p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"strongMother O' Mine/strong/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I've never seen someone turn three different shades of red so fast until now. Margrete flipped through the bulky album wiping dust bunnies from the pictures./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Oh, this one I just love." I leaned in closer as she pointed to the small black and white photo of a little boy in shoes that were clearly too big for him. "Rickie here was just turning two and his father and I had just finished the barn. He wanted to work in the mud along with us." She chuckled pointing out the mud that crusted the shoes. I thought about chancing a look at Rick, so I did. Uncomfortable was one way to describe his expression. It was a look he maintained through his baby photo's which were adorable although his forehead was a little big. I smiled as his mother gushed over how adorable her child was./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I can get the other album if you like." She said after closing the third album. "These ones were of Rick's days in high school."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Mom I am positive she doesn't want to see that. Besides, we're starved for food and everything smelled wonderful." Rick helped his mother off the chair and ushered her into the kitchen. I started after them, feeling something so unexpected. Envy. That dynamic, the bond between a mother and her child was something I never fully experienced. There was also a twinge of shame in my jealousy. It was clear as day Rick adored his mother and Margrete spoke nothing but high praises where Rick was concerned./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You're awfully quiet." Rick pulled me away from what was becoming my very own pity party. "What's wrong?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm fine. Just thinking about a few things." I wasn't sure if I was ready to disclose it either. "So food is done I take it."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kneeling before me, he wrapped his hands around my own. "That can wait. I shouldn't have to say this but if something's bothering you, you can just talk to me, Michonne."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It's nothing really." I pressed. "I don't want to keep your mother waiting." The moment I got up I questioned myself. My reason for shutting down on Rick the way I did. I just wasn't ready to talk about that. I just… Sighing I mustered up a smile for Rick's mother. Someone who's been nothing but kind since my arrival and given our situation I wasn't expecting open arms and a warm meal./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Margrete shuffled through the kitchen placing mats and coasters down for the three of us. "Do you need any help with that?" I questioned after she slipped on a pair of red mittens before opening the baker. She shook her head./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Of course not." She says waving me off. "You just sit down while Rick and I get everything in order."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Are you sure?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Yes, yes. You are my guest after all." She pulled a brown roasted chicken from the oven and my appetite made itself known then. I didn't argue with her any further and took my place at the table. The kitchen was homely, with family pictures and small trinkets lining the walls it made me long for something I missed out on so long ago./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"My hand fell to my stomach. Already, I loved someone so dearly. This was something I wanted him to be around. I want stability for him and I wouldn't settle for anything less. A cup of water was placed before me and not long after Rick found his seat beside my own with his mother at the head of the table. Before the food was shared out we all bowed our heads to say grace./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Amen." We all say in union then passed around the side dishes./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""So, how does this story go?" Margrete asked passing me a basket of dinner rolls. "I want to know all about it!" She said with a sweet smile. I nearly choked thinking back to how we really happened. I wasn't going to tell his mother anything about that. She was such a sweet lady. I nudged Rick while I constructed an alternative version in my head. Something cleaner./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Um, I taught Michonne advance criminal law at Hilston." Rick's mother was silent for a moment; she peered at us with narrowed eyes./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""So she was your student when you met. Did I get that right?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It was only after the semester ended that this," I motioned between Rick and myself, feeling the need to explain, "started."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Good," Margrete laughed wholeheartedly. "I was thinking Rick here was giving you good grades for god knows what. Not that there's a problem with it, if I hadn't met his father I would've slept with all my professors. Would've been done with school a lot sooner."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Mom." Rick winced. "That's a little too much."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Rick here is also quite the looker." I laughed already appreciating her relaxed attitude./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""He is." I agreed. "We weren't in touch for a while but as you can see we continued where we left off." After that, the conversation kept flowing between us./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""There has to be more to it but I know you both had a long drive so I won't pry. I was asking Rick about a baby shower earlier and I know it's a little early but I was wondering if you and your mother had anything planned?" I froze unsure of how to respond my feet began its anxious pattern lightly hitting the floor./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Mom, can we talk about this some other time..." Rick says after noticing my discomfort but I place a hand on his forearm. I didn't want my past to be some dark mystery as it wasn't much. Slowly, my feet stopped its routine./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""We aren't exactly on good terms and thank you for offering." There was a sad look on his mother's face at my confession./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe things can change? As a mother, I can't imagine having no communication with Rick."