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Amanda Pt. 01

By: SSW_1050



Writer's Note: This is a revision of what started as a major rewrite of my first submission after an off list comment pointed out some weak areas. If you read it some of the characters are the same. After submitting that story, I realized the characters were telling me that there was more to tell. Here, then, is the story telling of a shy young man's coming of age experience. He learns much from a caring mother in part 1 before meeting what will be the love of his life in part 2. Sex is here but it takes a while. I like a long slow teasing build. I do write with an East Texas dialect. If you want a quick stroke story look elsewhere; this ain't it. Literate, constructive comments are always welcomed. Please vote. That is the only applause we authors get. Enjoy. Legal BS -- all persons engaging in sexual activity are 18 or over.

Additional note -- there is tobacco use in all parts of this story. It was very common in the 1960s, especially in the medical profession. Look up the statistics. If that bothers you hit the back button and go elsewhere.

***

Part 1 -- Introductions and Love Develops

Growing up in East Texas in the 1950's and 60's wasn't easy. Dad died in a traffic accident when I was ten. That left Mom and me. She was a Licensed Vocational Nurse, working shift work at the hospital in town. Her pay was lower since she wasn't a Registered Nurse. Dad's life insurance paid off the house and covered his funeral expenses without a lot left over. Mom had to be very careful with her money to provide for our needs. She was able to meet the bills, but had very little left over for other than necessities.

Mom and Dad married when she was seventeen. I was born when she was eighteen. Her work kept her active, which enabled her to maintain a trim figure. She was a small lady, 5'-2" weighing about 100 pounds soaking wet. She had auburn hair, green eyes, and a light complexion thanks to her Irish heritage.

I was small for my age, topping out at 5'-7" weighing 145 pounds. I took after Dad, having a medium complexion, brown hair, and hazel eyes, but fell short of his 5'-10" height.

Since it was just Mom and me at home, I learned early about doing laundry, cooking, housekeeping, and yard work. I mowed yards and did odd jobs for neighbors to help with expenses.

Our home was a small two-bedroom frame house with one bath. Mom and Dad bought two half-acre adjoining lots and built the house on one of them. The house was utilitarian, with just the basics. We only had a tub with no shower. The kitchen and dining area were common and also contained the laundry area. There were wood floors throughout, except for the bath, which was linoleum.

***

The high school I attended had a strong vocational program with multiyear classes in woodworking, metalworking, and auto mechanics. I had a family history of carpenters and woodworkers, with a four greats grandfather coming to East Texas to build a cotton gin in 1835. Naturally, I enrolled in the woodworking program. That was how I met Raymond Fields.

He came to the school looking for a woodworking student with the potential to become a professional cabinetmaker. Mr. Groves, my teacher, recommended me even though I was just fifteen.

The school had recently started a program where a student could go to class for half a day and work for the other half. I could do it but it would mean an additional year to get the class credits needed to graduate.

Having a job meant I was able to get my drivers license on a hardship basis at age 15. This was a big help because I didn't have to depend on Raymond to get to the jobsites. I was able to use Mom's car since she was working night shift at the local hospital. I gave Mom half my pay each week to help with the household expenses and was able to start buying tools and begin saving for a used truck.

My work kept me from attending school social functions. I didn't even attend the football games because I was usually working. Interactions with my age group were limited to classroom time. Naturally quiet and shy, I became more so.

Mom and I were not able to spend much time together due to both of us working different hours. She didn't push me to date because our times together were limited and money was tight. She would occasionally express concerns but I was always able to dodge the issue claiming work. I'd become so introverted I was unable to carry on a normal conversation with a girl. I was actually afraid to try for fear of looking like an idiot.

Until the summer after I turned seventeen, Mom tried to work evenings or nights because of the shift differential pay. That summer she changed jobs for a full time day position in a doctor's office with weekends off after I was able to buy a used ¾ ton crew cab truck from an uncle. This gave us more time together, especially in the evenings during the summer.

After she began working the day shift we were able to spend evenings and weekends together. We would try to eat out at a local cafe once per month. We also spent many evenings talking. Most of the time it was about our jobs and dreams, or planning small projects like fencing the back yard or painting a room in the house. Our weekends were spent either with my paternal grandmother or doing things around the house.

Everything was fine in my world until the summer after I turned eighteen. That summer brought a major change to my life.

***

The previous year had been good for both Mom and me. Mom made the final payment on her car, and I'd found a small house to tear down for salvage, all before turning eighteen, about two weeks before of the end of my junior year in high school. I'd built a laundry room addition on the house and a 24' by 36' shop on the adjoining lot Mom owned that year with the lumber salvaged from that house.

Several people had approached me about building cabinets and bookshelves. Having the shop gave me a place to work out of the weather. The additional income allowed us to insulate our home and install central air conditioning in addition to installing a shower and tile tub surround in the bathroom. That sure made summers more bearable. We always said the humidity at least equaled the temperature during the summers in East Texas.

Mom often worked with me in the shop on weekends, applying stains and finishes to completed projects. She said that since we were using the money for home improvements that benefited both of us she needed to do her part. She was quite good at finishing.

We would always talk about a variety of subjects when working together. I soon noticed, though, that she wanted to primarily talk about one subject.

One of her favorite things to do was to ask about the girls at school. I'm not totally sure she understood how shy I was around other people. I'd get embarrassed about her comments and questions and begin to get very tense and nervous.

My grandmother had also been asking about girls and kept telling me about a girl she knew. As shy as I was, my responses were always noncommittal.

After finally realizing how embarrassed I was, Mom would begin to joke around to try and lighten the tension that would develop from her asking about any girls I knew or dating during some of our conversations.

One Saturday, about three weeks after my eighteenth birthday, we were working together in the shop, finishing a set of bookshelves. I was scheduled to deliver them to the customer the following week. As usual, we had our normal joking banter going. I was cleaning up the shop while Mom finished rubbing out the final coat of finish with oil and rottenstone.

She said, "Mike, light a cigarette for me. I'm about ready to take a break."

"You want me to do that?" I asked.

"Yeah," she said. "I really want one but don't want to get this oil all over my pack and lighter. Besides, if I take these gloves off they'll turn inside out and be impossible to get back on."

I found her cigarettes and lighter over by our coffee cups. Having seen both Mom and Dad both smoking all my life, I thought nothing of it. Taking one from the pack, I put it in my mouth, lit the lighter, and inhaled. Wrong thing to do. I started coughing my head off while Mom was cracking up, laughing.

"What's so darn funny? I asked, gasping for breath.

"I can't help it," she said, still chuckling. "My mistake. I should've told you how to light it. You inhaled when you lit it didn't you? she asked.

"Yeah," I said, somewhat breathlessly. "What'd I do wrong?" I asked. "You inhale all the time."

"Well," she said, "you have to mix the smoke with air so it doesn't choke you. Most people will only suck in with their mouth when lighting up. You're old enough to smoke now if you want to and I don't mind. I'm kinda surprised you haven't started already. I know you and your friend Larry, from across the street, tried smoking corn silk a couple of years ago."

"His mom told you, didn't she?" I asked.

"You're right. Connie told me the same day you did it," Mom said. "Ya'll try to sneak around and do things but you always get found out."

"Like when we skipped school a couple of years ago to go fishin'," I said.

"Right again," she said. "Youngsters never figure out that everything they try to do and hide from their parents, their parents have already done and know about."

I gave her the cigarette and continued my clean up.

After Mom finished rubbing out the finish and wiped the bookcase down, she took her gloves off. Leaning back against the work table, she lit another cigarette and said, "Mike, c'm'ere. I'll show you something." I moved in front of her and she said, "Come closer."

I moved in until I was almost pressed against her. She said, "I'll show you how to get your lungs used to the smoke. Open your mouth and I'll exhale into it. You inhale slowly when I do."

Mom took a drag from her smoke, inhaled, and leaned forward and touched her lips to mine in an almost kiss. I inhaled as she exhaled. This time was so much better. The smoke didn't choke me and I almost got a kiss. I'd been wondering what it would be like to kiss a girl. After exhaling, I said, "Mom, that was neat. Can we do that again?"

We continued to share the cigarette in that manner. Mom kept watching me with a half smile on her face. Each almost kiss was longer than the one before. It was a completely new experience for me and began to have predictable results. Standing this close to a female and sharing the semi kisses was causing me to get hard. Mom seemed to want to get closer as I was trying to back away.

I finally took a step back in an effort to try and control myself. Mom looked down and saw the bulge in my jeans. She smiled and said, "Mike, I see you're havin' a problem. Don't worry about it. I know it can happen. We were almost kissin'. The same thing would happen to your dad. It's perfectly normal. We need to work on gettin' you more comfortable about bein' close to girls."

"But Mom, it's embarrassin'," I said. "It might give a girl the wrong idea about me. I have enough trouble as it is."

"Baby, I'll spend some time with you workin' on this," she said. "Why don't we take some time in the evenings to talk about things and maybe do some role play like we're strangers meetin' for the first time? It'll help you get used to bein' close to a girl."

I loved Mom but didn't really know how to show or tell her without looking like a total idiot. Maybe her idea would be worth exploring. What I didn't know was that she had gone beyond a mother's love for a son. I had no idea she had fallen in love with me as a man and had been thinking about crossing a line for the past couple of years.

Mom and my paternal grandmother were the only ladies I was halfway comfortable talking with. As our talks progressed she discovered just how introverted I was. I finally admitted I was scared of girls and didn't know how to talk to them.

Mom was concerned about my shyness and began to try to help me resolve the issue. We began to role-play in the evenings. It was embarrassing for me at first until I realized she was a very attractive lady that looked much younger than her age of 36. She looked even younger when carefully made-up. She was also working with me to overcome my reluctance about touching. As part of the role-play she had us holding hands and hugging in addition to the almost kisses we would share with cigarettes. She would always have some light, joking comment to make when I would get erect. I began to joke back. The role-play was coming to be something I really enjoyed.

During one of these sessions the subject of sex came up. It was a very embarrassing discussion for me.

"You understand that sex is a normal part of life, don't you?" Mom asked.

"Yeah, I know that," I replied.

"Why haven't you said anything before now?" she asked.

"Well, it's not something I feel comfortable talking about, even to you," I said.

"Haven't I always told you that you can talk to me about anything?" she asked.

"Yeah... but it's so embarrassing. You know how I am. I have a hard time talking to girls and don't know what to say," I told her. "I'm barely able to talk to you and Grandma."

"You have to remember that sex is how you got here," Mom said. "Bill and I both enjoyed sex a lot. I'm not sayin' you should go out and do it now, but you need to know how it works. When the time comes you need to be able to have a good relationship with a girl that you both can enjoy."

"You are at the age now when your sex drive should be very high," she said. "You're masturbating now, aren't you? You know, playin' with yourself?"

"Mooommm!" I said. "You're really embarrassing me!"

"Well, aren't you?" she asked. "Answer me."

"Yeah," I answered, sheepishly. "I am."

"I know you are," she said. "I know about when you started. I also know you do it most every night."

"Mooommm!" I said. Then I thought for a minute. "Yeah, I guess you do. You said the other day that anything I could do you'd already done and knew about, didn't you?"

"I knew I didn't raise a dummy," she said.

Continuing, she said, "I know you've heard the stories about how it'll make you go blind or go crazy. Don't believe it. Masturbation is a normal part of life. There is nothing wrong with doin' it," Mom said. "It helps keep the urge under control. Now, I need to show you something and we need to talk more. There are a lot of things I can show you that will help you in the future with girls. I can help you learn how to make a girl happy. You're well on the way already."

"Let me get one of my books," she said, going to the bookcase in her bedroom. She pulled out a large book, saying, "Let's go to your bedroom and use your desk."

I got one of the chairs from the dining table and carried it to my desk. Mom was already seated at the desk with the book. "This is 'Gray's Anatomy'," she said. "It's a very thorough book on human anatomy, used in medical and nursing schools. Almost everything you need to know about the human body is in here. The only thing missin' is the slang names for things."

She opened the book to the section covering the male anatomy. Going through the pages she showed the male genitalia. She explained how arousal in a male caused blood to be trapped in the penis, causing an erection. She explained about the function of the prostate, testes, and other glands, and explained ejaculation in scientific and slang terms.

Turning to the section covering female genitalia, she said, "Now, this is what you'll be more interested in."

We discussed the illustrations in detail, especially the one that identified all the parts of the vulva. Mom was very thorough in her descriptions of how each part contributed to female arousal and orgasm. She explained how the parts would change with the labial lips swelling and opening, how the vagina would secrete slippery mucus, and how the clitoris would swell and protrude for better stimulation.

During the discussion she gave me the slang names she had heard used for the various parts. Then she mentioned oral sex, asking if I had heard of 'eatin' pussy'. I said, "Yeah, I've heard of it."

"It'll really get a woman hot," she said. "You should remember it."

She then gave me a detailed description of how she liked it done and what it felt like to her. She then described a girl sucking on a man's penis. "If you have a girl that wants to do it to you, please let her decide how deep you go in her mouth. Some people have a strong gag reflex and your dick bumpin' the back of her mouth at the entry to her throat can cause her to choke. It'll almost feel like you're gonna throw up," she said. I didn't say anything but that sounded like the voice of experience.

Our discussion continued for good while with me asking questions and her answering. She concluded by saying, "This book will always be in my bedroom. You can look through it anytime you want."

In the days after the discussion about sex, Mom became more blatant about walking around the house in her underwear. I could tell she had a full bush because I could see the shadow of pubic hair through her panties. There was even a time or two I saw her in her bedroom completely topless.

It became harder for me to conceal my erections. I finally decided that if she was going to show off I would too. I started wearing gym shorts around the house without underwear. It seemed we were each trying to attract the other.

After a couple of weeks of role-playing and talking, Mom finally decided to force the issue. "You need to learn how to date and court a young lady," she said. "I know we live in a small town where everyone knows everybody but it's only 35 miles to Longview, where no one knows us. I'll be your date and coach you on behavior and small talk."

"But Mom, are you sure this'll work?" I asked. "I'm still worried about actin' or doin' something stupid."

"Why don't we plan to have a dinner and movie night this coming Saturday?" she asked. "There'll be a John Wayne western called 'The Sons of Katie Elder' showing at the Twin Pines drive-in and we can eat at El Chico before going to the movie."

She knew full well I was a sucker for Mexican food and a western movie. She enjoyed them as much as I did.

"Since this is gonna to be a date night, let's do it right," she said. "You get your truck cleaned up Saturday morning. After you clean up and dress, leave for a while to allow me to finish gettin' ready. Come back home, knock on the door, and I'll join you. We'll go to the restaurant and then the movie. It'll be fun."

"Well, if you're sure this is the thing to do I'm game," I told her. "Maybe this'll help me overcome some of the shyness in public." I figured that at this point anything would help.

***

Amanda Reynolds was spending the summer after high school graduation with her parents. Her family had moved to the inherited house and farm five years previously when her grandmother passed away.

She was a nice looking girl but not a real beauty. She had not dated much in high school. Amanda's few dates had not gone well. The boys seemed to think that she should be an "easy lay", which she didn't like.

Amanda was about 5'4" tall with long dark brunette hair. She was an average build with a short waist and long legs. She was looking forward to working around the farm with her dad on his off days as a fireman over the summer before starting college in the fall. Her plans were to get a two-year bookkeeping and accounting degree before going to work.

