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Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 02

By: sultrylove



For the prequel to this story, please see Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 1. 

Jennifer:

She sat at her cubicle dejectedly doing her job. It'd been two weeks since their rendezvous at her house, and she'd never felt more conflicted. Things that she'd always thought she'd hated about John were suddenly becoming...cute. Cute. John had never been cute to her. Irritating. Frustrating. Egotistical. A jack-ass. Sexy as hell. But never cute. 

So why was she suddenly smiling when she heard his laughter across the office? Or giggling when she saw his eyebrows drawn together in concentration as his eyes bored into his computer onto his latest project? It couldn't be because of the sex. Yes, it'd been the most heart stopping sex she'd ever had in her life, and with someone she'd been so close to since childhood, but she'd never been effected by sex that way. She wasn't a slut by any means, but she'd had a small number of one night stands, and been perfectly fine with never being in contact with a sex partner. As a matter of fact, she didn't even give it a thought. If it wasn't with someone special, then it didn't matter, and there hadn't been a "someone special" in a very long time. 

Shane had been her perfect ideal man. Tall, dark, and sexy of course. But he'd also been intelligent, kind, and romantic. Always thinking of her, always planning for them. And yet, with as perfect as he was, she couldn't be with him anymore after two years of companionship. They'd even moved in together, sharing their entire lives together. At some point, it just hit her that she couldn't spend the rest of her life with him. He just...wasn't it...Wasn't Mr. Right. She thought she could live with him being Mr. Right Now, but when she tried that out for a few months after the realization that he wasn't right for her, she couldn't bear to lead him on that way. She'd been so caught up with having the ideal life and man that it took long enough to realize he wasn't what she needed. She couldn't bear to lead him on that goose chase any longer.

Shane had been so hurt after the break up, it hurt Jennifer to still think about it. And it hurt to be alone. After two years of never sleeping alone, going back to an empty home had been hard for her. Just as hard as an empty sex life...

Her thoughts bounced back to the present. There was no reason for her to be so crazy acting after one episode with John. And yet...she looked at him through his office window...something had changed. No matter how much she hated him, something had changed. 

She glanced up as a shapely red head walked through the door, and toward John's office. Shit. John's girlfriend. How could she have forgotten...what's her name....Vanessa something. 

The door closed, the blinds dropped, and Jennifer felt heat come to her face. How could she possibly be so stupid? Of course there was nothing between them. Other than Vanessa. 

Embarrassed and feeling even more dejected, she tried her best to quiet her thoughts and focus on her work...to not much avail.

***************

John: 

Vanessa stood before him as she usually did, beautiful and seductive, luring his eyes to various parts of her body. She was his girlfriend of six months, and came to "visit" him at the office frequently. He guessed it was more to remind the other women of the office that he was attached than it was to see him. She was that kind of woman. 

He knew his relationship with her was nothing serious, despite what she might think, but he did enjoy reaping the benefits. 

She glanced up at him with clear blue eyes and spoke to him with that delicious undertone of sensuality, "How's your day been honey?"

He took her into his arms and kissed her lightly, testing the waters, "I've definitely had better days," He muttered into her hair.

She leaned back to look up at him, a naughty gleam in her eye, "Well I'd looove to make it better for you..."

She ran her hands down his chest to caress him through his slacks where he hardened quickly under her touch. She tip toed to kiss him, moving her tongue forcefully into his mouth trying to find his response. 

He wanted her. God he wanted her. But, somehow, he kept flashing back seeing Jennifer's wet naked body, then feeling incredibly guilty. He didn't feel bad for cheating on Vanessa. He knew of many occasions where she'd slept around, and it didn't really bother him. He felt bad for being with her when Jennifer was in the next room.... or being with Vanessa when Jennifer existed. With what he'd felt with Jennifer...in Jennifer.. he couldn't even think of Vanessa. All he really wanted was Jennifer, hot and ready for him, squirming under him, moaning for him... again. 

He pushed Vanessa away gently and smiled at her pouting face, "Sweetheart, you know I'd love to, but I have a lot of work to do today. I really need to not be distracted.."

Her face contorted, "Baby...this is the third time this week you've rejected me..do you not want me?" 

"No baby of course I want you! I've just been really stressed, and I have a lot to get done. Tonight hon I promise I'll make up for it."

Her pout slowly turned into a grin, and she kissed him again before turning on her heel, "Ok baby. Don't be late tonight. I'll be waiting with something special on for you." She walked out of his office, and he saw every man watching her retreating curves. She was a great temporary girlfriend, but for some reason he just wasn't into it lately. He couldn't touch her without wishing it was someone else... He glanced at Jennifer, brows furrowed in concentration over her work, and smiled. 

He then flashed back to being with her in her shower, feeling her underneath his searching hands, and was suddenly sporting an outrageous hard-on that was very visible through his slacks. He quickly sat at his desk hiding himself from his co-workers and tried to focus on something other than Jennifer Brandon.

***************

Jennifer: 

The day was finally beginning to come to a close, the minute hand inching toward the 12, and the hour hand nearly at the 5. Well shit. There was a flaw in a design John had sent out to the office, and it needed direct, quick attention. No one else was going to catch it except for her. She sighed, and stretched to get up and go to John's office. He was already grabbing his jacket, and clocking out, mumbling to himself.

"John..." she peered into the office as he turned to look at her, "I have a question about the email you sent out..."

He smiled tiredly, and motioned for her to come to his desk as he sat back down, "What's up Jenny?"

"Jennifer..." she muttered, "John... Mr. Tate... I hate to point this out right at 5 o' clock but it's pretty important..." She leaned over him showing him his flaws, watching his face go grim as she continued to correct him.

He sighed and shook his head, "Thanks Jennifer. I really owe you...if I had sent that to corporate... Well thanks." He muttered. 

She looked at him for a while, then hesitantly touched his arm, "John...you really are doing a good job... Granted I'd do it better... Much better... But you're doing it well enough." She smiled as he jabbed her in the arm and added, "Had I not applied here as well, you might actually deserve this job."

That brought a laugh out of him, and realizing that she was still leaned over him so tantalizingly close, she began to straighten when he caught her arm. They looked at each other for what seemed like ages, and she murmured, "John..."

He stroked up her arm, cutting her off, and whispered, "I haven't... I haven't been able to stop thinking about you."

She bit her lip, conflicted, and huffed in frustration before bringing her lips down to his. There was no hesitation as he slipped his tongue against hers, moving his hand to her face to draw her closer. She groaned into his mouth, her need suddenly matching his.

Her position, still leaning over his side of the desk and turned toward him, was rather awkward. John soon realized, and stood to meet her, pushing her up against the desk. She sat on it, and he began working on their clothing, slowly unbuttoning and unzipping here and there. 

She began patting his hands away and groaned into his mouth, "Vanessa..."

He shook his head and muttered, "I don't care."

She broke the kiss, looking at him, unsure of how to take his statement, but he was soon kissing her again, more rough in his movements, bruising her lips a little. He began trying to work their clothes again, but she again patted away his hands. 

He pulled away huffing in irritation, and she grinned, "Sometimes it's just as fun to fuck with clothes on..."

He looked at her long, watching her lusty glow as her shirt was half unbuttoned, breasts halfway exposed in a black lacy bra, her skirt hiked up to her waist showing the end of her thigh high lacy panty hose, and her dainty feet in four inch heels. Grinning he simply nodded and resumed kissing her, his hands roaming all over her body, and hers doing likewise. 

She reached the bulge in his pants and caressed it, feeling him lurch and groan in response. She moved her hands into his unzipped fly, and drew him out, his cock hot and hard in her hand. 

He moved her lacy panties to the side, and she helped him position himself at her hot, wet entrance. He moved into her slowly, pumping inch by inch as her tight cunt accepted him. She wrapped her legs around his waist, the new angle making her tighten around his thick shaft. He groaned and moved his mouth to her neck, kissing and biting along her neck and shoulder. 

She sighed in pleasure as he found a rhythm, and moved her hips in time with his. His mouth clamped onto her shoulder once again at the same time that one of his thrusts hit her clit, and she cried out, "Fuck! Oh..John...Yes... Faster..."

But he continued with his slow rhythm, rocking her slowly on the desk, her legs quivering around him, her moans becoming desperate.

"John...I need it... more... please..." 

But he still made her wait, pumping her full of him, then moving out, moaning her name now and again at a maddeningly slow pace.

"Tate! Now! I need... Fuck me now Tate!"

Steadily, due to his passion along with her desperate cries, he began moving harder into her, his pace quickening bit by bit. Soon he was ramming her, her legs and hands clutching him as she clawed his arms and bit his chest, grunting and screaming in the rhythm of his thrusts. 

Soon, he felt her tightening around him, and she let out a string of curse words along with his name in ecstasy, writhing and bucking against him in passion. He let go with her, shuddering as he spurt into her, his face contorting as he moaned, "Oh...God Jen..."

They relaxed against each other, and she rested her head on his chest, shuddering as he pulled out of her. Suddenly shy, she moved quickly to go clean up in the bathroom. When she came back, he was working on the design again, breathing heavy, but seeming very concentrated. 

"Do... Will you need my help with any of that...?" She looked at him questioningly.

He looked up and raised an eyebrow, "I'm perfectly capable of handling this on my own Jenny. Remember, I am the boss. You're free to leave."

Her breath caught at his tone and her face hardened, " Fuck. You. Tate."

He sighed and looked at her flatly, "Please. Do. Jenny."

She spun on her heel and left in a hurry, and for once, she wasn't just pissed at John Tate. She was genuinely hurt. And she had yet to figure out why.

***************

John:

He sighed as the door slammed behind her. He wasn't trying to make her mad. And he knew she was better at this job than he was. He needed to prove to her that he could do this.

He frowned at his own thoughts. He'd never felt the need to prove anything to her. She was just his friends annoying little sister. A menace. A bitch. He didn't have anything to prove. 

But as he glanced at the very spot they'd...fucked at not thirty minutes earlier, he knew he was kidding himself. He couldn't get her out of his mind, and he had his suspicions that she couldn't get him out of her mind either. He'd never felt so conflicted. Just having her scent in the room with him still was maddening. 

He sighed and hurried to finish his work. He still ended up being two hours late in getting home, completely forgetting about his promise to Vanessa. He walked in to see a very, veeery angry girlfriend. At this point, however, he was in no mood for games. 

"Jonathan Alexander Tate. Where the hell have you been??? I called your cell phone twice and you didn't answer, your office phone went straight to voicemail...Where were you???!!!"

He sighed and went to the fridge for a drink, and grumbled, "I had to work late. It was something that came up at the last second."

"Well good thing you let me know! God I was worried sick! You could have been cheating on me or God only KNOWS what else, and I..."

"What the hell is wrong with you Vanessa?" 

She gasped in mid sentence at his question, "I... I don't know what you mean..."

"I was two hours late. I didn't answer my phones. I could have been laying on the side of the road dead, and you're worried about me cheating on you?"

She looked down, and mumbled, "I'm sorry baby...I didn't think..."

"No, I guess you didn't." He said quietly, removing his shirt.

He turned as he heard a gasp, then a string of curses, "What the fuck John?!" Vanessa shouted as she traced the claw marks on his back and arms, and the bites on his chest with her fingers, "Oh my God. You were cheating on me! These are fresh John! What the hell?! You're gonna make me feel bad like I'm a bad girlfriend, then I see that you were just having a fuck fest? What is your problem?!"

He sighed, looking unimpressed with her outburst, and said flatly, "Maybe you should go home Vanessa." 

She gasped and her eyes narrowed as she hissed, "You bastard." 

She grabbed her purse and keys and stormed out the door as he yelled behind her, "You can pick up the rest of your things tomorrow. I'll leave them on the porch."

He shut the door and climbed into bed, weary and confused. His thoughts kept returning to Jennifer, and he hated it. Nothing about her had changed. She was still mean. She was still a bitch. She was still that same girl he'd grown to hate through the years. So why couldn't he stop thinking of her? Why couldn't he stop dreaming of her?

He shut his eyes, and tried to block her out of his mind as he drifted into a fitful sleep.

At the same moment, Jennifer was looking out her window, imagining what John might be doing, and wondering why she cared. 

"This has to stop," she said aloud to herself. "I have to stop."

