5 comments/  34273 views/  2 favorites

Dry Valley Ch. 01

By: RedHairedandFriendly



Dry Valley Ch. 01 - Jessica Returns

Jessica sat at the back of the bus, wondering when she'd finally be able to get off; she had been riding for the last several hours. She grabbed the soda from between her legs, opened the top and took a long swing. Tired and hungry she looked at the scenery pass her by.

She saw the green trees blur as the Greyhound moved faster down the highway; she didn't look forward to the trip home. She hadn't been back since her mom died, even then she had sworn not to go back. In her heart though, even back then, she knew she would. People who left Dry Valley always came back; it was like an invisible rope pulling them in, sucking them into a vortex of nothingness.

The white line of the highway became a fast moving track that Jessica found herself watching; it blurred along with the rest of the road. The blacktop, the gravel, even the grass became almost one big blur of colors as Jessica remembered the day she left Dry Valley.

The funeral for her mom had ended and Jessica was upstairs remembering her, reflecting on her life, before Gary had entered it. She didn't understand what her mom saw in him. He was drunk most of the time, and high the rest, usually both. Her mom wasn't like that, her mom was anything but a drinker. She detested drugs, but with Gary, it was like he was her drug. He had come into her room, told her he wanted her out. She had no problems with that, he tossed her an envelope full of cash and the 17 year old Senior was gone within the hour, never looking back, until now. Jessica stayed the last few months of school with the O'Grady's, graduated, then took charge of her life.

Gary had given her mom something no man had ever given her since Jessica's dad died; Gary had given her mom stability. He had swooped in one day and melted her mother's heart with kind words and gentle smiles. Showered her with gifts, took her and Jessica to parks and sporting events; he was a perfect gentleman, until the third week.

Jessica had only been six when Gary moved in. She had liked him in the beginning, what six year old wouldn't. He had come in, given her new clothes, toys, games, even a pet bunny. Then he had started bringing in his friends. Men and women soon were spending the nights on their sofa or in their guest room. Once her mom, came and took Jessica to a hotel to sleep.

By the time Jessica was 10 she pretty much knew what was going on. She had figured out how Gary afforded all the extravagant gifts he gave her and her mom. He had his own little business on the side. The transaction became more open once Gary made friends with the local police chief, soon Jessica's room would have a few bags of the white powder in her closet and even some in her bottom drawer. She didn't know for certain what it was at the time, but she understood Gary's threats; if she touched it, he'd kill her mom.

She believed him, and now at the age of 23, she still believes he would have. Gary was dead now, his life taken out by the same officer that he had befriended years ago. The officer had died too, just a month later. It was an old friend of her mother's that had called Jessica, telling her the news. Jessica had been surprised that anyone knew where she was. Mrs. O'Grady had told her that Gary always knew, and he had given her the information in case she ever needed to be called.

The greyhound began to slow and Jessica looked up, only a few people were on the bus. She was curious as to where the other travelers were going, but she only had her imagination to carry her with them. No one had sat with her, and though she was thankful for the quietness, she admitted it would have been nice to have someone there to speak with on occasion. She watched the town get closer, the bus on its final route, at least for Jessica.

When it pulled up to the small bus stop Jessica grabbed her duffel bag and her purse. Easing her way down the isle, she smiled at the driver. He had seemed a nice man, reminded Jessica of Mr. O'Grady, she wondered how the old couple were. She walked off the steps of the bus and down onto the sidewalk. Taking a deep breath, she began to walk towards the home that now belonged to her.

Gary had left her everything. To her it didn't seem like much. It was her mother's home first, and in her heart it was always her mother's and Gary's, but never Jessica's. She had decided to come here, see if anything touched her heart enough to warrant taking it back to Atlanta. If not, she'd let the O'Grady's have their pick, have a garage sale, and then go home. She had a life in Atlanta, and she wanted to finish the chapter of Dry Valley, so she could go back.

Rounding the corner, Jessica saw the house. The one for six years she had only faint memories of happy times, and the ones after that were blurred with few smiles and even more tears. Each step she took brought her closer to the picket fence and the small gate that locked her out. Lifting the latch, she pushed it open and walked towards the porch that circled the house. The porch swing hung low, while the gentle breeze pushed it back and forth.

Jessica stopped and looked at the swing, she just wasn't ready to go in yet. Putting her purse and bag down, she went to the swing. Her fingers trailed over the chains that held it suspended in the air. She turned around, scooting herself onto it, and rested there. Her eyes looked out to the well kept lawn and the tulips that were blooming. "The O'Grady's," she sighed.

Jessica looked over at the O'Grady's place, scooted herself from the porch swing, picked up her duffel bag and purse, then fished out her keys to her old life from the envelope that Mrs. O'Grady had mailed to her. Her hand trembled as she inserted the key, turned it, then heard the click that released her past and pushed it to her present.

Closing her eyes, taking a deep breath, she opened them, and then pushed open the door of her previous life. Jessica breathed deep the hint of lemon and Murphy's Oil Soap, she chuckled, "I should have known." She laughed as she set her belongings inside the door, and closed it behind her. The lamp on the table was lit, Jessica smiled, picked up the phone that rested there and dialed the O'Grady's.

"Hello?" the little voice answered, after several rings.

"Hi Mrs. O. I'm here, and I wanted to thank you for the house, it looks great, you must have been working all week to make it smell and look so pleasant."

"Oh, Jessie dear, welcome back, I'll be right over."

"No, you rest, I'm going to settle in, do some shopping and then make a few calls, I'll come over and visit in the morning, okay."

"All right, love, if that is what you want, I had help with the house, once my daughter and her family heard you were coming home, they all set to work making that place livable again, and we stocked the refrigerator and cabinets for you also."

Jessica laughed, "Thanks Mrs. O, I'll see you tomorrow okay."

"Sounds lovely, and Mitch and Tom will be over later to fix the leak you have in the sink and the whole in the roof."

"What? When? and Who?"

She heard the quiet laugh, "Oh, you have two handsome handymen that are going to be working on your home for you, Mr. O'Grady insisted, they'll be over later this evening I think, you rest dear, bye." She hung up the phone before Jessica could say anything else, "Well Mr. O'Grady," she said as she turned to her elderly husband, "I think Dry Valley's gem just returned to town, and soon we'll all be a bit brighter in the neighborhood."

"No match making now," her husband told her.

"I would never, besides she needs someone to fix the leak and patch the roof," Mrs. O'Grady smiled, patted her husband's hand and moved back to the kitchen. The grandchildren were coming tomorrow and she had dozens of cookies to make.

Jessica sighed as she heard the dial tone, hanging up the phone, she ran her fingers through her hair, and pulled herself up to her full height of 5'9" and headed to the bathroom, "I bet that is fully stocked to."

Jessica moved throughout the house, it looked as if someone had just left for a moment, not months. She went to her old bedroom and sat down. The bed not hers, the dresser no longer hers, nothing was the same. Her eyes scanned the picture window, the tree that stood there was now ten feet taller, she smiled as she remembered her and her mom planting it one Arbor Day.

She stood up and walked over to the window. Jessica pushed with all her might, still the window refused to budge, "Damn!"

"It's nailed shut," the voice in the doorway called to her.

Jessica spun around and looked into the face of Mitch Walker. "Hello, Mitch."

"Jess," he walked over to the window, a hammer in his hands, pulled the nails, raised the window and left.

She watched him leave, then sat down as memories of her high school sweetheart and his twin brother assaulted her senses.

Memories consumed Jessica, thoughts of her and the brothers passing notes in class. The time Tom and Mitch dared her to streak naked across the baseball field, granted she'd only been 10 but it was fun. Her mom had spanked her for that; she had deserved it, but still it had smarted. The time she and Tom kissed under the rope swing, that hung from the tallest tree out by the Walker's pond, brought a sigh to her lips and then she recalled when she had ended up kissing Mitch a year later, under that same tree, and feeling her heart melt in his hands.

The Walker place was outside of town, the road that led to the farm was graveled and stirred up dust if you so much as shuffled your feet on it. She had loved it out there as a kid, sometimes, her mom would take her out there if Gary was having a big party or an even bigger deal go down.

She had grown up all over town, being shuffled from one house to the next; perhaps that's why she found herself, so at odds within the walls of her mother's home. It only held a few memories for her, but Dry Valley itself held all of them.

The Walker's, the O'Grady's, even the soda shop had more memories built up inside their walls then this little two story home. She listened to the two brothers that were downstairs; their voices muffled, but every now and then she'd pick up a word. Her name was spoken once or twice, but not after that.

Mitch's voice brought thoughts that carried her to heated make-out sessions in his truck after football games. She remembered how much she loved him, and how often he loved her. Now as the sound of his voice came back to her, she was filled with a rush of goose-bumps. She could hear him down stairs, along with tools hitting the floor. "Ow!" she heard one of them shout.

"Tom," she thought. Jessie closed her eyes and remembered the night before graduation, then shuddered as the thoughts tried to pull her back to that awful time.

"So," she thought to herself once more, "Tom knows I'm here, Mitch does as well, so with the help of Mrs. O, the whole town will be over here with my luck." She stood up, stretched, and walked to the door, closing it softly. Grabbing the duffle bag, she pulled out her clothes for the next few days, along with a small kit, that contained her bathroom necessities.

She placed them in the connecting bathroom and grinned at the pink lacy curtains that hung over the window. She saw Mrs. O's work everywhere she went, thankful for that touch of love that she had missed over the last several years.

"Hey, Jess."

She spun around and saw Tom standing behind her, "Hello stranger," she smiled back, wondering if he was going to be just as quiet as his brother had.

"Come here." He grabbed her arms and swept her into a big hug. She grinned against his chest and hugged him back. "You still smell good," he whispered against her hair, "nice to see some things don't change."

"Yes, some things don't change do they." Mitch's voice came from the bedroom, his blue eyes running over the embracing pair.

Jessie looked over Tom's shoulder and recognized the look she received from him five years ago, just a month before she left Dry Valley. He had misunderstood then and was misunderstanding again.

"Hello again Mitch," she said as she left the warmth of his brother's arms. Giving herself a mental shake, she spun Tom's body around, and pushed him out of the bathroom, "I've got to go, so out you go."

Tom grinned back, "Need any help?"

"Get Tom," she laughed, then shut the door behind her. Jessica leaned against it, trying to listen to what the brother's were saying.

"You don't change do you?" Mitch's voice came through the wooden door.

Tom's voice followed quickly, "Look's like you don't either, still holding that grudge."

"Well you fucked my girlfriend," Mitch yelled then lowered his voice, "you screwed her real good, then dumped her. You planning on doing that again?"

Jessica shook her head in disbelief, she still couldn't believe that Mitch thought she had slept with Tom, that wasn't what had happened, and no matter how much she and Tom had told him the truth he refused to believe it.

Flushing the toilet, hoping it was enough to convince them that she really had used the restroom, she pretended to tuck her shirt back in as she came out of the bathroom. "Hey boys, I hear Mrs. O' left me food. I bet she left soda's also. You want anything?"

Jessica refused to acknowledge the argument that was so old it had gathered cobwebs, but now with the return of Jessica Scout, it had been cleaned and reopened. She sighed as she left the room, hearing the twin Adonises moving behind her.

Pulling some lunch meat from the fridge and three bottles of Root Beer, she grinned at the contents left behind and then closed the door. She saw Tom grab the bread and Mitch reach back into the fridge for some condiments. Before long, paper plates joined the group of items on the table. 

"What no fine china, Mrs. O'Grady is slacking off," Jessica joked as the three grabbed their plates and headed out to the porch. They ate in silence, comfortable for Tom, and uneasy for Mitch and Jess.

Tom was the first to break the uneasy spell that had been cast over the three diners, "How long are you planning on staying?"

"I don't know, a few days, perhaps a week. It depends," she answered, taking a swig of her Root Beer.

"On what?" Mitch asked, his eyes trying hard not to read anything into her next answer.

She glanced over at him, "It depends on how long it takes for me to sell the stuff inside, and put the house of the market."

Tom choked on his drink, and coughed hard. His eyes watered as Jessica leaned over and pounded him on the back. "Jesus Christ, Tom you okay."

He waved her off, stood up coughing and tried to catch his breath. "He'll be fine, let him choke," Mitch said, a wicked gleam in his eyes.

She stared at the brothers and waited for Tom to breath once more. "Your selling! Shit you just got here," he squeaked out, then swallowed a drink of his soda, to ease the sting in his throat.

"Let her go," Mitch said, "it's her place now."

Jessica felt a little hurt that Mitch was okay with her leaving, perhaps if she had slept with Tom, it would have turned her life out differently, at least he seemed to care for her.

"I've got a place of my own in Atlanta," she stated, "a life there, uprooting myself for a week was a bear for my boss, I can't work here."

"That's right, you're a photographer for some big fancy newspaper up there aren't you."

She could hear the sarcasm dripping from Mitch's lips, but she ignored it. He had the chip on his shoulder not her, though his comments were starting to form a small mound.

"I have nice job, yes and an apartment."

Tom piped up, "But you own this place and we have a town paper."

Mitch rolled his eyes, "I don't think Dry Valley Gazette, is going to pay the same as Atlanta Sun Times. Do you?" "Probably not, but at least she'd be here."

"And that's what's important, isn't it?" Mitch's snide comment bounced over to Tom.

"Well, it sure the hell should be important to you also!" he shouted back.

Mitch stood up and grabbed his trash, "It would have been if you hadn't fucked her!"

Jessica had sat there listening to the two men shouting at each other, talking as if she wasn't there. Finally she stood up and glared at them both, "I'm leaving in a week. I will be out of Dry Valley, so don't bother fighting over something neither one of you ever had or will have." 

She looked at Tom, "Stop pushing him into a fight!" Then over to Mitch she lowered her voice, still loud enough for Tom to hear, but showing the true depth of her pain and raw anger, "I didn't fuck your brother, ok. He helped me after Jonis raped me, now get your tools and get off my property and don't bother coming back!"

Jessica spun around and headed back into the house, doors slammed behind her. She made her way to her bedroom, slammed that door too and crawled onto the bed. Jessica had sworn Tom to secrecy and now it was out. Mitch knew, but would he believe and would it matter?

Mitch stared after the retreating back of the one woman he had loved for years. There had been other girlfriends after Jess, but no one like her. He had tried to push her from his mind, but she was always there hovering, waiting to be let back in.

His stare went back to Tom and he saw the truth in Tom's eyes. "Jonis?"

Tom hung his head and related the tale of what had happened that night so long ago.

"The night before graduation we were all over at Hillsdale." Tom sat down on the porch step, "You remember that right?"

"Yes, of course. We'd all gone up there to drink the night away. Old Henry would let the tap run free that one night every year and only to Seniors. He'd take all our keys away, and put us up for the night in his barn. If I remember right it was you, Jess, Becky and myself." Mitch answered him.

"Well we four had gone together yes, but a whole ton of people were there, including Jonis."

"Your right, but Jonis wasn't a senior he was one of Gary's friends."

"After you headed to the john, Becky and I went out back behind the bar. We were getting all hot and heavy when I heard this noise coming from the front of the bar. I didn't think much of it, it was Jessie's voice and she was saying "no" but not in a way that was worrisome. I honestly thought it was you and she was teasing you."

Mitch stared down at the mirror image of him; it was hard to listen to his brother after all this time. He had walked into the barn and saw Tom hovering over Jess, his pants undone and her skirt up. He still had a hard time getting rid of those images and replacing them with what Tom was saying now, but he tried.

"Anyway, Jess and you, or so I thought it was you, were heading towards the barn. Like I said, she wasn't yelling, just saying "no." God Mitch, when I think about the first time she said it, if I had listened she wouldn't have had to experience it at all." Tom pinched his temples, took a deep breath and continued.

"Beck and I were all over each other, her bra had all ready found itself undone and my hands had all ready made a home for themselves deep inside her. She worked on my pants, and before long, she was doing what she does best and I had my hands buried in her hair, holding her close."

Tom looked up, his face paler then normal, "Then I heard your voice. I thought, what the fuck? Why would you leave Jessie in the barn, because I knew you'd been doing what I was doing with Becky, then I heard you calling Jessie's name. I stopped Betty. Shit, she was pissed and I wasn't happy either. If I hadn't heard you calling for Jess, fuck, I would have been coming in her mouth. But I did stop and well something didn't sit right with me."

He watched as Mitch took a seat beside him, "Well, I wasn't thinking much, I told Becky to get you, and I hightailed it to the barn. By the time I got there it was to late. Jessica was laying in a heap. Her panties had been torn off, her skirt was up and she was shivering like there was a blizzard blowing in. I didn't see Jonis. Hell, I didn't even know it was him, that did it. I thought it may have been, after all he was real cocky the next day at the graduation sitting with Gary and Jessie's mom; Jess, remember she didn't even come." 


Dry Valley Ch. 02



Dry Valley Ch. 02 ~ Bucked-tooth Bailey

"Ringggg.......ringgggg....." Bailey heard the shrill tone of the phone as she struggled through the front door with two brown bags of groceries. Just as she made her way to the shining counter-top of her small kitchen and picked up the phone, one of the bags toppled over spilling its contents to the floor.

"At least it wasn't the eggs," she thought to herself as she said hello. Bailey was awarded with a soft "click" on the other end of the line. Rolling her eyes and letting out a breath of air, Bailey controlled her exasperation and tapped the caller ID button to see who's call she missed.

Bailey had learned at an early age that controlling her emotions was the way to cope in most any situation. How many times had she relied on that philosophy? How often had she wished that people would just forget she was there? How many times had they not? Controlling her emotions meant controlling the situation to some degree, and that control rarely wavered.

Bailey gave herself a mental shake as she saw her aunt and uncle's telephone number pop-up on the caller ID display panel. 

"Hmmm....I wonder what Aunt Wanda wanted?" Bailey asked to herself. Sabrina, her cat, just opened her eyes and peered at her for a second before yawning lazily and settling back to sleep by the fireplace. Bailey dialed the O'Grady's number then bent over to pick up a couple oranges that had rolled across the terra cotta tiled floor of her kitchen when the bag fell to the floor. Aunt Wanda's peaceful voice said hello as Bailey sat the bag and its errant contents on the counter once again. 

Bailey had been raised next door to her Aunt and Uncle in a small town where everyone knew everything about each other. She had spent many afternoons in the attic of their house hiding from the pain of her adolescence. She had become even closer, if possible, to the elderly couple after her parents passed away a year ago when her dad's single-engine plane had gone down in the Rockies. The O'Grady's loving ways and warm guidance had gotten her through the most difficult times of her life. 

"Hi Aunt Wanda, it's Bailey."

"Hi sweetheart. How are you doing?" Wanda asked in her ever-present motherly voice.

"I'm ok. I just got in from the grocery store and missed your call. Is anything wrong?" Bailey asked with a hint of concern in her voice.

Bailey saw her beloved aunt and uncle on a weekly basis when they drove in to have dinner with her on Saturdays. She still worried about them, though as they were getting on in years.

"Oh, everything is just fine, sweetheart. I was just calling to invite you to dinner on Wednesday...say around 6:00?"

Bailey smiled to herself as she agreed to the mid-week dinner. The two women shared a few giggles as stories about Uncle O'Grady and his latest mishaps in his woodshop abounded. Bailey was somewhat pleased to hear that one of her few friends had returned to Dry Valley. She'd try to make a point to give Jess a call while visiting with her aunt and uncle. Jess had been one of the few people in school that had genuinely been friendly with her in their younger years. People were different towards her now, but then again she was a different person.

Gone were the days of "Bucked-tooth Bailey." It was amazing what a growth spurt, contact lenses, and a couple thousand dollars worth of orthodontics could do. While Bailey was completely transformed on the outside, she was still the same unsure girl on the inside. Her lack of confidence coincided with her inner control. The more uncomfortable the situation, the more controlled her emotions became. As her aunt detailed a story involving her husband and his misuse of a nail gun, Bailey's mind drifted to less light-hearted times.

Bailey had always been a quiet child. Things had often not been good in her home, though that was a well-kept secret. She was a loner by nature. An artist, a writer, a dreamer. Her loneliness was compounded by her looks. She had been tall and lanky, all arms and legs. In addition to her lack of curves, she'd had thick glasses and an overbite that had earned her the name of "Bucked-tooth Bailey."

She was quite the different person now. Her silky brown tresses hung in soft curls halfway down her back, stopping just shy of her rounded hips. Long lashes framed the emerald green eyes that had stayed shyly hidden for so long behind thick lenses of glass. Pouty, pink lips covered perfectly straight, sparkling white teeth that showed themselves in the smiles she had readily available for everyone. Her body had filled out in all the right places and it, along with her genuinely caring personality, often earned her appreciative, if not longing, glances from her male counterparts. Most of these wanting looks, however, she was oblivious to as she didn't see the beauty that others did. Her attention snapped back to her telephone conversation as she shared her aunt's laugh. 

"Well, dear, I have to get dinner on the table. Your uncle thinks he's wasting away." Bailey heard the loving smile in her aunt's voice and felt a stab of longing for what she, herself, didn't have. 

"Ok, Aunt Wanda. I'll see you Wednesday, then." Bailey answered.

"Oh, Bailey, could you get here around 5:30? We'll take your car if that's alright." Wanda said.

"My car? I thought we were having dinner at your place."

"Silly me." Wanda answered. "I must have forgotten to mention that we were dining with the Walkers on Wednesday."

Bailey heard the quick "click" of the phone before she had a chance to respond. She probably couldn't have verbalized her feelings on the subject anyway. Her heart was beating in her throat as she realized what her aunt had been up to. She was playing matchmaker again. This time, however, was different. Aunt Wanda was playing with fire and she knew it.

Tom Walker has always been an object of Bailey's affection. Back in high school, she had often imagined what it would be like to be a couple with him. It was a foolish dream, but one she'd often had. Perhaps it had been the kindness he had shown her when the others had laughed and mocked. Maybe it was the compassion he'd shown when he gave her a ride home after a particularly cruel joke the star pitcher of the baseball team had played on her in front of everyone. At any rate, Tom, his twin brother Mitch and his girlfriend Jessica had been the only real friends she'd had and even then, she had distanced herself from them to a degree.

"Get yourself together, Bailey." she mumbled to herself as she finished heating some soup for dinner. "It's just dinner and he's just a man." She tried to reassure herself but it was hard to when she knew the air seemed electrically charged when they were in the room together. Did he feel it, too?

Bailey wondered to herself how he would feel about seeing her again. Would he be shocked? Would he even care? Though she stayed in contact with her aunt and uncle, she rarely went back to Dry Valley. When she did venture back, it was for brief visits with her only surviving family. It must have been three or four years since any of her school mates had seen her; long before the ugly duckling had transformed into a beautiful swan.

"What have you gotten me into, Aunt Wanda?" Bailey mused aloud. Sabrina opened one eye and seemed to give her an all-knowing smirk as Bailey set the soup aside untouched.



Dry Valley Ch. 04



 Six Days 

Mitch sat alone in his truck; the evening with the girl from the bar had ended shortly after Tom and Jessica left. He knew Tom didn't have to work and had left the bowling alley with Jessica because of him. Was that a good thing? Could Tom tell that his brother had a problem with Tom seeing Jessica? And what about her? What was she doing leaning up and whispering into his brother's ear? 

He pushed his fingers through his hair and finally pulled out of the apartment complex's parking lot. He wasn't sure how long he'd been sitting there after the young redhead got out of his truck and tempted him upstairs for more fun. The funny thing was, he'd planned on fucking her when he made the date, but now with Jessica in town again, it just seemed wrong. 

