Fortunately the cottage is in tip top shape so we can get Elena moved in right away. There's no need to stay any longer at Happy Dale or for her to spend a few nights at my place. We're moving her things directly into her little house. Since she was stuck at Happy Dale for five long years, she really doesn't have many belongings. Also she has promised to tell me everything about herself. Although anxious to know, I trust her to know when she feels the time is right. I'm not going to push her for now. I dismantled one of the beds in my home for her to use till she can get one of her own. The two of us went to a second hand furniture store to pick up some things for her. We bought a dresser, a couch and a recliner as well as a kitchen set for her to use right now. They were all in pretty good shape and reasonably priced. I offered to help her out and buy what she needed but my girl is proud. After telling me in no uncertain terms that she was not going to let me keep buying her things, I suggested the used furniture place.
"I think we need to get you something to decorate your walls a little bit."
"I don't really want to put holes in the walls. I mean, at some point he may want to sell this house." She gives me a pensive look before dropping onto the couch, taking the seat beside me.
"Thank you, Damon for everything. I know I don't have much for belongings but thanks for helping me move. You've done so much for me already."
"I wanted to help, Elena. When I'm with you, the world seems a little brighter if that makes any sense at all." Leaning in, I press a kiss to her lips. She leans her head against my shoulder and the two of us just close our eyes for a few moments and relax.
"I suppose we should get the bed put together. I brought you a set of sheets. I hope that's okay?"
"Damon, you've done enough."
"I enjoy helping people Elena. No one was more surprised than me when I realized how much I enjoy helping out at Happy Dale. I'm almost done with my time there too but I'm seriously considering volunteering. I really like spending time with the kids, especially Anna. I can feel good about myself for a little while, you know?"
"Why wouldn't you feel good about yourself?"
"Sometimes I just don't like myself very much."
"Damon?"
"I don't want to talk about it today. Let's get your bed put together and made. We need to get you some silverware, dishes and cookware too."
"Do you know of another second hand stores?"
"I do indeed." Standing up, I offer her my hand. When she latches on, I pull her up and into my arms. We stare into each others eyes for a few moments. Tentatively, I lean forward and join our lips in a passionate kiss. When the need for air arises, I pull back, panting for a breath. With a shaky hand, I push a stray strand of hair behind her ear before pressing another kiss to her forehead.
"Let's go." When she offers me her hand, I lace our fingers together. Although Elena doesn't have a vehicle, apparently they offer driver's education classes at the facility. After locking up the place, I hand her my car keys so we can drive to another consignment shop. After picking through the hodge-podge of all manner of things, we find a few pieces of cookware, some dishes and some mismatched silverware but it'll work for now. Once all of that was loaded into the car, I insist we go to a store so we can get her a TV and some bath towels and toiletries. Although a bit disgruntled, she finally agrees when I promise to subtract a little from each paycheck till it's all paid back.
As exasperating as it is, Elena does have an independent streak which is a good thing really. I want her to be able to make it on her own. I hope she'll let me be there to support her on this journey though. I know we haven't known each other very long and we virtually know nothing about each other but for whatever reason, I feel a connection to Elena. I want to know her, all of her, good and bad just as I want her to know me.
We stop at a Chinese place for some carryout on the way back to the cottage. After giving my dad a call to tell him that I'd be spending the evening with Elena, I unload the trunk while she gets our food ready. Once I have everything in the house, I exhale heavily, walking into the kitchen to find her.
"I was just about to come to get you. Food's on," she says with a smile, handing me a paper plate and silverware. I set it down on the table then excuse myself to wash my hands and face. When I come back, we sit down and enjoy our food. When we're done eating, we clean up quickly then go to the living room, collapsing on the couch.
"I should hook up your TV for you." Yawning widely, I cover my mouth.
Shaking her head back and forth she says, "No, you've worked hard enough today. I think you need to get some sleep."
Although not ready to leave her, I lean over to lift a smoldering kiss to her lips.
