Chapter 22

Their kisses started out as tender explorations. Each time they stopped for a moment to draw air into their lungs, the kisses grew in intensity. Before long each was a duel of tongues for possession of the others mouth. Neither of them came away the loser in these duels.

Both of them reached to remove the other's shirts at the same time and they ended up sharing a laugh as their hands collided. Leaning away from him just a bit, Mac took hold of the hem of her own shirt and pulled it over her head. She waited expectantly for him to do the some, but was puzzled when he didn't move. She looked up into his face and found he was staring at her with rapt intensity.

"You're so beautiful," he told her when their gazes met.

"Thank you AJ, but turn about's fair play. I want you to take your shirt off next."

He made quick work of removing his shirt. AJ had no illusions about the way he looked, he was nothing special, but did keep himself in good shape even though these days he spent most of his time behind a desk. Pulling her into his arms once again, her breasts came into contact with the salt and pepper mat of hair on his chest. Both of them groaned in delight at the sensation.

The rest of their clothes were quickly disposed of and they were soon lying on the blanket pressed against each other. AJ trailed kisses from her tempting mouth down her neck to her breasts, giving them several minutes of loving attention.

After making love they lay cuddled in each other's arms recovering for several minutes before AJ suggested a leisurely swim. Mac agreed and gracefully rose to her feet. She extended her hand to him unashamed of her nudity. As AJ rose he marveled at her loveliness and wondered if she had any idea that he was falling in love with her.

Mac saw the tender look on his face and wondered what he was thinking. She also wondered if it was too soon to believe she was in love with him? They had known each other such a short time, but they were so comfortable with each other. Not like an old married couple that could almost finish each other's sentences, but instead they were at ease with one another, there was none of those awkward moments between them.

Both of them seemed to shake off their inner thoughts at the same time and reaching out for the other's hand they walked into the cool water of the pond. They swam and played for a time allowing the water to caress their naked bodies just as a lover would. At one point in the games AJ dove under the water and pulled her feet out from under her. Mac went under with a sputter and surfaced determined to get even. She launched herself at him to dunk him, but he was ready for her and held her tight in his strong arms.

Their eyes met and playtime was over just that quickly. Their lips met in a heated kiss that made it clear both of them were ready for more serious pursuits. The water ebbed and flowed around them, alternately pushing them together and pulling them slightly apart.

To be continued…..