~~~18~~~
Hustling down the sidewalk before turning the corner, Michonne arrived just in time to spy the yellow school bus chugging its way towards its destination. She casually waved and muttered greetings to the other parents and babysitters patiently waiting. Michonne realized her schedule was going to need some readjustments. With her recent social media posts exhibiting her attendance at the development event and subsequent brunch, her requests for appointments skyrocketed. Even more people found her when local leaders and business professionals tagged her and Williams Cuts in their posts.
Accommodating the extra clients provided her opportunities to convert them into long standing patrons. Not just for the barbershop but for her upcoming business as well. The much welcomed and unexpected currency would be invested in her salon. Michonne was grateful while getting a better understanding of how busy her life was about to become.
She'd have to be intentional with her time. Placing further importance on balance between work, family and respite. Therefore, she filled her Saturday books to the brim but Sunday, she only took early morning appointments. Monday, the shop was closed. Tuesday, she'd blocked off because she'd be receiving her next birth control dosage.
Thinking about the preventative measure reminded her of someone else she was missing. Since their hookup at the development event, they hadn't managed to sneak away. Rick's schedule had become just as hectic as hers. Michonne could admit to herself, she longed to see him. The brief romantic encounter at the zoo satisfied but also made the yearning stronger. An intoxicating habit.
But daydreaming about her lover while at the school bus stop was untoward. Instead, Michonne watched the bus pull up and its creaky door squeaked open before a couple of exuberant children ran off. Andre hopped to his mother but his usual lively behavior when a campout was imminent was somewhat dulled. Maybe he'd had a long week just like her.
"Ma!" he briefly wrapped his arms around her then let go. Probably worried about the other kids observing his affection towards his mother.
In a whispered voice, Michonne acknowledged him. "Peanut."
"Ma…"
Michonne held back her giggle from his cute little exasperated face before they began their short walk home. "I'm sorry. I can't help it when your face is still so cute. I've got to enjoy it while it lasts. One day, I'll look up and you'll have man face."
"Man face?" Andre chortled.
"Yeah, your jaw will square. Hair will start to grow everywhere! Out your ears even."
Andre laughed loudly since they'd gotten some distance from the bus stop. "Mama…"
"It's true. I watched it happen to grandpa. You'll watch it happen to your dad too. Then next thing- it's you." Michonne bulged her eyes out in faux horror, making her son laugh even more.
"Well, that's why I have you and your clippers."
"That you do."
The mother son combo skipped their way up the steps to open the front door of their home. "Last time camping outside until Spring arrives, huh?"
"Yeah. But Hershel came up with a new name for winter. Camp ins."
"Instead of sleepovers?"
Andre nodded gleefully while dropping his book bag off on the entry tree. Michonne snickered taking his jacket and hanging it on a hook. Her habit even with him growing taller by the second.
"Mama, while I go grab my stuff can you make me a sandwich, please? The cafeteria food sucked today." Andre made a pouty face pulling further at his mother's heart strings.
"Sure. You go get your things and I will have your sandwich ready when you come down."
"Great! I wonder what Mr. Glenn is getting for dinner tonight. Let me ask Hershel."
Michonne chuckled at the increasing voracious appetite that made her thankful for the extra money she made today. A soon-to-be-teenaged boy would be eating her out of house and home.
"Don't take too long."
"I won't." Andre shouted as he was already racing up the staircase to his bedroom.
Not long after washing her hands and scoping out the fridge, a zigzag trail of mustard, honey ham slices and Swiss cheese stared up at Michonne from the bottom half of a kaiser roll. The top half, coated in a creamy layer of mayo, waited its turn after the lettuce would be placed. Its maker was on the last steps, when the sounds of her son dragging hisbelongings announced his imminent arrival.
Andre hauled his duffle bag, no doubt filled with action figures, comic books and limited clothes to the front door before he came to sit at the kitchen island. His enthusiastic tone was replaced, appearing to be absorbed in thought that scrunched his face. His mother was left to wonder what brought about the change.
"Everything packed and ready to go?"
"Yep." Andre nodded. "Mama, can we talk about something?"
"Of course. What's on your mind? Is it the showcase?"
Andre shook his head then his gentle smile emerged. "I mean, I am nervous about the show. Maybe a little bit. But that's how everyone says they feel. Then you get on stage and the belly flips go away."
The pair grinned whimsically but Michonne wanted to know what was concerning her child. "If it isn't your performance then what's bothering you? Did something happen at school today?"
"No, school was fine. It's just…"
"You can tell me anything. Ask me anything, Peanut. Whatever it is, we will figure it out together."
Pondering for a moment, Andre folded his hands on top of the counter then anxiously asked his question. "Aren't kids supposed to want their parents to be together?"
This subject called for another generous layer of his favorite cold cuts topped with another slice of cheese. Because of all the topics Michonne assumed her son would broach, this was the last one she expected.
Stalling by placing the top of the roll on his sandwich before slicing it in half. Then Michonne wiped her hands and quickly retrieved a cold juice pouch from the fridge. Finally, she came around the counter to sit next to Andre giving him her full undivided attention to answer as honestly as she could.
"I'm not sure supposed to automatically applies. Because every situation is different. We've talked about different types of families that exist. Sometimes grandparents raise their grandkids. Other times, it's one parent or multiple parents. Or it can be a huge extended family with aunts, uncles and cousins. You can even create a family with people you aren't blood related to, found family. It just depends on the situation."