After moving to the farm, they met Thomas and Elizabeth Davidson, who owned the adjoining farm. Amanda and her mother visited Mrs. Davidson frequently. Mrs. Davidson was always talking about her grandson, Mike, and what he was doing. She always made a point of telling Amanda about him. He and Amanda both attended the same high school.


Amanda Pt. 01



Amanda gradually became interested in Mrs. Davidson's grandson. She finally figured out who he was at school. During her sophomore year she noticed that she wouldn't see him in the afternoons. None of her friends knew much about him other than that he was very quiet. Their boyfriends didn't know much about him either.

Amanda and her mother visited Mrs. Davidson more after her husband passed away. She began to ask some questions about Mike. She learned that he was a very quiet, shy, young man that was working through the vocational program at school. He lived with his mother. His dad had died several years previously. He never dated.

Amanda's mother was concerned about her daughter. She didn't seem to be interested in dating much, saying the boys were a bunch of immature jerks. Mrs. Reynolds made several visits to Mrs. Davidson during Amanda's last two years in high school. The ladies would talk about Amanda and Mike. As they each shared information about the kids a plan began to develop. Mrs. Davidson decided to get Mike's mother involved.

***

Saturday morning found me washing my truck and cleaning the interior, which meant a trip to the local carwash to use the vacuum and a stop for gas. After filling the tank I returned home.

Mom was wearing her usual weekend attire of shorts and a tee shirt. My usual dress down attire was cut off jeans or gym shorts and a tee shirt, the rattier the better.

I hit the bathroom to take care of the three S's. While I was standing at the sink in my underwear shaving, Mom came in and hugged me while pressing her breasts into my back and kissing the back of my neck. "I love the smell of a good clean man," she said before leaving.

Her actions had me bumfuzzled. This was the first time she'd been this affectionate. It took all my concentration to finish shaving without some serious nicks. The old Gillette double edge sure got a workout.

I went into my room to dress. Mom had laid out a new bright blue western shirt, new blue jeans, and a new pair of boots for me. I stuck my head out the door asking, "Where'd the clothes come from?"

Mom replied, "I felt like you needed something new so I bought 'em for you. Consider it a belated birthday gift. I can never repay you for the way you've stepped up and helped out since your dad died. We're doing so much better now, I feel you've earned it."

After dressing I went to the living room where Mom was. She told me, "You sure look nice. I almost want to stay here with you. Now, we need to set some ground rules. Since I'm your date tonight I'm not Mom. Call me by my given name, Patsy. You'll have to talk to the staff at the restaurant. You'll have to place the order and answer any questions. This'll force you to communicate with people you don't know. I know how reluctant you are to speak to strangers. You can talk. You do to me, your Grandma, and the people you work with. Learn to do it in public to strangers."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied. "You're forcin' me out of my comfort zone, but I understand why. It won't be easy, but I'll try my best."

"Depending on how successful you are there may be some rewards for good behavior," she said. "You got a reward in the bathroom earlier."

That statement got my attention. "What types of rewards are you talkin' about?" I asked.

"You'll have to wait and see," she replied, smiling. "Now, you clear out and come back in about forty-five minutes. That'll give me time to finish getting ready. Take the small cooler, ice it down, and get some drinks. Find someplace to hide the cooler. Drive-ins'll sometimes check your car lookin' for food or stuff. See you later, Baby."

I got into my truck and drove away. My mind was still whirling around the rewards statement. What could she be talking about?

***

Returning home from my errand about forty minutes later, I pulled into the driveway behind Mom's car. I got out of the truck and went to the front door. Knocking as she'd requested got a "Just a minute" reply.

The door opened and took my breath away. There was Mom wearing a white silk sleeveless blouse that buttoned down the front. She also had on a top of the knee length pleated skirt that was a perfect color match to my shirt. She was wearing suntan colored stockings and black pumps with 2" heels. Her shoulder length hair was lightly curled under on the ends in a pageboy style. She'd lightly applied full makeup including a bluish green eye shadow that was a perfect match for her green eyes. A very light blush and red lipstick were the finishing touches. She had a small gold chain around her neck and a gold bangle bracelet to complete the ensemble. She was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen.

"Good evening lovely lady," were the first words from my mouth. "Your chariot awaits." I know, the dialogue sounded like a cheesy romance novel, but I was almost struck dumb.

"Let me get my purse," she said, picking up a small black clutch from the chair arm by the door. Turning on the porch light, she closed and locked the door. She took my arm as I escorted her to the truck. Opening the passenger door I assisted her into the seat. Lifting her leg gave me a brief glimpse up her skirt where I could see the tops of her stockings.

Since the mid 1960's were pre seatbelt laws, Mom scooted over in the seat to sit beside me. She was close enough her thigh was pressed against mine. Her skirt pulled up to just below her stocking tops. Thank goodness for bench seats and automatic transmissions. I was able to place my arm across the seatback above her shoulders while I drove.

We made small talk during the drive to the restaurant. She was behaving differently tonight. She seemed to be more affectionate and even more outgoing as she coached me on etiquette in a slightly upscale restaurant. All I had been to before were the local Dairy Queen and the local cafe with booth or counter seating.

Parking at the restaurant I went around and opened the door to help her out. Sliding across the seat pushed her skirt up allowing a glimpse of white lace on her panties.

Holding hands, we walked to the front door of the restaurant.

Following her coaching, I approached the hostess station in the restaurant. I told the hostess we needed a table for two in a secluded area if possible. We were very shortly escorted to a semi-hidden table in a corner. I followed Mom's swaying walk as we followed the hostess. I noticed that she drew admiring glances from some of the men there. After reaching the table I pulled the chair out for her, allowing her to be seated. I took my seat as the hostess told us our waitress would be with us shortly.

Mom's previous coaching allowed me to be able to talk with the waitress and place our orders. This earned a big smile and wink from her. It did wonders for my confidence. "You're doin' a great job," she told me. "Keep it up for a reward later," she giggled.

"Here we go again," I told her. "I hear a lot of promises."

"You'll like the rewards," she replied. "They might be like the reward at home this afternoon. Just keep up the excellent work like you have so far. You're doin' great, Baby. Just keep it up durin' the movie later."

We continued to talk and lightly tease each other through dinner.

During the conversation I told her, "I noticed some of the guys in here givin' you some looks when we came in."

"How do you feel about that?" she asked.

"Sorta two ways," I said. "It makes me feel like I'm with a really pretty, desirable lady, but it also makes me want to go over and tell 'em to keep their eyes to themselves, that you're mine."

"Mike, Baby," Mom said, "that's exactly the right way to feel about a girl you're with. If she knows that she'll think a lot more of you. We ladies really like to feel the man we're with will cherish us. What you said tells me a lot. It says you'll protect and care for me. That's what a woman really wants."

When we were finished with the meal I assisted her from her chair and again followed her we left the restaurant. Watching her swaying hips was mesmerizing. Once outside she said, "I am impressed with how well you talked while eating and how you treated me. That's the way a girl likes to be treated. That deserves a reward." She placed her arms around my neck, pressed her body against me, and delivered a full on lip lock kiss. Feeling her breasts against my chest combined with the kiss was causing a problem in my jeans.

Arriving at the truck I unlocked and opened her door. After I helped her into the seat and before turning she raised and spread her knees slightly, allowing me a quick glimpse of lace trimmed, white, sheer panties. This did nothing to help with the problem I was already having. Again I wondered, was this intentional or not?

It was only a short drive to the drive-in theatre. After paying at the gate she told me, "Find a spot away from everyone else on one of the back rows."

I jokingly asked, "What are you plannin' to do, sneak out?"

Her reply was, "You'll find out. When you get parked get the cooler out because I want a coke."

I had the small cooler hidden in the toolbox on my truck. Mom had told me that they would often check the interior and trunk of a car because people would hide food or drinks there, trying to sneak them in. I figured the toolbox would be safe. It was.

We slowly drove to the back row of the parking area where we found plenty of spaces available. Mom said, "Park away from the others and stop the truck so we can see from either seat. When you have a girl with you always remember there's more room back there."

After I got the truck positioned, Mom said, "Let's go to the concession, I need a restroom. We also might want some popcorn."

We walked to the concession with my arm around her shoulder and hers around my back. She kept her side pressed against me the entire way. The side of her left breast was rubbing against my side. Separating, she went into the Ladies while I took care of business in the Gents. Meeting again, we went into the concession and bought popcorn before going back to the truck. While in there she again drew looks from some of the guys. Going back to the truck we heard a couple of wolf whistles. These made her giggle and softly say, "Guess I've still got it."

I told her, "You've always had it."

At the truck we got back into the front seat. Mom slid over close to me and put my arm around her shoulder. She said, "I really like the way you're openin' up and talkin' to people now. Since you're so shy I know it's a hard thing for you to do. Keep workin' on it."

I told her, "It's always been hard to do. I was kinda always treated as an outsider in elementary school. You know that I was always picked last for school sports because of my size. The other kids were always quick to laugh and make fun of those of us that were small or clumsy. I hated the humiliation so decided to not participate."

"I know, Baby. Youngsters can be cruel," she said. "You've matured into a fine young man. You're very responsible and have turned into someone any girl can be proud of." She scooted even closer, almost climbing into my lap. "I am so pleased with the way you've always helped around home. You've always put our needs ahead of your own wants."

"Mom," I started to say.

"I told you to call me Patsy," she said. "You're an adult now. I know I'm your mother and always will be, but I think you've earned the right to call me by name."

"OK, Patsy. I always helped out because I felt it was the right thing to do. Dad and you both taught me to try to do the right thing," I told her. She turned, wrapped her arms around my neck, and hugged me like she was going to squeeze the life out of me. I wrapped my arms around her back returning the hug. Her left breast was pressed into my chest.

"You've earned another reward," she said, licking my right ear. "I want you to really kiss me," she said. "You need to know how to kiss like an adult. We'll practice 'til you get it right," she said.

This was a bit of a surprise. Until tonight our kisses had always either been platonic, on the cheek or the semi-kisses when sharing a cigarette. "Patsy, are you sure?" I asked.

She replied, "I told you, you're an adult now. You need to learn adult things. Kissin' a girl's no different. All you have to do is follow my lead."

She then kissed me. I felt the softness of her lips pressed to mine. After a few seconds, I felt her tongue tracing my lips. It was such an erotic thing to me. I opened my lips and began to trace her lips with my tongue. Her tongue came in contact with mine. It was like a small electrical shock to my system. I heard her begin to moan softly. After breaking the kiss she whispered, "I've really missed that. Your dad could really get me going with a kiss. You're following in his footsteps."

There was a side effect to the kiss. My penis began to swell again. Mom could see it in my lap. "It looks like you're having a hard time there," she said with a soft giggle.

"You're the cause of it," I told her.

"I guess I'm too "hard" on you," she replied, with another laugh.

"You've always been "hard" on me," I said.

"Kiss me again," she said. "I need it."

I pulled her to me and kissed her. The kiss seemed to last forever as our tongues dueled.

By this time it had gotten dark enough the projectionist started running the concession advertisements and previews. While they were playing Mom asked, "Mike, your high school class has about fifty in it, doesn't it?"

"Yeah, I think that's about right," I told her.

"OK, then. With fifty in your class there should be about twenty-five girls. Right?" she asked.

"I think so," I replied. "What're you gettin' at?"

"Well, I've never heard you say anything about any of 'em. Even though you've been so shy, surely you'd have one as a friend," she said.

"You haven't seen 'em, or don't know 'em" I said.

"What do you mean by that?" she asked. "That isn't something I'd have thought you'd say."

"Well, there are the three or four really good lookin' ones," I said. "The problem with 'em is their families have money or own businesses in town. They think they're too good to associate with the riff raff. They only want the football and basketball players. They look down on all the rest of us."

"Then there's a group that're from average families. Some of 'em are taller than I am and most of 'em look pretty average. You know, people like the Kellys across the street," I told her.

"Then there's one poor girl that has a bad case of acne and is real clumsy. I don't know much about her but I feel kinda sorry for her," I said.

"That pretty well sums 'em up," I said. "Another thing, I'm only at school for half the day with work. Also, all most of the girls in my classes talk about are movie magazines and guys playin' sports. I will say, though, that the past couple of years I've seen one girl that's different. I don't see her chasin' after guys and she seems pretty serious most of the time. She has long dark hair and looks kinda nice. I don't know who she is."

"That's about what I expected," Mom said. "You seem to be more interested in what you can't have. That's the way most men are. They want sirloin. It takes 'em a while to realize they're better off with hamburger."

"What do you mean by that?" I asked.

"What's wrong with the average girls?" she asked me. "The average girl isn't as likely to be stuck up or wrapped up in herself. I was one of those when I was in high school. If your dad hadn't picked me out of the crowd you wouldn't be here now."

"But Patsy, you're beautiful!" I said.

"It's just make up," she said. "I was a late bloomer and didn't really come into my own 'til after you were born. You'll find out that you have to judge a person by more than their appearance. You have to look at personality and other things also."

"I guess maybe you're right," I said, "but, other than Grandma and Mrs. Kelly, you're the only woman I've been close to. You're what I know to compare 'em to. I compare the ones at school to you and most of 'em fall short. There's only one or two that seem serious about what they're doin'. You're so much prettier and you talk to me without the putdowns."

"Mike, your dad and I married in 1947. I was seventeen, a year younger than you are now. He was twenty-two when he enlisted in the Navy in 1942. There was ten-year difference in our ages. He'd fully matured and settled down by the time we met. He picked me out of all the possibilities he had."

By this time the movie had started. We interrupted the discussion to settle in and watch John Elder and his brothers get justice for the family.

Remembering what Mom had said, and having her sitting so close beside me, gave me a lot to think about. It made it hard to follow the movie, especially when she would turn and want a kiss during the slow action parts of the movie.

She seemed to want something, but because of my inexperience, I wasn't sure what. I definitely wanted something. I wanted her or someone like her. Comparing her to the girls my age I realized that nearly all of them I knew were immature. They were wrapped up in movie magazines or dreaming about football players. Here I was sitting beside a full-blown adult woman instead of some silly girl. This was what I wanted.

With a flash of inspiration, I realized that loosing Dad like we did made me grow up faster. Mom was right. I WAS an adult now with a more mature outlook on life.

She might say she was hamburger, but it sure looked and felt like I had prime filet mignon sitting beside me.

Patsy turned for another kiss. I wrapped her in my arms for a hug.

Finally the movie ended. Before the next feature started, Patsy said, "Let's go to the concession again, I need the restroom."

I got out of the truck and walked around the back to her door. While behind the truck, I had to make an adjustment in my jeans. Sitting next to her and thinking the thoughts I had, had given me a major hard on.

Helping her from the truck, we again headed for the concession. Once there she went to the Ladies while I went to the Gents. After rejoining, I asked if she wanted popcorn again.

"No, not this time," she said. "Let's get back to the truck before the next movie starts."

The second feature was an older movie on its second run through the theatres, 'Terror on a Train' with Glen Ford, a 1953 black and white suspense movie.

When we got back to the truck Patsy said, "Let's get in the back seat this time."

I unlocked and opened the front passenger side door, reached in, and unlocked the rear passenger side door. Opening the door, I helped her in.