The night was young really and he hadn't any place to be, except his own small ranch, so it wasn't a shock that he ended up at the liqueur store. He bought himself a bottle of Jack and started driving. This time instead of drinking to a memory of the woman he loved fucking his brother, it was to the memory of a lost love that he'd missed out on.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jessica, Tom, and Bailey had enjoyed ice cream together and caught up on old times. Jessica though had immediately seen the reaction that Bailey's "new" look had done to her date. She was happy that Tom had reacted so well to her friend's appearance. She also kicked herself mentally for not keeping in touch with the young woman that had been a constant source of love while she lived in the Valley. Nevertheless when Jessica left Dry Valley she'd left everyone, she'd left everything . . . the event that had transpired with Jonas had been too much for her to share with anyone and she just wanted out of Dry Valley. 

When it became apparent that her company wasn't really needed, she giggled and started to walk away. She wondered if Tom would've noticed had it not been for Bailey asking her where she was going. She grinned and leaned over Bailey's shoulder. "You have a good time with my date. I'm gonna walk home from here."

Tom had insisted she was doing no such thing, until Sheriff Beacon's son walked by. Jessica had latched onto him and grinned up in a charming manner. In the end the young deputy had agreed to walk Jessica home and Tom was left at the table with the beautiful and self-conscious Bailey. 

When Jessica reached her house she thanked her escort and let herself in. "Thanks for walking me home," she said before closing the door and locking it behind her. Her fingers dropped the keys on the stand and she flicked on the small lamp. The glow of her answering machine's light blinked rapidly and she sighed. "In the morning," she told herself out loud and slipped off her shoes before walking toward the kitchen. "For just getting into town you seem to have a lot of male friends taking you out," a voice called out to her. 

Jessica's heart felt as if it had been caught in a vise and she spun around. "What are you doing here?" she demanded. Her pulse raced. She knew his voice and now as she breathed deep from the panic of being with him again she could smell his scent - woodsy and fresh - all Mitch. 

"I'm not sure," he told her. He'd watched her walk up the sidewalk with the Sheriff's son, Deputy Beacon and found himself thrilled that Tom had ditched her or perhaps she'd ditched him. Either way she was with Beacon and everyone knew Beacon had a wife, a sexy one too.

Jessica flicked on the light and watched him flinch from the glare. "Is breaking and entering a new thing for the Walker family?" she asked. She saw the bottle on the table and sighed. "Drunk?" 

"Nope, took a few swings as I was driving," he stopped and held up his hands. "No need to jump down my throat. I said swings, not gulps." 

"Okay, so you're not drunk. So you broke in sober. What for?" she asked again. She stood there in the center of the room staring down at him. Inside her pulse was racing faster and her stomach was rolling in feverish pitches. It was the same effect he'd always had on her, one that she wasn't sure she liked, yet one she wasn't sure she hated either. 

Mitch stood up and closed the distance between them. He'd been consumed with thoughts of her as he drove around. His mind conjured up all the places they could have seen together had she not run off, things they could have done together if she'd not run away and let him believe she'd given in to his twin's charms. 

He'd come here to see if she would give in or not. If Tom brought her home and into the house he'd probably have beaten his brother to a bloody pulp. He loved him, but he loved Jessica more. It was that realization that forced him to break in. The need to see what she did and said to his brother burned into him and so he jimmied the lock on the back door and slipped in. Now he stood there looking down at her and he was lost in the "what could have been." 

There was a moment she knew what he was about to do and she told herself to stop him, but she didn't. His hands grabbed her arms and he pulled her to him. The taste of whiskey was light and she knew he spoke the truth. He'd not drunk much. Jessica angled her head and welcomed his kiss. Their tongues battled and she relaxed against him. It felt so wonderful to taste him again and she wanted more, but something told her she couldn't do this. She pulled away and jerked free of his grip. 

"What do you want?" she asked, stepping back and putting a lot of space between them. 

Mitch chuckled. "Well that's pretty obvious " he said and took a step toward her. "From the way you kissed me, I'd say you want the same thing." Jessica bit her lower lip and sighed. "Mitch. We can't."

"Why?" he asked. "Are you married? Got a man in Atlanta? Engaged . . . What's holding us back?" His eyes gleamed with hunger, desire, and love, but he wasn't about to confess the last until he knew what was going on in her mind. 

"No, I'm not married or seeing anyone. But you are right there is someone in Atlanta, or something . . . my job. I'm not staying in the Valley. I told you that. I'm selling and leaving," she told him. Her arms came up and she crossed them over her chest. "I can't let this happen." 

"What? You kiss me like that and you're still going to leave?" His voice was full of disbelief and a tinge of anger that was slowly growing. "Why? Why not take off where we were before you left? You know we could."

"Could we?" she asked. "How? How do we do that? I'm not the girl in the barn that was fucked by your brother and I'm not the girl in the barn that was raped. This is who I am now. I have a job. Friends. Responsibilities. I can't just leave them . . . and I don't see you moving to the city, do you?"

"No, I have my ranch." 

"Right. So we leave the past where it is and we just let us go."

Mitch's shoulders slumped. "You can do that?" he asked. 

"Of course, I did it six years ago and so did you," she turned away and walked back to her door. She opened it and looked outside. "Where's your truck?" she asked. 

"A block down the road," he told her. "Why?"

"I just realized I didn't notice it when I got here so I was wondering where it was," she answered back. "I think you need to go." 

He walked over to her and placed his hand on the door. "When are you leaving?" he asked her. 

"At the end of the week. Six days. Why?" 

Without warning he slipped his hand around her waist and hauled her against him. His lips captured hers and this time she didn't hold back. She returned his kiss with as much heat and passion as he delivered. Her fingers left the door knob and pushed into his hair and his hands wrapped around her and pressed her tighter.

One of his hands moved down to grasp her ass and he pushed her against the door. His other hand moved up her torso, cupped her breasts and kneaded the firm globe. Her fingers tangled in the locks of satiny curls and she drank from his lips. In time she slid her hands down his shoulders and held him tightly to her. They parted and she was left gasping for breath, her chest heaving up and down as she ran her tongue over her lips, savoring his taste. 

"Why?" he repeated her question in a raspy voice. "So I can show you why I won't let you leave." He kissed her again, before moving her away from the door. Mitch rushed out, before he did what he wanted and took her on the front porch where anyone would be watching . . . though knowing the O'Gradys they probably already were. 

Mitch made it home safely and staggering passion filled steps took Jessica to her bed. Once each one of them was tucked away, they both thought over what had transpired. Each one moved in time with the other, though they didn't know it. 

Jessica's hands and fingers ran trails of heat over her skin until it was shivering with need. Her nails scrapped across her breasts and she pinched her nipples as she thought of the young boy she'd loved and how he'd grown into the man who had pushed her and taken what he wanted, but in a way that was unlike anything she'd known before. His forceful kiss was anything but safe, but it wasn't fearful like Jonas had been. Mitch's kiss was fearful, because it was already weaving a spell across her body, one that in time her fingers and hands helped bring to a giant explosion. 

As Jessica brought herself to climax, Mitch was taking himself there too. His hand gripped his shaft firmly and he pictured the week ahead of him. He had six days to seduce her, six days to make her realize she belonged here with him. As he saw them kissing, stroking, sucking, loving . . . he was able to call out her name as he brought himself to a feverish pitch and covered his stomach in his fluids. 

"Six days," he whispered, in the silence of his bedroom. He wanted them to last forever. 

"Six days," she whispered, in the stillness of her room. She hoped they flew by fast. 



Dry Valley Ch. 05



Mitch reached down, picking up his tee shirt to clean the mess he had just made while fantasizing about Jess. There was something about her that just would never leave his heart. He never was good at letting women know of his true feelings and now he had only six days with which to convince her they could have a life together. Mitch knew it would not be an easy thing to accomplish. He pulled the sheet up over his waist, folded an arm behind his head and tried to drift off to sleep, content for now, with thoughts of Jess, thoughts of Jess in his arms forever.

Mitch awoke barely an hour later, tossing and turning in his bed, unable to get comfortable. He new it was not the night that prevented sleep, there was an erotic cool breeze coming through the half open window. He knew it had to do with Jess, with his angst in knowing how to prove to her that he could be the best thing in her life.

Mitch had been lucky in life. He had a family that loved him, a family that cared about him. He had the looks of a very self confident male, one who knew what he wanted and went after it. What Mitch never learned about in his years was commitment. Loyalty he knew all about, but he was well aware that it would take commitment over loyalty if he wanted to win Jess' heart for good. 

Mitch rolled over in the bed onto his stomach, sliding his legs back and forth, still restless. The sweat from his back having already soaked the sheets wet, he felt uncomfortable. He got up from the bed, pulled his boxers over his hips, grabbed his cigs and a beer from the kitchen and headed out onto the deck. 

Mitch took a sip of the beer and long drag on the cigarette, sitting there thinking. It had finally come to him, what he needed to do if he was to have Jess to himself. He realized being loyal was not enough, there had to be something more. There had to be something more long term. He felt a stirring in him, his thoughts turning to having Jess all to himself. 

It turned Mitch on to think of having Jess all to himself. He felt himself become rock hard as he envisioned Jess, welcoming him home at the end of the day. Her smile, her eyes, her entire body continued to beckon him on. He imagined in his head undressing her, night after night, each night different than the previous. It was not just being with Jess that got Mitch's juices flowing, it was more than that. He needed to know that she would do anything he asked, no matter how outrageous, and she would do it out of love for him. He did not need to control her; rather, he needed to consume her thoughts so much that she would do anything willingly to please him. Mitch knew if there ever was such a woman around it was Jess.

Mitch wondered what he knew about such things. Sure he was good at one night stands. His body and abilities received more compliments that complaints. But, this was different; the ability to woo Jess for a night would get him only so far. How, how could he ever think he had the ability to carry it further, to take it to the next step. 

Mitch's thoughts turned towards Tom, his twin brother. There was no one in the world that Mitch loved anyone more than Tom. They had always been together, always stuck up for one another, always knew what the other was thinking. He thought about Tom and wondered why Tom was different from him; there had been a mere 5 minutes between their births. It was true, they grew up close, in the same family, the same support mechanisms, but it was Tom who really knew how to please a woman, how to keep her in his arms. 

Mitch began to form a plan, wondering if it was anywhere near close to perfection. He had never found the need to form such a plan before. He felt nervous, giddy with anticipation, doubtful that Jess would bite. She had her own life now, far away from Dry Valley, far away from the town where everyone knew what the other felt. He would begin simple, the simple things that might please Jess. 

Mitch got up from his chair, drank the rest of his beer as his feet padded inside into the kitchen. He popped another beer and he began to prepare his first step in winning Jess over. Muffins, apple cinnamon, true, not from scratch but from a box, but the meaning would be there. He glanced at the clock, 4:30; muffins would be ready in time he thought to himself. He brewed a pot of coffee, and poured it into the thermos. 

Mitch loaded the muffins and coffee and headed over to Jess' place. He knew the presentation of muffins on a paper plate, covered with a paper towel was not great, but he hoped Jess would find it cute. He set the thermos of coffee next to the plate of muffins by her front door, knowing she would seek out the newspaper as soon as she woke.

Mitch drove back home to hop in the shower. He whistled while soaping his body, happy with himself for once in his short life. He began to think about the next thing he knew he had to do. Mitch had to speak to Tom, to let Tom know how he really felt about Jess. Mitch owed this to himself, he owed it to Tom, and he owed it to Jess. 



Dry Valley Ch. 06



This story is part of the chain story "Dry Valley", done in collaboration with RedHairedandFriendly, JusHorny, and other writers here on Lit. I hope that my contribution measures up to their standards. 

*

Tom felt a little relief when Jessica left, actually. He was tired of pretending to still be interested in her more than Bailey. Maybe it was time or how much maturing affected both of their personalities, but he realized that Jessica was just not for him. She was for his brother instead. Perhaps he had always suspected that, hence his willingness to back off and let Mitch have her. 

Now, however, he could relax and accept that he wanted Bailey instead. He couldn't quite put his finger on why he wanted her, he just knew that it was a fact. She was apparently more his type than Jessica. He hoped that she would see it that way too. 

When Jessica had first returned, he had been determined to make her his girl. Instead, he now found himself pursuing someone who had been there all along, right under his nose. Life was even weirder than he expected. Why did he have to be so dense as to the obvious? He just wondered what Bailey would feel about his attention toward her. He didn't want her to think that it was a betrayal of Jessica. 

"Well, it seems that my date has had to leave me. Care to go back to my place for a drink? I have something to talk to you about," he finally told her. 

"Which would be?" she abruptly asked him. 

"Something best discussed in private," he replied, deliberately trying to be enigmatic. 

"Now, don't try that with me, Thomas Walker. I know you better than that. Are you trying to ask me out on a date?" she teased him. 

"What if I was?" he rejoined. 

"Then I would have to be fair to you and give you a chance. Hell, this date has practically been our first, hasn't it?" she winked at him. 

"Does that mean that I only have to wait 2 more dates to get more intimate?" he taunted and probed at the same time. 

"Whomever said that you would have to wait that long? I don't necessarily subscribe to the '3 date rule'. I play it by ear. In fact, if I have to wait that long to know if I want to be with a man, I usually drop him instead. If he doesn't get my attention early, he probably never will. If that means that I get no call after sex, I just realize that I was only right about wanting to fuck him, not to date him. That doesn't make me a slut. Most guys don't even get a first date, after all," she stunned him. 

"Is this your clever way of implying that you want to date me?" he probed. 

"Tom, don't waste your breath asking that question. You already know that I want you as much as you want me. Frankly, I don't see why, but I'll definitely exploit it. My new hairstyle is not the only reason, is it?" she answered.

"No, not just your hair. It's your whole new approach. You seem braver, as if encouraged by the new hairdo. So, you only want to date men who want to date you then? That makes sense," he grinned.

"Yeah, I figured that chasing the hopeless is not for me. It's a waste of my time. I'm not into the 'thrill of the chase'. I just want to find a man who'll love me back. Know anyone like that?" she flirted with him more openly. 

He was busy trying to come up with a clever reply, when she planted a very shocking kiss on his mouth. That was followed by his response, another passionate kiss, with his tongue tangling hers. It was a kiss that would have to draw attention to them, so they both agreed with talking to head to his place now. More intimate activities would require privacy. 

When they got to his kitchen, she blurted, "I think that I could use that drink, after all. I'll definitely need the courage. Will you drink with me?"

"Sure. What's your poison?" he replied, anxiously opening the liquor cabinet. 

"Got any tequila?" she requested. 

"Certainly. Here it is, with salt and a nice lime. The last of them, so I'll have some bourbon myself," he smiled, knowing that tequila had a certain reputation of removing female inhibitions, particularly Bailey's. He had forgotten that since high school, but now he recalled it. 

"Sorry to take the last lime. Want to share it?" she apologized seductively. 

"Nah. You use it. I have my sour mash," he spoke, as he poured some Coke to got with it. That was always his favorite chaser for Kentucky straight. 

"Then, how about finishing our drinks and doing what we should have done years ago. I want you to take me. It's overdue, baby," she tantalized him, as she threw back her tequila and followed it immediately with the salt and lime. 

"Wait, you've wanted me for that long?" he reacted to this jolt, as he swallowed the whiskey and felt it burn his throat. 

"Yes, since high school. Too bad you were busy dating Jessie. I don't think that she'll mind now, though. What do you say? Don't think of this as fucking your ex's girlfriend. Think of it as consummating a new relationship. Give it a fair shake. I know that you want me. You know that I want you. So, let's be a couple and see where being one takes us," she proposed. 

"So, if I go to bed with you now, it won't be casual. It will mean that you're my girlfriend. Any other night, and it might have been a fling," he sought to clarify, but images of them together already appeared in his mind. 

"Of course. Even then, I can't promise that I would have seen it as casual. Casual for you, perhaps, but not for me. It's not that I can't fuck without emotional attachment. It's that I can't do that with you. I want you too badly. It would taunt me too much with what I can't have," she said, as she played with the glass impatiently. 

"So be it. We have to try it, for our own peace of mind. We can't let ourselves wonder and regret. So, let's go ahead and do it," he responded at last. 

"I'm glad that you agree," she answered, as she surprised him by kneeling.

Suddenly, before he could take in what she was doing, Tom found his cock in her mouth. She was giving him a very sensual blowjob, with her lips and tongue alternating between licking and sucking his dick. She went back and forth from the base to the head, and then deep-throated him for a while. He struggled very hard to keep from cumming too soon. 

Bailey could sense how close he was to a release, and she certainly didn't wish him to stop. If that meant that he didn't have another load tonight, then so be it. She would satisfy him, he would pleasure her, and then they would take whatever pleasure was available tonight, whether sex or something else. She planned to spend the night anyway. 

"I think that I'm about to cum," he told her. 

She didn't stop sucking and licking his manhood. She simply winked at him. It was evident that she wanted to swallow his load. So be it, he thought. He assumed that she was aware of the chances that he might not have another one that night. He could still eat her pussy, even if he didn't get stiff again. 

When his cock jerked a bit and released his seed into her mouth, he felt her lick the rest of it from the head before she let it go. When he pulled out, she gestured that they should move on to his couch. She wanted him to eat her there. 

Tom promptly removed her skirt and panties, after which he began to lick her sweet sex. His tongue did to her what she had done to him, with the addition of some teeth as he nibbled on her. He felt her shiver as he sucked on her clit and labia. She had goosebumps all over her body from the impact of his attention. 

When his tongue went further, to her asshole, she felt a little chill again. None of her few previous beaus had ever shown any interest in her butt, at least not in terms of licking it. Rimming was not something that most of these small-town boys knew of; in fact, she had barely heard of it herself. It had not really sounded too appealing, either. However, the reality of it was much different than the theory. She had no concept that this area of her body was erogenous, and she thought that she knew all of her zones. Obviously, she had missed one. 

His mouth then went back and forth, his tongue making circles between her clit and her anus. He even stuck it inside both of her holes. When the second penetration happened, she couldn't prevent gushing. She was very stunned when he drank her juices like he had no trouble with her wetness (something that no boyfriend had done for her in the past). She thanked him with another kiss. She didn't care about germs. She had the feeling that they would be sharing them soon anyway. 

When he entered her sex, she made no attempts to stop him at all. Instead of worrying that it was on the sofa and not the bed, she was glad that he was hard at all. They couldn't help themselves from fucking at last. It had taken too long as it was to restrain themselves further. 

"Oh, damn!" she repeatedly spoke, as he rammed her more vigorously than he or she originally planned. Both of them had once thought that if they did it with each other, it would be gentle love-making. Instead, this was a wild encounter that rivaled some of their most casual flings, despite their growing infatuation with each other. 

Tom didn't speak at all until he was done, and he didn't dare to stop. He feared that he might lose his erection at this point if he did, as he had 2 shots of bourbon in his system. She wasn't complaining about the speed of their first sex, either. On the contrary, she welcomed it as a relief from their mutual frustration. It would seem that he had picked the right girl at last. They had more in common than Jessica and he did. 

After he came, however, he said, "Honey, that was just wonderful. If I had known that you were that great in the sack, I'd have done it a long time ago."

"It's not like I hadn't dropped hints. You were just too focused on Jessie to catch on to them. It doesn't matter. I wasn't this good when I was younger, and neither were you. We both needed to sow our wild oats and get better first. What do you think of being lovers?" she replied with a grin. She was clearly not disappointed, but then neither was he. 

"I think that we already are lovers, dear. If I recall correctly, that was agreed to be a consequence of us fucking," he answered, smiling himself. 

"Great comeback, Tom. If you don't mind, I would like to go to sleep with you now. Lovers do that, you know: share a bed, cuddle, wake up next to each other," she suggested. 

"Naturally," he said, a little flushed as he realized that she would probably hear his snoring and smell his morning breath. Oh, well, perhaps she snored and had morning breath, too. 

I just hope to God that I don't have a hangover. That would be an awful way to spend my first full day with my new girlfriend. Damn, Bailey is my girlfriend now! I woke up this morning a completely unattached bachelor and am going to fall asleep a boyfriend, Tom thought, as Bailey and he closed their eyes and yielded to the Sandman.



Dry Valley Ch. 07



Breakfast for Two

Jessica picked at the crumbs sitting on the plate that had once held blueberry muffins. She'd gotten up and went out to grab the morning paper and spotted the muffins. How could she not? They had been sitting on her front porch. Now she was content to waste the day away, but she couldn't. She'd ditched Tom last night and Bailey. She owed them both an apology; Mitch, she decided she would deal with later. She picked up the phone and dialed the O'Grady's and got Bailey's Aunt. 

"Is Bailey up yet?" Jessica asked into the phone. 

"Up? I don't know. She didn't come home. I was hoping she spent the night with you," the little voice came over the phone, 

Jessica's eyes grew wide and she spit out the milk she'd been drinking. "She didn't come home?" 

"No . . . where'd you last see her?" her Aunt asked. 

"I left her at the ice cream shop with Tom Walker," Jessica said. Her mind raced in all different directions. 

"Oh well there you go then. She probably had one of them sleep overs you young'uns used to have when you were little," Misses O'Grady chuckled into the phone. "You call over to Tom's and see if she's there and if she is you give me a holler back. I don't mind her having a sleep over, but I'd like to know she's safe."

Jessica was trying hard not to laugh and succeeded until she hung up the phone, then she lost control. Thoughts of the type of sleep over Tom and Bailey had and comparing them to the "spin-the-bottle" sleep overs the group had enjoyed as kids sent her into a fit of giggles and then snorts. 

That was how Mitch found her, doubled over, snorting and laughing. 

"The muffins that bad?" he asked. 

Jessica jumped and spun around. She hadn't bothered dressing; her robe had barely been tied. "Jesus Christ! Don't you ever knock?" she asked. 

Mitch swallowed and tried not to react to the skin that was generously displayed for him. The red robe's sides hung loose, the sash doing little good in keeping the short article of silk closed. He smirked and then said. "If I'd knocked then it wouldn't have been a surprise." 

"Duh . . . that's the point," she sighed and picked up her paper plate. 

He watched her walk around the kitchen, still making no move to hide the little nighty that was under the robe. Why she even bothered wearing the tiny thing to bed, was beyond him. The ensemble was obviously meant to tempt a Saint and Mitch was glad he wasn't one, because if he was he'd lose his Sainthood. The neglige had a low v-cut down the center of her breast and strings of what he would describe as red dental floss crisscrossed up the cut. The hem fell a few inches past her hips and he would have bet his ranch that if she bent over he'd find either matching red panties or no panties at all. He was rewarded with that answer when she bent down to pick up the paper napkin that had fallen off the plate of muffins he'd brought a few hours earlier. 

"Jess . . . you need to go get dressed, before I forget why I swore to be a gentleman." 

Jessica paused and remembered the tiny pair of thongs and the matching lingerie she was wearing under the robe. She blushed and smiled, but bit back the words of "why be a gentleman" and instead said, "Why are you even here?" 

He watched her turn around and he growled. "Jessica Scout, get your ass up to your bedroom and change before I forget myself." 

His eyes meant business and Jessica felt a humming sensation run through her body. She smirked. "Mitch Walker, fuck you. This is my house and you weren't invited and I thi . . . " 

Her words were swollen by the curse he tossed back at her. She was shocked by the look in his eyes and she trembled in a mixture of fear and desire. Jessica had no time to say anything to stop him, within a heartbeat he'd closed the distance between them, picked her up, and tossed her over his shoulders. 

"OH! Oh my God! Mitch, you ass! Let me go!" she screamed and banged on his back. Her skin was on fire, a fire that was slowly spreading throughout her whole body. "Damn you," she cursed. She felt his hands on her thighs as he held her to him. His other hand slapped her body and she jerked. "You . . . you! You just hit me!" 

