundrel …"
Natalia laughed. "Honestly, I'm glad you didn't know I was here. I found your banter with Olivia quite entertaining," she confessed; smiling, as she tenderly pinched the older woman's chin between her thumb and forefinger.
"Seems we've always interacted with one another with this sort of effortless sarcastic banter …" Lena informed; grinning at the thought of some of her favorite memories with her friend.
"So I gathered …" Natalia smiled.
"Yeah, once we get started, it just kinda snowballs out of control …" Olivia explained; an unspoken apology in her tone.
"Well, it's nice to see Olivia a little out of her element," Natalia said; grinning at the hotelier. "Usually, all I get around here is her browbeating the flower guy over his overpriced arrangements, arguing with the Concierge's over brochure placement, or exchanging details of shoe-shopping sprees with our banquet manager, Greg …"
"What has she done to the Concierge's, of late?" Lena inquired with a grin. "Last I heard, she threatened to impale him with a whisk if he didn't get the chef in to make her Belgian waffles at three in the morning …"
"He's under my management now, because he's scared of her … Now I know why …" Natalia said dryly; giving Olivia that look.
"Hey now … that's not even the same guy …" Olivia defended; her voice almost a whine. "The waffle and whisk guy quit years ago …"
"Is it any wonder?" Natalia said; a teasing grin on her face, as she shook her head back and forth. "Well, then what on earth did you do to this one? The poor guy quakes in his boots every time you're in the vicinity of his desk," she teased.
"Sooo … how's that baby of yours?" Olivia asked; paving the way to a new subject; lest she be the object of any further teasing between the two of them.
"Now that was smooth, Spencer …" Lena laughed; a hint of admiration in her tone at Olivia's expertly played transition from target to trailblazer. "That baby of ours … is almost five years old," she informed; grinning proudly as she glanced at the family portrait on her desk. "Jordan is just the sweetest little girl. Always smiling and laughing; those soft brown curls bouncing. So well behaved," she said proudly. "Bianca is responsible for that … She's loving, but firm … while I spoil her terribly. I'm afraid I'm a bit of a pushover with her. I just turn to complete mush with those big brown eyes peering up at me. And when the crocodile tears make their appearance – I'm a goner," she laughed. "Gosh … she was seven weeks old when Bianca and I were married …" she shared; her voice soft and wistful, as she remembered the day Bianca and Jordan legally became hers. "And now she's about to start kindergarten …"
"Oh, I remember Emma at that age …" Olivia said wistfully. "She was so full of curiosity and wonder … and she couldn't wait to ride the big girl bus …" A soft sigh escaped her lungs at the memory of her little girl, Blue's Clues backpack and Dora lunchbox in hand, boarding the school bus the first morning Olivia actually allowed her to ride it. "They grow up so fast – don't they …" she said softly; more a statement than a question.
"They do …" Lena agreed; lost for a moment in her memories. "Emma is what, almost nine now?" she recalled; her thoughts turning back to the conversation.
"She is … She's just blazing through the third grade …" Olivia smiled proudly. "She's this smart, articulate little ball of energy. Says she wants to be a business mongrel, like me …" she chuckled.
Natalia and Lena joined her in laughter.
"She's just … the most wonderful little girl in the world …" Natalia declared; the depth of her love for their daughter shining in those deep brown eyes.
"Yeah, she is …" Olivia quietly agreed; eyes locked on Natalia's, a soft, telling smile twitching at her lips. "She sees the best in everyone, and finds the joy in everything she does. I think she gets her optimism from Natalia …" she smiled.
"I think every mother feels that way …" Lena quietly interjected; reflecting upon the little blessings in her own life.
Natalia pushed Olivia's shoulder playfully. "She's your daughter …"
"Well, she didn't get that trait from me …" Olivia grinned knowingly. "And she certainly didn't get it from Phillip …"
"She gets all of her best qualities from you …" Natalia said softly; nuzzling Olivia's cheek.
"Heaven help her – eh, Spence," Lena laughed.
"I know, right …" Olivia chuckled; arching an eyebrow. "So tell me more about Bianca and Jordan …" she coaxed.