By the time I'd walked around the truck, she had unlocked both doors on the driver's side. I got in the back seat as well. Once I was seated, she moved over, sitting very close beside me.

We rolled the windows down again since it was a warm night.

Patsy got her clutch, opened it, and took out her cigarettes and lighter. "Do you want one?" she asked me.

"How about if I share yours?" I asked.

Handing me the lighter, she said, "Fine. I don't mind sharing."

I lit the lighter and held it up for her. She took my hand in both of hers and was rubbing my palm with her thumb while lighting her cigarette. Really? I'd heard guys in my PE class saying that if a girl did that she wanted to fool around. After she got it lit, she raised her head. I closed the lighter and tried to hand it back to her.

"No," she said. "That's yours."

"What do you mean?" I asked. "I don't own a lighter."

"Yes you do, that one," she said. "I bought it for you. A gentleman should always have a lighter. Suppose you see a girl you'd like to get to know. She takes out a pack of cigarettes. You step up and offer a light. Next thing you know, you're complimenting her dress, her eyes, her hair, or something else to get to know more about her. Offering her the light was the icebreaker that got everything else started."




Amanda Pt. 01



"I never thought of that," I said.

By this time the projectionist had turned the floodlights off and started the second movie. It was not a feature we were especially interested in.

Patsy got into my lap. She kissed me again and asked, "Where were we when the movie ended?"

"In the front seat," I said.

"You're bein' a smart ass," she said.

"You left yourself open for that one," I told her. "We were huggin' and kissin' in the front seat."

We started gently kissing. I hugged her to me as we did.

Our kisses grew more passionate, and my tongue was becoming very familiar with hers.

We'd been getting very friendly for about 20 minutes when Patsy took my hand and placed it on her waist before saying, "Mike, Baby, I gave you a signal when you lit my cigarette. Do you know what it was?"

"Well, you held my hand with yours and were rubbin' my palm with your thumb. Is that what you're talkin' about?" I asked.

"That's exactly right," she said. "Do you know what that means?" she asked.

"I've heard the guys at school say it means a girl wants to fool around," I told her.

"That's right. You have to be careful, though. If that's what she wants she'll usually give some other signals also," she said.

"Like what?" I asked.

"Well, I've given you several since we left home," she said with a giggle.

"What were they?" I asked.

"When I got in the truck at home I lifted my leg so you could get a quick look up my skirt," she said. "That was a signal that I was interested in you and might be interested in gettin' friendly."

"Getting out of the truck at the restaurant I let my skirt ride up so you'd get a quick flash of my panties. That was a signal that I really like you and really want to get friendly," she told me.

Then she said, "Getting back into the truck I gave you a good flash of panties. That's to reinforce that I'm really interested in gettin' friendly with you."

"When I put your hand on my waist," she said, "is another. If a girl's wantin' more she'll do something like that and maybe move your hand up and down on her side."

Mom demonstrated what she'd said by placing my hand there and slowly moving my hand up on her side.

She then wrapped her arms around my shoulders and pulled us into another kiss. I slowly moved my hand up her side until I was touching the bottom of her left breast. I stopped there. The question in my mind was should I go further? This was my mother. How far did she want me to go?

Breaking the kiss, she leaned back slightly, staring into my eyes. I was sitting there, frozen in position.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"I was about to feel you where I shouldn't," I said.

"Did I tell you no or try to pull away?" she asked.

"No," I said, "but I was touchin' one of your private areas."

"Mike, you're too much of a gentleman," she said with a smile. "Most guys would've been all over a girl's tits by now. She'd have been tryin' to fight 'em off if she didn't want it. If she didn't want it she'd never have agreed to get in the back seat or sit in your lap. I've been givin' you all the signals girls'll use if they want to fool around."

"Baby, I don't mind you feelin' my tits through my clothes," she said. "I've seen you starin' at me in my underwear at home and know you try to look through the shower curtain when I'm in there. I know you've even seen 'em bare a couple of times. I really don't mind."

With that she placed my right hand on her left breast. I cupped my hand around it gently squeezing. Patsy gave a soft moan as she kissed me again. I could feel her nipple bump through her bra and blouse.

After a couple of minutes, she unbuttoned the top three buttons of her blouse and slid my hand inside. Her bra felt different, thinner than the ones I'd seen her wear around the house. Her nipple was making a very pronounced bump in the bra cup. I tweaked it a few times, which made her moan softly.

We continued like that for a few minutes before she put my hand on her knee. Her stockings felt wonderful, so soft and smooth. I began to rub her knees, which brought another moan.

She spread her legs slightly and moved my hand between her lower thighs, moving it up and down her legs. I started moving higher up her thighs until I was under her skirt and at her stocking tops. The bare skin of her thighs felt like satin.

My penis was now so hard it felt like it was going to tear through my jeans.

My fingers were tracing over the skin of her inner thighs and moving slowly toward the heaven between them when they felt hair.

Hair? I remembered seeing panties at the restaurant.

Suddenly Patsy said, "Mike, stop. Here comes the 'head checker'," as she pulled my hand from under her skirt.

My erection was rapidly deflating.

"What the heck's a 'head checker'?" I asked.

"See that guy walkin' behind the cars with a flashlight?" she asked, while pointing across the lot.

Looking past several cars, I saw him. He was slowly walking behind the cars and would turn his head, looking toward the screen when behind each car.

"What's he doin'?" I asked.

"He's checkin' to see if he can see heads in the car. If he doesn't, he'll go up and shine the light through the window. Sometimes he gets an eye full," Mom said. "Pretty much all drive-ins will have a guy that patrols the parking area. They claim it's to stop people from going too far. I think he's just a pervert that gets his jollies tryin' to catch somebody doin' something they shouldn't."

The thought of watching a couple humpin' and pumpin' had me back at full staff quickly.

Mom got off my lap and sat back in the seat, buttoning her blouse.

"That killed the mood. We'd better go home," she said.

We rolled the windows up and I got out to help her into the front seat. She kept pulling her skirt down getting out and getting in.

What had I done to make her mad? Should I have put my hand so far under her skirt? What happened to change things so quickly?

I went around the truck, getting into the driver's seat.

"Patsy," I started to say.

"Let me think," she said abruptly, as she took out her cigarettes and lit one.

I started the truck and slowly drove from the theatre parking area.

My mind was racing. What had I done? What had I not done? Why was she upset? What could I do to make it right?

Mom was very quiet on the way home. A couple of times I tried to ask what the problem was or try to apologize for whatever I'd done. Each time she would abruptly cut me off, saying, "Mike, please, let me think. We'll discuss it when we get home."

I was becoming so nervous and apprehensive on the drive home I stopped and bought cigarettes myself. Mom didn't want to talk to me. She was shutting me out completely. I was becoming an emotional wreck and almost chain smoking by the time we arrived home. I was very fragile emotionally, only having started to open up very recently. Things were looking bad to me.

Parking the truck behind Mom's car, I got out, went around, and opened her door to help her from the truck. She didn't take my arm. I followed her to the door.

Mom got her key, unlocked the door, and went in.

By the time I got inside, closed and locked the door, and turned the porch light off she was seated on the sofa with the end table lamp on, lighting a cigarette.

Patting the cushion beside her, she said, "Come. Sit here beside me."

I slunk over, not sure what was about to happen.

"Mom," I started to say.

"I told you to call me Patsy, didn't I," she replied, somewhat sternly.

"Patsy," I said, "I want to apologize if I did something wrong tonight. I thought you were enjoyin' what we were doin'. You told me that I could touch your breasts and you seemed to enjoy it."

"You didn't tell me to stick my hand up under your skirt," I told her. "If doin' that made you mad at me, I'm so very sorry. Please, tell me what I have to do to make things right between us. Not knowin' what I did wrong is tearin' me up. Please, tell me how to fix this."

"Mike, you did nothin' wrong. Everything was goin' just right when I saw that damn guy with the flashlight," she said. "It sorta surprised me and scared me a little. The pause in what we were doin' got me to thinkin' about where we were and what was happenin'."

"I just had to take some time to think about things," she said.

Mom said, "I'm sorry for being so abrupt with you. I just needed some time to clear my head. There's nothin' to fix, it's just me. I completely enjoyed what we were doin'."

"So did I," I said. "I never knew about those signals you showed me. Is that common knowledge? How would I know when a girl really means it? There's still a lot I don't know."

Mom said, "Mike, that's a hard one. You sometimes have to trust your instincts. Most of what I showed you is not something that'll usually happen on a first date. It'll usually happen after you get to know each other better. Sex isn't something you want to rush into. You and the girl would need to know each other pretty well."

"As far as the signals go, I think they're pretty well known," she said. "You said the guys in your gym class had talked about the one. Of course, you're such a gentleman that a girl will most likely have to tell you what she wants."

"That's the way you and Grandma raised me," I said. "Ya'll taught me to respect others and to always be considerate of their feelings. Some of the guys at school are always talkin' about how they think the girl is supposed to "put out" because she should be so grateful they wanted to take her out. I'm just not that way."

"Baby, I know you're not," she said. "The way you stopped before touchin' my tit told me that you're a perfect gentleman. I was really surprised when you started reachin' up under my skirt. I was expectin' to have to tell you that I was OK with it."

"It seemed like you were invitin' me to do that when you spread your legs and put my hand between 'em," I said. "The feel of your stockings and your bare thigh above 'em was drivin' me crazy."

"I could tell," she said. "I could feel you under my butt. It really felt good to me."

She stubbed out her cigarette and sat, staring into my eyes for a minute. I was drowning in her beautiful green eyes.

Suddenly she wrapped her arms around my neck and put a toe-curling kiss on me. I wrapped my arms around her back, pulling her into a tight hug.

Breaking the kiss, Patsy said, "Mike, we've gone pretty far tonight. I know you're sexually aroused like I am. We're really close to crossin' a line people say we shouldn't. We need to wait and talk about this in the morning."

Standing, she picked up her cigarettes and lighter. "Let's go get some sleep," she said.

It was so hard not to follow her swaying ass as she went to her bedroom and closed the door.

***

Mom woke me the next morning, saying, "You need to get up. We need to eat breakfast and talk."

"This sounds bad," I replied.

She said, "Not really. We just need to discuss what happened and decide what to do. I also have something I need to tell you."

I got up, pulled on a pair of gym shorts, and went to the kitchen to start the coffee brewing. Mom came in, wearing a knee length, green chenille robe. The front was open to her navel and the belt was loosely tied around her waist. She went to the refrigerator, getting out bacon and eggs. While she was cooking, I poured our coffee, got out some orange juice, and made toast. I set the table while she was dishing up our breakfast. The bacon, toast, and scrambled eggs seemed to taste better this morning.

As we were eating, Mom started talking. "Mike," she said. "People'll say what we were doin' last night was wrong. We almost crossed a line we can't come back over. I felt it was the right thing to do when we started. I need to apologize to you," she said. "I know you were upset drivin' home last night. You were wonderin' if you'd gone too far and I was mad at you. I wanted you so much that I was goin' to let you have it all in the back seat of the truck. Then that guy and his flashlight showed up. That scared me and made me think about what I was doin'. I needed that time last night to really think it through to be sure about what I want to happen. I want it so badly."

Reaching across the table, I took her hands in mine. "You've just answered a lot of the questions in my mind," I told her. "Last night you taught me a lot. I'll always remember what you told me and what we did. You've been the standard I always compared girls to. I've never met anyone I've been interested in because they all fell short next to you. Why'd you wait so long to tell me and show me?" I asked.

"I wanted you to be an adult, so you could make an adult decision," she said. "You are now."

When we finished breakfast, she asked me, "Well, what do you want to do now?"

"I can mow the yard, do the laundry, and paint the house," I answered jokingly.

"NO!" she said. "We're gonna spend some time talkin' about this." She got up, came around the table, straddled my legs, and sat on my thighs facing me. I wrapped my arms around her shoulders and stared into her eyes. Leaning forward, I kissed her wonderful warm mouth. Leaning back, I said, "I want you to know that I love you and always have. You mean so much to me that I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You'll meet a nice young girl someday," she said. "I know it's gonna happen. When it does I'll have to let you go and live your own life."

"Mom," I started.

"I told you to call me Patsy," she said.

"I thought that was just for the date last night," I replied.

"Look, Buster, you're an adult now," she said. "You've demonstrated that clearly. I was givin' you all the signals last night but you wouldn't take advantage of 'em 'til I told you to. I'm so proud of you. Your adult behavior and that damn guy with the flashlight kept me from goin' too far."

"But Mom," I replied. "Although I understand what you're sayin', I just don't feel real comfortable callin' you anything but Mom. I was going to say that I don't want another girl right now. Every girl I've seen or known I've always compared to you. Every one of them has fallen way short of your standard, except maybe the one Grandma keeps talkin' about. You're the type of woman I want. You've been the type I've always dreamed about. You're my ideal of the perfect woman. No one else I know can ever replace you. No one can. I'm in love with you. I've been in love with you for years. I've just never known how to show or tell you so."

Mom had begun crying during my declaration.

"What's wrong" I asked.

"Nothing's wrong. It's all right. It couldn't be more right," she said. "I've loved you as a mother loves a son all your life. Watching you mature has made me fall in love with you as a man. It makes me so happy to know you feel the same way. The tears were tears of happiness."

"Now, how do we want to handle this?" I asked her. "I know we can't run an ad in the paper telling what we've done or knock on doors telling all the neighbors. Are you sayin' you think we should start sleepin' together? If you are, you'll have to show me what to do. Other than a magazine or two I've never even seen a naked woman in my life."

While we were talking, the loosely tied belt on her robe had untied and the robe had fallen open. She was totally naked under it. The beauty within entranced me. I was all I could do to keep my hands off her.

Looking at the treasure in my arms, I said, "You know, you woulda really given that guy an eye full last night."

She said, "If you think so."

"I'm lookin' at it. I know so," I told her.

She looked down and saw the open robe. "Oh shit!" she exclaimed, closing the robe. "So much for modesty. I guess you got a free show!"

She continued, "What just happened is a perfect example of how much of a gentleman you are. I was wide open to you and you didn't take advantage of it. You're exactly what many, many girls want and can never find."

Mom said, "We need to do something today. There's beds that need changin' and some laundry to do. Somebody also needs to wash the dishes. We also need to talk more about last night and where we want to go. Then we might have time for you to learn some more."

"Sounds like a good idea," I said.

She said, "Now, let's gather up the laundry and get started." With that, she stood and started to her bedroom. I followed. Unusually, clothes were scattered on the floor in her bedroom from last night. Mom said, "Now, you can help me strip the beds and remake 'em."

We gathered her clothes from where they were scattered across the floor. I held up the bra she wore last night. "Mom, I've never seen this one before."

"Yeah," she replied. "I've kept it and the panties hidden in my dresser for a while. I bought 'em a few months ago with last night in mind. They were part of the bait I was usin'."

"Well, I guess it worked didn't it? I asked. "Looked and felt to me like you were gettin' what you wanted, weren't you? I kinda fell right into your trap."

"Yeah, but you seemed to like it as much as I did," she replied.

"Mom," I asked, "You said you bought the bra and panties a few months ago with last night in mind. What're you tellin' me here?"

"Mike," she said, while picking up clothes, "I told you that I want you. I've wanted you for the past couple of years but had to wait. I wanted you to be an adult. You are now."