"No shit; now settle down so I don't drop you. You're not as light as you were six years ago." He laughed when he received a hard slap from her hand on his back. 

"Hey now," he growled out. He carried her up the stairs, slowly so he could enjoy the scent of her and the touch of her skin against his. His cock ached to plunge in deep. Everything about her surrounded him and he wanted to taste every inch of her. 

"Some gentleman you are," she hissed, but stopped struggling. She focused instead on watching his ass as he walked. He'd changed too, that was sure. He was stronger and firmer. He was a man now, not a young boy becoming a man. She had tried not to think of him last night, but she had. She went to bed naked and then gotten up, tossed on her nighty and robe. Why? Was it because she hoped he'd come over and catch her looking seductive? She didn't know, what she did know was it felt wonderful to be in his arms, even if she did resemble a sack of potatoes. 

Mitch made to her room and was glad the door was open. He walked in and spotted her bed. It wasn't long before he was tossing her on the bed. This he decided was his worst mistake. She fell back on the soft blankets. Her legs open, her hair a tangled mess, and her robe no longer a hindrance to his vision. The wrestling she'd done on his shoulder as she tried to fight him had caused the sash to untie and now it lay open. Her chest heaved up and down as she lay there, staring up at him. 

"Tell me to leave Jess," he whispered as he started to remove his shirt. 

She heard his words as her eyes followed his fingers. Her tongue came out and she licked her lip, then gnawed nervously on the bottom one. "I'm not staying, Mitch."

"Tell me to leave Jess," he repeated his demand. His shirt hit the floor. His fingers went to his boots. 

Her eyes flashed with lust as she sat up and freed his belt buckle and her hands went to work on his jeans. "I'm not staying," she whispered, placing a kiss against his stomach. 

He tossed one boot to the left and shivered when her mouth touched his flesh. "Fuck Jessie . . . " he growled. 

He pulled off the remaining boot and pitched it somewhere behind him. Socks soon were following and when he looked at her again, her robe was off and her fingers were moving to the hem of her nighty. "No way, it stays for now," he told her. 

Mitch moved over her. His jeans were tight, his cock aching. He held her gaze until his lips pressed against hers and then he closed his eyes and let himself just feel the woman beneath him.

Jessica whimpered from the loving touch he'd given her. She thought it was going to be fast and quick, but as soon as he touched her mouth, she knew it wasn't going to be hurried. Both of them had waited far to long for hurried. Her hands moved down his bronzed back; her nails left individual trails of heat as she worked her way to his waist, once there she pulled him tighter against her and ground her pelvis into his thick member. 

He growled against her lips and pulled her lower one with his teeth. His callused hand moved down her torso and then up again. The silk caught a few times, but neither cared. His hand cupped her breast and he began kneading it with firm pressure. "Jessie," he moaned against her mouth. 

She lay there under him, telling herself not to run her hands down his jean-covered ass and not to bring them to the front and wedge her fingers between them, but she ignored herself. She whispered his name, when his lips left hers to travel along her jaw and down her neck. He nipped at her flesh and she turned her head allowing him more skin to taste. 

He made his way across her collarbone and pulled on the flimsy string that lay over her shoulder. Slowly he licked his way down it, until he reached the start of the v-cut that had driven him crazy in the kitchen. He nuzzled his face between the round breasts, enjoying the scent of her cleavage. His teeth pulled on the bow and he smirked as she begged for him to hurry. He chuckled as he loosened the tie and licked his way over to the round curve of her right breast. His hand came up and he pulled the material to the side exposing her nipple.

"Beautiful, baby," he muttered before capturing it with his mouth. 

"Oh God," she moaned. Her fingers worked harder at releasing his pants and he laughed against her tit. 

He lifted himself just enough to pull her hands from his cock. "Not yet Jess," he muttered. 

He forced her hands from their prize and he went back to devouring her right breast. He licked from the hard nub to the top and then back down again, stealing a moment to bite and tease the pink gem. He opened his mouth and sucked firmly on the beautiful pearl, while his other hand massaged the left tit with hard strokes. The material was soon pulled away from that globe and his thumb and fingers were rolling the precious bead into a hard peak, one his mouth was soon enjoying. Back and forth he alternated his attention until her fingers were in his hair and she was pressing him further south.

"Mitch . . . oh God, baby. I'm so wet. Please . . . oh fuck. Taste me. Mitch . . . " she moaned over and over. 

His name had never been anything but a name, but to hear her call it during the heat of passion, it seemed almost musical. He slid down to his knees and placed her legs on his shoulders. The scent of her arousal filled his nostrils and he felt the pain in his jeans grow more demanding. He cursed at the ache, but refused to give in. His mouth sucked on a freckle he found himself staring at. 

"Mmm . . . " she muttered and lifted her hips. "MITCH!" she demanded and ran one hand down to her wet panties. Her hand slipped in and she started to fuck her clit with two fingers.

Mitch watched, his mouth watering for more of her wanton behavior. He suckled his way up to her pussy. The panties were stained with juice. He watched while she rubbed and pulled on her clit. Moving his hands he pushed his fingers against the muscles of her ass and squeezed the soft, yet firm flesh. 

She whimpered while she stroked herself for him. Her fingers slid further and she knew he was watching her hand move inside her panties. 

"Show me, baby. Show me Jessica how wet you are. Show me how much you need me to fuck you," he demanded. 

His hot breath could be felt on her cunt and she moved her hands to rip at the tiny strings that held her skimpy panties together. "Fuck me, Mitch!" she screamed and lifted her hips up. Her arms bent and she supported herself on her elbows adding another inch or more to her hip's height. 

Mitch didn't need further encouragement. He opened his mouth and covered the sweet pussy that he'd only dreamed of ever having. His tongue snaked out and slashed its way back and forth over her juice-covered cunt. He pressed deeper and his nose rubbed her clit. 

"Yes! Oh God! Yes!" she screamed and bucked against him. 

He drank the fluids she's spilled for him. Licked, sucked and bit his way through her pussy, until she was riding his face. He added two fingers into the mix and rammed them into her over and over again. 

"Harder!" she demanded. 

Harder he gave. Faster he drove her. He abandoned her for a second and looked up at her. She was the most beautiful creature he'd ever seen and she was his. His mouth went back to her pussy and his tongue met his fingers. Soon digits and hard, wet muscle were working together to bring her to the edge of a cliff. 

Jessica's nails dug into her flesh as she twisted and pulled her tits. Her nipples were red from her ministrations, but she still didn't stop. Harder he fucked her and harder she twisted the tips of her breasts. "Ohhh . . . Ohhh . . . Oh fuck, Mitch!" she cried out. Suddenly she paused and for a moment she didn't breathe. 

He looked up and saw her face set in torrid mixture of emotions. "My God," he moaned, before he opened his mouth and was drinking up her come. She flooded him and he was there to welcome it all in. His mouth swallowed quickly, as she erupted again. She flowed hot and thick for him. He needed more. He pushed his fingers in and coaxed another wave of heat from her. 

"Ohhh . . . Mitch." She moaned and shuddered as she tried to breathe normally again. Her eyes were clenched tight and she was almost afraid to open them. She was scared that if she did the dream would disappear. 

Mitch ran his tongue up and down her slit, washing away her honey. "Jessica, I need you baby." 

"Yes, Mitch." 

She sat up and suddenly froze. 

"What?" he asked. His hands moved to his jeans and he began tugging at the waist. 

"No, stop. Listen." 

He stilled and did as she asked. "Fuck!" 

"Jessica!" the old, sweet voice called through the house. "Jessica! Are you upstairs honey?" Misses O'Grady's voice echoed through the house. The creaks of the steps could be heard. 

"No fucking way," Mitch cursed. 

"The bathroom. Go, now!" Jessica muttered. 

"The bathroom? We're not teenagers!" 

Jessica looked at him with a glare. "The bathroom or you will have to take care of that yourself!" she demanded. 

He growled and pulled her to him. He kissed her fast, released her and headed to the bathroom. He shut the door and waited. 

"Just a minute Misses O'," Jessica called out. She grabbed Mitch's shirt and pulled it on, buttoned the shirts haphazardly and then opened her bedroom door, just as Wanda was about to open it. 

"Hi!" Jessica smiled wide and leaned against the frame of the door. 

"Oh there you are," the old woman smiled. 

"Yep, here I am," she answered back. 

"Did you get a hold of Bailey?" Wanda asked. 

"Bailey?" Jessica thought for a minute, "Oh . . . Bailey. No, not yet. I'm going to do that right now." 

"Oh would you dear, that would be so kind of you." 

"Anytime. Misses O'." 

Wanda smiled and was about to leave, when she stopped and looked at Jessica. "Pardon me dear, I hate to be a pest, but could I . . .?" Wanda motioned to Jessica's bedroom door. 

"Umm . . . sure," Jessica said with a look of confusion on her face." 

"Thank you. This will only take a minute." She poked her head in and yelled. "Mitch when you get finished up will you come over and help Henry?"

Jessica paled when she heard, "Sure Misses O'. I'll be over in a couple of hours." She blushed when she heard Misses O'Grady's answer back, "I'll see you in five minutes young man."

Wanda winked and turned around. Jessica would have staked a year's wages she was humming "Here Comes the Bride" as she descended the stairs.



Dry Valley Ch. 08



The Morning After

There was something . . . no someone in bed with her. Bailey let one leg stretch slowly out and her toes touched the warm flesh of another. She chewed on her bottom lip, wondering exactly what had happened last night. Had she drunk too much? Perhaps she mixed her allergy medication with a shot of tequila and lime? No, she didn't have a hangover, what she did have though was another person in her bed. Then it hit her. She wasn't in her bed. Her eyes grew wide in their sockets and she took a deep breath. "Oh fuck," she said to herself. "Tom," she whispered under her breath and for a moment allowed herself to be lost in the memory of the woman she'd become in his arms. 

She'd attacked him, practically threw herself at him like some horny teenager or some experienced piece of ass. Something she wasn't, but last night as she welcomed his sex into her mouth and later her pussy, she wasn't complaining . . . she wasn't complaining now either, just wanting to step back and see what was going to happen from here on out. After all, she wasn't a one night stand floozy, even though last night she fucked like one. She blushed and tried to ease herself from his side. Unfortunately, for her, Thomas Walker had been raised on a ranch and a rancher never slept deep. They woke with the quiet sounds of nature surrounding them during round up, so it shouldn't have surprised the young woman that his hand snaked out and grabbed her hip when she tried to leave the bed. 

"Where ya runnin' off to?" he asked. His voice was thick with sleep, but also with desire. He'd woken up the second she turned on the bed. His cock was already hard and he rolled over to spoon her backside. Tom pulled her back and ran his hand over her hip. "You weren't leaving my bed were you?" He nuzzled the back of her neck and slipped his hand over her stomach. His fingers grazed the top of her sex before he slid a finger inside. 

"Mmm . . . ," she moaned and pressed back against his cock. Bailey bit her lip and placed her hand against his. "Not anymore," she whispered. 

He chuckled and began to push his finger in deeper, then he felt her slide her long slim digit in with his. "You're wet Bailey," he growled against her skin. His teeth nipped her shoulder and she felt her sex quiver with desire. 

"You're hard, Tommy," she moaned and lifted her leg. She hooked his with her foot and pulled her finger from her sex. Her hand wrapped around his hand and she pulled it free of her. "Fuck me with your cock Tom," she groaned.

Tom chuckled and guided his dick into her succulent pussy. She was wet and hot for him and he used every once of her honey to accept his swollen manhood. Right now, she had no desire to think of what she was doing or how she'd become the wanton woman she was last night. It didn't matter, what did matter was she was here and she was with him, the man she'd wanted since she was a young girl. 

Her pussy clenched his sex and she felt one of his hands scoop itself under her torso to wrap around and grab her breast. She welcomed his touch and felt his other hand move to fuck her clit with hard tugs and teasing strokes. She begged for more and was given the sensation of his teeth pulling on her neck. Her fingers tightened into fists and then she pressed one against the hand that was massaging her tit, the other she pushed into his thick hair and kept him anchored to her neck. "Yes, Tom " she screamed as he fucked her. "Harder . . . Oh God, yes " she cried out as he plunged into her slick opening. 

Tom pounded her. The head of his cock rolled free of her pussy lips, only to find their welcoming home with another impalement. One pierce after another devoured her cunt and he felt his balls tighten. "Bailey... Bailey, I'm gonna come, sweetheart," he muttered before he shot his load into her womb. 

Bailey felt the heat of his seeds coat her fleshy surface and she shuddered as her climax tore through her. Her head fell back against his shoulder and she squeezed his shaft tight with the muscles of her sex. "Tommie " she shouted as the fluids rolled from her and covered him. Her fingers tightened their hold and her joints grew stiff as she tried to latch onto the feeling of falling. "Tom...oh my God," she hissed as she felt the rivers of liquid flow free. 

They lay there together for several minutes. A light sheen of sweat ran between them and they both held each other until they could breathe more easily. Bailey opened her passion-filled orbs and rolled over to face her lover. His cock slipped free from her warm home and she pressed him to the bed. "You are a bad man and made me do many naughty things," she said against his lips. 

Tom laughed and ran his fingers up her spine. "Girl, you have no idea how many naughty things I have planned for you." He lifted his hand and swatted her ass. 

She jumped and slugged him in the gut. "That stung," she growled. She leaned up to kiss his lips with the sound of the phone bellowed in her ear. "Oh...saved by the bell," she said and then winked. 

"Fuck the bell," he told her and rolled her to her back. 

Bailey laughed, but insisted he answer the phone. He rolled his eyes, but did as she demanded and picked up the receiver. "This best be good, I'm about to bury myself in the folds of a sexy woman and..." His words were halted by the voice on the other end. 

"Ummm. Yea, here she is," he said sheepishly and handed the phone to Bailey. 

She gave him a look of confusion, but accepted the device and giggled when Jessica's voice came on the line. 

"So, how was the ice cream?" Jessica asked.

"Ice Cream?" Bailey asked. "Oh, the date, well as you can see, or ummm hear, it went well." She felt the heat of her blush run over her skin. 

Tom listened to the two women talk and as they did, he began a one man conversation on the woman beneath him. His lips trailed over the tops of her breasts and then his tongue skated across the pink of her areola, first the right, and then the left. He dragged his teeth across the hard nubs and then pushed them together. The tips were forcefully rubbed back and forth as he flicked his tongue over them. 

Bailey's gasp brought a question from Jessica. 

"Bailey, he is not fucking you while you are on the phone with me...is he?"

"Mmm...no," she moaned softly and closed her eyes. "But then again, Jessica... I'm hanging up on you," she muttered and hit the button, dropped the phone and wrapped her legs around his waist. 

Tom drove into her and fucked her again with long, hard strokes until both of them were coming once more. Eventually, Tom allowed her to leave his bed, but it was only to follow her to the shower. They left that room once the hot water had been used up and the cold water that rushed over them was too much. 

Later Bailey sat in his truck and he was taking her back to the Ice Cream parlor to collect her car. Once they had that, she headed to Jessica's and told Tom she'd meet him for drinks. She also reminded him he was expected at his mother's for some big dinner her aunt was planning with his mom. 

Bailey walked into Jessica's house and was greeted with a smirk and a hug. "It's about time," Jessica said to her friend. "Where's 'The Man'?" she asked, looking over Bailey's shoulder. 

Bailey blushed. "He's heading out to his parent's ranch. You're okay with this, aren't you?" she asked. 

"Okay, with what, you and Tom? Hell yes " she cried and hugged her friend again. "You should have been in his bed years ago," she told her. 

"Just like you and Mitch?" Bailey countered. 

Jessica blushed. "Yea," she whispered. "But," she shrugged her shoulders, "it doesn't always work out for us like we want it too." 

Bailey pulled her back in for another friendly hug and led her to the kitchen. "Let's have some cocoa and you can tell me what you have been up too." 

*****

Mitch lay under Henry O'Grady's truck and finished up the oil change. He slid out and wiped his hands on his jeans. He looked around and picked up the few tools he'd needed and tossed them into the old man's tool box. "There you go, Mister O."

"Thanks Mitch," the old man said. He sat back on an old chair and smoked his pipe. 

"Misses O, said you gave that up," Mitch said, pulling a bucket out to sit on. 

Henry winked. "Yea, I gave it up. Gave up smokin' it around her," he winked. 

Mitch laughed and heard the sound of the woman across the street receiving company. He looked down the drive and saw Bailey walking in. It had taken him a moment to recognize the long-legged beauty, but recognize her he did. "I see your niece is home." 

Henry turned and looked back toward Jessica's place. "Yea, she came in sometime last night, went out for ice cream and then home with young Tom. I heard all that from the deputy, but didn't tell the Misses...seemed I needed a reason to send her over to Jessie's this morning," he said as he turned back to Mitch. A look of stern concentration met the look of unashamed seriousness. "What are you plans this time?" Henry asked, puffing on his pipe. 

"I've got six days to convince her she doesn't belong anywhere else but in the Valley." 

"Six days huh?" 

"Yep." 

"Gonna do it?" 

"Yep." 

"Good," Henry said and then stood. He emptied his pipe and tucked it behind a carton of nails. "You're a good lad. I don't know why she left like she did, but she does belong here. So does Bailey, but that's another story." 

Mitch laughed, but agreed. He'd seen Bailey and something told him that she wasn't the shy, diminutive creature from way back, but was perhaps a bit of both. He said his goodbyes and headed back to Jessica's. He didn't pop in to say "hi" or "goodbye"; there was no need. She knew they had unfinished business, it was just a matter of when he came to collect. 

*****

Tom drove his truck out to his parents' ranch and headed to the barn to help out his father with a few repairs. His thoughts were full of Bailey and he found himself in awe over the last twenty-four hours. He'd been fawning over his brother's old girlfriend, forcing himself to be a part of her life and then suddenly there was Bailey. A girl he'd grown up with and tormented, teased and protected from cruel folks that they all went to school with. Now he'd left her arms and was aching for them again. 

"Hey son," a voice called out to him and pulled his thoughts back to the present. 

"Dad," Tom waved up to the loft and started the easy climb up to him. 

"You looked lost in thought." 

"Yea, I guess I was." 

Jacob Walker studied his son and sighed. "You went and fell in love with her didn't you?" he asked. He pulled out his knife and picked up an old piece of wood. Soon he was whittling away and waiting for the confirmation to fall from his son's mouth. 

"I think I did," Tom smiled. "But hey, wasn't like I had much of a chance. She's a beauty. She's changed a lot, Dad." 

"I'm sure she has. She'll be over for dinner this week. What are you going to do about Mitch?" Jacob asked. 

"Mitch, what the hell, you mean he's got her too?" Tom stared in confusion. He was sure that Bailey wasn't in love with Mitch, but hell he'd never really asked, then again, he didn't ask much after she took his cock in her mouth. 

Jacob looked at his son. "Thomas, you know he's been in love with that woman all his life and he'll be..." Laughter filled the room and stopped his words. "What?" he asked his son. 

"I'm not in love with Jessica. Sure she's a beauty and she'll make Mitch a fine wife if he wises up and marries her and she wises up and keeps her pretty ass in the Valley. No, I was talking about Bailey."

"Bailey? She's back too?" Jacob asked. 

"Yes, she is. Just showed up last night."

"I bet your momma had something to do with that. I should have known that woman was up to something when she went had me slaughter one of our prized birds so she could have some fancy meal on Wednesday. Meddling female," he muttered and flicked his knife closed. 

Thomas laughed. "Its fine by me Dad...I don't know if I'd have stopped pursuing my brother's girl if she hadn't."

"Yea? Women are like that. They know what's good for us even if we don't want to admit it."

The two men worked side by side as the day moved on, both lost in thoughts that circled around the women in their lives.



Dry Valley Ch. 09



Chapter 09 ~ Bailey's Plan

"I'm leaving, Jess."

"What do you mean you're leaving?" Jessie asked Bailey as the two women walked along the sidewalk.

"I mean I'm leaving. There's nothing here for me."

"What about Tom? I'm sure he'd say differently." 

At the mention of her handsome lover's name, Bailey's cheeks pinkened with erotic memories of the past few days.

"Tom is just a fantasy. There's no way he'd settle for someone like me." Bailey answered wistfully.

"That's your problem, Bailey. You think you're something to be "settled" for. You never could see that you were so much more." Jessie lectured her friend as the two women glanced inside the windows of the local shops. 

"It doesn't matter now," Bailey answered. "After the way I've acted the past few days, he's bound to think awful things about me." In spite of her worries, Bailey couldn't help but giggle with the memories of the passionate love-making and animalistic sex that had been shared between her and Tom. No matter his thoughts about her now, it had all been worth it.

The Walker boys had been every girl's fantasy in high school and very little had changed in the years since. Bailey had always had that soft spot for Tom, though. And since she'd made up her mind to take a new job in New York, she had also vowed to just take what she wanted for once in her life. Now the problem was that she had fallen in love with Tom. If she was totally honest with herself, she would have to admit that she'd always loved him on some level. And that love just seemed to get deeper and deeper, which was a problem for her as he would never love her with the same intensity.

Bailey was brought out of her bittersweet musings by Jessie's voice. "So where are you going, then?"

Bailey thought before she answered. She had a plan in motion and she didn't like her plans to change. Therefore, she had to be careful who knew and who didn't.

"You can't say a word, Jess. I mean it. Not to my Aunt. Not to anyone." Bailey looked solemnly at her sister-like friend.

Jess sensed the seriousness in her friend's words. "I promise, Bailey. You're really serious aren't you?"

"Yes., I am. I've thought long and hard about this for a couple months now. I've been offered a job in New York. I'm going to take it. It will give me a reason to leave without hurting Aunt Wanda. I'll still visit a couple times a year and if she needs me, I'll only be a phone call away." Bailey answered, though she sounded like she was trying to convince herself.

"A phone call and a couple thousand miles," Jessie answered with a frown on her face.

"Jess, you just don't understand. You left Dry Valley and everyone behind. Things were never good for me here. I have a chance to start over now. I have a new body, a new outlook, and now I have a place where no one knows me or my past. I have nothing worth staying here for.."

Jess thought long and hard about her friend's words. "You have Tom." Feeling that this wouldn't be enough to convince her headstrong friend, Jessie added, "and you have me."

Bailey gave her friend a sad smile. "I don't have Tom, Jess. I have a couple nights of sex with him. Granted, it was hot, mind-blowing, never forget, sex.....but that's it. At least in his eyes. And I don't even have you. You left years ago, Jess. And you're leaving again."

It was almost instinctive for Jess to deny that she was leaving. The power of this feeling stunned the beauty as she began to ponder what that meant. Did she really want to leave? Of course she did, Jess told herself. Bailey was right. She had a life elsewhere.

"Well, sweetie, I hope its really what you want. And if it is, then know that you have my support and best wishes. And you better invite me out there sometime," Jess said and both girls giggled as they neared the coffee shop.

"It's not what I want," Bailey said with a wink, "but I'll just have to take what I can get. Now...let me buy you a cup of coffee and let you in on my plan." Bailey winked again at Jess and hooked arms with her as the two girls entered the coffee shop.

Since her first night with Tom, Bailey had become more certain of what she needed to do. There was no way Tom would fall for her and there was no way she could be near him anymore and not tell him how she truly felt. It had become her intention to love him while she could, then get out of town. Tomorrow evening was Aunt Wanda's dinner and Bailey had a redeye flight out of town tomorrow night.

