3 comments/ 39548 views/ 3 favorites Holiday Wishes By: vic450 Wow, it certainly has been a while since I posted something. I wrote the following at the request of a reader. She asked for a story for Christmas. Normally, it takes a couple of weeks for me to write and run through several drafts before I feel it is ready but she wanted it on time to reach on Christmas. What's a guy to do? I wrote it and it made her emailbox in time. I would like to thank the few readers who have written me regarding my old stories. Good or bad reviews mean a lot to me. I would also like to thank Literotica for keeping my stories up and available to those who go looking. May the pleasures that find you be the ones you seek and enjoy. Vic -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Maureen walks down the street. The night is not as cold as one would expect this time of year. It is not to mean it is not cold. When the wind picks up, there is definitely a 'bite' in the air. She sighs to herself, wondering why she had ever agreed to come tonight. It was "girls' night out" from the office and it was sort of a tradition. Still, Maureen wanted nothing more than to go home and take a nice hot bath. Why did she agree to come here anyway? * * * It is a yearly thing at the office when it draws near the end of the year. The management calls it a "Holiday Lunch" but everyone thought of it as a cheap way to pay for a Holiday gathering but still keep the employees working in the office. They still have the big "Holiday Party" but that usually turns out good for two groups. One, the network predators who want to get ahead in the company. Or two, those that just want to get trashed at the company's expense. Nothing wrong with that and the added bonus of a free lunch on the company made it even better. The lunch, as usual, is nothing special. Everyone ordered something and someone, usually the senior manager's assistant, orders the food from some almost fancy place. When the food arrives, it is all sorted in the conference room. This is also where the managers pass out their "presents" for their staff. Usually a card and if the staff is lucky, some check or gift card. Maureen always laughs at this. The company gives out bonuses, on good years. Depending on how good these gifts are, one can usually tell whether or not there will be a bonus at the end of the year. Almost everyone takes their food back to their offices. This way they can secretly cry or be happy with their cards while they continue with their work. Everyone wants to finish early and head home whether it is good news or bad. Maureen and the other girls had finished their work. All their items completed for the year and the books have been properly closed. They stayed in the conference room to talk about everything. It usually led to the usual subjects, especially at this time of year. "So, Maureen, what are you hoping for this Holiday season?" Annie asks. All heads turn to Maureen. She could see a few grins. "Well..." Maureen starts, drawing it out. Jenny pipes up, "A man?" The others laugh at the question. Maureen is single. She has been single for a while and all of them know it. Sure, they've tried setting her up with single men but it is difficult. Well, they say she is picky but it is not a bad thing when she is looking for the right man, right? "You're single so you must be looking for THE one!" Julie says, pointing at Maureen. There were a few groans but there were more laughing. "Perhaps." Maureen says, "My dating life has been a little dry lately." "Like the rest of us single girls." Annie follows up quickly. Maureen could see that a few heads were nodding. "I don't know. I'm not sure that is what I need right now though. It has been a while. But I do love that excitement, the feeling when someone likes me. At the same time, though, it makes me cringe." Maureen admits. "Why would the fact that someone likes you make you cringe?" Julie asks. Maureen shrugs and says, "Well, I know it will eventually end." Annie frowns and asks, "Isn't kind of a depressing line of thought? What makes you think it will end?" Maureen almost snorts but says, "Well, given my dating history, it is the usual pattern. Nothing has gone right with any of my last few dates." "Maybe it is the type of guys you are dating." Susan comments. Maureen nods, "Maybe." Annie says, "Okay, so you're looking for a short term deal." She thought about it. Was it a bad idea? Maybe Maureen the woman should not aim so high as to catch "the" one. Although, she thought, it would be nice. But... Maureen nods again, "Maybe." Annie then says, "So, for fun, let's say you get to ask Santa for a man this Christmas. What would you want in a man for a little bit?" Maureen almost chuckles but she thinks about it for a second. "I think I have come to the conclusion that THE one may not be just around the corner." she says looking at all the girls. A few, thinking about it in their own terms, grumbles and disagrees with her. "Hey, I may have someone for you. Someone in the tech department!" Susan says. Maureen shakes her head. They know she is not a fan of being set up, especially after the disasters of the last few attempts. "It is not like I need a man." Maureen states and continues, "I am not one of those women who think the whole world revolves around a perfect relationship." As Maureen says this, she looks around at the faces of the other women. She hopes she has not insulted anyone. The women around here seem so intent on being in that relationship. Even those that are already in a relationship speak about it as if it is the greatest thing in the world. A drug that does not have a side affect is what they make it sound like. Yes, it would be great to be in one but until then Maureen is not going to curse the heavens for not supplying one. She will find something but for now, what would be good to fill the time? "What? You don't want to find the one?" Julie asks, barely hiding the incredulousness of the thought. "Don't be silly, of course I would love to find the one. I just think I need a break from the search for a bit." Maureen says, "You know. Have some fun for a little bit. Make some good memories." Annie laughs, "Okay, what would be good for now?" Maureen thinks about the question. What does she miss most about being in a relationship that would be good right now? She smiles and says, "Good sex." The other women laugh, none of them disagreeing with the thought. "Trust me, honey that does not last." Shauna says. The other women burst out again. Shauna is known for complaining about the short amount of pleasure men give her. It always seems, at least to Maureen, that Shauna would need a man who is hooked up to the Energizer bunny and go all month long. Maureen laughs too but says, "I guess, for me, a good thing to have for the Holidays is a man who is good to me." Smiling at each of the women, she continues, "Someone that I find attractive." She puts up a finger and says, "Someone who thinks I am attractive." Maureen then taps the table with her finger and finishes, "This someone should want to play and tease -- not to mention, good in bed." Shauna nods and adds, "And, last long enough for you to have a few good orgasms!" The women laugh and some of them were even clapping at the addition. Maureen could see that Shauna was serious. She thought about it and while she had never had any trouble with sex, she had rarely been "wow'd" by it. Maybe it is the men she had been with. Maybe it is her. Annie, still chuckling, says to Maureen, "So, you are asking Santa for a good lay?" She smiles in return and answer, "You know, I guess yeah. I am asking Santa for that." Susan raises her drink and says, "Okay, back to work. Tonight, we have our night out and hopefully Santa will show up with our presents. You will be there tonight, right Maureen?" They all look at Maureen. She is not a big fan of going out. She would rather go home. "Hey, it won't come true if you don't go out with us tonight to toast the wish!" Julie says. Maureen smiles, "Okay. I'll be there. I wouldn't want to make it too difficult for Santa to deliver my present." * * * Next year, Maureen will be telling someone the story that she met Chris at a bar. Perhaps it is the strangest way to meet someone, Maureen is not sure. Not that meeting someone at a bar is strange but it is the way it happened that is strange. Odd really. * * * The weather report said it would be cold but it did not say anything about it being so windy. Maureen had just about had enough of her scarf dancing in the wind and deciding on covering her face. Of course this happens just as she reaches for the door handle. "Mmph!" she hears herself saying as if the scarf has the strength of weight to hurt her face. Maureen wrestles the scarf down and tucks it into her coat as she swings the door open. The door moves quite easily as she steps through. Maureen never realized how noisy the wind can be until that moment. The sound changed from the blowing wind to the sound of music and the hum of people talking in the bar. Both were quite loud and annoying to Maureen's ear. However, the temperature change feels nice but a bit immediate to Maureen. Maureen reaches to undo her coat and tangled scarf. She looks around and finds her coworkers and friends sitting near the back of the bar. Maureen heads towards them as she opens her coat. It is then that she feels something hit her left hand. "Ow!" a male voice says. Maureen turns to look left. The back of her hand had just hit a man in the back of the head when she had swung her arm out to take off her coat. She could not believe she did not see him. "I am so sorry!" Maureen exclaims as she pulls her hand away. Eight other men sat at this table, they are all laughing at the individual she had hit. The victim of her fist turns towards Maureen while rubbing the back of his head. He looks at her. Maureen leans over and says, "Are you okay? I am so sorry about hitting you!" She honestly feels bad for hitting him. With the way the back of her hand hurt, she guessed that she had hit him pretty hard. A man stood up, looking at Maureen. He picks up his drink and raises it towards Maureen then points to the victim with his other hand. "I think you have impeccable timing. We were about to smack him when you did us the favor of doing it in such an amusing fashion!" he almost tries to contain his laughter. The rest of the table continues to laugh and the man she hit had even begun to chuckle. The man takes a sip from his mug and says to Maureen, "I am Rudy." Rudy goes around the table introducing the men. "This is Donald. Dash. Colin. Prance. Billy. Carl the Dancer. Kelly aka Cupid." He then points to the victim and says, "He is Chris." Chuckling once more, Chris raises his beer towards Maureen and says, "It is okay. The alcohol will numb the pain." Chris takes a sip and the rest of the table guffaws. Rudy, still standing, starts to introduce the rest of the table. Rudy introduces the rest of the table to Maureen but she really did not pay attention. She looks at Chris, more specifically, his eyes. There is a sparkle there that she could not put her finger on but it drew her attention. His chuckle is light, not forced or affected as most people do. She found him interesting. Oddly enough, it is not the usual features in which she found herself attracted to in a man. Maureen looks at his hand. She has found that some men can take their alcohol but the sign of erratic hand movements or gestures are a sure sign that they are well on their way to 'happy drunk land'. She only wonders because he seems quite happy. This is, in step with the rest of the table. Everyone seems to be enjoying their evening. Maureen realizes that Rudy has finished introducing the rest of the table and her eyes were still on Chris. "I am very sorry about that, Chris." Maureen says to Chris. At that point, Rudy smiles at Maureen and offers, "Would you care to join us?" "Rudy..." Chris says with a more serious tone. "Thank you," Maureen interrupts, "But I am here to meet some friends. Maureen points in their direction and, as if in the movies, the whole table of heads turns towards Maureen's friends. Her friends, she notes, were all staring in her direction. Maureen's pointing fingers nearly hits some other patron and she steps back. As she steps back, she bumps into Chris just as he takes another sip of his beer. This causes another round of laughter at the table. She looks sheepishly at Chris who starts to chuckle once more. "Thank you but I had better go before I knock Chris or someone else out." The guys at the table say their good-byes as Maureen steps away. Her eyes wander back to Chris for a second and Maureen sees him lifting his glass in her direction and then winks at her. Maureen found that she is smiling to herself as she reaches the table with her friends. They ask her what happened over by the table of men and she tells them. "Is he cute?" Jenny asks as soon as Maureen finishes the story. "Who is missing?" Maureen asks the girls, hoping to change the subject. "Susan will be late. You didn't answer the question. Is he cute?" Annie asks. "I don't know." Maureen answers. "Aw, come on. You didn't look at the man you beat up?" Annie says in response. Defensively, Maureen says, "I did not beat him up!" she pauses, "It was an accident." All of the girls say, "Mm-hm." as if they did not believe her. Maureen smiles sheepishly but her eyes turn towards the direction of Chris. She is surprised, almost shocked, to find that Chris is also looking in her direction. Maureen steadies her self and lets her logical mind go to work. Chris is definitely not her type. Usually, Maureen finds herself attracted to the brooder types or the "bad boys". Maureen sort of like the fact that Chris did not act like a jerk after being hit by her. She found herself smiling at him. Maureen could see that Chris smiles at her when he saw her looking in his direction. It is not one of those sleazy smiles that some guys give women at bars. (Thank goodness.) No, it looks to Maureen like one of those smiles that two friends shared after a well planned joke or one of those acts two friends played out to shock or entertain friends. Maureen's attention was brought back to her friends as they seem to burst out laughing at something. She turns to them and they're looking at her. "I think he likes you." Annie says, thrusting her chin in the direction of Chris. "I think he likes you for hitting him." Jenny laughs. "Mm-hm." is the response from the rest of the table. Maureen laughs along with them. It is a funny concept that Susan brought up once. Men needed to be hit once in a while to be put