Always eager to share news of her family, Lena didn't hesitate to answer, "Well, Bianca is finishing her Masters. She should graduate next spring …"
"Oh, so she did decide to go back …" Olivia said. "I remember you e-mailing me that she was thinking about it …"
"Yes, she finally made the decision to go back about two years ago. She's taking it slowly, though, because we've made a firm commitment to put our family first," Lena shared. "And Jordan has a baby sister now, so … we're quite busy keeping up with the two of them," she smiled.
"That's wonderful, Lena. Congratulations!" Olivia offered excitedly. "What's her name? How old is she? Who does she look like?" she fired rapidly. "You know me … I want all the juicy details!"
Lena smiled; enjoying her friend's exuberance. "Well … her name is Alexandria Christine," she announced. "Alexandria after …"
"Alexander Cambias …" Olivia interjected; remembering the older man fondly.
"Yes …" Lena confirmed; smiling, as she thought about the man who had been like a father to her for nearly half her life. "And Christine after Bianca's middle name … We call her Alex … She turns one on April 16th, and she looks exactly like Bianca; though, just like with Jordan, Bianca swears Alex looks more like my child than hers …" she laughed. "Jordan is completely amazing with her. She was so excited about being a big sister, and she loves to help …"
"Who loves to help?" Bianca asked; smiling as she sauntered into Lena's office carrying Alex.
Jordan burst through the door; rushing past Bianca; the fabric of her navy blue warm-up suit rustling as she ran. "Mama!" she squealed excitedly; arms outstretched, dark brunette curls bouncing, as she raced straight for Lena.
Bianca rolled her eyes good-naturedly and smiled; knowing her question would have to wait until Jordan was finished greeting her Mama. It had always been that way between the two of them – that unmistakable mother-daughter bond. It was powerful; indestructible; and it made Bianca's heart burst with joy every time she saw them together.
"Hey, Little One!" Lena greeted; chuckling at her daughter's endless exuberance. She scooped the little girl up into her arms; a contented sigh escaping her lungs, as petite arms wrapped round her neck; hugging her with all the might a four-year-old could muster. "I missed you all day long …" she whispered against her daughter's cheek; repeating the words she said to her daughter when returning home from work every evening.
"I missed you too, Mama …" Jordan said sweetly; pecking her mother on the cheek.
When Jordan released her hold, she plopped down in Lena's lap. "Why you all the time call me Little One?" she asked in four-year-old speak; curiosity doing the calypso in those big brown eyes.
Lena looked up, meeting Bianca's eyes for a moment; then smiled down at their daughter. "Because you were the very first little one I was able to hold …" she explained softly; tapping Jordan on the nose to stave off her emotions; thoughts of the child that had been taken from her so many years ago, never far from her heart.
Instinctively knowing the emotions that were besieging Lena, Bianca slowly made her way around the desk, as Lena answered their daughter's question. Placing a comforting hand on her wife's shoulder, she leaned down. "Hi, Baby …" she whispered; kissing her softly.
"Hi, Sweetheart …" Lena quietly replied; eyes locked on Bianca's. She smiled then, "And hi to you, too, Little Bear …" she said in a sing-song voice; glancing up at her youngest daughter. Alex squealed and kicked chubby little legs excitedly, as Lena reached up, taking the baby into her arms, as well. "Aww … we're wearing Tigger and Pooh today …" she said; playfully poking at the embroidered picture on the bib of Alex's overalls; eliciting a string of giggles from the baby.
"Those oberalls used to be mine when I was the baby, but I gave them to Alex, 'cause it's 'portant to share …" Jordan informed; botching some of the words, as she worked at being grown up.
Lena smiled at her eldest daughter. "Well, I'm so proud of you for sharing," Lena acknowledged; gently pinching a rosy cheek. "You're a good big sister, Jordan," she praised.
"I know …" Jordan replied; shrugging her shoulders nonchalantly. "I love my Alex …" she said sweetly; leaning over to hug her baby sister.
Alex laid her head on Jordan's shoulder, babbling softly; and Lena and Bianca couldn't help but smile at the sweetness of the moment. Then Alex squirmed, extricating herself from Jordan's embrace, and squealed loudly; breaking the momentary silence.
"So … who's listening in on our little family moment?" Bianca grinned; tipping her head toward the flashing red light on the phone, as she perched on the edge of Lena's desk in her form-fitting designer jeans and a low-cut, sapphire sweater that offered a pleasing display of her ample cleavage.