She would, of course, tell her aunt and uncle what was going on....but not until she arrived in New York. They would only talk her out of it if they knew. She had always lived in the small country town and was, by her own admission, a country girl. But Dry Valley had gotten to small for her and even to move to the next, bigger town hadn't been far enough. If she didn't find happiness after the move to New York, she would know she was just destined to be Buck-Toothed Bailey, no matter how far or how fast she ran. But before she left, she had one last night of memories planned with Tom....and the poor boy wouldn't know what hit him.

Tom made the last step onto his porch with a dusty thud. He had worked hard laying a new fence line that had been destroyed when a tree had blown onto it in the last storm. He saw the white slip of paper on his screen door and cursed to himself.

"Damn salesmen," he muttered as he jerked the note from the door. Giving it a cursory glance, he was surprised to see the feminine handwriting on the slip of paper. At the same time, he noticed the scent of it....her scent. A small smile split his lips as he read the delicately penned words.

Your presence is requested in the kitchen. 

Tom wondered what wonderful sights would behold him once he got to the kitchen. He was both grateful and disappointed when he simply saw dinner on the table. While he was famished from the long, hard day's work, he had also hope to see Bailey wrapped in an apron and nothing else. As he hate the mouth-watering steak, baked potato, salad and homemade rolls, he noticed another note that had been placed in the breadbasket. 

Your presence is requested in the shower.

Tom's heart lodged in his throat and his cock jumped at the thought of what may lay ahead for him. He kicked off his dusty cowboy boots under the kitchen table without bothering to finish the last roll in the basket and took the steps two and a time up the stairs and into the bathroom. His shirt fell to the floor halfway up the steps and he lost his pants at the top before skidding to a halt at the bathroom door.

Steam escaped into the hallway as Tom opened the bathroom door with a wide grin. Instead of being met with a sexy, sudsy brunette, he was met with a steamy, hot running shower. The steam from the hot water had allowed him to see the message written on the mirror above the sink.

Get clean. Get to bed. ASAP!

Now Tom KNEW he would finally be rewarded with his most desired treat. As he quickly jumped in the shower, he thought back about his time with Bailey. There had always been something about her that he liked. Even when she was "Buck Tooth Bailey", he had always adored her. She had never seemed interested in him, though and in those days, he had girls falling all over him. He'd just convinced himself that he might as well have someone even if it really wasn't who he wanted.

The last two days had changed his mind. It wasn't just Bailey's looks that had changed his mind, though he wasn't complaining for a single second about that, but it was the fact that she was still just as beautiful on the inside as she had been all those years ago. Many women, and men for that matter, that had gone through the transformation that she had would have lost themselves in the process. Bailey seemed to have grown more sure that who she'd always been was who she was supposed to be.

She was still the girl that would drop whatever she was doing to help her aunt, uncle, and anyone else that needed a hand. She was still that girl that volunteered at the hospital to help with the elderly patients, even if it just meant spending her Saturday afternoon listening to old war stories. She was still the girl that kept him off balance. She was still the girl that he wanted more than he wanted his next breath. 

Tom turned off the water and dried off, feeling much better now that his stomach was full and he was clean. He felt like a new man, however, when he thought of what awaited him in the next room. Still naked, he opened the bedroom door and felt as if the air had been knocked out of him.

Tom could focus on nothing except Bailey, lying across the bed, her body propped up by her elbow with her cleavage all but pouring out of the black leather corset that seemed to be painted on her body. 

With a little grin and butterflies in her stomach, Bailey blew a kiss at Tom, gave him a wink, and then a come hither motion with her finger. Tom didn't need to be told twice and crossed the room in two strides to get to the bed. 

No words were necessary as Tom slid into bed with Bailey. She sighed contentedly as his lips met hers in a slow, loving kiss. The heat of their bodies was already emanating from them as Bailey slid on top of Tom and deepened the kiss. 

"God, you're beautiful," Tom murmured as the kiss ended and Bailey sat up straddling Tom's body. 

Bailey, still unused to such attentive words from a sexy man, blushed shyly. Tom started to reach for her to pull her down for another kiss but Bailey stopped his movement by sliding her fingers through his.

"Tonight is all about you, Tom. Will you let me give you a night to remember?" Bailey asked almost breathlessly.

Tom couldn't speak. Every moment with Bailey was a moment to remember. He simply smiled and knowing that he had just granted her wish, Bailey smiled and pressed her body onto his for another deep kiss. As their tongues and lips danced and separated, Bailey moved Tom's hands to the bedposts. He felt the silk on the flesh of his wrist and his cock jumped. Tom didn't know what Bailey had planned, but he liked it already.

Bailey slipped the silk scarves around Tom's wrists and tied them each one by one. His moan of delight broke the silence in the room as he felt her lips and tongue slide along his jaw and down his neck. Her right hand slid down his body to his hardening cock and stroked it gently as her teeth lightly scraped across each nipple. 

Tom groaned aloud at Bailey's touch. His cock was growing harder by the minute with the sensations she was giving his body and with the thoughts of what she had in store for him tonight. It crossed his mind that something seemed different tonight, perhaps more intense if that were possible, but the rational thinking simply fled his mind with Bailey's next move. 

Straddling his hips, Bailey slowly released the tied threads of the black corset. The movement of her arms behind her back caused the form-fitting top to stretch impossibly tighter on her voluptuous breasts. As the fabric released, granting her freedom, she couldn't help the moan that escaped from her lips as she slid her hands up her ribs then massaged each globe causing her nipples to turn rock hard. 

Tom could help his groan either as he watched the erotic site. Bailey then slipped between his legs, leaned back and removed her panties. She was now completely naked and kneeling between Tom's legs. He just knew what was to come next. He waited for and longed for the touch of her lips on his cock. Instead, he got the shock of the unexpected.

Bailey had known what Tom was waiting for, but she wasn't quite ready for that yet. She was serious when she said it was going to be a night to remember. With an impish grin on her face, Bailey simply winked at Tom and turned so that her perfect ass was pressing against his cock. At Tom's hiss of released air, the grin turned into a full fledged smile as she wiggled against him then moved away to slip his ankles into the silk bonds that she had placed on the footboard earlier.

Tom thought he would explode on the spot as Bailey turned around from the foot of the bed, leaned over, and slid her tongue over the tip of his cock slowly and seductively. His hips bucked off the bed but his restraints held him in place. It was only at that moment that he realized he could truly be in trouble from this sexy lady before him. 

"Don't go anywhere," Bailey softly spoke as she giggled and left the room. Tom could hear her in descend the steps and rattle around in the kitchen before returning a few minutes later carrying a silver tray. The time away from her had not lessened his desire for her at all. He watched in complete awe and curiosity as she set the tray on the bedside table.

The tray contained a variety of items, all of which sent Tom's mind reeling in untold fantasies. There was a bowl of strawberries with a side helping of whipped cream, a glass of ice, a feather, and some other intriguing odds and ends. Tom could see that it was going to be a long, pleasurable night.

Bailey slipped a piece of ice from the glass and straddled Tom's waist. He was completely entranced by the site of her sliding the ice over her full, luscious lips before ever so slowly sliding it down her own neck. The trail of delight was completed when she rolled the quickly melting ice over her left nipple, causing it to pucker immediately. Tom was then rewarded with a view of her own tongue sliding out to lick the moisture from her nipple. Her moan of pleasure and the little shiver that raced through her body only heightened his senses more. He watched as she repeated the motions with her right nipple, only this time she leaned forward so that Tom's tongue could taste the sweetly aroused bud.

Just as Tom was longing to taste more of her, Bailey pulled back. Her constant teasing was arousing him beyond all belief. He was rock hard and ready to explode. It would just take one touch from her to send him over the edge. He wanted that instant relief but also wanted this feeling to last forever. His wish for relief was almost granted, however as he watched her pick a strawberry from the bowl and slip off his lap to sit between his legs. She was facing him with her legs spread. Those legs seemed to go on forever. He watched with fascination and a hint of jealousy as she slowly slid the strawberry towards her smoothly shaved pussy. He struggled at his restraints once again, wishing fervently that he could touch her, as she slid the strawberry along her slick, wet folds until the strawberry was slick with her juices. 

Tom closed his eyes in rapture as the tip of the strawberry was slowly drawn across his lips. He could taste her very essence on the sweet piece of fruit as he bit off half of it with one bite. He'd never had such a sweet tasting strawberry before and he knew without a doubt that it had little to do with the quality of the fruit. 

Bailey slipped her finger into the whipped cream and slowly slid it into Tom's mouth. He licked her finger hungrily as her body covered his completely. Their bodies touched inch for inch, her hard nipples pressing into his chest and his rock hard manhood pressing between her thighs. 

Their mouths met in a lingering kiss, sharing the taste of the sweet treat of a few moments before. Bailey moved lower on Tom's body. She shook the sad thought from her mind that this would be the last time she ever did this. Her tongue slid out to taste the tip of Tom's cock, feeling it jerk beneath her lips. She eased her tongue over the head, sliding it between her lips as her fingers cupped his balls. Inch by inch she swallowed him, encouraged and unbelievably aroused by the masculine gasps and groans that reverberated throughout the room.

Bailey increased her speed as Tom started to thrust into her mouth. He was held captive by the restraints, but couldn't help writhing on the bed to try to touch more of her body. Faster and faster, Bailey fucked his cock with her mouth, growing more and more wet by the second. This was moving faster than Bailey intended, as she wanted her last night with Tom to last, but she couldn't help herself now. Not only had she seduced Tom completely, she had driven herself to the point of no return.

Bailey slid off the bed and untied Tom's feet, releasing them from the silk folds of fabric. She licked and nibbled her way back up his body, stopping briefly to lick his cock from base to tip before positioning herself over his cock. Taking the massive tool in her hand, she slid the head through her slick folds. 

"Mmmmm.....ride me, baby. Take me inside your hot pussy now." Tom gasped. He wanted so much to touch her with his hands. The thought was perished as he felt his cock slicing through the tight, wetness that was the essence of Bailey. 

"Oh fuck, Bailey." Tom gasped. He fought to hold still. She was so tight that he could almost cum just from the squeezing of her pussy around his cock. He loved the sensation and wanted to enjoy it as long as possible. 

Bailey placed her hands on Tom's chest as she started to slowly rock her hips back and forth on Tom's rock hard cock. She loved to have him inside her. She couldn't tell where he ended and she began as she started riding him slowly. His cock easing in and out of her slowly, going deeper with each descent of her body. She tried to control her movements, but as usual when Tom was near her, she lost all rational though and control. 

Her body started pounding harder on his. His cock drove harder and deeper inside her as she pistoned faster and faster on him. Their moans and gasps filled the air as their lovemaking reached a fever pitch. Tom fought his restraints now, wanting and needing to have control over her. As their passion grew to a fever pitch, Bailey struggled to release Tom from his bonds. He immediately turned Bailey so that she was on all fours and kneeling on the bed in front of him. Without wasting time, he slammed his cock back inside her sopping pussy.

His hands on her hips allowed him to pound harder and faster, taking her deeper and deeper. Bailey met each thrust with her own thrusting body. She'd never felt this way before. She was on fire and about to go over the edge. If she died at this moment it would all be worth it.

"Fuck me, Tom.....fuck me harder." Bailey screamed. 

Tom was spurred on by Bailey's words as he felt his cock starting to twitch. His hand made contact on the perfect flesh of her ass, leaving a pink hand print on the unmarred skin. 

"Oh god, yesssss......I'm going to cum," Bailey barely managed to gasp as she felt the sting of the slap. 

Tom slammed harder into Bailey. His building yell announced that he was close. He pulled her body to him in a single, strong thrust.....then another......and yet another. On the fourth powerful thrust, his body and soul let loose with its passion. Each shot of his hot seed seemed to scorch Bailey's inner walls, filling her up as her juices coated his cock. Wave after wave overtook them as they came together. Bailey's pussy clenched and unclenched around Tom's cock, milking every drop from him as he continued to thrust inside her slowly and sporadically. 

The couple collapsed on the bed, Tom on top of Bailey. They stayed that way for what seemed an eternity, trying to catch their breath and not saying a word. Tom could still feel Bailey's relaxing pussy twitching around his cock as he finally raised himself enough off her to place light kisses on her shoulder and neck.

"God, you're amazing, Bailey," Tom whispered in her ear before sliding off her and taking her in his arms.

"I'm just trying to keep up with you," Bailey softly answered as she sighed contentedly and allowed herself to relax completely in his strong, capable arms.

Bailey was hit with a sudden sense of sadness and lonliness as she remembered what tonight meant. It was quickly pushed to the back recesses of her mind, however, when she felt Tom's fingers slip between her wet folds and his mouth close over her nipple. This was her last night, but it wasn't over yet. She had all intentions of enjoying every second of it. There would be time for sadness later.




Dry Valley Ch. 09



Tom awoke the next morning totally satisfied and even more in love than he thought he could be. He was in awe of Bailey. He had become so accustomed to having thoughts of her running through his mind at any given moment of the day, that if he didn't think of her, he felt like a large part of his soul was missing. Just the thought of her voice, her scent, her laughter brought an unshakable smile to his face. 

Even when she was gone, she was taking care of him. Tom had found a note on his pillow this morning when he had awakened.

I'm off to help Aunt Wanda with dinner preparation for this evening. Breakfast is in the microwave. Thank you, love, for the time of my life. ~B

Tom opened the microwave to find a stack of homemade blueberry pancakes and sausage awaiting him. After eating the hearty breakfast, Tom hopped in the truck and drove out to the edge of town. There he found what he'd been looking for....a field of daisies. He picked a handful of daisies and headed toward Wanda O'Grady's house. 

Tom parked his truck behind the garage where he had often parked when he was younger. When someone had done something particularly hurtful to Bailey, he'd oftentimes sneak into her bedroom window and just talk with her to cheer her up. This time, he was hoping to express how he felt without words....those would come later. He knew she would understand the significance of the daisies. He had always thought it was sweet when she said she'd rather have a few hand-picked daisies that came from the heart than to have dozens of roses that were an afterthought. He hoped that with this surprise awaiting her after dinner this evening, he would be able to express what he hadn't been able to say.

Tom was turning to the window to leave when his own name caught his eye. He stepped up to the desk holding Bailey's laptop and sat down at the chair, knowing that what he was doing was wrong, but not able to tear his eyes from the screen.

Dear Tom, Let me start by apologizing. There are no words that can describe how I feel right now. I feel like a coward, yet I feel stronger than I ever have.....and its all due to you. The last week has been amazing. But that should come as no surprise to anyone as in my eyes, you've always been amazing. I wish I could've been more for you.....more of what you deserved. 

I'm too much of a coward to tell anyone in person that I'm leaving. By the time you get this, I'll be in New York. It's the best for me. I can't lie about it anymore.....to myself or anyone else. There's nothing left for me here. After the way I've thrown myself at you the last few days, I shutter to think of what you must truly think I am. You know deep down that girl isn't me, but its who she wanted to be with you. I gave in and selfishly granted myself one last fantasy come true with you. And I don't regret a single moment of it. 

I can't remember a time, even back in high school, when I didn't love you. Its funny to me that its never been easy for me to open up and love anyone, but with you, it was the easiest thing in the world. I guess I just wanted you to know that I'll never forget you or how you changed my life.....beyond those few days we spent together. Be happy, Tom. That's my wish for you. Love, Bailey

Tom sat in stunned silence not believing what he'd just read. After all they'd shared together? After he finally admitted to himself that he loved her? She was leaving? Just like that, she was leaving? 

"The hell you are," Tom muttered angrily as he slammed the laptop shut and stormed out of the bedroom.



Dry Valley Ch. 10



Chapter 10: Dark Obsession

The battered black pickup with the deeply tinted windows nosed in between two parked cars, where the driver could watch Jessica unseen. She didn't notice the truck as she exited her rented Taurus and went into the downtown market. The driver watched, however, fascinated by the movement of her hips as she walked. He imagined them free of the little white shorts they were encased in, those firm globes revealed to him as he bent her over. He could imagine stabbing his cock into their apex, and hearing her squeal. How sweet that moment would be!

Once Jess had entered the store, he leaned back into the seat and closed his eyes, now remembering the girl from yesterday morning. What a sexy little thing she'd been, and how gullible and trusting, too! He was hard, remembering, and he dropped his hand onto the massive cylinder of flesh that lay along one thigh, absentmindedly stroking the hardness that threatened to split the denim of his jeans. She'd noticed that lump, too; that little thing, almost as soon as she settled into the truck seat. She'd made no pretense of ignoring it. He smiled, thinking back to that first meeting with her.

"Hey, where you headed?" he'd asked her, as he pulled up in front of the bus stop bench. She was pretty, a couple of years younger than him, he supposed, and married, judging from the ring on her finger. "You want a ride, or do you want to sit on that old bench half the day?"

She'd smiled, at first not committing herself, but soon considered how nice it would be to ride in his air-conditioned truck, compared to that crowded old city bus. Plus, he wasn't bad-looking, she reasoned. She came over to the truck window and spoke to him when he asked where she was headed.

"Um...to work, I guess," she said, kind of shyly. She wore a dark blue Wal-Mart smock, and looked every bit the innocent little thing. He wasn't fooled, though. He could see the look in her eyes...that kind of far-off look that signaled to him that she might be unhappy with her life, and might welcome a new 'adventure.' His eyes met hers, and he smiled. He could certainly give her an adventure!

"Hop in," he said, leaning across and opening the door for her. "We'll work on getting you where you need to go."

She slid onto the seat, her eyes glancing at him as she did. When she noticed the bar of flesh laid out along his leg and stretching the material of his jeans, she couldn't look away. Her tongue touched her upper lip unconsciously, and the term "trouser snake" came immediately to her mind. He was big...bigger than her husband on his best night! 

Jonis Owens was a sexual animal. Always had been, even back in high school. Lean and muscular, with a laborer's body, he seemed to have more in common with a wolf than a human. He was somehow feral-looking, and moved with a surprising grace. This had a peculiar effect on women, attracting them until they learned his motives. 

He had always been abnormally large, and was almost always hard. He kept his mind stimulated with images of 'his' women, whether he ever actually knew them or not, and he masturbated many times each day. It was as natural as breathing, to him. This kept him constantly on a sexual edge, and got him into trouble, more often than not. It had once led to him hastily leaving Dry Valley, when that little Scout bitch decided at the last minute that she didn't want to put out. "Well, she did, despite what she said!" he thought. "That moment will soon be repeating itself!" 

He thought of the girl again. She was cute, in a trailer-trash sort of way. Short brunette hair, nice tits under that Wal-Mart smock, and tight black slacks that hinted of muscular legs and a sweet, plump pussy. He doubted she'd had many lovers, though. Probably married the first guy that got into her pants, and considered herself happy, at least for the first year or so. Now, she might be eager for something else. These small-town girls were all horny! The tattoos covering each of his arms seemed to fascinate her, and she asked about them.

"Hell, they're just mementos," he said, and flexed his muscles as he showed them off. 

Jonis chatted up the girl, and within two miles had her convinced that she didn't want to go into work today. Her eyes kept drifting to his erection, and he didn't fail to notice this fact. When he suggested that she forget work and go party with him, she smiled seductively and said, "You don't think I'd get into trouble, do you?"

He looked pointedly at the slab along his thigh and back at her. "Think you can handle this sort of trouble?" he asked, and smiled. She laughed, nervously, then licked her lips.

"I could sure try," she said, smiling back at him.

He pulled into a thicket off the small highway and shut off the motor. Within five minutes, she was bobbing her head aggressively over his lap, her hands clutching at the denim as she yanked at his jeans. She couldn't wait to have him inside her! He raised his hips and allowed her to peel his pants and underwear down onto the tops of his work boots, watching her pretty face all the while.

"That's it. Keep sucking, baby," he urged. She did, even while her hands went to the snap of her own slacks. She climbed onto her knees on the seat as she pushed down at the waistband, and her ass came into view. Nice and white, it was, the pink outline of her panties just creasing the cheeks. Jonis pushed her head down onto his cock with his left hand, while his right snaked between her legs.

Her moan was strangled as his finger entered her, her throat full of his throbbing meat. She spread her legs, though, and arched her back as his finger thrust up into her sloppy center, again and again. The sounds of her wetness filled the air, and he breathed deeply as her musk permeated the cab of the truck. It hardened him even more. He loved this: raw, gutteral sex, with no need for romance. 

He studied her face as she sucked him. It was taut, her mouth opened widely, her lips stretched around the thickness of his meat. Her eyes were vacant and unfocused, her only thoughts now involving having him inside her. He flexed his cock muscles, and watched the effect it had on her throat. Her neck arched, and she gagged a little. 

He loved to watch his dick being sucked. Lacing his fingers behind his head, he thrust himself up to her, and listened to her slurping sounds. Her tongue was busy, swiping up and down his shaft as she sucked, and after awhile he found himself wondering what her pussy felt like. God, he wanted to fuck her!

He yanked her shoulder upward, slinging her against the seatback, and turned to her. His hands tore at the slacks bunched around the tops of her knees, dragging them down over her ankles and off over one shoe. He pushed her legs apart. Her eyes watched him warily now, hoping that he liked what he saw. Her pussy ached for his cock. When he licked his lips, she leaned back across the seat and put one foot on the dashboard.

"Fuck me?" she asked, as he pulled her other knee upward, wedging himself between her outspread legs.

"Hell, yeah," Jonis muttered, positioning himself on his knees. He could see her wetness; smell her desire. It drove him crazy with lust. When he entered her, it was swiftly...just what she wanted, he figured. His cock split the tender flesh as it barreled into her, his girth tearing a surprised cry from her throat. He grunted loudly, his approval of her tightness. Then it was off to the races.

There was no tenderness. Jonis always fucked as if someone were after him. Perhaps they were. Grasping her shoulders for balance, his hips slammed into the girl's pelvis brutally, each thrust rocking her head against the passenger's side door. Her face was a mask of barely-concealed pain, her hands grasping futilely at the seat cushions as he fucked her. She tried not to cry out. I made a big mistake, she thought suddenly, as he assaulted her body.

It hurt, but it was over soon. With a stiffening of his legs and a mighty bellow, Jonis thrust himself as far up into her as he could, and climaxed. He smiled as he felt the satisfied feeling of filling her narrow canal with his first copious load, and he held himself up on his knuckles, suspended over her as he pumped another, and yet another, scalding stream of semen deep inside her. Each contraction of his balls was accompanied by a groan of pleasure. Unable to look at him, the girl squinted her eyes tightly shut, praying she couldn't get pregnant this week.

When he pulled from her, it was abrupt. She felt his discharge draining from her gaping cunt, and sighed. "Oh, god," she breathed, and he laughed. 

"Yeah! Haven't been fucked like that in awhile, huh?" he said, backing out of the truck and bending to pull his pants and underwear up. As he fastened the snap and zipped up, he surveyed her. She gingerly pulled her ankle off the dashboard, and lowered her foot to the floorboard. Grinning, he pulled her panties off one ankle and pocketed them. 

"Souvenir, okay?"

He made her dress while he drove, dropping her off at the same bus stop bench where he'd picked her up. Watching her climb shakily out of the truck, he felt himself getting hard again, but he didn't have time to bang this one again. With a vague promise to look for her sometime later, he drove off...back toward the Scout girl's house. He hoped he hadn't missed anything. Mitch's truck in front of the house only angered him.

* * *

Now that he had Jess away from her house and friends, he was getting anxious for her to return to her car. He couldn't figure out how she could be buying much, anyway. God knows, those Walker boys seemed to be taking care of her grocery needs, and it looked like Mitch was attending to ALL her needs, now!