There came a knock on the front door.

"Just a minute," Mom called out.

There was a flurry of activity. Mom thrust her armload of clothing at me, saying, "Quick, go put this stuff in your room. I'll see who's at the door." She closed her robe tighter and retied the belt. I took another quick look around, grabbed her stockings from the floor, and took off for my room. Her bedroom was on the back side of the house and mine on the front. Her room was visible to anyone going to the bathroom.

I heard her open the front door and say, "Good morning, Connie. What can I do for you this morning?"

It was our neighbor from across the street.

Connie said, "Morning, Patsy. I need to talk to you and Mike."

Mom said, "Come on in. I'll get Mike."

She came to my door and said, "Connie, from across the street, wants to talk to us."

I was sorting our clothes on the bed. "Let me get a shirt on and I'll be right there," I said. I got a tee shirt from my dresser, put it on, and followed her from the room.

Connie was a good neighbor of ours. She was a stay at home mom and had looked after me in the evenings, when Mom was working, for several years after Dad died. She and her husband, Lawrence, had become good friends of ours. They had four children, three girls and a boy. Her son, Larry, was the youngest, a month older than I was. We'd grown up together and had become friends. He was another small guy like me, but was much more outgoing.

Coming into the living room, I saw Mom and Connie seated on the sofa. "Good morning, Mrs. Kelly," I said. "What can we do for you?"

"This is so embarrassing," Connie said. "Larry needs to find a job. There's not a lot going on here in town and he doesn't have a car. We only have the one and Lawrence uses it to get to work. Larry still has another year of school like you, so can only work full time during the summer 'til he finishes." He'd been held back a year in the second grade.

"Well, Mrs. Kelly, you're right," I told here. "There aren't a lot of jobs here in town. I can talk to my boss tomorrow. Right now we're pretty busy and he's talked about hiring a few hands and splitting the crew to work two jobs. He's out of town for the weekend, though, and won't be back 'til tonight."  Connie said, "That would be a big help. Larry made a big mistake and has to make it right."

"What'd he do, and where is he?" I asked her. I'd only been around Larry at school the past couple of years because I'd been enrolled in the vocational program, working afternoons and evenings during school.




Amanda Pt. 01



Connie started crying. She said, "He got his girlfriend pregnant. Her parents are pretty mad about it. We are too. We all met at their home last night. Her parents want 'em to get married. I suppose it'll be for the best if they do. The kids say they love each other and want to make it right. He and Lawrence are back over there today. I told 'em to go without me. I wanted to talk to you about a job. The plant where Lawrence works won't hire anyone without a high school diploma."

Mom scooted over on the sofa and hugged Connie. "Connie," she said, "we'll try to help if we can. I know this has come as a shock to you. Let's go to the kitchen, have some coffee, and work this out."

We went to the kitchen. I cleared the table and poured each of us a cup of coffee. We all sat.

"Larry doesn't have a lot of work experience," I said.

Connie said, "I know. I thought about asking you because you've hired him for help in the past. You didn't use him much, but I understand that. Your jobs are small."

"You're right, Mrs. Kelly. I wasn't able to use him a lot. He was good help, though, when I had him workin' for me. I could depend on him and he was willin' to learn."

"If I can talk Raymond into hirin' him it'll have to be as a laborer or helper to start. He can ride to work and back with me. I'll ask if I can have him as a helper, although he may have to work with the framin' crews some. I can show him what I know so he can learn more. I can most likely use some help myself in the evenin's too. I'm biddin' on a couple of large cabinet jobs right now."

Connie said, "That would be wonderful, if you can work it out. The kids'll be stayin' with us for a while after they marry. Her parents don't have the room. They have two girls and a boy and the girls share a room. My girls are all gone now, so we have the room." Theirs was a larger four-bedroom house.

Mom said, "Connie, if there's anything we can do let us know."

The talk turned into a general discussion. I got up, started another pot of coffee, and washed the dishes. Leaving the ladies to their discussion, I went to Mom's room and stripped her bed. I then went to my room, moved the clothing from my bed and stripped it also. A check of the bathroom added some towels and washcloths to the laundry pile.

I figured I'd better check the washer and dryer. Sure enough, the dryer needed to be emptied and a load in the washer needed to be dried. Taking care of that, I returned to my room and gathered the dirty laundry. I had to pass through the kitchen to get back to the laundry.

After taking care of things in the laundry room, I rejoined the ladies at the table.

"Connie, why don't you, Lawrence, and Larry have dinner with us tomorrow?" Mom asked.

"That'd be a good idea," I said. "I'll have a chance to talk to Raymond in the mornin' about the job. Maybe I'll have some good news."

We went with her to the front door. Connie turned, grabbed both of us and tried to hug the life out of us. "Behave and don't do anything I wouldn't do," she said, laughing. "I really do love the both of you. We'll see you tomorrow evening." With that, she turned and left.

We got busy. There were beds to be made. We worked together and soon had them done. When we finished, we sat at the table with cups of coffee and cigarettes.

Mom then came around the table and sat in my lap before asking, "Mike, it's time for you to make an adult decision, a decision that will affect us for the rest of our lives. Do you want to sleep with me? I've already said that I want you. This is something that has to be kept between us. Now what'll it be? Do you want me as much as I want you?"

I stared into her beautiful green eyes for an eternity. How bad did I want to sleep with my mom?

Finally, I said, "Can I have a little time to think it out?"

Mom said, "Baby, take the time you need. I've been thinkin' about this for the past couple of years. I waited to say anything because I wanted you to be an adult. You've acted like an adult since you started working for Raymond. Legally you are an adult now."

It was getting into the late afternoon. I said to Mom, "We need to eat. We've been foolin' around and haven't thought about it. Why don't we go to the Shamrock cafe and get something while I'm thinkin'?"

"Sounds good to me," she said.

We each went to our rooms, got dressed, got in my truck, and left.

***

While we were eating we talked about jobs and school.

During the time we were there, several people that knew us came by to speak to us. One or two commented that Mom looked happier. She told them that she was, that things were better because I was becoming more outgoing. They would then ask me questions, which I answered. I also paid compliments on their appearance or commented on things they said.

Here came Darla, one of the nurses at the doctor's offices where Mom worked. She and Mom were always kidding with each other when they were at work or met socially.

Darla, said, "I can't believe it. He can talk. As long as I've known him I've never heard him say more than two words at a time." Looking at Mom, she said, "You have a reason to be happy. You have a hard workin' son that can talk."

She and Mom both had a big laugh at that.

Darla slid into the booth seat I was in, hugged me, and kissed me on the cheek. Looking me in the eyes, she told me, "If you were ten years older, I was ten years younger, and I wasn't married, I'd be chasin' you all over the place. I'm gonna find you a girlfriend. You're what women are lookin' for."

I looked over. Mom was glaring at Darla and then broke out laughing after hearing what she said. "Good luck with that," she said. "He's still scared of girls. I'm trying to ease him into it gradually. Besides, you're not the type of influence he needs right now."

Darla quipped to Mom, "Says you. You need a man. You're gonna let it dry up without one."

With that, Darla got up. She told Mom, "I'll see you at work tomorrow, Sweetie." She left.

After finishing our meal, we settled up and left.

While driving home, I kiddingly said, "I thought for a minute there we were gonna see a cat fight between you and Darla. You were sure givin' her a hard look."

Mom said, "She's one of a kind. I wouldn't trust you with her for a minute. She kids around a lot. I'll have to see what she says tomorrow."

"Yeah," I said. "What did she mean it was gonna dry up? You're gonna have to explain that to me."

Mom erupted in laughter. "We talked about arousing a woman when we talked about sex. My pussy gets really wet, especially when I've been kissed and teased for a while. I'm surprised I didn't leave a big wet spot on my skirt while we were in the back seat and coming home last night. You really had me stirred up."

"Now you know why I always wear the heavy cotton panties. They help. I was always wet around Bill and I'm the same way with you most of the time, especially when you wear those gym shorts. There's just something about you," she said.

After arriving home we sat on the sofa, talking, which continued until I excused myself for the bathroom.

Coming back into the living room I asked, "You don't think Darla'll be a problem, do you?"

Mom said, "Not really. She kids around a lot but is pretty serious most of the time. We've gotten to know each other pretty well. When she starts having fun or after a few drinks she'll say most anything. She'd had few today and was pretty loose."

"I thought I smelled it when she was sittin' beside me," I said.

"Bill and I would drink a beer every now and then, before he was killed," she said. "I've never smelled it on you. You've never had a drink have you?"

"No. I've had the chance, though. Some of the guys on the job keep it in coolers and have one after work. They've offered it to me, but I was always afraid of drivin' after drinkin'," I told her. "It never seemed worth the risk."

"It's not," she said. When I was workin' the emergency room we hated to see Friday and Saturday nights. Those were always busy nights and a lot of it was from drinkin' and drivin'."

While we were sitting there I was thinking. I asked, "What are we gonna have to eat tomorrow night? Got any ideas?"

Mom thought and said, "Why don't we cook hamburgers? We can do those fairly quickly and if you cook the meat on the grill most of the mess is outside."

"Sounds good to me. You better stop by the store, though. I'll be working on the job out at Center Point and won't get back 'til about six. Then I'll have to clean up. I know we'll need meat and buns. Why not get ground sirloin? It tastes better and don't shrink as much," I said.

"What about dessert?" Mom asked.

"How about ice cream?" I asked.

"Sounds good to me," was the reply.

I lit a cigarette, looked at Mom and said, "Mom, I've been thinkin' about what we talked about earlier. You're completely serious about us sleepin' together aren't you?"

"Yes, Mike, I am," she said. "I'm completely serious. I'd have let you have it all in the back seat of your truck last night 'til that damn guy with the flashlight showed up. I could feel your dick under my butt. That combined with the kisses, your playin' with my tits, and rubbin' my legs almost had me cummin'. I wanted you to fuck me so bad I couldn't stand it. I still want it. I want you in bed with me now."

Now was the time. Here she was if I wanted her. All I had to do was say the word and she was mine.

I was again staring into those beautiful green eyes. I said, "Mom, you'll have to show me what to do."

She threw herself at me, wrapping her arms around my neck and kissing me like tomorrow would never come. I hugged her and pulled her against me, mashing her breasts into my chest.

"Oh Mike," she whispered, "you've made me so very happy."

Standing, she said, "Come with me."

I again followed her swaying ass, this time into her bedroom.

Once in the room, she stepped out of her shoes and turned to face me, saying, "Take my clothes off."

I slowly unbuttoned her blouse and slipped it from her shoulders. She was wearing the sheer bra I'd seen earlier. Her nipples were erect, making pronounced bumps on the bra. I reached behind her to fumble with the catch of her bra. Mom quickly reached behind her back and solved the problem. Sliding the bra straps off her shoulders revealed her magnificent breasts to my view. Her areolas were almost the size of a half dollar coin and her nipples were the size of the last joint of my little finger. They were a beautiful medium reddish brown color. I had to feel, kiss, lick, suck, and bury my face in these fleshly delights, all at the same time.

Mom finally pushed my head away, saying, "You're forgettin' what you're supposed to be doin'."

"Sorry, Mom," I said. "I was tit struck."

She giggled and said, "Get busy."

I unzipped and unbuttoned the waistband of her skirt. It slid over her hips and down her legs to the floor. Mom stepped out of the skirt and kicked it aside. She was wearing the panties I saw last night. Her full bush of auburn pubic hair was plainly visible through the sheer fabric.

"Mom," I said, "I remember seein' panties at the restaurant last night but felt hair when my hand was under your skirt."

She laughed, before saying, "I took 'em off that second time in the restroom at the drive-in. I was gettin' ready to give you everything."

Kneeling before her, I leaned forward and kissed her panty-covered mound before sliding the waistband over her hips. The panties pulled free from her slit and slithered to the floor. Leaning forward again, I took my first ever taste of pussy by licking through Mom's slit and up over her mound, before kissing her navel.

Mom pulled my tee shirt off before telling me to stand. She knelt to unsnap and unzip my cut offs before pulling them down my legs. She grabbed the waistband of my jockeys, ripping them down my legs to expose my seven-inch circumcised erection. Wrapping her hand around my penis, she began stroking me before leaning forward to take the head in her mouth. Mom's tongue was swirling around and over the underside of the head, which was driving me wild with lust.

Releasing me, Mom stood and moved in for a full body hug and kiss.

Mom said, "This side of the bed is mine. Go to the other and help pull the covers down."

I walked around the bed where we pulled the covers to the foot of the bed. Mom lay down and patted the bed beside her. I got into the bed and met her in the middle. Taking her into my arms, I kissed her. Trying to remember what she had told me, I continued the kisses over her face to her ears where I licked them and lightly nipped at her earlobes. My kisses continued down her neck and upper chest to those wonderful breasts.

I gently kissed and licked over her breasts to her nipples. Her nipples were delightful things, just begging to be kissed, teased, and lightly nipped. Mom was moaning softly and beginning to squirm around when she pushed me onto my back. She quickly turned and straddled my shoulders with her knees pushing her pussy in my face.

Her outer labia were swollen and had darkened to almost the same color as her areolae and nipples. The pubic hair trailed across her labia and onto her perineal area. The inner labia were a dark pink, flaring open, and very moist. Her swollen clit was extended from its hood. It was the same deep pink and size as a pencil eraser. I could see her vaginal opening, which was weeping fluid. The smell of aroused woman was intoxicating. I was entranced, staring at her magnificent pussy.

Wiggling her hips, Mom said, "Hey. It ain't gonna lick itself. Get busy."

I used my hands to spread her labia further and licked up through her slit several times. Each time I would start at her clit she would moan louder. I licked up once more and pushed my tongue into her vagina. After inserting and withdrawing it several times I moved down and sucked her clit in between my lips. I alternated between flicking her clit with my tongue and gently nipping at it with my teeth.

Mom was sucking on the head of my penis, alternating between swirling her tongue around the head and probing the slit. Her mouth was so warm and moist on me.

I pushed the forefinger of my left hand into Mom's vagina, rubbing it on the front wall feeling for the magic spot she'd told me about. When I found it, Mom moaned loudly and pushed her pussy harder into my face. She was beginning to shudder and the muscles of her thighs were tightening.

Her mouth on me was amazing. The wet warmth combined with the suction was driving me to the edge. I could feel my balls drawing up and knew I was close to cumming.

"I'm gonna cum," I groaned.

"So'm I," Mom moaned.

She thrust her pussy hard against my face as the orgasm began. Her vagina clamped down on my finger as fluid flooded from her. I was shooting into her mouth at the same time.

When our climaxes subsided, we lay limply for a minute. Mom finally turned to lie on top of me. A small amount of cum was in the corners of her mouth and her cum was all over my face. We kissed and began to lick each other's face clean.

Mom said, "Thank you for that. I haven't cum that hard since your dad died. I love you, Baby."

"Thank you, Mom, for sharing with me," I said. "That was my first experience. I'm glad you enjoyed what I did for you."

"Baby, you can do that for me any time," she said. Wiggling her hips she said, "Ooohhh, you're still hard. Good."