Andre nodded thoughtfully. "You should just want everyone to be happy."
"Ideally. But where's this coming from?"
Andre shrugged his shoulders. "Some of the kids at school said that everyone wants their parents to be together. But I- I'm not sure."
Michonne was flummoxed by the pronouncement. Not because it was from a child. Andre was always intuitive and empathic therefore his outlook was on par. What threw her for a loop was her own indecision. While wavering between continuing along with her marriage, she definitely hadn't brought up the subject with her son. Perhaps she should've asked in a roundabout way instead of assuming the same thing the kids at Andre's school thought. Now that he inquired, she could gain his perspective without implanting much sway.
"Tell me a little bit about how you came to that conclusion."
"Well, when you and Dad would argue. I thought it was regular parent stuff. Like dirty dishes. Bills. Laundry. You know, adult stuff." Andre smirked making Michonne chortle at the simplicity, wishing that had been the case.
"I figured Dad would go off on like a timeout. But I saw how mad and… sad it made you."
"Andre…" Michonne's eyes instantly became glassy, overcome by his concern. She reached over to squeeze his little hand accepting the compassion.
"You tried to hide it, but I could tell. And I figured when dad came back, you'd be happy again. Because he's trying but I'm… still a little mad at him too."
Michonne sighed sorrowfully while she searched for her words.
"I was very upset with your father. But I'm not as angry with him anymore. Because I have you."
A gentle tickle to Andre's side made him giggle but he listened intently.
"Aunt Sasha, Uncle Tyreese and all the barbers at the shop. Plus the friends we've made along the way like Glenn, Maggie, Hershel and Carl. And I'm even looking into some great things for myself again."
"Don't forget Mr. Rick. When you're around him, you look happy then too."
Michonne's stomach flipped in two seconds flat. "Yes, Rick is a really nice guy." was all she could string together as her cheeks warmed.
"I like him too. Is… is it okay to like him?"
"Yes, why wouldn't it be?"
"I don't know. Shouldn't I like my dad more than my best friend's dad?"
"Not necessarily. Aren't there days when you like Aunt Sasha more than me?"
Andre fought it but his chortle erupted. "Really that much, huh?"
"Just sometimes. The fun times. Aunt Sasha doesn't tell me to do my homework or clean my room. Or pick up my clothes or take a shower. Or-"
"I get it." Snickering together helped bring lightness so continuing with the complex conversation was more relaxed.
"Could it be the same thing with your father and Rick?"
"Maybe…" Andre pondered. "It's more like I know which one I… trust more. Is that bad?"
Michonne sighed and her eyes welled up again. Even though she held back her tears, her voice became choked up. "Oh no, you have a right to your feelings. In fact, they are more than feelings. You are responding to your own experience."
Michonne caressed her son's cheek. "You don't remember your grandpa-"
"Just from the pictures when I was a baby." Andre gestured towards the wooden frames hung on the hallways wall and smiled warmly.
"He was so happy he got to meet you before it was his time."
"Even though I don't remember, I'm glad too. And at least I have pictures to remind me."
"Plus, all my stories." Michonne and Andre smiled thinking of all her tales.
"My dad was the kind of father I always wanted for you. But even he wasn't perfect. With time, your dad could earn your trust again. I hope he does. In fact, I told him you are becoming a young man and the two of you should sit down and have real conversations. The same way we do."
"Dad talked to me about that. Said he's setting up an appointment for counseling because he's not sure where to start." Andre smiled appreciatively.
"But in the meantime, you have plenty of men in your life you can depend on."
"Mr. Rick told me that too. He said I could count on him also."
"That was very sweet and kind of him."
"You know, I want to be fair to Dad. He's going to be my father for like forever."
They chuckled so their bodies shook releasing some tension.
"He will." Michonne nodded.
"Will you two be married for forever too?"
"I- I…" Michonne closed her mouth not knowing whether it was too much information to burden her child with. But Andre was clearly racked with scenarios, regarding everything evolving around him. The last thing Michonne would do is become yet another person he couldn't trust with his internal feelings.
"Whatever happens between your father and I, know we still love you more than anything in the world. We made you from our love so that will always be with you. And guess what?"
"What?"
"You get to love us each just the way you always have. And in new ways. You can even be mad at us. Worried or sad. It's all normal."
"Really?"
"Yes, we will work through all those emotions together. Even if we are working through our own messy grownup stuff. You can always come and talk to us. If you feel better talking to a trusted adult like Uncle Ty, Mr. Glenn, Aunt Sasha, that's fine also."
"Mr. Rick told me that too."
"See you have lots of people who care about you."
"Because families look different. But as long as love is there then it works." Andre nodded his understanding and grinned. He looked quickly at his plated sandwich and his stomach roared. "I'm starving."
"I can hear that." They laughed as Andre unabashedly eyed his plate.
"You go ahead and eat. Take your time so you don't choke. Once you're finished, we will head over to Hershel's."
"Cool! I'll send him a message." Andre grinned but lunged for the meal instead of his phone making his mother chuckle.
Michonne stood and planted a firm kiss to Andre's temple as he scarfed down his food. She walked around the counter, preparing to put the products used for his meal away.
"Thanks Mama."
"Your always welcome Peanut."