It was only by happenstance that Jonis had run across Jessica again. She and her reporter had pulled into the garage in Henry County where he worked with car trouble, three weeks ago. Jonis had been there almost two years, and had never known that Jessica Scout was a reporter for the paper up in Atlanta. Hell, they were almost neighbors! She'd not seen him, and he hid out around the back while they waited for Pappy to repair her car, watching her. She looked good, and the old feelings of lust he'd had for her had resurfaced. He decided that day to finish what he'd begun, so many years ago. This time, he'd take all the time in the world, and let her get used to what a real man felt like!

He got her address in Atlanta from the repair receipt, and began his surveillance that evening. By the second week, he'd quit the garage and begun to stalk her in earnest, learning her work schedule, her favorite eating places, and what time she showered. That was his favorite time.

Jonis had watched from the stairwell in the next apartment, his eyes trying to penetrate the obscure glass of her window. He could see her general shape, especially when she raised her arms to shampoo her hair, and imagined those pink-capped breasts in his hands as she hung by her hands from the shower rod. He masturbated wildly, leaving his discharge on the wall of the stairwell when he left.

Then, this week, she'd packed up the car and kept driving. He knew she was headed to Dry Valley before they hit the Georgia state line. "Good," he thought. "It'll be fun to take her in her own house!" He followed at a safe distance, once even passing her on the highway. She hadn't recognized him. He stroked himself, watching her in the rear-view mirror. When they got into Texas, he turned off and got a motel room in an adjoining town. He knew where to find her, and he'd followed her every day since.

Today looked like it could be the day, until suddenly his plans dissolved. "That damn Mrs. O'Grady," Jonis sneered, as she walked out of the store with Jessica. Together, the two women got into the Taurus, and Jessica pulled out into traffic. Frustrated, Jonis straightened up in his seat and made his hand leave his throbbing boner. He started the engine and followed, but he somehow felt that today wouldn't be the day.

"No matter," he said aloud. "I've got all the time in the world." He suddenly turned the truck left, in the direction of Wal-Mart.



Dry Valley Ch. 12



This is part of the chain story "Dry Valley", with RedHairedandFriendly, Wyldbreeze, Jushorny, Gotwood49, and myself. If I left anyone out, I apologize. This is meant to pick up from Chapter 9, written by Wyldbreeze, regarding the affair between Tom and Bailey.

*

Tom Walker knew that he wasn't going to just wait for Bailey to walk away from him. He'd found love at last, with an old classmate, of all people! This was not someone that he would let go. It was different from what had happened with Jessica. She wasn't very compatible with him. Bailey, however, was his type. At heart, he was just a "good ol' boy", but he knew that he was the best man here. In fact, there was no other man really pushing for it. It was just Bailey's fear keeping her from staying. 

He could tell what it was: she still doubted that she could keep any man's love, so she had decided to leave before anyone got hurt. The trouble was, of course, that if she left now, both of them would get hurt. She would regret it, more time would be wasted that they could spend together, and somebody's pride (either his or hers) could prevent them from getting back together when they should do so. Couldn't she see that she was about to do to him what she feared would be done to her, and that it would hurt him just as much as she feared that his leaving would hurt her? 

So much for Dad's theory that women know what's best for us, he thought. Sometimes, they don't even know what's best for themselves. Well, I am not going to let her ruin this for either of us. I'm giving it my damnedest, even if I fail, so I can look myself in the eye and say that I tried at least. 

"The hell she is going to walk away from me!" he ranted again to himself. 

He typed in his own bit on the laptop, right under her unfinished letter, so that she could clearly see what he wrote. 

What do you think that I feel about you? Do you think that I am some prick with a double standard that says that a girl is bad for me if she "throws herself" at me? Do you actually think that I only want or would marry a certain type of girl that I can "respect"? Give me more credit than that! I think that I deserve it after we have known each other for so long. Well, I do respect you, no less for your willingness to be yourself at last and go after what you want. The only way that I could lose any respect for you is if you take the path that tempts you now, the path of escape from your desires and your passion. 

I don't know how well I am writing, since I've never been the most intellectual type of man. I am not a great poet, or a great writer, for that matter. I am just plain Tom Walker, of Dry Valley, the man who loves you so much that the very idea of you leaving makes me very upset. You said that you didn't want games, that you didn't want to chase someone who didn't want you. Well, I want you, and I don't want to play any games, either. If you take offense to my reading what you were about to send me anyway, then I regret that. I just couldn't read this and not reply to it. 

Well, my dear Bailey, I am going to speak my mind and then be done with it. Up to the point that you actually leave Dry Valley, I'll do my best to persuade you to stay with me. You have a clear choice now, between fear and love. If you leave, you'll be knowingly choosing the former. Do you really want that, my love? 

So, there it is. You can leave Dry Valley and try to forget me, with the emphasis being on the word "try", as I doubt that what we have can be so easily forgotten at night. Your other option is to stay here, let me love you, fuck me, perhaps give me a turn at tying you up, have all kinds of other fun and happiness together, and spend the rest of your life with me. 

You said that we'd a couple if we mated that night. Well, we did mate that night, and quite a bit since then. I had the hope and dream that we really were a couple. That was your stipulation. You said that you could divorce love from sex with some men, but not with me. In that case, you evidently love me and need me, even if you protest now that it's not a good idea for some reason. We both know that it's just an excuse. Do me and yourself the favor of telling the truth. You're afraid of what might happen later. There is nothing to fear. I can predict the future that I will do my best to give us: a long, happy marriage, perhaps a few kids, and maybe even some grandkids.

I've always respected you enough to tell you the truth, and you have always returned the favor. We have always called each other on our various bullshit, haven't we? Well, this sounds like it to me. You fear that you won't be good enough for me. Well, I have news for you: I have the same fears about being good enough for you. The difference is that I refuse to let that self-doubt stop me for a moment. I want you, need you, love you, and am selfish enough to try to have you anyway. What can I say? At the end of the day, I am a man, and I prefer the direct approach. The fact is that I can't let you leave without fighting to keep you here. 

I'm sorry if this is not the stereotypical sappy stuff from some romantic novel or comedy. That's not me, and you know it. I am a plain country boy from a small town. I am Tom Walker, and I love you, Bailey. I am grown up and a little better at words than I used to be, but I am still the same guy deep inside. I speak my mind and say what I feel, as I have always done. If you were waiting for me to open up and be "vulnerable", as they call it, this is that moment. I won't cry, since I wasn't brought up to do that. However, if you leave, I will be wounded in a way that I won't forget anytime soon, and I can't promise that I'll ever forgive you. I owe you that much honesty, babe. I am being as real as I can be with you. I can also promise you that you will never forgive yourself if you go now. I know that much in my gut. 

Don't go, Bailey. Marry me. 

Sincerely,

Tom Walker

Tom got up and walked to the closest bar, deciding to drink off his anxiety about her possible response. Even if she said no and left now, he had at last told her what he really felt. Not being the wordy type, he was surprised at how much he had written. Well, he wasn't the sort to open up to just anyone, but Bailey wasn't some drinking buddy or one-night stand. She was the woman that he loved, and if he couldn't summon up his heart enough to tell her how he felt about the very sickening idea of her leaving for good, then he wasn't much of a man, was he? 

He would just have to get this terrifying worry off his mind for a bit, and having some good hard stuff sounded like the best way to do that. A little bourbon should go very far in that respect, with plenty of beer to chase it down. That way, at least, if she turned him down, he'd be too drunk to hurt from the rejection until the morning. With any luck, the hangover should distract him from the pain of his broken heart. 

He didn't know if that was actually true, but he felt like finding out, if he had to do so. 



Dry Valley Ch. 13



Leaping from the Cliff

It wasn't a long ride out to the rock cliff that Jessica had found inviting. She had remembered the day the photo was taken. They had gone there to enjoy a picnic, a bit of frolicking and eventually the plan had been to make love, but someone had other plans. She giggled, remembering how terrible Bailey felt for showing up at the "wrong" time. She'd come up to spend sometime alone, depressed over her lack of landing a date for the upcoming dance. In the end though Tom had volunteered, granted he'd done it with a lot of bravado and pretended it was a big bother for him, but Tom sure wasn't having problems with Bucktooth Bailey now, was he. 

Her giggle brought a rise from Mitch's brow. "What's so funny?" he asked. 

"I was just remembering the last time we were up there." 

"I don't remember anything funny about that day," he sighed. "Bailey came at the wrong time." 

"Aww. You poor baby," she said and leaned up just enough to kiss his neck. "Did you know she's back in town? I can call her up ask her to relieve the memory with us." She pretended to go for her cell phone and Mitch grabbed her arm. 

"I don't think so," he told her, tucking her hand on his lap. "Mister O' told me she was back. She'll be over at our place Wednesday night for supper. You're coming too, as is Tom and the O's." 

Jessica laughed and left her palm where he had placed it. "That'll be fun. I haven't had a chance to see your mom and dad yet." 

"Well, if you'd let me have my way, you could see them every day." 

She sighed and moved away from him. "I told you I'm not staying here. All that stuff you said at the house was sweet. I don't expect you to do all that for me. I'm not your wife."

"No, you're not my wife," he answered back, pulling up the rocky path that led to the top of the cliff. One word was left off his sentence . . . yet. He wasn't about to pop the question in the cab of a pick up truck. There was a place and a time for everything and he be damned if Jessica was going to rush him. She'd made him wait years. She could wait a few minutes. 

She blew out a puff of air, making her lips wiggle as she did. Jessica said nothing else. He'd not taken the bait and the fact that she was even hoping he would was enough to tell her she was being silly. Just because he wanted her to stay didn't mean he wanted her to STAY. Besides, she told herself, it was better for her to get him out of her system and then go home. After all, she had a great job, her own place and a bit of savings that kept her looking like a million bucks. 

When he killed the engine on the truck, she opened the door. He cursed to himself, disappointed that the strong headed female hadn't let him open the door for her. He shrugged his shoulders, refusing to let her know it irked him. Walking around the front of the truck he took her hand and slipped his other into the bed of the truck. 

Jessica watched him pull a picnic basket and a blanket out and she chuckled. "Courtesy of your mom or did you fix whatever poison is in there?" 

He let go of her hand and swatted her ass. "You ate my muffins didn't you?" 

She jumped, rubbed the tender spot and giggled. "Yes. Were those homemade?"

"I made them at home." 

Her laughter filled the air and she took the blanket. "Come on Betty Crocker, let's have supper. Though it's a bit early." 

They walked together up the remaining few feet that kept the view of his ranch hidden. When they reached the top a small gasp of shock escaped her lips and she scanned the land below her. "Wow," she whispered. "It's beautiful. I mean, it's always been beautiful, but... I guess I've forgotten. Who bought it?" 

"I did." He made the proclamation quietly, not letting his pride show through, though inside he was grinning. He knew she'd love it. How could she not? She was Dry Valley. Weren't they all? He set the basket down and took the blanket from her hands. He spread it out on a patch of land that was relatively clean of rocks. 

By the time he was done he noticed she hadn't moved from her spot on the cliff. He walked up behind her hand wrapped his arms around her waist. He rested his chin on her shoulder and proceeded to tell her all about his dream. "I plan on starting up my own ranch full of the finest horse flesh available to man. The house is small, but that's all I need right now. Mom and Dad are keeping my stud and when I can I'll move him over here." 

He turned her body and his, pointing out where he planned on pasturing the mares and then he showed her where he imagined a great stable as well as other odds and ends that would eventually fill only a small section of the land he purchased. 

"It's amazing." 

The colors of the land were brilliantly displayed on a canvas of blue and white. Clouds were fluffy and floating in the sky and a soft breeze ran over the untamed wilderness. Mitch took a deep breath. His fingers pressed against her hips and he turned her toward him. "I bought it a long time ago, or so it seems like I did. Everything seems to drag around here." 

"Oh? You don't like the Valley? I find that hard to believe." 

"Everyday has dragged since the day you left." He saw her teeth come up and saw her face pale slightly. He heard her intake of breath and he witnessed the tears that threatened to spill from her beautiful eyes. His finger came up and ran over her cheek, down her jaw and then across her lips. "Jessica, I know you're leaving in six days. You've been adamant about that and I'll not stop you." 

His hand moved from her lips to her neck and he pushed his fingers through her hair. His other hand slid behind her back. "I bought this place with the idea of bringing one woman to it and making her my wife, but I didn't know how I was going to do it. I just felt I had to. Jessica, I'll beg. I'll plead. I'll sell everything I have right now if you ask me to, but I need to know one thing." 

She watched him swallow and she felt her lips start to shake. She wanted to tell him no. She wanted to give all the excuses known to man, but she couldn't. She was frozen as she watched him slip his hand into his pocket and slid down her body. "Oh God," she whimpered. 

He took her fingers in his hand, held them and kissed each one. "Jessica Scott, I love you and want you to be my wife. I want you to take pictures of this ranch. I want you to take pictures of Dry Valley. I want you to take pictures of our kids. I want you more than anything and I'll give it all up just ask me too. Will you marry me?" He produced the black velvet lined box and opened it for her. 

Jessica felt like she was in the middle of a romance novel. The sun was setting. The weather was perfect. The man at her feet, she'd loved since she was a little girl. Everything was perfect and the little girl in her wanted it to remain that way forever. The woman in her wanted it too, and for the first time in a long time she allowed herself to let go of the past and pray for a future that was unknown. "I love you." 

She fell to her knees and took his hand. Her fingers wrapped around his and she squeezed them tight. "Mitch, I know I'm stubborn and pigheaded and a bit of a brat, but I love you. I've always loved you. I came back here hoping to sell the place and get out of Dodge. But you were there. Mitch you weren't supposed to be there." Her tears fell and she knew her face was growing red and her nose was getting runny. She didn't care. 

He watched her fall apart and he loved every second of it. His heart was pounding in his chest and fifty years from now he'd tell her she'd never looked so beautiful, but for now he only listened and waited. 

"I'll marry you. I'll live in on your ranch, take your pictures and have your babies." Her lips found his or his found hers, neither really knows. All they did grasp were each other. His tongue pushed and played as hers darted in and out. Her fingers left his hand and she wrapped her arms around his neck. His ran around her back and hauled her to him. They fell back onto the blanket and rolled until he was on top of her. His hand was wedged underneath her and he jerked it out. 

"For diamonds being a girl's best friend, you sure don't seem to care much," he told her. He straddled her hips and sat up. The bulge in his jeans ached to find relief, but he swore she'd have the ring on her finger first. He took the jeweled band out and lifted her left hand. "I love you Jessica Scott and I swear to you that no matter what happens in the future and no matter what happened in the past. . .I will be there to protect you, love you, shelter you, and care for you. You are mine and I am yours." He slid the ring on her finger and then kissed her wrist. 

She swallowed the lump in her throat and whispered back, "I just want you." 

He closed his eyes and leaned over her. His lips pressed against hers and his tongue merged with the one that had kept him in a drugged state since the first day he'd kissed her at the local fair kissing booth eons ago. Every emotion was in that kiss. It went from slow and teasing to fast and thirsty, then back again. Fingers moved over skin that was quickly exposed to the dying sun. Pulses raced as hands traveled over flesh that seemed to burn and sear the souls of those that were diving into the unknown. 

"Jess, oh God Jess. I've wanted you for so long." 

Her eyes feasted on him as he rose over her and removed what little clothing he hadn't shed. While he did she untangled herself from the ones he'd pushed up so he could drink in her beauty. When he came back to her, there were no barriers separating them. Flesh met flesh and lips met lips. 

"Mitch, I love you so much," she whispered against his shoulder as his mouth captured her ear and tugged gently.

He could feel the heat of her sex blanketing his cock and he desperately wanted to drive into her. There was so many things he wanted to do, knowing he had a lifetime to do them, only added to his frustration. "Jessie, I can't take my time. I'm too weak." 

His admission brought a smile to her face. Running her fingers down his spine, she let her nails trail a path of sin over him until they rested on his ass cheeks. "Don't wait," she growled back at him and lifted her hips as she pushed him down toward her slick sex. 

He groaned and moved his hand between them. His hips rose up and he grabbed the hard shaft of his sex. "I swear to you, we'll go slow next time." 

She smirked. "We'll see," she answered and her grip on his ass increased. She drove him down as she lifted herself upwards. 

He followed her movements and his hand was driven away as his cock slammed home. They stilled, each one realizing that they had finally done the one thing that they had never gotten a chance to do. They relished that moment, then each one moved. Both groaned low and both whispered "oh God." 

Mitch was the first to come back to reality. His cock demanded him to act on its behalf. He started to roll his hips, encouraging her with words and kisses to mimic his movements. For a moment a stab of jealous washed over him as he thought of her past boyfriends, but those melted away when he saw the last bit of sun hint the ring on her finger. She was his. He pushed deeper into her and told her how wonderful she felt. 

"Mitch," she gasped. Her hands moved down his back and then up again. Her mouth moved to his lips, his jaw, his neck. She couldn't find the perfect place to rest, so she covered every inch she could reach. 

As he moved in and out of her, he forced his head to move away, leaving her panting for more. Mitch traveled down her neck and toyed with the small dip at the base. One hand moved up her torso, cupped her breast and kneaded it gently. He pushed it against her and then found her nipple with his mouth. He smiled when her back arched and her nails dug into his. With the tip of his tongue he traced the perfectly formed areola and then flicked her hard nipple. "Beautiful Jess," he told her before opening his mouth and grabbing the pearl with his teeth. 

"Mitch!" she cried out. Her hands flew to his hair and she pushed him closer to her breast. "Oh God, baby. Harder. Bite me harder." 

Inwardly he grinned; outwardly he did as he was commanded and bit her harder. The sound that filled the air told him she liked it and so he continued the assault, treating her other nipple to the same treatment. 

Soon there were no more words that were audible coming from Mitch and Jessica, only the sounds of two lovers nearing the edge of a different type of cliff. She screamed out his name, nature the only audience to hear her climax. He groaned as he felt her fluids cover him. He shot deep into her. His eyes were shut, but he opened them just in time to see her face full of moonlight and love. 

When she gazed up at him, she blinked several times before she could breathe normally and several more minutes passed before she tried to speak. "Wow." 

He chuckled. "Yeah. Wow." He covered her lips and tasted their sweetness. He rolled to his back and watched her settle herself on his semi-hard cock. She rode him until he was grabbing her hips and dropping her up and down on his member. Before either of them realized it was happening, they were both climaxing again. It took another series of minutes before they came back to Earth, this time he refused her to arouse him again. 

"In a bed, baby girl. This ground is beautiful, but it's the only thing staying hard if I don't find a bed to drive into you on." 

Jessica giggled and slipped off his cock and then looked at the picnic supper. "That was your cooking that was wasted right? Not your mom's?" 

He laughed and sat up, tossing her shirt at her. "Get dressed. I've got left over pizza at home." 

She smiled and quickly donned her clothes as did Mitch. They made their way to the truck and headed down to the ranch. Both were lost in their own little worlds. Jessica desperately wanted to call Bailey and tell her to keep her ass at home. Mitch wanted to get his girl to the alter in case she had a moment of cold feet and ran off. 



Dry Valley Ch. 14



Nothing But Yes

Bailey trudged tiredly up the stairs to the bedroom unbuttoning her blouse along the way. It was still early afternoon, yet she was exhausted beyond belief. She and Aunt Wanda had been cooking all day, getting as much prepared as possible before this evening's company arrived. It was a rare occasion that the O'Gradys and Walkers got everyone together for dinner. It used to be a weekly practice, but since everyone had grown and some had moved away, it was now a rare treat.

As she entered the bedroom, she pulled off her shirt and threw it in a heap in the corner. Her cut off jeans soon followed, leaving her curvy figure clad only in a black lace bra and matching thong. Bailey glanced at her watch and let out an exasperated grumble as she realized for the tenth time that day that she'd left her watch on the desk next to her computer the night before.

The computer. It was the main reason she was so tired this afternoon. She had agonized over the letter to Tom until the early hours of the morning when exhaustion had finally claimed her. Many times throughout the night, she had some so close to getting out of bed to delete it, but her resolve had held strong.

Now Bailey glanced nervously at the desk from her spot on the bed where she had collapsed. With one touch of a button, one click of the mouse, .her life would undoubtedly change. She could press "DELETE" and the letter, and her resolve, would disappear. She would be happy for a few more days, possibly even a few weeks, before Tom figured out that there was more for him out there. By that time, it would be too late. Too late for the job...too late for the move...too late for her heart.

By pressing "PRINT", Bailey would still leave broken hearted, but she'd be away from the pain and Tom could get on with his life. She'd have a new job and a thousand miles between them to distract her. In her heart, however, she knew what she really wanted. Tom. After debating back and forth for fifteen more minutes, Bailey finally raised her tired body off the bed and walked the short distance across the plush carpet to decide her fate.

Bailey's trembling hand traveled to the mouse and opened the file that would send her away from the love of her life. As the letter popped up on the screen, she leaned over to turn on the printer and froze in her spot as her eyes caught words that were not her own.

Tom had watched Bailey walk into the house looking as if the weight of the world were on her shoulders. He nervously flipped open the box holding his grandmother's ring. It wasn't fancy, but it was a beautifully, elegant ring full of the happy memories of a marriage that had lasted a few months beyond seventy years. If it had been another girl, Tom would have agonized and fretted about buying the perfect, new diamond. However, he knew this was the perfect ring for Bailey because she was the perfect woman for him.

Tom saw Bailey's shadow move in front of the upstairs window toward her desk. He quickly covered the expanse of yard and took a deep breath before opening the door and letting himself inside. As his dusty cowboy boot touched the first step, he heard her sniffle. He stopped at the top of the steps, silently leaning a shoulder against the door frame and stared at the most exquisite sight he'd ever seen.

Sobbing quietly at the computer desk, clutching her hands together as she read his words clad only in a couple scraps of lace, Tom felt his heart embrace her. He longed to take her in his arm, to dry the tears with his lips. But he dared not interrupt her for fear that she hadn't read enough to see how he really felt.

Bailey sensed rather than heard that was no longer alone. She brought tear-filled eyes to meet Tom's. Tom eased himself from the door frame and walked slowly toward her. Taking her hands in his, he turned her so that she was facing him. He fell to his knees between her legs and looked up at her from the floor. Tom pulled Bailey's head down as their lips met in a deeply gentle kiss which caused Bailey to catch her breath. Toms' thumbs slid over Bailey's cheeks to gently dry her tears.

"Bailey, I love you. I love you more than life itself. There is no one better for me than you. Can't you see that? " Tom implored.

"Tom, I," Bailey was hushed by Tom's interjection.

"Wait Bailey. I'm not finished."

Tom opened the box and presented it to Bailey. 

"You're going to marry me, Bailey. I won't listen to anything you say unless it's the word yes. I won't let you throw away our life together. I'm going to spend the next few decades introducing you to the woman that all of Dry Valley sees. The woman that I can't stop thinking about. The woman that I live and breathe for. Bailey....will you marry me?"

Bailey's eyes filled with tears and her heart jumped to her throat where it felt like it may burst at any moment.

"Tom, we ca...." Bailey was hushed as Tom pressed her lips together with his index finger and raised up to his knees to whisper in her ear. 

"Nothing but yes, Bailey.....nothing but yes," he said a moment before capturing her lips in his. His tongue pushed through her lush lips, easing inside to dance with her tongue. Their breath mingled as his hands moved to unfasten her bra and slip it from her shoulders. As Tom leaned back to remove her bra, he purposefully let his fingertips linger over her pert nipples. 

Bailey shivered in delight at the soft touch of his callused hands on her soft flesh. She moaned in pleasure as his thumb and index finger caught her left nipple unawares. Her body involuntarily arched toward him, encouraging him on. Tom lightly swirled his tongue around Bailey's right nipple while his hand continued its sweet torment of her body. As his mouth left her supple breasts to place a line of kisses down her stomach, Bailey leaned back in the chair and ran her fingers through Tom's hair.

