Author's Notes: I don't own anything in the Perry Mason universe, obviously, thanks Earl Stanley Gardner for creating it though. Trust me, if I owned them there would be no question whether Perry and Della are a couple. That being said, this story is spicy.
I would love a review, I am new to the Perry Mason Fanfiction writing universe. All the mistakes are mine. I do not have a beta.
Story Notes
This story is set early in Perry and Della's relationship. They have only worked together a year but been together a month and have experienced their first disagreement as Della puts it. If you ever watched the Perry Mason Movie titled, TCOT All-Star Assassin, I hope you recognize the discussion at the end. I figured the two of them had to learn their pearls of wisdom somehow. Also, I wrote the library scene first (at the end of story) and the rest of it was written just to make that scene happen, haha.
Never End A Day Where One Of Us Is Wrong
Sliding into the booth, across from her friend, Janet Brent, "Sorry, I'm a little late." Della says. "I didn't keep you too long, did I?"
Putting her compact back in her purse, "No, you're only 5 minutes late. That might be a record for you." Giving a slight chuckle. "What with your normally crazy schedule since working for Mason. Were you working or working" Using her fingers to gesture air quotes around the second working. "for him this morning?"
Shooting her friend a warning look "First off Janet, you know Perry and I try to keep that kind of working to a minimum while in the office. Second, I won't be doing that kind of work with Perry anymore."
"What!? Della, what's going on?" At that moment the waiter appears to take their orders.
Placing their orders and then pausing until the waiter is out of earshot. Janet turns her attention back to Della. "Did you two have a fight? What is going on?"
Placing her napkin on her lap and taking a minute to smooth it out, she looks up. "Well, it's only been a month but his need to protect me has increased to the point I can't even help with cases properly."
"I thought everything was going so well with you two. I mean I remember how happy you were when you first got together."
"It was and it did and still does. The problem is before we had any sort of romantic relationship, he would be protective. Then when we started to have a few shared kisses, I would notice he only took Paul on some investigations that he used to take both of us on." Leaning forward and lowering her voice even more "When we started sleeping together last month. Well, I have not left the office since and there have been plenty of opportunities. I'm surprised he still lets me go to the courthouse to file things."
"Della, he just wants to take care of you." Pausing as the waiter delivered their lunches. "That's what he's supposed to do."
"That may be true but if I wanted someone that wouldn't let me do anything fun and exciting, tucked away in a house with nothing to do, I would have just married Michael."
"Your ex-fiancé from back home?" Laughing at the thought. "Della, have you tried talking to Perry about this?"
"Yes, I have and that's exactly what caused the fight. Now, we're not together, in any sense of the word and barely speaking to each other. It's been a week, but we've been so busy with the latest case that we wouldn't have had time for anything anyway but still the tension exists." Pushing her plate to the side. "I told him, I couldn't be with him in the romantic sense if it was going to affect our professional relationship so much."
"You really would end things with him? He's so successful, wealthy and he is handsome."
"He is all of that and so much more, but I really need him to realize I am not a fragile doll. I know he loves me but part of why he loves me is because of who I am and right now, he is not allowing me to be me."
"Then go be you." Giving a warm smile. "Guess our time is up."
Glancing at her watch. "I guess so, I want to get back before he returns."
Della gets back to the office about 30 minutes before Perry returns. He walks into her office just as she pulls out the last letter she needs to type.
"Della." He greets her in a solemn manner. A way he has adapted in the last week since the previous Monday night when the discussion occurred. "Can you follow me, please?"
Getting up from her desk she follows him into his office. She watches as he puts his briefcase down next to the conference room table, while taking off his jacket, placing it on the back of one of the chairs. Seeing him walk behind his desk, she follows him and takes her usual seat to his left and pulls out her steno pad and pen.
"I need you to take a letter to Attorney Dietrich for the Jackson matter."
"Ok." She readies herself as he starts.
"As you know, I represent Mr. Jackson, the owner of the subject property. The Board granted our zoning relief and the Applicant desires to proceed as soon as possible. Our client acknowledges and agrees that (1)…" Hearing the pause, she looks up from her notebook to see him staring at her hands.
"(1)?" she questions.