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I've tried a few times but my choices aren't exactly something she supports and she's very steadfast about what she supports."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""If she loves you and I'm sure she does I think she'll come around. Maybe we can call and talk to her…" I looked at Rick, he didn't know any better, he truly didn't. I just knew deep down rekindling a relationship with my mother would not end well, especially for Rick. Needless to say, I didn't want to unveil anymore about my mother if I had to./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Rick's right, I'm very excited about becoming a grandmother and I'm sure whatever squabble she has will wither away the minute you tell her." It was worth a shot, right?/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Standing up, I took it upon myself to gather our used dishes and insisted when Margrete nearly rushed to my side that I had everything under control. "It's the least I can do, you worked hard enough already. Everything smelled and tasted great."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"She blushed at the compliment. "You know I like you a lot more than the other lady Rick brought home. That one was very picky." Holding back a smile I carried the dishes over to the sink. "Rick?" She called out to him./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm right behind you." Margrete places a hand over her chest genuinely startled yet only for a moment. Rick hands me an empty pitcher, concern creeping up in his eyes./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Did you show Michonne around? You know around the barn. I just painted that yesterday so it could still be a bit wet." It wasn't noticeable before but there was a slight tremor in her hand that only seemed to grow worse./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Tomorrow is another day and I think we all should call it a night." Margaret opened her mouth to say something else. "I promise I'll show her around tomorrow. Do you need any help before we head in?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Margaret shook her head on a scowl. "I'm not that old I think I can handle myself, Rickie."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"After tidying up in the kitchen we said goodnight and turned in for the day./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"…../p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Rick flopped back against his bed the minute we got back to his room. "That went well." I kicked off my own shoes grimacing as it revealed swollen feet. At this point, I just wanted to soak in a warm bath with scented foam surrounding me./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It did." I agreed, reaching down to knead the sole of my foot. "She did say she liked me, so that's always a good sign right?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Hmm, she wears her heart on her sleeve but that verbal confirmation made me breathe a little easier." I slapped his thigh playfully./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You told me I didn't have to worry about that."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I was right and it's all that matters." Silence enveloped us but only for a moment. "Are you ever going to tell me more about your mother?" I knew this was coming and as I thought back to what happened earlier on the couch I felt guilty for keeping things away from him coupled along with the fact that he's told me anything I wanted to know without question./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""What do you want to know?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Rick sat up with a surprised look on his face. "You're serious?" I nodded. "I know this is a tough topic for you."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Learning to open up is something I'm not good at but I'm trying."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I know... So how did you two drift apart?" I closed my eyes silently recalling the times when my mother and I actually enjoyed each other's company. It was those times when she'd have clients over to our apartment. We'd both sit near an open door while she did nails, talking up a storm about her client's drama. It wasn't ideal but that's how we bonded./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You already know she hates my profession. As to why? Well, that's a question only she could answer. I just remember telling her about my aspiration. At first, she thought it was a phase, some idea I got from watching one too many legal shows. So by the time my teachers told her about courses and programs related to what I wanted to do she just shut down on me. She made a few attempts at getting me to switch even told me nursing was a better choice. As you can imagine two stubborn souls don't make for a good compromise. Unknowingly I had to choose between my mother and my passion. Honestly, I can't help but feel like a made the wrong choice but then I got a mix of faux and real cases, saw a courtroom, and forgot about everything."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""This is what bothered you earlier, isn't it?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It's silly now that I really think about it."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""No. Don't say that. We all handle hurt differently and despite everything, I'm sure you still love her." How could I not? Despite her treating me like an outcast I couldn't give her the same treatment. It wasn't in me./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I do. It's just been so long. She could've moved, gotten a new number, who knows. And seeing you and your mother earlier, the bond you two have it made me yearn for what she and I used to have."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Hopefully, maybe I'll be able to meet her someday and you two can start anew?" I covered my face to hide and audible cough./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""What was that?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""What?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""That little cough. There's something you aren't telling me." He stated. "What is it?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"My hand fell to my side. "My mother is Jamaican, a very conceited, obtuse one at that."