Mom rose up and straddled my waist. She raised enough to rub the head of my penis back and forth through her slit until I was well coated with her fluids. Moving me back to her vaginal entrance, she slowly lowered her pussy onto me. Her vagina felt like warm, oiled, velvet as it descended onto me. She paused, rose slightly, and lowered again, repeating until I was fully seated in her vagina. I was as deep in her as I could get. The feeling of being fully seated in the vagina I had come out of eighteen years earlier was exquisite.

Once she was fully down, Mom said, "I need to sit here for a minute and get used to you. I'm so full now. You're every bit as big as your dad was and it's been eight years."

Mom began to move her hips in a small circular motion alternating with a back and forth motion. I reached up and began to pull and twist her nipples with both hands. Mom's motions were getting faster and she was beginning to raise and lower on me. We were thrusting together more and more rapidly. Mom was moaning and twisting her body as she leaned forward to mash her clit between our pubic bones. I was trying to get deeper into her on each upward thrust.

Mom's chest was flushing and her entire body was coated with sweat when she began to shudder as the climax took her. My balls were drawn up tight against the base of my penis as she thrust downward hard on me and loudly groaned, "Aauuuuggggghhhhhh!"

I pushed as deeply as possible into her vagina as cum shot from my penis. I lost track of the number of shots as my vision blurred and I saw red from the intensity of the feeling. Mom collapsed forward onto me and lay limply. I was barely able to wrap her in my arms as the aftershocks passed through us.

Mom raised her head and kissed me deeply before saying, "Baby, that was wonderful. You've given me something I thought I'd never feel again. Thank you."

I returned her kiss and said, "Mom, I feel like I've been run over by a truck. Is it always like this?"

"No, it gets better as you learn your lover," she replied.

I could feel my erection subsiding until her vagina pushed me out. When it did, I could feel our combined cums draining onto me. Mom rose to her hands and knees before turning around. She pushed her freshly fucked pussy into my face, saying, "You clean me and I'll clean you."

We each began to lick our combined fluids from the other. After we were reasonably clean, Mom turned again and kissed me. She still had some of our mixed cums in her mouth, which we shared.

Afterward, I said, "Mom, I tasted my cum once and didn't care for it. This time it's different. I didn't mind tasting it from you."

"It ain't strawberries and whipped cream," she said, "but love makes the difference. Now, it's getting late. We need to shower and get some sleep, we both have work tomorrow."

Showering with Mom was a wonderful experience. We each washed the other and played around until the water began to cool. After drying each other we returned to her bedroom. Mom looked at the bed and said, "Baby, we need to use your bed tonight. I'll have to wash these sheets tomorrow."

We went to my room and got into bed. Mom was half lying on top of me as we shared kisses and whispered endearments until sleep overtook us.

***

That unwelcome jarring note was the raucous buzzing from the alarm clock.

Mom was still lying in my arms when we awoke. Nothing is as wonderful as having the woman you love naked in your arms in the morning.

After sharing kisses and "Good mornings," I rolled out to get dressed for the day, giving Mom first shot at the bathroom. After dressing, I was off the kitchen to make coffee and start breakfast. Mom came into the kitchen and took over the cooking so I could get in the bathroom to finish preparing for the day.

While eating we talked about the plan for the evening. She would have everything done except for grilling the burgers when I got home. I told her I would have the grill ready to light before I left for work and asked her to light it about 5:30. It would be ready to use by the time I got home and took a quick shower.

After packing my lunch, I prepped the grill and left for the job.

***

Arriving at the job site, I met with Raymond. I needed to look at the plans for the cabinets and staircase on this job. After we discussed what I needed to do and the additional materials I'd need, I asked him if he was still planning to hire additional help.




Amanda Pt. 01



"Yeah, I am," he said. "We're busy enough right now to do it. I have four houses scheduled now and am biddin' three more. I'll try to push some of them back 'til next year 'cause we always have bad weather during the winter."

Our East Texas winters rarely had snow, but we always had to deal with cold, rainy days.

"I know a guy that I think would make a good helper. I've had him work for me in my shop. He's pretty sharp and willing to work," I said. "He's like me and still has another year of school to graduate. He could work the same hours I do during school. He's my age. I could use a helper with some of the jobs you have coming up."

Raymond thought a minute, then said, "Let me think about it. That might save me havin' to pull a helper from the framers. I've got to go to the lumberyard and meet with a bricklayer. I'll be back around noon. We'll talk about it then."

"Sounds good to me," I said. "I'll be here."

Raymond left on his errands and I started laying out and cutting materials for the kitchen cabinets.

I had the overhead cabinet casework cut out and dadoed before noon. I was ready to start assembling after lunch. I was working alone because Raymond had the rest of the crew working on a large framing job close to Longview.

I stopped for lunch at noon. Raymond drove up about ten minutes later. "Hey, boss," I hollered at him.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," he said. "How's it goin'?"

"I've got the overheads cut out and ready to assemble," I told him. "It'll take a couple of stiff legs to set one of 'em. You know one of these overheads is ten feet long. I'll need a helper with that one."

"I know," he said. "The customer didn't want it split into two cabinets. That's one of the joys of custom work."

"Yeah, I am findin' that out with the small jobs I do on weekends. They always want it done the hardest way."

Raymond said, "Why don't you start cuttin' out the base cabinets this afternoon? There's room to work on 'em in the garage. Bring that guy you know with you tomorrow if he's available. I'll talk to him in the morning and have him fill out the paperwork. If everything looks good I'll let you have him for a helper. That way he can work after school the way you do."

"I was kinda hesitant to let you work like that when you started, but it's worked out. You've turned into a good cabinetmaker and finish carpenter. You always get the job done on time," he said.

"Raymond, what can I tell him to expect for pay?" I asked.

"I'll start him at three quarters what I'm payin' you. After a month we'll know how he's gonna work out. If we're satisfied with him, I'll give him a raise then," he said.

"What are your plans after you graduate?" he asked.

"Right now I don't know," I told him. "Mom said something about takin' a vacation for a few days right after graduation. We were talkin' about goin' to the Gulf coast, south of Houston. Nothing's definite though. Why're you askin'?"

"I'm workin' on an idea," he said. "If everything goes like I want it to, it'll put you in business full time. I still have to think about some things and talk to some other contractors first."

"This ain't gonna put me out of workin' for you is it?" I asked.

"No, it won't do that. The thing is that you could specialize on cabinets and have more work to do than now," he said. "I'll know more in the next month or so. We'll talk then."

I went back to work, cutting out the base cabinets. I usually worked nine to ten hours per day during the summers. During the past school year I worked six or seven hours per day after school, making up the balance on Saturday if needed. The next year I had a light schedule and would be able to leave school by 1:30. I could average seven hours per day, maybe more. I'd have to find out about Larry's schedule.

I finished and cleaned up so I could leave for home at 5:00. I'd be home by 5:45.

***

Arriving home, I parked my truck in its usual spot in front of the shop. I was glad to be there. I went in the back door, noticing that Mom had the grill lit. Good, I could start cooking as soon as I got cleaned up.

Mom met me at the door with a hug and kiss. "Evening, Mike," she said. "How was your day?"

"Long and tiring," I said, "How about yours? Did Darla say anything?"

"Yeah, she did. She was runnin' around all over the office tellin' 'em all that somebody needed to grab you while they could," she said.

"Oh hell," I said. "That's all I need, somebody tryin' to fix me up with all their nieces and daughters. Tell her that I'm off the market; I ain't interested in any of that right now. I don't have the time between work, school, and you."

"I'm headed for the shower. What time are they comin'?" I asked.

"I talked to Connie about fifteen minutes before you got here. They'll be here in about fifteen minutes," she said.

"I'd better hurry," I said, leaving for my room. "We're not dressin' fancy, are we?" I asked as I went.

She said, "No, nothin' fancy." She was in her usual around the house attire of a tee shirt and shorts.

I undressed, grabbed some clean cutoffs and a tee shirt, and headed for the bathroom.

After taking care of business and dressing, I left the bathroom to hear people talking. Mom, Connie, and Lawrence were sitting in the living room. I didn't see Larry.

I came in, saying, "Hello, how is everybody?"

"We're fine," Lawrence said. "How was the day?"

"Kinda long" I said. "Where's Larry?" I asked.

Connie said, "He's gone to get his girl. I asked Patsy if it'd be all right and she said yes. He left about ten minutes before you got home. They should be back in fifteen or twenty minutes."

"Well, he'll have to make a short night of it tonight. I'll need him to be ready to go with me at 6:00 tomorrow mornin'," I said.

"That's great news," Lawrence said.

"Yeah, it is. I talked to Raymond this mornin' and again over lunch. He's willin' to hire him and let him work with me. I need to find out what his school schedule is like next year. If he can get out early it'd be good," I said.

"Is everything ready except for cookin' the meat?" I asked Mom.

She said, "The vegetables are cut, the patties are made, and I only have to toast the buns."

"I'd better get busy," I said.

I went into the kitchen. The patties were on a platter in the refrigerator. While I was getting them and a spatula, Lawrence came in. He went out the back door with me to the grill.

"Mike," he said, "Connie had a talk with me last night."

"I figured she would," I said. "What'd she say?" I had a good idea what was coming.

"She told me about the talk ya'll had Sunday mornin'," he said. He appeared very nervous, lighting a cigarette from the butt of one he'd been smoking.

Connie had revealed to us that she and Lawrence were first cousins and that their families had thrown them out and cut them off after she got pregnant.

"Lawrence, I hope you don't mind. Connie told us what happened to you, what your family did to you. We know it must have been hard for both of you. No family support and a new baby? I'd hate to think about havin' to do it myself. You've done well, though. You have my admiration," I told him.

"Now, I need to know, does Larry know any of this?" I asked.

"No, he doesn't," Lawrence said.

"OK. That tells me what I need to know. He'll never hear it from me," I said. "You can tell Connie for me that we'll keep your secret."

We heard a car pulling into the driveway. There was Larry with his girlfriend Karen. They got out of the car, coming to where Lawrence and I were standing by the grill.

"Hey, Larry. How've you been?" I asked.

"Hey, Boy," Lawrence said.

"Doin' OK," Larry replied.

"Who's the pretty girl?" I asked. "What's she doin' with the likes of you?"

"Karen, this is my best friend, Mike. Mike, this is Karen," Larry said.

"Hello, Karen. I'm Mike. Welcome to my Mom's and my home," I said.

"Thank you," Karen replied. "I've seen you at school. You were in my Geometry class last year. You didn't say much."

"I remember you now," I said. "You were a couple of seats in front of me on the next row."

I was busy turning the burgers.

Turning to Larry, I said, "You gotta take this pretty girl home early tonight. I need you ready to go at 6:00 tomorrow morning."

"That's good," he said. "What'll I be doin'?"

"Workin' for Raymond as my helper. I started the cabinets at the Center Point house today. Eat your Wheaties in the mornin'," I said. "You'll need 'em."

I told him what the starting pay would be and that he would be reviewed after a month.

Lawrence asked, "Is he gonna need a car?"

"Raymond told me I could have Larry as my full time helper," I said. "He'll be able to ride to and from work with me for a while."

"You work long days, don't you?" Larry asked.

"Yeah, sometimes I do. I put in nine and a half today," I said. "Most days in the summer I work tens."

Mom and Connie came out the back door. Patsy said, "Hi, Larry. We thought we heard you out here."

Looking at Karen, Patsy said, "Hello, I'm Patsy. You are?"

"I'm Karen," she said. "I want to thank you for letting me be here tonight."

Mom said, "You're more than welcome. Any friend of Mike or Larry is always welcome. Come on in the house with Connie and me. We'll get you a drink."

"Mike," she asked, "how long on the meat? We've got everything ready inside."

Looking at the grill, I told her, "I'm almost ready here. I'm taking 'em off the grill now." With that I started removing the burgers from the grill.

Everything was set up assembly line fashion on the kitchen counter. I sat the meat by the buns and invited our guests to help themselves.

We all took seats at the dining table and began the meal.

"Larry," I said, "what does your class schedule look like next year?"

He said, "I need four classes to have enough credits to graduate. I think they'll all be mornin' classes. Why?"

"Raymond offered to let you work my schedule next year," I told him. "Last year I left school after 2:00 and went to work. Raymond came to the school with me last summer and we made sure I was enrolled in the vocational program to make it legal. I worked after school 'til about 9:00 each night and some Saturdays when I had to. I averaged thirty to thirty five hours per week. This comin' year I'll be able to leave at noon. If you can too, it'd be great. That way we could both get a full 40 hours in without workin' Saturdays."

"Sounds good to me," Larry said. "I'll have to find a day to get by the school."

Connie said, "Larry, I'll call the school tomorrow and talk to them about it. When do you want to go by there?"

"Connie," I said, "let's wait for a month. Larry can show Raymond how he works. He'll have to go by the school and do some paperwork with the counselor as his employer. He had to do the same for me. He has to send a report on me to the counselor every month about my hours, he'll have to do the same for Larry."

The conversation turned to a general discussion of Karen and Larry's future plans. We learned more about Karen and she learned more about all of us.

Conversation continued for about another hour before Lawrence and Connie told Larry and Karen that we had an early day tomorrow. Lawrence and Connie walked across the street while Larry drove Karen home.

Finally. At last Mom and I were alone together. We cleaned the kitchen. Since we'd eaten off paper plates there were only a few dishes to wash. After we finished, she said, "I need a bath. I feel like I need a good soak and I need to shave my legs."

"Can I shave them for you?" I asked. "I'll massage your feet and legs after."

"Sure," she said. "Come on. I'll show you how."

Following her to the bathroom, we undressed. While I was adjusting the water temperature in the tub, Mom sat on the toilet to pee. I was already half erect from the thought of seeing her naked. The sound of her stream splashing in the toilet and knowing where it was coming from brought me to a full erection quickly.

Mom felt of the water and said, "Make it hotter. My feet and legs need the heat."

We got into the tub together. I took the soap and washcloth and washed Mom's feet and legs.

"Mmmmmmm, that feels so good," she said.

Turning her in the tub, I washed her back and reached around to wash her front. Of course, particular attention was paid to ensure her breasts were clean.

Mom turned again and sat on the edge of the tub. She took her razor off the shelf at the end of the tub and handed it to me.

"Take the soap and lather my leg," she said. After I did so, she said, "Now, it's no different than you shaving. Move the razor up my leg to remove the hair."

I took my time for fear of nicking her leg. After shaving her leg, I ran my hand up and down her leg to feel any stubble I missed. After rinsing the soap from her leg, I turned to shave the other. When I was finished, I trailed my fingers through her pubic hair.

"Have you ever shaved your pussy?" I asked.

"It's been shaved twice," she said. "Bill wanted me to shave it after we married. It was shaved again when you were born. I didn't like it because it itched so much when the hair was growin' back. It's also a very sensitive area and I had to use a moisturizer after I shaved. Bill didn't like the taste of that. He claimed he'd just eat a hair pie with sardine sauce," she said with a giggle.

She just said something about being born. Oh shit! "Mom, are we gonna be in trouble? I didn't use a rubber," I asked.

"Now you worry about it," she laughed. "Baby, I can't get pregnant again. I had some serious complications carrying you. The doctors told me that I most likely wouldn't survive another pregnancy. They recommended a procedure called a fimbriectomy and cauterization. Basically the ends of the fallopian tubes are removed and the ends burned to seal them. My ovaries are still in place and I still have my monthly cycle but I can't get pregnant."