"You know Mama…" Michonne waited instead of turning to the fridge with the jar of mayonnaise in hand to hear the next revelation from her brilliant boy.
"I think you deserve a nice guy."
"Morgan told me you guys haven't officially began showings, but you already have applications. And the corner lot facing the center greenway has multiple offers." Glenn cheerfully proclaimed but Rick sighed, knowing exactly which property referenced.
"Well, that particular one is on hold while one applicant completes the process."
Glenn scrunched his face. "Yeah… but there could be a bidding war. You tell each of them, others are interested. Let them up the price to compete. You can get top dollar on it."
"Yeah, I'm not gonna do that. Not with this particular lot. I should let Morgan know."
Immediately Rick pushed up the sleeves of his cream henley then whipped out his cellphone. Sending the message while Glenn looked perplexed as they stood in his home office.
"I think it would be best for a salon or something like that. We can show the other parties' comparable spaces. If not…" Rick shrugged because he didn't care leaving Glenn more muddled.
Introducing the topic of business was simply a ploy to stick around longer. His stubborn stance went completely against common business acumen, and it seemed Glenn was catching on to his procrastination strategy. Just hopefully, not the real reason why.
"Okay. Not that I'm not glad to have you over. But I figured you'd just drop Carl off and… leave."
The men chortled, Rick nervously. "I didn't know you were in a rush to get me out of here."
"No, it's not that. It's a little strange for parents to hang around when they're getting some freedom from their kids for a weekend. They usually drop the kids off and run before the door even closes." the men laughed knowing it was true. But Rick had a valid purpose for procrastination, he just couldn't share it.
Grimes Construction was processing the many advanced leasing applicants and incoming requests for development deals. While Williams Cuts posted about limited booking availability, all from recent pictures of events posted with local politicians. Thanks to Michonne, business was booming. An understandably busy couple of days for both Rick and Michonne meant they'd not found the opportunity to meet up. Accidental run-ins weren't cutting it anymore.
Her returned admission of affection after Rick's text meant he anxiously awaited telling Michonne about his newly acquired freedom. It couldn't be in a message or even on the phone. In person was the only way. Yet he fretted a bit, hoping she wouldn't be upset by their situation transforming into a love triangle. Additionally, he'd gone against her earlier request not to be the catalyst of his breakup.
However, it wasn't really against Michonne's wishes. Rick willfully ignored his incompatibility with Jessie for what fate he thought was left for him. Only to find out he'd been completely incorrect, and his heart could thump once more. His capacity for great love persisted after all.
Rick would be intentional. So tonight, instead of dropping Carl off and departing, he stalled at Glenn's house hoping it was Michonne bringing Andre. He hadn't thought what he'd do if Mike showed. And shit, he probably should've. But he'd take the risk of discomfort for her.
"Yeah, well…" they both chuckled again as Rick tried to think of new ways to stall while Glenn eyed him suspiciously. Thankfully, rambunctious horse play brought their sons careening down the hallway and into the home office.
"Andre's almost here! He just texted me that his mom is bringing him." Hershel displayed his cellphone for his father excitedly.
Before running off to whatever shenanigans they'd next get into, Carl conspiratorially smiled at his father. Rick smirked trying to keep the excitement down. But he racked his brain for a continued excuse to hang around. Now more than ever.
Yet something in the father and son interaction sparked revelation in Glenn. He suddenly pointed accusatorially at Rick with a dropped jaw.
"You and Michonne..."
"Me and Michonne, what?"
"Ohhh, I kind of got the sense that something was up with you two. It was palpable even when you were across the room from one another." Glenn muttered to himself, but Rick sighed dismissively and unconvincingly.
"You both disappeared at the same time." Glenn gasped with wide eyes.
"I don't know what you think you saw. But you didn't."
"Dude!"
"Keep your voice down." Rick spoke in a hushed tone.
"What are you going to do?"
Chewing his lip because the jig was clearly up, Rick deliberated on how to reply. He closed the office door while Glenn enthusiastically waited. "I- I don't know how everything's gonna land. But I broke up with Jessie. Just yesterday."
"Wow and you're going to tell Michonne tonight?"
"I was." he worried when Glenn blew a breath out. "You don't think I should?"
"No, of course. You must've talked about this already."
Rick scratched the back of his neck, drawing Glenn's attention. "You did, right?"
"Well, not since the start of things."
"And what was the verdict?"
"She… she told me not to."
"Dude!"
"I know. I know. But I had to. I couldn't continue faking things and stringing Jessie along."
"That's true." Glenn deliberated fully engrossed.
"It wasn't right. And I admitted it to Jessie and apologized."
Deciding to leave out that she'd not taken it well was a choice. It would undoubtedly have Glenn wincing about the situation and Rick didn't need that type of negativity right now.
"Well, how long did you date Jessie?"
The question caught Rick off guard, but he answered out of curiosity. "Less than a year, why?
"Hmm… then it's probably for the best. I mean with the rumors and all."
"What do you mean? Rumors? About Jessie?" Rick squinted and the look of I've misspoken on Glenn's face told him everything.
"Matter of fact. When we first met, you made a face after I confirmed I was dating Jessie. I didn't push it then but go ahead and spit whatever it is out."
"I figured if you already broke up with Jessie, you'd finally heard." Glenn cringed but went on. "Look, you probably figured out by now. I'm no good at keeping secrets."