Closing her eyes for a moment as Tom moved lower, she was jolted back to her senses as he leaned her back in the chair more in order to place her thighs over his shoulders, allowing him unobstructed access to her dripping, sex. Realizing things were going to progress beyond her control, Bailey started to protest.

"This isn't going to change anyth....oh my god...." Bailey's breath hissed from her body as Tom's lips closed over her clit and sucked hard at her protest. Flicking his tongue over the sensitive nub, Tom smiled to himself as she squirmed against his face. Looking up with a devilish gleam in his eye, her murmured to her "Nothing but yes."

Tom's tongue eased down the wet slit of the gorgeous brunette. Each move seemed to draw her further into a net of pleasurable oblivion. Bailey's hips bucked off the chair as she felt Tom's finger slide deep inside her with one thrust. They continued to ride his finger as it slid in and out of her over and over. Just when she was so near the edge, Tom stopped and stood before her. Panting, Bailey look up at him, her eyes glazed over with unspent passion. God, she loved him. 

"Will you marry me, Bailey?"

"What if you decide years later that I'm not what you really want......Tom!!!!!!!! Put me down this instant!" Bailey yelped as Tom swooped her on in one graceful move and threw her over his shoulder in a fireman's carry toward the bathroom. Once there, he turned on the shower to a steamy setting and looked at the stunned beauty.

"Nothing but yes, Bailey.....I mean it."

Tom stepped into the shower and pulled her in after him. He faced her against the wall and stepped behind her. Running his hands along her shoulders and back, moving lower to caress her ass, then giving it a sharp little slap before reaching around to pinch her nipples.

"Oh my god, Tom.....please....." Bailey begged though she tried to resist.

Tom's finger slipped back inside Bailey's wet hole as he teased her with his words.

"Please what, love? What do you want?"

"Fuck me, Tom....I want you inside me now"

With one swift move, Tom entered Bailey to the hilt. Bailey loudly moaned his name as he felt her pussy clamp down on his throbbing cock, holding him in place. His hands on her hips, Tom placed light kisses along Bailey's neck and shoulders as the steaming water streamed over their backs. Ever so slowly, Tom started rocking his hips in and out of her. He felt as if he were on the edge, wanting to go over but wanting the moment to last forever as he watched his cock spear into her flesh over and over in a slow, teasing manner. 

Bailey tried to quicken the pace, feeling herself nearing the point of no return but not quite being allowed to get there. Each time she tried move her hips more quickly, Tom's grip on her hips would prevent her from moving on. Their lovemaking was slow, sensuous, and heartfelt. Every resolve Bailey had made seemed to be gone by the wayside. She couldn't come up with a single reason not to marry this man. It wasn't just the sex, it was him. He had taken so many chances for her. He had risked his pride for her, something the Walker boys just didn't do.

Tom's hand drifted over her ass, lightly caressing it before his finger slipped inside the fold to caress her tight bud. Bailey stopped breathing for a moment as she felt the pressure on her tight hold as Tom's finger eased inside. The sensation of his finger probing and his cock stroking almost sent her over the edge. Tom's teeth nipped her shoulder then his lips soothed away the sting. As his finger moved in and out, Bailey reached between her legs to stroke Tom's balls.

Tom grunted in pleasure as he felt the delicate fingers ease over his sack. "Oh Bailey....I love you so damn much." Tom murmured in her ear. Tom fought to pull himself from the heaven that was her. He turned off the water and took her hand, leading her back into the bedroom where he could lie her on the bed. Easing back on the pillows, Bailey pulled him to her, spreading her legs so that he could slide home where he belonged. 

As Tom entered her in one smooth thrust, her arms wrapped around his neck. She closed her eyes and held on tight as the lovemaking, though still sweet, took on a more feverish pace. Tom thrust quickly and deeply inside her now.....over and over....deeper and deeper. Her slick walls gripped his cock as he continued to delve inside her. He needed her like he needed air and she needed him like life itself. The two held onto each other as they neared the peak. Just as Tom thrust hard and deep inside Bailey and released the first shot of his hot cum, Bailey's juices flooded his cock, soaking both of them as her pussy continued to clench and unclench, milking each drop from his body. 

Tom collapsed on Bailey, her arms still wrapped around him holding on desperately as they both struggled to catch their breath. After endless moments, Tom raised his head to look at Bailey. They both stared in each others eyes, wondering what the other was thinking, yet knowing that whatever it was, it was ok. Tom was the first to break the silence.

"Bailey, please.....I love you. I can't imagine going on without you. If you want to take the job back east, I'll go with you. If you want to travel to Timbuktu....I'm there. Just please don't leave me here alone. I have the ranch here. It's a good, decent living. I may not be able to give you the best of everything, but you'd never want for anything. I'd die before I ever hurt you, Bailey. You have to see how much I love you." Tom couldn't seem to find the words that would convince her and he was starting to feel a little panicked at the thought that maybe he wasn't enough to keep her here after all.

"Bailey, listen to m......" Tom's words were cut off as this time Bailey pulled his head down to hers for a slow, lingering kiss. She nibbled on his bottom lip only to ease that action with a swipe of her tongue. 

"Yes." Bailey whispered with a smile and elated tears in her eyes. "Yes"



Dry Valley Ch. 15



Chapter 15 Silent Confrontation

Dark figure closes in on his prey

"Jonis," the woman groaned, pulling her arm from beneath her. It was asleep, and the tingling began as soon as she dropped her hand over the edge of the bed. "I have to go."

He shifted slightly, still on top of her, and she felt his cock stir against her thigh even before he came awake. Memories of the last few hours flooded her mind, and she smiled. That cock seemed to have a life of it's own!

"Jonis," she said again, sighing. She really DID have to go. Donnie would be waiting out front, in the Wal-Mart parking lot. God, what time was it? She pulled her other arm toward her face and squinted at her watch. Almost 10:00 o'clock. She was supposed to get off at 11:00. She smiled again. 

An hour...

* * *

Jonis had shown up at her register earlier in the evening, as he had the day before, and the day before that. That leering smile on his face, the sleeveless shirt and those tattoos...she immediately switched off the light over her register.

"You ready...Rita?" he said, reminding himself to say her name. Thank god it was on her tag! 

"I can take the next three customers," she'd announced, ringing up his beer and cigarettes, and ignoring the groans of the people in line. Finishing them up, she went to find Cindy.

"Listen," she told her friend at the customer service desk, "I need to..."

Cindy stopped her with a hand in front of her face. "Yeah, yeah. I know. You started your period...again! Man, I sure hope you're taking birth control." She leaned forward, craning her head toward the exit, where Jonis stood expectantly. "Who is this guy?" she asked, winking and smiling broadly when he looked toward her.

Rita looked at Jonis, then back at her friend. She leaned over the counter. "I'll have to tell you later," she said in a whisper. "Right now, I'm going to go get myself royally fucked!" She laughed at the expression of shock on Cindy's face.

"Seriously?"

"Tell Mr. Worsham for me?" she asked, as she turned to walk away. She didn't wait for an answer. She was looking at Jonis, who was making small talk with a young woman who had just walked in the door. "Bitch," she muttered under her breath, quickening her pace.

They had gone to Jonis' motel room again. This time, she made him wait until they got there, fending off his hand as he drove. She wanted tonight to be different. No blowjob in the motel parking lot. No frantic fucking just inside the door. She wanted him to lie on the bed and watch as she stripped, and then she wanted to undress him slowly, savoring the hardness of his body.

It almost worked. He'd watched, getting more and more impatient once she'd removed her blouse and skirt. Now he wanted to get his hands on those tits, and feel his cock sliding up into that warm belly! He raised his hips, watching her eyes follow the lump in his jeans. 

"C'mon," he growled, reaching for his own zipper. He slipped his pants down over his hips, and his cock sprang free. As it stood proudly erect, Jonis stroked it slowly, watching the girl intently. "It wants to play," he leered, winking at her and laughing softly. 

Rita stood at the end of the bed, her chest thrust forward as her hands sought the snaps of her bra. Her eyes were focused on Jonis, and his remarkable member. She felt a small release deep inside her, and knew she was wet. He always made her wet! Her fingers fought the unruly snaps, one at a time, and she sighed as the last one released. Dropping the bra with little decorum, she bent to slide her panties down her hips, still watching him.

"Leave 'em on," he said suddenly, and she stopped.

"I want to eat 'em off of you."

She smiled as she crawled onto the bed, into her familiar place between his legs. Her hand replaced his, and she lowered her head, extending her tongue to taste the pre-cum pooling at the top of his dick.

"Mmmmm, mmm, good," she whispered, relishing the chance to tease him, for once. 

Jonis wasn't much for teasing. Soon, she felt his hands at the back of her neck, and gave in to the insistent pressure, as he forced her mouth down over his cock. Her lips sliding along the length of his shaft inflamed his lust instantly. He laced his fingers together behind her head and began to fuck up into her face, grunting loudly, as she tried not to gag. 

She knew it wouldn't take long. Jonis loved watching her give him head, but would soon feel the need to be inside her, and that was what she really wanted. She could feel that big dick already, as it filled her narrow canal, sliding deep inside her. As she swiped at the base of his shaft with her tongue, she imagined his pelvis rocking against hers, bringing out the little stars behind her eyelids.

Sure enough, after a few minutes, he pulled her up to him. She kept right on going, climbing his body until her knees were above his shoulders, and pulled herself up by the headboard. She looked down at him. He was chuckling and staring hungrily up at her crotch, and the large wet spot on her panties.

"Sit," he ordered, and she settled onto his face. His hands came up to support her ass as his tongue took its first swipe at her wetness. Rita grasped the headboard.

"Oh, god." 

Her voice hissed its pleasure as his mouth closed over her mound, his tongue flicking rapidly at her cotton-clad lips. She squirmed over him, her pelvis grinding back and forth, pressing herself onto him as her wetness increased. This was the first time Jonis had even tried to please her, and she was determined to draw as much pleasure as she could from him. The touch of his tongue was releasing spasms deep in her belly, and they were growing. 

His hands clutched at her panties, pulling them down over her ass, and she raised her hips, just as he yanked suddenly at them. They tore, but remained around each thigh. Jonis raised his head and took the loose material in his teeth, growling as he whipped his head from side to side. It was like being attacked by a shark, but much more pleasurable. Rita pressed herself against his nose.

"Oh, god, Jonis!" she squealed, as she felt his teeth against her bare clit. Then she came, gasping as his thumb suddenly entered her asshole. She hung from the headboard like a rag doll as the pleasure surged through her, legs suddenly limp; her heart barely able to contain itself in her chest.

"Ooooohhhhh..." Her voice wavered in the stillness of the room.

When it was over, she allowed him to push her over onto the stack of pillows. He was on her immediately, his throbbing cock hungry for the feel of her warmth. Pushing her legs roughly apart, he entered her in one thrust, and the stars appeared behind her eyelids.

"Oh...fuck!"

She was getting used to his brutal approach; even anxious for it, now. Her husband had never made her feel so...wanted. Tonight's foreplay made Jonis' entry almost bearable, and the feel of his torso, slamming into her pelvis, excited her beyond her sense of reason. She was beginning to need this.

They fucked in every position she knew that evening. Jonis' sexual appetite was enormous, and she was eager to be the one to satisfy it. She ended up on her hands and knees, his heavy balls slapping her pubic bone as he sought to unleash his last load into her. Finally, with a roar of pleasure, he filled her canal once more.

* * *

Jonis came awake slowly, the girl beneath him moving against him. He felt the familiar warmth of her ass against his hardening cock, and knew from the undulation of her hips that she needed it again. He slipped his hands around her sides and took a warm globe in each palm. Nudging her leg to one side with his own, he slipped down between her thighs, and chuckled softly as he lined himself up with her center.

"Incoming..." he groaned hoarsely, and laughed again.

* * * 

Now that his business with the girl was done, Jonis resumed his surveillance of Jessica's house. He parked his truck at the usual place down the road and watched for a long time, waiting to see if anyone would come around. It was almost 11:30 at night. Probably too late for any company...

No one passed by. At 12:15, satisfied that Mitch, or anyone else, wouldn't be dropping in, he moved. Exiting his truck, he sidled along the fence rail that separated the Scout property from the road, and quickly hopped it at the lowest point. It was a short dash to a stand of trees, and then to the house. He glanced up at her second-floor window as he moved. No light.

"Bitch is in bed early tonight," he muttered. "And alone, at that!" He smiled, almost a grimace. He was tense.

It was easy to slip the lock at the back door, and he moved in through the kitchen silently, careful not to disturb anything. He had never been in the house, but he'd studied it from the outside often enough, and the moonlight made it easy to see. He slipped his boots off, and left them by the door. Now, if she didn't have a dog...

Jonis crossed into the downstairs foyer and slipped up the stairs as silently as a fog. He came to her door, and saw that it was closed. Damn! Was that Mitch Walker in there with her? He waited.

After almost ten minutes he moved, turning the doorknob slowly. Silently. The creak the hinges made as he pushed the door inward sounded like an explosion in the darkened house, and he stopped. Again, he waited, his breath held for what seemed like an eternity. He could see the edge of the bed, and Jessica's arm. She wasn't moving.

He pushed, one millimeter at a time. The door decided to cooperate, this time. The gentle groan of the hinges was barely audible, at this speed. When he had the door opened fully, he smiled. There she was!

Jessica lay on her side, one arm outstretched. The other was bent, the hand on her stomach just under her breasts, holding the covers down. He squinted. She wore a red nightie, open just enough to show the fullness of her breast. Her hair half-covered her face. Smiling, Jonis dropped a hand to his jeans. 

"If I wasn't about fucked-out..." he thought to himself. He stroked his semi-erect cock through the denim, pondering. Tonight was to be the night, but that Wal-Mart chick, and her obsessive needs, had changed his plans somewhat. Still, he'd wanted to see her; to know that he could gain entry to her house. The rest had just happened. Now, he was in her room. She looked good, there in her bed, and she would be so easy to take. So easy, and eventually, so willing...

He abruptly changed his mind. It didn't feel right; his mind wasn't right. He backed out of the doorway, and, glancing ruefully at the sleeping beauty one more time, descended the stairs. Giddy with the release of tension, he entered the kitchen again, and reached for his boots. As he pulled them on, he suppressed a wicked laugh. God, this had been easy!

Jonis, on an impulse, opened the refrigerator and looked inside. Taking some containers out, he began to rifle through them, helping himself to a handful of cranberry sauce here, a hunk of baked chicken there. He realized he was hungry.

"Fuckin' all night, and 'Breaking and Entering' takes a lot out of you," he smiled to himself as he sat down. 

When he left, there were four empty plastic containers on the kitchen table, and an opened, partially consumed carton of milk on the counter beside the refrigerator. He slipped out the door with one last look, satisfied. He wanted Jessica to know someone had been there. His cock was hard again, thinking about her reaction when she woke up.

"She'll probably call Mitch Walker," he mused. "Like HE can do anything to help her situation...especially when I come to call, next!"

Jonis slipped across the yard again, keeping to the shadows the moon afforded. As he looked up at her window, he saw a light come on in the room. He crouched beside the fence, and wondered how long it would be before she went downstairs. Would he hear a sudden scream? The crickets chirped half-heartedly as he waited.

Soon the light went out, and he knew she had just used the bathroom, or something. Was she surprised to find the door to her room wide open? He stood, suddenly, and looked up at the house, full of confidence. 

She didn't know. He was so close, and she didn't even know he was there.

Swiftly releasing the button and zipper of his jeans, he drew his cock out. It was throbbing painfully, now, needing release again. Jessica's innocence spurred his lust. He visualized her, settling back into her sheets, and his hand began to move. His breath was hoarse in the night. That red nightie...



Dry Valley Ch. 16



Mitch hopped into his truck and raced to Jess' place, not caring about stop signs, thankful for the lack of traffic. He wondered what she meant, no one in Dry Valley would enter someone's home in the middle of the night, residents of Dry Valley just were not like that.

When he was finally able to calm Jessica's nerves, it only served to raise his anger beyond belief. God help the person who had entered her home he told himself, his rage about to explode. What else had this person done while here, what else was the lunatic capable of doing? He admitted to himself that someone had in fact entered her home, someone had violated her privacy and he made a pact to himself that it was the last time it would happen. Jess belonged to him now, it was his duty to protect her and he would do that even if it meant his life. Mitch made Jess vow that every night from here on out would be spent in each other's arms.

Mitch headed back to his ranch to begin his day. This intruder was really playing havoc with his head. He sat and thought about what had already transpired, about the day before all this had happened. The big Wednesday night dinner at the O'Grady's had been just twenty four hours earlier. Both were excited to share their proposed marriage with family and friends. They discussed on the way over how Wednesday night dinners use to be a weekly exchange and agreed, once they were married, they would continue the tradition, inviting everyone over to their place.

Dinner was served later than planned; the news of both pending marriages seemed to be more important than dinner this evening. For the Walker's, it meant their sons would finally be happy, finally settle down, and hopefully, they would see grandchildren running around soon. The O'Grady's were thrilled to finally see their niece come out of her shell to become the beautiful person they knew she was. Not only that, but a girl certainly couldn't do much better in Dry Valley than to take a Walker boy as her husband.

When the ladies had finished cleaning up after the dinner, Jessica stepped out onto the porch, taking Mitch's hand and tugging at him to follow her. She led him out back near the creek before saying anything. She knew something was bothering him and had a pretty good idea what it was. She placed her fingers against his lips as she began speaking in a soft, calming voice.

"It's okay Mitch, that your brother has news as exciting as ours. You should be happy for him, not angry. All that really matters is that we will be spending our life together."

Jess knew Mitch well enough to know of his jealousy towards his twin brother. She knew that it always seemed to him, that his brother managed to take the attention off Mitch and turn it on him. It had been like this all his life. She pulled him to her, holding him tight, kissing him in a way that she knew would turn his head to more pleasant thoughts. Once again Jess proved to him that they were made for each other, knowing exactly what to do to him. His arousal was immediate, his hands wandered down her back, grasping her butt and grinding himself into her. 

"Let's say our goodbye's and get out of her Jess. I promised you a night of long steamy sex and I always make good on my promises."

It wasn't but a short time later when they pulled up to Mitch's ranch house. Where they would stay the night had not been discussed, but Mitch wanted this night to be special, one she would remember when they were old and resting in their rocking chairs together on their front porch.

He held her head gently while his mouth pressed against hers softly, easing his tongue inside her warmth. The softness of her face contrasted to the roughness of his fingers as they made their way along her neck, before reaching the buttons on her blouse, undoing them one at a time. "Jess, I love you," he whispered as he slid the blouse off her shoulders, his calloused fingers sending shivers through her. His eyes shifted to her full breasts contained only by the white lacey bra, his cock reacting to the view his eyes consumed.

"Mitch, let me..." He held his fingers to her lips, silencing her as his eyes rose eventually looking into hers.

"Let me do this my way Jess." His lips pressed tightly against her neck, opening to suck her into him. Leaving a mark, letting all know, Jess belonged to him.

His hands met behind her, undoing the snap that contained the nipples he wanted to devour. Mitch slid the flimsy straps off the feminine shoulders, releasing Jess' breasts. He immediately bent down, his mouth opened to swallow, suck, and lick her nipple, making it harder than it already seemed to be. His hands descended down her back, holding her hips tightly while lowering Jess to sit on the edge of the bed. As her body lowered, Mitch followed, ending on his knees before her. 

His eyes peered up to hers, pleading with her. Jess looked down, unsure what his look meant until his lips opened.

"I know I promised slow Jess," his hand already unfastening the skirt that covered her lower body. "I'll make you happy tonight Jess, many more times than you ever thought possible, but, seeing you, being alone with you, I'm not sure I am ready to take it slow." His hands already had her skirt down to her ankles. Mitch bent lower, kissing her hips, licking under the waistband of her panties. His hands slid them delicately down her shapely legs, licking along.

"If I promise to make this quality over quantity, does speed really matter?" He looked into her eyes, pleading for the answer he wanted. He wasn't sure why, it was the way it would be anyway, he would take her quickly and would take her many times throughout the night. Mitch picked her up, moving her body on the bed, laying her head back against the pillows. 

He pulled his shirt off, tossing it to the floor, his hands immediately undoing and lowering both his pants and underwear. He stood out, straight, the head of his cock glistened with pre-cum. Mitch laid over Jess, his lips enveloped hers, and their tongues collided in a panic frenzy. Their hips moved together, the head of his shaft opening the folds of her sex, feeling her wetness.

Mitch's arm slid under her leg, his bicep hardening under her thigh, lifting it up, spreading her wider to accept him. When her leg was bent he pushed in swiftly, not stopping until he moaned, his hips grinding against hers. Together they quickly reached a rhythm, with not only hips but hands and mouths as well. It wasn't long before they climaxed together for the first time in their lives, the first time of many before the sun rose in the eastern sky, the first time together of many if Mitch had anything to say about it. 



Dry Valley Ch. 17



This is a part of the chain story "Dry Valley", started by RedHairedandFriendly, and written by her, myself, Jushorny, Wyldbreeze, and gotwood49. We hope that you enjoyed this chapter.

Tom, Bailey, Mitch, and Jess all agreed to meet that Friday night for the Rodeo, which was opening that weekend. Like any good Texans, they had gone to the Rodeo every chance they had. It was more than just bull-riding, of course. There were food stands, concerts, drinks, and all other amusements associated with outdoors events. With any luck, they would all cut loose and enjoy spending time as friends and family. They were hanging out as couples on a double date, after all. It was time that they publicly behaved as couples, now that they were together. 

Tom could sense that Mitch was still a little jealous about sharing the good news of wedding plans, so he wanted to make a point of getting his twin in a better mood. In time, of course, there would be no resentment and Mitch would focus on being happy with Jess. However, he wanted that to happen sooner. He didn't care to have any bad blood with his own brother. He discussed it with Bailey and she seemed to agree. 

Of course, he didn't want this kind of discussion to ruin the fun that they were having, but he imagined that they could manage it. After all, it was just envy over attention. It wasn't that Mitch still felt that Tom wanted Jess. He knew better, or at least he should know better. All that would happen was that he would allow Mitch to show off and be the center of attention, without trying to steal his thunder. 

"Hey, Mitch, still have that iron stomach? Bet you can't eat 3 bowls of extra-hot chili and chase them down with 3 beers at your age! Let's make it interesting. 10 bucks says that you'll get too full and too much gas first," Tom needled his twin. 

"You're on, buddy. I always could do better than you at eating lots of spicy food! If I keep it down, I get to dunk you. I can't take money away from you right now. You have a wedding to plan, after all. Dunking you is more fun, anyway," Mitch replied. 

"Fair enough, but I don't have a fresh pair of jeans on me. Someone will have to hold my valuables while I'm in the dunking booth, if you win," Tom taunted him. 

"This is a completely macho bet, but I'll gladly hold your wallet. I need a new pair of shoes, and I don't want Mitch to have to pay for all of my shopping," Jess teased them. 

"Jess! That's my boyfriend you're talking about robbing blind! You should be ashamed of yourself! Besides, you're a modern, independent woman with a career. You can pay for your own damned shoes, and probably want to, anyway. In any case, if you minded a 'macho' guy, you'd be dating some city slicker, not a Walker boy. You know how they are," Bailey scolded her, though admittedly in the same joking vein as her friend. 

"All the same, I'd feel better letting my girl carry my wallet. She needs to get used to how slim it's likely to be. I'm not a rich man, after all. Well, Bailey, will you hold my stuff, in the unlikely event that Mitch gets to dunk me?" Tom winked at his fiancée. 