Getting up from his chair, he begins pacing in front of his desk "(1)" he starts again but continues his pacing.
Stopping at the corner of his desk, in front of where she sits. "I can't do this right now."
"What? The letter?" Looking up to meet his gaze.
"This." Motioning his arms up to refer to the whole office and then dropping them back to his sides. "I can't keep doing this, coming here every day with this tension between us." Crouching down, leaning on his one knee in front of her "Why can't we go back to the way things were?"
Putting her pen down on the desk. "Were, when?" She asks, truly wondering what he is referring to. "The way things were when we were boss and secretary, or the way we were when we had stolen kisses and caresses and you started preventing me from seeing the seedier side of our cases or when we started sleeping together and you completely cut me out?"
"I'm sorry but can we sit?" Tilting his head in the direction of the sofa "Not sure how much longer my knee can hold this."
Chuckling slightly, she knows how his knee acts up on him, even at his young age. Getting up from her seat, she walks to join him, sitting next to but not touching him on the sofa.
Looking over at him "So, I ask again which were?"
Turning to face her. "The were, where we ran this office together, where we were friends and lovers. All of it."
Reaching up to cup her face in his hand and rub his thumb across her cheek. It's been a week since they have had any physical contact and she knows she should push him away but just this simple act makes her completely melt. She sees him leaning closer and feels herself being pulled towards him. Seeing his lips part, she knows he's going to kiss her. A stronger woman would stop him, but Della Street is not strong when it comes to Perry Mason. Her body craves him, and her mind, heart and soul miss this man who owns her completely, a man she has freely and enthusiastically given herself to. Her one consolation is that he has given himself completely to her as well, they both know this relationship is different. Their lips touch and each of them feels the jolt.
Thinking to herself, why does he have to be so good at this?
He breaches her defenses, knowing there were none there to begin with. Their tongues battle for control and she feels herself being pushed back onto the sofa. She relishes in the feel of his weight on her, she loves when she feels engulfed by him, when there is no one else in this world but Perry and her. Tilting her neck back to lean her head on the arm of the sofa, she grants him access to one of her favorite spots. Knowing what she wants he trails his tongue down, past her chin, stopping to drop a few kisses on her jaw and then sliding down until he reaches the side of her neck, where just a lick and a kiss can cause her to squirm beneath him. All the while her hands are caressing his back, one working its way up to tug at his hair. She feels his hand grasp the side of her body as he moves it up higher. Feeling it come to rest on her one breast, she pushes back slightly when she feels him caress her through her shirt. He senses the change in her and pulls back immediately, his lips swollen from their make out session.
"Della?" He asks her with concern in his voice.
Rising up from the sofa, she looks down and starts to smooth out the creases they created in her skirt. Looking over at him "I'm sorry, Perry, but I can't do this."
Standing up next to her "what's wrong? I thought maybe this fight was over."
"Perry it's not even a fight, per se."
"Sure seems like a fight to me."
"Really, Perry, it's not. It was when we had it a week ago, but I need you to understand, I am not as easily breakable as you think I am." Sitting back down in her chair next to his desk. She sees him start to open his mouth, but she holds up her hand, silencing him. "When we fought a week ago, I don't think you were listening. I love what we do, I want to be in on everything, the good, the bad and the ugly."
Not wanting to draw attention from anyone else in the office, his voice is quiet but strained, stressing the importance of his words. "Della, I can't have anything happen to you, do you understand that?" Getting up he starts pacing in front of his desk. "If anything would ever happen to you, it would break me." Stopping to stand right in front of her "You, Della Street, are the only thing in this entire world that can break me." His voice rose slightly, and she could hear the tension in it.
Grabbing his hands, she takes a minute to collect her thoughts "I know you don't want anything to happen to me, I don't want anything to happen to you, but this will never work between us if we can't be who we were and who we want to be. This is why I had to choose. I could either be with you in the romantic sense or be with you in the business one and I know only a romantic one would not work right now. I can see it now; you'll crawl into bed at 2am after microwaving the leftover dinner. I would get a kiss goodbye in the morning and I guess we might have a little more time on the weekends. A working relationship allows us to be together and if we happen to figure out how to have a romantic one alongside it then that would be amazing but having only a romantic relationship with you right now would mean losing you."