"Yeah, that's why I am asking. And I also haven't confirmed anything I've been up to with you."
"Good, plausible deniability for me if or when the shit hits the fan."
"Glenn."
"Sorry. Look. Pete's breakdown was the official report of why they divorced. And he is an asshole. Doctor or not. But no one talks about this openly, rather behind Jessie's back. But rumors spread that the real reason was… she had multiple affairs."
Rick didn't have to wonder why she wouldn't reveal her infidelity to him. It could amount to shame, embarrassment or fear he wouldn't have become romantically involved with her had he known the truth.
"But that was during her marriage. What does that have to do with me?"
"Well, people were saying it was still going on a few months back. Not too long… before you moved here."
Glenn flinched again, sorry to be the bearer of bad news. "I never knew who it was or any details. I wanted no parts because Councilman Ridge has connections with the community planning committee. Who I need to play nice with to gain county contracts."
Leaning in to whisper even though the door was closed, Glenn provided a little more information. "But whatever happened was enough that her father wanted it smashed."
"Hmm…"
Rick wasn't stupid either. He had suspicions too. At first, he thought the trauma of being cheated on by Lori plagued him with skepticism. When Jessie asked for him to move closer, he figured whatever it was had ended. With distance and uncertainty throughout most of their relationship, he was willing to move past hidden indiscretions and make a go of it. Figuring Jessie would ultimately be forthcoming with time and patience of course.
Yet in recent weeks, Rick had come to terms that his lack of concern regarding Jessie's past doings were- abnormal. Because even if he didn't openly admit it. He was quite envious of the man that got to call Michonne his wife. The man wasting his opportunity to walk hand in hand in the sunshine with a goddess. This insight provided another layer of how imbalanced his feelings were for his relationship with Jessie.
Meanwhile, Glenn looked more staggered than him, having divulged all this detail. But the relationship with Jessie was over. And Rick was more than ready to move forward. Besides, even if he had cared enough to be upset, what could he say. He cheated on her. Glass houses and all that made him thankful he'd cut the cord. Because there was nothing she could do to get him back.
"I feel like everyone was seeing someone. In some cases, more than one." Rick sarcastically rolled his eyes at his friends comment.
"Maggie started dating before me. She's seeing some guy named Alden. And don't get me wrong, I'm happy for her. It just feels like everyone started finding their new someone before I even thought I could, you know."
"Wait, you're seeing someone?"
Glenn sighed nervously. "I went out with Michonne's friend, Sasha. A couple times."
"What? Sasha? Sasha Williams actually went out with you?"
"Don't act so surprised. Geesh."
"I'm sorry. I just assumed you fumbled with the way you were acting at the event." Rick smirked but Glenn exhaled deeply.
"I thought so too. But she found it… charming. I guess."
"Then why the long face?"
"Sasha says she really likes me. How could she really like me so soon?"
Rick slapped a palm to his head. "Do you like her already?"
Glenn blushed uncontrollably. "Yeah."
"So why couldn't she like you back?"
"I guess you're right a lot. Not about the cheating but-"
Rick exhaled, shaking his head. "You don't think I know that. I've tried to make amends, but I've got to move forward with where I want to be. Who I want to be with fore-"
An idea pushed to the back of his mind leapt to the forefront. He was free to consider all possibilities now. "Actually, Glenn. Can I get Sasha's number?"
"Why?" Glenn was confused but still pulled out his phone.
"I think she might be able to help me with something. If things go the way I want."
Saving the number just as the doorbell rang, Rick and Glenn anxiously looked at one another.
"Good luck."
"Thanks."
Rick's stomach flipped as they departed the office for the front door. He hung back nervously to not crowd the entryway with his expectations. But Glenn, being a great friend, invited an apologizing Michonne inside.
"Sorry, we are late."
"Not a problem."
"It's been such a hectic week."
"That's okay. Come in for a minute."
"I was just going to-" Michonne pointed over her shoulder. She'd planned on doing the usual quick drop off. Going over the extensive paperwork for the salon space was tonights plan until Andre skipped inside before her.
His little brown eyes lit up, not from just the anticipation of the weekend ahead but from seeing Rick smiling at him. The youngster raced over initialing the tight hug from the man he appeared to admire greatly.
"What are you doing here, Mr. Rick?"
"I um… stuck around for…"
Dithering on how to explain to a child that he was secretly there to see his mother had Rick tripping over his words. His vacillating ceased when the warm chocolate eyes he longed for gleamed happy surprise at him from the doorway. Her coquettish grin payment enough for all his uncertainty.
Carl and Hershel galloped down the stairs excited by their friend's arrival but stopped short. Glenn and Andre stood pleasantly observing the shared bashful look between Rick and Michonne. Trying to hide their connection was failing miserably as they grinned uncontrollably.
With watchful eyes, avoidance would have been Michonne's go to posture. Especially with the way her nerves rattled since her confession the other night. She could tell Rick was nervous but optimistic because the overwhelming desire to be around one another always won out. She had to break this spell as naturally as it could be before they said or did too much in front of the captivated audience.
"Carl. Hershel." she waved the boys over for a hug that they gratefully returned then backed away to watch Rick saunter over. He leaned into place what should've been a chaste kiss to her soft cheek, but he lingered a bit too long.
"Hi, Rick." muttered with a soft exhale making goosebumps erupt on his skin. Being this close knowing they both longed for one another was as intoxicating as her sweet scent. It filled his airways, and he inhaled deeper.