She sighed and drifted off, trying to keep from dreaming of the one man in the world she hated most.

To be continued. 

Please comment and let me know what you think.

Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 03



For the prequels to this story, please see Frenemies With Benefits chapters 1 and 2.

I am reading all comments that are submitted, and I appreciate all of them. Thank you for your honesty, compliments, and encouragement.

*

John: 

It had been a month since he'd broken up with Vanessa. Hell, it'd been a month since he'd had sex. For him, that was a damn long time. And the whole time, he still couldn't stop thinking about Jennifer. He thought at first she'd start to warm up to him. Two incredible sexual rendezvous ought to do that to a person. However, she'd remained as cold as ice. Colder, in fact. 

After their last time in the office, she came to work, and left. There was no talking, no banter, not even biting sarcasm or harsh criticism. She just came and left. If she had something to say to him, it was only work related. She'd say what she had to say, and leave. He even tried to joke with her a few times, with no response, then called her Jenny, and she didn't correct him... didn't even act like she'd heard him. He wasn't really sure what he'd done, but he felt like an ass nonetheless. 

He glanced down at his watch. 6:47. He'd promised Mike he'd meet him and a few other guys for drinks at Toby's, a local bar, at 7:00. He grabbed his jacket and headed out the door.

He spotted Mike immediately upon entering. Walking to him, the closer he got the worse Mike looked. His disheveled, sleepless look had John wondering if he'd hit the bottle hard again. Even so, disheveled and sleepless somehow didn't take away the affect Mike had on women. He was flirting with some hot blonde already. Still, though, he didn't look like himself.

Mike had a reoccurring battle with alcoholism. Everyone had tried to get him to quit for years, but he never would listen. It hurt John to see his very best friend throw away such potential. 

He got to Mike and sat, seeing that his friend had already gotten him his drink of choice, and the blonde left when John approached.

"How you doing man?" John asked him taking a sip, "And where are the guys at?"

"Ah you know. They backed out at the last minute, but I figured you and I could catch up, at least. I'm not so great at the moment."

John looked up to see Mike's brooding face, "What's goin on?"

Mike sighed, looking down, "I got fired man. I've been working there for years, and they fired me. I had to move back in with my parents... I'm a single grown man living with my parents," he shook his head dejectedly, "I don't even know what to do anymore. My mom gave me money to go out tonight, just because she likes me hanging out with you. I'm not thirteen anymore... It sucks," he finished lamely. 

"Mike I'll get you tonight, don't worry. You don't need to spend your mom's money."

"I don't need to spend yours either. At least she's my mom. You're my friend."

John sighed, and promised himself to pick up Mike's ticket. "Hey..I know your going through it but you haven't been drinking heavy again have you? That's the last thing you need..."

"Only a little. I'm fine John. I don't need help. I'm not an alcoholic."

"Ok...ok," John sighed. He hadn't seen Mike in months, and wasn't going to spend this night fighting with him. 

They got into lighter conversation talking about John's work, and Mike's parents. John had a special place in his heart for them. They'd been better parents to him than his own had been. Every single event he'd ever had from baseball to graduation, they'd been there. 

His parents missed nearly everything. They were divorced, and both had turned to alcohol after the bad break up, leading to a very dysfunctional home life that had pushed John to make something of himself in life. Had he not had the support of Mike's parents, he wasn't sure where he'd be.

As the conversation continued, he was startled when Mike suddenly yelled waving his arms, "Jennifer! Hey! Over here!!"

He turned to see Jennifer, red faced and wide eyed, with another pretty girl that he recognized from the office... Heather something. Hmmm. He hadn't known they were friends. 

Mike kept calling to her, so she reluctantly walked to their table greeting John with a slight head bob and Mike with a smile and a hug. Go figure. Mike somehow convinced her to stay at their table as he looked at John and winked, motioning his head toward Heather.

"So who's your friend, Jen?" Mike smiled that flirtatious smile he'd used so often in high school.

"Oh, sorry Mike, this is my friend from work, Heather Tillman."

"Ah, so you all know each other?" he asked them. 

"Yeah," Heather smiled shyly.

"So," Mike motioned at John and Jennifer "How are you two getting along in that office? Is the building still standing?"

Jennifer shifted uncomfortably in her seat while John glanced at her and slowly nodded, mumbling, "We have a...uh healthy work relationship."

Everyone looked at Jennifer, expecting something, but she just kept fidgeting. Finally, she stood up, announcing, "I have to go to the restroom. Heather, come with me?"

The two left together, and Mike chuckled, "What is up with girls going to the bathroom together??" 

John, still uncomfortable, just laughed and shook his head.

Mike's eyes narrowed, searching John's, "Alright dude. Fess up."

"I don't know what you..."

"Don't bullshit me man. I've known you too long. You two are either fighting or fucking. Maybe both. What's the deal?"

"I don't even know Heather, man, she just works with me," John mumbled, trying to evade him.

"We both know very well that I'm not talking about Heather. Give it to me straight. You fucking my sister?"

"It's....more complicated than that."

"So that's a yes?"

John sighed, finally giving up, "Yes."

Mike smiled and shook his head, "It's about damn time."

John nearly spewed his drink everywhere. Choking and sputtering he yelled, "What?! We hate each other! We always have!"

His grin widened and he laughed, "Yeah I know. I always knew you'd end up killing each other or fucking each others brains out. You're too perfect for each other. Always have been. The only thing is, you're both too stubborn to see it. You still seeing that hot red head?"

John was nearly speechless. Mike had never even hinted that he thought something more would come from his and Jennifer's strange tolerate-hate relationship. He gathered his wits just as the girls came back and sat down, now answering Mike's question, "No. She and I broke up about a month ago."

"Ooooh that red head that always came to see you?" Heather jumped in, then shied away turning a little red.

John answered Heather's question, but was looking at Jennifer, "Yes, Vanessa. We broke up."

"Why," Mike asked, eyeing the gaze held between his sister and his best friend.

"She wasn't right for me. I may have found someone that is, and I didn't want Vanessa in the way."

Heather's eyes got big, completely oblivious to the tension between the two, "Oh really? Do we know her?"

John broke the gaze and smirked at Heather, "You know, I'm not sure if anyone really does."

***************

Jennifer:

She could not believe this was happening. Surely John hadn't been talking about her...but he had to be. The way he was looking at her... She took another drink of her margarita and sighed. She wasn't sure what to think anymore. 

For the last month, all she could think of was John Tate. Yes, she'd avoided him like the plague, but she'd thought he was still with Vanessa. Jennifer did not want to be in the middle of that, and she did not want to be the other woman. She was better than that. 

But now here he was, saying he was free, and he wanted her. Did she want him? She eyed him across the table, his smile beaming and his eyes gleaming, that hot body just underneath a tight polo... Yeah. She definitely wanted him. No matter how irritating, how frustrating... she did want him.

But was that all she wanted? Sex? Or did she want...all of him?

Her thoughts were interrupted as a tray of jello shots and jeger bombs were brought to the table. She laughed and asked with wide eyes, "Who ordered these??"

Heather laughed and raised her hand, "Guilty! Didn't you hear me? I asked you if you wanted some and you nodded..."

Jennifer bit her lip, "Oh... I must have not heard you right... I really shouldn't..."

John scoffed, "We all know Jenny can't hold her liquor. Isn't that right Jenny?

Just like that time at your cousin's wedding when..."

Her nostrils flared as she stared at him coldly, determinedly taking a jeger bomb and downing it. 

He grinned at her and raised an eyebrow, "So you got one down. You done for the night?"

Wordlessly, she reached for more, and more, watching his face go from gloating to grim.

"That's enough Jenny. You won't be able to drive home."

Her words were slurring already, and she picked up another one, "It's Jennifer, Tate. Don't tell me what to do."

"Jennifer. Don't make me take you home."

"You can't do anything to me." Her nostrils flared again, but those fiery eyes were glassy. "Even if you are my boss. I'm not at work. So fuck you."

***************

John:

John sighed and looked questioningly at Mike, who said, "I'll do whatever you need to get her home."

John nodded and turned to Heather, who seemed unaffected by the alcohol, "It was very nice to sit and talk to you tonight, but I've got to get her home. Did you ride together?"

"No, we met here. Do you need any help?"

"No I think Mike and I got it. Thank you though."

Heather eyed Mike coyly and bit her lip, "Hey Mike... Here's my number.. If you want it I mean."

Mike grinned and took the paper she handed him, nodding, "No problem honey. Trust me, I want it."

Heather left, and John sighed, standing to help a protesting Jennifer.

"I don't neeeed help. I can drive!" She jerked from his grasp. He easily overpowered her and proceeded to drag her to his car. He fished her keys out of her pocket and threw them to Mike.

"I'll drive her, you follow me in her car to her house."

"You gonna stay there with her," Mike grinned at him

"Why? Should I....?"

"She throws up. A lot. Her college days...be prepared to hold her hair."

John smirked and nodded, still dragging a complaining, and very drunk Jennifer and trying to shove her as gently as possible into his car. 

Though it was only a ten minute drive to her house, it seemed like hours as she cursed and slurred and moaned and groaned and just would not shut up. Finally, they reached her house, and she finally seemed willing to accept his help as he pulled her out of the car. 

She stumbled into him on the way to her door, and he caught her, whispering, "Do you need me to carry you?"

She looked at him, seemingly miserable, and mumbled, "I don't feel good John." 

He easily picked her up as she wrapped her arms around him, and giggled, "You're really strong."

Mike ran up next to him and handed him her keys, whispering, "Good luck buddy. You'll need it."

He laughed and sighed, shaking his head, getting her inside the house. He laid her on the couch and put a trash can next to her, just in case.

Sitting on the love seat opposite of her, he turned on the tv and set it to a low volume, soon realizing she was staring at him. 

"...What...?"

"You're really sexy. Have I ever told you that you're really sexy? You are."

John bursted out laughing, and laughed even harder when he saw her look of confusion, "You're not so bad yourself Jennifer," he said when he'd finally calmed down. 

She stood, shakily, and crossed over to him, sitting in his lap and straddling him. "John....I think I kinda like you."

He laughed again, a little unsure this time, and mumbled into her neck, "I thought you hated me." 

She pulled back and thought about that for a bit and nodded, "Yeah, I do. But I kinda like you too. A lot. Maybe." 

Before he could respond, her lips were formed to his, her tongue searching for his, and finding it quickly. He felt her mold to him, her body feeling so good against his... but this was so wrong. He couldn't do this to her. Not when she was so very drunk.

He groaned into her mouth, gently pushing her away, "Jennifer...I can't do this to you.. Not when you're drunk"

She frowned and pouted, "I'm not drunk. Please? I really need you John..." She traced his chest with her fingers, moving her hips against his, feeling him harden underneath her. He wanted her so bad, but the slur of her words made him feel even more guilty for just thinking about it.

"Jennifer... No.. I can't."

She kissed him desperately, breathing hard against him and moaning in between kisses, "Please John... Please. I'll do anything for you. I'll even stop being mean to you. Maybe. Please?" Her moans became throaty and sultry, "Please John. Please fuck me. I know you want to. I can feel it."

He sighed, and carried her to her bedroom, laying her down softly, her pleas still ringing close to his ear, her breath hot, and her words hotter. He wanted her so badly, but he knew he couldn't take her.

He kissed her, sucking her tongue into his mouth, devouring her as she clutched his strong arms trying to pull his body closer. His kisses moved to her neck, sucking and licking his way across her shoulder, then to her other shoulder, and down her chest. 

She moved him away for what seemed like milliseconds to undress herself, practically tearing her clothes off. She then reached for his, but he went back to his journey before her hands could tear his clothes off.

He reached the incline of her breast, his touches turning feather-light, brushing across both of her breasts with small kisses and licks. She began to push his head down, making small gaspy noises and moans. 

He sucked on her delicious breasts, feeling his desire grow. God, he wasn't sure if he could take this with her succulent body writhing under him. He nibbled her tender flesh, and she jerked under him sighing his name. 

He finally reached the center of her breast, taking it into his mouth and sucking and nibbling lightly first on one, then the other. 

"Fuuuuck John.. That's... good... mmmmmm."

He moved past her breasts and down her creamy stomach, her skin feeling so soft against his lips. He felt her curves move inward to her sex, and decided to make her wait a little longer for her release. He moved to her thighs, hearing her protest, "Joooohhn...please!"

