Chapter 3

"The... combination of manual stimulation of the gluteal region and oral stimulation of the mammaries is proving... most efficacious at increasing sexual arousal," Dr. Brennan reported. "It is making the... continual recording of events slightly more challenging, with both the distraction to my mind and the... increased shortness of breath."

"Does that mean you're enjoying yourself, Dr. Brennan?"

"Oh, absolutely."

"Then, shall we continue?"

"Oh, absolutely."

With that, Seeley placed a single fingertip at the very top of her backside, and with a positively feathery touch drew it down and forward. "Please describe what I'm doing, and what you're feeling, Dr. Brennan."

"You're running a fingertip down the cleft of my buttocks, very lightly, towards the genitals. You've just reached my perineum, which is extremely sensitive, and caressing very lightly... I sense a second fingertip, and you're moving again towards my genitalia... and now the fingers are parting, and they are tracing the fringes of my pubic hair up and around my vulva, avoiding my genitals, continuing the stimulation without directly contacting the most sensitive parts."

"Gotta save something for later, Dr. Brennan. Some things must be built towards, and not rushed."

"Agreed, but I believe that my genitalia are prepared for direct stimulation."

"Prepared, but not fully prepared. All in good time."

"Very well."

Seeley continued to glide his fingertips back and forth across the top fringe of her pubic hair. "Dr. Brennan, could I engage in a brief tangent here?"

"On what topic?"

"Pubic hair. Its biological, anthropological, and sociological significance, and more specifically your own choices in such matters and the meanings thereof."

"It's hardly tangential, considering what you're currently doing, Agent Booth, but if you like..."

"I would."

"Biologically, pubic hair serves several useful functions. It acts as a lubricating surface, protecting the vulva from direct contact from potentially chafing surfaces. It traps pheromones, the subliminal scents associated with sex. It draws attention to the genital region, especially with the delta-shape serving as an arrow pointing towards the genitals themselves. Further, it conceals the actual genitals, preserving a sense of mystery and modesty about them."

"And in your own case? Isn't the current fashion trend to extensively trim the pubic area, or shave it bare completely?"

"Which is something I do not understand. A hareless pubis is an indicator of sexual immaturity. I am quite proud and satisfied in my sexual maturity, and have no desire to resemble an adolescent. I trim my pubic hair, but only to keep it within the boundaries of my customary swimwear and other apparel, and to accent the natural triangular shape. I have also noted that in some people, the pubic fringe presents a clearly-defined landmark for sexual intimacy – once that barrier has been reached, there is a sense of accomplishment and closeness. Finally, the hair lends itself to sensual stimulation, such as you are providing now."

"Which you're enjoying?"

"As I've indicated, it is quite pleasurable."

"So pleasurable that I should continue, or should I go on?"

"I believe I am more than ready for your next move."