"Chonne." he hummed back since they had lost all form of decorum. Delighted by the smooth breaths escaping through her heart shaped lips he so wanted to taste. But Rick fought to step back before he lost total control.
He walked back to Andre who he also missed very much. While Carl, understanding the assignment, grasped Michonne's hand coaxing her further inside. He began to chat with her, Glenn and Hershel while his father talked to his other best friend.
"Andre, how's rehearsal coming along?"
His project being mentioned with interest made the boy gleam. "It's hard work but I'm ready."
"I know there will be a packed house. I'm planning on getting a seat close to the stage."
Andre smiled recognizing the level of support he was receiving. It reaffirmed everything his mother just assured him of to be true. "I'll look for you and my mom when I'm on stage."
After a pause to allow Rick time to smile, Andre shrugged. "My dad says he's going to come too. Well, that's what he said when we went to the museum together."
"How did that go?"
"It was cool. Almost like the old days."
Rick snickered. "The old days?"
"Yep, the old days." Andre grinned amusedly. "My dad still wants to take me to a basketball game though."
"Think about it this way. You get to spend more time with him. While it gives you a chance to tell him about the things you prefer to do. Maybe make him a list until he gets the hang of it. Just some ideas to steer him in the right direction."
"But sports would help me make new friends in middle school."
"You're a great kid. With or without sports you'll be making lots of new friends."
"Maybe. But I'll have Hershel and Andre either way."
"You will. And I know I'm an adult, but I hope you'll consider me a friend too." Maybe even more was on the tip of his tongue, but Rick didn't want to put the cart before the horse. But Andre smiled and nodded.
"I know you are scared to trust your dad's word right now. But I think you'll be okay if you decide to give him another try. You've got a lot of people who care about you to fill in wherever you need. If he shows up or he doesn't, you'll be okay."
"I think you are right."
Reaching to rub the boy's hair, Rick spotted his fresh haircut so he averted his hand to his shoulder. An encouraging squeeze made Andre grin appreciatively. Michonne re-emerged from the kitchen with Glenn just in time to witness their connection.
She grinned walking over to hug her son. "Sorry to interrupt but I'm heading out."
"Yeah, I should be going now too." Rick swiftly added.
"Andre, your father will pick you up Sunday. But message me if anything."
"Okay." Andre squeezed her again just as Carl and Hershel came out of nowhere to surround her for a group hug.
"Alright let Ms. Michonne go." Glenn chuckled, playfully freeing her from the tangle of prepubescent arms.
The boys simply waved at Rick before scurrying up the stairs, making Glenn laugh. "Wow, no hugs for Rick? That's brutal."
Enjoying when Rick's eye crinkling laughs formed from bashfulness or playful embarrassment was quickly becoming one of Michonne's favorite things to witness. Glenn feeling accomplished opened the front door allowing them to exit. Another small wave to the kids who laughed inside sent the pair down the short set of steps towards the sidewalk.
An immediate tension filled the air at the bottom of the steps as Michonne coyly waited for Rick to initiate. They each desired closeness while simultaneously being unnerved by what they admitted in texts.
"Do you have time?"
Michonne coyly grinned looking him over. Blood pumped wildly through Rick whenever her salacious eyes surveyed him. "I could make some."
"My place?"
"At this time of day? What if your girlfriend shows up?"
'I don't have a girlfriend. Anymore.' Was on the tip of his tongue as he shrugged his shoulders. But blurting it out in order to get Michonne alone in his home felt dastardly. He didn't want to risk sending the wrong message about his feelings for her either. He'd have to find his moment.
"Where is the question?"
The sway of hips combined with the plumpness of Michonne's ass in leggings created a siren song. Leading Rick's bowlegs to follow his enchantress further down the sidewalk.
"Let's go somewhere people won't see us. Someplace private." Rick whispered from behind.
"In this town?" Michonne coquettishly smirked over her shoulder.
Looking at his wristwatch, an idea came to Rick. "The construction site is closing down right about now. If we take the back roads, we'll get there after everyone's long gone. There's one security guard patrolling the grounds, but that's it."
Michonne faced him, biting her lip drawing his eyes to her mouth as she fiendishly deliberated. "You could give me a tour of your trailer."
Rick glanced down at the growing bulge in his pants then back at her with a grin. "If there's time. Sure."
No words came from Michonne's lips yet the scandalous look on her face told the story. She pulled out her keys then proceeded the rest of the way to her car. Rick fought for control of his legs due to the blood pumping rapidly towards his manhood. Because he knew when she unleashed her vixen side, they were sure to achieve satisfaction.
Only once Michonne was safe in her car, did Rick get in his vehicle. Pulling off after her they drove to the back roads just as a light drizzle began to fall. But as they navigated the darker and seldom traveled route, the precipitation picked up. Eventually growing too heavy for the windshield wipers to be effective.
With her hazards on, Michonne searched for a place to pull over. In a moment of clarity, she realized where they were located. An underpass was coming up shortly. They could pull off there and wait out the storm.
The rain would lighten up with enough time to enjoy themselves at his office, Michonne hoped as she pulled over. The deep shoulder allowed her to park well away from the driving lanes in case someone else was caught in the unforeseen weather. Through the rearview mirror she could see Rick parking directly on her bumper, his hazards flashing as well.