Her protest blended into unintelligible moans and sighs as he sucked her flesh and nibbled her thighs that were beginning to get slick with her juices. She grabbed a fistful of his hair trying to pull him up to where she really needed him, and he soon obliged, feeling that she'd had enough torture.

He felt her slick folds under his lips, moaning at the scent of her. She smelled so damn sexy he could barely think. He licked around her pussy lips feeling her buck slightly underneath him. He held her still with one hand, and with his other hand opened her lips, moving his fingers all around her. Sliding one finger into her hot, wet center, he licked around her lips tasting her sweetness. 

She lurched as his tongue came it contact with her, her slurred curses blending into each other. He kept slowly pumping into her with one finger, then licked around her aching clit as he slid another into her, her hips moving against him. 

He felt his own sex aching, pulsing with need for attention. He prayed he could make it through this without taking advantage of her. Even if she didn't remember, he'd hate himself. 

He tried to hurry now, feeling his own need grow. He sucked her clit and pumped his fingers into her faster, her moans only adding fuel to his fire. Soon her hands were digging into his arms, and she lifted against him screaming louder than ever before a chorus of his name along with her favorite curses. 

Finally, after what seemed like ages, she fell back to the bed, her thighs quivering as her curses turned into whimpers. He moved back up to her and affectionately stroked her hair, and kissed her lips softly. 

Her breathing began to even out, so he kissed her on the cheek and murmured, "Good night, Jenny."

She barely whispered back, "Jennifer...." as she fell asleep.

***************

Jennifer:

Jennifer woke up in the middle of the night feeling more nauseated than ever before. She rolled off her bed and stumbled into the bathroom, her stomach feeling like it was on fire. 

She began to vomit, tears coming as she tried to breathe. She absolutely hated getting sick. It was so painful, and she always felt like she would never be able to get her breath back. 

She stopped, beginning to feel better, but soon the sickness returned, wrenching through her entire body. She suddenly felt a hand on her back, soothing her, and another pulling the hair out of her face. John.... She waved her hand at him, trying to tell him to go away, but he wasn't having it. He stayed with her, to her embarrassment, and held her hair until she was sure she was better. 

He then waited for her to wash her mouth and brush her teeth, then carried her back to the bed and laid her down, setting a trash can next to her bed before going back to the couch he'd stayed on all night. 

She watched him leave her room, and wanted to ask him to stay with her, but couldn't find her voice before she fell asleep again. 

The Next Morning:

She woke up with a start. It was 11 a.m., and her head was screaming at her. She moaned and took some of the medicine John had laid on her bedside table... John...

She checked to see if he was still with her, and he was. His big body crammed on her couch couldn't have been comfortable all night long, but he was somehow still asleep.

Getting sick last night had Jennifer feeling gross, so she turned the shower on and jumped into the scalding water. As she washed herself, she started noticing different marks on her skin, small bruises on her thighs that looked like.... were those hickeys? 

She began to examine herself, finding all different kinds of marks, and suddenly her skin warmed as she remembered the night before. John's hot mouth moving all over her, just because she begged him to. She knew he wanted more, but he wouldn't sleep with her while she was drunk......

Then him staying with her through the vomiting.... Boy did she owe him. 

She finished her shower and dressed, finding him still asleep when all was done. She didn't feel so hot, but he'd been...amazing last night. And she wanted to show him her thanks. 

She pulled back the quilt he'd found in her hall closet, and found him only in boxers. Just looking at his body had her hot. She softly got on the couch with him, avoiding putting any weight on him, and moved her head between his muscular legs.

What he was dreaming about, she didn't know, but he was already hard when she fished his throbbing member out of his boxers. She licked lightly along his shaft, her hands wrapping around his thickness. He stirred a little, but wasn't awake. 

Smiling, she took the head of his cock into her hot, wet mouth. Something about a hard cock in her mouth had always turned her on. And John's... Oooh it was delicious. He stirred again as she sucked his head, and began to wake up as she slid her head halfway down his shaft. 

Suddenly, hands were tangled in her hair, and his voice was ragged as he moaned, "Jennifer.. oooohhh yeah.." 

She smiled around his cock, licking around him as she came up, then down, then uuup, then doown....

Pulling him out of her mouth, she licked all the way down his shaft again to his smooth balls. He gasped as her tongue made contact, pulling her hair a little. She played with them lightly, then moved back up to his cock, but leaving her hand to play with his balls.

She took him in her mouth again, sucking and licking all the way down him. She felt him hit the back of her throat, making her gag, but she relaxed herself, and took him further yet, feeling him deep in her throat. 




Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 03



This was enough for him, and he groaned, his voice straining, "Jen... I'm... I'm cumming... Ooohhh God Jen, yes.. mmmmmm.." 

His cum shot into her throat, and she swallowed, feeling him writhe a little under her, his hands pulling harder on her hair.

Finally she felt him relax, and looked up at him from in between his legs, smiling at him. He looked down at her, still breathing heavily, but grinning from ear to ear. He pulled her up to him, and kissed her, their breathing soon becoming ragged.

She pushed him away though, murmuring, "No John... I... I did that because I wanted to repay you.. Not because I wanted something.."

He kissed down into her neck and moaned, "But I want something.. I want more of you Jen."

She laughed and pulled away again and shrugged, "Well, it's Saturday and I have errands to run... But... if you wanted to stay with me today... we could see about getting more... later..." He smiled up at her, then hurried to put his clothes on.

As they were headed out the door, she jumped, "Oh!" 

He looked at her a while and finally said, "What....?"

"Fuck you, Tate."

"What..." He stumbled, "What was that for? I didn't even..."

"I just haven't said it yet today," She grinned up at him.

"Oh...well in that case... Please do Jenny."

"I just might."

*

To be continued. 

Please comment and let me know what you think.



Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 04



For the prequels to this story, please see Frenemies With Benefits chapters 1-3

*

John:

He was beginning to wonder if life could get any better. The last several weeks had been the most incredible weeks of his life. After he'd stayed the night with Jennifer the first time, they hadn't spent much time apart, her always being at his place or vice versa. They both had keys to the other's home, so it was never a surprise to walk in and see her making herself at home. It actually felt really good to him. He'd never felt so good.. so comfortable with someone. 

They still fought, whether it be playful banter, or serious anger, but it usually resulted in amazing, heated sex. Jennifer had even gotten used to being called Jenny. It'd almost turned into a term of endearment. 

It'd only been a few weeks, but he felt a real connection with a woman for the first time in his life. He saw in Jennifer someone he could spend his life with, which was no small thing for him. 

He couldn't help but feel her hesitation, though. He knew about Shane, a guy she'd been pretty serious about a while back. Apparently it ended pretty badly, but he also knew that their relationship was more than a fling. It could be the real deal, if she'd let it be.

He walked into his house late, having just come from work, to see Jennifer dancing to the music coming from her ipod around the kitchen as she cooked up something that was smelling amazing. He smiled and sneaked up behind her, quickly wrapping his arms around her. She jumped, then turned her head for a quick kiss.

A quick kiss wasn't enough for John, though. He held onto her tightly, and pulled her back to him kissing her deeply, feeling her tongue dance in his mouth. He quickly began to harden against her ass, and she broke the kiss and giggled, "Not now John! I'm trying to cook! You're gonna make me burn something." 

She moved away from him, but he quickly caught her hips in his hands again, moving his head down to kiss across her shoulders and neck. He mumbled against her sweet smelling skin, "But I'm hungry for something other than food..."

She smiled and turned to kiss him deeply before whispering into his ear, "If you'll be good, let me finish cooking, and eat like the growing boy you are, I promise you'll be greatly rewarded..."

He moaned as her breath heated his ear and nodded, moving a safe distance away from her before he ravaged her right there. 

She continued to dance and cook, the spices beginning to smell like Mexican food. Mmmmm. She must have known how much he loved Mexican food. Then again, she had to since he dragged her to Mexican restaurants allll the time. 

Finally, the food was finished, and he was devouring it. He had to admit, she was a pretty good cook. Way better than he'd expected, and he was feeling a little sluggish, completely content with just spending an evening with her.... He was up for anything else she had in mind too, though.

***************

Jennifer:

Soon, they were snuggled on the couch watching T.V., bickering over what channel to have on. 

"John I hate this show! Ugh, pleeeaaase change it! There has to be one thing on T.V. we can watch together and simultaneously enjoy."

He sighed rolling his eyes, "You've been watching your shows since before I got home! Let me watch this!"

A new episode of "Criminal Minds" came on, and she made a show of gagging. "These shows are so gross. All gory and creepy. Let's change it. 'What Not to Wear' is doing re-runs..."

"I am NOT watching another one of your girly shows. Just let me watch one more... Besides I figured you'd be into the gore."

"John they aren't girly they're informative. Just give me the remote!"

"No. My house. My T.V. My remote. My show."

"Ass hole. I cooked for you. I don't even like Mexican food."

John laughed and shook her off as she tried to grab the remote, "I told you Jenny. I'm watching my show."

"Ugh. Fuck you, Tate."

"Mmmmm. Please do, Jenny."

She dramatically rolled her eyes, then greedily eyed the remote.

She reached over him and tried to snag the remote out of his hand, but he had an iron grip on it. She practically laid in his lap trying to reach it, and soon the situation had obviously changed. 

He held her waist, and leaned down kissing her neck and upper back through her thin tank top. She giggled and rolled over onto her back, looking up at him through mischievous eyes, and that was all it took. 

His mouth came down onto hers in a split second, their tongues dancing in each other's mouths, and their breathing rapidly becoming heavier.

Jennifer began to squirm under him, her position not entirely comfortable. 

Breathing hard against her skin he whispered, "Bedroom?"

She nodded furiously, and with that he wrapped his arms around her and picked her up, carrying her to his bedroom. 

He set her down gently, kissing her again, and reaching to take off her clothes, but she stopped him. He pulled away, confused as he watched her walk away, and soon return with two silk scarves.

Tip-toeing, she whispered into his ear, "Do you trust me?" She then licked his ear and sucked his earlobe into her mouth, her breath hot on him.

He groaned and nodded, seeming a little unsure, but willing.

She first blindfolded him, taking care in being gentle as she pulled the scarf tight around his head. As he was still standing up, she began to undress him, her nails lightly going over his skin as each inch became uncovered. 

First his tie, which was already hanging loosely off his neck, came off, then his half buttoned dress shirt. She ran her hands underneath his undershirt, softly caressing his stomach and chest, then removing the shirt completely as John was obedient and still under her hands. 

She then kissed him with deep passion, moving every kiss lower and lower... Down his neck and to his chest, she could feel his breathing become ragged as she got to his stomach, licking and kissing as she went along. 

Getting on her knees, she began to unbuckle his belt as she kissed and licked the naked flesh above his pants. Ever so slowly, she unbuttoned and unzipped, and pulled his pants and boxers down together. He stepped out of them, his hard cock standing at attention, and his chest rising and falling from his heavy breaths. 

She lightly kissed the head of his swollen member, then just barely took it into her mouth before standing back up.

"Jennifer..." He groaned, his hips moving forward searching for her. 

She reached to his ear again, her whispers turning husky, "I told you you'd be rewarded for letting me cook... But you didn't let me watch my show. For that, there will have to be a lengthy process before you're allowed your reward. I need to make sure you reeaally..." She reached down to squeeze his shaft, "really deserve it."

The only reply she got was a groan, bringing a smile to her lips as she led him to the bed. He sat, and she moved him so he'd lay down flat on his back. Pulling his arms over his head, she tied them to the middle bed post as he made a protesting whine. 

Leaning down to him, she kissed him again and murmured, "Don't go anywhere."

She undressed quickly, then climbed into the bed with him, watching his head turn in her direction as he felt her entrance. She kissed his jaw, moving her kisses along his jawline as he moved his head to feel her kisses on his lips. She moved further away from him, kissing down to his shoulders and down the curve of his biceps and forearms. 

As her mouth worked him, her hand moved down to his cock, wrapping around him and slowly pumping him. Her other hand moved to play with his balls, gently squeezing the way she knew he liked.

