Confessions Lead to Strange Bedfellows Chapter 11 RuminationsSultry Theme P II, a guiding light fanfic

Title: Confessions Lead to Strange Bedfellows

Author: Kimberly21570

Fandoms: Guiding Light / All My Children

Pairings: Olivia and Natalia / Lena and Bianca

Disclaimer: The characters of Olivia and Emma Spencer, Natalia and Rafe Rivera, Gus/Nicky Aitoro, Josh Lewis, Mel Boudreau, Frank Cooper, and Jeffrey O'Neill are owned by CBS/TeleNext and Proctor & Gamble. The characters of Lena Kundera, Bianca Montgomery, and Alexander Cambias, Jr. are owned by All My Children, ABC/Disney and Prospect Park. Guitar Hero is the joint property of RedOctane, Harmonix Music Systems, and Activision.

No copyright infringement intended with regard to Guiding Light, CBS/TeleNext, Proctor & Gamble, AMC, ABC/Disney, Prospect Park, RedOctane, Harmonix Music Systems, Activision, or any other entity. With the exception of a brief mention of the "Dinner with Decker" episode from 11.14.2008, and a bit of dialogue from the 5.19.2009 episode, the dialogue, settings, and story content in these scenes are original. Written for fun, not profit. All other standard disclaimers apply.

Just an FYI: In the spirit of complete honesty, there are portions of this update that may seem familiar to those of you who have read my Otalia one-shot about their "first time." Those portions were originally written for this story, and were always intended to be included in this chapter. The one-shot was merely a "sneak-peek" at this chapter for those of you who had been waiting so patiently for some Otalia lovin'…

Thanks to my pal, MoniRod for the edit. You totally Rock, Woman! I appreciate you, and I owe you—BIG TIME!

Rating: Chapter 11 is rated seriously NC-17…

WARNING: THOUGH NEITHER PROLONGED, NOR OVERTLY GRATUITOUS, THERE ARE CANDID REFERENCES TO MALE GENITALIA AND PREVIOUS SEXUAL ENCOUNTERS WITH MEN IN THIS UPDATE. THE REFERENCES ARE GERMAIN TO THE CONTEXT OF A "PRESENT TIME" DISCUSSION, AS WELL AS TO SCENES THAT ARE PLANNED FOR A FUTURE UPDATE. WHILE I MAKE NO APOLOGIES FOR MY CREATIVE CHOICES, I HAVE INCLUDED THIS WARNING OUT OF RESPECT FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO MAY FEEL SUCH CANDOR IS UNNECESSARY. IF THIS IS LIKELY TO OFFEND YOU, PLEASE PROCEED WITH CAUTION.

Hope you all enjoy!

Kimberly

Confessions Lead to Strange Bedfellows

"Love shared between women is potent and powerful… Embrace its arousing erotic sweetness, its pleasure, its truth… There is no more intimate or life affirming connection… This love is as vital as each breath drawn, and composes the essence of who I truly am…"

— Unknown

Chapter 11.2 – Ruminations on a Sultry Theme:

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Morgan-Jackson Household—11:30 a.m. Central Daylight Time

With the breakfast hour long past, Jen and Tracy found themselves being stared down by a rather cantankerous cat. He whipped his coal-black tail with practiced disdain, as he glared at them from his perch on the sunlit window seat. Laughing, Tracy sat up, tucking the top sheet around her breasts. The neighbor boy across the street didn't need a peep show, if he happened to be looking their way. "I think he's plotting our demise."

"Yeah, well he can carry it out later." Jen reached for Tracy, pulling her back down onto their makeshift bed, "'Cause I'm not finished with you yet…"

Tracy allowed Jen to kiss her, thoroughly.

When Jen's stealthy hand found its way beneath the sheet, Tracy teasingly retreated. "Later—," she declared with another kiss, this one quick. "We need to get going. Someone promised me a ring today," she said in a flirty tone, as she shimmied out from beneath Jen's body.

"Indeed, someone did," Jen smiled. "And she intends to make good on it."

Leaning close, Tracy kissed her once more. "Glad to hear it," she murmured. "Now, why don't you go start the shower, while I feed our cranky little prince," she suggested.

"You know if we shower together, it'll take three times as long." Jen's voice was low and sultry, as she spoke the truth they both knew well.

Dark eyes twinkled and a devilish grin twitched, as Tracy leaned in with a playful kiss. "But oh, what fun it'll be... Water sports with you are my favorite," she whispered seductively.

Jen's breath caught in her chest, and she grinned, blue eyes flashing with anticipation. Three years of nearly constant togetherness and still, she couldn't get enough of this incredible woman. "Mine too," she said, as she remembered evenings spent playing with her in that heated Roman tub. And oh, the things they had done in that shower.

"Be back in five." An anticipatory grin, and another quick peck on the lips, and Tracy was on her feet, headed toward the bedroom door; Mozart hot on her heels, making his presence known. Once past the line of the windows, she cast a sexy grin over her shoulder, and dropped the sheet, knowing that Jen would be watching her ass as she walked.

Jen did not disappoint.

By the time they emerged from their bedroom, showered and dressed, they were both sated and starving. After declaring so each to the other, with one glance, they both knew where they were going: their favorite bistro—a quaint family-owned place on the south side of town. They shared no words, only smiles and kisses, as Tracy snatched her car keys from their place on the countertop, and Jen followed her out the door; their fingers intertwined.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—12:15 p.m. Central Daylight Time

That old quilt having fallen to the floor beside them, Natalia watched as Olivia slept, once again marveling at what a breathtaking woman God had created for her. It was something that she found herself doing quite often since they'd been together. Only now, she didn't have to wonder at the lushness of curves and valleys hidden beneath clothing that teased—she could see every inch of Olivia's body. And what a sight it was to behold. Those perfectly chiseled features—that angled jaw and perfectly defined cheekbones, the slope of her nose, and that flawless skin. And God, those eyes that flashed with such passion, and swirled with smoky desire! And that was just her beautiful face.

Her body was another matter entirely. Toned, muscular thighs that rippled and quivered when Olivia came for her. That tight abdomen that still felt so soft, so yielding beneath Natalia's hands. Those biceps that bulged as Olivia lifted herself over Natalia's body, thrusting against her. Perfect breasts, so soft and creamy, with nipples that always seemed to beckon to her. Oh, how she loved the way they pebbled beneath her touch; so rigid, aching to be kissed. And that soft patch of hair at the delta between toned thighs, only slightly darker than chestnut, and perfectly manicured. If she closed her eyes, she could still feel her fingers sifting through it, delving beneath to the warm, wet wonder of Olivia's most intimate places.

Olivia excited her, in ways she never even knew existed. And again, Olivia had sated her—in ways she never could've even dreamed, and God help her, she wanted more. She understood fully now, the intense desire that simmered behind those smoldering jade eyes when she would catch Olivia staring at her. That same desire now simmered deep within her own being, as her eyes traveled the length of Olivia's gorgeous body. She equated the urgent need to touch Olivia, to be inside her, to spend every waking moment exploring her, to something akin to lust, and she wondered at the sinfulness of it. But then she considered the depth of her love for this woman, and that far outweighed any lustful thoughts. Suspended somewhere between love and lust, where every moment felt like blissful eternity, Natalia had never felt more fulfilled.

She remembered Olivia's hands on her body as they showered together. Fingers clenched tightly in her hair, pulling her head back, exposing her neck to Olivia's avid mouth and tongue, teeth nipping her throat and shoulder. The length of Olivia's body pressed against her from behind, as she braced her hands against the shower wall. Soapy hands caressing her breasts, and teasing between her legs, slipping deep inside her, making her come. Natalia's entire body had quaked in the most intense climax, her knees threatening to buckle, and Olivia grabbed her around the waist, holding her steady as she brought her to another shattering orgasm. And then she took her back to bed, and did it all over again.

Back in the present, Natalia focused on the movement of her fingers against Olivia's downy-soft mound. She hadn't even realized she was touching her, but once her focus shifted there, she remembered the moment she first tasted the essence of her—that splendid salty-sweet, with the slightest hint of citrus, and something else Natalia couldn't quite identify. And God, she was so wet, so velvety soft, and her clit was so hot as it quivered against Natalia's tongue. Just the memory of it made Natalia's body wet with arousal, as she felt herself growing hard again.

Olivia stirred beneath Natalia's gentle, yet insistent touch, a bliss-filled smile fluttering across her lips. Releasing a contented sigh, she opened herself up to Natalia's touch, thoroughly enjoying the light stimulation. The woman knew exactly how to touch her.

Accepting the invitation, gently, Natalia stroked her, reveling in the velvety wetness between Olivia's thighs. She focused on the sensations beneath her fingertips, the heat, and the textures, and the delightful quivering.

Olivia moaned in response. She wanted more, but she didn't chase after it. She wanted Natalia to bring her to it. "If this is gonna be my new wake-up call, I might have to start getting up earlier," she said on a throaty whisper.

"In hopes of prolonging your pleasure?" Natalia suggested.

A low chuckle fell from smirking lips, as one eyelid opened, causing a brow to arch. "You read my mind."

"It's rather transparent when you're this turned on," Natalia noted casually, her fingers never stopping that teasing caress.

"I've been this way for you for over a year now," Olivia confessed, both eyes now searching Natalia's face.

"That long, huh?" Natalia sounded both amused and intrigued.

"You were driving me crazy," Olivia declared on a gasp.

"Driving you crazy, was I?" Natalia flirted, as her caress continued.

"Ooh, right there… Yeah…," Olivia murmured, as Natalia's fingers found all the right places. "Mm… Every time we had an argument, I had to go home and, uh… take care of business."

Natalia smirked. "You must've been a very busy girl."

"You have no idea," Olivia said in a dry tone that drew a deep laugh from Natalia.

"Don't laugh," Olivia grumped. "If I were a man, I swear I would've been out lifting cars."

Skillful fingers came to an abrupt halt. Dark brows knit together, a scowl creasing Natalia's face as she pursed her lips. "What does that mean, lifting cars?" she asked. "Nicky said that to me all the time in high school. I never understood what he meant." She didn't sound happy.

Balking at the interruption of her pleasure, Olivia gruffly explained, "When guys are horny and you won't get them off, they say they have to lift cars to relieve the ache in their balls."

"Olivia!" A light smack on the arm accompanied her name, as Natalia's face contorted. "That's disgusting."

Amused, Olivia didn't do a very good job of holding the smirk from her lips. "Well, you did ask!"

"I should know better by now," Natalia said, drolly.

"Yes, you should," Olivia teasingly agreed. Her lips against Natalia's mouth, she nipped lightly, as she determinedly moved Natalia's hand back where it belonged. "Now, can we get back to what you were doing? I was almost there…"

Damn, her voice was alluring! But Natalia resisted. "Later…" she declared, playfully pushing at Olivia's shoulder. "We still haven't eaten breakfast yet," she observed, as a determined hand skimmed her belly.

"Yes, we have," Olivia murmured into Natalia's neck, her lips making their way higher. "We just haven't eaten food…" She stressed the missing substance.

Natalia released a low chuckle. "You're so bad."

Persistent fingers found their mark, stroking. "Mm… And you're so hard again," Olivia purred against Natalia's ear.

"I'm beginning to think it's a permanent condition," Natalia said on a throaty groan. It wasn't a complaint.

"I could totally get down with that," Olivia purred, her tongue filling Natalia's mouth, as her fingers filled other places.

And groaning out her pleasure, Natalia willingly fell under Olivia's spell, breakfast once again forgotten.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Out and About in Springfield—12:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time

It was a beautiful springtime afternoon in Springfield. The rains had washed away the pollen and other allergens that tended to accumulate this time of year, simultaneously ushering in a slight cool front, making it the perfect day to ride with the top down. The breeze felt refreshing against their faces, and Jen and Tracy laughed together as they sang along with the radio—loudly, and horrendously off-key.

Twenty minutes later, Tracy was navigating the car into a parking spot near their destination. Cutting the engine, she left the top down, and hopped over the side. She felt Jen's intent gaze on her, as she made her way to the passenger side.

Smirking, she opened Jen's door. "Were you seriously checking out my ass again?" She sounded amused.

"Sorry, Babe," Jen said, without a shred of remorse in her tone, as she exited the vehicle, "but your ass in those jeans is just…" She puckered her lips, pressed her fingertips against them, and made an exaggerated kissing sound, as she flung them outward, then added, "Bellissima!" in a perfect Italian accent.