in their places. Susan had told them some love being hit and sometimes prefer their women tell them what to do. Then again, Maureen thought, Susan is way too kinky than any of the other women here. "Well." Annie says, "It is time for another round. Who wants something from the bar?" Maureen glances back at Chris. He is laughing with his friends. She carefully looks at him as he lifts his drink for a sip. Maureen almost smiles excitedly to herself as she notices that Chris does not have a ring. It does not mean he is alone. It is also too dark for her to see if there is a 'light spot' where a ring could have been. Maureen has heard stories of guys going to bars and taking off their wedding bands in order to pick up women. She had always found that distasteful and is careful to keep an eye out for it. Maureen hears her name being called and turns back to her friends and coworkers. "Either go over and talk with him or pay attention." Annie says, "We know it has been a while since you have beaten down a man, but you cannot be that desperate!" The rest of the table laughs and Maureen starts to protest but decides not to say anything. She knows the joking with her being the center of attention will become worse if she did. Instead, Maureen asks innocently, "What?" "She was asking if you needed a drink." Jenny says in order to save Maureen further embarrassment. Maureen nods in Julie's direction in appreciation. She looks around at the different glasses on the table and decides on something light. It was the habit of the group to go for a round each. It depended on the occasion but usually, it is a round each until they all have had a round or it is time to go. Since someone else asked, it is not her turn. Maureen gives her order and Annie nods. Annie smiles and says to Maureen, "You want me to go ask him for his number?" Annie winks at Maureen and nods towards Chris, "Or do you want me to go over and tell him to come kneel at your feet?" The last part was a bit too loud for Maureen. Alarmed, Maureen looks up and quickly takes a glance at Chris to see if he had heard. Maureen reaches up and takes a swipe at Annie. It is not a serious swipe because Maureen knows it is in jest but, just the same, Maureen would rather Annie stop the tease now. The others laugh. "Oh no!" Annie says dramatically, still a little too loud for Maureen. "I do not swing that way," Annie steps back, her hands to her heart, "No matter how hard you beat me!" The women laugh harder just as her new "victim" spins and heads towards the bar to get the next round. Throughout the next hour or so, the coworkers left Maureen alone about Chris. They had found another within the group to make fun of. Even when one or two of them would catch Maureen glancing over at Chris. "Your turn." Jenny says to Maureen. Realizing why Jenny had said that, Maureen turns to the group, "Okay, who wants a refill?" No one really wanted something. "Looks like you're getting off easy." Jenny says. Maureen smiles and nods. Only one refill request. She stands and turns toward the bar. It strikes her then as to how much time must have past. The bar was crowded, far more crowded than she had realized. Maureen glances over at the table Chris and his friends were sitting. Maureen wonders if they had left since she had last looked over. A feeling of disappointment fills her as she found the chair Chris was sitting at empty. She looks over at the others at the table and a spark of hope comes to life as Rudy and the rest of them are still there. Perhaps he had gone out for some fresh air or had gone to the rest room. Shrugging, Maureen heads towards the bar. After what Maureen believes to be too much shoveling, pushing and dodging, she finally reaches the bar. She nods towards the bartender and glances around. Maureen sighs to herself. It is Friday night and she should have known better than to come out with the girls. Crowds are not much fun. They are less fun when she had to fight her way through them. It will probably be worse when she has to carry the drinks back to the table. However, it is Friday. Maureen should be having fun. She did not really want another drink but figured that since she is supposed to be having fun, why not? The bartender took her order when he came over. It was then that Maureen realizes she may be a little buzzed. Not to mention that it felt a little too warm in the bar. Maybe it was the crowd and the crush of bodies. She shrugs to herself as the bartender came back a few minutes later with the drinks. Maureen paid, also giving the appropriate tip. Taking a glass in each hand, she lifts them. Maureen realizes she had put a little too much 'spin' in her turn away from the bar. She tries to stand still and hopefully balance herself. However, Maureen's brain and logical center tells her that it is not happening. Her body almost mocks her as her legs start to give out underneath her. Holiday Wishes Upon the Wind Author's Note: "Holiday Wishes Upon the Wind" is my entry for Literotica's - 2011 Winter Holiday Contest. This is a Romance story through and through, but there are strong paranormal elements present, which made categorizing this story difficult. I have been blessed with some amazing people in my life who have lent their life experience and inspiration to the story. But it really is all about the lovely, impish Spirit who guided it along. I hope she is pleased with "her" love story. The italicized words in the story represent flashbacks in time. Please Read, Vote, and/or Comment and ENJOY! I love feedback, and constructive criticism helps me grow as a writer. One vote per reader, please. Thanks so much! (My "thanks" and "mentions" follow after the story.) ~~~~ Raechel looked around at the modest pile of wrapped presents beneath the Douglas Fir, noting the lovely contrast between colors and characters. Glancing around, her blue eyes landed on several piles of yet-to-be-wrapped gifts. She sighed. It was Christmas Eve and she still had so much to do! They had to deliver the gifts in the morning. She was in charge of wrapping all of the gifts for the Toy Drive this year. She had been given the choice of crafts, cookies, or gift-wrapping. She chose, in her opinion, the least of three evils. She had no patience for crafts. Her sister's kitchen was not wheelchair adapted the way her own home was. So she had begrudgingly accepted the wrapping task, wondering just how much work could it be to wrap a few gifts for kids? She yawned, stretched, and lightly banged her head on the table. "Just a little break," she told herself as she closed her eyes. "Raechel," a voice called softly in the distance. "Raechel." She lifted her head and looked around. "Who said that?" She reached for another package lying on the low card-table, knocking over her mug of tepid cocoa in the process. The cocoa spilled, running all over the roll of festive wrapping paper and ruining the cardboard box containing a babydoll. With a groan of annoyance, she grabbed up the box, ripped the sopping cardboard open and glared at all of the plastic twists and security ties holding the doll in. "You've got to be kidding me!" she growled. After unsuccessfully trying to untwist the ties, she picked up the fancy pair of pinking shears and attacked the box with them, cutting her thumb on the cardboard in the process. Disgusted, she pushed away from the table, grabbed a paper towel and wheeled over to the coat rack. Flinging her woolen shawl over her shoulders and slipping on her leather gloves, she pushed fast and hard, escaping out into the cold night air. The hair on the back of her neck stood up as she made her way down to the barn. She felt like she was being watched and the sooner she got herself inside, the better. A howl broke the stillness of the night startling her. Despite the fact that she knew it was just the old husky that lived down the lane, she still picked up her speed. Sarah wasn't due back for another couples of hours. She would hide out in the barn, check on the horses, and spend some alone time with her horse Windust. Her heavy heart lifted remembering when Windust had come into her life and the man who came with him. "I miss you," she said as she opened the barn door and rushed inside. Slamming the door shut, she breathed a sigh of relief, chuckling to herself at her silly imagination. Of course no one answered her and no one was watching her. She unlatched the stable door. Wind nearly knocked her out of her chair, greeting her, and nudging her body. She pushed on the brakes to ensure she wouldn't move and then wrapped her arms around his gray neck, breathing in his horse scent and loving him. "I can always count on you, friend." She stroked his neck and kissed his muzzle, closing her eyes and allowing the memories to overtake her of that very first day. *** After the accident that took away Raechel's mobility, she had reluctantly started going to counseling. She even joined a support group for newly disabled women. At first she had been in shock. She was grateful she had survived, but railed at the unfairness of losing her ability to walk. Depression had set in and she had disconnected from the world. Her therapist had worked diligently to try to bring her out of her shell and after months of working with her, she was able to reawaken Raechel's love of horses. She had immediately put Raechel in touch with a therapeutic riding organization that helped people with disabilities. Raechel had her doubts, but Angie asked her to give it a chance. That's what brought her to Loving Care Farm in the first place. She slowly wheeled into the stable. She'd had a few lessons as a little girl and loved horses since before she could talk. But she never imagined she might be back up on one again. A horse's whinny caught her attention and she wheeled up to its stall. It was a mournful sound that made her want to hug him. It was love at first sight. She stared in at the stallion and watched. Unable to stand any longer on weakened legs, he bent to the knee and laid himself down. He rested his dark head on a bale of hay, blowing out air with such effort. His hide was dull gray, but Raechel imagined at one time it was probably lustrous and beautiful. She was about to talk to the horse, when she saw a man pick up a syringe and walk over to him. She pushed forward. Her wheels crunching on the ground must have alerted the man to her presence, because he turned to her and lifted his brow. "Can I help you?" he asked her. "What's his name?" Raechel inquired, pointing to the stallion. "He used to be Wind Dancer, but now we call him Windust." The man walked over and set the syringe on a bale of hay, turning to her. "Windust, like Stardust," she said, her blue eyes sparkling as she wheeled up to the gate. "Yeah, something like that." He filled the food bucket. "It suits him." She unlocked the gate and before he could stop her, she wheeled herself into the paddock. "You really shouldn't be doing that. You might frighten him with your-- " "Wheels? Last time I checked, horses are used to carriages and wagons. I'm sure he'll be fine." She smiled sweetly. Windust lifted his sullen head up as she entered his paddock. They gazed into each other's eyes. Despite her calming presence, she could see that Windust couldn't relax. She noticed out of the corner of her eye that the man remained at the gate, watching her. She rolled up to the great gray body and reached her hand up. Windust lifted his head up so she could touch him and snuffled at her sandy hair. She laughed joyously. "Nice to meet you as well, Windust. Who owns him?" "The track owns him. I'm Larry, his trainer and he isn't long for this world. When a horse is as badly injured as he is, he is no longer valuable to the sport. Veterinarian bills are exceedingly expensive. It pains me to have to end his short life." He explained, his voice full of emotion. "Then why end it? It's up to you whether he lives or dies, right? Maybe he just needs to be given a chance." Raechel saw from the startled look in his eye, that what she said might have registered. She pressed on. "If he had some love and care and a lot of patience maybe he could be nursed back to his full strength. Maybe he needs someone in his life that understands him." Raechel gently stroked Wind's muzzle and crooned softly, her heart going out to him. She knew what it was like to have people give up on you before even giving you a fair chance. She felt connected to this horse and shared his pain and his fate. She would fight for him! "If I don't do what I'm supposed to do, I will have many to answer to. I have no room for him in these stables and he is costing my wife and I a fortune." Raechel saw a young woman enter the stables. She introduced herself as Larry's wife Sarah, and smiled at her pleasantly. "Larry, you should speak for yourself. This is my farm and the welfare of the horses are my decision." Sarah admonished her husband. "Sarah, honey you know he's hurt. I love the horses just as much as you do." She glared at him. "I never signed on for working with the track. That was your doing." "We needed the money." "I know. Okay? I know! You don't have to remind me every single day about the money. Once we are back on our feet, we are leaving the racing business behind. Understood?" "Yes, dear." Larry walked away, defeated. Raechel felt uncomfortable listening in on a private conversation, but relaxed when Sarah turned to her with a smile. She didn't look to be that much older than she was. "Now, what's your name?" she asked Raechel. "Raechel." "Raechel, have you ever ridden a horse before?" She saw Larry looked over at them doubtfully and she pursed her lips. "I have. It was a long time ago, though. I was just a kid. It's always been a dream of mine to have a horse of my own, to learn to ride one an-and then this happened to me." She pointed to her legs. "I felt this freedom and that was when I could still walk." Tears filled her eyes. "It felt like I was flying. It felt like I had no cares in the world." She cried softly and Sarah embraced her gently. "I'd love to feel that again. I bet I could even forget about this damn chair then." "You okay, honey?" Sarah asked concerned. "I'm sorry. I don't know why I'm crying." "Listen, you come back tomorrow and get to know Windust. I'll give you a few riding lessons and when he gets stronger, we'll get you on his back and see if he can hold you." Sarah suggested. *** The stamping of hooves on the ground brought Raechel back to the present. After she laid a blanket on top of Windust to keep him warm, she left the stall and wheeled up to the Dutch door of the stable to gaze out into the December night. She blinked up at the