"Oh!" Lena exclaimed; a slight blush on her cheeks. "Sorry, Spence …" she apologized with a chuckle.
"Oh, hi, Olivia!" Bianca greeted warmly. "How are you? Married any new Spauldings, of late?" she teased.
Natalia shot her a curious look. "What – have you been married to all of them?" she asked incredulously.
Bianca arched an inquisitive eyebrow at the sound of the unfamiliar voice.
Olivia shrugged her shoulders. "Might as well have been …" she smirked. "Never made it to Alan-Michael, but … I could've gotten a package deal if Gus had caught my eye a few years earlier …" she said teasingly.
Natalia made a face at her. "You're not funny …" she said flatly; but the twitching of her lips belied the seriousness of her tone.
"Then why are you stifling that grin?" she volleyed; pointedly arching an eyebrow, as those eyes pinned her with a stare.
"Who's Gus?" two voices asked in unison; jumping at the foreign name.
Olivia glanced at Natalia, offering her a knowing look. "Really long story …" she reported, "but suffice it to say, he's the reason Natalia and I met …"
Picking up on the obvious chemistry between the two women, even over the telephone, Bianca ventured into the deep. "You sound … happy, Olivia …" she surmised; the unspoken question lingering in the air.
"Well … that's 'cause I am, Bianca," Olivia grinned; knowing the dearth of information would drive the younger woman crazy. "Thanks for noticing … I hear you and Lena are quite happy, too. Congratulations on the newest addition to the family … and on being so close to finishing that Masters Degree," she said; a laudatory cadence in her voice, even as she reveled in tormenting the woman.
"Thanks, Olivia," Bianca smiled; disappointed by the hotelier's lack of divulgence. "Life is definitely busy … but it's never been better …"
"Hey, Spence, I'm actually glad you called …" Lena said; shifting a squirming Alex in her arms. The baby babbled, and smiled up at her mother. "I've been meaning to give you a buzz …"
"Yeah? About what?" Olivia inquired.
"Well, Bianca and I made a new acquisition recently …"
"What – did you raid Enchantment, and take it away from Erica?" Olivia laughed.
"No …" Lena laughed softly; shaking her head, "but I do have a seat on the Board over there, now that I've passed all of Mama Kane's tests …"
"I'll bet she gave you a run for your money …" Olivia grinned.
"You have no idea …" Lena chuckled. "But I deserved it …" she admitted; more than willing to own up to her past mistakes. "And truthfully, she's been a model mother-in-law and a wonderful grandmother to all of her grandchildren …"
"All of her grandchildren?" Olivia said incredulously. "It's hard enough to imagine Erica Kane as a grandmother, at all – let alone, having a whole gaggle of grandbabies," she laughed.
"Well … she's at four grandchildren, and counting …" Bianca interjected; smiling as she considered the validity of Olivia's argument.
"Bianca's sister, Kendall, is married to Alexander's oldest son," Lena reported. "You do remember Alex, Jr. – don't you?" she grinned; knowing full-well that Olivia wouldn't soon forget the Junior Cambias heir.
Olivia's breath caught in her chest, the past gripping her in its malevolent clutches at the mention of the handsome, debonair young man she once knew. But, Olivia being Olivia, she pushed the memories and their corresponding emotions aside, and responded with biting sarcasm. "Yes, Smartass … I remember Alex …" she replied. "How could I ever forget …?" she snapped; knowing Lena wouldn't really understand the intensity of her response. But much as she tried to morph the intense feeling of loss, into anger, she couldn't deny her true emotions, and her expression turned serious again. "I thought …" she exhaled; closing her eyes, steeling herself against the painful memories.
"That he had been murdered?" Lena quietly interjected; knowing the confusing emotions that must be rushing through her friend at the moment.
"Yes …" Olivia said somberly. "I-I don't … I don't understand …" she stammered; her mind engaged in an incessant whirling of questions.
Natalia felt the sharp shift in Olivia's emotions, and she regarded the hotelier carefully. Who is this man, and why are you so affected by this news? "Olivia?" she quietly queried; leaving the open-ended question dangling in the air.
Olivia just shook her head; unable to respond under the gravity of the moment.