Laughing, Tracy reached for her, pulling her firmly against her own body. "You're starting to sound like Uncle Carlo." She kicked the car door closed with her foot.

"Oh, God," Jen said, trepidation in her tone.

"I meant your enthusiastic cadence, not your pitch," Tracy chuckled.

"Whew!" Jen exhaled, feigning intense relief. "I love your uncle, but…"

"You don't wanna sound like an old Italian guy?" Tracy said, teasingly.

"Well…" She let Tracy come to her own conclusions.

Nuzzling against Jen's ear, Tracy purred, "Trust me, there's no chance of that. You're far too young and beautiful."

Jen quirked an eyebrow. "So are saying that could change when I get old and ugly?"

"Oh, stop that!" Tracy fussed. "I'm saying my fiancée is one Hot Mama," she grinned. She loved the way the word 'fiancée' felt on her lips. "And I don't see that changing—ever."

Arms encircling Tracy's neck, Jen kissed her, full on the mouth. She didn't care that they were out in public—no way were Preston Morgan and his custody suit going to steal the freedom they had found. "Well, you know, my fiancée is one hot little Mama, herself," she grinned. "I can't wait to put a ring on her finger…"

"Mm… neither can I," Tracy murmured against Jen's mouth. And her arm remained firmly around Jen's waist as they made their way toward the restaurant just down the street.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—1:15 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Lying in each other's arms after making love, their bodies felt like pieces of a puzzle, the way they fit together so seamlessly. Olivia relished the sensation of having Natalia's naked form pressed so closely against her. She brushed her lips against the sweat-dampened tendrils that teased at Natalia's temple, and then closed her eyes, simply allowing her thoughts to take her away.

Despite the hours that had lapsed, the warmth of shaky breath against her center right before Natalia tasted her for the first time, still lingered on Olivia's body. As did the memory of finally losing herself completely to this woman who loved her so deeply, so passionately, so perfectly.

Her mind lingered on the memory of Natalia's mouth against her skin, that subtle yet sensuous way she licked and nibbled at her inner thighs—testing the waters, just teetering at the edge of teasing. She was certain Natalia hadn't a clue as to how crazy she was driving her with that, but Olivia didn't care. It was also clear that Natalia was enjoying the experience of learning Olivia's body. And for that, Olivia would have endured the torturous teasing as long as necessary. But thanks to Natalia's perceptiveness when it came to Olivia, the torture had been relatively short-lived.

"Why are you holding back from me?" Natalia sounded concerned, and maybe a little hurt. "And don't tell me that you aren't, because I can feel you struggling for control." Admittedly, she hadn't a clue as to how a woman's body was supposed to feel when you kissed and suckled her down there, but… she knew Olivia well, and she could feel the tension simmering deep within in her body.

Those pleading eyes, gazing up at her, nearly broke Olivia's heart. Reaching down to her, Olivia tenderly cupped her cheek. "Oh, Sweetheart, I'm not holding back from you, I'm holding back for you," she whispered, emphasizing the 'from' and 'for' parts.

"What?" Surprised, Natalia blinked. "Why?"

"Because I can see how much you're enjoying yourself," Olivia answered honestly. "You love touching me, and I wanna give that to you. I don't want to rush the experience for you." A roguish grin teased at her lips. "And believe me, it's not a selfless gesture—I'm enjoying it too."

Slowly, Natalia crawled up Olivia's body. Their mouths met in a deep, sensual kiss that left Olivia breathless and lightheaded.

"I am enjoying this with you," Natalia admitted with quiet insistence, kisses turning to whispers. "Very much so…" She found Olivia's gaze, and brushed errant strands of chestnut from her face affectionately. "But I want all of you."

"Sweetheart, you have all of me. I'm completely yours." Olivia emphasized Natalia's ownership of her.

"No, I don't," Natalia benignly disagreed. "I know how passionate you are, Olivia. It's one of the things I love most about you. And as wonderful as tonight has been, I know you're holding most of it back from me. Please don't do that," she implored. "I want all of you—your uninhibited passion included. Contrary to what you might think, I'm not afraid that it's too much for me."

Briefly, Olivia's mouth connected with Natalia's again. And then she found Natalia's gaze, as her fingertips lightly brushed against her cheek. "You never cease to amaze me," she whispered. The expression in her eyes was sheer awe. "I really need to stop underestimating you."

"Yes, you do," Natalia said, with that unique blend of gentle firmness that was so genuinely her. Boldly, she parted Olivia's thighs, planting herself on her knees between them. She leaned down, her nipples teasing Olivia's as their mouths connected in another sensual kiss. They were both hyper-aware of the sensation, their breath catching in unison. "Now, make love to me Olivia. Make love to me like you mean it—no holding back…"

Natalia's gentle, yet impassioned plea was all Olivia needed to unleash the full force of her pent-up desire. Capturing that willing mouth in a kiss that could only be described as scorching, Olivia quickly dispensed with all pretenses, and took Natalia with more passion than even she was aware she possessed.

Rolling Natalia beneath her, swiftly, she found her, drawing her most intimate flesh deep into her avid, wide mouth. Hungrily, she suckled her, pulling a mixture of throaty groans, and yesses, and please don't stops, from deep in Natalia's lungs. It didn't take long before Natalia was releasing into her mouth, as she cried out, invoking God, and praising the glorious handiwork of her impassioned lover.

The experience completely shattered any of Natalia's remaining inhibitions, and the moment she regained control of her own movement, she had taken Olivia with equal fervor. And Olivia had willingly allowed it. Dropping her guard in a way that she never had with anyone else, she gave herself over to their mutual desire, allowing Natalia to ravage her body, to own her soul. With the fingers of one hand tightened in Natalia's tangle of wild curls, and the others gripping the bed sheets with enough force to shred them, Olivia came, long and hard, quaking in Natalia's mouth, as she poured out her passion for the woman who loved her.

And then she was crying, and Natalia was holding her, rocking her, pressing tender kisses against her sweat-dampened temple, as she whispered to her, telling her how much she loved her and needed her. And finally, the tears abated, and Olivia was gazing into those deep mahogany eyes with the clarity of a woman who now fully understood the infinite power of that indelible connection. Nothing else would ever compare.

The sensation of Natalia's warm breath against her skin brought Olivia back to the present. Snuggling closer, she nuzzled into Natalia's neck. Breathing her in deeply, she reveled in that familiar scent of honeysuckle and vanilla. "Mm… you always smell like springtime and cookies," she whispered.

"Cookies, huh?" Natalia's voice held a hint of amusement, before it turned sultry. "Were you planning to eat me?"

Olivia smirked. Natalia had no idea how apropos that question was—or perhaps she did. Olivia truly did need to stop underestimating the woman. "The thought did cross my mind."

Soft lips skimmed Olivia's nipple, causing it to tighten. "What would it take to turn thoughts into actions?"

Breath caught, and a soft groan drifted. "That's a promising start right there…"

And indeed, it was…

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Out and About in Springfield—1:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Nestled amongst eclectic coffee houses, trendy shops, and other eateries, in the bustling business district, the bistro had been an unexpected find for Jen and Tracy, as they window-shopped along South Sixth Street one evening during the early days of their courtship. They had been frequent patrons, both alone and with the boys, since that time, and had come to know the owners well. And now, lauded as the only restaurant between Chicago and St. Louis that offered true fondue dining, the bistro, with its warm atmosphere and intimate setting, was the perfect place for a private celebration of their engagement.

Settling into the secluded corner booth where they normally sat when dining alone, they ordered their usual fare—not that they actually had to order anything; their server knew what they wanted without even asking. One of the perks of dining in familiar locals.

Even in mid-afternoon, candlelight flickered, bathing their table in its delicate glow. The tiered centerpiece was exquisite—a pillar candle, set in a glass pedestal, surrounded by water, and accented with crystalline pebbles the color of garnets. The dancing light reflected against the deep, rich color of the glass, casting a soft roseate glow across the pristine white tablecloth. Votive candles in matching pedestals encased the focal point, adding ambient light to the romantic setting.

The soft lighting brought out the natural highlights in Tracy's hair, as it framed her face, cascading down her shoulders. Jen couldn't resist moving closer. The black leather of the wrap-around bench made for a smooth glide, and enveloping her fiancée in her arms, she nuzzled against her ear. "You always look so beautiful in the candlelight," she whispered.

A light blush colored Tracy's cheeks. Jen's compliments still made her feel giddy. "Thank you." Lightly, their mouths came together, lingering, as Tracy's fingertips gently touched Jen's face. "I love you," she breathed against Jen's parting lips, before accepting the invitation to deepen their kiss.

Their waiter, a lanky young man with reddish-brown hair and sparkling green eyes, came by with fresh ice water, hot seasoned bread, and dipping sauce—a staple served with every dinner. He paid no mind to the show of intimacy between them, politely excusing himself, with a promise to return soon with their wine—the house red.

Tracy smiled, and kissed Jen again, briefly, this time. And then they were talking about everyday things—the color scheme for planting summer annuals, rose bushes that needed to be pruned, plans for an herb garden in the back yard—all things they would do together. By the time they had decided on soft pink "new wave" petunias, lavender phlox, and deep purple pansies, the first course of their dinner had arrived.

Ordinarily, the full fondue experience wasn't offered in the afternoon, but Jen and Tracy always garnered special treatment—another sweet perk of knowing the proprietors. They were lavished with a wonderful three-cheese fondue with French, rye, and wheat breads with apple wedges as an appetizer, as well as their choice of salads—they both chose the house specialty.

As they indulged their voracious appetites, their conversation continued with the subject of the herb garden. In the past, they had always obtained their fresh herbs from Grandma Rosie's garden, where Tracy had learned her gardening skills. Missing the experience of working with the soil, tending to the plants, and harvesting the reward, Tracy had made an executive decision that this year they would plant their own. Jen had been more than enthusiastic about the idea, as she enjoyed the occasional foray into the garden when visiting with Grandma Rosie.

Then the main course arrived—tenderloin of beef, breast of chicken, and an assortment of fresh vegetables, all prepared in a communal pot of broth right at their table, and served with a variety of sauces for dipping. They took their time, talking and laughing, as they enjoyed the experience of cooking together at their table. The red wine was smooth, the main course delectable, and they found themselves relaxed and happy by the end of the main entrée.

Finally, dessert arrived—a rich caramel fondue set aflame with white rum, and rich chocolate flamed with orange liqueur, served with bananas, apples, strawberries, oranges, pound cake, chocolate wafers, and marshmallows for roasting and dipping. They took turns feeding one another, sharing sweet kisses between each scrumptious morsel. And when they were finished, they declared the feast perfection. Sharing a few more leisurely kisses, they paid the bill, and made their way back toward the car.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—2:15 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"Liv?" Natalia's voice was soft, tentative.

"Hmm?" Olivia murmured, brushing her lips against Natalia's temple as she snuggled close to her under that old quilt. They had finally eaten what amounted to lunch, rather than breakfast—and then they had eaten, well, something else. Again. And it was just as decadent the second and third time around, Olivia mused with a contented smirk.

"Uh… that thing we, um… that thing we just did?"

"Yeah?" Olivia said, cautiously. Natalia didn't need to specify what 'thing.' Olivia knew. Oh, God, did she know! What she had yet to decide was whether it was more satisfying to give, or to receive. She issued a silent prayer that she would have many more opportunities to decide, as she gently tipped Natalia's chin, searching her eyes. "Are you having regrets?" she asked softly, concerned. "Natalia, I'm so sorry… I shouldn't have…"

Taken aback by Olivia's reaction, Natalia blinked. "Olivia, stop! Okay?" she insisted.

Silenced, Olivia looked at her with remorseful eyes.

Gently, Natalia caressed Olivia's cheek. "I don't regret anything we've shared," she declared. "That was just… Wow!" She couldn't help but smile, as she remembered how wonderful Olivia's mouth and tongue had felt, teasing her, loving her. Or how incredibly gratifying it was to feel Olivia's body clutching around her tongue, as she released into Natalia's mouth. 'Wow' didn't even begin to cover it, and she hated that she couldn't be more articulate. "It was even better than the first few times," she said, with a bashful grin.

Olivia smiled in response. "Whew!" she laughed. "You had me worried there for a second."

Natalia turned in her arms, propping up on one elbow, her upper body lying half on top of Olivia. Leaning down, she skimmed her mouth against Olivia's lips. "You don't ever have to worry about that," she reassured. "I told you, I want everything with you—in bed, and out."

The expression of such complete trust made Olivia's heart soar. A single fingertip brushed across Natalia's lower lip. "Then tell me what's wrong," she gently encouraged.