Hearing her say that strengthened my resolve to care for this wonderful woman that had lost so much.

After we finished her bath, Mom joined me on the sofa. I took her right foot in my hands and began to massage it gently, working from her toes up to the calf of her leg. She lay back and sighed, saying, "I'll give you a week to stop that."

After massaging her feet and legs I said, "Let's get a glass of iced tea. I need to tell you something."

Patsy's face looked serious when she came into the kitchen. "What's goin' on?" she asked.

"Well, I'm not sure, but I think Raymond is gonna make a change in the way he does things. He wanted to know what my plans were after graduation. He also said something about puttin' me in business more than I am now," I told her.

Mom thought for a minute. She asked, "What do you think he has in mind?"

"I'm not sure, but I believe he's thinkin' about sub contractin' a lot more of the work on the houses he builds. Right now he subs out the electrical, plumbin', roofin', and paintin'. The only direct employees he has are the framin', sheet rock, and trim and finish crews. I overheard him and the framin' foreman talkin' a few days ago. Thinking about what I heard then and what he said today it adds up," I told her.

"How would that affect you?" she asked.

"It'd put me in business for myself full time," I said. "If that were the case I'd have to bid on doing his cabinet and trim work. I could do the same for other contractors also. It wouldn't be any different than the bookcases and cabinets we build here in my shop. I'd become an employer, hirin' help to do the work. That means I'd probably need a part time bookkeeper or somebody like that to help with payroll."

"Right now I'm just gonna have to wait. Raymond said he'd know what he was gonna do just after the first of the year," I said. "There's no reason to worry about it right now. I just wanted to let you know what was happenin'. Thinkin' about it, though, I'll probably have to have a bigger shop."

"I'm glad you did, Honey," Mom said. She looked at the clock saying, "Guess we better get to bed. That clock'll go off early in the morning."

I did get the chance to eat her pussy to orgasm while she sucked me off. The lateness of the hour and having work tomorrow kept us from doing more as much as we wanted to.

***

I awakened the next morning, as before, to the loud raucous buzz of the alarm. I rolled over, shut off the alarm and headed for the bathroom. Mom was already in there. "I've got to go in early today," she said. "We've got a staff meetin' before the office opens."

"I'll start breakfast then," I told her, before going to the kitchen where I started the coffee and started eggs boiling on the stove. I quickly went to my room and dressed for the day. By the time I got back to the kitchen the coffee was done. I poured cups for both of us and started the bacon cooking on a low heat. Picking up Mom's cup of coffee, I carried it to the bathroom for her.

She was finished with her make up. She had her bra, garter belt, and white stockings on and was just pulling up her panties. At this time most nurses still wore white dress type uniforms with white stockings and shoes. I sat her coffee on the countertop of the vanity and got a kiss.

She followed me to the kitchen after putting her robe and shoes on. I was setting the table and preparing my lunch while she finished cooking the bacon and removed the shells from the hard-boiled eggs.

We sat and ate while discussing what we had to do during the day.

After eating, I went to the bathroom to shave and brush my teeth. Mom was in the bedroom, putting her uniform on. I got another kiss and a tit squeeze while telling her to have a good day at work.

Leaving the house through the back door, I found Larry waiting for me at the truck. He had a lunch box and thermos with him. I unlocked the truck; we got in and headed out.

"What're we gonna be doin'?" Larry asked.

"We've got to build and set cabinets in the kitchen and utility room. Then we'll have to build and set the vanity cabinets in the bathrooms. Raymond's supposed to have the interior doors delivered later this week. We'll have to set them and then build the closet shelves," I told him.

"There's also a wall in the den that'll have picture frame moulding on it, along with a wainscot on the other walls. That'll all be done in ash. We'll have to be careful with that because it'll get a light stain and lacquer finish. The painter'll do the stainin' and finish."

"Then we have to install the balusters, spindles, and rails on the staircase and balcony after we get the treads down. That'll all be oak. You're gonna be learnin' a lot the next few weeks," I told him.

We stopped at a small country store about six miles from the jobsite. I asked Larry what type of soda he preferred. "You'd better get it now. This is the closest place to the job," I said.

After making our purchases, we drove to the jobsite.

When we arrived I unlocked the toolbox on the truck and we unloaded the tools and extension cords. I'd left my table saw in the garage. The framing crew had installed the garage doors and exterior doors when they dried the house in so it could be locked up.

The roofing crew was already there working. They started at daylight so they could get off the roof before it became too hot.

I had the plan sheets in the kitchen where I was working the day before. I briefly reviewed the plans with Larry before we started assembling the cabinets I'd cut out the day before.

Having the help sped up the job. I'd already laid the cabinets out on the walls so we knew where everything went.

We were almost ready to hang that ten foot cabinet when Raymond drove up. I introduced him to Larry. They talked for a few minutes. Raymond then took him to his truck to fill out his W2 and other papers while I worked on some of the smaller cabinets.




Amanda Pt. 02



Writer's Note – This is part two of a young man's coming of age story. The story picks up the next morning after the end of Part 1. As promised, Mike meets Amanda in this chapter. There is not much sex in this chapter, although it does lay the groundwork for what comes later. As always, constructive, literate comments are welcomed. Enjoy and don't forget to vote. 

Tobacco use is here as well. 

***** 

Part 2 – Plans Made and Changed 

The next morning after breakfast, Mom and I were talking about the work needed on the barn. We decided to start estimating the materials needed for the barn so I could get a cost figure. We'd know then how fast the work could be done. We knew we would have to do some work on the house too. There was also the matter of my uncle's land. He wanted to sell and I wanted to buy, but I needed to find out what prices were. 

While I was working on the materials estimate, Mom went to the neighborhood store to get the local newspapers. The want ads would be a good place to begin looking at land values. There were always ads for real estate and farmland with prices. 

When she got back I was ready to take a short break. I'd already decided that the first thing I'd have to do is install a ceiling in the barn. That and overhead doors would do the most to control dust. Adding insulation would help a lot with temperature also by blocking heat in the summer and retaining heat in the winter. 

We sat at the table with a cup of coffee looking through the want ads. There were three listings for properties from forty five to seventy five acres. All were priced about the same. I lit a cigarette and sat thinking. 

"What're you thinkin' about?" she asked. 

"Land prices," I said. "What we saw in the paper averaged about two hundred an acre. That would put Uncle Junior's land worth about twelve thousand. That's more than I'd feel comfortable borrowin' right now, especially since I'm gonna have to spend about that to be able to use the barn for a shop. Of course, it's all ifs and buts 'til things settle out. 

Mom said, "Right now I think you need to wait a few weeks. We can clean the barn and get ready to start workin' on it. Talk to Raymond's electrician. Tell him what you're doin' and see what he recommends. Maybe the work can be done in stages." 

After thinking about what she said I told her, "Mom, you're right. I've been overwhelmed by thinking about doin' the entire barn at one time. Right now I have a 24' by 36' shop. Two bays in the barn would give me a 40' by 50' area, which is more'n double what I've got now. We could start at the front and finish the first two bays, includin' the feed room. Then as time and money permit we can add another bay. That'll keep costs down." 

"That solves my problem," I told her happily. 

She asked, "Isn't Larry gettin' married the Friday before Labor Day?" 

"Yeah," I said. "What're you thinkin' now?" 

"Well, I've got some vacation time I need to take before the middle of November. You said Raymond would have his jobs shut down the full weekend for Labor Day includin' Monday didn't you? Didn't you also say that you wouldn't be able to start a new job 'til the Wednesday after?" 

"That was what I said," I told her. "Larry and I'll probably finish a job the Wednesday or Thursday before he gets married. Raymond said the painter won't have all the tapin' and beddin' done on that big house in Longview 'til the Tuesday after Labor Day. He probably won't get materials delivered 'til then either. School starts the week before so I'll be workin' late hours then. I'll have school the Tuesday after also." 

Mom thought and said disgustedly, "Well, damn. I was hopin' we could have a long weekend together. I forgot about school startin' the week before Labor Day." 

"Yeah, it does," I said disgustedly. "That ain't but a week off. The first break is the county fair in October. Then there's Thanksgiving. After that's the two weeks at Christmas and New Years. Memorial Day would be the next chance to go with good weather." 

"Well, we were talkin' about taking a week or so after you graduate. Instead of goin' to the coast we could go campin' instead," she suggested. 

"That's somethin' to think about. I'll probably still be workin' on the barn, too," I said. "We'll just have to see where we are." 

"I know where we are," she said, giggling. 

"OK. I'll play along. Where are we?" I asked with a chuckle. 

"We're sittin' at the table," she said, laughing. 

"Where'd you rather be?" I asked, having a good idea. 

"Well, given my rathers, I'd rather be campin' or in bed with you," she said. "Wouldn't you?" 

*** 

The next two weeks at work and home were very busy. Larry and I finished the Center Point house and completed a smaller one on the Thursday before his wedding. He had enrolled in the vocational program like I was and shifted over to working afternoons and evenings with me after school started. He was glad to have the break during the holiday weekend. 

I took the Saturday before school started to meet with Raymond. We looked at my plans for the barn to see if I'd missed anything. He wanted his electrician to look at the project since the electrical service would have to be upgraded to handle the woodworking machinery. He agreed with doing the work in stages. Our tentative plan was to do the work over the winter during rainy days since this would be in the dry. 

I'd agreed to stand up with Larry at his wedding. It was planned for 2:00 pm that Friday afternoon at her parent's home. They had a beautifully landscaped back yard that would be a perfect place for their wedding. They had a small ceremony planned with only the families and a few friends in attendance. 

Mom was going to be there with me. We planned to leave for the farm right after to set up camp that night. I'd made a trip to the farm the weekend before to get everything ready at the campsite. The tractor and brush hog had made quick work of the mowing. The fire ring was cleaned and I'd cut and stacked some deadfall for firewood. All we'd have to do is load and ice down the coolers. 

*** 

Finally. Larry and Karen were married. They were going to have an abbreviated honeymoon at the Six Flags over Texas amusement park in Arlington. He had to be back for school on Tuesday after Labor Day, as did I. 

We left Karen's parents and headed to the farm. I'd carried our clothes and food out there the weekend before. The only stop we had to make was to ice the coolers. We planned to change clothes at Grandma's and load the food and gear before heading for the lake. A long weekend of camping, fishing, and relaxing beckoned. 

During the drive we talked. I said, "Mom, seeing Larry get married has got me thinkin'. What would happen if I meet a girl? We've gotten very close and the last thing I want to do is hurt you. What do I do?" 

Mom said, "I know what you mean, Baby. I love having you in my bed at night, and I love the sex. You're givin' me somethin' I thought I'd never have again. I told you before and I'll say it again. I'll give it all up for your future. Your future is the most important thing. Don't lock yourself in with an old lady." 

"Mom, you're not old, you're in your prime," I said. 

Arriving at the farm, we went in to change and visit with Grandma. As always, she was glad to see us. After I had my clothes changed, I moved the truck close to the smokehouse to load out the tent, sleeping bags, and lanterns. We'd already loaded the cooking gear at home after we'd cleaned everything. Grandma and Mom loaded the perishable items in the coolers while I was busy with everything else. We had bacon, eggs, ground beef, and salad vegetables. Everything else was canned or dry. 

Grandma asked us to come in Monday morning. She said she wanted to talk to us and offered to have lunch ready. We agreed. 

We got in the truck and headed for the lake. Arriving at the campsite, Mom was pleased with the way I'd cleaned it up and had it ready. We still had a couple of hours of good daylight left to get set up. The first order of business was to light a fire for cooking. Taking advantage of Dad's idea, I had a rope I tied around the tree to use as a support for the tent. I went one better though. Using some scraps of lumber, I'd made supports that would fit into the stake pockets of the truck bed. They were perfect supports for the rope and gave us more headroom in the truck bed. The tent was large enough to cover the bed and have a couple of feet past the tailgate. 

We staked the sides down and unloaded the coolers. I set up a short stepladder to use for climbing into the bed of the truck and set up the folding lawn chairs. While I was getting supper started, Mom was in the bed of the truck arranging the sleeping bags. I had a full sheet of plywood in the bed of the truck to make a smooth floor. 

"Hey, Baby," Mom said. 

Turning, there she was. She was standing beside the truck naked as the day she was born, except for her shoes. 

Looking at me, she said, "You're overdressed." 

I stood and started removing clothing. Once I was down to my shoes, I asked, "Is this what you were lookin' for?" 

Coming to where I was, Mom hugged me and wrapped her hand around my penis before saying, "This is exactly what I was lookin' for." 

There was a light, cooling breeze that was very enjoyable. With the breeze mosquitoes would not be much of a problem. We did have insect repellent if needed, though. 

We ate and watched the evening twilight darken into full night. I'd lit one of the lanterns so we had light for cleaning up. I'd filled a large pot with water from the lake and placed it over the fire to heat while we ate and watched the sunset. The cleanup was finished in short order. Mom had bought two six packs of beer. She got two of them and her cigarettes before sitting in my lap. We each lit up and opened the beers. 

"This is what Bill and I'd do," she said. "We loved camping like this." 

"I like it too," I said. "I'm glad you had this idea. This is nothin' like the campin' we did in the scouts." 

"I'm sorry you had to drop out to work," she said sadly. "Every young man needs the experience." 

"Yeah, but he also has to make a livin'," I said. "Most of those guys are headed for college. I'm satisfied with my life. I've already got things they'll be a long time gettin'." 

"What do you mean?" she asked. "I'd always hoped we could figure a way for you to go to college." 

"Well, Mom, I've got a good job. I enjoy what I'm doin'. Grandma's givin' me the farm and house, I own my truck and tools, and ain't in debt for any of it," I said proudly. "I've also got some savings and you to share my life with right now. What more do I need?" I asked. 

"You need to be thinkin' about the future," she said. "We'll see where you are in a couple of years. I still say you need to be thinkin' about a girl." 

"Mom, that's in the future. Right now I need to be concerned about how I'm gonna grow a business. I've already told Larry that I'd have a job for him as long as he wanted it. It looks like he'll stay with me and make a good hand," I told her. 

"We'll talk about this later," she said. "First, get the lantern and go with me. I need to pee." 

I had dug a slit trench away from the campsite last weekend when I was mowing. Picking up the lantern, I escorted her there. I watched while Mom straddled the trench, squatted, and peed. After she finished I told her, "I better go too." 

We went back to the fire, which had burned down to coals by now. We got the soap and a washcloth out to clean up some before bedding down. 

The sleeping bags were laid out in the truck bed. We left our shoes on the tailgate before lying down together. 

*** 

Waking the next morning I found we hadn't moved during the night. I was lying beside Mom with her in my arms. The first thing to do was to get a fire started so we could cook breakfast and make coffee. Slipping my sneakers on I crawled out of bed. I took a few steps from the truck to take the morning piss. Oh what a relief. 

There was a layer of ash in the fire ring. The coals from last night's fire had burned out overnight. A new fire was blazing shortly. The coffee pot was next. We had an old stovetop percolator that worked well on the grate over the campfire. Shortly the aroma of coffee was wafting on the morning breeze. Mom had awakened and went to the slit trench to take care of business. Looking over, I saw her squatted down. 

While the coffee was perking I took the large water pot to the lake to fill it with water. We would need it to clean the dishes and us after breakfast. There were two ten-gallon containers of drinking water in the truck. 