"I can do it Della. I will admit, I did get a little crazy, but it was all so new. Everything, I haven't felt anything like this before with anyone and the fact that I sometimes put you in dangerous situations I figured I'm the only one that can keep you safe" Reaching out to put his hands around her waist, he takes it as a good sign when she doesn't pull away. "I know you are more than capable. You, Ms. Street have all of my confidence, so forgive me for losing my head." Pulling her a little closer. "All I am asking for is another chance." Giving her a smile that brings out his dimples, she knows he is not playing fair now. "Call me greedy but I want it all. I want you alongside me in every sense of the word."
Sliding her arms up around his neck "Ok, Mr. Mason. I know you are a man of your word. I also know this is all new to both of us, since neither of us have had a boss/employee relationship cross any lines before." Giving him a look that implies she is questioning him slightly, asking him, right? "So, it'll be a learning experience for both of us. I do know; however, I would like to slow it down." Seeing the pout on his lips form. "Only because I want to know that you will let things get back to normal." Running her fingers across his shoulders "So should we make it official and draw up a contract?"
He pulls her towards him until she is flush against him, putting his arms around her completely.
"I think we should just seal it with a kiss." Leaning down he brushes against her lips, softly, he peppers her mouth with soft kisses and just as he swipes her bottom lip with his tongue, seeing how much she will let him get away with, she pulls back.
Reaching up and wiping the trace remnants of her lipstick with her thumb. "Ok, we have a letter to get out." Walking back to the desk, she takes her seat and prepares for him to finish the dictation.
Not moving from his spot, realizing she slipped away from him, he frowns and then turns to walk to his chair behind the desk. Sitting down he looks over to her, "Has anyone told you that you're a slave driver of a boss?" She gives him a chuckle, but he gets right back to work.
It was now Thursday afternoon, four days since their office agreement was established on Monday. Perry did live up to his word. He allowed her to come along to a breaking and entering, well just entering as Perry claimed since they didn't break anything to get in. He even let her go with just Paul to question a waitress at a local dance club, since he claimed he needed her to make sure Paul didn't get distracted. She wasn't surprised, she meant it when she said he was a man of his word. Everything Perry did he took to the extreme, whether it was defending clients with a fiery passion or showing her that same passion every day but especially in the bedroom. She waited long enough and decided Saturday night after the B.A.L.E. Gala she would show him just how much she missed being with him in every sense of the word. She did love the Gala; the one joint fundraiser held the first Saturday in October every year between the Bar Association and Law Enforcement. It's always a lavish affair with Longwood Mansion allowing the use of its mansion and grounds at no cost for the soiree. Sometimes she would find herself wandering out of the main ballroom, just to explore any of the unlocked rooms of what was once a private home.
Standing up from her desk she grabs her coat and walks into Perry's office.
"You ready to head out to police headquarters?"
Looking up from the book he was reading. "Yep, I guess we better get going." Standing from his chair. "We wouldn't want to keep Lt. Tragg waiting."
"We can't have that." She smiles. He comes around to the front of his desk to meet her.
"Have I told you how beautiful you look today?"
Blushing she looks up "No, but thank you."
"May I kiss you?" He asks while cupping her cheek with his right hand.
"Quick." She smiles "We can't keep Lt. Tragg waiting."
He leans forward and pulls her into him. Wrapping her hands around her, running them up and down her spine. Their lips meet and he immediately pierces her lips with his tongue, demanding entry. Invading her mouth, he takes control of the kiss, hearing her moan he turns her to lean against the front of his desk. He feels her pushing gently on his shoulders, so he pulls back.
"Della?"
"Perry, we need to meet with Paul and Tragg."
"Tragg can wait." He says with a smile.
"Come on it won't take that long. While Paul is telling an officer what he knows you and Tragg can talk, and I can take notes." Walking towards the office's backdoor, he follows her.