Silence ensued, as Natalia sought words. "I just… I wondered, um…" She closed her eyes, and sighed. "Did you ever…" God this was hard, but she had to know. "Did you ever do that with… with Gus?"

Heart lurching in her chest, it was Olivia's turn to be taken aback. "What?" She couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"Please, Liv, don't make me say it again," Natalia begged.

Olivia was shaking her head, as she planted her hands on the sofa, sliding her body from beneath Natalia. "No, Sweetheart!" she adamantly denied, as she sat there, completely exposed to Natalia's gaze. "No, I never… I can't believe… Oh, my God, you don't know…"

She was making absolutely no sense, and Natalia just stared at her. Perplexed.

Taking Natalia's face firmly in her hands, she met her gaze squarely. "Listen to me, okay?" she said, insistently.

Natalia nodded her acquiescence.

"I never slept with Gus. Not once." Olivia's tone was resolute. She could understand why Natalia might have thought otherwise, once upon a time. But not now. Not after all they had been through together. "I tried to seduce him. I won't lie to you about that, Natalia," she said, with brutal honestly; hating herself for the fact that it was true. "But he wouldn't. I tried everything I could think of… God, that's too much information. I'm sorry. I—" She looked positively stricken. "You have to know, Honey, you have to believe me when I tell you that Gus was never unfaithful to you. Not in his heart, not with his body. Not ever."

Olivia's thoughts turned to the myriad times she had tried to seduce him—each time more doggedly than the time previous. She remembered how far out of control she had been that final time—and how the sheer force of his willpower had finally convinced her that he truly loved Natalia, and that he would never be unfaithful to her.

Returning her focus to Natalia, she studied her as the thoughts and emotions splayed across her face, one right after the next—confusion, wonder, enlightenment, relief, and back to confusion again. "What is it, Natalia?" she gently coaxed. She moved closer. "What makes you think I did that with Gus?"

Weighing her words, Natalia tentatively began an explanation. "He came home one afternoon, and I knew he had come straight from you, because I could smell your perfume the minute he walked through the door," she said. "He barely even said a word to me, and he was kissing me. Hard. He had never kissed me that way before, and… his kisses tasted… different… The taste made me feel funny inside."

God, Natalia sounded so young, so innocent, and Olivia was reminded of how different their sexual histories were, and how jaded she had allowed herself to become after Jeffrey and Alex. It made her feel sad for the young, innocent girl she had once been herself. Her mind was tempted to start running scenarios; but Natalia held her attention, as she explained, "Funny like I feel when you kiss me—the way I feel when my body responds to you, only not as strong."

Falling silent, Natalia's thoughts wandered back to that afternoon, and a wave of now-familiar sensations seized her. They weren't about Gus, though. They were about Olivia. He had smelled of Olivia's essence, her unique, intoxicating scent, and she could feel how aroused he was, his rock hard cock pressing against her belly, as he held her close, kissing her possessively. And that taste on his tongue made her dizzy, almost heady, with what she now identified as sexual desire. And then he was pushing her skirt up, shoving her panties aside, and she could feel his cock straining against her through his jeans, and for the first time ever, she found her body aroused enough that he could actually get all the way inside.

She felt flush with embarrassment, as she recounted the story. Purposely, she left out the most intimate details, including the fact that he hadn't even taken off his jeans—he had simply reached inside, lifting his cock over the waistband of his soft cotton briefs, thrusting it deep inside her.

"It was the first and only time I ever really responded to him," she bashfully confessed. Never before had he managed to excite her that way. "And now, after making love with you the way we did just, I realized…"

"What, Natalia?" Olivia gently pressed. "What did you realize?"

"That it was you I had tasted in his kisses, Liv," Natalia quietly answered. "And more than that, I realized that the only time I truly felt aroused during sex with my husband, we were both completely turned on by you." She stressed the catalyst for their shared excitement.

Ordinarily, an admission such as that would draw a satisfied smirk from Olivia. But Natalia was clearly struggling with not only this revelation, but also with unexplained connection between Olivia and that afternoon with Gus. As Natalia finished talking, those scenarios in Olivia's head kicked into high gear. Instinctively, she knew exactly what day this had occurred—it was the only day anything even remotely close could have been possible, and she had a fairly decent idea as to how. Explaining it to Natalia, though, might prove to be a challenge.

"I know I'm not crazy, Olivia," Natalia was saying. "So please, just tell me the truth." Her soft voice was almost pleading. They had made an agreement that Olivia wouldn't talk about past sexual experiences unless Natalia asked specifically. And then, she would tell the truth, no matter what.

Poised to deliver the truth—or at least enough of the truth to quell Natalia's need for insight, Olivia met dark, beseeching eyes. "Something did happen, Sweetheart," she quietly confessed, "but I swear to you, it wasn't that—it wasn't what you think. I never had sex with Gus," she reiterated. "And he certainly never went down on me." Not that she hadn't tried.

There was no anger or recrimination in Natalia's tone, as she set forth her request, "Then tell me what did happen."

Taking a slow, deep breath, Olivia weighed her words. "We were in my suite, just talking—he was reassuring me, once again, that the doctors would find a new heart in time to save me," she began. "And I felt so alone, so desperate, and… I caught him off guard, I—I kissed him. He tried to resist, Natalia. He really did," she said, softly. "But you how I am when I want something—I wouldn't let him go, and finally, he responded, just a little."

She remembered with chagrin, how she had used that fact as a weapon against Natalia, taunting her with it. The more she remembered about the woman she was back then, the more ashamed she felt—and the more amazed, that Natalia could ever love her at all, let alone love her as completely as she did. "That was my opening, and I knew it. I—"

She closed her eyes and sighed, discontented with the person she had been, and the horrible things she had done to Natalia.

"You what, Olivia?" Natalia pressed. "I won't be angry with you. I promise. I just wanna know the truth."

Solemnly, Olivia nodded. "I, um… I touched him, Natalia," she guiltily confessed, "and I made him touch me. He didn't want to, but I grabbed his hand, and forced it where I wanted it. I tried to arouse him, because I knew if I could manage that, he would take me to bed, and then he would be mine."

She bit her bottom lip, remembering how it had felt—his robust fingers in her wetness, as she buried her hand inside his jeans—touching him. He was silky smooth, and she had groaned into his mouth as she stroked the length of him through the softness of his cotton briefs. Even completely flaccid, he was larger than most men were when fully erect. She knew instinctively, that his thick tumescence would fill her more completely than anyone else ever had, and her loins had ached with the desire to feel him buried deep inside her.

The memory of it didn't arouse her. Not in the least. Instead, it made her sick to her stomach; so ashamed was she of what she had done to Natalia's husband. "But he didn't respond to me, Natalia—except to tell me that he couldn't, because he loved you," she shared.

The weight of the memory emblazoned in her mind, she didn't tell Natalia how low she had sunk in her desperation to get Gus into bed. "Then just let me pleasure you… I can make you feel things she never will, Gus. You know it's true…" She had literally purred in his ear, as her hand expertly stroked the length of his manhood. She kissed him again. Hard. Sucking on his tongue in a way that promised even more titillating possibilities elsewhere. "It's not really cheating if you don't fuck me, now is it?" she murmured, enticing him like the beguiling temptress that she was.

Thinking about it all now made her feel so ashamed. Disgusted, really. And in that moment, Olivia realized that she had never really wanted Gus. She wanted the satisfaction of knowing she could have him, despite the fact that he was married. She was dying, and such knowledge would make her feel powerful. It would give her a sense of control in a situation where she had none. That revelation had made her behavior all the more pathetic. She started again to apologize, but the sound of Natalia's voice stilled her.

"But he did respond to you, Olivia," Natalia was saying. He was already hard when he walked through the door—his jeans were bulging, and Natalia would've had to be blind not to notice. "I—I felt him," she said, with furtive insistence, her skin flushing. She hadn't touched him, of course. She never did. Not once. But she could feel the heat of him, straining against her. "And he had never been that way with me before. So passionate, I mean…"

In reality, Natalia had absolutely no clue just how correct she was in her assertion. It had taken every ounce of willpower Gus possessed, to keep his body from responding to Olivia's touch, to her promises of physical nirvana. The mere thought of that avid, wide mouth wrapped around his manhood, sucking him dry—it sent heated shivers down his spine. And God, she had been so wet, so swollen, and ready, and her clit was so hard—he had to force himself not to think about how arousing it would be to draw that throbbing pearl into his mouth, suckling her until she exploded, filling his mouth with her molten desire. He missed the taste of a woman, but that was simply something he could never do with Natalia—never would she consent to such a thing. Sad that he would never realize how much he had underestimated her—with Olivia she not only consented to it, she craved it.

He had barely escaped Olivia's room intact, and as he leaned against the wall outside her door, his chest rising and falling in sharp gasps, he could smell her essence lingering on his fingers—they glistened with her copious juices. As much as he knew he shouldn't, he just couldn't bring himself to resist. If he couldn't have her in the flesh, at least he could still taste her. And so he did. Closing his eyes, he slipped his fingers into his mouth, savoring the salty-sweetness of her; and as he did, he felt the rush of blood and cum congesting his groin as his cock began to rise and fill, making it strain against his fly. He ached with a burning need for release, but somehow he knew, if he stole away anywhere at the Beacon to relieve that sweet pressure, she would know, and he would be lost to her forever. And so he had rushed home with the intent of assuaging his aching need in the privacy of a long, hot shower. But Natalia had been home, unexpectedly, and things had spiraled out of control from there.

As delicately as she could, Olivia offered her suspicions as to how events had transpired. It wasn't exactly what she would've called easy, but in the end, Natalia understood. And more importantly, she believed that Olivia had never had sex with Gus. She was still in awe of Natalia, given the misinformation she had been living with for more than a year.

"All this time, you thought I'd slept with your husband," Olivia said, almost disbelievingly. Gently, she brushed raven tendrils from Natalia's face, allowing her fingertips to linger. "You thought I…" She bit her bottom lip, tears welling up in her eyes. "You fell in love with me anyway…"

"Of course I fell in love with you," Natalia whispered, dark eyes searching liquid jade.

"How could you?" Olivia simply didn't understand how anyone could be so forgiving.

"How could I not?" Natalia rejoined. Up on her knees, she leaned close, her fingers tangling in soft chestnut, as she pressed her lips to Olivia's in a tender kiss. "You're the love of my life…"

Olivia smiled for the first time since their conversation had begun. "You keep saying things like that, and I may just have to marry you someday."

Natalia's dimples bloomed in response. "I'm looking forward to someday," she replied, happily.

Completely disarmed by those dimples, Olivia leaned forward, pressing an open-mouthed kiss against Natalia's right cheek. Lightly, she teased that cute little indentation with her tongue, causing Natalia to giggle.

"If you don't stop that…," Natalia said, emphasizing Olivia's specific action.

"Then, what?" Olivia's eyes sparkled as she issued the challenge. Playfully, she wrapped her arms around Natalia. "What are you gonna do to me, huh?" she asked, spiritedly, as her fingertips tickled Natalia's sides.

Natalia giggled and squirmed. "Stop it!" she squealed.

Olivia laughed heartily. She felt like a kid, playing with Natalia this way. And then she felt like the extreme antithesis of a kid, as her fingertips tickled elsewhere…

"Oh!" Surprised, Natalia squeaked. Her nipples swelled in sexual anticipation, as her eyes flashed, turning dark with arousal. "Oooh…"

"Preview of things to come…," Olivia purred against Natalia's ear, as her fingers slipped away. "Right now, I just wanna hold you."

Part of Natalia felt disappointed—Olivia excited her more than words could say. But really, she just wanted to be with her, regardless of what they were doing. Willingly, she fell against Olivia's body, resting her head against a muscled shoulder.

Silent for a few moments, Olivia contemplated their history, and finally she called out to Natalia, quietly whispering her name.

"Yeah?" Natalia answered on a tranquil breath. Nothing felt better than being in Olivia's arms.

"I'm glad I didn't sleep with Gus…" Other than her declarations of love for Natalia, never in her life had she meant anything more fervently.

A bittersweet smile played on Natalia lips. "Me too," she whispered, against Olivia's ear. And then she pulled her closer, tucking Olivia into her embrace, and they lingered there under that old quilt, talking, laughing, simply being together, not a single care in the world.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Out and About in Springfield—3:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Dining at the bistro wasn't just a meal, it was an event—one that Jen and Tracy thoroughly enjoyed because it allowed them time to relax and simply be together. Today had been no exception, and as they meandered back out into the sunlight, stuffed and smiling, they felt ready to take on the day.