sky. Snow had begun falling hard and she knew that tonight the temperatures were going to plummet below freezing. She shivered in trepidation looking at the snow-covered pathway, then looked at the clock on the wall. How had three hours gone by without her noticing? The stables were out of the wind, but still drafty and cold. She pushed out as far as she could, reached the edge of the heavy wooden door and pulled with all her might. The door slammed with a satisfying thud. But just as soon as she had gotten the bottom door closed, a drift of frosty wind blew the top door open. She stared at it expecting someone to announce themselves. When no one did, she picked up her reacher from the corner to shut the top door. But it had swung too far out and she couldn't reach it. "Raechel, how could you be so careless?" she admonished herself. She hadn't known the snow was supposed to gust so fast and so hard. She should have watched the weather channel, but had been caught up in Christmas preparations. She hadn't wanted to participate this year. It was too soon. Grief was still too fresh in her heart. But Sarah had brow-beaten her into feigning holiday spirit and helping her with her many charity events. "I know you aren't in the holiday mood. I'm not either. But we have to get through this together. Besides, helping the children will keep our minds off of missing Collin, my pending divorce, and the disaster my soon-to-be-ex husband made of our lives and the farm with his manipulations." Sarah wore many hats in Raechel's life. She was her sister, her boss, and had become her very best friend. Raechel reached into her shawl pocket for her cell phone. Her hand went right through the satin inside of the pocket and came up empty. She lifted the shawl and gasped at the big hole staring her in the face. "Crap!" She exclaimed. "When had that happened?" And then she remembered the miniature horse with a taste for fabric. She had been visiting Rosie just this morning and recalled scolding her for chewing on people's clothes. She had produced a carrot for her and had gotten a head bump for her efforts. She hadn't thought to check for holes. She sighed and wheeled over to the walkie-talkies that Sarah kept on hand so everyone could communicate with each other. She turned the switch on and grumbled at the red light blinking at her. Someone had forgotten to take them in and charge them. The battery was dead. "This sucks." She went over to the video camera and prayed that Sarah had the monitor turned on inside the house. If she did, she could get her attention and let her know she was stuck. She flipped on the camera and groaned at the loud static sound. She waved her arms wildly, still hoping. But nothing happened. "Now what the hell am I going to do?" She asked outloud. Her breath was visible in the freezing air. She blew on her gloved hands to keep them warm. Windust poked his head over the stable door and whinnied, chuffing at her. Normally Jamal, the stable-hand came out to feed and water the horses, but he was out of town being introduced to his fiance's family for the first time. Old Mack, the neighbor was filling in and there was never any telling when he'd pop by. Yes, the Old MacDonald song jokes abounded, and funnily enough, Old Mac's last name was O'Donnell. Sometimes he didn't get to the farm chores until the wee hours of the morning. She had thought it odd the first time she had seen him out there at midnight feeding the horses. But when she had questioned Sarah about it, she had shrugged and smiled fondly. Raechel learned that Old Mack had been like a grandfather to Sarah and Collin growing up and she was just happy he was helping at all. The thought of her beloved husband sent her back into the stable. She parked her chair and leaned her body into Wind's, drawing strength from the horse. "God, I miss you Col. "It's going to be three years on Christmas. How can that be? It seems like just yesterday we met on your sister's farm." She let memories of the day they met wash over her. *** It was the day after she met Windust. Raechel returned to the stables. Sarah was waiting for her. She still couldn't believe that she was serious about riding lessons and was giddy with excitement. Raechel noticed there were two stable hands waiting as well. Sarah walked up to her. "Hello Raechel. Are you ready for your lesson?" "More than ready." She grinned. "Wind is beautiful." "He used to be even more beautiful." Sarah nudged Windust's head with a sigh. "His coat was almost silver when he was healthy. We'll get him there again. Okay, I think that the first thing we should do is find a suitable horse and get you up on his back to see how your balance is. I have Collin and Jamal here in case you need help." "Are you sure this is a good idea?" Raechel looked over at the other horses, having second thoughts. She watched as Sarah went up to each one and assessed them. She nodded briskly choosing a chestnut gelding. She put on his bridle and bit and walked him over to where Raechel sat nervously waiting. "We'll harness Cruise into the frame. Once he's in the wooden frame and supported we will get you up there. I know you really want to ride Wind. He and I had a talk last night. He really likes you. But he needs more time to heal. Cruise is a perfect choice to help you," Sarah explained. She instructed the two men to harness the chestnut into the frame. Jamal looked to be a few years older than Collin. They were both attractive. Jamal had a natural dark tan to his skin, chocolate brown eyes, and a dimple in his chin. Collin's skin in comparison was light. He had hazel eyes, and hair the color of the honey-wheat tied back in a ponytail. Raechel wondered how it would look flying free in the wind when he was riding a horse. She blushed at the thought. Once secure, Jamal and Collin walked over to her. Collin pushed her chair over and she smiled shyly up at him. "Just put your arm around my shoulder and Jamal will pick up your legs." Raechel did as she was told and had no problems wrapping her arms around the handsome guy. Wind watched and as she was lifted onto Cruise's back, he whinnied. Collin said quietly, "I can tell that Wind likes you. He hasn't whinnied in weeks." She smiled at him and he winked at her. The two men set Raechel on Cruise's back, while Sarah placed one leg on one each side of the horse. "You can let go now," Collin told her. "It's okay, you aren't going anywhere. The horse is supported and you are a featherweight besides." She blushed, seeing Sarah watching her with a curious expression. She wondered if Sarah also picked up on Collin flirting with her. Raechel got her answer when Sarah patted Collin on his back and whispered in his ear. Collin's blush made Raechel wonder what Sarah had said to him. He moved off to the side. Jamal was frowning. She felt off kilter at first and closed her eyes. Cruise turned his neck around and licked her, causing her to open her eyes suddenly and nearly topple over. Collin and Jamal went into action and rebalanced her. "Thanks. That was close." Cruise relaxed into the frame. "Yup, I'd say Cruise is definitely a good match for you. If you have trouble with balance, Collin or Jamal will be of service." Sarah observed. "Do I have to come down off his back now?" Raechel asked, not wanting to ruin the moment. "Yes, only because I want to get you started with your lessons before I go back to work." "You won't be teaching me?" Raechel didn't know if she liked this idea. She felt comfortable with Sarah in the short time since she had met her and felt like she could maybe open up to her. "No, that's my brother's job. He's the riding instructor. I'm just the boss." Sarah grinned. "I'm not so sure this is a good idea. I thought you would be teaching me. I'm not sure I will feel comfortable," Raechel lowered her voice, "having a man teach me." Sarah stood on tiptoe to reach Raechel and whispered in her ear, "Have no fear. You are already quite comfortable with your teacher." She winked. "What do you mean?" Sarah grabbed Collin's arm and brought him closer. "Raechel, meet Collin, my brother and your riding instructor. Collin, Raechel is a bit nervous about her first lesson." Raechel's heart sped up at the notion that the sweet Collin would be her teacher. "Have you ever worked with someone without legs, I mean with...." Raechel's voice showed her worries, as she gripped the saddle. "My brother works with all of our disabled riders and special needs kids. He runs the program. You have nothing to worry about. You are in good hands. I promise you." Sarah smiled encouragement. Raechel still felt apprehensive until Collin placed his large hand over hers. "Relax, you'll be fine. You're a natural with horses." He smiled and Raechel blushed even more. "I'll take care of you." "I'm not sure that I can ride another horse besides Wind. I sorta feel like I'm betraying him," Raechel confessed. "Don't worry about it. Cruise is a gentle old boy and Wind doesn't mind sharing." Collin reassured her. As if in answer Wind stuck his head out of his stall, whinnied at Raechel, and chuffed warm breath against her cheek. Raechel giggled. Collin explained the best way to hold the reins and Raechel started slumping forward a bit. Sarah rushed over to offer aid, but Collin reached under her arms and lifted her easily. "Ja, can you go to the tack room and get me one of my adaptive saddles?" He asked. "This will help support you better and you will feel less off balance and have a bit more control," Collin explained. "Don't you ever get sick of being manhandled?" Sarah questioned her, and then covered her mouth, embarrassed. "Sorry." Raechel lifted an eyebrow and looked pointedly over at Collin and then back at Sarah. "At times," she replied coyly. "I'm guessing that this wouldn't be one of those time." Holiday Wishes Upon the Wind Raechel giggled and Sarah smiled, shaking her head,"I didn't think so." "Jamal, hold Cruise steady. Sarah, put the saddle on and I'll hold Raechel," Collin instructed. Sarah placed the adaptive saddle onto the horse's back and tightened the buckles, making sure it was secure. But Collin still tested the buckles himself, ignoring the eye-roll his sister aimed in his direction. Jamal came over to the other side of them and helped Collin set Raechel back into the saddle. He took a step away once she was seated, looked at the angle to make sure she was steady, she figured. But Raechel still felt unnerved and reached out for him. He held her arm to steady her. He was so close that she noticed flecks of gold in his hazel eyes and a rim of dark green. He had large hands, roughened by working with horses. His scent was masculine with the sweetness of hay. "It's okay Raechel, this saddle is acting like a cushion to steady you. You won't fall out of it, I promise." His hand stroked her arm reassuringly. "I know, it's just that I'm afraid I'm falling in," she said quietly. "Falling in?" Collin was confused and completely missed her meaning. She was thankful for it, although the meaning didn't go unnoticed by Sarah. "Ahem. I have to get back to work in a few minutes. Collin, get Raechel started and then that's enough for today. I'm sure she needs rest," Sarah interrupted. "Raechel, you can come back tomorrow for more lessons and more time with Windy." For the next hour, Collin gave Raechel the basics; instructing her on how to hold and use the reins to guide the horse in the direction she wanted him to go. She was an attentive learner and told him that she was starting to remember her old lessons and that she felt more confident with the refresher course. Collin told her that she still had to prove herself to Sarah. She needed to show her that she could handle herself alone and for the moment she wasn't quite ready for that task. After the lessons, Raechel wheeled herself over to Wind's stall and reached her hands up to stroke his muzzle. Wind softly blew at her, sending her hair flying upward. She laughed joyfully and pulled an apple out of her pocket, handing it palm up to the horse. Wind eagerly ate it. She thanked Sarah again for the chance. Collin met her at the fence and offered to walk with her. He wore tan cowboy hat on. "How can you stand working for a race track when you know some of the horses will get injured and have to be euthanized?" Raechel asked him as they left the small farm. "I don't," he said simply. "You don't what?" Raechel blinked at him. "I don't work for the track. I don't even live around here. But when my sister told me that someone was interested in saving a horse's life, Wind's life, I wanted to be part of it. I hate the track." Collin frowned deeply. "Did she tell you I was in a chair?" Raechel couldn't think of anything to say after this bit of information. "No, she didn't. Which didn't matter, doesn't matter. What do you like, besides horses? Tell me three things." *** Raechel went back out to the tack room and stocked up on several heavy blankets she kept in the wooden chest there. She also grabbed a few flashlights and made herself a new mug of hot cocoa from the portable coffee maker that Sarah kept there. Her stomach growling, she looked into the small refrigerator for a snack. Finding nothing of interest, she closed the door and dug out a few granola bars from her saddle bag. "This'll have to do. At least the power is still on." Sarah was supposed to have a contractor coming next week to do an estimate on getting heat put into the stables. They weren't sure if it would be possible, or if they could float the work financially, but it was worth a look they thought. This morning had changed that. Raechel spotted the small electric fireplace in the corner and dragged it over to the stall. She knew Sarah wouldn't approve of her placing it in the stall with Wind, but she needed something to keep them warm. She plugged the fireplace in and set up her meager survival kit on a turned over crate. Something cracked and a loud crash resounded throughout the stable. Raechel jumped, her nerves on edge. The lights blinked and then the entire place went dark. "Crap!" The horses neighed in fright and she turned on a flashlight, making her way out of the stall and into the main drag. She shined the light into each stall to make sure the horses were all okay and then returned to Wind who was stomping his hooves in agitation. "Shh, shh boy it's okay. I'm right here. We're going to be just fine." She crooned to him, stroking his flank. "I don't know about you, but I'm tired. I think there are enough blankets here to keep my legs warm." It was imperative that Raechel keep her legs warm. She was paralyzed from the waist down and couldn't feel if her legs were