Opening the weather app, Michonne sighed. The rain would come down heavily for the next hour or so. They were effectively trapped because the risk of driving on the old roads was too high. Especially since Michonne couldn't remember its flood prone spots. Her phone was still in hand when a message arrived.
'Stay in your car, I'll come to you'
The old railway tracks above provided inadequate cover from the downpour. Gaps above meant raindrops tapped an unrelenting pattern against the metal of their vehicles. The sound trancelike soothing away any worry about hiding out with one's lover in public. And Rick hastily ran over to jump in the passenger door Michonne unlocked for him.
"I didn't think you would get so wet." she giggled causing Rick to examine his Henley. Raindrops highlighted the strength of his forearms where his sleeves were rolled up to. His hair was a tad wet, laying on his face so he had to run his fingers through it to get it out the way.
"Me neither. Good thinking stopping here. Storms gonna take a while to pass us."
"Yeah, I just checked."
Her breathy tone supplied Rick with reason to postpone his plans of necessary conversation in their hiatus. The building hunger partnering it's urgency with the tapping of increased rainfall. Two storms, brewing in the dark of night with no one else on the road to witness.
"Wonder what we could do to pass the time."
Overcome by the fact that he was now free, Rick moistened his lips. He realized he was now permitted to admire the delectable woman enclosed within their tight confines. That the fulfillment he desired to deliver her could be enacted, on his part, without guilt. It was of course selfish knowing that Michonne was still in a predicament. But Rick's appetite for her was unbearable.
"Get in the back."
Michonne panted from the force of his starved stare. "What?"
Rick leaned into her space. The pitter patter of the rain picked up mirroring her racing heart. Anticipating a kiss, Michonne preemptively wet her lips. But instead, Rick reached past slightly grazing her trembling body to find the lever, reclining her seat fully.
"Get in the back." Authoritatively stated, Rick expected her compliance.
The rain had dampened him, but Michonne was soaked. And she began to tentatively scoot back on trembling limbs in the awkward space.
"Wait. Take these off."
Shimmying and maneuvering the best she could under darkening blue eyes, Michonne kicked off her boots. Removing her socks and leggings before she reached for her black boy short panties.
"Don't."
Her fingers froze in acquiescence. But she understood a ravenous thirst needing to be quenched. Separating her long legs and leaning back on her elbows, she impatiently waited as currents of anticipation shot through her wanting body.
A bib wasn't necessary therefore snatching his shirt off was the first order of business for Rick. He could scarcely get the material off fast enough with her fat print begging for his touch. For his lips. His tongue.
Coarse hands skimmed her supple skin making her squirm and him groan with hedonistic delight. Measured and paced was the method Rick would deploy. Bent down, he almost lost sight of the plan when the heady scent of her arousal tripled his thirst. His nose pressed against the cotton center, inhaling deeply while purposely stimulating her clitoris. The unspoken begging evident in her quivering moan.
Teasing digits rubbed up and down her lips. Moving the dampened material to the side occurred quicker than either of them anticipated. Looking at her pussy, Rick relished at the pink still seen in the darkness. When Michonne whimpered, he obliged her with the expert use of his tongue. Hungrily sucking and fingering her joined the mix because she tasted too damn good to resist.
Distant lights abruptly appeared, growing brighter telling Michonne a vehicle approached. Yet the sensation of being eaten off the bone trapped her in a place of uncaring. When her eyes rolled upwards from watching herself being made a meal of, she saw the car windows had fortuitously fogged up. The engine of the passing car roared, reminding she could loudly voice her pleasure.
"Fuck!"
"Rick!"
"Yes!"
In enthusiastic fashion, Michonne rolled her waist into Rick's face from the bottom. All the while his facial hair scratched her delicacy. Intoxicatingly yanking his locs seemed a fair distribution of pleasing torment. And Rick was nearly convinced he couldn't survive if she stopped her motions. But he was in a teasing mood and sharply ceased all his actions.
"Why'd you stop?" Michonne puffed from frustration, staring wide eyed at Rick when he sat up. When trying to squeeze her legs together for sweet friction, he stopped her. She was just about to cum and this game was exasperating. She needed to set loose the stress trapped in her body all week.
"Are you frustrated? Irritated?"
She panted while tremors shook her body so she could only nod her answer.
"That's how it feels when you hold back with me. I don't want you to hold back."
"I won't!" Michonne tried to convince squirming when his strong hands returned to her. His fingers hooked into the thin lace of her panties, deftly ripping the obstacle apart. His breathes jutted out roughly while narrowing in on what he yearned for.
"Come here."
Rick roughly pulled her up by the neck, kissing her passionately and wildly. Tongue slopping gratuitously while Michonne grasped his toned arms. His shoulders. Rubbed up and down his back. Into his curls lastly to repeat it all again as though her hands couldn't reach enough places at once. But Rick was laser focused on keeping her juicy lips against his until she eagerly grasped his dick. Rock hard through the denim.
"You want it?" he managed between the tongue wrestling. "Take it out."
Michonne didn't need to hear anymore. Once she had his thickness freed, she used her salivation to her advantage. Spitting on his smooth head she spread the moisture down.
"Fuck! You're so bad."
He allowed her a few pumps because he enjoyed watching her wrist work. Then he reluctantly navigated away to lay down. Eying her as she eagerly awaited directions, Rick finally provided them.