Arriving at police headquarters they run into Paul in the hallway, standing with him is Lt. Steve Drumm. He's one of LA's newest homicide detectives, just transferred a few months ago from Robbery. Heading to Lt. Tragg's office, Perry is eager to get this over with as fast as possible. Two hours later, one hour longer than he wanted to be there, the five of them head out into the hallway just outside of Tragg's office. Walking down the hall, just about to turn the corner, Tragg remembers the one question he forgot to ask Perry and Paul. Stopping them closer to his office. He leaves Della near the end of the hall to be entertained by the young and handsome detective.
Even though Tragg, Perry and Paul are far enough away that they can't possibly hear the conversation they are having, Della can feel Perry's eyes on her and Lt. Drumm.
"Della," Steve stops and turns to her. "I was wondering if you were going to the Annual B.A.L.E Gala?"
"Actually, the firm buys a table, every year. So, yes, I'll be there."
"Well, since you're already going and wouldn't mind having me as your date, I would be honored."
Not wanting to look over at Perry for fear of giving Steve the wrong thoughts, Della pauses for a second. "Well actually since our firm buys a table, I usually sit with everyone there." Flattered but not wanting to give him the wrong impression or hurt his feelings at the same time. "I don't usually take an escort." Knowing in reality that Perry is always her date to that and pretty much everything else.
"Oh, ok, no worries then." Sounding slightly sad by her rejection but recovering with a smile to let her know, it's ok.
"I would love to share a dance or two with you, however." Placing her hand gently on his sleeve and quickly removing it.
Standing with Tragg to his left slightly in front of him and Paul on his right, Perry finds himself sandwiched between the two as they discuss the latest Dodgers game that happened the previous evening. His eyes focusing on Della and Steve, watching their interaction and paying particular notice to the smiles Della seems to be offering. Is she trying to make me jealous? He wonders.
"Perry" Paul nudges him back to his current conversation. "Perry."
"Yes, Paul?" Asking slightly irritated realizing Lt. Tragg left their trio at some point.
Looking over at Della "You wondering what they're talking about?"
"No." Looking over at Paul "You ready to get out of here?" He questions as he walks over to collect Della.
Standing next to her, he reaches for her arm but decides at the last minute not to grab it. "We're going." Perry states rather abruptly and continues to walk towards the front door.
Saying her goodbye to Lt. Drumm and saying she is looking forward to Saturday evening, she follows the now apparently grumpy Perry and Paul out onto the street.
Giving herself one last look in the full-length mirror she runs her hands down the length of her dress. This dress is her favorite yet, the sapphire blue evening gown has a little fullness it to yet is taken in at the waist, making her appear smaller than normal. The strapless dress allows for cleavage but the matching tulle going across her chest, wrapping around her arms, gives her the off the shoulder look. She feels the curls of her updo give a sophisticated look and she tied the whole thing together with simple sapphire earrings and a white gold chain that at the end held a small tear drop sapphire that Perry gave her for Christmas that past year. Her higher than normal heels boosts her confidence even more.
Hearing the knock on the door, she knows it's Perry, promptly arriving at 5:00. Grabbing her clutch off the foot of the bed, she goes out to answer the door. Opening the door, she pauses to run her eyes up and down his length. Allowing herself the moment to appreciate him in a full tux. She can feel his gaze giving her the same appreciation she just gave him.
Stepping back slightly. "Would you like to come in for a minute. I just need to put on my wrap."
"Um, sure." Following her into her apartment, he closes the door behind him. "Della." reaching out to take her hand. "You look stunning." Pulling her up against him. "Ravishing, actually." He trails the tips of her fingers up and down the length of her neck, slightly tickling but completely intoxicating. He leans in closer, inhaling the scent of his favorite perfume. "You know we can always be a little late." Lifting his head to try to connect with her lips.
She pulls back putting her hands on his chest. "Perry, everyone is waiting for us. Besides" running her fingers up his lapels "I don't want to redo my hair and makeup." Giving him a quick kiss on the lips and then wiping off her lipstick, she turns to grab her wrap. Grabbing it from her, he places it around her shoulders. Sensing his disappointment, it seems to venture close to annoyance, she feels bad, but after the last two weeks she is looking forward to dinner, dancing and then coming back to her place for dessert.