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""And? I can't exactly tell where you're going with this."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Let's just say if I show up with you in tow rest assured she'll become invisible again." Rick tilted his head at the euphemism./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You were worried about meeting my mother but your mother is a racist?" I couldn't keep the wince off my face. My mother was pro-black to the core./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""She wasn't exactly a problem until you persuaded me into talking to her again," I argued. "Look, it's been years and people can change. I'm sure she's adjusted accordingly." I was just thankful her ideologies didn't rub off on me and I attended schools with a blend of people./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"For a moment he looked visibly stressed prompting me to reach out and rub his shoulders. Soon after, the tension on his face slipped away as quickly as it appears. Gently lifting my hands off his shoulder he kissed the palm of it. "You're right and I'm not going to stop you from giving her a call because of that."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It definitely won't be today or tomorrow, I'm in no rush but when I get to that road I'll know." I crossed my legs feeling a nagging urge only the white throne could relieve. I only took a few sips of water but it came back to hound me regardless./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I need the restroom," I mentioned quickly pitching off the bed./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Is everything alright?" He asked. Besides the feeling of my bladder working against me? Absolutely nothing./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I was nearly skipping in one area by the time Rick directed me to the bathroom. "Down the hall on your right, its the first door. It's not hard to miss." I didn't wait for him to say anything more after that. I made a quick dash down the hall and he was right. I wasn't hard to miss as there was a picture of a babe potty training. I made a mental note to question Rick about this. There were lots of family pictures scattered around the home but this was a bit much./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I couldn't deny the smile on my face at the look of the child's goofy expression. And I couldn't help but fall a little deeper./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"…/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Later, I woke to the feel of something warm, wet, and soft wrapping around my nipple. Instinctively, my hands ran down Rick's back before my brain caught up with his actions. I sighed, enjoying the heat climbing up my spine. My hand soon found its way into his hair feeling the curls that lay against his neck./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Raising his head he says, "I might just cut my hair." He teased but I felt threatened at the idea./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You wouldn't, I like it just the way it is." My hand didn't move an inch away from it either./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Morning." He says just before his mouth comes down on my own in a slow, demanding kiss that made me melt inside./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Good morning." I manage between kisses. "Don't you look well-rested," I say taking in his face. He looked young; there was a youthful air around him that tugged at my heart. I wanted it to be a permanent fixture on his face. Instead of responding he tucked his face in the nape of my neck moving between my legs which were all too accommodating./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He kept silent but his lips spoke volumes, leaving a trail of wet kisses against my neck, across my throat, up to my chin and back to my lips. Which he pressed a few light kisses against before his mouth claimed my own./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Rick." The gasp slipped past my lips when his hand slipped between us slowly slipping off the only thing separating us before sliding back between my legs cupping my sex./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""We need to be a little quieter than that." I should've been mortified with his mother just being a few feet below us but he made my mind numb with pleasure and the anticipation of more to come. So I nodded and I felt his tongue against my neck before his lips. He emitted a low rumble when my hips rise up to meet his own./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"My arousal was rekindled tenfold, yet instead of feeling relief, I felt frustration as he pulled his hips from my own, taking away the friction that made me shiver with need. Peeling my eyes open I was met with blue ones. A blue that revealed an abundance of emotion, they hid nothing. I waited to feel some sort of confliction; I waited for an emotion that never came, for the doubt that never took hold./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You're crying." He says, his lips tilting up ever so slightly. Breaking our gaze I quickly reached up to wipe away the water sliding down the side of my face but he beat me to it. Rick's thumbs wiped away my waterworks for me. Even after he dried my tears he kept his hand on both sides of my face./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I love you." There was a satisfied look on his face before he gave me a smile and repeated himself. "I love you." I wrap my arms around his neck, knowing and accepting that he was that only man that would ever make me feel the way I did. I wanted to roll over in the mornings and be met with his face. I wanted to stay wrapped in his arms, stay drugged by his kisses and I wanted to keep his love all to myself./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I needed him./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I love you, too." I moaned out because at that exact moment he shifted his hips, lining his length up with my entrance he filled me. All I wanted to do was scream at the top of my lungs. He went slow, ending each stroke with a light kiss on my lips./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Say that again." He requested, moving my hands from his hair and placing it above my head. With our fingers laced together, he kept a steady, achingly slow pace./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I love you, Professor Rick Grimes," I say sweetly and he seemed to get the message. Soon his thrust got a little harder, a little faster and I couldn't keep