Natalia relented; remaining patiently quiet, as Olivia's exchange with Lena continued.
Sensing the weight of her friend's emotions, Lena's demeanor quickly shifted. "Olivia, I'm so sorry …" she said regretfully. "I should've been more sensitive, given your history with him …"
"No … It's … it's okay, Lena," Olivia quietly reassured; her eyes fluttering closed as the memories rushed through her mind. "That was a lifetime ago …"
Searching the hotelier's face, Natalia's heart ached for her. Instinctively, she knew they had inadvertently stumbled into something significant from Olivia's past; and she was powerless to offer comfort at the moment. She reached out, gently caressing the hotelier's cheek. Whatever this is, Olivia, you've Got to talk to me …, she silently beseeched.
"Look, I'm sure you want to know what happened, but it's a long story, Spence, and I can't really get into it right now …" Lena explained. "Suffice it to say, he's very much alive, but … we can't let anyone know who he really is …" she said mysteriously.
Olivia's eyes welled up with unspent tears. "Why didn't you tell me he was alive, Lena?" she sighed heavily; her heart aching with an amalgam of relief and renewed grief. "How long have you known?"
"Awhile," Lena confessed; purposely not divulging any further information. "Like I said … It's a long story …"
Olivia ached to know the story behind Alex's reappearance; needed to know the truth, but she knew by the tone in Lena's voice that the subject shouldn't be broached at the moment. So she did what she does best – she brushed off her emotions, and deflected with humor. "Is he still as hot as he was twenty years ago?" she grinned.
Natalia raised an eyebrow at the comment; giving Olivia that look. How do you Do that?! How do you shift from tears to sarcasm without flinching? I Know you're in Pain, and yet, in no more than a nanosecond, you're pretending to be completely fine …
Years of deflection and denial – I've turned it into an art form, Sweetheart …, Olivia silently answered; literally reading the confusion and question in Natalia's eyes. She grinned at the unspoken question then; enjoying the fact that she still held some mystery for Natalia, despite the emotional rollercoaster she was on at the moment.
"Yes – he's as handsome as ever; and his children are absolutely beautiful …" Lena replied; casting a knowing smile at Bianca.
Olivia drew in a deep breath, and exhaled slowly; stilling the rampant emotions that churned within her. "So Kendall and Alex have two children?" she deduced.
"Well, first of all, Alex goes by the name Zach Slater now … And yes, he and Kendall have two beautiful little boys together …" she explained. "There's more to the story, but … I'll leave the sordid details for that promised evening of drinks …"
"Good, Lord," Olivia chortled; shaking her head, "your life sounds like a fucking soap opera …"
"That's the understatement of the year …" Lena chuckled.
"So you were saying something about a new acquisition?" Olivia reminded.
"Oh, yes …" Lena replied; returning her thoughts to business. "Bianca and I purchased the Valley Inn here in Pine Valley not too long ago," she informed. "It was a total steal, and … after deciphering the mess in the financials, we realized why … Anyway, I know your business plan for the Beacon has been hugely successful, so I wanted to consult with you. Maybe take a look at the details of your operating plan, and get some advice from the Master Hotelier …" she added; successfully feeding Olivia's ego.
The tips of Olivia's mouth turned up; forming a shrewd grin. "Oh … I think we can strike up a deal …" she said; the teasing inflection in her voice giving her away.
"Ahh … so now we're getting to down to the impetus for your call …" Lena joked. "So what's on your agenda, Spence?" she asked casually.
Olivia laughed jovially. "You know me too well, Kundera …." she said. "Emma and I wanna take Natalia to the beach during Spring Break …" she reported. "And …"
"And … you're wondering if you might borrow the cottage for the week?" Lena grinned knowingly.
"How 'bout it?" Olivia asked; already knowing the answer.
"Oh, I think we can work something out …" Lena said; a teasing lilt to her accented voice. "When is Emma's break?"
Natalia reached over to Olivia's desk; moving her computer mouse. With one click, she opened Outlook and checked their calendar. "Looks like … April 25th through May 3rd," she informed.
Lena looked up, meeting Bianca's eyes; transmitting her thoughts directly to her wife. Bianca smiled; her head bouncing up and down, as she excitedly offered her consent.