"Sit on it."
On her knees, Michonne could feel the wetness leaking down her inner thighs. She didn't know if she could manage to ride while the charged energy threatened to combust in her. The confines of the car restricted also, but she climbed into position. Straddling Rick while he firmly held his delectable cock up for her. She hesitated once hovered over his throbbing dick, trying to figure out how she'd deliver. But Rick caught her eye.
"I want to see the woman that showed up at my door in red bondage lingerie."
Michonne's body trembled, and she knew she'd have to fight to stay in the game. She desperately wanted to satisfy Rick. To release herself from shame and guilt. To top him all while he dominated her. His words cast a spell over her. Emerging now was her concealed hellcat as she lowered allowing his head to breach her entrance.
"Take it. Slowly."
"Inch by inch."
The murmuring of his instructions tightened her muscles and Rick hissed while she did as was told. Her breath held so she could focus on his plentiful moans. His hands dug into her sides, not leading but holding on for dear life. His eyes examining their union each time she lifted to fall again. The precipitation increased once more inspiring a surge in her movements.
"Yes, there she is. My bad girl."
Smacking her ass, ignited something carnal in Michonne. Her yelp hastened her groans. And Rick relished in her hands roaming his torso until they came up to yank his hair, pulling them into a sloppy kiss. He could feel every squeeze and clinch as she whined. Thinking she was in control turned Rick on to no end. But he was about to turn the tables on her. Taking her wrists, he crossed them behind her back.
"Remember when I was cuffed? I wanted to touch you so bad." From the bottom Rick pistoned into her wet pussy, faster and deeper. Her whimpers coming out with each upward thrust.
"I think you should be punished for having me sneak off at the event too."
"Oh shit!"
Michonne was losing the battle against his rhythm. She wanted to come apart with Rick. To continue their synchronization. Her kegels were her only defense. And once she enacted them deliberately her hands found their freedom. Rick discharged his grip on her wrists, switching to gingerly wrap his fingers around her neck.
"Ohhh. You want to cum. I can feel it." he taunted from below since she couldn't speak. "Does that feel good?"
"Mhmm." Michonne groaned as her breasts in her bra and under her shirt, jiggled with each rapid entry.
"Keep going. Let it happen. It feels so good, right?" Rick moved his hands to her ass forcing her down to meet his propulsion.
"Yes! Rick!"
A renewed fury overtook Michonne. She pushed Rick down and placed her palms flat on his chest. She used him for the leverage she needed to slap her cheeks. The wet slap reverberated providing competition against the plummeting rain hitting the metal roof.
"Make me cum. Chonne. Fuck me until I cum." Rick repeatedly begged.
Her pace multiplied, rocking the car to and fro. Tightened her muscles on partial exits, Michonne rode this bucking bronco like a cowgirl at the county fair. Moaning and groaning they both couldn't help but Rick also pled for his end.
"Don't stop. Don't stop! You can do it. Make me cum. I wanna cum inside you!"
Michonne could feel his dick twitching as his nut jetting its way up his shaft to explode inside her.
"Fuck!" Rick shouted using the last spasm of energy to pull Michonne to him. Her body quivered before her matching eruption sent her into convulsions. Her muscles had locked so tightly she welcomed the climax. All the pressure converting into euphoria, collapsing her body against Rick's chest. Her relaxed weight on him meant they'd done a fantastic job.
They remained there panting unable to move. Their brains not computing how they'd gotten themselves contorted in this small space. Or how they'd get out of it.
Eventually, the heat was too much since Michonne never removed her shirt. She reluctantly fished around the door handle, cracking the window. They dragged in cool air only then realizing the rain had slowed significantly. The risk of traffic on the road had returned.
Moving carefully, Michonne rose to gently detach from Rick so they both winced. Then she plopped in the passenger seat before taking a breath. She searched in the dark for her discarded clothing and snorted.
Just as breathless, Rick sat up in the driver's seat because he wanted to know what could be funny. His legs were trapped in his boxers and jeans around his ankles and that made him want to chortle. But Michonne answered his unasked question.
"Mike suggested I get payback to make things even between us."
Rick's eyes shot open countering Michonne's relaxed state. He forgot he was in the midst of wiggling his bottoms up and gaped at his companion. "What you think he suspects?"
His concern alarmed slightly. "Maybe we should play it safe?"
Even more panicked, Rick turned to Michonne. "Why? You said you wouldn't pull away from me again."
In the glove compartment, she retrieved cleansing wipes kept just in case Andre made a mess on the road. After pulling one free, she offered another to Rick which he accepted. It wasn't lost on him that she used the process of washing and dressing to avoid eye contact.
"There was the close call at the development event. Then the zoo. We've involved the kids. Things are getting close for comfort. Every time his demeanor is different, or he wants to talk. I wonder if it is the moment this all blows up. I'm relieved when he only brings up us working things out."
Rick stared out the windshield from worry, now that he was back in his pants. His heart ached wondered which way Michonne leaned in those conversations. Maybe giving her space to determine what she wanted would be the best course over springing his desires on her.
A deep exhale was also necessary to decrease his jealousy when her husband was presented as a blockade. Rick wondered if it was the same for Michonne when Jessie was mentioned. But now that wouldn't be an issue. Telling Michonne about his breakup would alleviate his fears.