cold, or worse, at risk for frost bite. She used the strength of her upper body to lift up in her chair, fought with her floppy legs to cooperate enough and slid a blanket under her butt. Then she wrapped the blanket around them and brought it up to her chin. The horse walked over and blew warm breath at her before lying down beside her. "This isn't going to work. The blankets keep sliding off. I wonder." Raechel looked down at Wind and had an idea. "Wind, come here." The horse lifted his head and looked at her, pinning his right ear back. When Windust walked over to where she was, she tossed a few of the remaining blankets into the hay and wood chips. Then she unravelled herself from the blankets, slid off her chair, and crawled over to the blankets. Wind seemed to understand, because he nodded his head, nudged her butt closer to the pile of blankets, and nuzzled her cheek before settling down beside her. She clung to his mane, using it as leverage so she could settle herself against his warm body. Wind carefully shifted his weight so that she was nestled against his stomach, away from his hooves. "How do you always know just what I need, Windy? It's like you can read my mind beautiful horse of mine. Do you know my thoughts? All I ever get from your thoughts, if that were true, is that you want more apples, more rubdowns, and wide open space to run." She chuckled to herself. "Some mind reader I am. Collin used to joke that we shared a telepathic connection and that he was jealous of you. A man being jealous of a horse, that's absurd. Sometimes, I almost believed him." Raechel rested her forehead against Wind's and another memory took hold. *** Collin cradled Raechel between his thighs. Her back was leaning against him and her legs were sticking straight out. She panted, recovering from their lovemaking session. Closing her eyes she purred as Collin ran the brush through her hair. He suggested it to relax her after the shitty day she'd had. She'd had a tough day emotionally after telling Sarah about the imbalances she found within the books of the farm's accounts. The inconsistencies suggested that Sarah's husband was stealing from them. It had been a difficult revelation for everyone. But there would be no more talk tonight. Tonight was for loving. She would have jumped into his arms and showered him with kisses at his thoughtfulness if she could have, but instead she pulled herself into a sitting position, slowly parted her thighs and invited him into her heat. Now in the aftermath, Raechel's mind eased and she basked in her husband's love. The brush stopped moving. Raechel opened her eyes when she felt a tug on her hair. "Sometimes, I'm jealous of that horse," Collin growled. "Jealous of my horse?" Raechel turned her head to look up at him and stole a kiss from his soft lips. "Yeah. It's like you two have this secret language all to yourselves. I watch you with him and the way he responds to your gentle touch and your sweet voice and well, I see in Wind's eye that he responds in just the same way I respond to you." "And how is that?" she asked, curious. Skimming his hands up her body, Collin cupped her breasts in answer. The rough skin of his thumbs moved in circles over her nipples. When they pebbled in response, Raechel arched her back. He untangled his legs form hers, grabbed several pillows to cushion her, and move around to the front of her body. "Like this," he captured both of her hands in his and drew them up above her head as she settled back against the support of the pillows. Nuzzling his nose against hers, he breathed warm breath into her ear, his tongue tracing the shell of it. Raechel giggled, struggling to loose his hold on her. "Col, you're tickling me. Windust does not lick my ear," she protested. "Or here," his lips traveled down the column of her neck, running along her collarbone, mouth curving at the shiver he always elicited when he touched her there. She whimpered. "Th-that's not at all...." Raechel shivered and blinked as she started into the intelligent eyes of her horse. Windust nuzzled her ear with his muzzle. Raechel froze, confused. "Windust?" She could have sworn Windust's brown eyes had a green tinge to them and that someone other than her horse was looking back at her. She shivered and wrapped the blankets closer. *** "Sarah's probably sick with worry right now. Why hasn't anyone noticed I'm gone? Why hasn't Old Mack come to tend the horses yet? This makes no sense. He's never been this late before." The waiting put Raechel in mind of the torturous time she went through waiting for Collin to admit his feelings to her. When he finally did, theirs had been a tumultuous love. It was wild and carefree. Collin had taught Raechel to embrace life, even as his own was fading. She tried not to hold anger in, but when she had learned that everyone was privy to Collin's heart condition except her, she had attacked those closest to her. Her relationship with Sarah was tested and the bond of their friendship was nearly broken, over the secret. She had assumed Collin's reluctance with her had been because of her own health issues. She was so hurt that she almost gave up on him and their love. Looking back on it now, there had been subtle signs that she hadn't picked up on; mostly his fatigue and trips that took him to the city that she assumed had been about horses. She learned from Sarah that they were for doctors' visits and testing. She had wanted to hate people for lying to her, for withholding the truth. She was his wife. It was her right to know he was sick! She had been holding back and keeping her emotions in check for so long. She was so drained, so tired. So sick of being the strong one for Sarah, for her mother, for the farm. All who came to Loving Care Farm and got to know them, knew that Sarah was the head of the farm, Collin was the heart, and Raechel was the soul. When the heart stopped beating; the head disconnected, the soul became empty, and the body started falling apart. The farm was in foreclosure. It was silly to even entertain the notion of heat in the stables, but they refused to give up so easily. Sarah began fundraisers and slashing the prices of lessons for the kids. She even took a part time job in the evenings. Raechel sold her house and the modest land she and Collin owned and moved onto Loving Care Farm six months after Collin's death. While her current situation worried and scared her a little - being snowed-in in a horse stable with no electricity, barely any food, only water from the horse pump, and the body heat of horses to keep her warm -- Raechel felt that this was a gift. That morning, Raechel had gotten more bad news. Sarah had no other option but to sell the horses so she could pay the bills. And while she promised Raechel she would never take Windust away from her, Raechel knew that finding Wind a new home could help them keep the house. He was worth a lot of money. She told her that as long as she felt comfortable with his new owners and that the track didn't get their hands on him, she would be okay with it. Sarah told her they would find a way. But Raechel resigned herself to the fact that most likely after the New Year, Wind would be leaving her. "And it's all that asshole Larry's fault!" Raechel yelled, startling the sleeping horse with her voice. "I'm sorry Wind." She soothed him as she thought back on the events of the last three years. Larry, Sarah's soon-to-be-ex-husband, had been pilfering the funds of the farm right out from under her nose for a couple of years. It was only after she had hired Raechel to take over the books that the inconsistencies began to show themselves. When she had brought this to Sarah's attention, she had admitted that things had been strained and she thought she was either a really poor bookkeeper or that she was losing her mind. Together, they did some searching and found out that Larry had dirty dealings with the track and with horse trades. With the evidence in hand, Sarah immediately kicked him off the farm and out of her life. After a call for assistance from Sarah, Collin came home and took up the position of horse trainer to the retired champion racer. He juggled a full schedule between his full time job as a physical therapist and running the therapeutic riding center on the farm. His background in psychology aided him when working with the children as he gave them horseback riding lessons. Collin still managed to find the time for Windust. Raechel knew that he had believed in the horse almost as much as she did. Windust was young at five years old, but an injury had ended his career and almost had ended him. His very life was hanging in the balance when Raechel swept onto the farm one day. She had seen herself in the horse; injured, lost, damaged goods and had taken up the cause of saving him. Sarah told her on the day of her's and Collin's wedding that she had developed a soft spot both for Windust and for Raechel. Raechel knew she had taken a chance on her when she offered to give her riding lessons in exchange for Raechel becoming her receptionist and bookkeeper. Raechel had feared that ousting Larry would cause a riff between their relationship, but Sarah confessed to Raechel how unhappy she had been. Separated for two years, Sarah's divorce was set to be finalized on Christmas Day. Sarah and her farm would be free of the manipulative man. Raechel found out after Collin's death that he had been working behind the scenes, bartering with people, working extra long hours, and appealing to every horse connected person he knew, to make owning Windust a reality for Raechel. Windust was to be her wedding present from her darling husband. The joyous occasion of ownership of Windust for Raechel and freedom for Sarah had become tragic when Collin had a heart attack and died suddenly that afternoon. With Collin, died all hope of ever owning Windust. That was three years ago and Larry was still wreaking havoc in their lives and the farm was as good as the bank's. Windust had brought healing and love into Raechel's life and it was killing her inside that she was giving him up. But Sarah and the rest of the farm crew had become her family. They had accepted her into her life, when those she loved and cared about had turned their backs on her. Loving Care Farm had given her home, a job, and hope. She justified her painful decision by reminding herself that if the farm still ran, the children would still find the healing and love that she found in her own most vulnerable moments. "Oh Windust, I can't do it. I can't lose you! First Collin, now you? I can't bear it. My heart's breaking. I'm breaking. Let's run away together." Raechel bit her lip to keep it from trembling. "I've changed my mind!" Her late grandmother, who had raised her, trained her that Christmas was a magical time of new life, hope, angels and miracles. Closing her eyes, Raechel rubbed her face against Wind's flank and wished into the silent night. "I wish Collin was here. I wish someone would find me and rescue me. I wish you were really mine!" She cried into the horse's shoulder as all the grief, pain, sadness, and anger, came out. Her body was wracked with trembling sobs. The horse lay his head on her lap and stared at her with his old-soul eyes, took a shuddering breath and closed them. *** Yawning, Raechel stretched and snuggled into her dear horse and closed her eyes, remembering when she had snuggled with Collin in bed every night. He would always tuck her head beneath his chin and kiss her hair. She had laughed saying he was like a horse, always nuzzling her hair, and breathing against it. He had replied that adopting horse behavior came with the territory, and that she never seemed to complain when he turned his nuzzling attention to her super sensitive breasts. Where had that thought come from? She wondered to herself. "I knew I had a reason to be jealous of that horse," a familiar voice chuckled. Raechel started and screamed. "Relax Rach, it's just me." Collin's beloved voice caressed her senses. In the faded light of the lantern, she stared up at the figure shrouded in darkness. "I'm dreaming. This can't be, can it, Wind? Wind?" The horse was asleep. She shook him. Nothing. "Windust?" "He's in a trance-like state. I had no idea horses meditated!" Collin explained. "Did you?" "You're just a figment of my overactive imagination. I'm cold. I'm hungry. I'm scared. I'm desperate." "I know, baby. Why do you think I'm here? Why do you think you can finally see me? You need me." The shadow slowly took form. Light skirted the edge of the figure and Raechel could see her husband's likeness. The honey-wheat waves of hair loose from the usual pony-tail he always wore. His hazel eyes gazed into hers, sending tingles through her body, straight to her core. " God, p-please be real," Raechel begged as he knelt before her taking her hands in his. His hands were solid enough. His lips warm and moist as he kissed across her knuckles. He reached out and stroked her hair, smiling at her. "You're so beautiful." "I miss you, Collin. What's happening? Why now?" Raechel was so confused. "Christmas wishes, my love." "But...but..." "Shh, no more questions. I'm here now. I don't know how long Windy can handle this little mind meld, or how long I have to be here before I'm called back. Let's make the most of it okay, baby?" Collin slid his arms under her shoulders and lifted effortlessly, drawing her against his chest. He unzipped and parted the material of her sweatshirt, his hands seeking the weight of her breasts. Unlatching her bra, he pushed it up to cup her breasts. Raechel shivered at the contrast of her heated skin to the cold night air. Her nipples pebbled up in response. Collin rubbed his thumbs in slow circles around her nipples, giving them a little pinch. He splayed his hand across her abdomen and bent his head to flick his tongue at the sensitive, pink peak. Raechel arched her back, pushing into him. "Oh Collin," she whimpered. "More, I need more." He laved her nipple with his tongue and suckled her breast. His fingers fluttered across the sensitive area of her abdomen. She whimpered as his warm breath entered her ear and tongue licked her lobe. He knew her most sensitive areas and wasted no time drawing delighted responses from her body. His hand on her breast continued to tease and tantalize. She tried to move away, but the action pushed her body up in invitation, into her husband's capable hands. His arm dove beneath her back and lifted her up, tilting her onto her side. "I'm real, Raechel. I'm here for the taking. Feel me." His voice pleaded, instructed, as he guided her hand down to his hardness. His clothes