She moved her kisses to his chest, taking his nipple into her mouth, playing with it the way she liked to be played with. He gasped at the unexpected touch, and she quickened her movements on his shaft, rubbing the head with her thumb as she pumped him. 

She felt his balls draw up, and new he was close, so she pulled away, suddenly moving back up to kiss his mouth. 

He grunted into her mouth and groaned, "Jennifer please..."

"Mmmm please what baby?"

"I...just fuck me Jen.. I need to feel you.."

"Sorry," she breathed in between kisses, "I just can't do that yet."

"Whhyy...?"

"You haven't said the magic words."

"I.. I said please.."

"Those are noooot my magic words." She grinned against his lips and grabbed his shaft again, suddenly leaving his lips to move down to his hardness. 

She took his head into her mouth, swirling her tongue around him while tugging on his balls with her hand. Suddenly, she took all of him into her hot mouth, moving his throbbing cock as deep into her throat as she could. He gasped and lurched under her. She felt him draw up again, so she popped him out of his mouth, and began kissing his stomach.

"You are one evil bitch," He groaned.

She grinned against his skin and mumbled, "Those certainly aren't the magic words."

"Jeeennnn...Ugh I will never, ever deny you the remote again."

Suddenly, she climbed atop him, and impaled herself onto him, her hot, creamy center enveloping him. 

He gasped, breathing a loud, "Fuuuuuuck Jen.."

She leaned down kissing him again, and murmured, "Those were the magic words."

Moans erupted from both of them as they finally received the pleasure they needed. She rode him slowly, leaning back as she shook her hair out of her face. John recognized the feel of the gesture, and moaned, "Ooh Jen... let me see you.. please?"

She leaned forward to lift his blindfold from his face, and he groaned as she came into view, her nipples taught and standing at attention, swaying before him as she bounced on him. 

With his hands still bound, he could only watch, and when she reached down to play with her clit, he nearly lost it. He held on for her, but thank God soon he could feel the familiar tightening of her delicious cunt around him as she began to climax. 

"Oooh fuuck John... Aaahh I... I'm cumming... Oooh Jooohn.. yeess..."

And with that, he let go with her, losing himself in her... her smell, the sight of her, her lust filled fire eyes that bore into him... it overwhelmed him as he gasped her name and shot deep into her.

As they came down together, she collapsed on him, breathing heavy and making small whimpers in her afterglow. 

He shifted under her, and she looked up then gasped, "Oh John, I'm sorry." She quickly moved to untie him from the bedpost, and was very happy to have his arms around her again as they fell asleep tangled together.

***************

John: 

He was now absolutely convinced. Jennifer Brandon was the woman of his dreams. She had to be. 

He watched her sleeping as he got ready for work early for a meeting that day, all curled up and naked, her creamy skin looking so tempting this early morning. He couldn't indulge today, however. The meeting was to go over his design he'd sent out a couple months ago. The one Jennifer had helped him with, in fact. 

He leaned down to kiss her cheek, and whisper into her ear, "I'm leaving early Jenny. I have your alarm set."

She mumbled something unintelligible, but he knew it was just her sleep talk. He quietly slipped out the door, and headed to his meeting with a hopeful spirit. This could get him promoted, if he played his cards right, and he wanted to make a good future for himself, and hopefully, for Jennifer, too.

Two Hours Later:

He did, in fact, play his cards right. His and Jennifer's design was a hit, and they were looking at him for a general manager position. It was only one step higher than where he was at, but he was willing to take anything.

He kept sending Jennifer smiles across the office as his spirits lifted all day. He called her cubicle extension and she picked it up, "Jennifer Brandon, how can I help you?"

"Here's how I want you to help me. Go to your house after work, and get all dressed up. I'm taking you out tonight."

"Oooh," she glanced to him through his office windows and smiled, "What's the occasion?"

"It's a surprise. Just do as I say, get your sexy self all dolled up, and I'll pick you up at 7:30."

"Sound like a plan, sir," she winked at him, and he laughed hanging up the phone. Tonight was going to be amazing.

***************

Jennifer:

She was freaking out. After she hung up the phone with John, she flew to Heather's cubicle and burst into whisper/screaming, "He's going to propose! Oh my God, Heather, he' going to propose!"

Heather had finally put the relationship together after the night at the bar, and at this moment was jumping up and down, "Noooo way! Oh my God!"

They squealed for a few minutes, but Heather soon came crashing down, "Look, Jen, I know you like him a lot...but marriage? Don't you think it's a little soon? You've only really been together for, like, a month..."

Jennifer, being the level headed person she was, came down too, "I know, I had thought of that too. I mean, maybe he's not proposing... But if he were, it'd have to be a long engagement. We have known each other our whole lives, but still, we've only been together a short time... You're right. I honestly don't know what to think..." She glanced back into John's office, watching him work ever so studiously, "Oh who the hell am I kidding. I totally will say yes."

They started giggling again, and Jennifer left her friend to pretend to work for the next few hours until she could leave.

When the clock finally hit five, she flew out of the office without even telling John bye. She ran to her car and drove like a mad woman home. It wasn't so much that she wanted the entire two hours to get ready, she was just so psyched she couldn't sit still. 

She knew exactly what she'd wear. She had a teal colored dress that accentuated all the right places, and looked lovely on her pale creamy skin. She did her hair up and had on her usual make up, and though she didn't look much different than most days, she felt amazing. Maybe it was the anticipation that had her glowing, but she literally felt like a million bucks. 

Finally 7:30 rolled around, and right on the dot she heard a knock at the door. She apprehensively opened the door, and he was completely enraptured by her. She knew before that she looked good, but at this moment, the way he was looking at her, she felt like the only woman in the world. 

***************

John:

There wasn't a woman in the world that could even come close to comparing to Jennifer tonight. She was stunning...glowing almost. It was like she knew this night was going to be as special as he did.

He took her to one of the nicest restaurants in town where he made her get everything he knew she liked. It didn't matter the price. Tonight he was treating her. It was going to be memorable. 

Yes, he was going to tell her about the promotion. But he was also planning on proposing. He had a wedding ring set his grandmother had given him upon her death that she wanted him to give to his dream girl. And here she was, sitting right in front of him, looking more breathtaking than anything he'd ever imagined. 

Yes, it'd only been a few weeks, but John was no rash man. He knew what he wanted, and when he wanted something, he got it, and stuck with it. He wanted Jennifer. Maybe it was too soon, but if it was, she'd let him know, and he would wait. He could wait forever for her. 

"So," Jennifer interrupted his wandering thoughts, "What is the special occasion tonight?"

"Well, first of all, I think I might be getting a promotion." 

First her face sort of fell, but then it lifted right back up, and her eyes widened, "Oh John! That's great! How? What happened?"

"Well, in my meeting this morning, we were going over the design that I turned in a few weeks ago, and they loved it! They want to move me up to general manager!"

She paused a second, her face frozen, "You mean... the design we worked on together? The one I helped you with?"

"Well, yes. That's the one."

"Did... did you tell them I had a hand in it...?" 

His heart stopped. Her face looked...different. Like it did...before. "No...I... I told them I worked on it... but I knew I wouldn't get a promotion if I didn't.. I thought it was the only way to... play my cards right... You know... For us, baby. I want to have a good future... for us.."

"You mean you took credit. You took my ideas and... kept them for yourself? John... How could you?" Suddenly there were tears... Jennifer never, ever cried. There aren't supposed to be tears... not sad ones anyway... What was happening to his evening? 

"Jenny... I just... I thought if I could get this promotion it would sort of set things in motion for us..."

"John... I... I have to go," She got up, leaving him, deserting the table and his now dashed hopes. What had just happened? He honestly couldn't understand why she couldn't understand. He'd done what he'd done for them... both of them..

While he sat there for a moment, stunned, he soon gathered his wits and followed her outside. It was rainy and cold, and very befitting for the way this dinner had turned out.

"Jennifer! Jennifer, come back..."

"Just leave me alone John."

"Just tell me what I did wrong! I don't understand..."

"John you know how much I've always wanted to work here! How I love what I do, and how good I am at my job! You KNOW those things! You stole your position from under me the first time, and that hurt bad enough... But... Now... You've done it again when it means so much more. I don't want to sit at a cubicle for the rest of my life, John! I deserve better than that! And you lied! You lied to get ahead! You took something from me and passed it off as your own... didn't even give me credit... I... I can't believe you would do something like that!"

"Jenny I did it for us!" 

He stumbled into the rain as she threw a taxi door open, she turned, soaking wet, her eyes beginning to well up, "Fuck you, John Tate."

And for once, as the rain came down harder and harder on him and he watched her drive away, he didn't reply.

*

To be continued. 

Please comment and tell me what you think.



Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 05



For the prequels to this story, please see Frenemies With Benefits chapters 1-4



John:

 A wreck. A complete emotional wreck. John couldn't think straight to save his life the last two weeks. Without her anymore, he was useless.

 Just over the weeks she was with him, he'd gotten so used to her sounds and smells that without her he felt like his house echoed. 

 He still couldn't understand what he'd done. Yes, he hadn't mentioned that she was the brain behind some of the work on that project, but for the most part, it was his idea. It was his basic outline. She just added to it and corrected it. Well, actually, not even that. She told him what to add and correct, and he did... They were her ideas though. He really should have at least mentioned her. 

 He glanced at his cell phone again to see if maybe she'd called or texted him. Ooof course she didn't. He'd called millions of times, left million's of messages... He'd even driven to her house one night in desperation, but she hadn't been home, and that bothered him even more. It had been late...so where had she been? 

 He sighed as he glanced at the clock. He was supposed to meet Mike again for drinks tonight, but he just wasn't sure if he was up to it. He picked up the phone again, first checking for any missed calls, then dialing Mike's number.

 "You better not be skipping out on me," was Mike's charming answer.

 "I just don't know if I'm up for being out tonight Mike," John's voice was gravelly and tired with just a hint of depression. 

 "You don't sound like yourself John. You ok?"

 "Yeah, yeah I'm fine. Just not feeling like being out on the town and stuff."

 "Yeah, sure, that's cool. If... If you and Jen don't have plans, maybe I could just chill at your place with you and we can watch some ball or something..."

 "No... no Jennifer and I don't have plans," but oh how he wished they did. "Yeah, go ahead and come over if you want."

 Mike wasn't exactly the company he wanted right now, but it was better than being alone. He sat on the couch, waiting for his friends arrival as he turned on the T.V., trying to find something worth watching, and his mind moved back to having Jennifer's body close to his on this very couch, struggling over who got to watch what. He sighed and turned the T.V. off. Mike could pick a channel when he got there.

 And soon, Mike was there. He walked in and they greeted each other, Mike making himself at home. He sat next to John, studying him intently while John focused on the blank T.V., knowing the questions would soon be coming.

 After a few moments of silence, Mike asked, "So... Where is Jen tonight? I figured she'd be here."

 "No.. I don't know where she is."

 Mike nodded and looked down, "Fight? Did you break up?"

 John sighed, knowing at some point his friend would get the whole truth out of him. He might as well spill the beans. "She got mad at me a few weeks ago. I.. I basically stole some of her ideas and passed them off as mine for a promotion. I wasn't trying to hurt her... I just figured things could really get going for us if I got that promotion..."

 "And why did you think that? Both of you are very independent. You have good jobs. You make good money. Heck you two could have moved in together, sold one of the houses, and been just fine without any kind of promotion for either of you.."

 "I... I didn't really think of it that way, but even so.. I wanted to prove to her that..."

 "That what? That you're better than her?" Mike interrupted him.

 "What? No! That's not what I meant, I just..."

 "That's what she thinks, John. That's what she's always thought. You've always had everything she's ever wanted, and she can never gain a mile."

 "What? No, no, no. She has always acted like she's better than me! That's why I feel the need to prove myself to her.. to prove I'm good at what I do."

 "By taking her ideas and getting promoted by them?"

 John was silent at that point. Never in his life had he felt like such an ass. This really had been about him. Not "us" as he'd said. God, he was such a selfish ass hole. 

 He hung his head in defeat, and Mike sighed. "John, you've always had everything Jennifer ever wanted from the very beginning. The affection of our parents, the recognition... The very job you have was one she'd set her eyes on for years, and after all the work she'd put into getting it, after feeling so sure that she was good enough to have it, you waltzed in without a single preparation and took it. How was she supposed to feel when she realized you, again, stole her thunder? She's good, John, and you know it. She deserves a better position than the one she has."