"I'll see you tomorrow." Yawning widely again, I get up to go home.
Standing up, she walks along with me to the door. After pulling it open, she throws her arms around my neck and this time it's her who kisses me so hard, it's scorching in its intensity.
Raising her fingers to her lips after we pull apart. She almost looks awed by the sparks that fly when our lips unite.
Unable to suppress a smile, I wrap her in my arms, squeezing her against my chest. I drop a kiss to the crown of her head and whisper goodnight when I pull back.
"Goodnight Damon," she whispers. I say goodnight and tell her to make sure she locks the door before stepping outside. Our eyes stay joined until the door closes softly behind me. With a tired smile on my face, I turn around and walk down the sidewalk towards my home.
Since we're about to release a new game, I have to spend the next few days at the office getting things in order. Although I'm a bit disgruntled with Stefan, he does do an excellent job marketing the games and finding buyers to mass produce it. I have about three weeks of time left to serve at Happy Dale but I'm going to have to look into volunteering if I want to be able to spend more time with Anna. My dad flew back home to start getting things in order to sell his house. Stefan and I are flying home at the end of the week to help him out.
Caroline is staying home because her best friend Bonnie is arriving to spend some time with her. She promised me that she would keep an eye on Elena and help her out if need be. Care is a good person, she said she was going to ask Elena if she wanted to go shopping with them. I hope she will as her furnishings are pretty sparse yet. She wants to buy a bed for herself and one for the second bedroom. I was a little taken aback when she told me that although she wants nothing to do with her parents, at least not at this point in her life, she does have a brother that she'd like to reconnect with.
I had to make arrangements with the court to give me a little more time to complete my community service so I can go home to help my dad out. Unfortunately with everything going on between here and the center and making arrangements to fly to Florida, I haven't been able to spend much time with Elena. Since Caroline will be busy with her girlfriend, I'm going to ask Elena is she can cat sit DC while dad and I are gone. I have yet to introduce her to dad and that's something I really want to do. My dad has been such a lifesaver for me since that fateful day. Maybe when we get back, I can invite her over to share a meal with dad and me, I muse while working on this week's payroll.
When I finish up my computer work, I walk into Elena's work area. Mel has only a week left but she has assured me the Elena is more than capable of doing her job. Stefan is still distant with her. Elena hasn't said anything to me but I can see how it bothers her. The way she quietly pushes a piece of hair behind one of her ears or the way she looks down, not making eye contact with him when he asks a question. And I know I'll have to have a few words with him but I just don't have the energy to get into another fight with him tonight.
"Hello, Elena. Do you know where Mel is?"
"She left for the day. I hope that's okay. She said she'd go over my work tomorrow to make sure I didn't screw anything up."
"I'm sure you didn't screw up anything. As you know, I'm flying back home with my dad. I kind of have a favor to ask you?"
"What kind of a favor?"
"I was hoping maybe you could babysit my cat while I'm gone."
"You have a cat?"
"I do. He's a mutt and his name is DC and I love him to pieces."
"DC?"
"It's stands for damn cat."
"I had no idea that you were a cat person," she laughs.
"That I am. I got him about a year ago from the animal shelter. They were going to euthanize him. I just couldn't leave him there."
"Damon, who knew you had a soft spot for a kitty? I think it's great that you picked a shelter animal."
"Thanks. Um, do you want to do something tonight?" I ask, hoping to spend a little time with her before I leave.
"I'd like that. Why don't you come over and we'll watch a movie or something?"
"That sounds like a fabulous idea. I'm going to go finish up. Why don't you stop by my office when you're done so we can leave together?"
"I'll do that." After staring at her for a few seconds, I bend over to drop a kiss to her lips. When she smiles that ear to ear smile at me, I feel my heart begin to thrum against my ribcage. I can't even explain the connection I feel to her and how good it feels to merely touch her. With a smile of my own, I walk out of her space and back to my office, my smile widening with each step I take.