Extending his arm, she wraps hers around it immediately. Maybe she isn't mad with me anymore, he thinks. During the drive to the mansion, Perry finds himself lost in thought. He believed that as of Monday and their talk and his subsequent follow-through with allowing her back in the middle of the action, that everything would go back to normal with them. Of course, it didn't help that they were so busy this week with cases that they didn't leave the office until after midnight each night and then she claimed to be too tired to do anything else. This must be some sort of punishment he figures, thinking that since this was their first disagreement, neither one of them knew how the other would handle it.
The gala is exquisite as always. Walking into the ballroom with its large hanging chandeliers all lit but dimmed low gave the room a romantic feel. The tall, crystal centerpieces with flowers cascading down from the top of the arraignment only added to the romantic ambience. Walking over to their table, they are stopped by Hamilton, Tragg and a few others. At the table Gertie was already sitting with her new boyfriend, Paul and his date of the night was also already there as well Jackson and his date.
After dinner was served, as the band began to play Perry was standing at the bar talking to Lt. Tragg waiting for Della's and his drink. From across the room, he turns to look at his table, just in time to see Lt. Drumm hold out his hand and Della rise to join him on the dance floor.
"Della sure looks stunning tonight." Hearing Lt. Tragg speak he refocuses his attention.
"I'm sorry." Not quite hearing what he said.
"Della" pointing towards the now dancing couple "she really is beautiful. If I was younger and single, well…" Tragg trails off, thinking he is saying too much to the attorney who always seems a little more than possessive when it comes to his supposedly just secretary.
"Yes," grabbing his drinks "If you'll excuse me."
Walking back to the table he places the drinks on the table and takes a seat. Looking around he sees Paul and Gretie both dancing with their respective dates. He keeps his eyes on the couple spinning around the dance floor. Slowly drinking his scotch, he glares when he sees Della laugh at something Drumm says. Seeing her tilt her head back slightly with a laugh makes him think of kissing that very spot earlier in the week. Hearing the music change he's about to get up and ask for the next dance when Judge Edwards comes over.
"Perry" taking a seat in the chair next to his "How have you been?"
Knowing it would be not only rude but stupid to ignore a judge when he comes to chat, Perry sits back in his chair. "I've been good your Honor, hope the same can be said for you." Looking over the other man's shoulder, Perry notices that Della and Lt. Drumm did not separate and instead are dancing the next dance together. Throughout the conversation Perry keeps an eye on Della's dance partners. Drumm released his hold after the last of two dances, only for her to be approached by Hamilton. Doing his best to stay involved with the Judge's conversation but annoyed that he seems so long winded this evening. As a waiter passes by he stops him to grab a glass of champagne off of the tray. Finally, the Judge makes his departure and Perry rises, hoping to secure the next dance for himself. Just then he hears the announcement "Ladies and Gentlemen, if you would please take your seats." Seeing everyone return to their seats, Perry figures he lost his chance yet again. At least she'll sit next to him.
Standing up to pull her chair out for her. "I see you are not lacking for dance parties."
Sitting, she gives him a smile. "No, I'm honestly glad for the break."
"Yes." Taking his seat next to her. "I'm sure Lt. Drumm is very disappointed however that he had to give you up."
Turning her head to face him "Really, Perry. Are you jealous?" She sees a waiter walk by and grabs each of them a glass of champagne. Realizing he just had scotch followed by champagne, he knows he should refuse but his annoyance over her, what seems to be avoidance has him not caring.
"Of course not." Pulling his head back slightly in disbelief, "Jealous of him? It just seems like the Lt. wants to be sure to tire you out enough that you don't dance with anyone else."
"Hamilton was my last partner, you know."
Before he could issue a retort they hear the speaker start talking about the Silent Auction tables, what's being offered and how the bidding is now open.
Realizing the band is taking a break due to the start of the auction Perry stands, offering his hand to Della, asking if she would like to peruse the offerings.
Grabbing her clutch, Della stands. "Sorry, I have a make a stop at the ladies' room, I'll meet you over at the tables."
Even if her reason is understandable, Perry is starting to feel rejected and begins to wonder if she is still punishing him for the previous week.