 The affection of her parents... John's jaw fell slack. He'd never even suspected that his relationship with her parents had affected her that way. Everything sort of fell into place in that moment, but Mike continued on his rant about how horrible John had been to Jennifer throughout the years.

 "Ok, ok, Mike I got it. Can you stop making me feel so shitty?"

 Mike laughed and shrugged, "So what are you going to do about it?"

 "I have absolutely no idea."

 "Well.. here's a thought. You somehow fix whatever you can at your job. Get her a raise. Get her promoted... something. She deserves it, you know. But the part I can help with is dinner," Mike wiggled his eyebrows at his friend.

 "Dinner? How the hell am I gonna get Jennifer back by eating dinner with you?"

 "Not with just me. With my parents, and me... and Jennifer. Jen and I are supposed to go to my parents' next Friday night at 7:00. I can ask my mom if you can come, which of course she'll say yes to, and we can agree to not tell Jennifer because she's never liked you anyway, so mom won't know the difference."

 John was quiet for a while, then he smiled at Mike, "And that is why we're best friends."

 "Why? Because in the end with your snooty college degrees and big money, I am still smarter than both you, and my little sister?"

 John just laughed and nodded, "Yeah, man, that's it."

 For the first time that night, John took a good look at Mike. He looked cleaned up. Shaven, rested, and clear eyes told him something had changed since the last time he'd seen his friend.

 "So, enough of my problems, what have you been up to lately?" John asked, fishing for the cause of the transformation.

 "Things have been looking up. I've had tons of interviews. No calls back, yet, but I'm hopeful for one.. And I've been kind of seeing Heather."

 "Heather... Heather from Toby's, Heather?"

 Mike smiled and nodded, "Yeah that's the one. I really like her a lot, John."

 "Good, man. I'm glad you've met someone like her."

 John sincerely meant that. Heather was a sweet girl. A little shy, but still sweet. Mike's past relationships consisted of women who weren't sweet at all. They hadn't all been a certain type, necessarily, but they'd always been wrong for him. If it took a girl for Mike to get his act together, John was pretty sure Heather could be the one to do it.

 They spent the rest of the night catching up, sharing a few drinks and laughing, but John just couldn't shake the anxiety of knowing what he was about to do for the love of his life.

***************

Jennifer:

  It like she was so tired these days. The last few weeks she just hadn't felt motivated to do anything. She was sluggish, worn out, and... sad. She missed...

 No. She did not miss John Tate. She avoided him at work, ignored him outside of work, and worked harder than ever before to not think of him. She did not miss him.

 She sighed as she pulled into her parking spot at work. Another day, another dollar. She walked in, completely avoiding even looking in John's direction, and went straight to her cubicle. Maybe it was trying so hard to avoid him that was tiring her. She just didn't have any energy. 

 Not more than two minutes after she sat down, her phone rang. It was John. Of course. She debated on picking up the phone, but since they were at work, she figured it probably was professional.

 "Jennifer Brandon, how may I help you?"

 "Jennifer, this is John. You're wanted in Mr. Alston's office in an hour."

 "Mr. Alston?" Mr. Alston was the big boss. The top dog. Well, not completely, but he was sort of over most things that go on. Advertising, media, accounting, etc. "What does he want with me? Am I in trouble," she asked apprehensively. 

 "I don't know, honestly. I was just told to tell you."

 "Ok. Thank you." 

 Her stomach tightened up and she felt sick. This was either a very good thing, or a very bad thing. She didn't think she'd done anything to screw up, lately... Maybe she was just getting laid off... They needed to get rid of someone, and it would be her..

 She chided herself, trying to calm down. She tried telling herself not to be irrational. She'd done a good job for this company. There was no reason for her to be fired.

 She watched the clock anxiously as it moved slower than ever before. Finally, it was her time and she made her way to Alston's office. 

 His secretary let her in, and he smiled at her, "Ms. Brandon, it's a pleasure to see you. Have a seat."

 She smiled nervously and sat down. This was why she hadn't gotten John's job. She had no interview skills whatsoever. She was such a nervous wreck that she'd seemed frazzled and underprepared, when really she'd never prepared more for something in her life.

 "I'm sure you're wondering why I've called you here today," Alston smiled up at her again before looking back to his computer. From where she sat, she could see his screen, and it looked like designs from her portfolio pulled up on it.

 Realizing she hadn't answered his question, she quickly nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

 "We've been watching you closely since you started here, Ms. Brandon. I feel that you have a lot to offer this company. You're very dependable, and hard working."

 "Well...yes sir. I do have a lot to offer," she found her voice, "I'm very good at what I do.. I love my job."

 "Do you love your job too much to be promoted?"

 She nearly choked, and she didn't even have anything in her mouth. When she finally found her voice, she squeaked, "Promoted to what?"

 "The vacant general manager position. I think it would benefit us for the position to go to you." He smiled again, a very business like smile, waiting on her reply.

 Her brain stumbled. That was the position... "Mr. Alston... isn't that the position Jo...Mr. Tate was going to have?"

 "It's been decided that Mr. Tate is very good at the position he is currently involved in. This position seems to be best fitted for you."

 "I...I would love that, sir. Thank you so much for the opportunity."

 "Wonderful. You may go, and begin moving your things. You will have the vacant office next to mine. Feel free to ask Mrs. Peters, the secretary, for anything. She's your secretary now, too." 

 In a daze, she floated back to the main office, and went to her cubicle, slowly stacking her things. Heather came crashing in and whisper/screamed, "Oh my God, did you get fired?!"

 "No! I got promoted!"

 Heather's eyes popped and she quietly clapped her hands in celebration, "Oh Jennifer that's amazing! How?!"

 Jennifer, still bewildered, shook her head, "I still don't really know.."

 She thought back to the designs... her designs that had been on Mr. Alston's computer. That portfolio had just been for fun. It was completely separate from the one she'd given when she'd applied here. She had never even given them that portfolio.... 

 Things moved fast. She felt John's eyes on her as she moved to her new office. The office that was bigger than John's. She'd finally won. She beat John Tate at one damn thing in her life. 

 His eyes looked sad as she walked past him, and she smirked. Serves him right. He doesn't deserve any promotion after... 

 She still had a few more things to move. Her new office wasn't set up with a computer, so she'd have to move hers. She wasn't very physically strong, but she was sure she could manage. She was trying to haul the monitor. It wasn't so much how heavy it was, but it was awkward. Soon she felt stronger hands pulling it from her. 

 "John, I don't need your help."

 "I was just...I just thought it looked a little heavy for you."

 She thought back to a moment they'd had a few months ago and smiled, "I'm perfectly capable of handling this on my own Tate. Remember, I am the boss. You're free to leave."

 He stepped away dejectedly from her, and silently moved back to his office, gently closing the door.

 She felt a little sting there, but she'd had every right. After what he'd done...

 But if it was the right thing to say, why did she feel like such a bitch?

 She sighed, now feeling conflicted, and finished her move. It was Friday, so even with her promotion, and the exciting things that were happening, she was relieved to feel 5:00 come along. She wished everyone in her new office space a good weekend, and left. She was supposed to have dinner with her parents and Mike tonight, but she was so tired. She might cancel. 

  Picking up the phone, she dialed Mike's number, and heard the abrupt answer from him, "No, you're not canceling."

  "Mike, I'm so tired. It's been such a long week..."

 "And it's now the weekend. You can sleep in tomorrow, and do whatever the hell you want to do. You haven't seen Mom and Dad in forever. As a matter of fact, you haven't even talked to them. They miss you."

 "Well they could call me every now and then, too, if they miss me so badly. Communication is a two way street."

 "They know how busy you are. They don't like to bother you. Anyway, it really has been too long since you've seen them, and it's been too long since I've seen you. I miss you, too, you know. Sometimes anyway."

 "Ok, ok. I'll be there. Seven, right?"

 "You know it."

 "Ok. Oh hey Mike guess what?"

 "What's up?" She heard curiosity pique in his voice.

 "I got a promotion!"

 "No way, kiddo! That's awesome! I'm so proud of you!" Genuine happiness. God, Mike was so lovable sometimes. He really was a good brother.

 She laughed into the phone and made a playful groan, "Miiiike you know I hate 'kiddo.' Don't call me that."

 "Aw, it's good for you. Anyway I gotta run. I'm gonna meet Heather for coffee before tonight."

 "Aw, good. Have fun, and I'll see you later."

 As she hung up, she grinned. Who knew that her best friend and her big brother would end up having a little crush on each other? 

 Jennifer was so glad for the relationship they were beginning to have. None of Mike's old girlfriends were really good enough for him. Yeah, he was a college drop out, and at that moment, jobless, but he was such a wonderful guy. He deserved a girl like Heather.

 She got home and changed out of her work clothes into jeans and a sweater, glad to be more comfortable. Soon enough it was time to head to her parents' place. She sighed and grabbed her keys, heading out the door.

  She loved her parents, she really did. It just seemed that nothing was ever quite good enough for them. Her mother was sort of a meddler, and was always trying to interfere with her plans... her work... her life.

 That's why she'd never told her about John...when they were together. It would have been such a big deal if things hadn't ended well...and they hadn't. 

 Her dad was a gruff but loving man. He was also very critical. No matter what she did, he'd tell her in the most loving way how she could have done it better. 

 It was just such a headache to be around her parents, no matter how much she loved them. 

 On her way, she felt her phone buzz. Heather was calling. She sighed, debating on picking up the phone. Heather would surely try to get her to go out tonight, trying to "cheer" her up. She didn't need cheer. She needed space. 

 Picking up the phone against her own will, she put it to her ear. "Hello?"

 "Hey! Whatcha got planned for tonight?"

 "Oh, just dinner with my parents. You?"

 "I want to go dance, but no one will go with me! Wanna come after you leave your parents'?"

 "Oh... I don't know, Heather. It's been such a long week. I probably shouldn't."

 "That means you probably should!"

 Jennifer didn't answer, and Heather huffed, "Fine. I haven't seen you outside of work since... But whatever. Just go home and mope."

 "Heather... Come on, don't be like that. I'll go, ok? I'll text you when I leave."

 She could practically hear Heather's satisfied smile 

 She pulled into the driveway, and was soon walking in. The first thing she saw was the backside of, wouldn't you know it, John fucking Tate. Her mother came to hug her and, pulled back, smiling, "John came here with Mike! Isn't that wonderful Jennifer?"

 Oh yeah. It was just perfect.

***************

John:

 He saw her look of dismay, and that hurt his feelings more than anything. Right then and there, he almost left. Had it not been for Mr. and Mrs. Brandon, he would have. 

 But Mrs. Brandon was practically waiting on him hand and foot, and Mr. Brandon was in a deep conversation with him about his work. He couldn't leave.

 Mrs. Brandon was a short, round lady with short curly silver hair. She was possibly the sweetest, most loving person John had ever met. 

 Mr. Brandon was very tall and distinguished looking, a gruff voice, but tender eyes, and very intelligent. 

 He tried to seem enthralled by what Mr. Brandon was saying, but in his peripherals he was watching Jennifer. She moved to help Mrs. Brandon in the kitchen, setting the table, and adding the extra place setting for him. 

 Eventually, they sat down to eat, and it got quiet. Soon, Mrs. Brandon piped up, "So, Jennifer, how's work? How do you like working for John?"

 "I've never worked 'for John," mom. I work for the company. Besides, John isn't my boss anymore."

 "Ooh!" Mrs. Brandon turned to John, her eyes lighting up, "Did you get moved in the company? Do you have a new position? Do you like it better?"

 "Well, actually..." John started to answer, but was interrupted by Jennifer.

 "Why does it have to be John who has success? If you must know, I am the one with a changed job description."

 "...Aw Jennifer," her mom's eyes took on pity, "did you get fired?"

 "...What?! No! No, mom, I'm John's boss now. I got a promotion. Why is that so hard to imagine?!"

 Silence hit the table as the tension thickened. Mrs. Brandon blinked, the realization of her assumptions sinking into her.

 "Jennifer... I'm sorry. I didn't think..."

 "Why didn't you think? Why can't you think your own daughter is incredibly good at something? I have always been just as good as John! Honestly, in our line of work, I've always been better!"