But… it would also leave Michonne in a one-sided battle with hers. It seemed unfair. Rick didn't want to disregard her boundaries. Didn't want her to pick him because he applied the wrong amount of pressure. That could plant future insecurities that could unexpectedly breach the surface, sending their continued happiness awry.
"I'm sorry, if I might've made things worse for you."
Michonne softened understanding the anxiety playing out on Rick's handsome face. She'd fixed her clothing subtly watching him working their complications out in his mind. The possibility of her withdrawal unnerved him.
Reaching over to caress his beard until he turned back to face her, allowed their eyes to lock. "You've done the exact opposite."
Tenderly, Rick began to smile from the reinforcement. He took Michonne's hand in his, kissing her wrist. His lips moved to her fingers pausing at the digit next to her pinky. He didn't let her hand go, coveting the physical connection. Needing it while he asked his next question.
"What would playing it safe look like?"
Michonne gestated unsure herself. Because she knew what the easiest way would've been. Not to have started. Not to unearth this yearning. Not to begin an affair.
"You can talk to me. Tell me your reservations."
Holding back on having this conversation with Michonne was really his fear of not being good enough again. Of failing another relationship. Of the woman of his dreams telling him he didn't meet her standard. Self-doubt quietly plagued Rick throughout his life. Yet it wouldn't stop him from knowing her truth.
"Please, Chonne."
When he pleaded with his shortened version of her name in a whisper, it was her Achilles heel. Michonne swallowed hard.
"I know we should end this because it can't end well."
"You don't know that."
"Rick-"
"Michonne…" he carefully pronounced every syllable of her name.
"How you get em, is how you lose em."
"You think… you think I would cheat on you?"
Michonne countered. "Would you trust me?"
"I would." There was no hesitation causing a demure smile to bloom on her beautiful face. Rick moved closer, staring directly into her big brown eyes. "You can trust me Michonne. I would never hurt you."
Michonne nodded but Rick could tell she was unconvinced. He needed more time. More uninterrupted time.
"I have been thinking about something for a while." Michonne leaned in, keen for her fears to be dissuaded. "These rushed and stolen moments aren't enough."
"What do you mean?"
"Just that. Maybe we should find a way to spend more quality time together."
"You mean outside of a car?" the pair chuckled but Michonne was still unsure.
"The way I see it, it's the way we can figure out where we could head with this."
Michonne smirked at his charming nervousness. "That is definitely not us playing it safe…"
Rick waited on bated breath while she deliberated. "…but maybe we should."
The optimistic smile couldn't be kept from brightening Rick's face. "Drive out to Atlanta or maybe..."
"Ohhh. You mean away, away. As in a trip?"
He nodded his clarification. "How about… an overnight to start with?"
"Where?"
"It doesn't matter to me. As long as we're together."
Michonne blushed uncontrollably. But Rick wouldn't allow her to hide her face. His fingers gently held her chin up.
"You are so unbelievably beautiful. And I can't wait to spend more time with you."
Soft kisses being applied to her neck made her eyes roll closed before his next question arrived. "Soon?"
"Soon?" she asked in a whimper. The heat rising with every kiss continually applied to her sensitive skin.
"Sooner the better."
Grinning mischievously as a prospect occurred to her. "Mike suggested Sasha and I have a girl's trip. Would this Sunday be too soon?"
"Not at all. I can move some stuff and things around at the site. I'll ask Lori to pick Carl up from Glenn's."
Deliberation wasn't an option. Rick would make it work. He wouldn't risk scaring Michonne off especially when her openness provided an approaching date. But he kept charting a path to her earlobe with his lips, so she moaned.
"As long as I'm back on Tuesday for a doctor's appointment."
Concern registered in his eyes when he pulled back to examine her. But she smiled wanting to soothe him.
"Routine maintenance." she giggled at his confused but accepting face. "So, a staycation? Or somewhere else?"
"How about… you let me worry about that."
"Okay." Michonne coquettishly smiled as Rick pulled her to him.
His quick kisses intensified to sucks of her heart shaped lips. Just as they eagerly grasped one another an interrupting ringtone sounded from Rick's phone.
Spicks and Specks was still a curious choice making Michonne raise an eyebrow. "Has that become a common ringtone?"
Annoyed by the interruption, Rick fumbled to find the dropped device. Wanting to handle things like adults meant he'd not blocked Jessie. But right now, he regretted it. "No, I don't think so."
The thumping of the rain picked back up created a heady reminder of what they were about to do again, before the disruption. Fingers weaved into his curls making Rick's eyes roll closed. Michonne's lips paved a path to his ear before the ringtone started going off again.
Huffing, not wanting to leave the rapture, Rick fumbled around on the floor mat. Finding the phone, he intended to silence until Michonne snatched it from his hand. He simpered enjoying her bad girl side reemerging as she glanced at the screen.
It was Jessie of course.
Perhaps Michonne should feel bad, but she didn't. She was enjoying this way too much. Smirking at the screen, she spoke to the phone as though the caller could hear her without picking up.
"Stop calling his phone. I'm not done with him yet."
Declining the call gave her such pleasure. And Rick boyishly snickered when she turned the device off. He watched her chuck it in the back seat, so he burst out laughing. Michonne winked at him then fell forward crashing her lips against his. He groaned as the temperature rose, the evidence clouding the windows once more.
And as they kissed and groped at one another, secretly Rick hoped that Michonne never would be done with him.