The afternoon was simply too beautiful to waste, and so they elected to walk to their next destination—the local jeweler where Tracy had purchased Jen's ring, more than three years prior. From an early age, Tracy's father had taught her the importance of patronizing locally owned businesses. It may cost a bit more, he had tutored, but the value it brings to the community is immeasurable. She had taken his tutelage to heart, and followed in his footsteps, choosing Jamison Jewelers for the purchase of Jen's ring. The decision to look there first for Tracy's ring had been made together, not only for that reason, but also because they felt it would give them the best chance of finding a perfect match to Jen's ring.

Strolling hand-in-hand along the bustling sidewalks of Springfield, they made their way two blocks to the north, and four to the west, sidestepping busy shoppers, kids on skateboards and rollerblades, young parents with strollers, and the like. They even stopped to pet a boxful of puppies advertised as "Free to a Good Home," along the way. They were the cutest little balls of fluff—one of them pure white, except for her solid black tail—a perfect match for Mozart.

Tracy pouted when Jen issued an adamant "No—" to the suggestion that they take that one home to the boys. "I let you bring a puppy home, next thing I know, you'll be talking babies," Jen said, teasingly, as they walked away from the cute little yipping fur-balls.

Catching the corner of Jen's mouth in a kiss, Tracy grinned. "I haven't given up on that, either."

"Yeah, well I'm finished with babies." Jen reiterated a previous declaration.

Smirking, Tracy reminded, "That's what you said about marriage…" She let the statement wind to its obvious conclusion, as they made their way closer to the jewelry store.

"I'll bet you think you're funny, don't you?" Jen said, dryly.

"Just stating the obvious, Babe," Tracy replied with a droll grin.

"Marriage, yes," Jen easily agreed. "Puppies and babies—No," she added, in a tone that brooked no dispute.

"How about a bunny?" Tracy suggested, facetiously. "We could name her Nibbles."

"No—"

"A hamster?" There was humor in Tracy's tone. "They don't take up much room," she pointed out.

"Not even a goldfish." Jen's tone was absolute; but she was grinning inside.

"Spoil-sport," Tracy accused.

Stopping short, Jen spun Tracy around, pulling her tight against her own body.

Tracy's gaze flickered up to meet ocean blue, her own dark eyes questioning.

"I just really love you," Jen said, sincerely in response to the unspoken query.

Tracy beamed. "Does that mean we can have the puppy?"

"No!" Jen exclaimed. But she couldn't hold back the grin, as she kissed the persistent woman in her arms. "What you can have… is an engagement ring," she said, emphasizing what was allowed.

Grinning, Tracy declared, "That'll do for now…"

Shaking her head, Jen smiled as she took Tracy's hand. "You're impossible."

"And that's exactly why we're on our way to buy that engagement ring," Tracy said, triumphantly. "Now come on, Slowpoke—" She tugged playfully at Jen's arm. "I think I've waited long enough."

Jen couldn't have agreed more.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—4:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"So… what do you think about turning the space above the garage into an efficiency apartment for Rafe?" Olivia suggested. They had been lounging in bed, talking over the possibilities now that they had a nursery to add into their plans. The idea of Rafe taking Olivia's old bedroom had been quickly rejected—it was far too close for comfort, especially given his attitude toward their relationship, and the fact that it was on the other side of their bedroom wall. And they agreed that they wanted to keep the bedroom on the main level for guests, just for convenience. They were quickly running out of options.

"Really?" Natalia sounded surprised, yet interested.

"Yeah, why not?" Olivia replied. "We can put in a bathroom and a small kitchen, a door into the stairwell that leads to the hallway between the guest room and the study. It'll give him a sense of independence, while keeping him connected to our family."

Natalia mulled it over. "Well, he'll definitely need a place where he can study without distractions," she noted. "It's hard to study with a crying baby," she noted from experience. She left off her thoughts about how she would pay his college tuition, but Olivia read her mind.

Tipping Natalia's chin, Olivia searched fretful eyes. "Stop worrying about money," she said with gentle firmness.

Busted, Natalia's lips adopted a crooked grin. "How did you know?"

"You've always worried about money, Natalia." There was no hint of condescension in Olivia's tone as she brushed wayward strands of hair from Natalia's face affectionately.

The look in Natalia's eyes told her to proceed with care.

"I know you're an independent woman, Natalia, and I would never try to take that away from you," Olivia pledged. A reassuring hand fell to Natalia's abdomen, gently caressing. "But you don't need to worry anymore. There will never be a time when you, or Rafe, or this baby want for anything." She didn't tell Natalia that she had already seen to that, long term—it would only cause the woman distress. Such details would be better explained under more controlled circumstances.

"I know," Natalia quietly acknowledged. "I just don't ever want you to feel obligated."

"I love you, Natalia." Olivia's voice held a gentle passion. "Doing my part to take care of this family isn't an obligation, it's a privilege."

The tender conviction in Olivia's voice brought tears to Natalia's eyes. Fingers tangled in soft chestnut, as she gazed into sparkling jade. "You are such a miracle to me," she whispered.

Never once during her time with Gus, had he ever referred to being a part of her life or Rafe's as a privilege—it always felt as though he were fulfilling an obligation to them. Not that he didn't love them. She knew he did. But it was so different from what she shared with Olivia, and it made her realize how much she truly treasured this woman.

"I've been called a lot of things, but never one of those," Olivia joked on a sarcastic laugh.

"Oh, stop it!" Natalia swatted her arm.

Olivia laughed. "You know it's true."

"Well, whatever things you've been called in the past, that's not who you are anymore," Natalia declared. "You're warm, and kind, and so gentle," she whispered, brushing a kiss against the corner of Olivia's mouth. "You're a wonderful partner, Liv. I never thought I would have anyone who loved me the way you do. And you love our kids so much. I couldn't possibly ask for more."

"Don't you know, Natalia?" Olivia's voice was filled with passion and awe, as she searched those deep mahogany eyes. "Loving you and our children… there's no greater love than that. It's the easiest love I've ever known," she avowed, kissing her softly.

Natalia closed her eyes; allowing the emotions to soak in, as she relaxed against Olivia's body once again. Several minutes passed, and finally, she said, "I think an efficiency apartment would be perfect."

"I do too," Olivia agreed.

"Thank you," Natalia said with deep appreciation.

"For what?"

"For being so good to Rafe, even though he doesn't deserve it right now."

"You're the one who taught me that love isn't deserved, Natalia," Olivia gently reminded. "It's freely given."

"I'm glad you finally listened to me." Natalia's tone was teasing, yet it held truth within. It had taken Olivia a while to finally understand that she didn't have to be perfect for Natalia to love her completely, but now that she had, they were both reaping the benefits.

"Hey, I always listen to you," Olivia bantered.

"Yeah, but you don't always believe me," Natalia countered.

"I do now," Olivia murmured, dropping a kiss below Natalia's ear.

Smiling into shimmering jade, Natalia kissed beckoning lips, and then snuggled against Olivia's body again. Their conversation turned back to the nursery then, and they decided to use Olivia's old bedroom since it was right next to theirs. They would meet with a local interior designer as soon as Natalia could get an appointment, and the nursery would be designed from there. In the meantime, she would also contact Josh about renovating the space for Rafe. It made Olivia happy that Natalia had been the one to suggest his company for the job. She trusted his men to do the job right, and it was good to know that Natalia's truly didn't feel threatened by him anymore.

Moving on to other topics, Natalia said that she wanted to tell Frank about the baby the following week—and she thought she should do it alone. Reluctantly, Olivia agreed. Not that she didn't think he had a right to know, or that Natalia couldn't handle it on her own. She just wasn't quite ready to share the baby—or Natalia, for that matter, with him. She had no worries whatsoever that Natalia would leave her. Not anymore. But she also knew Frankie. And the fact that Natalia was carrying his child would bring out the protector in him. Olivia didn't want to share that role with him, or anyone else.

With that in mind, possessively, she pulled Natalia closer.

Natalia simply smiled. She understood.

Rafe's parole hearing was quickly approaching, and they both felt very strongly that he would be coming home. Mel had given them every hope that it would happen, and relying on that, they knew there were many logistics to manage.

The bedroom issue settled, at least in theory, Olivia turned her attention to other issues. "Y'know, Rafe's gonna need a car when he comes home," she suggested. "Job interviews, getting to work after he's hired, classes…"

Natalia knew it was true. Public transportation didn't service cornfields and cow pastures. Clearly, they no longer lived in Chicago. "I know," she granted. "I thought I'd just let him use mine, since we usually take your car to work." She paused for a moment, and Olivia could tell she was contemplating. "Is that okay?"

"That's perfectly all right, Sweetheart," Olivia answered. "I just thought maybe we could take it a few steps further…"

The reaction she received included that look from Natalia—the suspicious one that asked what she was up to and why. "A few steps further, how?"

"Well, I thought I would have a mechanic look your car over—tires, brakes, hoses, belts. Y'know, make sure everything is in proper working order," she explained.

"And then?" The expression on Natalia's face told her she knew it wasn't that simple.

Olivia grinned. Natalia knew her far too well, but she wasn't giving up easily. "And then I thought maybe we'd just give it to him, and get you a new car," she said, tentatively.

"I've never owned a new car in my life, Olivia, and I don't need one now," Natalia argued.

"We're gonna have a new baby soon, Natalia. I don't want you driving around in something that could break down without notice," Olivia debated. "Especially since we live so far from civilization now."

Scowling, Natalia harrumphed, "You make it sound like we live in Timbuktu."

Amused, Olivia chuckled. "Not exactly, but we are a good half-hour from the nearest tow truck." She touched Natalia's cheek with tender affection. "Look, I'm just concerned about something happening to you and the kids," she said with concern. "What if it breaks down halfway out here in the middle of winter, or worse, when it's 110 degrees in the shade? You know our cell phones don't always have good service once we leave the interstate."

Silenced, Natalia mulled over Olivia's point. "Why don't I just use your car, and you can get a new one," she suggested.

Tunneling her fingers into the back of Natalia's curly tresses, Olivia leaned close, lingering on her mouth. "Is it so wrong for me to want you to have something nice?" There were no signs of condescension, frustration, or defensiveness in her tone, only love. "You deserve it more than anyone I know, N'talia."

Natalia's lips quirked into a grin. "I just thought that maybe you could buy a little sports car," she purred. "Y'know, a cute little five-speed like Lena's… Did I tell you how sexy I thought you were, driving that car?"

Immediately, Olivia's own engine was revving. "Oh, yeah?" She didn't bother telling her that manual transmissions were the norm in European countries—everyone drove them, and thus, they held no mystique.

"Mm-hmm…," Natalia hummed. Her lips skated along Olivia's angular jawline, as her hand slithered up an inner thigh, squeezing. "The way the muscles in your thighs flexed every time you shifted gears…" She nipped at Olivia's earlobe, her hand massaging a toned thigh. "You have no idea how hard it was for me to keep my hands to myself." Her mouth met Olivia's, engaging her in a deep kiss. "Think of all the fun we could have on date night…"

"Natalia!" Olivia growled. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. This woman certainly knew how to surprise her.

"What?" Natalia countered. "I've had sex in a car before, Liv. Where do you think Rafe was conceived? The honeymoon suite at the Ritz?"

Olivia laughed. "Well, no…"

"Exactly," Natalia rejoined. "It was the back seat of Nicky's beat up old Chevy, after a concert. And yes, he did gripe about lifting cars," she grinned. "He told me he hurt so bad it would fall off if I didn't let him."

Chuckling, Olivia said, "I can't believe you fell for that."

Blushing, Natalia dropped Olivia's gaze as she sheepishly admitted, "Neither can I, but I didn't know any better. I also didn't know you could get pregnant the first time."

An affectionate brush of Olivia's hand across Natalia's face moved that curtain of dark curls from her eyes, and then she kissed her. "I guess we've both learned a thing or two about sex over the years," she asserted.

Intrigued, Natalia said, "Oh, yeah? What have you learned?"

Arching a seductive eyebrow, Olivia offered a response. "Well, for one, I've learned that sex with you is far more satisfying than anything else I've ever tried."

A low growl tore from Natalia's lungs. "You don't say…"

"Oh, but I do say," Olivia replied on a throaty groan, as her mouth found Natalia's neck. "I say it's wonderful, and fulfilling, and I can't wait to do it with you again, and again, and again…" She dropped kisses along Natalia's collarbone and onto her breast between each adjective and utterance of the word "again."