 Mrs. Brandon began to tear up, and John muttered, "Jenny...."

 She turned, her eyes burning him down, and her nostrils flaring, "Don't you dare 'Jenny' me! You know damn well it's the truth."

 "That's enough, Jennifer!" Mr. Brandon finally spoke, his harsh voice bouncing off the walls of the small dining room. 

 "Oh, what?" Jennifer hissed, "is this the part where you tell me what a terrible daughter, and complete disappointment I am? No 'congratulations Jennifer,' or 'we're so proud of you?' Of course not. I don't know why the hell I ever expect anything different from you."

 She abruptly stood, and left the room, heading for the door. There was a violent slam, then complete silence. Mrs. Brandon started crying, making the tension awkward.

 Mike, who'd been intently watching the entire ordeal from his quiet corner at the table, stood to follow Jennifer. Everyone, including John, knew that Mike was the only one who could talk sense into her at this point.

 Mrs. Brandon, still at the table, sniffed and dabbed her eyes, "I just don't know what she wants me to say. I don't know what she wants from me."




Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 05



"I think," John started slowly, "she wants recognition. She's amazing at what she does, and she's so smart. She wants you to see her that way... Still, that was drastic, even for her."

 Mrs. Brandon's eyes were downcast, and Mr. Brandon spoke up, again, "I should have congratulated her... at least."

 Mike walked back in defeated and mumbled, "She left."

 They all sat still with grim faces. The conversation soon picked back up, but it wasn't entirely comfortable. 

 The sky began to darken, and John knew it was time for him to leave. He thanked the Brandon's for dinner, and said his goodbyes.

 When he got to Mike, Mike muttered, "I'm sorry, John. I didn't know she'd..."

 "It's ok. She'll come around when it's time. I think."

 He was supposed to meet his cousin, Lindsey, for drinks at this club she liked. Johm wasn't particularly a dancer, so he didn't frequent clubs. This one, however, had a nice atmosphere, and a great bar. He didn't mind going there for a few drinks.

 Upon walking into the club, he first spotted his cousin, and joined her. As he headed in her direction, he caught sight of soft, honey colored hair floating on the head of a scantily clad Jennifer. 

 He didn't know when she'd changed, or why, but she needed to change back. Her dress was so tight and small, it could almost pass for lingerie. If she so much as stepped outside like that, she'd die of pneumonia. It was fucking January for God's sake! What the fuck was she doing?!

 John's eyes soon moved to the man with her, and jealous insanity nearly took him over. Some good looking jack ass had his hands all over Jenny... HIS Jenny!

 He somehow tore his eyes away from the scene, and turned to his cousin, who had followed his eyes back to Jennifer.

 "You know her?" she inquired.

 "No. No I don't know her at all. I wish to God I did, though."

***************

Jennifer:

  So this guy was hot. Really, really hot. Six footish, sandy hair, blue eyes, strong body, great smile...

 And he'd pursued her. Flirted with her, danced with her, had his hands on her... Heather had left a while back after she'd told Jennifer to go for this hottie. Boy did she want him, too. She was going to hate to have to tell him she'd be leaving the club alone. She had too much shit going on to worry about a one night stand with a stranger... maybe...

 Feeling a stare on her back, she turned to see a very displeased looking John turn his head... to a pretty brunette. Holy shit! Who the hell was that?!

 Still dancing, she watched him smile as this mystery girl laid her pretty hand on his bulging bicep. 

 Oooohhh nooo she didn't. What did that whore think she...

 Jennifer stopped her galloping thoughts and shook her head. She couldn't possibly be jealous. No way. She, once again, hated John Tate. Hated, hated, hated....

 John threw his head back and laughed as the mystery girl went on and on with some story. 

 Yup. She was jealous. Very. 

 What was he doing there with her? How did he know her? Why hadn't he ever told Jennifer about this girl if he knew her before...?

 Rage boiled up inside her, and she turned, determinedly to her hot new friend... what was his name... Maybe Ben? Yeah... Ben...

 She grabbed him as the music picked up it's pace, and shifted her body to mold to his, rubbing and grinding in all the right places. She could feel his excitement growing, and she smiled as she threw her head back, trying to look like she was thoroughly enjoying herself. 

 Stealing a glance at John, she saw his fist tighten as he tried to pay attention to his girly friend, but was truly watching Jennifer. Oh victory. It's so good.

 Her new friend.. Ben.. was all handsy again, feeling her hips and ass as he began to grind against her. She could feel her own response between her legs, and new at this point she'd end up taking him home. While she did want to get some tonight with this hottie, she knew it'd drive John crazy to see her leave with him.

 She pulled Ben to the side. John was intently watching her, so she put on a smile, and a flirty arm on his bicep, "So it's Ben, right?

 "Well... Bryan, actually."

 Damn. At least she'd been close. Kinda.

 She saw John look away from her, so her face turned serious. 

 "Look, Bryan, really I don't need to know your name. All I need to know, is if you want to come home with me."

 "Well," he looked at her hopefully, "yeah..."

 Great, a master with words.

 "Protection?"

 "Got it covered...literally, haha."

 "Good. I'm gonna tell you now, I won't give you my number, and I don't want yours. This is a revenge fuck. That's all it is. You cool with that?" 

 She looked behind him toward John, and he followed her gaze, catching a glare from the angry ex. 

 Bryan turned back to her, a playful grin on his face, and leaned down to devour her lips. Their bodies molded together, and his kisses moved to her neck. He really was an extraordinary kisser. Almost as good as....

 He mumbled against your skin, "So we make him jealous here, and I get to fuck you later...?"

 She grinned, making eye contact with John as Bryan's kisses moved to her exposed shoulder. "Ooooohh yeah." 

 They danced, and made out like teenagers in dark corners all over the club, while John watched her with white knuckles, and clenched teeth. 

 Finally, Bryan pled against her lips, "Can I please take you home now? I'm going crazy over here."

 "I can feel it. Trust me, I'm completely ready to go home. You can drive your car and follow me. You'll leave when we're done."

 "Wow. You're really ballsy."

 "Let's just go."

  They left the club quickly, making sure they passed John's table as they stepped out the door. Bryan followed her home, and the second they stepped into the house, his lips were searching hers. 

 They were wild, clutching each other, their teasing throughout the night making them both crave each other. He roughly grabbed her, and took her into the dining room table. He lifted her onto the table, and her legs came around him, clutching him, her dress riding up on the bottom, and falling lower on the top. 

 He pushed the top down further, and sucked the top of one breast into his mouth and palming the other. The wetness between her legs was hot, and her sex was aching as his hand moved down to her.

 He pushed her lacy thong to the side, his finger entering her slowly, eliciting a sensual moan from her. Her hips moved forward, his other hand still palming her breast as his mouth explored her shoulder, neck, and chest.

 Teasing her, he swirled one finger in her, slipping so close to her aching clit. She cried out and began tugging upward on his shirt, moving her hands underneath it to feel his muscled chest. His chest wasn't like John's... It wasn't... so... masculine.

 She felt a twinge of guilt as she compared them. She knew she wanted John, but John by now was fucking a brunette. She had every right to do what she was doing. And she wanted it. 

 Ignoring her, he kept his slow pace on her cunt as she squirmed under him, smiling as she clutched his chest, hissing through her teeth, "If you don't fuck me senseless soon, I will implode. Just do it."

 Roughly, he stood her up from the table, and turned her around, leaning her over the table with her sexy ass to him. He leaned down into her ear as he pulled his cock out, and whispered, "How bad do you want it?"

 She squirmed against him, feeling him hard against her swollen lips, "Ooohh.. please... Bad.. I want it bad.."

 She gasped when the head of his thick member entered her. Ooh she was gonna be sore after this. John was pretty good sized, but...

 Bryan's lips searched her ear as he pushed further into her. It hurt, but oh it was good. In and out he moved, and she swirled her hips around, making him moan, his cock exploring every inch of her velvety center. She was so tight around him, and he was only swelling bigger. 

 All too soon, he lost it, shooting and moaning as he came, her need still unfulfilled. It would have happened for her, too, if...

 Bryan pulled away from her, and she felt empty, and slutty. The bad kind of slutty. More than slutty, she felt like a complete whore. If she'd had every right to do this... revenge fuck, would she still feel like this? 

 He left, not saying a word to her, and she sat feeling more lonely than she ever had before.

***************

John: 

  He was waiting for that fucking truck to leave. Call him a stalker, or whatever. He didn't much care at this point. If it was that guy from the club....

 The door opened, and the guy from the club walked out, got in his truck and left. Well, at least he wasn't spending the night. 

 John waited a few minutes, then went to her door, knocking softly. If he wasn't soft, he'd break the damn door down with his anger.

 Maybe he didn't have a right to be angry. He'd screwed up big time, and he knew that...but.. God she couldn't just go fuck another man. How could she do that? Did she even have a fucking soul? What the hell..

 The door opened, her eyes widened at the sight of him, and vice versa. She looked... terrible. For her anyway. Her hair was a mess, she looked like she'd been in the middle of crying, her dress was all out of place with one side hanging off her shoulder... Even as angry as he was, the first thing he'd thought was she looked like she'd been raped.

 "Are you ok?" he mumbled. He hated that he was even concerned, but dear God if he had raped her, John was going on a man hunt tonight. And every night. Until he found him.

 She wiped her eyes, and nodded, "Yeah.. Why are you here?"

 "Did you willingly sleep with him?" 

 She looked up at him, her face turning indignant, "It's really none of your business, but yeah, I did."

 His face crumpled, searching her eyes for answers, "How could you do that Jennifer? I.. I know you still... have feelings for me... you must... And I.. I can't stop thinking about you. My house... it's so empty without you... How could you just go.. do this.. knowing I'm not over you.. how I feel..."

 "Not over me? You looked pretty over me to me, John. Who was that girl anyway? And how dare you chastise me for this when we both know she probably just left your fucking house!"

 John was appalled and horrified. She looked a little scared when his eyes widened in a mixture of anger and hurt and rage and... so many other emotions. "Jennifer... that was my cousin.. my cousin Lindsey. I.. I would never do that to you.."

 Her mouth fell open for several silent seconds. You could almost feel the tension grow. She tried again to make her face hard and muttered, "John, I can do whatever the fuck I want. You never owned me, but you certainly don't now. You ruined things for us, not me. I haven't cheated on you. We aren't together anymore. You stole..."

 "I know, Jen, I know! I stole something that was yours. I know. But I tried my best to fix it, Jen! I got you that damn promotion. Didn't you wonder at all how Alston got your private portfolio? You left it at my house Jennifer! I gave it to him! I told him he needed to check your stuff out before he promoted me. I wanted him to be the judge. Let the best man win...and you did. I did that for you, Jennifer. Not just because I wanted you back, and I did, but because I was trying to fix what I'd done. Just for the sake of making you happy... And here we are, you're freshly fucked by another man, and I'm leaving with a broken heart."



***************

Jennifer:



 He walked away from her. Just left. Turned around with tears in his eyes, and left her standing in her doorway. 

 God she was such a fucking idiot. For all those times she thought she was so damn smart, she could kick herself. What had she done?

 His cousin, Lindsey. God, he really did have a cousin named Lindsey. He'd even shown her pictures. They were very close... How had she not recognized her?

 She sat on her couch, the room empty, cold, and silent. It didn't have to be like this. It wouldn't have been like this if it wasn't for her stupid-ass assumptions. 

 He'd gotten her a promotion...

 Fresh tears formed in her eyes, and she began to sob. There had to be some way to fix this..

 Jennifer didn't know if she could make it right or not, but one thing she did know. If she thought she'd felt lonely before, she'd had another thing coming.

 Questions formed around her head. What was to become of them? Could she make things up to him? Should they really be together? Could they? The immediate question on her mind was, how in the world can one sleep when they can't stop crying?

To be continued.

Please comment and tell me what you think



Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 06



For the prequels to this story, please see Frenemies With Benefits chapters 1-5

*

Jennifer:

John was quiet. He'd never, ever been the quiet type. And here he was, completely avoiding her every single day for the last month. He wasn't just avoiding her. He had hardly spoken anything outside of business conversation to anyone. She'd kept tabs. She'd watched him when given the opportunity. He never really spoke to anyone. God, what had she done?