"Yes, Tom, but you know that you're provoking Mitch, which means that he's more likely to try hard. On the other hand, he'll get less drunk if he eats something, so there is some benefit. You think that you boys might grow up and stop trying to outdo the other some time this decade?" Jess snorted, though she didn't really pretend that it wasn't amusing. Her man was trying to impress her, so that was flattering in a bizarre, subconscious way. 

"What would be the fun in that?" Tom asked her in jest. 

"For once, Tommy boy, I agree with you," Mitch chuckled. 

"Who are you calling 'boy'? We're twins, right, Mitchell?" Tom retorted, knowing that Mitch hated his full first name. 

"Are you guys going to taunt each other or carry out this bet, already? The sooner we get the eating and drinking done, the sooner we can watch the bulls and then get to listen to Mark Chesnutt sing. I've been a fan of his for ages," Bailey laughed at them, but she was a little impatient. 

His concert was at 8 PM, so they had to do everything by 7:30 to get good seating ahead of time. It was 6:15 already, so there was a hurry in her mind. 

"Oh, sorry, I forgot about your favorite country singer. My fault, I suppose, honey," Tom apologized. 

"Get used to apologizing. Women have a habit of getting those from you," Mitch grinned. 

"Speak for yourself. I don't plan to be in the doghouse any more than she is, if I have my way," Tom deliberately provoked both his girlfriend and his brother. He knew that it was harmless teasing, and it was a good sign, an indication that Mitch was letting go of his resentment and just taking part in the fun. 

"Well, you will both be in the doghouse if you don't hurry up and do this best," Jess chimed in, not wanting to be left out of the joke. 

"You're right about that, Jess," Bailey snickered. 

"Girls, always sticking together. That figures!" Mitch complained. 

"Naturally, since it tends to help us get our way," Jess smiled innocently, but her eyes were anything but angelic. They were still sober, and already into devilish mischief. The night would be full of it, at this rate. 

Tom was worried for a while that Mitch would be able to hold his own with the hot Texas chili, but the third beer nearly defeated his brother. He managed it just long enough to keep his dignity, but his thirty something belly was not equal to its younger form. Mitch found himself being the dunkee, since they hadn't stipulated what would happen if he lost. A silver lining was that he now had room for dinner after being quickly dunked by Tom's fastball arm. Tom always did pitch abnormally well. Mitch had overlooked that fact, and he kicked himself for it afterward. Having Jess grimace when he belched was not a great highlight, either. At least he didn't upchuck, or even his dignity would have vanished. 

Tom personally felt vindicated, not just about the bet, but also about making Mitch feel more like the center of attention. He winked at Bailey, and she grasped that was his real purpose. Well, that was and generally lightening up the mood. Both had succeeded, and he even got to duck Mitch. That was not bad for an evening. 

Mitch handled himself and his embarrassment very well, being particularly glad that he did as well as he had. He secretly feared that he wouldn't pull off the third bowl and last beer without vomiting, so only belching and having gas (the determining factor) was a relief. He even felt like he had impressed Jess by not taking himself so seriously, despite her grimace and comments (and Bailey's) about "macho", "immature" behavior. That was all typical feminine teasing, he assumed. That was just another skirmish in the battle of the sexes. 

Mitch didn't eat very much during dinner, of course. The chili and beer, despite not keeping him permanently bloated, took the edge off his appetite. He drank plenty of Gatorade, however, and had to visit the men's room more than once. It was a definite reminder that he was not a youth anymore. 

Tom had a couple of beers and a nice BBQ sandwich, while Bailey enjoyed a turkey leg. Jess and Mitch ate hot dogs, but Jess also had a funnel cake with powdered sugar. The girls drank margaritas as well, after they finished eating. Most of the time, they walked around while eating and generally teasing each other. 

Jess especially picked on Bailey for her crush on Mark Chesnutt and her urgency to attend the concert. It was girlish teasing, but Jess knew not to push it too far. 

Bailey had the last word, "Just wait, Jess. You'll be a fan too. Speaking of that, it's about time."

Jess looked at her watch and noticed that Bailey was right. It was now 7:28, so they settled into the stadium for the concert. They certainly paid attention, because Bailey insisted on it, but Tom and Mitch made a point of picking on each other a lot off and on. It was just typical brotherly quarreling, merely a nuisance, so the girls ignored it. They were both fixated on the singer and thoughts of their respective lovers. They were also thinking about their lives would be spent in Dry Valley with those men, when they had planned to leave and not return. 

As the concert ended and they walked toward their cars, Tom asked Bailey, "So, is this a lifestyle that you can see yourself enjoying for another 50 years?" 

"Hell, yes!" Bailey declared, and saw from the look on Jess's face that she felt the same way. Both of them had made choices, and she was convinced that her friend would be as happy with a Walker man as herself. Settling down in Dry Valley wasn't as scary as she expected at first. 

Tom and Mitch stared at them for a moment, and each realized what the girls were probably thinking. They both gave each other a boyish grin, as if to say, we snared them. What didn't occur to them at that point was that the "trap" was mutual. Then again, it didn't matter. It was best for all 4 of them. 



Dry Valley Ch. 18



 Someone is Watching 

Mitch and Jessica followed Tom and Bailey to Henry's, where they were soon enjoying beers and loud country music. Many of their friends were there, and several rounds of drinks were bought for the two couples. Beer flowed heavily for several patrons and eventually there were times the brothers were hauled onto the dance floors by other the other beauties of Dry Valley, but through it all, stolen glances of heated promises were passed between each respective couple. 

"Excuse me," a voice whispered against Jessica's skin, as she watched Mitch twirl Patty Reah around the floor. Jessica turned and stepped out of the stranger's way. The scent of tobacco filled her nostrils and she shuddered at the deep unfiltered smell. 

"No worries," she whispered under her breath and felt the man purposely brush against her ass. She scowled, but said nothing else, only shivering inwardly. 

"That was rude," Bailey muttered, just as the man walked away. 

"Yeah, he looked a bit familiar. Didn't he?" Jessica asked. She couldn't shake the feeling, though she tried.

Bailey shrugged her shoulders. "Well, you've probably lost touch with a lot of faces here in the Valley. I don't know him. I come back pretty regular to visit my aunt and uncle, but I don't make Henry's a frequent stop. Just chalk it up to deja vu." 

Jessica smiled, "You're right. Besides, I have more important things to discuss with you." 

"Oh?" Bailey asked, with one brow arched. 

"Yes. It seems like there are two brides, two grooms and that means two weddings." Jessica sipped her drink and waved to Mitch and then Tom, who were switching dancing partners. 

"Are you thinking a double wedding?" Bailey asked. 

Jessica sighed. "I know that is what the mom's are going to be thinking, but I'm wondering if we can do something else. I mean Mitch loves his brother, but there was a bit of tension there when we made our announcement and you made yours." 

Bailey shook her head in agreement. "Well, I bet I could get Tom to elope." 

Both ladies laughed, but their conversation was stalled when their fiances walked up behind them and pulled them into their arms. "What are all the giggles about?" Mitch said, pulling Jessica deeper into his embrace. He kissed her neck and slowly ran his tongue along the exposed nape, before nipping at her ear lobe. "God, I love you," he told her and turned her into his arms. They kissed without thought as to who was watching and then moved away from each other, only when Bailey chuckled. 

"Need a room?" Tom asked and then winked at his brother's girl. 

Jessica blushed and pulled herself away from Mitch. "Actually, as tempting as that sounds I'm going to take Bailey home with me tonight." 

All three friends voiced objections. The men's voices were much louder than Bailey's, but even she was protesting. Jessica rolled her eyes and stomped her foot in mock frustration. "Look. I'm getting married and I want a Maid of Honor and that is Bailey." 

Her friend grinned. 

"That means I need to pour over Bridal web sites and discuss flowers, and caterers and not to mention the colors of our wedding. . .pinks, blues, pastels. . ." Jessica smirked when Mitch and Tom stepped back, with looks of horror on their flushed faces. 

"You win " Mitch said. "I'm letting you handle all of that. Just promise me you'll lock up the house. Every window and every door." 

"Great," Jessica said, " and you know I will. Now, I'm not drunk so I'm taking your truck," she grinned at Mitch and slid her fingers into the front pocket of his pants. She looked out of the corner of her eye and saw Bailey saying her goodbyes to Tom. 

Mitch rolled his eyes. "You just rhymed. Are you sure you're not drunk?" He pulled her back into his arms and kissed her. His tongue swept along side hers and soon she was clinging to him. "Are you sure you're wanting to do this?" he asked.

"Mmm. . . no," she kissed him again. "Mmmm. . . yes," she whispered and kissed him again. "Damn, it no." She pushed him back and growled. "Mitch, no more. It's time to go Bailey," she said and left her lover's arm. 

Bailey gave a pout, but winked at Mitch, kissed Tom and followed her friend out of the bar. Jessica caught the eyes of the stranger and politely nodded to him in passing, wanting to give him the benefit of the doubt, though she wasn't sure she could. There was just something about him, something familiar that nagged at the edge of her subconscious. 

Mitch noticed her nod, looked at the man and felt his hackles rise. "Hey, do you know him?" he asked his brother. Tom turned and stared at the stranger. 

"He looks a little familiar," Tom said and shrugged. "Why?"

"I don't know. I guess I'm just not sittin' easy since Jessica's break in," he answered. He ordered another beer and took a long draw from it. "I guess I'm just looking for trouble." 

"Yeah, I know what you mean. I'm kinda surprised you'd let them go back to her place alone." Tom said. 

"Hell, she's not going to be alone. We're going to crash the party. I'm giving them a few hours and then we are going to do a panty raid." The two brothers laughed and resumed their drinking. Mitch's mind occasionally moved over the face of the man in the corner, and he tried to grasp at the straws that pulled at him; nothing came. When the man finally left, Mitch felt his body sigh in relief. He was overreacting, some punk kid had probably broken into Jessica's and that was all there was to it. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

Jessica drove home with Bailey next to her. The two girls chatted and talked about the evening, touching base on the Rodeo as well as the antics of their boyfriends, before the concert. Eventually, though each settled into a quiet ride, reflecting silently on the upcoming months ahead. 

When they arrived at the house, Bailey turned toward Jessica. "I'm surprised Mitch let you come home without him, after the other day." 

"Yeah, me too, but I suspect he'll be here first thing in the morning or at least calling me as soon the sun rises," Jessica chuckled. "I've decided to let it go. I can't be scared in my own home, what kind of life would I live?" 

Bailey smiled and the girls left the car, and headed inside the small home. "Well, I know he was worried so was Tom and myself. It just doesn't happen around here." 

"Well, the way I see it is like this. . . The antics and tricks we played as kids on our neighbors were not funny to them, but they were to us. Kids these days are just playing stupid tricks on neighbors that are different than our tricks." Jessica opened the fridge and grabbed a jug of cold milk. She poured two tall glasses, while Bailey got down a package of Oreo cookies. 

"We NEVER broke into anyone. . . well we never vandalized a home," Bailey said, after having cut herself off, after remembering the times they snuck into their friends bedrooms, because someone had gotten grounded or were sick and not allowed to come out and play. 

Jessica smirked. "Eh, it was just a few leftovers I would have thrown out eventually." 

The two women headed upstairs to Jessica's room and settled into laying on her bed and flicking through online sites full of wedding dresses as well as wedding party dresses. They clicked back and forth over caterers and party planners, but in the end, each decided that leaving Missus O and even their soon to be Mother out of the plans seemed wrong, but then they toggled back and forth with eloping. When they shut the computer off, neither one really was any closer to a decision on how to proceed with their weddings. 

"Let's get some sleep. I've got spare jammies in the top drawer," Jessica told her friend. She walked over to her bedroom window to close the blind and stopped. She stared into the darkness, almost sure she saw something moving outside. Her gaze focused on her walkway and across the street, but she saw nothing. The O's house was dark as were her neighbor's, so she knew they were resting. No one was walking along the sidewalk and the small lamps the town used gave off an eerie glow, but she saw nothing that was out of the ordinary. "Damn, you," she muttered to the night, silently cursing the kid that had dared to frighten her. 

"Everything okay?" Bailey asked. 

Jessica turned. "Yeah, just being over cautious." 

The two best friend's climbed into bed and began another round of chatting. This time they spoke of the past and when the last time they had a sleep over. This brought up Misses O's almost walking in on Mitch and Jessica and how she had declared it was good that her niece, Bailey was having a sleep over with Tom Walker. In the end, the girls' talking slowly eased into whispering and then soft, quiet snores. 

As they slept one shadow crept closer, its intent dark and deadly.



Dry Valley Ch. 19



Dry Valley Chapter 19:

The Confrontation...

Author's note: this story contains some violence and sexual situations which may make some people uncomfortable. It is not gratuitous, as I feel the story line demands it. If it offends anyone, I apologize in advance.

Jonis downed the last of his drink, and gestured to the barmaid, who smiled at his attention. She was a pretty little thing, blonde and overly friendly, as barmaids tended to be, and normally he would have been more than happy to administer to whatever need she felt. Not tonight, though. Tonight was different. A few more straight scotches, and he'd be ready.

"Another," he rasped, and watched her body as she moved to the far end of the bar to pour his scotch. Someone shouted to her for a beer, and Jonis' eyes dropped to the tight red shorts she wore as she bent over the cooler. His gaze burned through the material, and he imagined her naked. He felt the familiar rush of blood into his cock, and pushed it against his leg as it expanded. Suddenly, in his mind, it was the Scout bitch he saw. That brief brush against her ass tonight had excited him...and concreted his plans for her.

She and the other girl had just left, but their boyfriends had stayed, and Jonis had seen them discussing him. Maybe it was time for him to leave...

He threw a wad of ones on the bar and headed for the door, ignoring the barmaid's voice as she called after him. Once in his truck, he leaned back in the seat and loosened his jeans, sliding the zipper down. Much better! There were some people milling around outside Henry's, so he resisted the urge to stroke himself, but his mind was filled with the girl, and her friend. He didn't know her, but she interested him, as well. Maybe he'd have her, later. Any friend of the bitch's, was fair game! Thinking even darker thoughts, he started the engine and gunned out of the parking lot. It was a short drive to the Scout place. He pulled the big Bowie knife from the glove compartment, and dropped it into his lap. 

*  *  *

From his vantage point beside the fence, he couldn't see much, but he'd gotten brief glimpses of the two young women as they passed the window of Jessica's bedroom, and he knew they were together up there. He kept watch, awaiting his time. It would come, eventually. When he saw Jess at the window, staring out, he ceased any movement. Shortly after that, the light went out. Jonis stayed stock-still, in case she was still watching, but his mind went into overdrive. 

"They're sleeping together," he muttered, his voice barely audible above the buzzing of the cicadas. "That makes things VERY interesting!" There was only one bed in the room...that, he remembered very well. He imagined the bodies of the two women as they lay together in the lone bed, probably talking about girl-things. Their knees would be touching, the feel of flesh against flesh subtle, but in the back of both their minds. In his mind, he was sure of that. Jonis couldn't comprehend them not being attracted to one another. They were both attractive, and her friend, he'd noted, had moved with the confidence of someone who'd recently discovered her own beauty. He smiled. "I'll bet Tom Walker is helping that along," he thought wickedly.

He imagined them laughing, touching each other as girlfriends would, and he grew harder. His dark mind had them suddenly grinding together, their knees interlocked; hands going to the other's waist as they looked into each other's eyes. They would share a kiss; a long, deep one, and then their hands would slide upward, pulling at the material of the other's nightie. Caressing, until they were both naked. Soon one of them, probably Jessica, would pull the other girl over onto her, and surrender her bared breasts to the girl's mouth.

Jonis was getting pretty uncomfortable, crouching behind the fence. His cock was throbbing! He stood slowly, his eyes on the window, just in case one of them was still there. Though his gaze was on the window, his cock was pulsing, and his imagination was already feeling the tightness of their pussies! He wanted to yank his dick out and close his eyes, imagining the scene that was unfolding up there, but he checked himself. It had been over 20 minutes. Time to move. His figure was only a shadow, moving toward the house, ever so slowly.

He tried the side kitchen door, but soon realized that someone had put a deadbolt on it. "Probably Mitch, trying to protect his little skank!" he thought. He knew Mitch was finally getting some from Jessica...he'd stayed over late the last few nights. "Good," Jonis said to himself. "He'll have her primed for me!" He slipped around the back side of the house, and found the cellar door unlocked. Not satisfied with that, he began to check windows. He was pleased to find the little opaque window into the pantry unlatched, and knew he could squeeze through it. He did, with little trouble.

Socks and shoes off, he crept up the stairs, one step at a time. The house was deadly silent...not a sound. Finally reaching the top of the stairs, he paused outside the doorway to Jess's room and listened intently. It was wide open. "Well, they ain't playing," he told himself. He could hear the soft snoring of one of them, and closed his eyes as he listened. The excitement of being so close to them, unseen, was powerful, and he was harder than ever! He fingered the knife, stuck into his back pocket. Then, taking a breath, he walked into the room.

Jessica smelled something. It wasn't right. She struggled half-heartedly to open her eyes, but sleep was a powerful foe. She lapsed back into slumber, her mind yet uneasy. "In the morning..." she told herself.

Suddenly, there was a voice in her ear! It was a whistle, soft but insistent. Then there were words. "Wakey, wakey," it said. "Time to play." Her eyes shot open, and in the semi-darkness she could only see a large shape bent over her. As she struggled to make sense of it, a hand went to her wrist, clamping around it tightly. She jerked, now completely awake, and screamed.

Her shriek split the night air, bringing Bailey to instant wakefulness. Jess was in trouble! She turned over and jerked upright to see someone struggling with her. Then she saw the glint of steel in the night. She screamed, too, their voices combining like an air raid siren. A low voice was barely audible over their own, but Bailey heard the chilling words even as she scrambled from the bed.

"Keep it down, ladies, and I won't have to kill you."

Both Jess and herself quieted immediately, the intruder's intent clear and dangerous. Bailey backed against the dresser, eyes on the dark shape, her hands clenched protectively over her chest. Her mind was racing. Jessie was still moving, but the knife was now at the side of her neck, and she was realizing that she had nowhere to go. She stopped her struggles and sat on the side of the bed, her head down. Bailey saw a sudden sob wrack Jess' body.

"Who are you?" she asked in a plaintive whine. "What do you want?" The man still held her right wrist in his iron grip, her arm in the air. He laughed. It was a terrible sound, dark and ominous, and Bailey's whole body cringed inside. Jessica sobbed again.

"Oh, don't remember me, eh?" the stranger said, chuckling. "Well, that's funny. I didn't think you'd forget me, after I fucked the HELL OUT OF YOU, that night." He emphasized the last few words, and Jessica suddenly focused. Oh, my god!

She drew her eyes upward, trying to see the face above her; knowing who it was, though her mind tried to block the images of that night, as she had for so long.

"Jonis?" she asked timidly, and Bailey screamed.

"Jessie!" she yelled, propelling herself across the bed to grab her friend around the waist. It was a protective move, and one she never even thought about. It just happened... a natural motion, born of concern for her friend. Jessica sank back into her embrace, just as naturally, but Jonis' grip on her wrist held her suspended between the two.

"Hey, there. Take it easy," the steely voice told the young woman. "Let's don't go making such a scene. We're just talking over old times, Jess and me. Right, Jess?" 

Jessica had withdrawn at the realization of the man's identity, and was sobbing softly again, her body tight. Bailey felt her pain and her fear, and suddenly, her anger exploded to the surface.

"Get your hands off her!" she screamed at Jonis, drawing herself to her knees on the bed. Her face was stormy. "Get the fuck out of here, and get the fuck out of our lives!" Her arm went protectively around Jessica's neck, as if she dared the man to touch her friend. Jonis was surprised, and then amused. After all, he had the knife! He studied the face of the other girl, and his mind suddenly clicked. 

"Bailey?" he said, incredulously. "Bailey, with the buck teeth? Fat Bailey?" He shook his head and laughed. "Well, if this isn't a kick in the nuts! Looks like ol' home week around here." He looked her up and down. "Damn, girl...you got nice!" He leered at her, running his tongue lewdly across his lips, and Bailey felt her heart sink. Her anger subsided, replaced by a new feeling, just as powerful. 

Fear.

Jonis, sensing that shift in her senses, developed a sudden plan. He knew that Jessie wouldn't be much of a problem. She was in shock and denial, but this new girl...Bailey...she was full of fire, and needed to be dealt with. Looking at her, dressed in Jess' lacy pajamas with her hair wildly askew, Jonis suddenly looked forward to it. He spoke in even tones to the girl.

"You. Move off the bed and come around here." It wasn't a question. Bailey hesitated, watching the knife at Jessica's throat, aware of her plight. She saw it press into her skin, drawing a tiny drop of blood at the tip. Her eyes went back to Jonis', and she saw that he was watching her intently. "That's right," he said. "I'll slice her from ear to ear, if you don't do as I say."

Her voice wavered as she gasped, "Oh, god, no! Okay. Okay, I'll do anything you say. Just don't hurt Jess!" She crawled quickly off the bed and came around the end of it, knowing Jonis must have some dark purpose for her. So be it. It might give Jessica a chance to get away. Looking at him with trembling lips, she waited.

"Get panties," he ordered. "Loop 'em around her wrists, and tie her to the bed. Do her ankles, too."

Bailey began to cry, softly. "Nooooo..." she begged. Jonis only sneered and yelled at her, reminding her that she held her friend's life in her hands, and she'd better get a move on. 

Feeling like her legs were full of lead, she moved to the dresser and began to pull open the drawers. She half-hoped there was a gun in there, but she knew Jessie didn't like guns, and not even Mitch could make her keep one in the house. It was hard to tell what she was feeling in the darkness, but at last she found a pile of folded satin things, that had to be underwear. She brought a handful of them to the end of the bed. Jonis smiled, enjoying the sight of the delicate underthings in the moonlight. He wouldn't mind having Bailey try some on for him...and Jessie, too...but right now they had a better purpose. He nodded at Bailey, and she picked up the first pair.

Bailey whispered in the ear of her trembling, staring friend, telling her not to worry; that everything would be okay. Jessica seemed not to hear her words. Instead, she lay back on the bed obediently, and allowed Bailey to twist the sheer garment around her wrist. Jonis held the knife to Jessie's throat as he watched Bailey.

"Nice and tight," he said. "Drop it over the bedpost."

The bed, with it's short round posts at all four corners, suited Jonis and his evil plan perfectly, and Bailey soon had her friend spread across the bed, completely immobile. Now she turned to Jonis, her heart pounding, wondering what he had in mind for her. It didn't take long to find out.

"C'mere," he ordered, stepping away from the bed and loosening his jeans. Bailey padded reluctantly around the bed and stood before him, and he put the knife against the side of her throat, just as he had Jess'. She was sobbing again, her voice a keening wail of desperation in the night. She put her hands out, as if to hold him away.

A quick slice of the knife, and he had opened a cut on her wrist. She drew her hand back quickly. "Don't!" he yelled, then his voice became calm again. "Don't even try to do that. Now, get on your pretty little knees, Bailey." His other hand on her shoulder forced her down, and she dropped to her knees, holding her wrist with her other hand. It hurt. She didn't dare look up at him.

"Take it out." Jonis pushed his hips forward, waiting for Bailey to drag his cock from his half-opened jeans. She didn't move, only sat on her knees, head down, shaking quietly. He shoved the point of the knife against her neck, hard enough to pierce the skin. "Bitch!" he shouted, as Bailey cried out. Her hand went to her neck, and Jonis put the blade against it, warning her to do exactly as he said. "I'll cut your other wrist," he warned. Jessica, on the bed, turned her face to the far wall, unable to process this horror. 