A sound that could only be described as a growling purr vibrated from Natalia's lungs. "Think we could get started on one of those 'agains' right now?"

"Oh, definitely," Olivia husked, as her mouth found a puckered nipple. "Why don't we start with you telling me what you'd like to do to me in that little sports car I'm gonna buy?"

Her body already in overdrive, Natalia grinned triumphantly. Leaning in, she nibbled at Olivia's earlobe, whispering, "I'd rather just show you…"

And then she did…

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Out and About in Springfield—4:15 p.m. Central Daylight Time

A Springfield landmark since the early 1800's, when the city was first settled, the family-owned Jamison Jewelers stood at the corner of East Washington and South Second Street. The metal and canvas awning, draped in the vertical tricolor of the Irish national flag—green, white, and orange, proudly displayed the familiar logo of intertwined rings with the store name etched inside, and the slogan: Serving the Fine Jewelry needs of Springfield since 1809, in bold, italicized lettering just below.

The thick ruffled canvas that draped down from the frame flapped in the warm breeze, as Tracy reached for the door handle, opening it for Jen. As they stepped over the threshold, her fingertips instinctively fell to the small of Jen's back, establishing that familiar connection.

The moment they wandered into the shop, the owner—a short, genial gentleman named Gerard, with silvery-white hair, and kind gray eyes, recognized Tracy. He greeted her like an old friend, hugging her as he rattled off questions about how she had been, how her family was doing, and how the big proposal had gone.

Laughing easily, she answered his questions in order—she was wonderful, her family was quite well, thank you so much for asking.

As Tracy answered his questions and dialogued with him, Jen occupied herself by taking a quick visual tour of the shop. It was a small space, as far as shops went, and it held the distinct air of nostalgia within its walls—the essence of a bygone era.

Ornate crown molding, freshly painted in a delicate antiqued white, created an elegant tiered tray ceiling, evoking touches of both contemporary and Old-World to the room. The flat portion of the ceiling matched the color of the walls—a soft blue-gray with hints of rose. The entire back wall of the shop was a floor to ceiling mirror, showcasing a collection of antique clocks, including two matching Grandfather Clocks that stood like guardians from the far ends of the mirror.

Frosted glass sconces lighted the walls, and two elegant chandeliers with matching fixtures hung above the long center aisle. Glass cases set into meticulously carved cherry wood bases were anchored parallel to the outer edges of the room, with about four feet of walking space behind them before reaching the tall matching display cases that were anchored to the walls. The glass shelves within held any number of opulent treasures, from watches, to earrings, to necklaces and bracelets and rings of every imaginable gemstone, to diamond engagement rings and wedding sets, and even items like crystal wine goblets and silver tea sets. It seemed Jamison Jewelers had it all, and it was proudly displayed. Jen didn't even want to contemplate the type of security they had in force in that small space.

The hardwood floors had been recently refinished, but it was obvious by the underlying scrape lines and gouges that it was original—or at least a distant replacement. It creaked under her feet, adding to the overall charm of the room, and Jen found herself drawn to the ambiance, lost in her silent explorations of an era gone by.

She was pulled from exploration by the familiar sound of Tracy's voice. "This is my fiancée, Jennifer," she was saying. "We finally got engaged this morning," she chuckled.

Brushing aside his surprise at the delayed engagement—she had finished paying off the ring more than two years prior—he remembered how excited she had been the day she made the final payment, and took possession of the beautiful wedding set. How and why she had waited so long was none of his business, he knew, but it certainly caught him off guard.

Clearing his throat, he congratulated them warmly, as he fussed over how beautiful the ring looked on Jen's elegant hand, and what exquisite taste Tracy had shown in choosing it for her.

Thanking him kindly for the compliments, Jen beamed with excitement, and it radiated directly into Tracy's own smile.

He cordially told them they were welcome, and then, adjusting his wire-framed glasses, he dutifully straightened his bowtie, and asked how he might be of assistance on such a fine spring afternoon.

"We're looking for the perfect engagement ring for my fiancée," Jen reported, with a proud smile as she gazed affectionately at Tracy. Unreservedly, she wrapped her arms around Tracy's waist, nuzzling into her cheek, as Tracy's arm fell around her. "She's quite the beautiful woman, as you can see, and we need an absolutely stunning ring to complement her."

Blushing under Jen's compliments, Tracy murmured, "Babe…," making it sound like two very long, full syllables, rather that two short, succinct ones.

Jen smiled, and kissed Tracy's cheek. "Well, you are…"

Gerard smiled kindly, and motioned them over toward the display cases near the back wall. The soles of his perfectly polished wingtips clicked against the hardwood, as he led them across the small, neatly organized room. "Might you have a particular style in mind for your lady?"

Catching Tracy's gaze, Jen lingered there as she answered. "Something simple," she said with confidence. "A platinum band to match mine, but with inset diamonds. Nothing protruding."

Taking Tracy's hand, she entwined their fingers as they followed him. "She plays basketball, and coaches little league and soccer for our sons, so she won't want anything that could easily get caught somewhere or injure someone."

Feeling a gentle squeeze to the hand that held her own, Jen glanced toward Tracy again. The expression in those deep russet eyes told her that Tracy loved how well she knew her.

"Ah… then a diamond wedding or anniversary band, perhaps, more so than a solitaire or tiered setting," Gerard was suggesting, as Jen lost herself in those eyes.

At Tracy's prodding, Jen finally answered the question. "Not exactly, but close. I'd like to see something with a decent-sized, inset center stone, and I'd prefer a band that would fit nicely inside a guard, so that she has an actual engagement ring," she extrapolated, hoping to give him a better idea. Meeting Tracy's gaze again, she added, "She's waited long enough. It's time for me to put a ring on her finger."

Her final comments earned her an affectionate kiss, and a whispered, "I love you," from Tracy.

Paying them no mind—couples kissed in his store all the time—gray eyes lightened, as Gerard smiled excitedly. It wasn't about the sale so much as the satisfaction of knowing he had just the right piece to create a matched setting. Nothing delighted him more than pleasing a customer. "I think I have the perfect set," he declared.

The happy couple made noises of appreciation, as they shared another tender kiss.

Reaching into the front pocket of his trousers, Gerard produced a ring of small keys, and selecting a specific one, began fidgeting with the lock on the cabinet. "And if I remember correctly, it matches the wedding band in your set, Ms. Jennifer." He made it a practice to remember precisely what piece he sold to each customer.

Pleased, Jen said, "That would be lovely." Gently, she ushered Tracy in front of her, resting her hand on her fiancée's right hip as they waited for him to produce the ring.

He didn't disappoint.

From beneath the glass encasement, he lifted a platinum band with a three-quarter carat encrusted princess-cut center stone, and two rows of channel-set diamond baguettes flanking the sides. Parallel to the baguettes at measured intervals, there were flanks of raised platinum, creating a textured appearance around the outer surface of the ring, the actual surface of the ring being antiqued. Simple, and elegant, it slipped beautifully into a ring wrap of matching platinum and diamonds, creating a stunning ensemble of diamonds, three rows wide, yet still slender enough that it wouldn't overpower the femininity of Tracy's hand.

The moment she saw the ring, Tracy's lips adopted a smile. It was absolute perfection.

As she gazed at it, awestruck, Gerard was declaring as much by saying, "It should be a precise fit for you, Ms. Tracy." His practiced eye told him her finger was an exact size seven.

Leaning her forehead against Tracy's temple, Jen whispered, "This is the one, isn't it?"

Smiling, Tracy nodded. "It's beautiful," she said, softly. She sought Jen's gaze. "Is this the one you would've picked?"

"What do you think?" Jen countered with a smile. It was exactly what she would have chosen, even if Tracy weren't standing right there.

"Would you like to look at a few others?" Gerard offered. "I have several similar settings from which to choose." Some were more expensive, some less, but he didn't mention that. His father and grandfather had taught him only to discuss price when asked. "I just thought this one would be most fitting."

Shaking her head, Tracy declined to look any further. "This is the one," she declared, without a moment's hesitation. It didn't surprise her that he had selected just the right one off the bat—he had done the same for her with Jen's ring. And then she caught Jen's gaze. "Unless it's too expensive," she said, considerately.

Jen glanced up at Gerard. "May I?" She motioned toward the ring.

"Yes, yes, of course," he quickly consented, handing it to her.

Holding it between her thumb and forefinger, Jen studied it for a moment. The color and clarity of the diamonds were simply brilliant, and the artisanship was beyond reproach. Her eyes met Tracy's, lingering. "Try it on?"

Giddily, Tracy nodded her head. The smile on her face would have illuminated the entire room if it were dark.

Taking Tracy's hand, gingerly, she slid the ring in place. Gerard had been correct—it fit as though it were made for her. "This must be the one," Jen asserted. "They're never a perfect fit like this."

Extending her arm, Tracy studied the ring from a slight distance, delighting in the way it glittered in the light. The engagement band was stunning, in and of itself, but she loved the way the outer bands entwined with it, creating an interlocking channel of sparkling gemstones.

While Tracy was busy admiring the ring, Gerard quickly scribbled a figure on a small piece of paper, discreetly sliding it Jen's direction.

Lifting the paper, she perused it with an air of business finesse, but she wasn't fooling either one of them. It mattered not what the paper said—Tracy was in love with the ring, and thus, the sale was already a given.

Smiling, she nodded at him, and he set about preparing the sales papers.

Jen's attention turned fully to Tracy then, as she nuzzled against her fiancée's ear. "I'm never getting that away from you, am I?" she whispered playfully.

Tilting her head, Tracy skimmed a kiss across Jen's lips. "I'll give it up for a bit," she grudgingly agreed. "But not for long. And only because the wedding bands are attached."

Chuckling, Jen agreed. Taking Tracy's face in her hands, she kissed her tenderly. And then she was whispering to her, telling her how happy she was, and how much she loved her, before directing her attention to the finalization of her purchase. Another monumental step on this journey they called life.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—5:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"Do you realize we've basically been in bed for the past twenty-four hours?" Olivia mused, as they snuggled under the covers in their king-sized oasis. Their bedroom windows were open, and the curtains were floating in the warm, southerly breeze.

An uncharacteristically impish grin teased Natalia's lips. "Is that a problem?"

"Oh, hell, no!" Olivia laughed. "Just observing…"

"Hmm…"

"What, hmm?"

"Just thinking…," Natalia said, leadingly. Like the petals of a flower, her fingertips whispered across Olivia's nipple, causing an instantaneous tautening. The immediacy of the response made her feel giddy. "Wondering, really…"

"About?" Olivia shivered beneath that tantalizing touch. Natalia's fingers were magic, she decided.

"Well, we have at least another twenty-four to occupy." Natalia skimmed her mouth across that tight peak.

"And…" Her belly hot with sexual anticipation, Olivia groaned. She couldn't believe Natalia was getting her aroused again. Even as sexually active as she had been before getting sick, she'd never had this much sex in an entire week, let alone a single day! Not that she was complaining, but certain body parts were beginning to protest, and she needed a break. At least a short one.

Arching an eyebrow, Natalia answered, "And I was just wondering what else we might try before we have to be, well… not naked."

Tightening her hold, Olivia laughed as she rolled Natalia partially beneath her. "You are insatiable."

"You say that like it's a bad thing," Natalia grinned up at her.

"Oh, no—it's the best thing ever," Olivia quickly corrected. Leaning down, she lightly tongued Natalia's ear. "I feel like a teenager," she confessed, grinning devilishly against Natalia's neck, as her fingers sifted through the delta between toned thighs. "I can't keep my hands off of you…"

A simultaneous low groan resounded between them, and then Natalia was breathily declaring, "You won't hear me complaining."

Olivia kissed her mouth. "What would you say to a nice, relaxing massage?"

Natalia's eyes lit up. "I've never had one before."

Grinning, Olivia kissed her again. "Then you're in for a real treat," she declared. She hopped from their bed before Natalia could protest.

"Where are you going?" Natalia pouted.

Leaning over her, Olivia delighted in the tickling sensation of her nipples teasing the swell of Natalia's breasts. "I need to get something from my suitcase," she explained. She feathered her mouth across Natalia's again. "Be right back."