Today was the day for quarterly performance reviews. And guess who had to interview John Tate? Why, she did, of course. She was shaking like a leaf, a complete and total nervous wreck. 

Knowing what she'd done... how she'd made him feel had completely wrecked her this last month. She'd cried and cried (and she was NOT a crier). She'd even gone to Mike, begging him to help her fix the situation. He'd done his best, trying to reason with his friend, but to no avail. John wasn't budging. At all.

Needless to say, it was going to be hard to sit in front of him, and be completely professional.

The reviews went quickly, and she even got to steal a not-so-business-like conversation with Heather. They whispered and wondered over John, and how he would react... if he would even say anything to her. 

All too soon, John walked into her office, his suit fitting him just right, his brooding face looking ever so sexy, and yet his eyes looked so, so very sad. She wasn't going to get through this alive.

"Good afternoon Mr. Tate," she stood to shake his hand. He denied the gesture, and simply sat down, staring at her blankly.

She cleared her throat and sat down, her hands starting to shake as she ruffled through some evaluations.

"Well, Mr. Tate, we have received very good word from your office staff that you have been a wonderful leader, are very efficient, and have wonderful work ethic.."

He nodded stiffly, and sat silently waiting for her to continue.

Again, clearing her throat, she felt her face heat up, and her words began to stumble. She tried her best to make it through the review, but messed up nearly every single word, never making clear eye contact, and her face was only getting darker. 

Finally, she stuttered, "In.. In conc-clusion, you will actually be.. um.. receiving a raise..."

Looking up to gauge his reaction, she saw him once again nod, and he mumbled, "Will that be all, Ms. Brandon?"

"No.. well.. Yes."

He stood slowly, and began walking toward the door when she gasped, "John..."

He turned only a little and said, "Don't you mean Mr. Tate?"

"No... John.. please don't leave."

"Do you need me for further review," his voice became strained.

"No.. I just.."

"Then I'm afraid I have work to do," his hand grasped the door knob, beginning to turn it.

"John.. come over tonight.. please? Let's just... talk.."

"I'm sorry, but I have a previous engagement. Goodbye Ms. Brandon."

She sat, nearly dumbfounded by his coldness. There had to be a way to fix this. Even if she didn't get him back, there had to be a way to show how sorry she was. 

She sighed when her mind pulled up nothing for her to do, and dejectedly went on to the next review.

***************

John:

That had been one of the hardest things he'd ever done. Ever. She looked... she was such a mess. Over him. Her eyes were sleepless, her hair undone, her face without make up, completely broke out... She was a mess. He hadn't really understood the effects of his aloofness.. 

But he couldn't go back. She'd hurt him.. so badly. What was to keep her from doing it again? Would she go out and fuck every single time they had a fight? Had she done that already?

Mike had tried to change John's mind several weeks ago. He'd said John couldn't expect her to not make mistakes, especially after how badly he'd messed up... But it was so different. John had never done anything to intentionally hurt her. That wasn't what he'd wanted at all. Yes, he'd been an ass, but never had he wanted to hurt her.

The way she'd looked at him that night in the club... Knowing he was going crazy watching her, seeing her with another man. She looked at him and knew she was hurting him, and did it anyways. How could she do that?

Though, she'd thought he was with another woman also. He couldn't really blame her for thinking that... still...

His cell phone buzzed, and he picked it up without a glance, "Hello?"

"John, this is Vanessa. I hope I'm not interrupting anything..."

Ooooh shit. He should have looked. "Oh hi. No, I'm not busy at the moment," even though that's not what he'd told Jennifer...

"Look... I was wondering if you wanted to meet up tonight. You know, Toby's or something. I... I miss you."

"Vanessa... I'm really in no position to be seeing another woman right now."

"Another? Are you seeing the girl that you... uh..."

"I was. A lot has... happened."

"Well, I promise, no strings. I just miss your company John. No worries, I won't be expecting anything."

"As long as you understand I have nothing to give, then I'll see you tonight at Toby's."

"Wow... she really did a number on you, eh?"

He paused for a long while, then mumbled, "I'll see you at seven."

***************

Jennifer: 

Heather met her at her car at closing time, a light, very cold rain beginning to fall. It was supposed to be rainy all day. Heather was smiling in one of those "I feel sorry for you, so I'm going to try to make you feel better" ways.

"Heeyyy," she called out as Jennifer neared the vehicle, "Mike and I are getting drinks tonight at Toby's. Wanna come?"

"No thanks. I don't wanna be a third wheel."

"Geeze Jen, we're not going on a date or to a movie or anything. It's just drinks. We want you to come."

"...Well.. ok. I haven't been out in a while. I probably need to go."

"Yeah... just don't get smashed like that one time..."

"Shut up, Heather."

Heather smiled, still looking a little concerned, and asked, "Well.. how did it go?"

"Think worst case scenario."

"Oohh," she sighed, "I'm sorry..."

"It's ok. I deserved it, I guess. I just need to move on, and get over it, I suppose."

"Well... maybe I can set you up! I have a brother, you know... and a few cousins..."

That brought a laugh from Jennifer, and she shook her head, "No, no, no. It'll be a while before I start looking. I think I'm just gonna... chill for a while you know?"

"I understand... you know, that's what I was doing when I met your brother. Sometimes destiny has a weird way of.."

"None of that, Heather. I don't even want to think about destiny. I've already had enough of fate."

Heather laughed, "Ok, ok. Just sayin. So tonight? Seven? Do you want us to pick you up?"

"Hmm... I don't know if I'll be drinking, so that's probably best. I'll see you there."

Time seemed to speed by before she was walking into Toby's with Heather and Mike. 

Mike and Heather ordered when Mike asked a dazed Jennifer, "Whatcha wanna drink, kiddo," Mike smiled at his endearment as the waitress waited for her order.

She faked a stern glance and growled, "No kiddo," smiling she added, "I'm good with a margarita right now," the waitress nodded, and left, and Jennifer smiled at her brother, "So how are you guys?"

Mike, of course, threw a glance at Heather and chuckled, "We're doin' pretty good. How are you doing? I know the last few weeks haven't been easy for you..."

"I'm fine, Mike. Really. I mean, I screwed up, you know? If I can't fix it... then I can't fix it. Just have to move on I guess."

"Well... you know you can always call me. I miss you anyways. You should come see me more often."

"After what happened last time? I don't know if you'll see me at mom and dad's again."

"Well, it's true, you do need to see mom and dad, but I was referring to my place. You know, you never even gave me a house warming gift," he threw her a grin.

"Oh, Mike! You found a job? Where? You got a house?!"

"Well, an apartment, actually. But yeah! I landed that job at Halmat! You know, that factory downtown.."

"Oh yeah! That's so great, Mike! Where's your apartment at?"

Mike and Heather had begun giving directions to his apartment, but the doors swung open to reveal John and... Vanessa?? Well shit. 

Heather saw her look of dismay and turned. As she turned back, her face was grim, "Do you want to go somewhere else?"

"No, no. I have to get over it somehow, right? Just... suck it up," Jennifer smiled at them, "I'm a big girl. I can do it."

Her words, however, were much stronger than she felt. Inside, her heart just about shattered and she felt like she was having to search for adequate breath. If he was going back to Vanessa... she'd really screwed up big time. 

He must have felt eyes on him, because he turned toward her, and looked at her. It was a deep look, like he was looking for something, then it turned embarrassed. He threw a quick glance at Vanessa, then turned completely away from Jennifer, his back on her. 

Jennifer sighed, and turned, enveloping herself back into the conversation with Mike. She was just going to have to learn how to forget about him.

Mike interrupted himself, and mumbled, "I have two missed calls from mom..."

Jennifer automatically looked at hers as well, and right then her mother was calling a third time. She quickly picked it up, and answered, "Hello....?"

"Jen..." Her mom's voice broke before she continued, "Jennifer, it's your father. You need to come... to the hospital."

***************

John:

He watched as the three of them practically flew out the door. Well, that certainly wasn't because of him... what happened?

His gaze fell on Jennifer's retreating figure, and Vanessa murmured, "So that's her huh? The one with the lighter hair?"

His eyes snapped back to Vanessa, and he silently nodded. 

"Well, at least you picked a pretty one. What happened?"

"I screwed up, and pissed her off. We broke it off, but we saw each other in a club a few weeks later, and she fucked some guy she didn't know. I mean we weren't really together then... but still..." 

"And you're miserable?"

He glanced down, wondering whether he should be truthful, "Yeah. I'm a complete wreck."

"You wanna know what I think?"

"I don't know to be honest. I'm not sure you're one to go to for romance advice."

"Don't be a prick. Look, obviously, you have some crazy feelings for this girl. I know that you know I cheated on you...many times, and you were never even phased. This girl sleeps with someone else while you're not even together, and you are coming apart at the seams. Don't get me wrong, she was pretty messed up for that.. but to me it seems that it would have never happened if she hadn't seen you there. It's still wrong, but her motives were all about you... If you two can get yourselves together, you just might have something special. If you can't get yourselves together, then you need to stay as far away from each other as possible..."

"I don't know... What if she does it again, Vanessa? Is she just gonna cheat on me every time I piss her off? I can't be perfect.."

"And neither can she. If she feels about you the way you feel about her... then I really don't think she would even think about doing it again."

John sighed, his vulnerability practically shining through, "Burn me once..." he started, and slowly trailed off.

"Well," Vanessa began, "I completely understand why you wouldn't go back to her, but you could be missing out on something real. There's not a whole lot of 'real' left in this world anymore. Either way, you're playing with chance."

He considered that, but soon turned the conversation to a more pleasant topic...sort of, "So how's your love life?"

"Well, I met this guy..."

Conversation became dull, as it had always been with Vanessa, and around eleven he was ready to go home.

"Well," he stood, "It was nice catching up. I have to go home and get some shut eye."

"...It's Friday..."

"Yeah, well, I have plans tomorrow."

"Oh... well until next time, then. Good luck with everything John. I hope it turns out well."

"Yeah. You too."

He left, not looking back, and drove home in silence. Did Vanessa have a point? Jennifer did look pretty miserable herself... but didn't she deserve to be? Was she worth trying again..?

He'd just pulled into his driveway when he got a text from Mike. Oh, God... Mr. Brandon had a heart attack.

***************

Jennifer:

Her heart was racing as Mike drove them to the hospital. She was crying too hard to drive. Man, what was up with all the crying these days? This had to stop. 

The three of them flew into the hospital. Jennifer had always hated hospitals. They had always really creeped her out.

They walked into her dad's room, and the color immediately drained from her face. He was so... lifeless looking. Her dad had always a strong, vibrant sort of man. She thought she would fall apart right then and there. She'd never called him after the night she'd last had dinner with them... The way she'd acted... Could she get anything right anymore?

Her mother ran into Mike's arms, sobbing, "I was at the grocery store... I came home to him lying on the ground... I should have been there..."

"It's not your fault mom... It's ok... He'll be ok.." Mike threw a wild glance at Jennifer, but she was completely dazed, so he looked to Heather for help, who'd been standing quietly in the corner.

She walked to them and put a hand on her back, rubbing softly, "It's ok, Mrs. Brandon. We're here.. and he'll be ok.."

"But he might not be," she wailed, "they said he may not make it through the night.."

Jennifer was still standing back, silent tears rolling down her face as she watched her father lie still. They all looked at her cautiously, but said nothing. Soon Mike was questioning their mother.

"Mom.. have you eaten..?"

"Well... no of course not. I've been with your father since I got home.."

"Mom, they have a great cafeteria here. Heather and I will go with you. You need to eat something. Not eating isn't going to help dad."

"But what about your father...."

"Jen will be here with him. I think she needs some time with him anyway.."

They all threw another glance at Jennifer before she nodded, "Ok... only if you two stay with me."

"Of course, Mrs. Brandon. We'll be right here with you," Heather reassured her.

They left the room quietly, and Jennifer sat down next to the crumpled image of her father. 

She tentatively held his hand, and murmured, "Dad... Dad I am so... so sorry..."

***************

John:

He walked into the all too bright hospital room to see Jennifer sitting alone with her father, whimpering.