Mom started cooking breakfast while I unpacked the fishing gear. About the time I finished she called me to eat. While we were eating Mom said, "We'd better clean up and straighten up after we eat. While you were loading up the tent and stuff yesterday, I was talking to Grandma while we loaded the coolers," she told me. "She said something about driving down here today and fishin' with us. I don't know when she'll be here or if she's even comin' but we'd better get some clothes on to be ready." 

"Yeah, I guess we'd better," I said sadly. 

We finished eating and washed the dishes. Since there was hot water available, we each took a sponge bath and dried off before rummaging through the truck to find clean clothes. 

We were sitting together talking, when we heard a car coming through the woods. Shortly we saw a Jeep Wagoneer. There were three people inside. 

The car stopped and the doors opened. Grandma got out of the front passenger seat. Another lady slightly older than Mom had been driving. A girl around my age got out of the back seat. The lady driving appeared to be in her mid forties, about my height and weight, with short, brunette hair. The girl was about five foot four with long dark brunette hair. She had a slender figure, mostly concealed by her loose fitting jeans and tee shirt. She looked familiar, but I couldn't quite place her. 

"Ya'll aren't fishin'," Grandma said. "Ya'll are just sittin' around doin' nothin'." 

We stood as Mom said, "Grandma, we were talkin' about how nice a pier and boat would be. Who's that with you?" she asked. 

"Patsy, Mike, this is Maggie Reynolds and her daughter Amanda. They're neighbors of mine. Maggie and her husband Charles own part of the old Harrison place." 

I now knew who they were. Maggie was the lady Grandma had told us about a few weeks ago. She was the daughter involved in the fight over the barn. Theirs was the adjoining property. 

"Maggie, Amanda, this is one of my daughters, Patsy. That lunk there is my grandson Mike." 

We offered Grandma and Mrs. Reynolds our chairs. 

Mrs. Reynolds said, "Amanda, get our chairs out of the car." 

I went with Amanda to help unload what they'd brought. There were three folding lawn chairs, fishing tackle, and a cooler. We carried the items to where our chairs were by the fire ring and sat the cooler in the shade under the tree. 

After we were all seated, Grandma said, "I hope ya'll don't mind us intrudin' on you. I invited Maggie and Amanda to come fishin' here a while back. This weekend was the first chance they had." 

"Grandma, it's no bother to us," I said. "We were plannin' to use this weekend to mostly relax anyway. That's what we were doin' when ya'll drove up." 

Mom asked, "Mrs. Reynolds, what does your family do? It doesn't look like you're actively farmin'." 

Mrs. Reynolds said, "First, ya'll call me Maggie. My husband is a fireman for the city of Longview. He's on duty today. I work as a bookkeeper for the First National Bank in Gilmer. Amanda will be starting at Kilgore College this coming week. She's plannin' to take accounting there. What about ya'll?" 

Mom replied, "I'm a nurse at Dr. Johnson's office. Bill, my husband, died in a traffic accident eight years ago. Mike can tell you about himself." 

"I'm still in school," I told them. "I'll graduate next spring. I'm workin' as a trim carpenter and cabinetmaker for Raymond Fields." 

Amanda asked, "You go to school in Gilmer, don't you?" 

"Yeah, I do," I replied. "I shoulda graduated this past spring, but was enrolled in the vocational program and workin'. It's takin' me an extra year because of course schedulin'. I go to class in the mornings and work afternoons and evenings. Depending on where the jobs are located I'm usually home by nine or ten at night." 

"I've seen you around school in the mornings," Amanda said. "I'd wondered why I never saw you after lunch." 

"Yeah," I said, "I've been workin' that way for the past three years." 

Mrs. Reynolds asked, "Do you do any work outside of your job? I'm lookin' for someone to put new cabinets in the old house. Right now it's the way it was when Momma and Dad were alive. It really needs some help." 

"Mrs. Reynolds," I started to say. 

"I said call me Maggie," she interrupted. 

"OK, Maggie," I said. "Yes, I do work on weekends when my schedule permits. My job with Raymond has to come first, though. Sometimes I have to work on Saturdays for him when we're behind and tryin' to get a job finished. Right now I can't make any promises because we're startin' a large four bedroom, three bath house close to Longview this comin' week. My helper and I are gonna be busy on that one for about three weeks." 

"I'm also gonna be busy tryin' to get the barn here cleaned and reworked into something I can use for a cabinet shop," I told her. "I'd like to see what you want done, though. Why don't we plan on a couple of weeks from now? I'd like your husband to be there also if you don't mind." 

"That sounds good to me," Maggie said. 

The conversation turned general in nature until Grandma said, "Well, this isn't gettin' any fishin' done." 

The activities turned to trying to catch fish. Grandma showed us where there was a bream bed that would always produce some nice bluegill. All the ladies, including Amanda, had no trouble baiting hooks and taking the fish off. By lunchtime they'd caught fifteen that weighed over a pound each, which was a nice haul. 

We stopped for lunch and more conversation. The fish were still alive in an empty cooler with water. Maggie and Amanda had chicken salad in their cooler, along with a loaf of bread. Mom and I dug out some pickles, olives, and carrot and celery sticks to add to the meal. Between us there were drinks also. 

Grandma said, "Patsy, you're right about the pier and boat. There's a deep hole over on the other side of the lake where that steep hillside is. Daddy always talked about how good the fishin' was over there. A boat's the only way to get there, though. He had an old wooden rowboat that finally rotted about fifteen years ago." 

That was another idea I filed away. I knew where I could get some used oilfield pipe and angle iron for scrap prices. That material would make a good support and frame for a pier. A small aluminum flat-bottomed boat wouldn't be that expensive either. 

After eating lunch and cleaning up, we all moved to the shade of the oak tree behind the truck. Amanda and Maggie were interested in how I had the rope and tent rigged. 

Maggie said to Amanda, "Amanda, you always talk about wantin' to go campin'. This is a neat way to sleep off the ground." 

Amanda replied, "Yeah, it really is. I like this. I wouldn't have to worry about critters bein' in the sleepin' bag with me." Turning to me she asked, "How'd you think of this?" 

"Well, it wasn't my idea," I told her. "Mom was tellin' me about how she and Dad would camp here. He used a tarp over the rope for a tent. The tent we're usin' belongs to my uncle. I had the idea to make the supports to raise the rope and give more headroom over the truck bed." 




Amanda Pt. 02



Grandma said, "We used to use a tarp tied to the wagon side and staked out for a tent when we'd camp here." 

Maggie asked, "How long has this lake been here? It looks like it's been here a while." 

Grandma told her, "Mike's great-great grandfather built the lake about 1900. He'd cut and sold the timber, clearing the area. The dam was built with a team of mules and a slip. That's why that deep hole is over by that hillside. Most of the dirt was dug out of there." 

Amanda looked around, saying, "This would really be a nice place to have a small cabin. I'd sure like to live at a place like this." 

Grandma told her, "You'll have to talk to Mike. I'm havin' the deed done right now to give this place to him." 

Amanda looked at me asking, "Mike, this is gonna be yours? What would it take to be able to come fishin' or campin' here? I'd love that! There's not a place like this on our farm." 

Looking into Amanda's large brown eyes, I said, "Not much. All you'd have to do is ask. I don't know that I'd want a lot of people comin' back here, but you're a neighbor and my Grandma thinks a lot of you. She's mentioned you several times when I've been out here. From what she said I'd feel comfortable letting you and your parents come here and fish. Past that I'd have to think about it. I don't want the lake or area around it messed up." 

Amanda looked at Maggie asking, "Momma, can we come back sometime? I know we won't make a mess and will clean up. What do you think?" 

Maggie said, "Amanda, I think we can, but we'd want to ask Mike before comin' because he might be here himself. Remember, we're the guests and we always need to get his permission before comin' over here." 

About mid afternoon Maggie said, "Amanda, we need to be thinkin' about gettin' home. Charles will be home about six lookin' to eat." 

I said, "Maggie, take the fish and have them. We'll catch some more this evenin' or tomorrow. I'll even clean 'em for you if you can wait a few minutes." 

Surprisingly, Amanda volunteered to help with the cleaning. "You'll have to show me how," she said. 

Maggie said, "Ya'll get busy then." 

Amanda and I started cleaning fish. I had to show her how to scale them and then remove the heads and innards. She willingly took to the job. While we were working I asked, "Amanda, you don't have a boyfriend?" 

"No," she replied, "I don't. Most of the guys I know are immature with only one thing on their mind. I've dated a few, but there aren't that many around with decent plans for the future. You're already workin' and have your future planned out. I like that. What about you? No girl?" 

"No, there's not," I told her. "I've been too busy to think about it much. I've also not been one to talk much. I'm kinda quiet and shy. Also, the few girls I know at school are either stuck up or have boyfriends." 

"What are your plans after college?" I asked. 

"I'd like to stay close to home," she said. "I want to work as a bookkeeper or accountant with a small business. I wanna be where I can get out some. I love the outdoors." 

By this time we had the fish cleaned and packed on ice. We washed our hands down with lemon juice to control the fish odor. After showing then to her, Maggie said there were too many. Mom and I both told her to leave what she didn't want with Grandma. 

After the goodbyes, they got back in the car and left. 

I cleaned up the mess we had made with cleaning the fish and buried the offal. 

Mom and I sat again quietly for a few minutes. She broke the silence by asking, "What did you think of the neighbors?" 

"They seem like nice down to earth people," I replied. 

"What about Amanda?" she asked. "You acted like you were struck with her." 

Without thinking I said, "Yeah, she seems like a really nice girl. She has plans for the future and knows what she wants. She'll make somebody a nice wife someday." 

"Now you see what I told you a few weeks ago," Mom said. "She's the type you should be lookin' for. I'm sure you noticed that she's attractive but not a ravin' beauty. There's always more to a person than looks." 

"But Mom," I said, "What about us? We've gotten as close as any husband and wife. I love you and sure don't want to hurt you or your feelings." 

Mom said, "Baby, that's part of what bein' a parent is all about. All parents make sacrifices for their children. Givin' you up is one of those sacrifices. If you wanted to go out with Amanda or someone like her I'll step back and cheer you on. Your happiness and future are the most important things to me. They always have been and always will be." 

I understood what she was saying but didn't like it. It was too bad I couldn't have both Mom and a girl. 

"I'm kinda selfish," she said. "I'd like to have some grandchildren to spoil. Now, I know what you're thinkin' and wonderin'. Did we set you up with Amanda? The answer is that we arranged for you to meet. Your grandma and I have been talkin' and worryin' about you for years. Grandma's been tellin' you about Amanda for a while now. 

"Is she the girl Grandma's been talkin' about?" I asked. "That girl sounds a lot like you." 

"Yep, she's the one," Mom said. "Maggie's been worryin' about Amanda for almost as long. We've been concerned because neither of you has shown much interest in datin'. Your grandma decided to put you two together and see what happened. Maggie and I enthusiastically helped." 

"Now," she said, "keep in mind all we did was arrange for you and Amanda to meet. What happens now is up to the two of you. I will say that you didn't seem to have any trouble talkin' or spendin' time with her." 

"Mom," I began, "how will this affect us? We've gotten a lot closer than we should and I don't want either of us to hurt the other." 

"Baby, right now it won't affect us," Mom said. "Until you decide that you want to devote yourself to someone else, I'll be here. That'll have to be your decision. I told you after our practice date I'd step aside if you found someone else. Something else to think about is that I know guys talk. Don't worry, women do too. How'll you answer the questions about why you're not datin' or gettin' pussy? It'll happen. How'll you answer?" 

"Yeah," I said, "I've wondered about what women talked about. That reminds me, how about Darla at the doctor's office? She was wondering about me the last time I saw her. She was wantin' to set me up." 

"You're right," she said. "I didn't tell you but she was pumpin' me for information about you every day for over a week. She kept wantin' to know who you were datin'. She hasn't said much since then, but I know she's still wonderin'." 

"Well, I guess you'll have to keep her wonderin'," I said, laughing. 

"Not to change the subject but are we plannin' on cookin' hamburgers tonight?" I asked. "If we are I need to get the fire goin' good again." 

"Yeah, that's what I was thinkin' about," she said, standing. "The first thing I'm gonna do is take my clothes off and go pee, though." 

There were still coals from our earlier fires today. I'd lit one for breakfast and built it up again at lunch to heat water for clean up. Throwing a few sticks of the dry deadfall on the coals had the fire blazing again in just a few minutes. I filled our water pot again to heat while we ate. We'd be ready to start cooking shortly. 

I had my shirt off and was taking my shorts off when I heard Mom call. 

She'd stopped short of the slit trench, calling out, "Mike, bring the axe or something. There's a snake over here." 

I grabbed the axe, heading that way. Sure enough, there was a coachwhip snake there. It was a simple matter to take care of the problem. I got the shovel at the slit trench to bury the remains. Looking at Mom, I said with a chuckle, "At least you didn't pee yourself." 

"No," she said with a shudder. "I don't know how I didn't. What kinda snake is that? It scared the heck outta me!" 

"It's just a coachwhip. They're harmless but I'm sure you don't want it around," I told her. 

"You're right. Get rid of that thing!" she exclaimed. 

I scooped up the snake and moved away to conduct the burial. After I finished with my business I looked and Mom hadn't moved. "What's wrong?" I asked her. 

"Get over here. I'm not goin' anywhere without you," she said. 

When I got to her, she grabbed my arm with both hands. "I don't want you more'n three feet from me!" she said. "I'm still shakin'." 

I escorted her to the trench and stood there while she took care of her business. I then had to escort her back to the truck and coolers. My sense of humor got the better of me when I asked, "Do you want me to get a rubber snake for home? We can leave it layin' in the floor or put it on the furniture." 

Slapping my arm, she declared vehemently, "You bring a rubber snake into my house and you'll go out right behind it!" 

I was amazed. Here was a woman that would work on badly injured people in a hospital emergency room yet went totally berserk over a harmless snake. Thinking about it I also remembered that she was the same way about a roach or a mouse. It had to be one of those wonderful things about women. 

I stayed close while we prepared and cooked supper. Mom wouldn't tolerate my getting more than five feet away from her location. 

After we ate and cleaned up the dishes, she was beginning to relax slightly. I was able to go to the truck to get my cigarettes and to the cooler to get a couple of beers. 

I sat with Mom in my lap as we watched the sunset darken into twilight and full night again. We shared the closeness along with a couple of cigarettes while sipping on the beers. We had a very relaxing time talking and watching the stars and Milky Way gradually appear in the clear evening sky. I had lit a lantern before dark but had it trimmed low, sitting on the ground beside the chair we were seated in. 

After a while, Mom got up and took the lantern to get a couple of beers. She came back and handed me one before sitting in the other chair, putting the lantern back between us. 

I opened the beer, lit a cigarette, and sat thinking. 

I was thinking about my future, mainly about getting my business started and operating smoothly. Many of the pieces were either in place or would be in the next few months. I'd already decided that I'd have to have another man for a helper. Would it be best to find a young man and train him? There was also the matter of finding a bookkeeper or accountant to keep up with the financial side of things. 

So far I had operated on a cash basis, buying material as needed for each job. That would have to change. I would need accounts with the local lumberyards and millwork suppliers. Someone that understood bookkeeping or accounting would be essential so I could keep the bills paid and figure the payroll for the employees. 