"That's actually perfect, Spence," Lena announced. "Bianca and I are flying out to the Cape on the 11th, and we're planning to stay until the 26th to celebrate Jordan and Alex's birthdays," she explained. "Why don't the three of you fly out the evening of the 24th, and spend the weekend with us," she suggested. "We can have those drinks we talked about … fill in the rest of the gaps from the past few years … and formulate a business plan for the Inn …"
Olivia glanced at Natalia, wordlessly asking the question; and Natalia raised an eyebrow, nodding her acquiescence.
"Oh … that would be amazing, Lena," Olivia declared; having received the go-ahead. "Listen, drop me an e-mail with the Inn's financials for the past couple of years," she directed. "I'll look them over, and make some preliminary notes before the trip, so we have a jumpstart on the plan …"
"Will do …" Lena agreed. "Thank you," she said appreciatively.
"No … thank you …" Olivia replied. "With all the drama here in Springfield, we really need a vacation …" she sighed. "It'll be great to see the two of you again … and I'm looking forward to introducing you both to Natalia, and to meeting your girls …"
"We're looking forward to seeing you, and meeting Natalia, as well," Lena replied. "I'll drop you those financials by day's end, and we'll talk details for the trip soon …"
"Sounds good," Olivia agreed; pleased with the outcome of their call.
And after a jovial round of goodbyes, they terminated the call.
Bianca grinned devilishly. "Okay … who is Natalia?" she inquired; arching that trademark eyebrow in curiosity.
"Oh, you are not going to believe this …" Lena replied with a teasing grin.
Natalia extricated herself from Olivia's lap, slowly pacing back and forth, as she chewed on her finger; her mind swimming in unanswered questions. She instantly liked these women, sight unseen; but still, she was confused by so many things.
Olivia watched her intently; wondering what she was thinking, but she said not a word.
Finally, turning to Olivia, Natalia spoke. "I really … like your friends," she admitted; but still, there was something in her tone that Olivia couldn't quite decipher.
"I-I like them, too," Olivia said cautiously; still trying to get a read on the Latina's tumultuous state of mind.
The incessant questions churned in her head, and Natalia furrowed her brow as she met Olivia's gaze. "I don't know whether to hug you … or scream at you, right now …"
Olivia regarded the younger woman carefully, "I … I don't understand what's wrong …" she said tentatively; knowing that one misplaced word could negatively skew the entire conversation. "Are … are you … frustrated? Confused? Pissed?"
"All of the above …" Natalia sighed. "That, and … hurt …" she confessed. "Why didn't you tell me you had lesbian friends?" she asked; confused by Olivia's lack of disclosure, an amalgam of curiosity and frustration overtaking her. Her voice raising an octave, matching the crescendo of emotions as she turned angry, she continued, "And … why didn't you talk to them when you were confused about your feelings for me – instead of confiding in that wretched Doris Wolfe?" she accused; angered by Olivia's choice, given the facts that were now on the table.
And then she thought about the man whose mere mention caused Olivia's entire demeanor to change. "And most importantly of all … Who is Alex Cambias, Jr. – and why did you seem so flustered to learn that he was alive?" she asked quietly; anger dissolving into tears.
Jesus, have you gone bi-polar on me, Natalia? Olivia thought; marveling at the rapidly shifting emotions she was witnessing in the younger woman. She shook her head, and waited for the next wave of emotion to emerge.
"Start talking, Olivia …" Natalia said coolly.
And in that moment, an unexpected freezing rain began to pelt against the office windows; the dance turning dark and stormy, as Olivia just sat there, stock still; staring at Natalia – not really knowing where to start, or what to say …
TBC …
Additional Disclaimers: The characters of Lena Kundera, Bianca Montgomery, Erica Kane, Zach and Kendall Slater, and Alexander Cambias, Jr. and Sr. are owned by All My Children, ABC/Disney. No copyright infringement intended with regard to AMC, ABC, Disney or any other entity.
In the alternate Pine Valley universe I created in my story Restoration, Alexander Cambias, Sr. was not the evil beast portrayed on AMC. I absolutely adore the actor who created the role, and wanted to use the character in a positive way, so I made him an ally and father figure to Lena. This story crosses over into Restoration territory, and thus, the characterizations of these AMC characters follow that which I have created, rather than AMC cannon. Just wanted to let y'all know …