Reluctantly, the girl pulled downward on Jonis' jeans, and bent her wrist to haul his bulky member out. "Oh, god!" she thought, as it filled her hand. She looked away. Jonis put his hand on her head, and turned her to him. 

"I told you to take it out. Now, take it out and suck it...and you better not bite!"

Bailey tried to block it out of her mind, as she slid her mouth around the man's thick member. She remembered her times with Tom, when this was a pleasant thing; something they both wanted. Pleasing him was so enjoyable; his moans, and his thrusting of hips. This wasn't pleasant. This was torture! Jonis' hand was at the back of her head, pulling her forward. His crotch smelled musky, as if he hadn't bathed lately, and his skin had a foul taste on her tongue. She realized, suddenly and horribly, it was the taste of another woman. She gagged.

Jonis laughed, just as the car door shut quietly downstairs.

*  *  * 

Mitch, who was only somewhat drunk, and his brother Tom, who was completely giddy with the combination of beer and lusty thoughts running through his head, exited Mitch's truck and staggered toward the house. Tom was laughing, and it irritated Mitch.

"Keep it down, would you?" he whispered. "How the heck are we gonna surprise the girls with you carrying on like that?" He was single-minded in his purpose, while Tom only seemed to want to act the fool. It had always been that way, it seemed.

Mitch opened the door with his key. The deadbolt was on. Good! It meant the girls were safe. He warned Tom once more with his eyes, and stepped into the front room. "I mean it," he whispered. "If they're asleep, I don't want you scaring the life out of them."

Tom leered. "Yeah, but if they're awake..." he drawled, "I want you out of there." He rolled his eyes dramatically, and Mitch had to grin. His brother didn't stand a chance of getting any tonight, he figured. Too many beers! Suddenly, he heard a sound.

"Shut up," he whispered. "I think they're awake." 

They both listened, but the house was now quiet. Long seconds passed.Then, a voice, and they started. It was definitely a man's. The brothers looked at each other, and without a sound began to creep up the stairs. They were suddenly sober, and Mitch felt a hot feeling in the pit of stomach. Something was wrong. 

The picture that greeted them as they reached the top of the stairs and peered into the darkened room was almost unbelievable, and they both hesitated.

"That's it. Suck me real good," the man was saying. His back was partially to them, and Bailey's face was clearly visible. Mitch saw tears on her cheeks, but Tom only saw an image, one that would linger in his mind for years. The man, with his hand on her head, guiding her motions. His fiancée, on her knees, hands on the man's knees, taking him in. Sucking him. He never even saw the knife at Bailey's neck.

"You bitch!" he shouted, storming into the room. Jonis jerked around, the knife held out, but Tom was already headed straight for him. As he swung, he caught Tom's side, and stuck him. It was enough to stop Tom in his tracks, as he backed away from the pain in his gut. "Fuck!" he howled, reeling backwards. 

Mitch had also entered the room, and saw the attack on his brother. He assessed the situation quickly, his mind on Jessica. She lay completely still on the bed, and he feared she was dead. His main concern now was for Bailey, and his wounded brother. He caught Tom in mid-stumble, and lowered him to the floor. Bailey was still in the grip of the man, his hand tangled in her hair. Her face was filled with terror.

"Back up!" Jonis ordered, "or I'll kill the girl!" He grinned madly at Mitch, his hand tightening it's grip on Bailey's hair, and Mitch suddenly knew who he was. He crouched, ready to attack, but knowing he couldn't get to Bailey before the knife did, he waited.

"Take it easy, Jonis" he said, as calmly as he could. "Nobody needs to get killed here, tonight." He noticed the man was still hard, his cock waving in the air, and knew he was excited by the situation. He tried to calm both him and Bailey, who was crying in fear. It was a tense situation, but he hoped to diffuse it, if he could. He would give Jonis a chance to get out, and then worry about Bailey and Jessica. "Just let her go," he said, "and leave."

Jonis laughed, the laugh of a madman suddenly revealed. "Yeah?" he shouted. "Fuck you! I'm gonna teach that little bitch over there, once and for all, who's the man around here!" Nodding toward the bed, he held the knife aloft, twirling it to show Mitch the size of it, and the horribly sharp edge. That was when Bailey acted.

Holding her hand flat out, she shoved the side of Jonis' knee as hard as she could, and felt the satisfying crack as his patella separated from the rest of his leg. Jonis howled in pain, and began to fall to the floor. His hold loosened on Bailey's hair, and she fell backward instinctively. 

Mitch didn't hesitate. His boot came down on Jonis' wrist as it hit the floor, and the knife fell away. His other foot swung in an arc, and when his work boot connected with Jonis' chin, the man went out immediately. Mitch fell onto him, pinning him, just in case. He swiveled his head to look at Bailey. She was already half-up, watching him intently.

"Get something," he panted. "A rope. Some wire...anything!" She moved amazingly fast, slipping the panties from Jessica's right ankle and handing them to Mitch. He understood, and looped them around Jonis' left wrist, twisted them tightly, then captured his right. Bailey handed him the knife.

He looked at the girl admiringly. "Thanks," he said, smiling. "You did good, Bailey." Sticking the knife in his back pocket, he turned Jonis over roughly, and asked her for another pair to secure his ankles. She complied quickly, still watching the two men closely, in case Jonis woke up. Once she was sure Jonis was secured, she hurried to Tom. He was bleeding and in pain.

"Oh, god-damn!" he groaned, playing the moment for more than it required. His cut was deep, but clean, and there was lots of blood. He was aware that his brother had taken Jonis down, and would be the hero for it, so he opted for the sympathy vote. Mitch's worried look was his reward. 

"Tom, are you alright?" Mitch asked, torn between his blood kin and his woman, who still lay incapacitated on the bed, but was alive, he now knew. Bailey told him not to worry; she had him. Mitch hurried to the bed, pulling Jessica into his arms, whispering to her that it was okay; everything was going to be fine. Jess looked up at him, then suddenly burst into tears, and he held her tightly. All eyes were on Jonis, but he didn't move.




Dry Valley Ch. 19



*  *  *

Sheriff Holbrook told Mitch not to worry. His brother was already being transported to the hospital; his fiancée was okay, according to the doctor, and Jonis was headed to jail. Bailey was talking to a deputy, giving her account of the attack. He watched her, his eyes full of admiration for the girl. She had endured the worst horror, and come through it like a champ! You never knew about some people...

Once the doctor and the psychologist had finished with Jessica, he was allowed to see her. She looked so small and frail under the blanket the paramedics had given her, but Mitch knew differently. She had endured a nightmare he wouldn't wish on anyone, but now her chin was up, her eyes alert, and he knew she would only be stronger for this test. He only hoped it wouldn't affect her decision to remain in Dry Valley. Her smile when she saw him approach gave him hope. He took her into his embrace, and just held her. He wanted to hold her like this forever, he thought, as the police scurried around them, finishing their work.

*  *  *

Rita suddenly sat up in bed. Her husband asked her, in a sleepy voice, if everything was all right. It was 3:15 AM. "No," she said, distractedly. She was reacting to her instincts, and they told her something was wrong. "I don't think so, Donnie."     



Dry Valley Ch. 20



Finishing Touches

Three days had gone by since the break-in and attack on Jessica and Bailey. The women had been moved to the Walker Ranch, much to Missus O's soft muttering. But she knew the ranch was the place the girls needed to be to recuperate, she was however out there every day just to ease the burden on her friend Sissy, though Sissy didn't find it a burden at all. She enjoyed having the town's beauties in her home again, it was like old times, when the small group would run around and play in the large ranch home. 

"Sissy, I wonder what will happen to the man," Wanda asked. Her fingers worked another bead onto a needle and she stitched the seed pearl onto the bodice of a wedding gown. "I don't like killin'; never have, but I wouldn't mind it." 

Sissy smiled softly. "Wanda, he'll be put away for a long time. The girls are safe now and the boys aren't going to let anything happen to them." 

The two best friends worked in silence for several more minutes, before the sound of the crashing screen door filled the air. "Mom," Tom said in greeting, kissed her cheek and then did the same to Wanda. "It looks like you're in your elements," he said and fingered the soft silk. "Whose is this one?" 

Wanda slapped at his hand scowled. "Go wash those grimy things before you stain it. It's Bailey's and I'll not have you marring the cloth before the lass gets to wear it." 

"He'll have it tore off her before you know it," another deep baritone voice said. Mitch Walker, Tom's twin and the other groom to the houseguest living in his mother's home walked in and kissed his mother's cheek and then greeted Wanda as Tom had, with a customary peck. 

He could feel the heat of the old woman's blush and knew he had embarrassed her. He smirked and winked at his mother, who shot him a look of ‘behave'. He feigned innocense and moved to her side. "You've both been working like slaves to get these dresses done. The girls said they'd be fine with store-bought ones." 

"Oh no they will not " both women declared almost simultaneously. Tom and Mitch chuckled, but knew it was no use arguing. The two women were bound and determine to get the hand made wedding gowns done and though they were working hard, they weren't working alone. Jessica and Bailey had also added their Home Ec. skills from Highschool and had stitched up the lace onto cuffs and hems. They had both decided to throw themselves into the wedding, the dates now rushed forward, because both men wanted their women safely tucked in their beds and behind locked doors. 

The phone rang; Mitch squeezed his mother's arm and told her he'd answer it. Tom asked where the girls were and was directed out to the barn. He left Mitch to answer the phone and kissed both women goodbye. His face hadn't stop beaming since Bailey had agreed to marry him by the following Friday. It was now Monday and he'd have his woman in his bed in just five days. They'd been celibate since the attack, something Bailey had wanted and though Tom wanted nothing more than to make love to her and wash the memory of Jonis's touch away he had agreed. 

He stepped into the barn and saw the two women stroking the flanks of one of Mitch's horses. He knew Mitch would be moving the stud to his ranch in a few more weeks, so it was good that Jessica was getting to know the animal. He watched the two women, best friends since Elementary School and was awed by how precious each one was to him. Jessica, he thought he could have loved, and he did love her, but not in the way he did the woman that stood beside her. Bailey had always had a place in his heart, one he denied for a long time. 

He had seen her on her knees, taking in the cock of Jonis and inside he had raged. Now, looking back how could he have thought the act he was seeing was anything but forced. He knew she loved him and he wanted to make up for the split second doubt he'd displayed. He'd apologized many times, and she had accepted it, but still he couldn't wait to show her how much he loved her and would never doubt her love for him again. 

"Hey," Mitch's voice reached him at the same time that his hand dropped onto his shoulder. "Let's talk." Tom raised a brow and followed his brother toward the railing of one of the outer corals. He had just caught Bailey's gaze and he raised his hand in greeting. The two men disappeared and Tom felt the tension in his brother. 

"What's up?" he asked, then remembered the phone had been ringing when he'd left the house. "Who was on the phone?" 

Mitch took a look back, making sure no one had followed them out of the barn. He pushed his fingers through his hair and stared at his brother. "How's the slice you took from Jonis?" he asked. His eyes glancing down to where he knew bandages covered the wound the man's knife had formed in the tussle at Jessica's. 

"It stings, but I've had worse, what's up? You look a little green," Tom said. He felt a knot forming in his gut and he could almost hear the words forming in his twin's mind. 

"Jonis was being transferred from the county jail, up to the courthouse and he got a hold of the Deputy's gun, shot him in the leg, then grabbed some passerby," Mitch said. He spoke low, his voice full of menace. "The Deputy will be okay and the hostage was found outside of town missing the car he had showed up to the courthouse with and looking like a bull ran him over, but he's alive. No sign of Jonis. Ma's gonna call the girls in and have them help with the dresses." 

"What are we supposed to do?" Tom asked. 

"We are supposed to stay out of trouble and wait here with our women," Mitch growled low and rolled his eyes, "but that's horse shit and you and I know it. Jonis is gonna come back to the Valley and finish what he started if we don't find him and deal with him ourselves." 

Tom grimaced. "Mitch we can't take the man's life, even if we find him." 

"Fuck yes we can, if its self-defense." 

"If what's self-defense?" a womanly voice called out. 

The two men groaned and turned to face the owner of the melodious words. "Hey babe," Tom said pulling Bailey into his arms and holding her tight. He kissed her brow and stepped back. "Mitch and I were just talking about how nice it would have been to finish off that asshole." 

"I see," she answered back. 

Jessica came up next to her, rubbed Bailey's back and then squeezed Tom's arm. "We'd all like that." She walked around and gave Mitch a hug and a kiss. "Bailey and I are going to finish up a few details on the gowns and then head into town for a trip to Becky's shop." 

"Ohhh that sounds fun," Mitch said, rolling his eyes. Becky had been the head cheerleader and prom queen. She was now the owner of the only custom clothing store in the small town. 

"It will be, she's starting a line of lingerie . . . " Jessica let the words fall where they may and grabbed Bailey's arm. "Let's go. They'll be drooling at the thought of us trying on panties and bras together." 

The men laughed, but agreed. Both having erotic images dancing in their heads as they headed to the barn to talk to their dad. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

Jonis kicked the flat and thought about changing the tire. He dismissed the idea. He didn't have time. He was only a couple of miles from Rita's. He knew she had a car and he knew she'd take him wherever he wanted. He stuffed the gun in his pants and began the trek through the woods to her home. His fingers itched to wring the neck of the Walker boys and drive his cock into the slick pussies of the cunts they were marrying. 

He reached the edge of the woods, darted across a dirt road and then moved through the tall fields of hay. Eventually, he tangled his way through another wood and then into the back yard of a beat up shack, one that he knew held Rita, and her husband. He headed to the back door, intent on getting to the woman and having her help him, whether she wanted to or not. 

Rita was alone, washing dishes and listening to the tunes of George Straight blaring on the radio. She'd just gotten over the initial shock of hearing that Jonis Owens, once a resident of Dry Valley, was on the loose after being arrested for the attack and attempted rapes of two women, whose names were being withheld. She remembered how she had said a silent prayer, when she first heard the news of his initial capture. She prayed that he make out okay, and then tried to put him behind her. It had proved hard the first day, but easier as she counted herself lucky that her husband never found out. The news now, disturbed her and brought him back to the forefront of her mind. She hoped he got away. She knew Jonis was ruff, but rape, that was just foolish. . .wasn't it?

"Hey baby, miss me?" 

Rita's eyes grew wide and she dropped the soapy rag back into the water. She turned and locked eyes with Jonis. Her heart stopped and her hands shook. She smoothed them down on her jean clad legs and then crossed her arms. "Wow, I didn't expect you to come here. Your being hunted." 

"Yeah? Where else would I go, them damn bitches have the whole fuckin' town on their side." 

Rita felt the anger rolling off him. "I'm sure it's a misunderstanding." 

"Are you?" he asked, one brow came up and he moved toward her. 

Rita took a deep breath. There was a menace to him now, something that she had always pushed back, so she could experience the hard, rough, fucking he was so good at. She stepped back though, not sure if she wanted to have him when he was as angry as he was now. The movement wasn't lost on Jonis though and she saw his nostrils flare.

"You scared of me too? You bitch. I come here and need your help, but you're gonna run like a scared rabbit?" He reached out for her and grabbed her arm, hauling her to him. 

Rita was startled, but felt her sex tighten in anticipation. "I'm not running baby. I'm sorry," she mumbled. 

"That's right, you better be. Now I need your car and you; I need to get out of here," he said as he dragged her from the room. 

"Jonis, I can't leave " she exclaimed and pulled back. "I've got a husband."

Jonis laughed and hauled her up to him. "So, that didn't stop you from letting me fuck ya senseless." He pushed her against the wall and dragged her arms down to her sides. His mouth settled over hers and his tongue plunged in deep. 

Rita didn't struggle, but she did think. Her reaction was to melt into him, let him screw her long and hard, quick and dirty, just get his cock buried deep in her womb and come all over it, but in the back of her mind, she knew if she went with him she'd never make it home again. She returned the kiss and then waited for him to ease off of her. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

Tom and Mitch drove along side roads that led in and out of Dry Valley, in search of the car that Jonis had stolen from his temporary hostage. When they came across it, both men grew silent in thought. Jonis was far from the Walkers and that made them wonder whom Jonis was running too. Bailey and Jessica were safe though and for that they were thankful. 

"We're gonna have to head out on foot," Tom said. "Should I call the Sheriff?" he asked. He and Mitch were looking for Jonis on their own, but he felt it was time to let the Sheriff know what they had found. 

Mitch thought a moment. "Yeah, call him up. I'm gonna call Pa and have him saddle up a couple of the horses and bring them out here. It'll take some time, but we can cover the woods better on horseback." 

"Sounds like a plan," Tom said and reached into the truck for his cell phone as Mitch pulled his from the clip on his belt. Phone calls were made and within forty-five minutes Mitch and Tom were riding with a few other area ranchers who had decided to form their own "mini posse". They fanned out in different directions, each relying on tracking skills long taught to them by friends and family members. 

Back at the ranch Bailey and Jessica kept stiff upper lips as they waited on word from their Grooms. They had grown tired of watching the nervous flutter of Wanda and Sissy grow. It had been obvious something was up when the two women joined the older ones who were fretting over what they claim was a flaw in the sizes of the bodices for the dresses. Jessica and Bailey knew that the two ladies had sewn more clothes in their lifetime than many in the area and could probably make the dresses in their sleep. 

When Sissy's husband came in and cursed, calling for Sissy and then speaking low to her, his gaze shifting to the two Brides-to-be, Jessica and Bailey felt their fingers curl in anger and despair. 

"Out with it," Jessica demanded. Her eyes bored into those of Sissy Walker, soon to be her mother. 

Bailey stared down her aunt and when Sissy returned to her seat, having kissed her husband goodbye, she turned back to each girl. 

"The Sheriff called and Tom and Mitch are going out searching for Jonis, seems he got away this morning on his way to the courthouse," Sissy told them, reaching for Jessica's shaking hands. She gripped them and Wanda held Bailey's. "The boys found the car he used to get away, and are now searching with others for him. They'll be alright." 

Now, time was crawling and Jessica felt as if her soul were trapped in Jonis' grip. She hated him and wanted his life over. He'd violated her once, invaded her home and dragged her friend Bailey into it. She wanted him dead, but not at the cost of her love's life or the life of his brother, her best-friend's lover and her friend. 

Bailey too was worried. She demanded to be told where the boys had found the car, but Sissy held firm and refused to share with her the information. Bailey vowed it would be the last time she was to ever feel like the ‘little woman' waiting at home. She glared out at the driveway, willing her soul-mate back to her. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jonis had felt relatively safe in Rita's home. He learned her husband wouldn't be back till late, so he decided he'd enjoy a bit of sport and a meal. Rita had cooperated, but Jonis could tell she was biding time and that had infuriated him. She now lay on the floor of her living room. Her body was bloody and bruised. His cock hung limply, but throughly used. He sat on the couch drinking his third beer and wondering if he shouldn't just torch this house and the bitch laying sobbing in a curled pile. 

He kicked at her and demanded she shut-up. He heard her whimper and he chuckled. Reaching out, he grabbed her hair and hauled her up back toward him. He didn't see what Rita had done while he'd been scrounging in her kitchen. He never saw the look of fear and determination in her eyes, too drunk on power to notice it. When the small pistol sank into his gut and the stinging burn of the bullet, wove itself into the thick layers of skin and then into the hard muscles and found its way into his heart, he felt his fingers lose their grip. "What the fuck," he muttered and looked down on the fingers gripping the trigger. 

"I could have loved you . . . " Rita whispered. Her lips were swollen, both eyes almost closed shut and her face looked as if someone had used it for a punching bag. One arm lay twisted at a grotesque angle and her chest hurt when she breathed. Now her eyes shed tears that stung the various cuts on her face. 

Rita had watched him turn into a raging lunatic that was unreachable. She had worked with him, sucking him off and making him comes, but when he had reached down to caress her pussy, and found it dry, he'd known she was too worried about his presence and his threat to take her from her home. He had become livid, pushing her to the living room and onto the floor. She struggled, bitten and clawed her way out from under him, but he was stronger and eventually she was forced to take his cock into her dry sex. He'd come fast, and then continued to plunge into her, the slickness of his seed, easing his weapon into her. 

She still fought and he still beat her into submission. He'd taken her head and smashed it into the ground, into her coffee table and against her walls. Her arm had been torn from its socket and she knew several ribs were broken. When he'd finished with her, he'd left to get a beer. She however, had kept a grip on one strand of reality, her husband had a gun, loaded and within reach, if she could just muster the energy to get it. 

She had. 

Rita worked up the strength to crawl to a box, kept behind the TV. She pulled it out and toyed with the lock. They had never locked it, but it was stiff. Her fingers pried it apart and then she pulled the lid open, found the small weapon and tucked it against her stomach. She undid the safety and waited, she knew she'd never make it alive if she left the house with Jonis. She'd lose her husband and her life, it was just a matter of when Jonis was tired of her. 

Now she watched him. A part of her died with him as the life in his eyes began to fade. "I'm sorry," she whispered. Suddenly she jerked back, as the sound of her front door being knocked in vibrated through the house. 

"What the . . . " Mitch shouted, taking in the scene before him. 

A woman, he didn't know, lay in a crumbled heap, her eyes wide and full of tears that were spilling down her bruised and battered cheeks. Jonis sat naked on the couch, lifeless eyes stared down at the gaping hole in his gut, a ring of black marking the entry wound of the deadly bullet. He dropped the gun his father had brought when he'd brought the horses and reached out to stop his brother from advancing on the woman with the gun. 

Tom took in the scene and felt a calming presence wash over him. "It's over, huh?" he asked. 

"Finally," his brother answered. 

The two men slowly approached Rita, talking calmly to her, until she was able to look up at them and acknowledge their presence. "I couldn't go with him," she told them and let the gun fall to the floor. 

Tom scooped it up and tossed it far from the woman. He called the Sheriff and within the hour, police from several counties were responding. When Tom and his brother returned to the ranch, it was with their father following behind them, horses in tow within the safety of the truck. 

Bailey was the first to spot the dust rolling up the drive and she ran out, followed by Jessica, Wanda, Sissy and the low, hanging belly of Jeb, the ranch's guard dog. The low bark of the Basset Hound filled the air, but was drowned out by the roar of the trucks' engines. When Mitch and Tom emerged from the cab, they were plowed over by their respective lover's and rewarded first with hugs and kisses and then slaps to the chests as they were berated for putting themselves in danger. 

The rest of the week moved swiftly, dresses were finished, and bridal showers given. Mitch had approached Tom, telling him he wasn't wasting another week just to make Jessica his bride and was more than happy to share the wedding date with him if Tom was willing. Tom agreed, moving his and Bailey's Friday wedding to Saturday so both brothers could marry at the same time.

The sun blazed across the Texas sky that Saturday morning as two women dressed in handmade gowns of linen, lace, satin, and silk walked across the white rug that had been unrolled to lie against the thick grass of the Walker's back yard. At the end waited two men, dressed in black slacks and white shirts, each sported ties that they both swore never to wear again. Cowboy boots that had been scrubbed and polished till they shined and their faces were full of love. Their eyes matching in all ways but one stared down the makeshift isle of flowers and ribbon as their loves walked toward them.

Words were spoken, vows exchanged and rings pressed into palms and then slid onto fingers. When each one met the other in a kiss, the audience of well-wishers sighed in unison. The kisses grew more heated and it was only the loud cough of Wanda O'Grady and Sissy Walker that stopped the two couples from letting themselves be lost in each other and give a public show to the guests that had come to welcome Dry Valley's jewels back into the nest.