Coming out of the stall, Della checks herself in the mirror. Realizing she has yet to dance with Perry she starts to feel guilty. Knowing she wants nothing more than to rekindle their intimate relationship tonight, she finds herself wondering if she is subconsciously using the dancing as once last attempt of showing him what he loses if he messes up. Hearing the music start again and feeling the urge to be back in his arms she heads out to claim her dance.
Looking around the tables, she is unable to find him. Seeing Paul, she asks if he knows where Perry got to.
Pointing in the direction of the crowded dance floor "Mrs. Emery convinced him to give her a dance." Glancing over she sees the mayor's wife in Perry's arms. While it's good to be friendly with the mayor and his wife, she secretly knows the woman's incessant talking always drives Perry insane.
"Care to take a twirl, beautiful." Extending his hand to her, Della places hers in his.
"Happy to."
They join the dance floor and it's not long before Perry notices them. Giving him a smile, she can't help but laugh at the eye roll he gives her when his partner is not looking.
Becoming lost in the crowd, Della loses sight of him before the next song starts playing. Seeing Lt. Drumm approach she is thinking of how to politely decline when she sees Perry not being released by Mrs. Emery, so she may as well accept Steve's offer. She realizes while Perry and her want to keep their still new relationship a secret for a few reasons she may have to gently let Lt. Drumm know she is not interested.
The music just begins to change, and she tries to locate Perry again. Spotting Mrs. Emery, she sees that her dance partner has changed to that of her husband. Wondering where Perry has gone, she begins looking around the room. She doesn't need to look long, since she sees the imposing attorney coming right for them, his walk seems determined and gives off the appearance of a charging bull. Standing next to them, he taps the Lt. on the shoulder. Looking directly at Della "I believe I was promised this dance." Watching the look between the two of them Della can tell Steve knows not to argue with his claim.
"Thanks for a pleasant evening, Della." Perry barely allows Steve to get the words out before he has Della in his arms, dancing her away from him.
Noticing that he seems to be holding her closer and tighter than normal, she looks up to meet his gaze. The intensity and desire she sees in his eyes both surprises and arouses her. "Perry, is everything ok?" She asks not sure if she should be concerned for him or herself.
Looking down at her "Della" she can smell the slight combination of scotch and champagne on his breath. "It is now, now that you're finally in my arms."
She hears the roughness in his voice and it affects her immediately, feeling the tingles run through her body all leading to the spots that are aching for his touch. The song ends and he grabs her hand, she follows him towards the side hall that leads to the various rooms that are used for different events throughout the year. He leads her through the crowds, not even hearing a polite excuse me coming from his lips as he pushes through the crush of people. They reach the entrance to the hall and he grabs her by the waist, pulling her along the empty hallway, trying the handle on each door until he finds one that is unlocked. Pulling her into the room with him he holds her behind him by the wrist, while he turns to lock the door. Turning to face her, the moonlight shining in through the open curtains gives enough light that he can see they entered the library. Pulling her flush against him, he lays claim to her lips. Holding her head to him, with a hand on either side of her face, he pierces her lips open. This is no gentle kiss; this is a man claiming what he thinks belongs to him and her knowing that she does. No matter how the last two weeks have played out, she knows it is only him to whom she belongs. They fight for control, tongues dueling, her teeth grab hold of his bottom lip, as she pulls and nibbles. He wraps his arms around her, cupping her bottom, he lifts her off the ground. Walking over to a plush, blue velvet chaise nestled in the corner between two mahogany walls filled with leather books. He lays her down on the lounge never breaking their connection. Her dress splays out and he's on her immediately, not giving her a break from his relentless attack. His full weight presses on her and his large frame engulfs her, he needs her to realize no one can take her from him. Pulling away from her lips, he drags his mouth lower to leave a trail down her throat as he pulls her skirt up, bunching it about her waist, while she runs her fingers through his hair, tugging it back so his neck is exposed to her.
"Perry" she moans as her lips land on his neck, right about his shirt's collar. She loosens his bowtie and starts to undo the first two buttons. "Just what is this?"
"This is me reminding you of who you're supposed to be with." Reaching down he undoes the buckle of his belt with one hand. Hearing the zipper of his pants open, she pushes his jacket off his shoulders. Leaning back, he helps push it off the rest of the way, tossing it to the side.