the moans from tumbling from my mouth./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I've never seen someone turn three different shades of red so fast until now. Margrete flipped through the bulky album wiping dust bunnies from the pictures./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Oh, this one I just love." I leaned in closer as she pointed to the small black and white photo of a little boy in shoes that were clearly too big for him. "Rickie here was just turning two and his father and I had just finished the barn. He wanted to work in the mud along with us." She chuckled pointing out the mud that crusted the shoes. I thought about chancing a look at Rick, so I did. Uncomfortable was one way to describe his expression. It was a look he maintained through his baby photo's which were adorable although his forehead was a little big. I smiled as his mother gushed over how adorable her child was./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I can get the other album if you like." She said after closing the third album. "These ones were of Rick's days in high school."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Mom I am positive she doesn't want to see that. Besides, we're starved for food and everything smelled wonderful." Rick helped his mother off the chair and ushered her into the kitchen. I started after them, feeling something so unexpected. Envy. That dynamic, the bond between a mother and her child was something I never fully experienced. There was also a twinge of shame in my jealousy. It was clear as day Rick adored his mother and Margrete spoke nothing but high praises where Rick was concerned./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You're awfully quiet." Rick pulled me away from what was becoming my very own pity party. "What's wrong?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm fine. Just thinking about a few things." I wasn't sure if I was ready to disclose it either. "So food is done I take it."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kneeling before me, he wrapped his hands around my own. "That can wait. I shouldn't have to say this but if something's bothering you, you can just talk to me, Michonne."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It's nothing really." I pressed. "I don't want to keep your mother waiting." The moment I got up I questioned myself. My reason for shutting down on Rick the way I did. I just wasn't ready to talk about that. I just… Sighing I mustered up a smile for Rick's mother. Someone who's been nothing but kind since my arrival and given our situation I wasn't expecting open arms and a warm meal./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Margrete shuffled through the kitchen placing mats and coasters down for the three of us. "Do you need any help with that?" I questioned after she slipped on a pair of red mittens before opening the baker. She shook her head./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Of course not." She says waving me off. "You just sit down while Rick and I get everything in order."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Are you sure?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Yes, yes. You are my guest after all." She pulled a brown roasted chicken from the oven and my appetite made itself known then. I didn't argue with her any further and took my place at the table. The kitchen was homely, with family pictures and small trinkets lining the walls it made me long for something I missed out on so long ago./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"My hand fell to my stomach. Already, I loved someone so dearly. This was something I wanted him to be around. I want stability for him and I wouldn't settle for anything less. A cup of water was placed before me and not long after Rick found his seat beside my own with his mother at the head of the table. Before the food was shared out we all bowed our heads to say grace./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Amen." We all say in union then passed around the side dishes./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""So, how does this story go?" Margrete asked passing me a basket of dinner rolls. "I want to know all about it!" She said with a sweet smile. I nearly choked thinking back to how we really happened. I wasn't going to tell his mother anything about that. She was such a sweet lady. I nudged Rick while I constructed an alternative version in my head. Something cleaner./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Um, I taught Michonne advance criminal law at Hilston." Rick's mother was silent for a moment; she peered at us with narrowed eyes./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""So she was your student when you met. Did I get that right?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It was only after the semester ended that this," I motioned between Rick and myself, feeling the need to explain, "started."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Good," Margrete laughed wholeheartedly. "I was thinking Rick here was giving you good grades for god knows what. Not that there's a problem with it, if I hadn't met his father I would've slept with all my professors. Would've been done with school a lot sooner."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Mom." Rick winced. "That's a little too much."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Rick here is also quite the looker." I laughed already appreciating her relaxed attitude./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""He is." I agreed. "We weren't in touch for a while but as you can see we continued where we left off." After that, the conversation kept flowing between us./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""There has to be more to it but I know you both had a long drive so I won't pry. I was asking Rick about a baby shower earlier and I know it's a little early but I was wondering if you and your mother had anything planned?" I froze unsure of how to respond my feet began its anxious pattern lightly hitting the floor./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Mom, can we talk about this some other time..." Rick says after noticing my discomfort but I place a hand on his forearm. I didn't want my past to be some dark mystery as it wasn't much. Slowly, my feet stopped its routine./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""We aren't exactly on good terms and thank you for offering." There was a sad look on his mother's face at my confession./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe things can change? As a mother, I can't imagine having no communication with Rick."