Feeling excited about spending the evening with Elena, I bury myself in my work so I can finish up in time to stop at the flower store to pick a bouquet up for Elena. I wish I knew what kind of flowers she likes although I'm sure she'll be pleased with whatever I choose.
"Hello?" I answer when my phone rings.
"Hey Ric, what's shaking?"
"I just talked to Mikael. He's going to Oklahoma City this weekend to speak with Miss Starr. Apparently she was on her honeymoon and that's why he wasn't able to reach her till just a couple of days ago."
"I hope she can shed some light on a few things. I don't know, Ric," I utter, shaking my head.
"I have absolutely no proof that something untoward is going on there, it's just a nagging gut feeling.'
"I understand. I remember all to well that time you knew something was wrong at my parent's place. We got there and they were both passed out from carbon monoxide poisoning. If we hadn't gotten there when we did, they'd be dead now."
"I remember. How are they by the way? I haven't seen them in quite some time."
"They're doing great Damon. You should know that my mom always asks about you when I talk to her. You'll have to come along with Jenna and me one of these days when we drive over to see them."
"I'll do that. Give them my best. Did I tell you that Stefan and I are flying to Florida on Friday? Dad is moving in with me permanently. He needs help packing and arranging for a moving van. We'll probably have to have an auction or something to sell his furniture and stuff that he won't need anymore."
"That is good news. How do you feel about that?"
"Believe it or not, I like having him here. I mean, I know he's still a fairly young guy and now with Caroline expecting..., um it'll be good for him too."
"Caroline's pregnant?"
"Yeah, they sprung that news on us a couple of weeks ago."
"Okay then. I'll let you know if Mikael finds out anything. Maybe we can all get together again when you get back to discuss things and form some sort of a plan if Mikael learns anything productive?"
"That's a good idea. I'll keep in touch. Listen Ric, I have some work to finish up before my date tonight so I'm going to say goodbye.."
Wait? You have a date tonight?"
"I do."
"I'm really happy about that Damon. I'll let you go. Bye now."
After finishing with Ric, I clear off my desk so I can get out of here. Before I leave, I pop into Stefan's office and tell him that I'm leaving for the day and ask him to lock up for me. Fortunately he doesn't give me any grief about Elena today. If he continues to make the work environment so frosty for Elena, he and I will have words. I also make a quick stop in Elena's office to tell her that I need to leave earlier than I expected and that I will see her tonight. Although I sensed a little disappointment that we wouldn't be leaving together, I plan to make it up to her tonight.
Deciding not to wait for the bus, I hop into a taxi, directing him to 'Enzo's Floral and Gifts' so I can grab some flowers.
"Can I help you?" the clerk asks when I step inside.
"Please. I'm looking for some flowers for a lovely young lady. I have no idea what she likes as our relationship is pretty new."
"Well, ladies always seem to like roses?"
"I like roses too but it seems like such a common thing. I'd like something unique." Motioning with his finger for me to follow, he points to an arrangement that in the cooler.
"This one consists of sunflowers, red roses, orange Alstroemeria, orange poms and purple Statice. What do you think?"
"That's the one."
He takes it out of the cooler and walks over to the cashier's counter. After paying for it, I jump back in the taxi to go home. Handing the driver some cash, I get out of the car and go into the house to shower and get cleaned up.
"What's this?" dad asks, pointing at the flowers when I step into the house.
"They're for Elena. She invited me over for supper and movie."
"Well, well. That is good news, Damon. Why don't you give me those so you can shower and put on a change of clothes."
"Thanks dad." After handing him the vase, I practically gallop up the stairs opening my shirt buttons as I go. Once I get to my room, I quickly shed my clothes and get into the shower. when I'm done, I turn the water off, wrap a towel around my waist and step out. I spray on some deodorant and some of my favorite cologne. I have some stubble but I just don't feel like shaving so I blow it off, walking into my bedroom to get dressed. After taking a few moments to pet DC and cuddle with him a little bit, I run downstairs and into the living room.