were gone and she reveled at his hot flesh once more in her hands. He pressed his lips to hers, tongue seeking entrance. "No, no. This is wrong. You're dead. You're a ghost. I can't...." His tongue snaked in and took the rest of the words from her. Holiday Wishes Upon the Wind "Can't enjoy yourself?" he asked. "You know me. Your body knows me. You have always known me. Before time, you knew me. Open up and give yourself to me. I know how long you've waited to be touched like this. You're so responsive, so ready for me," Collin crooned. "But you'll be gone and I'll be alone again. If we do this, it'll be like losing you all over again." Raechel felt her control slipping, she watched as his leg nudged between her thin, limp legs and moved them aside. She watched as his hand trailed up her thigh, rising past the numbness and tickling her skin on the edge of feeling. "Look into my eyes. Listen to me," he ordered softly. Raechel looked. "This is a gift. Take it for what it is. Please, baby. Do you know how lucky we are to be having this moment?" She trembled as he lifted her shirt, glided his lips across her abdomen setting her core on fire. He lifted his head and Raechel stared into those familiar hazel eyes. Allowing herself to swim in the sensations he created, she dove into the overwhelming emotions threatening to drown her in their intensity. Collin nipped at her waistline and she moaned. "I love you." Raechel breathed as he repositioned himself. He stretched her thin leg gently back, and hooked her knee over his muscled thigh so it didn't slip off. Then he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her back against him as he sheathed himself within, cradling her to his chest. Although the car accident had rendered her permanently paralyzed, Collin had been the one to patiently push her limits of feeling, evoking sensation where doctors told her there would be none. She had been pretty inexperienced when she had met Collin. She'd only been with one other guy and that was when she was in college. That experience had been nothing to write home about, and so there really wasn't much she could remember to compare lovemaking with before the accident to lovemaking now. Raechel couldn't feel her labia or even her clitoris, but somehow when Collin touched it with his tongue, her stomach muscles tightened in response. Collin angled himself and when he aimed upwards he swept against her sweet spot. He slid out, pushed back in, stroked her G-spot. The muscles of her abdomen beneath his hands jumped in reaction. A pressure built deep within Raechel and when Collin's teeth grazed her neck, she crashed, flinging her head back and crying out. Collin continued to rock within her, his hands traveling up and down her feminine curves. He rolled her nipples with his fingers. He sucked on the flesh of her neck. His balls tightened and he grunted, slamming into her, shouting her name. "I need more. More of you. More of us. More time!" she pleaded, emotions and memories sweeping her away. "I love you!" "I love you." He whispered, kissing her hair. "One wish granted. Two to go." Collin said mysteriously. Raechel looked back at him, quirking her brow at the impish grin on his face. "Sleep my love and know I am always with you. Always and forever. ." *** Warm breath bathed Raechel's face. A snorting sound startled her awake. Memories of Collin faded into the background, along with the pleasure, which still hummed through her body from her phantom husband. "Oh Wind," she cried, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Dammit! NO! Come back! Please, please, Collin, come back to me," Raechel wailed. "It's not fair," she sobbed uncontrollably. Noting the power was still out, Raechel sat up to check her legs. She blinked down at herself. Her midriff showed and her bra was unlatched in the back. She wondered how that had happened. Was it possible Collin had really been here? She shook her head and unwrapped the blankets. Her legs were still warm and fine. She latched her bra, tucked her shirt in, and re-wrapped the blankets around herself. A tinkling sound came from the distance. Both Raechel and Windust cocked their ears to listen. It sounded oddly like the chime of sleigh-bells. The last time she had heard sleigh-bells was three years ago, the most bittersweet day of her life. *** "What's the excitement about? It's so cold out!" She shivered in his arms. "I shouldn't be out in this cold, what if my legs get frost bitten?" Raechel asked a very giddy Collin. She had been jolted awake by a freezing, cold, wet-something in her face. Collin stood in the doorway with his winter coat and ski pants on, gloves, hat, and a snow ball in his hand. He had just whinged a snow ball at her face. "What the hell, Collin!" she screamed. "What are you, twelve? I'm all wet!" "Wake up sleepyhead. It snowed last night! We have to go out and play in it." He sounded just like a twelve year old, too. "Seriously? Ohmygod, get out of here with that! I am not going anywhere until I have my hot cocoa and you know that," Raechel huffed. "Cocoa is waiting on the counter. Get up." He tore the blankets off her. Raechel glared at her husband. "This is how you wish me a Happy Anniversary?" It was their first wedding anniversary. While she loved surprises and expected one of him, this was not what she'd had in mind. She lowered the electric bed and reached for her chair. "You don't need the chair, baby," he said, rushing forward and swooping in on her. "Wha--?" She gasped as he slid his hands under her atrophied legs and lifted her into his arms. "Coat. Where's your coat?" he asked. "On the coat rack. Put me in my chair Collin. What is with you?" Without answering her, he dashed into the living room, grabbed her coat and plunked it on her. He dropped her onto the couch and gathered the rest of her winter-wear. Quickly and clumsily he threw the rest of the clothes on her, shoving her feet into the silly boots and stuffing her hands into her gloves. He tossed her scarf around her neck, cinched up her hood, and lifted her once more. "Where are we going in such a hurry?" Raechel asked. "You'll seeeee..." he sang. She had never seen her husband so giddy and animated before. It made her head spin. "Close your eyes, my beautiful wife," he instructed. She glared. "Or else I'll blindfold you and have my way with you," he challenged as he stomped out of the house. "All right, all right. I'm closing them. No need to blindfold me and you can have your way with me later. It's entirely too early...." Raechel's jaw dropped open and tears filled her eyes. "Collin..." she gasped. "Oh my god, it's, it's..." "A sleigh ride all for you, my fair maiden." He beamed at her, kissed at the tear trickling down the corner of her eye and gently eased her onto the red, leather, covered seat. He lifted her legs and wrapped her in a fleece blanket and a couple of layers and then took his seat beside her. "Driver, we're ready." He told the man in the front seat holding the reins. The driver looked back at them, winked, and nodded his head, his white beard floating in the wind. Raechel knew it was Old Mack their neighbor, but he was dressed as Santa Claus and looked so authentic that she did a double-take. He wore a dark, fur-lined, red, velvet Santa suit that had a black leather belt with a wide, gold clasp over his tubby belly. His white gloves held the reins and he gave them a little tug. Off they went. Both horses, Windust and Cruise, neighed and pawed at the ground before taking off at a gallop. The sled glided effortlessly across the snow as Collin tucked Raechel against his side and kissed her cheek. The tinkling of bells resounded in the still air. *** "Bells. Tinkling of bells. That's where I know that sound! Windust, someone must be in that old sleigh!" Raechel exclaimed excitedly. "Oh, that means I'm rescued! Collin was right. I wished for him first and he came. Then I wished to be found and rescued." Raechel watched and listened eagerly as she heard pounding and the sound of a saw right outside the stable door. "Raechel, you in here honey?" The deep voice carried through the slats of wood. "Yes, I'm here! I'm right here!" she shouted back. "Stand, err....sorry, wheel away from the door. I'm coming in!" The voice warned her. Raechel was still on the ground. Her chair was too far out of reach and she was trying to conserve her energy. She leaned against Windust and held her breath as she heard a chainsaw start up. "Almost there!" The voice outside promised. She recognized Old Mack's voice right away. It was the deepest most resonant voice she'd ever heard. It was easy to see that was the reason the town had nominated him as the official Santa Claus. He was the perfect man for the job. "Okay Mack, I'm out of the way." She let him know. Sawdust flew into the barn. The horses stomped their hooves, whinnied, neighed, and gnashed their teeth together nervously. There was nothing Raechel could do to calm them down other than talk softly to them, which she did. Old Mack's round, apple-cheeked face appeared in the crack of the stable door. He was grinning from ear to ear as he rammed the door with his shoulder. Raechel wondered how that could be safe for him to do at his age, but breathed a sigh of relief as he jimmied the swollen wooden door open. "Ah, there we go." He beamed at her. "Let's get you out of here, honey. You must be chilled to the bone and famished. I have hot cocoa and cookies in the sleigh." He was dressed as Santa Claus! The promise of warmth was enough. Raechel wrapped her arms around his neck as he scooped her up. She giggled when his whiskers tickled her cheek. "Thanks Old M-- Santa Claus." She hugged him close and blew a kiss to Windust. "You sit tight and old Saint Nick will get you home in the wink of an eye," he promised. He set Raechel on the familiar red, leather seat and took up his place behind the horses. Her eyes widened. "Are those real deer?" She gasped, pointing to, what could only be described as reindeer in the front of the sleigh. He winked at her, tapped his nose, and took gave the reins a jerk. The sleigh held such memories for her, she was afraid she would start crying all over again. But then she remembered Collin's anniversary and Christmas gift to her. As they had sat together in the sleigh, singing Christmas carols and reminiscing about their childhoods Christmases, he handed her a card. The the card promised that by January, Windust would be hers, forever. She had been so happy and excited, she had cried with joy in his arms. Those tears of mirth and love had turned very quickly into tears of sorrow and shock. When they returned from their magical sleigh-ride, Collin jumped off the sleigh and lifted his hand to Raechel's . She grasped them and in a display of chivalry, he placed a kiss across her knuckles. She giggled and blushed at him. As he was about to pick her up and help her down, he stumbled back and fell in the snow. So began the end. But now, right this moment, the positive memories of love and life overshadowed the sorrow. And for once, Raechel was able to smile at the memories. "On Dasher, on Dancer...." Santa Claus shouted. Raechel watched closely, telling herself that if the sleigh suddenly began to rise into the air, she didn't know what she would do. "I love granting wishes!" Santa shouted back to her. "Ho Ho HO, Merry Christmas Raechel!" *** "Raechel! Raechel!" A familiar high-pitched voice screeched. Someone was shaking her shoulders. "Ugh, go away. It's too early." Raechel complained, squinting an eye open to see who was disturbing the most fantastic dream of her life. "Raechel, oh God, are you all right?" She opened both eyes fully. Sarah's worried face was inches from hers. "How long have you been sitting out here on the step in this cold? How did you get out here? Where the heck is your chair?" She rambled on and on. "Don't know. Chair is in the barn. Santa Claus, I mean Old Mack came and rescued me," she answered. "What? Raechel, do you have a fever?" Raechel brushed Sarah off when she felt her forehead. "I'm fine, just hungry. Can you get my spare chair for me from the closet?" Sarah rushed off and came back with it, helping her into the chair. "Come inside and sit by the fire. I'll get you some cocoa." Raechel started giggling "Cocoa and cookies. He never did give me any." "What? Rach, you aren't making any sense. Start from the beginning." And so she did. She told Sarah exactly what had happened. She remembered everything up until the point of Santa Claus wishing her a Merry Christmas, the rest was a blur. The next thing she knew she was being shaken awake on the steps. "Impossible!" Sarah breathed. "I know it seems impossible. I can't really explain it otherwise, but I swear it was all so real. You should have seen Old Mack, Sarah. He looked just like he did the day Collin surprised me on our anniversary with the sleigh ride. Do you remember?" "No. It's impossible, Raechel. Old Mack died last night of a heart attack. I never came home last night because I was in the hospital with him. And, I can't explain your um..." Sarah blushed. "You're interlude with Collin, except that, well you were probably fevered but...." "Old Mack is dead?" Raechel gaped at the news. "If he's dead, then who rescued me?" "Sweetie, I don't know. He's definitely dead. I was with him when he took his last breath. And you know what's odd? His last sentence was about you! Isn't that odd? He had the weirdest message for you too." Sarah pursed her lips. "What did he say? What did he want you to tell me?" "He also gave me something to give you. So odd. Anyway, he said 'Tell Raechel, wish granted,' and then he handed me this to give you. So here." Sarah handed Raechel a gilded envelope with her name on it. Her hands trembled and fumbled trying to open it. Sarah laid her hands on top of them. "Here, let me get a letter opener. I'll help you. You need to rest and recover. I don't how you got out of that barn with that huge tree blocking the way, but here you are and well, I just simply can't explain it." Sarah walked over to her antique desk, opened the drawer, and pulled out a letter opener. She handed it to Raechel. "If Old Mack is gone, who's going to be Santa Claus for the children?" Raechel asked as she gently slid the letter opener under the sealed flap of the envelope. "Jamal will be back this afternoon and will stand in for him. It won't be the same, but it'll have to work for now." Raechel took out the letter and started reading. My Beloved Raechel, If you are reading this, then I am no longer with you. My heart finally gave, but I swear I am watching over you. I'm sorry for the secrecy about my health. I