Tossing aside her poutiness, Natalia quickly decided that the view was quite nice, as she watched Olivia saunter across their bedroom toward the door. She might just need to send Olivia for glasses of water now and again, she thought. The visual was stunning, both coming and going.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—6:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time

A slow, deep moan dripped from Natalia's lips like molasses on a sultry July afternoon as Olivia's skillful hands kneaded the grateful flesh of her shoulders and upper back. God, this woman's hands were delightful. Olivia was kneeling astride Natalia's hips, as she worked the oil into porous olive flesh. Taking her time, she had already worked her way down the entire length of Natalia's body, and back up again—front and back—leaving the woman beneath her relaxed to a degree she had never known existed. It was an arousing experience for both of them, as well—especially when Olivia massaged fleshy breasts and Natalia's beautiful, sensitive mons. But it hadn't turned overtly sexual. It wasn't about that—not this time.

Natalia's skin smelled of fragrant peach blossoms, and tasted of that sweet, succulent nectar, as Olivia nuzzled against her, dropping kisses behind the path her hands had taken. She needed to ask Lena where to find this stuff—it was wonderful! But in the moment, her thoughts belonged solely to Natalia, and the wonderful sensation of soft, supple skin beneath her fingertips.

Sighing softly, Olivia dusted kisses across the back of Natalia's neck, as she whispered to her, asking her how she was feeling, and if she needed more.

"Mm… there are no words…" Natalia's response fell from her lips on a blissful breath. "Just lay with me now," she quietly implored. "I need to feel you all around me…"

Dropping more slow kisses against smooth skin, Olivia covered Natalia's body with her own, pressing her full length against that sweet yielding firmness beneath her. Instinctively, her legs entwined with Natalia's, even from behind. "Is this all right?" she murmured against Natalia's ear, as she wrapped her arms around her lover, enveloping her fully. She was afraid she might be too heavy for Natalia to sustain her weight indefinitely.

"It's perfect, Love," Natalia whispered. "Just be with me…"

One more delicate kiss, this one behind Natalia's ear, as Olivia whispered, "Always…"

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Out and About in Springfield—6:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"Mm… this is nice," Jen purred, as she relaxed against Tracy's body. They had thrown a blanket down on the hillside overlooking the lake on the Beacon grounds, and settled in for a few more moments of quiet togetherness. "It isn't often that we get a whole night and day alone together."

"I know…" Tracy sighed contentedly, as her fingertips lightly caressed Jen's arm. She loved the feeling of having Jen tucked against her side. "I missed you this week."

"I missed you, too," Jen agreed, wholeheartedly. The week had proven to be incredibly busy, with her managing the Beacon, and Tracy taking up the slack with the boys. It had left them precious little time alone together. And then all the stress caused by Preston's legal action. Slipping her hand beneath Tracy's navy blue Cowboys jersey, she reveled in the rippling of toned muscles beneath her fingertips. "Last night was wonderful," she cooed.

A satisfied smile drifted across Tracy's lips, and she pressed them against Jen's brow. "So was this morning…"

Jen certainly couldn't disagree. She had desperately needed that connection with Tracy. "We should do something nice for your parents, to thank them for taking the boys for the night."

"They'll just say that's nonsense. They love spending time with their grandsons," Tracy commented. "Grand-mère does, too."

"You mean she loves feeding them." There was humor in Jen's comment.

"Well, yeah, that too," Tracy laughed. "She's an old-school Italian grandma, that's what she does."

"Food or not, the boys really love spending time with their grandparents," Jen acknowledged. "I'm glad they have your family."

"They're your family, too, ya know," Tracy gently reminded. "And they'll be even more so, once we're married."

Shifting onto her belly, Jen laid partially atop Tracy, their gazes meeting. "Since we're on the subject of family, there's something I wanted to talk with you about—to ask you, really."

Fingers tunneling through soft blonde locks, Tracy regarded her with sincerity. "What is it, Babe?"

"How would you feel about making everything legal?" Jen posed, emphasizing the totality of it. "The boys too, I mean."

"I already have legal guardianship." Tracy sounded confused. It was something they had quietly petitioned the courts for two years prior, when Dylan had become ill and needed hospitalization. The experience had opened their eyes to the legalities of their relationship, and they sought counsel to remedy the situation.

"No—" Jen shook her head. "I mean legally becoming their other Mom."

"Adoption." There was no question in Tracy's tone, only certainty, as she gazed into Jen's eyes.

A tentative smile edged on Jen's lips. "I should've asked you from the beginning," she said, ruefully. "It's what I really wanted, and it probably would've given us more leverage against Preston."

"You're asking now, that's all that matters," Tracy said, supportively. She smiled into smoky blue eyes. "And the answer is yes. I want to make it legal, Jen. Being their mom is the only thing in this world I want as much as I want to be your wife."

The sincerity in Tracy's voice made Jen's heart flutter. Teary-eyed, she pressed her lips to Tracy's in a tender kiss. "Have you any idea how much that means to me?"

"The three of you are everything to me, Cara," Tracy whispered against Jen's ear. From next to her on the blanket, the furry little white puppy wagged her coal-black tail and yipped, as if to say, Hey, what about me?

Tracy turned her head, and reached out, ruffling the puppy's soft fur.

The puppy yipped again, and jumped up onto Tracy's chest, licking all over her face. Tracy laughed, swatting at the little rascal, who then tried to reach Jen, too. But the leash that held her wasn't long enough, and thus, she returned her attention to Tracy.

Jen rolled her eyes and chuckled, as she regarded the newest addition to their family. "I can't believe you talked me into this dog," she said, wryly.

Laughing, Tracy nudged her. "Oh, come on, you know you wanted her too."

Shaking her head, Jen regarded Tracy with deep affection, as she remembered the look in those dark, expressive eyes, the tone of Tracy's voice, when she said, "Every little boy needs a puppy, Babe. You know the boys would love her." It had been more than Jen could resist, and thus, the puppy, and two very large bags full of puppy "necessities" had accompanied them back to their car. There just happened to be a pet store along the way, which is why, Jen assumed, the bearer of the puppies had chosen that spot to set up shop. Free puppies, indeed.

She knew Tracy was right—the boys would love the puppy. They had been asking for one for a while, and she had staunchly resisted. But they were getting older, and as Tracy had argued, it would help teach them responsibility, among other things. And so she had agreed. If she was going to make changes in her life, she might as well make them all at once, she reasoned.

Smiling, she leaned in, kissing Tracy lightly. "My boys were your first love," she acknowledged, wistfulness in her tone.

A telling smile fell across Tracy's lips. "There's no use denying that," she conceded. She had fallen in love with those two little boys on sight, and had only grown more attached to them as the years went by. "But it didn't take me long to fall in love with their Mommy, too."

Cupping Tracy's chin in the crook of her hand, Jen smiled into shimmering russet. "You are the love of my life, Tracy Jackson," she whispered affectionately, her blue eyes shining. "You do know that, don't you?"

"You've never said that to me before." The depth of emotion brought by Jen's confession was evident in Tracy's eyes as they sparkled with unspent tears.

"There are a lot of things I've never said, that I should have," Jen ruefully admitted. "And a lot of things I've said far too late."

"It's only too late if they're left unsaid, Cara," Tracy gently disagreed.

"I don't ever wanna leave anything unsaid with you, Trace," Jen avowed.

"You haven't," Tracy said, with reassurance in her gaze. "You've said the things that matter, in the moments that mattered most."

A soft smile slowly spread across Jen's face, as she slid her hand into the front pocket of her jeans, pulling out the black velvet box that held Tracy's ring. "Then I guess this is the perfect moment to officially ask you to be my wife," she whispered.

Tracy's eyes sparkled with love and anticipation, as she watched Jen shift to her knees, and open the box. She sat upright, settling the puppy in her lap, their gazes never faltering.

Lifting the ring from the box, Jen gingerly separated the engagement band from the diamond-encrusted ring guard. She slipped the guard back into the box, and quickly pocketed it. And then, taking Tracy's hand into her own, she kissed the tops of her fingers, tenderly. "I know my proposal this morning seemed to come out of nowhere," she conceded, "but honestly, Tracy, it's what I want. More than anything, I want to be your wife."

Pursing her lips, Tracy's eyes took on a playful glint. "It's about time you got your stubborn ass in gear," she teased.

Regaled by Tracy's usual waggishness and allure, Jen laughed softly. "I can't imagine how I resisted your charms for so long," she said, wittily. She brushed the backs of her fingers along Tracy's jawline, her expression turning tender. "Marry me?" she whispered softly. "Make me your wife?"

Russet eyes sparkled with tears, bringing out those tiny flecks of gold. It took everything in her not to kiss the woman. "How could I resist such a heartfelt request?" she whispered.

Jen's breath caught in the midst of a soft, delighted laugh, and then shaky fingers were sliding the ring into place on Tracy's finger. It glittered in the lingering sunlight, almost as brightly as those flecks in Tracy's eyes. And then Tracy was in her arms, and she was kissing her with tender longing—the kind of longing built by years of waiting patiently for the one thing she wanted more than anything else in life—to finally be Jennifer Morgan's wife.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—7:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Olivia leaned causally against the kitchen counter, watching Natalia wash the dinner dishes. They had just shared a simple meal of baked pesto chicken and angel hair pasta with French bread. "We need a dishwasher," she announced, pushing herself away from the counter to retrieve a kitchen towel.

Natalia glanced at her, a small smile playing at her lips. "We already have two sets of dishwashers."

The comment garnered a quizzical expression from her partner.

Raising her hands from the dishwater, Natalia laughed, answering the unspoken question with the wiggling of wet fingers.

Arching that eyebrow, Olivia tossed the towel onto the counter, and wrapped her arms around Natalia from behind. Her hands slipping beneath the thin cotton of Natalia's blue Cubs T-shirt, she was rewarded with a soft whimper of pleasure, as she nuzzled into her neck. "I was hoping to preserve those for other duties…," she smirked.

"Olivia!" Natalia exclaimed. Snatching the dishtowel from the counter, she reached behind, playfully swatted her with it.

"What?" Olivia yelped. She feigned innocence, but the grin that toyed with the corners of her mouth gave her away. "Just sayin'…," she shrugged, with a raised eyebrow and a devilish smile. Kissing Natalia's neck, she let her fingers slip away, and stepped aside.

Natalia grunted at the loss, and Olivia smiled. "Later…"

The expression in Natalia's eyes told her she'd better mean it.

Dishtowel in hand again, Olivia lifted a plate from the dish rack, a rascally grin on her face as she began drying.

They worked in quiet tandem for several minutes, making quick work of the dinner clean up, and then Natalia broke the silence. "Much as I hate to say it, we need to hit the market tomorrow," she noted casually.

Olivia knew it was true. They had purposely let their supply dwindle in preparation for the trip to the Vineyard, and they needed to prepare for a week of having guests.

"We had more food here the night I made dinner for Decker and the Xiao's." There was humor in Natalia's tone, as she remembered the arrival of unexpected dinner guests to a kitchen with empty cupboards, in a house that wasn't even theirs.

Nodding her agreement, an affectionate smile played on Olivia's lips.

"What?" Natalia questioned, self-consciously.

Setting the plate aside, Olivia pulled Natalia close. "You did an incredible job that night," she quietly acknowledged. "I was so proud of you." There were tears in her eyes as she said it, her thoughts falling back to moments shared between the two of them that evening. The lingering looks, the light touches, the feelings that were burgeoning within her. She had already been so in love with this woman. It had simply taken her time to put a name to what she was feeling.

Tilting her head adorably, Natalia accepted a kiss. "Thank you," she whispered, her own eyes glistening with tears. "You make me feel so good when you say things like that to me."

"I'm proud of you for so many things, Natalia," Olivia praised. "I should tell you more often."

Natalia's eyes sparkled. "Like what?"

Olivia found the anticipation in Natalia's face completely disarming. "It's mostly about how you're not afraid to take chances," she answered. "You took a chance when you decided to raise Rafe on your own. You took a chance when you came to Springfield. You took a chance when you quit your waitressing job and came to work for me. And my favorite?" she said with an affectionate smile, as she gently touched Natalia's face. "You took a chance when you opened your heart… and let me in. You take chances… You're a lot bolder and braver than you give yourself credit for." The admiration in Olivia's tone matched the expression in her eyes as she gazed at the woman in her arms. "And I am so incredibly proud of you."

Shyly, Natalia averted Olivia's gaze, a soft chuckle falling from her lips. "You know, a couple months ago, I would've really argued with you that all my choices are very safe," she conceded. "But… you're right… I took the biggest chance of my life when I told you…"

Pulling Natalia impossibly closer, Olivia's face held a coquettish smile, her voice a soft purr, "When you told me what?"

"I love you…," Natalia whispered, holding Olivia's gaze.