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I've tried a few times but my choices aren't exactly something she supports and she's very steadfast about what she supports."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""If she loves you and I'm sure she does I think she'll come around. Maybe we can call and talk to her…" I looked at Rick, he didn't know any better, he truly didn't. I just knew deep down rekindling a relationship with my mother would not end well, especially for Rick. Needless to say, I didn't want to unveil anymore about my mother if I had to./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Rick's right, I'm very excited about becoming a grandmother and I'm sure whatever squabble she has will wither away the minute you tell her." It was worth a shot, right?/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Standing up, I took it upon myself to gather our used dishes and insisted when Margrete nearly rushed to my side that I had everything under control. "It's the least I can do, you worked hard enough already. Everything smelled and tasted great."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"She blushed at the compliment. "You know I like you a lot more than the other lady Rick brought home. That one was very picky." Holding back a smile I carried the dishes over to the sink. "Rick?" She called out to him./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm right behind you." Margrete places a hand over her chest genuinely startled yet only for a moment. Rick hands me an empty pitcher, concern creeping up in his eyes./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Did you show Michonne around? You know around the barn. I just painted that yesterday so it could still be a bit wet." It wasn't noticeable before but there was a slight tremor in her hand that only seemed to grow worse./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Tomorrow is another day and I think we all should call it a night." Margaret opened her mouth to say something else. "I promise I'll show her around tomorrow. Do you need any help before we head in?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Margaret shook her head on a scowl. "I'm not that old I think I can handle myself, Rickie."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"After tidying up in the kitchen we said goodnight and turned in for the day./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"…../p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Rick flopped back against his bed the minute we got back to his room. "That went well." I kicked off my own shoes grimacing as it revealed swollen feet. At this point, I just wanted to soak in a warm bath with scented foam surrounding me./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It did." I agreed, reaching down to knead the sole of my foot. "She did say she liked me, so that's always a good sign right?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Hmm, she wears her heart on her sleeve but that verbal confirmation made me breathe a little easier." I slapped his thigh playfully./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You told me I didn't have to worry about that."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I was right and it's all that matters." Silence enveloped us but only for a moment. "Are you ever going to tell me more about your mother?" I knew this was coming and as I thought back to what happened earlier on the couch I felt guilty for keeping things away from him coupled along with the fact that he's told me anything I wanted to know without question./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""What do you want to know?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Rick sat up with a surprised look on his face. "You're serious?" I nodded. "I know this is a tough topic for you."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Learning to open up is something I'm not good at but I'm trying."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I know... So how did you two drift apart?" I closed my eyes silently recalling the times when my mother and I actually enjoyed each other's company. It was those times when she'd have clients over to our apartment. We'd both sit near an open door while she did nails, talking up a storm about her client's drama. It wasn't ideal but that's how we bonded./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You already know she hates my profession. As to why? Well, that's a question only she could answer. I just remember telling her about my aspiration. At first, she thought it was a phase, some idea I got from watching one too many legal shows. So by the time my teachers told her about courses and programs related to what I wanted to do she just shut down on me. She made a few attempts at getting me to switch even told me nursing was a better choice. As you can imagine two stubborn souls don't make for a good compromise. Unknowingly I had to choose between my mother and my passion. Honestly, I can't help but feel like a made the wrong choice but then I got a mix of faux and real cases, saw a courtroom, and forgot about everything."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""This is what bothered you earlier, isn't it?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It's silly now that I really think about it."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""No. Don't say that. We all handle hurt differently and despite everything, I'm sure you still love her." How could I not? Despite her treating me like an outcast I couldn't give her the same treatment. It wasn't in me./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I do. It's just been so long. She could've moved, gotten a new number, who knows. And seeing you and your mother earlier, the bond you two have it made me yearn for what she and I used to have."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Hopefully, maybe I'll be able to meet her someday and you two can start anew?" I covered my face to hide and audible cough./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""What was that?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""What?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""That little cough. There's something you aren't telling me." He stated. "What is it?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"My hand fell to my side. "My mother is Jamaican, a very conceited, obtuse one at that."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""And? I can't exactly tell where you're going with this."