"I just wanted to tell you that I'm leaving now dad. I don't know what time I'll be home tonight so if it's late, I'm saying goodnight now.
"Damon, don't worry about me. I just want you to go and enjoy yourself for an evening. It's been a long time."
"It has. And thanks, dad. Bye now." Sucking in a deep breath, I pick up the flower vase and walk out of the door and slowly down the street to Elena's house.
"Come in Damon." She then steps back so I can walk inside of her house. I look into her eyes, nod just slightly then walk in, handing her the flowers once I'm beside her.
"Damon, they're beautiful. You shouldn't have."
"I wanted to."
"Thank you so much. Have a seat, I'm just going to check the stove." After setting the flowers down on the end table, she walk away and into the kitchen. The table is set for two with her mismatched plates and silverware yet it couldn't be more perfect. I think to myself.
"Damon?"
"Sorry, I was just daydreaming for a moment," I reply, smiling at her.
"Have a seat," I tell her, sliding over to make room for her. Once she's beside, I take her hand in one of mine while stroking the top with my other hand. I feel her visibly relax at my ministrations. Letting her hand fall, I lean over to lift a wispy kiss from her lush, full red lips.
"That's nice," she whispers, reaching up to cradle my face with her palms, pulling my lips back to hers. Just as our kiss heats up, the oven timer goes off, breaking the spell.
"Time to eat." I shiver at the way she continues to stare at my own lips. I give her one more quick kiss before standing up, pulling her along with me. She made a pot roast with all the trimmings. It's absolutely delicious. I'm glad she knows how to cook. For desert, she made rhubarb pie which has always been a favorite of mine. My mother used to make it during the summer for us.
"What are you thinking about?"
"My mom used to make us rhubarb pie when we were growing up. It's always been a favorite. How did you know?"
"I asked Stefan what you liked?"
"Really? Was he decent to you?"
"He's very stiff, almost frosty around me. Do you know why?"
Not wanting to hurt her feelings, I just tell her that he's always that way with new people till he gets to know them better. I know I should be truthful with her but I don't want to spoil this evening. After we finish, she shows me where the dishes and silverware go so I can put them away as she washes them. Once I dry the last piece of silverware and put it away, she takes my hand and leads me back to the living room.
"What movie do you want to watch?"
She then hands me a stack of DVD's.
"My gosh, Elena. These are all of the old Disney classics that I loved watching as a little boy," I exclaim excitedly, my eyes wide and my mouth slightly agape.
"A little birdie told me that you're a little kid at heart sometimes."
"Let watch 'That Darn Cat'. DC is named after the cat in this movie. And you have the original version. It's the best. Oh and you have 'The Shaggy Dog' too, the Fred McMurray version. Oh Elena, I'm just giddy here," I laugh, pressing a quick kiss to her lips. Once I put the movie in and press play, we sit back on the couch and watch it. I wrap my arm around her so she's snuggled in against my chest. We're both laughing so hard that it feels like the couch is shaking with us. Sometime during the movie, Elena got up and made us some popcorn which we devoured greedily.
When the credits finally appear on the screen, I have my feet elevated on her coffee table with a beautiful Elena still in my arms. Sitting up, I grab the remote and click the TV off before settling back against the couch.
When our eyes meet, it's like they're magnetic because I can't stop myself from pulling her onto my lap and kissing her senseless. Our lips mold and slide against each other, our tongues battling it out when she opens her perfect shaped lips for me. Feeling myself beginning to harden, I readjust my pants for comfort. Her eyes are exploding in lust when I break the kiss so I gently lay her down on the couch with me on top of her. I grind my groin into her when she moans aloud as I continue to pepper her face and neck with kisses and nuzzles.