"And?" Olivia held her breath.

"And I haven't regretted it since." Natalia's smile was breathtaking, as she leaned close, kissing Olivia tenderly. Lightly, she touched Olivia's cheek, thumb brushing against her lower lip. "I love you so much," she whispered.

Olivia kissed Natalia's thumb. "I love you too," she murmured, her gaze never wavering. "You're my best friend in the entire world," she declared with quiet passion. And then she was blushing. "Does that sound too school-girlish?"

Natalia found the hint of self-consciousness in Olivia completely endearing. "No… it's not too school-girlish for me," she grinned sweetly. "I feel the same way about you."

Smiling into those shimmering eyes, Olivia whispered, "You know, they say that best friends make the best lovers…"

"Yeah, they do," Natalia granted with a slow nod and a besotted smile. "And if what we've shared since last night is any indication, I'd say they're onto something."

Olivia kissed her softly. "I would have to agree…"

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Tracy's Childhood Home—7:15 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"You missed spaghetti and meatballs, my Darlings!" Tracy's grandmother was embracing them both before they even cleared the threshold. The traditional Italian feast was served at six o'clock sharp, every Saturday night without fail, and whoever was present, ate. No invitations, no regrets. It was simply understood.

Laughing, Tracy explained that they had good reason.

"And what good reason might this be?" Rosalie Lombardi questioned, with the sharp eye of a woman who was accustomed to ferreting out the truth.

"She said 'yes,' Grand-mère!" Tracy announced, her face beaming. "She finally said 'Yes'!"

Blushing, Jen moved aside, as Rosalie's plump arms gathered her eldest granddaughter into a passionate, smothering embrace. "I'm so happy for you both, Dolcezza. So Happy!"

That rich Italian accent washed over Tracy like an old familiar quilt, as her grandmother addressed her by that intimate childhood endearment, meaning "sweetness." She smiled into Rosalie's neck, as she soaked in the familiar scent of her—rose-water and Italian spices. It never grew old, the way that scent always made her feel secure. "Actually, she proposed to me," she whispered. "Can you believe it?"

Releasing her from their embrace, Rosalie grasped Tracy's face in her work-worn hands. "Didn't I tell you?" she said, knowingly. "Patience and faith, my Darling Girl—that's all it takes."

And then Rosalie was laughing with mirth as she gathered Jen into her arms as well. No matter how many they held, those arms always had room for one more. "Congratulations, my sweet Jennifer," she said with unbridled joy.

"Thank you, Grandma Rosie." Jen's voice was brimming with emotion as she hugged the woman tightly. "We're both really excited. We…"

Before she could finish her comment, Jen and Tracy found themselves enveloped in a swarm of hugs, kisses, and congratulations from an entire roomful of people—Tracy's parents Michaela and Glenn, her older brothers Logan and Chris, and her sister Gabriella, whom they called Brie, as well as her extended family, including her Uncle Carlo and Aunt Izzy, her cousins, Gian, Marc, Luc, and Carissa, and Gian's wife, Rebekah. Unlike her own childhood home, the Jackson household was always chaotic and loud, filled with the boisterous voices of family, and Jen had grown accustomed to it over the years. She simply smiled at the interruption, and accepted the warmth of their sincere felicitations.

And then Rosalie, in all of her four-foot-nine eminence, was shooing the lot of them away, and tugging on the happy couples' arms. "You come now, sit in my kitchen," she coaxed with great affection. An invitation to her kitchen was akin to visiting a Holy place. Not even Tracy's own mother was allowed in that kitchen without Grandma's approval, and the remainder of the family knew to stay at bay. "I feed you, you tell me everything…" She talked with her hands as much as her voice.

Tracy grinned at Jen and took her hand, following Rosalie without question. They both knew it was futile to argue. As Tracy had noted earlier, she was an old-school Italian grandma—hungry or not, she fed everyone.

The celebration continued in the living room, as Jen and Tracy entered the kitchen on Rosalie's heels. Smiling at one another at the ruckus in the other room, they both knew it would be an evening filled with much of the same, as they settled on padded black leather barstools at the counter. And chattering amiably about the events of their day, they filled Grandma Rosie in, as she made good on her threat to feed them. Again…

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—7:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Returning to their bedroom, it had taken Natalia only mere seconds to disrobe both herself and Olivia again. She pushed Olivia down onto their bed, her voice low, ready, as she climbed on top of her, reminding her of the promised "Later…"

Olivia smirked, "This could've gone even faster if we'd left clothing out of it altogether."

Seriously?, the expression on Natalia's face seemed to say, even as her mouth was asking, "You really want me to cook naked?"

"Have you any idea how sexy you would look in nothing but an apron?" Olivia husked. It made her wet just thinking about it. Natalia's smooth, firm ass out in the open, just begging to be touched, and rubbed against, and kissed, and squeezed. Pressing up against her, slipping her arms around her beneath that apron, and sliding inside her, taking her from behind. And oh, the things she could do to her on that countertop…

"Oh, really?" Natalia's sultry tone broke through, snapping Olivia from her ruminations.

Nodding, Olivia declared, "It's one of my goals in life to see that happen." And then she rolled her over, pressing into her body as she whispered to her, telling her all of the delicious things she'd like to do to her beneath that apron.

Blushing, Natalia grinned up at her. "Well, that gives a whole new meaning to the words 'afternoon snack'."

"Doesn't it, though?" Olivia purred.

Resolute fingers tunneled through thick chestnut, as Natalia gazed into Olivia's eyes. "I love being with you like this," she commented. "I've never felt so relaxed, so comfortable in my own skin. And I've certainly never felt so at ease talking about sex."

Lightly, Olivia nuzzled Natalia's nose. "I'm glad you feel safe with me, Natalia," she said, softly. "I love that you're not too embarrassed to share your fantasies with me, and that you're so open to trying new things."

"It was really hard at first, Liv," Natalia sheepishly admitted. "I've never talked about things like that before. I never really knew I was allowed to want things. Sexually, I mean. I didn't know I did want things. The few times I've had sex, it was always about pleasing someone else. It was never about me."

Leaning down, Olivia brushed her mouth against Natalia's in a brief kiss. "Well, from now on, it's all about you," she declared. "You can have anything you want. All you have to do is tell me, and… if you can't figure out how to tell me, you can always show me." She grinned roguishly about that last part, and Natalia laughed softly.

"I can't wait to show you all kinds of ideas I've thought of in the last twenty-four hours," Natalia said, flirtingly.

Interests piqued, Olivia arched that eyebrow again. "Oh, really?"

"Yes, really," Natalia purred against Olivia's lips. "You've inspired me…"

Olivia smiled into their kiss. "I love that you're so adventurous."

"You bring it out in me," Natalia acknowledged.

"Like I said earlier, I love that you're not afraid to take chances," Olivia murmured against Natalia's ear. "Why don't you pick one of those ideas, and show me right now?"

"It would be my pleasure," Natalia husked.

And then she did…

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Tracy's Childhood Home—8:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Tracy laughed heartily at the sight of their youngest boy, caked in mud and sopping wet. Not surprisingly, Jacob followed closely behind—not a spot of dirt anywhere on him; yet she knew he had been with his brother. "Where on earth have you guys been?" As if she didn't already know.

"Chasin' crawdads in the creek with Uncle Ronan," Dylan beamed, obviously pleased with the outcome of the activity shared with Tracy's youngest brother.

"Well, did ya catch any?" Tracy asked, amused.

"Yup," Dylan answered, with the firm nod of his head. He cupped the corner of his mouth, whispering too loudly for a secret, "Uncle Ronan knows where all the big ones hide."

"Oh, he does, does he?" Playfully, Tracy tousled his thick curls, so much like her own. "You know who showed him, don't ya?"

"Who?

"I did," Tracy crowed.

"No way!" Dylan sounded amazed. "You know how to catch crawdads?"

"Yup."

"Wow!" Dylan exclaimed. "You're like the coolest mom ever." He stressed the endlessness of Tracy's coolness.

Tracy laughed. "Wait till you see what I can do with a fishin' pole," she bragged. It paid to have a Dad and older brothers who loved to fish.

Leaning against the doorway that led from the kitchen to the back porch of Tracy's childhood home, Jen watched her fiancée's interaction with their boys. Amused and enchanted by the entire conversation, she couldn't help but smile. "Hey, Guys," she said, lightly, as she pushed away from the door, walking toward them.

"Hi, Mom," Jacob answered, warmly. Sneaker-clad feet shuffled against the concrete, as he adjusted his American Eagle baseball cap. It was the sportiest thing he owned.

"Hey, Mom," Dylan greeted with a smile. "Sorry about my clothes," he said, ruefully.

"Don't worry about it, Champ," Jen said, passively. "Both you and your clothes are wash and wear; we'll just clean you up."

"Yeah, Sport," Tracy easily agreed. "The most important thing is that you had fun."

"I did!" Dylan's voice was filled with exuberance. "I can't wait to do it again!" He cast a glance at Jacob, noting the less than enthused expression on his brother's face. "I don't think Jacob agrees."

"It was boring," Jacob grumped. He eyed his younger brother up and down, appraisingly. "And you're a mess."

Jen shook her head, an affectionate smile on her lips as she silently noted the differences between their boys. Jacob craved order, and cleanliness, while Dylan thrived in utter chaos, and always looked as though he'd just rolled in a puddle of muck. That's simply who they were.

"Maybe I can come with you next time," Tracy suggested to Dylan.

Dylan's face lit up. "That would be way awesome!"

"Yeah, and Jacob and I can find something less messy to do," Jen proposed. She grinned at him as she bumped his arm with her elbow in a show of solidarity.

"That'd be cool," Jacob said, nonchalantly.

Grinning at Dylan, Tracy shrugged. "Well, we are the coolest moms, ever," she said, with feigned arrogance, as she stole a glance at Jen.

They shared a knowing glance, and Tracy nodded her assent. Crouching down to the boys' level, Jen said, "How would you guys feel about Tracy becoming your second Mom, for real?"

Craning his neck, Dylan peered up at Tracy. "You mean you'd really, really be my other Mommy?" he stressed that second 'really,' his dark eyes bright with excitement.

Tracy brushed dark curls from his face affectionately. "I really, really would, Cariño," she smiled. "Your Mom asked me to marry her. And I said 'yes'."

"Really?" Dylan's eyes were wide as saucers.

"Really," Tracy chuckled.

Crushing his body against Tracy's, Dylan squeezed her tightly. Ignoring the mud, she wrapped her arms around him, lightly kissing the top of his head.

From her other side, Jacob hugged her quickly, and then glanced around to see who was watching. "Cool," he declared, attempting casualness. But inside, he was more excited than he would ever admit.

Tracy smiled. "Yes, Querido, cool," she said, giving him a quick peck on the cheek.

He blushed, but he didn't wipe it off. "Hey, where's Uncle Logan?" he asked, of Tracy's eldest brother. Whipping his ball cap around, he shoved it down backwards on his head. That's the way Uncle Logan always wore his. "I saw his car in the driveway."

Squeezing her eldest son's shoulder, Jen directed him toward the door. "He's in the den with Grandpa."

"Thanks, Mom," Jacob called out, as he sprinted toward the door. Logan had promised to play Guitar Hero with him.

Hands on Dylan's shoulders, Tracy directed their messy one toward the back door, as well. "What do you say you and I go get cleaned up?" It wasn't a suggestion, as she surveyed the caked mud on her own clothing. "Thank goodness I still have some old sweats and T-shirts around here somewhere."

Jen laughed at the sight of the two of them. "Why don't you go straight to the shower," she suggested. "I'll get him going, and then go dig something out for you."

"Thanks, Babe," Tracy said, warmly. She turned her attention toward Dylan again. "You take the main shower, m'kay? I'll use the one in Grandma and Grandpa's room."

"Yup." Dylan gazed up at Tracy with that dimpled smile. "I can't wait 'til we all get married," he said, sweetly.

Crouching down, Tracy kissed his grubby cheek. "Neither can I, Cariño," she said, softly. And then her eyes met Jen's, joy dancing within. "Neither can I…"

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—8:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"Well, Em sure sounds happy," Olivia noted, as she clicked the 'end call' button on her Blackberry. They were facing one another, cross-legged in the center of their bed, and just as they had the night previous, they had given their youngest daughter a call before bedtime, just to say goodnight.

"Yeah, I know. I wouldn't be surprised if she wanted to move in with them," Natalia joked.

"She is rather smitten with the girls," Olivia acknowledged.

Natalia smiled. "She's gonna be an awesome big sister."