didn't want to worry you and didn't want to burden you. I thought it was something the doctors could treat and make better. I'm sorry. I never wanted to hurt you. Please forgive me, baby. I wanted to safeguard my gift to you. You know that Old Mack is like our adoptive grandfather. He's come to love you as much as he loves Sarah and I. After my last trip to the hospital, I went over and asked to borrow the money needed to buy Windust for you. Old Mack would hear no such thing and suggested we barter, instead. Sarah agreed to mate Windust to Old Mack's mare, Sky Dancer. He would keep the foal and in exchange, pay the track for Windust, himself. The deal was made. The foal is due to be born in early March, but Old Mack knows how much you love Windust. In this letter you will find the legal papers stating that Windust is yours. I made him swear secrecy. I was unable to give you Windust for a wedding gift, but I hope Windust for what was to be our third anniversary makes up for that. We've done it, Raechel. Windust is yours forever, baby! Here are the papers, signed, sealed, and just now delivered to your door. I told you wishes come true if you just believed. I love you! Always and Forever and Everlasting, Your Collin PS: Sarah, I know you are probably reading over Raechel's shoulder right now. There's a gift for you too. I hope it makes up for the struggle. I love you, big sis. Raechel stared at Sarah. Sarah stared at Raechel, not believing what they had just read. "S-Sarah, there's another letter here with your name on it." Raechel handed the envelope to her. "Wind's mine! He's mine. Windust is really and truly mine!?" Sarah ripped open her letter and began to read, nodding her head. "Well what is it? Is it a letter from Collin?" "Collin has secured land for a larger farm for us." Sarah replied as she read, dumbfounded. "But, can we afford a larger farm?" Raechel questioned. "There's more. There's another paper. It-it's a Will." "Collin's?" "No. Mack O'Donnell. He left his entire fortune to Loving Care Farm. He had no living relatives left and thought of me and Collin as his own grandchildren." "What? Old Mack left you...wait, he had a fortune?" "Apparently. And there's more. Oh wow." Sarah's voice was thick with emotion. "What, what is it?" Raechel bounced in her seat with anticipation. "My divorce papers! The law finally caught up with Larry. He signed the papers right before they tossed his butt in jail. Rach, do you know what this means?" Now, Sarah trembled. "It means we're saved. We aren't going under. We don't have to sell a single horse. We have bigger land to expand and accept more children and persons with special needs to our farm. I'm free! You get to keep Windust." "My third wish was granted and I got to have the most magical Christmas ever. An angel in the guise of Santa Claus rescued me, saved the farm, and allowed me one more moment with my husband." A wellspring of emotion rose up in Raechel as she wheeled forward and clutched her sister. They embraced with tears streaming down their faces. "Merry Christmas and Happy Anniversary, Raechel," Sarah kissed her cheek. "Merry Christmas, Sarah," Raechel whispered back. "I guess my Grandma was right, Christmas wishes can come true." ~~~~ I have to give a huge thank you to estragon for critiquing and copy-editing for me. He gave me sound advice on a few of the more sensitive aspects that came up when writing about this subject. This story would not be as authentic as it is without MidniteRose's guidance. Being a wheelchair user herself, she helped me make sure that Raechel's experience with paralysis stayed on track and that her wheelchair usage was believable. Thank you! Thank you, Nightshade for your support and for sharing so much to help this story come to life. Happy Holidays to One and All. My wish is for you to have gratitude and find contentment in what you do have, but not to stop believing in the magic of possibilities - including love! Holiday Wishes A gentle hand touches her out-stretched left hand while another, almost too comfortably, rests on her right waist. A strong, firm force steadies Maureen, bringing her to an upright standing position. Maureen glances at the glasses in each hand, none had spilled. "As much as I dislike this hand, the person attached to it seems nice enough." Chris says quietly into Maureen's left ear. Maureen almost shivers at the sound of his voice. It is purely unintentional and, until this point, Maureen had not realized that she had found him so attractive. Yes, he is interesting. He is a mystery because she knows there is something there. Well, perhaps not "know" but it is more like an equal attraction. Enough of an attraction for her to glance over at him every now and again. Perhaps Maureen is changing and becoming more mature? He is definitely different from anyone she had ever liked. Then again, it could be the alcohol in her system talking and mixing up the fact that she has been feeling lonely for some time. Maybe it is using this loneliness along with her attraction to Chris. It could be all of that but then again, it will never turn out right. It never will. Wait. Maureen's logical center commands. What is wrong with this? She has not even started the relationship to see if it will go anywhere! Maureen almost nods. This may be nothing big or long term. But this is something she needs. Whatever, she shakes her head. "I guess I have had a little too much to drink." She hears herself say to him followed by a giggle. Maureen cringed. Did she just giggle? Oh God. "What?" Chris asks looking at her while helping her move forward. "I thought the same exact thing just the second after it came out of my mouth." Maureen says, silently thanking whoever was looking out for her. Chris smiles at her. It is a nice smile and it looks to Maureen as genuine a smile as ever. It has real warmth behind it. Chris winks at her and turns to face forward, still guiding her along a few more paces. "Are you okay to make it back to your table?" he asks as he glances over at her group of friends. Maureen nods. With a smile, she says, "Yes. I think I can make it there. Thank you." Maureen turns to face her friends. Maureen can see that they were all looking or pointing in her direction. A couple of them were smiling widely at her. His hands release Maureen. She can tell he stood around for a few seconds longer as he watches her move off. Hopefully, he is checking her balance and not her features from behind. Maureen did not like the way she looks from behind. However, she found that she like the fact that he is waiting to make sure she is okay before going back to his friends. Suddenly, Maureen found herself facing him. Her mind tells her that she had lost her balance and is falling forward. Or is it backwards, since she is now facing him? Maureen found it odd to be asking herself this question as she is falling. Someone had moved by Maureen quickly and bumped into her. Maureen could feel a pair of hands grab her arms to hold her in place. Her body, however, screams unexpectedly. Maureen did not realize how sensitive her body is tonight. She feels her nipples graze his chest through the material of her shirt. Her mind focuses on the feeling like tiny electric shocks of pleasure reaching into her mind from her nipples. Maureen almost curses when the excitement of it and the feeling of her body fill her mind. Chris moves his hands to help her steady herself and bring her back to a standing position. This made it worse for Maureen. She could feel herself moving slightly to the side, making her nipples move along his body again before being steadied. Maureen will think back on this and wonder if it is a combination of the drinks, her attraction to Chris and or the fact that she has not been with someone for a long time. Maybe it is just because of the conversation she had with the girls that stuck in the back of her mind when the shock of the sensation reveals her excitement. "Are you..." Chris did not get to finish his question. Maureen could feel herself lean in and he seems to be doing the same. "Hrmph!" he says as someone bumps into them from both sides. Maureen could feel herself pushed up against him while someone bumps into him. His arms hold her steady but more of their body touched. She could feel his lips touch the corner of her lips. However, Maureen's eyes closes as her mind takes in the feel of his body against her body. She shivers and her body almost melts onto him. Suddenly, Chris pulls back, putting an inch or two of space between them. Maureen opens her eyes and sees him looking at her. "I'm sorry!" he says with equal honest emotion showing on his face. Maureen shakes her head and says, almost laughing, "It is okay. Interesting timing." "Okay, maybe we should head to our respective corners before we get pushed into some positions even more embarrassing or awkward." he finishes with a wink. Maureen wants him to try a couple of those positions. Her body nods and her mind want to agree. Instead, Maureen smiles and nods. As Maureen walks away, she turns her head to look at him over her left shoulder. She could see that Chris is still standing there, looking at her. "It was not that bad a position." Maureen says to him. Chris chuckles as he winks at her and then turns toward the bar. "Did he just kiss you?" Annie asks as Maureen reaches the table. "No." Maureen laughs, "Plenty of pushing and shoving out there." "It sure looked like a kiss from here." Maureen heard Annie say as she turns to look over once more. She could barely see the table where Chris and his friends were sitting. "You want to keep me company? I need a smoke." Julie asks before Maureen could sit down. Maureen nods. She is feeling a bit too warm and still a little buzzed. The cool air should help, she thinks to herself. Her drink can definitely wait. Maureen steps aside to let her coworker stand. Julie takes Maureen's wrist so that they can head out together. Maureen thinks it is a good thing because the crowd seems to sway and people keeps pushing into both of the. As Maureen and Julie near the bar, they could see Chris holding two pitchers of beer. Chris sees Maureen approach and stops moving. He almost loses his balance as someone from behind shoves into him. Smirking in the direction of the offender, he quickly steadies himself. Turning back towards Maureen, he winks. Julie stops near him and leans in to say something to him. Maureen can see him lean his head down a little so he can hear her. Chris nods to her in response, she guess it was a question. Julie pulls back, smiles and resumes walking in the direction of the door. Chris steps to the side so they can pass. Crap, Maureen thinks to herself. Maureen opens her mouth to ask Julie what she asked Chris but feels herself being shoved from behind. Maureen reaches forward with her free hand to steady herself. "Ow." Chris says into Maureen's ear. I'm sorry!" Maureen says to him as she looks up. "Um, okay. But could you not squeeze so hard?" Maureen is confused so she looks down at her hand. Her hand, it seems, landed right around his crotch area. "I would help you remove your hand but my hands are otherwise occupied." Chris says to Maureen, lifting the two pitchers in each hand. "Oh my." Julie says, "You are such a forward woman." She looks down at Maureen's hand. Julie grins and looks up at Maureen, "Aren't you?" Maureen immediately snatches her hand back. "I didn't mean to. Honest!" Maureen says loud enough for the both of them to hear. "Mm-hm." Julie says, unconvinced. Before Maureen can say anything, Julie tugs at her wrist. "Come on, let's go before you start to do the nasty with him right here." "I..." Maureen starts to say but she could feel herself moving towards the door. Maureen turns to look over her shoulder at Chris. Chris laughs, and then nods in her direction and raising one pitcher in salute. Maureen mouths the word 'sorry' towards him. * * * Maureen asks Julie what she had said to Chris. Julie laughs and says, "I asked him if he was single." She takes a drag from her cigarette and continues, "Since you were too afraid to ask." Julie winks and shrugs, "I definitely had nothing to lose so I asked for you." Maureen laughs, "Thanks but he is not my type." "He may not be your type but you've been staring him naked the last couple of hours." "What do you mean by 'staring him naked'?" Maureen asks, curious. "When you look at him," Julie says and takes another drag, "it looks like you are imagining him naked. You know, the way you look at him." Maureen turns to face Julie. "How long has it been?" Julie asks. Maureen thinks she understands the question but Maureen asks anyway, "What do you mean?" "You know." Julie says, pointing her cigarette in Maureen's direction. "How long has it been since you have been intimate with someone?" "I..." Maureen starts to say, trying to figure it out in her head. "That long, huh?" Julie laughs. Maureen can feel her cheeks turn red. This is something she rarely discussed honestly with anyone, her self even, let alone with a coworker. She sighs and shrugs unable to help it. They both turn their heads in the direction of the door as they hear it open and the noise from the bar grows louder for a moment. They can see Chris stepping out. He turns and sees them. Smiling, he walks in their direction. "Well," Julie says as she takes a last drag and drops the remainder onto the ground. "Let me let you get to business." Julie says as she snuffs out the cigarette with her foot. A cone of smoke flies fro the corner of Julie's lips as she walks in the direction of Chris. "You really should give her your number, you know." Julie says to Chris as she passes him. Chris stops; a curious look fills his face. He turns towards Maureen. Maureen watch his approach, she remembers the feel of him. Her body remembers more clearly than her mind. The memory of the touch of her nipples running across his chest made her shiver again. Maureen wonders if it is the effects of the alcohol or if it is the effects of too many lonely nights. She wonders, remembering the conversation with the girls. "Hi." Chris says as he stops in front of Maureen. "Hey." She responds. "How are you feeling?" He asks. "Good." Maureen says but decided to continue, "Better. It was getting a bit warm in there." Chris nods as Maureen looks into his eyes. Maureen notes that they seem a creamy sort of brown. She did not notice them before. Maureen should have noticed when they were so close from each other earlier. "Heh." He says with a shrug. Maureen could not help but feel that there is something about him. She thinks about the touch again and Maureen could feel a strong desire