Sucking in my lower lip, I slowly slip my hand under her shirt so I can feel the softness of her skin. Ever so lightly, I move my fingers upwards till I reach her breast. Whether consciously or not, when she arches her chest into my hand, I start to massage her breast that fits perfectly in my hand. Dropping my lips to hers again, I use my thumb to work her nipple till it's erect, stroking it she's gasping and moaning aloud. With her permission, I raise her body and pull her shirt off and then mine. My mouth drops when I stare at her bosom for the first time.
"You're so beautiful, Elena," I whisper, lowering my lips to encircle one nipple while my hands tease the other.
"Damon," she whispers, using her hands to push my head further into her chest. She hisses when I worry her nipple gently with my teeth. I start to suckle and stroke it in earnest when her gasps and quivers urge me on. When I begin to pull my mouth away, I keep ahold of her nipple till it breaks free with a plopping sound. I then turn my attention to her other breast. I suckle and bite and tease it with my tongue till I feel her body undulating underneath me. Reaching down, I need to reposition myself again as my cock is straining under its denim prison.
Since my hand is already down south, I finger my way up to the waistband of her yoga pants and slide my hand inside while at the same time, I lift a scorching kiss from her lips. When I reach the apex of her thighs, I find her lady parts moist with desire. I give her clit a light pass with my index finger before thrumming it gently. When I see how her eyes are smoldering with fire, I kiss her. With my lips still engaged against her mouth, I inch my hand in further, stroking her sex. Taking a chance I plunge a finger inside. Finding her so wet and so hot, my cock strains against the zipper of my jeans. Trying to shake off my lust so I can pleasure her, I continue to tease and caress her insides, running a pass along her front wall.
"Damon, more," she whimpers, her hips rising and falling to meet my fingers as they work her to completion. Several seconds later, I feel her body begin to quiver and quake against my fingers as her insides clamp down on me. As I stroke her through it, the look of rapture on her face is unforgettable. When her body finally relaxes, I pull my hand out and kiss her like tonight is our last night on earth. When I pull away, we stare into each others eyes for a long time. I shimmy down to remove her pants but stop when she grabs onto my wrist, halting my movements.
"I want more Damon. But I'm not ready to go there yet. I've been stuck in Happy Dale since I was fifteen. I haven't been with a man... I want this with you, I do but not yet. Please understand."
Shaking my head, I lower my lips to hers once more to steal another torrid kiss from her lips. When I sit up, I pull her along with me.
"Of course, I understand, Elena. We'll go as slow as you want. You just make me feel so many things that I thought I'd never feel again."
Cradling my face again with her soft hands, she drops a kiss to my lips then looks me squarely in the eyes.
"I feel so much with you too, Damon. And I really want this," she explains, looking down at my bulge, "just not yet. Thank you for being so good to me." I can see the sincerity in her eyes, so different from what I've known before.
"I'm more than happy to wait till you feel you're ready. I want our first time to be special too."
"I'm going to go home now. I told you that I'm leaving to go to my childhood home with my dad so I won't be around for the next week to ten days. Dad is moving in with me so I'm flying to Florida to help him get his things in order. Stefan is going to follow me down. We were going to fly together but he wants to go to Caroline's OB appointment with her. She's pregnant."
"That's wonderful."
I don't miss the winsome look in her eyes. Reaching up, I stroke her cheek with my fingers, closing my eyes at how good it feels just to be with her.
"You have my number so you can call me or we can skype on the computer."
"You're a wonderful man, Damon Salvatore. Thank you so much for everything you've done for me and for your patience and understanding."
"I care about you, Elena. I want this too." I take her hand in mine as she walks me to the front door. After stealing one more magical kiss and a hug, I step outside, only walking away when she pushes the door closed.
Thank you Eva. Love you lots.
And thank you, all of you who took the time to review. Next up, Damon and his dad in Florida among other things.
Chapter title: 'Hello' by Lionel Richie
I did update 'Angels Fall' yesterday and 'Rainy Days and Mondays' last Thursday. Would love to hear your comments on those as well.
Please remember to click that 'Review' button.
Again, I wish you all a safe and prosperous and happy 2016. We'll see you next time.