"I know…," Olivia agreed, in a tone one could only call breezy. "You should've seen her in the bookstore the other day. Lena and I were sort of spying on her and Jordan, and we found them cuddled up in a beanbag chair in this little nook. Emma was reading to her, and the expression on Jordan's face was so cute… It was like hero worship, because Emma could read."

"Omigosh, that's so adorable!" Natalia's heart nearly melted at the story. "Ohhh, I'm so sorry I missed out on that."

"It was the cutest thing ever," Olivia grinned. "And then they had this cute little conversation about BFF's and boyfriends. And Emma made it clear that she had boy friends, but no boyfriends," she emphasized the difference, making Natalia laugh.

And then Olivia stopped, an eyebrow vaulting. "I already told you this story, didn't I?" She sounded confidently suspicious.

Cheeks flushing, Natalia admitted that indeed, Olivia had. "But I love listening to you tell stories," she said, sounding completely smitten. She leaned forward, placing a light kiss against Olivia's lips. "I could listen to you all day."

Olivia grinned. "You're good for my ego."

Chuckling, Natalia said, "Your ego doesn't need any help."

Looking sufficiently offended, Olivia grumped, "I'm glad you think that's funny." But her playful poke to Natalia's side gave her away.

Natalia giggled and squirmed, as Olivia continued to poke at her. "Stop it!" she squealed.

Stretching toward Natalia on her knees, Olivia kissed her playfully. "I have something for you."

Dark eyes danced with anticipation. "What is it?"

Grinning, Olivia said, "I'll be right back," as she hopped off their bed.

"Why don't you just bring your suitcase in here?" Natalia wittily suggested.

Glancing over her shoulder, Olivia cocked that eyebrow again. "Because then you wouldn't have an excuse to ogle my bare ass."

Blushing, Natalia bit her bottom lip adorably, to which Olivia smirked, and said, "Yeah, I thought so…," before sauntering out the door.

When she returned a few minutes later, Olivia had a frilly pink and white gift bag in her hands, and a satisfied smile on her face.

By the manner in which Olivia held it, Natalia could tell that it was heavy. "What did you do?" she asked, affectionately.

Climbing back into their bed, Olivia met Natalia in the center, greeting her with a kiss. "Open it."

A giddy grin teased at Natalia's lips as she reached for the bag, accepting it from Olivia's hands. Indeed, it was heavy—like a boulder in a bag. Excitedly, she stripped away the pink and white swirly tissue paper, and peered inside. Immediately, her eyes began to sparkle, drawing a smile of true delight from Olivia.

Natalia reached into the bag, carefully extricating the gift from the protective layer of foam peanuts. It was a stunning hand-sculptured glass wave, hand signed by Liam, the artisan who had created it. The base and the curl were formed to create a ripple effect, but they were flawlessly smooth to the touch. Tinted with the most exquisite shade of iridescent blue, they presented a sharp contrast to the caps of the wave, which were pearly-white with jagged edges, some foamy, others sharp. Natalia took her time, describing what she saw and how it made her feel, as she explored the textures with her fingertips.

And then she was smiling into those eyes that twinkled with delight over having presented her with a gift she so obviously cherished. "Thank you, Liv," she said, tenderly, as her fingertips brushed Olivia's cheek. "I've never had anything this beautiful before."

Flushing under Natalia's intent gaze, Olivia quietly said, "I wanted something unique, to remind us of our time on the beach."

"It's perfect," Natalia acknowledged. A single fingertip beneath Olivia's chin drew her closer, and Natalia kissed her tenderly. "Thank you."

"I'm glad you like it," Olivia said with quiet satisfaction. Natalia would shit a brick if she knew how much that sculpture had cost, but it was worth every penny just to see that look in her eyes.

"I love it," Natalia declared, bestowing another kiss to Olivia's lips. And then she looked excited. "Ooh! We have to find the perfect place for it."

"Right now?" Olivia looked disenchanted with the idea.

"Of course right now," Natalia said, as she hopped excitedly from their bed. "Come on…" She tugged at Olivia's arm. "You're the one who was complaining about us being in bed all day."

"I wasn't complaining," Olivia groused, as she allowed Natalia to drag her from her pillow-top perch. Despite her best effort, she couldn't hide her enjoyment of Natalia's excitement.

"Cranky-pants," Natalia humorously accused.

Pressing her body flush up against Natalia's backside, Olivia wrapped her arms tightly around her. "I'm not wearing any pants," she murmured against Natalia's ear.

A sharp, devilish laugh fell from Natalia's lips, and she grinned mischievously as she purposely rubbed her ass against Olivia's center. "Of that, I'm well aware," she husked, as Olivia groaned at the intimacy of the contact. "And the sooner you help me find a home for this little treasure, the sooner we can take advantage of that again…"

Not surprisingly, Olivia didn't need to be told twice.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… Tracy's Childhood Home—8:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Gathering in the den at the house where Tracy grew up, she and Jen shared dessert with the immediate family, in celebration of their engagement; the extended family having bid them all goodnight. Logan and Chris, Tracy's older brothers, took turns teasing Jen, asking if she was certain she wanted to commit to an entire lifetime of their baby sister's geeky ways. They pointed to her T-shirt, which boasted the phrase as proof of her extreme geekiness.

Jen simply laughed, and said, "I ate some too, guys. With whipped cream, even." She lifted her empty plate as proof. "And believe me, it was delicious!" The comment earned her two very deep groans; the tone of her voice having left them with no doubt that she was not talking about that pie.

"Whoa! TMI, Jen," Logan teased. He held his hands up in protest. "Way TMI!"

Tracy smirked at him. "You're just jealous, 'cause you're not gettin' any."

"Maybe if he'd find a girlfriend…," Chris ribbed.

"Look who's talking," Logan shot back.

"So… when can I expect some more grandbabies?" Michaela, asked, clasping her hands in her lap. Hinting for grandbabies before there was even a wedding date was what every self-respecting Italian Mamá did. Glancing at her own mother, she noted the approving glint in those dark eyes that were so much like her own.

Tracy's dad beamed at the idea. "Wouldn't mind having a little granddaughter running around here."

"Mamá! Pop!" Tracy exclaimed. "We just got engaged… We haven't even talked wedding dates yet."

"Yeah, Pop," Chris chimed in. "And it's not like it'll happen on its own." The comment earned him a scowl from his grandmother.

"Well, that was rude," Logan snapped.

"What?" Chris said, a bit defensively. "It's not like she grew a dick when she started fucking women."

"Cristiano!" Rosalie snapped, calling him by his given name in that familiar Italian intonation.

"Don't be such an ass," Logan barked.

Jen laughed, and Tracy just rolled her eyes. She was used to Chris giving her a hard time. He wasn't homophobic, just an ass sometimes.

"Boys!" Michaela chastised. "This is celebration, not a skirmish. Knock it off."

"Yes, Ma'am," they said in unison. Instantly, they both found their pie completely engaging.

Jen smiled affectionately as she regarded Michaela, and the way she handled her sons. It provided a glimpse of what her wife would look and act like fifteen years down the road. The mere thought of it filled her with mirth.

Brie couldn't hold back her excitement. "Are you guys really gonna have babies?" Just the thought of it made her giddy. "I could babysit."

Glancing at her sister, Tracy smiled. "Not right away," she answered, in the same breath that Jen exclaimed, "No!"

Tracy laughed, and nudged Jen's shoulder playfully. "That's what you said about the…"

Jen held her hand up, halting the comment. "Don't even go there," she warned. But she couldn't hold back the smile as she shook her head. The puppy that was crated in the utility room at their house was enough to tell her she was fucked. She just wasn't ready to acknowledge that just yet. She set her empty plate aside. "Let us get through the custody hearing first, okay?" she said, almost pleadingly. She was glad the boys were playing video games with Ronan in his bedroom.

Reaching over, Tracy took Jen's hand, entwining their fingers. "Everything's gonna be fine, Cara," she quietly reassured.

Nodding, Jen sniffed back unbidden tears. "Yeah…"

And then they were both being enveloped in the warm embrace of Tracy's family, each member offering words of encouragement and reassurance that no Judge in his right mind would take those boys away from their mothers. To this family, the impending adoption was already a done deal.

When the tears subsided, and the usual teasing banter returned, Grandma Rosie declared that it was time for the two of them to go home and celebrate their engagement "properly," as she put it. Meaning, the boys would be spending another night with Grandma and Grandpa. Michaela and Glenn readily agreed, insisting they wouldn't have it any other way.

With that, Jen and Tracy helped Brie clear the dishes, and then sought out the boys to tell them goodnight. Not surprisingly, both Jacob and Dylan were elated with the idea of spending another night with Uncle Ronan who was, amusingly enough, only a few years their senior.

At the front door, they wished everyone goodnight, and then Tracy asked Brie to walk them to their car. She was looking for a moment with her sister. With a silent, knowing look, Jen released Tracy's hand, and climbed into the car. More than anyone, she understood the need.

With a bittersweet heart, Jen watched Brie pull Tracy close, hugging her tightly. The girl was three years Tracy's junior, and looked exactly like her. Tracy was the one person in the whole world Brie looked up to more than anyone else, and Tracy absolutely adored her—it was evident in the way they interacted. They reminded Jen of the way things had been between her and her own sisters once upon a time, and for the first time in a very long while, she allowed herself a moment to miss them.

Holding Tracy tightly, Brie congratulated her big sister. "God, I'm so happy for you, Tray," she said, sincerely. It was the nickname she had given her sister as a child. She understood what a big deal it was the Jen had finally agreed to marriage.

"Thank you, sorellina," Tracy said, warmly referring to Brie as "little sister." "I'm absolutely over the moon," she beamed.

Brie kissed Tracy's cheek. "It looks beautiful on you."

Tracy felt her face flush, and she quickly moved the conversation forward. "I was wondering… Will you stand up for me?"

Dark eyes danced with excitement. "I was hoping you would ask me," Brie confessed.

The expression in her eyes sincere, Tracy said, "I can't imagine having anyone else as my maid of honor. Well, y'know, since Jen is my bride, and all," she grinned.

Brie threw herself back into Tracy's arms, jumping up and down as she hugged her again.

Laughing, Tracy said, "I'll take that as a 'yes'."

All Brie could do was nod. She was too busy crying.

Sniffing back tears, Jen rejoiced for them as she watched. And then Tracy was kissing her sister goodbye, and Jen wiped away her tears. She didn't want to ruin this moment for her bride.

Climbing into the car, Tracy took one look at her and knew. Wordlessly, she pulled her close, holding her, comforting her, as she cried. She didn't let go until every tear had dried. And then she kissed her, and took her home for their private celebration.

Saturday, May 2, 2009… The Farmhouse of Love—10:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time

"We should just have the kitchen staff cater dinner tomorrow evening." Olivia made an executive decision. They were lying in bed, both of them drifting lazily in and out of conscious thought as they talked about random things.

"Why?" Natalia sounded surprised, but not reticent.

Olivia feathered a kiss against Natalia's temple. "Just to make it easier," she said, casually. "Technically, we're still on vacation, and I'd rather have the time with you."

Oddly enough, Natalia didn't argue. "Would you like me to call Jacques in the morning to arrange it?"

Smiling at the small victory, Olivia said, "No, I'll take care of it." She had something special in mind. "But thank you."

"You're welcome," Natalia said, sleepily, as she snuggled against the warmth of Olivia's body. The feeling would never get old.

"Maybe we should invite Jen and Tracy and the boys to join us. You know, to thank them for all their help," Olivia suggested.

"I think that's a great idea, Honey." Natalia sounded proud and pleased. Soft lips skittered across Olivia's breast.

"Good," Olivia said. Her hand brushed up Natalia's thigh, landing on a curvy hip. "I'll call Jen in the morning." It was settled.

Thoughts drifted. They found that they needn't make love again—they could simply share in their ruminations on the sultry theme that had been their first blissful experiences of making love together.

Long, contented moments elapsed. And then out of the quiet darkness came Olivia's name, whispered as softly as the caress of fingertips on her belly.

"Hmm?"

"I love you…"

Her eyes fluttering closed, Olivia's heart skipped a beat. She nuzzled against Natalia's cheek. "I love you too," she whispered. "Now sleep…"

Quiet settled over them again, and as night slowly turned to morning, they lost track of who was holding whom. Not that it mattered in the least. They were simply being together, their dreams filled with ruminations on a sultry theme called love.

TBC… in Chapter 12—Old Friends, New Ventures, and Unexpected Alliances…