"I've never needed reminding." She says as he pulls his pants and boxers down just enough to expose his hard shaft to her. "I have known all along who I have wanted." Pushing her legs off to either side of the lounge, he moves his hand to push her already soaked panties to one side. Rubbing her slit gently up and down with his thumb, he has no doubt about how much she wants him too. Resting his left hand on the top of the chaise, he grabs his length and pushes it into her. He quiets her gasp with his mouth, pushing his tongue in to stroke hers. He repeatedly thrusts into her, pushing her firmly against the plush velvet, with each relentless stroke of his cock. Bringing his hand to her chest, he massages her taunt nipples through her dress. Not slowing, she moans every time he rubs against her in just the right way.
"You're mine and I'm yours. That's how it has always been and always will." Knowing she's close he grinds against her and captures her scream with his kiss. Pushing into her twice more he feels his own climax explode within her. Grabbing both her shoulders he holds her until both of their spasms stop. Resting his forehead against hers. "Della" his breathing heavy as his heartrate returns to normal.
She brings a finger to his lips. "No." Stopping his words, "take me home" Getting up from the chaise, Della looks down to see if her dress is still presentable. She uses her hands to smooth it down and she is grateful that the fabric is very forgiving, and no wrinkles seem to be obvious. Looking down at Perry who's rebuttoning his pants. She can't gauge his mood but she knows, it's time for the two of them to be alone.
The drive home was a quiet one, along with the ride in the elevator and when they entered her apartment, she made some coffee. Taking time to remove his shoes, coat and bowtie, he lays them all on the dining room chair and floor.
Bringing the coffee in, she places the tray on the coffee table. The two of them sit on the sofa, each taking a minute to stare at the coffee in their hand.
"Perry." She meets his gaze. "As fast, thrilling and amazing that little romp in the library was, I have to ask, what the heck was that?"
"I'm sorry, Della." Placing his cup on the table. "It's just since we had our fi..discussion last week, I haven't known how to handle it. In any of my previous relationships, I never worried if we fought, since I wasn't as invested." Moving closer to her on the sofa. "With you I am nothing but invested so I apologize for my irrational behavior. I've also apologized more in this last week to you than I have in any previous relationship."
"I'm sorry too." Placing her cup to join his on the table. She gets up and settles herself on his lap. "When you pushed me away, it started to make me feel as if you have no confidence in me. That I couldn't take care of myself."
Running his one hand up and down the length of her back while the one on her lap started to draw slow circles on her stocking clad thigh. "It was never about that; I know you can take care of yourself. In fact, sometimes, I wish you would let me take care of you a little more than you do."
"I know" she starts leaving a trail of kisses down his neck as her hands begin to unbutton his dress shirt. "While I never want you to think I am trying to invade your area of expertise, I need to be a part of things." Pausing her ministrations, much to his disappointment. "I think we should make a rule. Let's never end a day where one of us is wrong." Turning and adjusting her legs so she is now straddling his waist, her dress rising and flowing down around the two of them, she finishes undoing the last of his shirt buttons. "We always clear the air before bed. I don't want to go through another two days let alone two week like we just did."
His hands move to the back of her dress, where they slowly start to pull the zipper down. Standing up to rise off the sofa he carries her to her bedroom door. Opening the door with his foot, he walks into the room. "Why, that sounds like an excellent strategy Ms. Street." Kicking the bedroom door closed. "Now if we have finished our conversation, I would like to demonstrate how amenable I am to you coming with me." He says with a wink. Her laugh reverberating throughout her bedroom.
*****The End*****
**Notes**
Lt. Drumm doesn't appear until the last season of Perry Mason but the casual relationship he seems to have with everyone makes me feel there is a backstory. He seemed to have a relationship with them like Tragg. I am 100% a Perry and Della person but I have this idea of writing a story that takes place early, before the series where Drumm was friends with them and maybe even have Della and him date at some point, before Perry realizes what she means to him. Just wondering if anyone would be interested in something like that.
Reviews are wonderful and very much appreciated. I also love to hear people's thoughts on this story or even ideas you may have for something new.