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Let's just say if I show up with you in tow rest assured she'll become invisible again." Rick tilted his head at the euphemism./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You were worried about meeting my mother but your mother is a racist?" I couldn't keep the wince off my face. My mother was pro-black to the core./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""She wasn't exactly a problem until you persuaded me into talking to her again," I argued. "Look, it's been years and people can change. I'm sure she's adjusted accordingly." I was just thankful her ideologies didn't rub off on me and I attended schools with a blend of people./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"For a moment he looked visibly stressed prompting me to reach out and rub his shoulders. Soon after, the tension on his face slipped away as quickly as it appears. Gently lifting my hands off his shoulder he kissed the palm of it. "You're right and I'm not going to stop you from giving her a call because of that."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""It definitely won't be today or tomorrow, I'm in no rush but when I get to that road I'll know." I crossed my legs feeling a nagging urge only the white throne could relieve. I only took a few sips of water but it came back to hound me regardless./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I need the restroom," I mentioned quickly pitching off the bed./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Is everything alright?" He asked. Besides the feeling of my bladder working against me? Absolutely nothing./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I was nearly skipping in one area by the time Rick directed me to the bathroom. "Down the hall on your right, its the first door. It's not hard to miss." I didn't wait for him to say anything more after that. I made a quick dash down the hall and he was right. I wasn't hard to miss as there was a picture of a babe potty training. I made a mental note to question Rick about this. There were lots of family pictures scattered around the home but this was a bit much./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I couldn't deny the smile on my face at the look of the child's goofy expression. And I couldn't help but fall a little deeper./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"…/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Later, I woke to the feel of something warm, wet, and soft wrapping around my nipple. Instinctively, my hands ran down Rick's back before my brain caught up with his actions. I sighed, enjoying the heat climbing up my spine. My hand soon found its way into his hair feeling the curls that lay against his neck./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Raising his head he says, "I might just cut my hair." He teased but I felt threatened at the idea./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You wouldn't, I like it just the way it is." My hand didn't move an inch away from it either./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Morning." He says just before his mouth comes down on my own in a slow, demanding kiss that made me melt inside./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Good morning." I manage between kisses. "Don't you look well-rested," I say taking in his face. He looked young; there was a youthful air around him that tugged at my heart. I wanted it to be a permanent fixture on his face. Instead of responding he tucked his face in the nape of my neck moving between my legs which were all too accommodating./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He kept silent but his lips spoke volumes, leaving a trail of wet kisses against my neck, across my throat, up to my chin and back to my lips. Which he pressed a few light kisses against before his mouth claimed my own./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Rick." The gasp slipped past my lips when his hand slipped between us slowly slipping off the only thing separating us before sliding back between my legs cupping my sex./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""We need to be a little quieter than that." I should've been mortified with his mother just being a few feet below us but he made my mind numb with pleasure and the anticipation of more to come. So I nodded and I felt his tongue against my neck before his lips. He emitted a low rumble when my hips rise up to meet his own./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"My arousal was rekindled tenfold, yet instead of feeling relief, I felt frustration as he pulled his hips from my own, taking away the friction that made me shiver with need. Peeling my eyes open I was met with blue ones. A blue that revealed an abundance of emotion, they hid nothing. I waited to feel some sort of confliction; I waited for an emotion that never came, for the doubt that never took hold./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You're crying." He says, his lips tilting up ever so slightly. Breaking our gaze I quickly reached up to wipe away the water sliding down the side of my face but he beat me to it. Rick's thumbs wiped away my waterworks for me. Even after he dried my tears he kept his hand on both sides of my face./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I love you." There was a satisfied look on his face before he gave me a smile and repeated himself. "I love you." I wrap my arms around his neck, knowing and accepting that he was that only man that would ever make me feel the way I did. I wanted to roll over in the mornings and be met with his face. I wanted to stay wrapped in his arms, stay drugged by his kisses and I wanted to keep his love all to myself./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"I needed him./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I love you, too." I moaned out because at that exact moment he shifted his hips, lining his length up with my entrance he filled me. All I wanted to do was scream at the top of my lungs. He went slow, ending each stroke with a light kiss on my lips./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Say that again." He requested, moving my hands from his hair and placing it above my head. With our fingers laced together, he kept a steady, achingly slow pace./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I love you, Professor Rick Grimes," I say sweetly and he seemed to get the message. Soon his thrust got a little harder, a little faster and I couldn't keep the moans from tumbling from my mouth./p