"I.. I really fucked up, Dad... Sorry.. I guess I shouldn't use that sort of language when you're on your potential death bed... Anyway.. Not just with you and Mom... with John.. my job.. everything. Ever since everything fell through last month.. I've been sluggish at work.. unproductive.. my boss knows... I think he's got me on a time line.. I could very well get fired...

"I hurt mom's feelings last time.. I never did apologize.. I always wondered why she never really accepted me.. but I never really gave her the chance, did I? I just... assumed because you both loved John so much that I had something to prove..

"John won't talk to me.. hell he won't even look at me. I don't guess I can blame him. He would have never done to me what I did to him... I hurt him really bad... I thought.. God it was all my pride. I just... I wanted him to think that I could easily get over him and live without him.. I guess to inspire him to come back to me... Wow that's so sick now that I've said it out loud. When I first went into that club... I.. Had John not been there I would have never.." She sighed and hung her head, the tears falling freely now.

He knew he should leave... He shouldn't be listening in on such an intimate moment, even if it was one sided...but he just couldn't... Jennifer was not a woman who openly poured out her emotions. If there was ever a moment when she was telling the truth, it would be now.

"The whole point was to prove to him that I could live just fine without him... but I can't. I'm trying so very hard to forget about him.. But seeing him every day.. seeing him with Vanessa... I can't do it.. I'm so, so very miserable. I'm even thinking about quitting my job..if I don't get fired first, that is. It's just too hard, seeing him every day..

"And now I'm losing you, too. I'm sure I've already lost Mom, the way I've hurt her, but I... You were always so strong... You showed me how to be strong... I don't know if I can lose you too.. I'm so sorry, Daddy... To you, to Mom, to Mike, to John... I've been such a prideful bitch to all of you... I'm so sorry... Please... Please don't leave me Dad."

She was going to quit.. because she couldn't stand seeing him.. and not being with him.. She was sorry. She really was. 

John deliberately opened the door, and shut it hard enough for her to hear. She turned and looked at him, red eyed, and sniffling, then abruptly turned back around. He could sense that she was embarrassed, even though she had no idea that he'd heard. 

"If you need me to leave.. that's ok...I can come back later..." 

"No... no it's ok," she sniffled, getting up from the bedside chair, "He was a father to you, too. I know that.. I would never expect you to leave."

She offered the chair to him, but he declined, now standing next to her. 

"Are.. are you ok?" He looked at her. She looked absolutely fragile. Actually, she looked beyond fragile. More like broken.

She paused a second, emotion welling up in her eyes, then slowly shook her head, a shaky, "No.." coming out of her lips as she tried to contain her tears.

Hesitantly, he took her into his arms and held her. She began to shake under him, and he could feel her warm tears begin to soak through his sweater. He held onto her, even when the door opened and the family came back in, eyeing them with curiosity and surprise.

They waited, and waited for several hours with no change from Mr. Brandon. Eventually, Mrs. Brandon tiredly murmured to the rest of the family, "Kids... you all need to go home and get some sleep. If anything changes, I'll call you, but until then, there's no need for all of us to be here."

They all tried to protest, but she wouldn't budge. "There's no point, guys. Just get home and rest."

Eventually, she won, and they all prepared to leave. Mike, cautiously eyeing John, yawned and mumbled, "John... do you think you can take Jennifer home? Heather and I are going to my apartment, and I think that's all I can manage right now."

John slowly nodded, glancing at Jennifer's wide eyed expression as she shook her head at Mike, "Yeah Mike, that's fine." 

***************

Jennifer:

She watched the water trickle down the window as the reflection of street lights bounced off of it. John was quiet in the seat next to her, and there was no music playing, but she was far too tired to feel awkward right now. 

He cleared his throat after a while, and mumbled, "So.. how have you been."

Not looking at him, she watched the lines pass on the street, "Fine. You?"

"...Fine.."

She turned to him with tired eyes, his focused on the road, as she said, "John, you don't have to talk to me. I know it's uncomfortable for you to be in this situation, anyway, so there's no need to talk. I understand. It's fine. I'm sorry Mike did this to you."

"I...I don't mind taking you home, Jennifer. You've... been through a lot today," he shifted uncomfortably.

"Ok. I was just letting you know."

Silence drifted back into the vehicle. After what seemed like an eternity, they were pulling into her driveway, the rain coming down harder. She turned and murmured, "Thank you for the ride John. I'll see you Monday."




Frenemies with Benefits Ch. 06



Quickly, she slipped out of the car, and trudged to her door, the awning above it barely hiding her from the icy water. She was fumbling in the dark for her keys, and finally stuck it in the door when she heard a car door slam, and soon a warm body was next to hers.

"Jennifer... I... I heard what you said."

She looked up at him, blinking as a little bit of rain trickled into her face, "...What did I say?" she asked, confused.

"To your dad... in the room... I was there. I heard what you said. I.. I know I shouldn't have listened.. I couldn't help it. I hope you're not angry."

Even in the dark, she knew her face was visibly darkened, her embarrassment almost bringing her to tears as she whispered, "I swear to God I didn't know you were there..."

"I know. That's why I'm here. You would have never... said it if you didn't mean it..."

Her eyes bore into his, "I did mean it... Every word." 

The rain grew heavier as did their silence. Finally, Jennifer spoke again, "John, I can never be perfect, but I can promise you I will never... ever hurt you that way again... I just... I have come to realize a lot of things... and... I mean, John you must believe me. I lived with Shane for two years, and never, not once, did I cheat on him, and I didn't even love him..."

"You love me?" The words came quick and hushed from John's mouth, his eyes searching hers with more fervor than ever.

Taking a small step closer to him, letting the rain pour onto her, she looked at him with those fire eyes and said clearly, and even loudly, "Yes. I've never loved anyone the way I love you. I think... maybe I always have. I know I messed up, and I'll never be able to tell you how sorry I really am, but whether you take me back or not, I love you. And I'll never be able to stop, no matter how hard I try. I can't eat, can't sleep, can't... breathe. I'm giving my resignation on Monday. If leaving is what it takes to be less reminded of you, then..."

Before she could finish, John's mouth was searching hers. She was shocked into stillness, but only for a moment before she grasped him, her arms reaching around his neck as she tip-toed to try to be closer to him. 

Reaching behind her, he turned her key and pushed the door open, his mouth never leaving hers before he picked her up, and carried her into her house, then to her room. Gently, he laid her down on the bed and climbed atop her as he started to peel the cold, drenched clothes off of her. 

"John...." she muttered suddenly, "don't you think this is a little rash...shouldn't we talk about..."

His lips cut her off again as he mumbled into her mouth, "I love you, Jenny. And if you love me, too, that's all that matters."

She whispered against his lips, "I do..." before he cut her off again, his tongue seeking hers. He began to lift her sweater from her, then her pants. He kissed her legs as they became revealed, and she wiggled under him to help him. 

She laid before him, her milky skin seeming to glow as the moonlight hit her from in between the blinds of her window. Quickly taking his own drenched clothing on, he traced patterns on her stomach, making his way up to her bra covered breasts. 

He held them, his thumbs rubbing her already hard nipples through the material as he kissed the delicate line of her cleavage. She sighed, her eyes closing and hands going into his wet hair. 

He reached under her back and the hooks of her bra off of each other and pulled it off. Tossing it aside, he took a nipple into his mouth, receiving a gasp from her as the warmth of his mouth shocked her cold skin. His tongue began to swirl around her, and she thought she would come unglued. Her panties were quickly becoming soaked from something other than water, and the warmth quickly spread between her legs.

Soon, he was reaching there, feeling her over her panties, the silky, wet material letting the warmth of his hands through. She moaned, and whimpered, "John.. touch me.."

He smiled against her skin, still making love to her breasts, and mumbled against her, "I am, Jen."

She lifted her hips against his wandering hand and moaned trying to show him what she needed. He obliged, dipping his hands into her panties and feeling her heat as he slipped his fingers in-between her slit. She groaned, and lifted again, searching for him, her need growing by the second. 

Soon, he grew irritated with the constraint of her panties, so he slipped them off of her, her naked body laying before him. He groaned at the sight of her, and slipped his finger into her hot entrance, feeling tighter than he'd remembered. 

She gasped, feeling a second finger join the first, and she pulled him to her, her tongue passionately dancing with his as her juices seeped onto his fingers. His kisses trailed down her neck and shoulders, where she loved for them to be, and he sucked her delicate skin, licking and nibbling here and there as his fingers continued to pump into her, his thumb brushing her clit.

The hard length of him was pressed against her stomach, and she reached down and wrapped her hand around him, slowly pumping. He groaned into her neck, and gently bit her as she circled her thumb around the head of his throbbing member. 

Moaning, he begged, "Jenny.. I need you."

Her eyes met his as she whispered, "Then take me."

He pulled his cock away from her hands and positioned himself at her entrance, slowly guiding himself into her creamy center. They gasped in unison as he filled her up, her insides clenching around him as he pushed to the hilt. He pulled out almost all the way, her juices glistening on him, then moved back in ever so slowly. 

Their eyes connected, and they made love. She wrapped her legs around him, trying to push him deeper, and their hips would meet as they groaned and responded to one another. Her nails clenched his back as she lifted to meet him, his tempo picking up as he moved faster into her tunnel. 

He palmed her breast, and kissed her neck as she moaned under his touches. Each time he tweaked her nipple, her nails would dig harder into him, her eyes shutting tighter in pleasure. 

She opened her legs wider as he began to move harder inside her, then moved one of her legs over his shoulder, opening up even more to him. He gasped as his penetration moved deeper, and she began to buck against him, both of them needing more of each other, lost in passion. Reaching down, he stroked her clit in rhythm to his thrusts. 

"John... Ooohhhh... John... I..." She began to tighten around him, slowly trying to milk him as her climax neared. He moved from her neck to her lips as he kissed her, connecting with her in every way possible as their tongues intertwined. 

She moaned into his mouth, and he breathed against hers, "Jenny... Oh.. God.. Jen.."

In that moment, they let go together, their cries echoing as she screamed his name in passion, and he groaned in pleasure. Pumping one last time, he emptied completely into her as she continued to spasm around him, her cries soon falling into whimpers. He rolled off of her, exhausted, but she soon joined him again, her head resting on his chest.

"I love you, Jenny," he whispered against her damp hair.

"I love you, too," she sighed sleepily before they both drifted off. 

A call awoke them in the all too early morning. Her gravelly voice answered, "Hello?"

"It's Mike. Dad's ok. He made it through the night, and they said they'd keep him under close surveillance, but that he'd be ok. They've moved him to a different room..."

"We'll be there as soon as we can," Jennifer assured him.

"....We?" 

She blushed. Mike couldn't see her, but John could, and he'd heard the question. "Yeah...John and I."

"Good," Mike's satisfied smile was audible, "see you soon."

They hung up, and Jennifer was up, stretching and looking for clothes. John's hands soon came around her waist, and he kissed her neck, "Do we have to go right now?"

She laughed and sighed, "Yes, John. We need to see Dad. Besides, after that we have all day....."

***************

One year later

Jenny:

She was gathering paper's in her office. It was late. The end of the work day had come and gone, but there was more work to do before she had to leave. She heard the door open behind her, and she turned, "Why, Mr. Tate... what brings you here so late in the day?" 

"Well...." he started, "Is it ok if I come in? I don't want to interrupt if you're busy.."

"No, it's fine, come in."

He shut the door, and stood in front of her, "I have a favor to ask..."

"Mr. Tate, you manage a completely different department than me.. What could I do for you?"

He leaned forward and lightly kissed her lips, his tongue flicking against hers before murmuring, "Well, Mrs. Tate, I've been locked up in my office all alone today. I'm in great need of some... companionship," he lifted her up, and sat her on the edge of her desk, her skirt riding up past her knees as he moved between her legs, feeling her silky thighs. 

She smiled as he gasped when he reached her naked pussy. His lips came down hungrily on hers, and she sighed as his fingers explored her inner lips. Soon she was moaning under his knowing fingers, and right as she began to tighten around him, he pulled away.

"I have work of my own to finish up, and I know you do too. I won't bother you any longer, Mrs. Tate."

Her eyes narrowed at him as he moved to the door and turned only to wave goodbye at her. She growled, "Fuck you, Tate."

"Mmmmm, please do, Jenny."

Her eyebrow raised at their familiar banter, "Oh, trust me, I will."

*

The End

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