to feel him growing. She did not want the conversation to end. It is strange to think that she would want to continue the conversation. Maureen has never been big about conversations especially when they are about nothing. Thinking fast, she asks, "What about you? How are you feeling?" "Beat up." Chris says quickly then reaches up with a hand to rub the back of his head. He chuckles. Maureen imagines grabbing him, pushing him against the wall. She wants to feel him against her body again. She wants to feel her nipples touch his skin. Maureen could feel her body responding to her thoughts and she feels herself shifting her feet. Maureen laughs, a little too fast, she thought. "I am really sorry about hitting you." "It is okay. I am over it." Chris laughs. "However, the guys will never let me live it down though." "Oh..." Maureen says. From experience, Maureen knows that men usually do not like it when they are embarrassed in front of their friends. Not that it would not embarrass women or her but it is definitely a big hit to a man's ego. The experience usually sours any relationship or makes it that much more difficult to continue the relationship. "Don't worry." Chris says to Maureen. A grin spreads across his face, "I told them you felt me up when I went to get them beer." Maureen laughs, remember her hand on his crotch. Her left hand twitches, resisting the idea of reaching out again to touch him there. The feel of it again would be great. The thought of it pulsing to life in her palms, ready to give her pleasure... Maureen shakes her head and looks into his eyes, "I didn't hurt you there did I?" Chris chuckles and says, "Don't worry. Takes a lot to get him all excited." Maureen looks slightly disappointed, she wonders if he is gay. Chris realizes what he said and quickly adds, "Wait, that sounded bad. You can get him really excited fast." Maureen giggles. "Um, that sounded bad too didn't it?" Chris says, blushing. Before it registers in Maureen's mind, her body moves forward. Perhaps it is punishment for not paying attention or the fact that she was not in control of her own body but she realizes her mis-step and trips forward. Everything seems to move in slow motion from that point on. Maureen could see the slow shift in expression on Chris's face from calm conversational look to surprise. Maureen's hands fall out in front of her and she sees him moving forward. The next thing Maureen knows is that she is falling forward. "Umph!" Maureen heard Chris say. It did not feel bad to her. Maureen opens her eyes and realizes why. She lays on top of him while he lays on the sidewalk. "Oh my..." Maureen starts to say. Chris laughs underneath her. Maureen is relieved. If he is hurt, he would probably not be laughing. He must think she is an idiot or some accident prone woman. She cannot understand what is going on with her tonight. Maureen, then, feels it when she looks down into his eyes. Chris stops laughing and part of Maureen's mind wonders how he had enough blood to color his cheeks too. All of Maureen agrees. It feels good. Not only does it feel good to her body but to her ego. Yes, he is excited. Then again, so is Maureen. Chris moves to get up. Awkwardly, Maureen allows him to help her up. As both of them gain their feet, the feel of his hands seem to drive Maureen. She looks into his eyes and she can almost see the same desire burning in them. She leans in, no distance between the two of them to drip on, and her lips touch his lips. Maureen can see his eyes close as the feel of her lips move against his. Chris moves his lips against her lips, soft and gentle. Maureen wanted to kiss him harder. She could feel his hands move along her arm and back. His body moves close and his excitement still evident, now against her. Maureen's body moves on it's own. She did not understand it but enjoys the feeling and knowledge of what is to come. Her hand reaches his side and her other hand touches the back of his head. Maureen is not sure but she thinks she could hear him moan slightly. His hands move, one slides up her back while the other moves along her arm. Chris parts his lips and she could feel the gentle touch of his tongue. Maureen opens her lips, sliding her tongue out to meet his. Slowly, her tongue moves. At first, just touching his tongue. Then, gently, her tongue moves deeper to explore his mouth. Maureen could feel his lips close ad surround her tongue. Maureen shivers as she feels him gently suck, pulling her tongue into his mouth. She almost moans as her hands presses against the back of his head. Chris moves his hand up along her back, slowly towards her neck. His other hand moves to touch her lower back. Maureen's mind can barely follow their movements as she feels his lips release her tongue. The tip of his tongue moves along her tongue, following in a soft seductive line into her mouth. There she can feel him explore, still slowly, teasing the tip of her lip, teeth and tongue. Maureen can feel his hand on her lower back move down towards her bottom. Maureen almost giggles, realizing she still calls it a 'bottom'. Chris presses his hand against her ass. Maureen feels her hips move forward, guided by his hand. She could feel his excitement pressing against her. Maureen's mind fills in the gaps where her body does not feel. She could imagine it pulsing, so warm and soft yet so hard against her. Her legs spread slightly, wanting to feel more of it. She feels her body being guided. Maureen moves her feet and her hands cling to his body. Something hard presses against her back and she realizes Chris has moved her against the wall. Maureen opens her eyes and she can see that both of them had move further down, away fro the door and windows of the bar. The lights point away from this location and she can see the street is empty. Chris pulls from the kiss, breathing heavily. "Are you okay with this?" In answer, she leans in to kiss him. Chris responds with equal passion in his kiss. Yes! Maureen's mind says. Chris moves his hand from her bottom (she means 'ass'). Maureen feels the wall against her back and now her ass. She can feel his hand still on the back of her head pushing her against his mouth. Chris moves his free hand to her hip. It slides along her and she can feel the warmth of his touch through her shirt. It slides up and touches the side of her breast. Maureen's mind orders him to move his hand to her nipples. Her body shivers again and she presses her hips up against his hips. She continues to kiss him as she feels his fingers close around her breast. Maureen catches her breathe as his fingers squeezes her breast slowly. Her mind's eye following the fingers as they move towards her nipple. Her only annoyance is the fact that her clothes and bra are in the way of feeling his skin on her skin. Maureen shivers as his lips move from her lips. She opens her eyes, realizing she had gasped aloud. Her mind notes the empty street as her body continues to enjoy the experience. Chris moves his lips down along her neck. The warmth of his lips feels hot against her skin while small electric waves of pleasure spreads down her spin with the feel of his fingers. They squeeze gently but firm enough to her body to react to the touch. Maureen moves her hand from his head and arm. She slides her hands down his body, exploring every muscle she can experience. She can feel her legs move as her body is pushed against the wall to give enough space between their hips. Her hands move down between them as the roughness of his belt scrap against her palms. She reaches lower and feels it. It is just as she imagined and how her body felt it to be. Yes, it is there. It's thickness almost itches her hand as she slides along his length through his pants. She hears and feels him moan against her shoulder as his lips kiss along her. Maureen gasps again, as his fingers squeezes her nipple once more. Another wave of pleasure runs along her spin and body. Her legs feel weaker than before. Somewhere in the back of her logical mind, Maureen is very glad the wall is there. Her hands grip him through his pants, squeezing him. She moves her hand along it, slowly and carefully. Maureen feels his teeth graze against her shoulder. This sensation combines with the tightness of pressure around her nipples sends her body to another level of pleasure. Her mind follows the movement of his hand moving to the back of her head. Chris releases her breast and his hand moves up to the first button of her shirt. He stops for a second and pulls back to look at her. Chris waits to see if Maureen tells him to stop. His face lights up with a deeper smile as she does not stop him. His other hand reaches the button and starts to work on releasing it. Maureen looks down to see his fingers moving to unbutton her shirt. Glancing around once more sees no one on the street so her eyes fall back to his fingers. Her chest moves up and down, breathing with excitement as her body tingles with anticipation. It really has been a long time, she thinks. In a strange way, the fact that they are outside made it more exciting. She knows there is only so far she is willing to go out in public but it does not stop it from being an exciting situation. Then again, it could be the alcohol. It really did not matter. At least this is what her body is telling her mind. Holiday Wishes Maureen giggles at the thought. It is not that funny but for some reason the idea of her body telling her mind something is funny. She notices that he stopped unbuttoning halfway down. She looks up to find his eyes looking into her eyes. "Sorry, I was not laughing at you. Just a funny thought." She says to him. Chris smiles and leans forward slowly. Her eyes follow his as he leans forward. From the edge of her vision, she could see him reaching up with his hand. The warmth of his fingers touches her skin and moves, sliding underneath the bra strap by her right shoulder. Maureen could feel him sliding the strap down over her shoulder. As the strap is moved away from her shoulder, the fingers slide down and carefully pull the cup of the bra down. She could feel the tension of the bra release her right breast. Her eyes move from his eyes down to his lips as his head continues to move forward. Maureen's lips part slightly as she sees his lips part. The touch of his lips against her breasts is even more electrical than the excitement earlier. Yes, her body agrees. The touch of his lips on her skin and the feel of his movements cause her body to concentrate on those feelings. She could feel her hips move slightly against his excitement. Maureen could not close her eyes but the desire to concentrate on only the feeling is great. Still, she looks at him. She watches his lips pull against her skin. She could feel the sensation of her soft skin in contrast to the more rough pull of his mouth. Yet it is perfect. It is not as rough as the word rough used to describe it. It is more of a strong and steady pull. Maureen does close her eyes as she feels his lips squeeze around her nipple. The pleasure of this action runs along her spine and sends a wave of pleasurable shiver out along her body. She almost screams as his tongue follows the squeezing of her nipples with a flick of his tongue along her still captured nipple. She wonders if she had said anything or gasped too loudly. Her eyes open, trying to remember what she did that second. Her mind blank with the pleasure of the moment, she could only hear herself breathing hard now. A hand touches her stomach. She can feel it move down to her waist. Her eyes still on his lips holding her nipple. Her hands move up to touch his head and her fingers slide into his hair. Chris did not move, his lips still gently sucking her nipple. It is not really a thing that most women like. No, not all women find it pleasurable to have their nipples sucked. The fact that she seems to enjoy it more made Chris excited. He allows his lips to relax then slowly suck against her nipple again. He did not use his tongue then but would every now and again. Chris is curious to the rest of her. His hand touches her belt as it moves down from her stomach. Maureen did not follow the movements of his hand, her mind still occupied by the pleasure of his lips. She found the touch of his soft and silky lips amazing. It is like being stroked along her skin with silk. It does not burn or hurt, it feels good. It is like tasting her favorite food for the first time in a long time. Words cannot adequately describe it. It is pleasure in its simplest form. Her body shakes from every pull of his mouth and with each flick of his tongue over her captured nipple; she would open her mouth wider. Her eyes still closed, her mind is aware of his fingers. Chris could feel the movement of her hips. It is maddening, almost, to feel her so close moving against him. His hardness trapped within his pants while she moves herself against him and along him. He may not be the biggest or longest but the way she is moving along him, it sure made him feel like he had something good. She moves her hands to his shoulders, her fingers gripping him. Maureen can feel him undoing her belt and pant button. Her eyes open and look down. She can still see him sucking her nipple and can almost make out his fingers moving along her pant waist. She feels his fingers start to pull at her zipper. Chris moves his fingers up along her, now available, panties. His fingers start to move back down as they reach the top of her panties. Maureen gasps as she feels two fingers press against her. She concentrates and looks up into his eyes. Chris releases her nipple as his eyes meet her eyes. His head pulls away, almost standing straight up. Maureen is too invested in the feelings her body is relaying to her mind. If she was not caught up in the moment, she would have realized how exposed she is standing there with one breast hanging out of her bra and shirt. Her eyes were still on his and her mind was following his fingers. Her body moves and shivers reacting to the pleasure, waiting for more pleasure. Chris leans in and Maureen expects a kiss. Her eyes half close and she leans forward, waiting with her lips. Instead, she feels him by her left cheek. She hears him whisper, "I am wondering how excited you are right now. She takes a deep breath as his fingers move up along her pussy, over her panties. The fingers feel good, she thought, even through her clothes. Maureen knows how excited she is and knows he will know when he touches her there any more. She wants to tell him but he continues to whisper. "I want to touch you." he whispers as his fingers move down over her panties. Maureen's body starts to shake slightly and she closes her eyes. She is more afraid to say anything. Her body has most of her consciousness aware of the pleasure it is feeling. Her mouth would betray her at any moment. "I can stop here if you want me to stop." his voice whispers into her ear. Oh God, Maureen thinks. Even the sound of his voice, his whispering is pleasurable. She could feel his face move from her cheek. She opens her eyes and finds him looking at her. At this point, she looks down. She could see his fingers moving up along her panties. Her eyes almost hypnotized by it as it moves up along her panties, sliding along her pussy. She could see his other hand appear within her field of vision. Chris leans forward, blocking her view of his fingers. His lips touch her lips. Her eyes close as their lips kissed. Her mind and body feels the tip of his fingers touch her skin under her shirt. She could feel his body shift slightly to allow him more access for his fingers. Maureen kisses him carefully as her mind continues to follow the movement of his fingers. They slide slowly, almost gently along her skin. The fingers move along the top of her pubic region as the fingers spread away from each other. Her lips move, almost mechanically as he kisses her. His tongue teases her lips now and again but her mind follows his fingers. Chris slides his fingers away from the center of her panties. He loves the smooth feel of her skin. His fingers stop when they reach the hips. He moves his fingers up, leaving the tips between her panties and skin. Maureen feels the palms of his hands against her naked skin on her hips. It is a warm and wonderful feeling. She notices his hand is not calloused. Chris moves his hands as she kissed her. He moves his left palm along towards her back while his other hand moves forward, going between them. She is surprised at how coordinated Chris seems to be. She could feel both hands moving at the same time. One hand moves behind her and slides over her bottom. (Ass. She means ass.) The other hand slides between them with his palm against her stomach and the top of her pubic region. Her hips move involuntarily. His fingers spread, the index finger and the middle finger spread to form a 'v'. As his fingers spread, his hand slides down. He hears her gasp and feels her push against his hand as he moves his hand down slowly. Maureen moans into his mouth as she feels his fingers move along each side of her pussy. Her hips move, applying a little pressure against his fingers and her pussy. She kisses him still as her mind follows his fingers pressing against her. Chris found it hard to concentrate. He wants to hold off a little. His fingers move down, pressing and sliding along the sides of her pussy. She feels his fingers stop just as the curve between his index finger and middle finger stops before touching her clit. Her hips move up, sliding her pussy against his hand. Chris squeezes her ass cheek with his other hand while his other hand starts to move back up. Maureen is amazed at how excited she feels. She wanted him to touch her clit but this movement has her body on high in the sensitivity area. She almost stops kissing him as she follows his fingers. He continues to move his fingers, this time back up and away from her pussy. His palm slides against her skin as his fingers slide up along the sides of her pussy. He gently sucks on her lower lip as he moves his fingers back down again. He is again careful not to slide his fingers into her. She shivers as his fingers press and slide against the sides of her pussy. She wants him to slide his fingers into her. She needs him to touch her clit. Chris allows for the movement of her hips as his fingers move along her pussy. He releases her lips and looks at her face. Her eyes are closed but her mouth slightly open. He smiles as there is a slight look of concentration on her face as his hand moves down again. Maureen's body shakes slightly as she feels him move his fingers, this time just touching her clit. Slowly, the fingers slide down over, around her pussy. The curve between his fingers touches her clit. Carefully, the fingers slide up away from her clit. She can feel her body and hips move with this rhythm. His finger tips slide along her pussy lips, slightly closer together. The touch of his skin against her clit is too little. Chris sees her biting her lower lip as his fingers move away again. Slowly, they slide back down. Maureen can almost feel moisture against his fingers as they move down to touch her clit once more. Again, they move back up. Again, they move back down just touching her clit. Maureen is not sure how long his fingers have been moving like this. She is sure that she needs to feel more of him against her clit. She is sure she wants more than just the touching of her clit. Chris smiles and leans close to her right ear. He kisses her ear lightly while his fingers continue to move and tease her pussy this way. "Mind if I slide them in?" he asks in that whispering voice. His fingers slowly slide down, still, along the sides of her pussy. Her body moves with his fingers, building slowly. Her clit almost aches for more now. Maureen's mind is a mass of pleasure and desire. She concentrates on his fingers. The sound of his voice is heard by some part of her. "Mm..." he moans into her ears. His fingers move slowly up along the side of her pussy. Then they move down, closing over her clit and pussy. Her mouth opens but no sound comes out as the touch of him strokes down over her clit and pussy. She is surprised that she did not cum at this touch. Her excitement is beyond what she would normally endure before a climax. She is almost shaking with the desire for an orgasm. He examines her face, watching her with every stroke of his fingers. He wonders if the touch over her clit now would cause her to go over. He moves his fingers just as before, slowly and easily along her. He can feel the moisture but is not sure if it is because of the heat they are generating or if it is truly because she is excited. She can almost feel every bump and curve of his fingers against her skin. Maureen adjusts her legs, spreading them slightly, hoping his fingers would slide in. "I would like to slide them in and feel your excitement." He says as he leans close to hear once more. "May I?" he whispers the question into her ear. Maureen could not talk. She did not want to talk but needed him to understand. She nodes her head. It feels like almost a jerking of her head action. It is right after the nod that she could feel the pressure of his fingers. Maureen could feel herself spreading open as his fingers push into her pussy. Her mouth opens as she exhales heavily. She can barely hold a thought together. She did wonder how many fingers he pushed in as it feels like something close to a flashlight handle. "You are so smooth and wet." his voice says whispering into her ear. Just as slowly as his teasing, his fingers push into her. She feels his fingers filling her up as she tries to squeeze against them. Carefully, his fingers slide out but the fingers move along the bottom. As the fingers move out, she feels them stroking along her. Her body tells her how close she is to a climax. Her mind waits impatiently as it listens to her body, feeling the momentum of the buildup. Maureen opens her eyes. She knows he is saying something to him but she is not sure what that is. Her mind tries to focus but the focus is pulled back to the movement of his fingers. "Yes..." he hisses into her ear. "You feel so good against my fingers. I want you to feel them as they please you." His fingers move slowly but they seem to push harder against her, causing her body to jerk slightly as she thrusts down against his movement. Maureen shivers as her hips move away as his fingers move out, sliding against and along her clit. His fingers move again, slowly but hard against her. As his fingers move out, they slide along her clit. Her body gives a last warning as her mind goes blank. Maureen can feel it beginning as his fingers move once more into her. Her eyes close and her head tilts back and pushes against the wall. Chris moves his fingers, thrusting slowly but deeply into her. Maureen feels her body shake but not like before. It shakes but does not stop. Her legs shake and some part of her mind is almost worried about whether they can support her. His fingers move out, sliding along her clit. Maureen tries to shake her head but the rumble and feel is unmistakable. If she had to imagine what her orgasm is like, it is like grabbing onto something as it shakes. It shakes so much that she finds it hard to hold onto. Her imaginary fingers release as her body lets the pleasure out. Her orgasm moves from her hips and pushes out against his fingers. Her fingers grip, digging her nails into his shoulders as she cums. The hard wall against her back allows her to press harder against him as his fingers continue to slide along her pussy and stroke against her clit. The feel of the orgasm is strong and her body shakes. Her mind rides the waves of pleasure as it pours out from her spine and hips, spreading across her body from below her stomach. He moans into her ears. Maureen is surprised as the sound of pleasure causes her body to shake, almost starting a second orgasm. Her mind does not understand as his fingers slide slightly faster. Her body does not have time to warn her as the second orgasm begins. This time she hears herself scream but is muffled by the touch of his lips against her mouth. She moans into his mouth, glad at the feel. Maureen lets her body release the second orgasm while moaning loudly into his mouth. * * * She is not sure how long it had been since she had her second orgasm. She can feel his lips release her lips as his fingers slide out of her. Maureen tries to open her eyes but can only get them halfway open. Chris smiles at her and she returns a weak one. "Are you okay?" Chris asks, no longer whispering. "Mm-hm." she answers almost lazily. "Good. Want to go back in?" he asks as his fingers slide the zipper back up and carefully helps her tuck in her shirt. Maureen's fingers move to start buttoning up her shirt when she looks into his eyes. She leans forward to kiss him and can feel his eagerness when he returns it. Chris leans close as he kisses her. She realizes he is still excited by the feel of him through his pants. She marvels at his self-control. Most men would have taken it out and either had her do something with it or they would have tried to do her with it. Chris looks at her as she pulls away from their kiss. "What about you?" she asks as her hand moves to touch his excitement through his pants. "Oh." He smiles and says, "He can wait." She will ask herself one day when she thinks back to this moment but she suggests, "Let's go back to your place." "Are you sure?" he asks. She nods. By the time her head finishes the downward movement of he nod, his hand is already on her hand guiding her towards the street. Maureen almost giggles as she sees him reaching into his pocket to pull out a set of keys... * * * Maureen would have thought the orgasms she had by the bar would be all she needed. The orgasms were good and strong. If she had to categorize them, they bordered on being fantastic. Yet the feel of his excitement has her wanting more. Maybe she is lonely and wanted the feel of someone next to her. Maybe that brief encounter is not enough. Whatever the reason, she is here now and she is just as excited as before she had the orgasms. Chris closes the door behind him. "Do you want something to drink?" he asks as he drops his keys down on a table and turns to her. She could feel herself moving forward, steady and sure. Her hands touch his shoulders as she continues to move forward. Maureen's lips touch his lips. Chris returns her kiss with equal passion. His hands move along her back sliding along her body and then forward to cup her breasts through her clothes. She parts her lips as she feels his fingers touch her shirt once more. Her tongue touches his lips, flicking lightly along them until he parts them. Chris moves his fingers along her buttons as her tongue explores his mouth once more. As he finishes with the buttons of her shirt, his fingers touch her hips. She does not quite recall how fast he was moving but she found his fingers moving along her belt once more. She reaches down to stop him. She feels him pull away from her kiss. There is confusion in his eyes so she reaches down to undo his pants. Chris watches her fingers as they move to undo his pants. He moves his hands down to help her with them and in just seconds, they were open. Her fingers grip the edge of his pants and underwear. Maureen can feel them resist as she tugs on them. Slowly, her strength wins out and they slide down. She watches as his cock springs up and bounces in front of her. She takes a moment to look at it as it pulses in front of her. Chris smiles as he watches her. She looks up from his cock to see him smile at her. Maureen leans forward and issues the side of his cock. Her tongue slides out and touches it. It seems warm to her tongue, almost hot. She let the tip of her tongue slide along the side of his cock to the head of it. She looks up at him and sees him closing his eyes. Maureen's tongue slides underneath his cock and moves down along the bottom of his shaft. She reaches up with her left hand to touch him. It also feels warm to her fingers as it does to her tongue. She opens her mouth as her eyes look up. Maureen watches the expression on his face as her lips close around the tip of his cock. She sees his head tilt back slightly as her lips close around his cock. She sees his mouth open as she gently slides his cock slowly into her mouth. Chris reaches up with his hands and touches her head. She did not feel his fingers push or pull her to guide her movements. She did not feel his hips thrust forward as expected either. Maureen only feels his fingers brush along her hair. Maureen pulls his cock deeper into her mouth. He is not big but he is not small. Chris is definitely thicket than anyone she has been with. She could hear him moan as she takes him completely into her mouth. She looks up at him once more as she slides his cock out slowly. Before his cock can slide completely out of her mouth, she sucks him back in. Maureen hears him moan as she applies more pressure in her sucking. Not too much just a little more as if she is sucking a lollipop. Her fingers grip his shaft as she slides them along as her mouth moves. As the tip of his cock nears her lips once more, she releases him. Her hand continues up to the head of his cock and pushes it up against him.