I had been deep in thought for about a half hour when Mom said, "Hey, you're bein' really quiet over there. What're you thinkin' about?" 

"I've been thinkin' about everything I need to get done," I said. "Most of it'll be in place or nearly so by next spring. The thing I'm concerned about is the bookkeepin' end. I'll have to be buyin' materials on account. There'll be bills to pay and then there's all the deduction stuff with payin' the hands. That's gonna take a lot of time I won't really have." 

"Remember, I told you I'd taken some basic bookkeeping in high school," Mom said. "I'd have to review things but think I can keep up with it for a while. I could probably ask Maggie about helping me set everything up." 

"I'd hate for you to take that on," I said. "You're tired most evenings when you get in from work. You need the time to relax." 

Mom asked, "What about Amanda? She's gonna take accounting at college. She might want a part time job while she's in school. It'd be good experience for her and would help you out. Ya'll should at least talk about it. She may know a lot of it already since Maggie's a bookkeeper at the bank." 

Looking at her, I said, "You might be right. Do you think she'd be interested?" 

She said, "I think it's a good idea, but you need to be the one to ask her. I'm not doin' it for you." 

We sat for a short while longer before deciding it was time to bed down. 

*** 

Waking the next morning, I got out of the truck bed and started a fire. Mom was up shortly after heading for the slit trench. Apparently she was over the snake problem of yesterday. 

Coming to where I had the coffee brewing and water warming we exchanged good morning kisses. It didn't take long to cook, eat, and clean up from breakfast. 

We decided to fish again this morning. Going to where we were yesterday it didn't take long to have several nice fish. While fishing we talked about what we wanted to do for the day. After discussing things we decided to break camp after lunch and head home. There were some things that needed to be done before she went to work on Tuesday. I could take Monday and visit the lumberyards. 

We stopped fishing. While I was busy cleaning the catch, Mom was packing up our bedding and other items. We worked together to fold and pack the tent. Backing the truck to the tree I untied the rope and took down the supports. After loading everything we dressed and got in the truck headed for Grandma's house. 

Arriving at the house I backed the truck to the smokehouse and unloaded the camping gear with Mom's help. Grandma was surprised to see us, saying, "I didn't expect ya'll 'til tomorrow. What happened?" 

"Nothin'," Mom told her. "We talked about it and decided that we'd come in today. We need to do some laundry and other things at home tomorrow. Mike also wants to talk to the lumberyards, if they're open." 

Grandma said, "Mike, I need to talk to you for a few minutes." 

"OK, Grandma," I said. "We'll be in the house when I get everything put away." 

After finishing, Mom and I went in the house. Grandma was sitting at the table in the kitchen. We sat down and I asked, "What can I do for you, Grandma?" 

"I just wanted to let you know the lawyer called Friday afternoon," she said. "He has the deed and transfer papers done. We'll need to meet with him this coming week to sign the papers and take them to the courthouse for recording. What does your schedule look like?" 

"I'll have Tuesday afternoon off, Grandma," I said. "Right now I'm scheduled to start a big job close to Longview on Wednesday if Raymond gets the materials delivered. I may have to be workin' on that one on Saturdays too." 

"Well, I'll call the lawyer first thing Tuesday mornin' to see if we can get everything done that afternoon," she said. "If we can, I'll call the school and leave a message for you. Check with them before you leave." 

"I'll do that," I told her. "Now, Grandma, I need to get Amanda's phone number from you. I need to talk to her." 

I noticed the look she exchanged with Mom. Mom just sat there and smiled. I knew what they were thinking. 

Grandma reached over and picked a paper up. Handing it to me with a big smile, she said, "Here. This is what you need." 

Looking at the paper I saw a phone number written down. 

"Go call her. She's at home now, waitin'," Grandma said with a laugh. 

"Ya'll and Maggie set us up, didn't you?" I asked, chuckling. 

"Go! Call! Now!" Grandma and Mom said together. 

I went to the living room and dialed the number. I knew this was one of those times when I had to cooperate with the inevitable. The phone was answered on the second ring. 

"Hello," a man's voice said. 

"Hello," I said. "Is Amanda available?" 

"Who's callin'?" the voice asked. 

"This is Mike Davidson," I replied. 

"Who's Mike Davidson?" was the question. 

I could hear a voice in the background saying "Daaaaddy!" that sounded a lot like Amanda. 

"OK, OK," I could hear the man say. 

"Hey, Mike," Amanda said while giggling. 

"Hi, Amanda," I replied. "When would be a good time for us to get together? I need to talk to you." 

"Where are you?" she asked. 

"I'm over here at Grandma's house," I told her. 

"I'll be there in about ten minutes," she said, before hanging up the phone. 

I hung up the phone and walked back to the kitchen. Mom and Grandma were both grinning at me. "Well?" they asked. 

"Well what?" I returned the question, knowing what they wanted to know. 

"That was a short call," Mom said. 

"Yep," I said back, sitting there looking at them both. 

Irate women assaulted me from both sides. 

While I was trying to survive, we heard a car coming up the driveway. 

Grandma looked out the kitchen window, saying, "That's Maggie's car. I wonder what she wants." Looking again, she said, "OH!" before turning and looking at me. 

I got up and headed for the back door. Going out on the back porch, I said, "Hey, Amanda." 

She turned and started toward me. "Hi, Mike. What did you want to talk about?" she asked with a big smile on her face. 

By this time Grandma and Mom were on the porch. Amanda came up on the porch and hugged Grandma. Stepping back, she looked at me. I held my hand out and said "Come sit in the swing with me. I need to talk to you." 

We walked across and sat in the porch swing. Amanda tucked one leg up into the seat under her other at one end while I sat at the other. 

Looking into Amanda's face I was reminded of what Mom had said. She was a nice looking girl with a medium, well-tanned complexion. Her hair was a dark brunette that was almost black, pulled into a ponytail that reached the middle of her back. Well-defined eyebrows arched over large brown eyes that I could drown in. Her nose was slightly large over her cupid bow mouth. She was wearing another loose tee shirt with shorts this time. Her slender legs were well formed and seemed to go on forever. 

"Amanda," I began, "what are your plans while you're goin' to school at the college?" 

"I'm goin' to have classes in the mornings five days a week, and an afternoon class on Tuesday and Thursday," she said. "I'll be home by about 1:30 on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and by 3:30 on Tuesday and Thursday this semester." 

"Are you plannin' on workin' any?" I asked. 

"I haven't planned on it," she said. "It'd mean workin' at the Dairy Queen or somewhere like it in the evenings. A lot of those places want you to close at 10:00 or 11:00 and then clean up. That would really cut into the studyin' and sleepin' time. I want early classes if I can get 'em." 

"If you're interested I might have an opening for a part time bookkeeper. I don't think it'd take more'n an hour or two per day to start. Would you be interested in workin' with me after the first of the year?" I asked. "You'll have to tell me what I need to get for books because I don't know." 

"Yeah, I can show you," she said gladly. "I took bookkeeping in high school and Mamma can help me if I get stuck with something." 

"Come with me, Amanda," I said, getting up and offering her my hand. "I want to show you something and see what you think." 

"Sure," she said, taking my hand and standing. 

Looking at Mom and Grandma I said, "We'll be back in a little bit." 

Holding Amanda's hand we walked down to the old barn. I was explaining what my plans were on the way. She seemed to be very interested. When we arrived at the barn we went into the main area, so she could visualize what I'd told her. 

"Wow, it's big!" she exclaimed. 

"Yeah, it's about six thousand square feet. I want to start with the first two thousand behind the feed room and add space as I need it," I told her. 

"What are you gonna do with that room?" she asked, pointing at the feed room. 

"That's gonna be the office," I told her. "Come on, the door's open." 

We walked over and up the steps. I opened the door and turned the light on. Amanda looked around and asked, "What's gonna be here?" 




Amanda Pt. 02



"I'm gonna put a restroom in and leave the rest of it open. I figure one desk for me and one for my bookkeeper or accountant. I want to put a couple of windows in the front wall along with a door," I told her. "Do you think you could work with me here?" I asked. 

Amanda grabbed my arm in a tight hug. "I'd be glad to help you. This'd be perfect for me. It's close to home and from what you've described it looks like it'd be a perfect place to work a few hours each week. Thank you for thinkin' of me." 

We went out into the barn. I asked Amanda, "Do you mind if I smoke?" 

"No, not at all," she said. "Do you have an extra? I occasionally smoke myself." 

"Sure," I said, pulling out my cigarettes and lighter. I offered one to Amanda before taking mine. I lit my lighter and held it for Amanda. She held my hand in hers while she lit up. Her thumb was lightly tracing over the back of my hand. 

After I'd lit up, I looked Amanda in the eyes and said, "You know we've been had don't you? You do know that yesterday was a set up to get us together, don't you?" 

Amanda started laughing. "Yeah. I figured somethin' was goin' on when Mamma told me we were goin' fishin' all of a sudden yesterday mornin'. Especially after she spent a long while whisperin' on the phone to your grandmother the night before. She's been askin' me about why I don't date or have a boyfriend for a good while now. I asked her about it last night while we were cookin' dinner. She finally admitted that it was a set up to get us to meet. How'd you find out?" 

"Well, I've been goin' through the same torment and torture you have," I told her. "My mom has been buggin' me to no end about it. I told you yesterday that I was kinda quiet and shy. Until recently, I've been so scared of talking' to a girl I'd run from 'em. I didn't know how to start a conversation." 

"I was sure surprised yesterday when ya'll showed up at the lake," I said. "I'm glad now that you did. I got to meet you." 

That earned a big smile from Amanda. "I got to meet you too," she said. 

"I was gonna say," I continued, "that I figured it out pretty quick yesterday from some of the comments made and the looks I saw. My mom finally admitted that she, my grandmother and your mom were all in on it. They've been wantin' to get us to meet for several months now. Grandma's been tellin' me about you for a while now. I like what she's told me. I've always been too shy to do anything about it though." 

Amanda said, "Mike, I feel like I know you already. Your grandmother's been tellin' Mamma and me about you since we moved here five years ago. I've been watchin' you at school for the past couple of years. I really like what I've heard and what I've seen." 

"OK. We know this was all a set up. What are we gonna do about it?" I asked her. "You know as soon as we get back to the house they'll be wantin' to know all the gory details about what we've been doin' down here." 

Amanda thought for a moment before saying with a laugh, "We're in trouble. You were holdin' my hand when we walked off the porch. I'd bet the phone line between your grandmother's house and ours has melted down by now." 

"Oh Lord, I didn't even think about that," I said, laughing with her. "They'll be talkin' about that for the next six months. If that was your dad that answered the phone when I called, I'd say he's in on it too." 

"You're right," Amanda said. "He and Mamma've had their heads together for the longest. He sorta wants to intimidate all the boys. I guess it's his way of protectin' me." 

"You mean I'm gonna catch heck from him then," I said. 

"Amanda replied, "Maybe not so much. I overheard him tellin' Mamma a while back that he hoped I'd find somebody that was responsible and motivated." 

"I guess we'd better go and face the music then," I said. "I just wonder what kinda third degree we're gonna get." 

"Why don't we mess with 'em?" Amanda asked. "We'll tell 'em that it was strictly business and I'll say that you were all stiff and formal, stutterin' around and blushin' every time you looked at me." 

I could see the potential for a lot of fun with that. "Why not," I agreed. "That'd pay 'em back some." 

After lighting another cigarette and offering one to Amanda, I said, "Amanda, I don't know what you think, but if we were to date or anything I do want you to know that I'll never try to do anything you don't want to do. I remember you sayin' yesterday that the guys you'd dated all had just one thing on their mind. If we were to date, you'd have to be the one to determine how far we went. I won't even try to kiss you without you tellin' me it's what you want. I wouldn't want to push you into anything." 

"Mike," she said, "I could be very comfortable with that. You're not hintin' around about takin' me out are you?" 

"That depends on you," I told her. "Would you want to?" 

"I might," she said, giggling at me. "Your shyness shows. I kinda like it," she said, leaning over and kissing my cheek. 

"You're kinda cute," she said. "You're hesitant about everything except your business, not wanting to do something I wouldn't like. That's so much different than the guys I've dated before. I feel like I can trust you. Those other guys were always tryin' to feel me and wantin' me to feel them. I just didn't like it." 

"Amanda," I said, "Maybe I shouldn't tell this but I want you to know about my mom and me. As part of tryin' to get me more comfortable with girls, she and I did a 'practice date' to a restaurant and drive in theatre. She wanted me to experience what it would be like. During this 'date' she explained a lot of things to me about how girls would signal what they wanted. That did more than anything to make me more comfortable and taught me a lot." 

Amanda laughed, "Maybe I should talk to her so I can learn these signals." 

"Well, you could go out with me," I said. "I can tell you if I notice you using any of them." 

"Mike, I hear you talkin' and hintin' around," Amanda said. "If you want me to go out with you you're gonna have to ask me and tell me where we're goin'." 

"All right," I said. "I can take a hint. Amanda, do you like Mexican food and movies?" I asked. 

She started giggling and got very formal, "Yes, Mr. Davidson, I believe I do." 

I could play the same game. "Miss Reynolds, would you care to accompany me to El Chico for a repast, prior to attending the viewing of a motion picture at an outdoor venue tomorrow evening? The dress code is casual." I asked her. 

Amanda was holding her sides she was laughing so hard. Getting her laughter under control, she said, "Mr. Davidson, I would be pleased to accompany you to said events," before she cracked up again. 

I joined her in the laughter. 

Once we had the laughter under control we returned to Grandma's house again holding hands. She and Mom were still sitting on the back porch, watching us the entire way. As we came up the steps, Mom said, "Sure took ya'll a while to look at an old barn." 

Amanda piped up, saying, "It took me a while to understand what he was sayin' with all the mumblin' and stutterin' he did." 

Mom glared at me along with Grandma. She started saying, "Mike, what've I . . ." 

Amanda burst out laughing at Mom and Grandma's reaction, as did I. 

Mom was sputtering, trying to get a word in, when I said, "Gotcha!" 

Grandma said, "I oughta whip both of you." 

Amanda was still laughing when she said to Mom, "You shoulda seen your faces. It was so funny." 

"Well, what happened?" Mom asked. 

"We talked about what I'm gonna do down there and what I want her to do for me," I told them. "Amanda agreed to do the bookkeeping and accounting for me when I get started." 

Amanda said, "Yeah. It'll be exactly the type of work I want to do. Mike's plans for the office are gonna be neat. I'll be close to home and be able to work a few hours after school. I couldn't be happier." 

I cut in to say, "Yeah. We're gonna talk about it more tomorrow evenin'." 

Turning to Amanda, I said, "I'll be by to pick you up about 5:30 tomorrow." 

"Where are ya'll goin?" Mom wanted to know. 

Amanda told her, "We're gonna have a brief business discussion on the way to Longview. Then we're gonna eat and go to a movie." 

Mom said, "Don't forget, you've got school on Tuesday." 

"I know," I said. "We're not stayin' for the double feature. Amanda's got school too. I want to have her home by 10:30." 

Looking at her watch, Amanda said, "I'd better go, Mamma's waitin' on me to help with supper." 

I walked her to her car and opened the door for her. She kissed me on the cheek before getting in the car. "See ya," she said. 

"Tomorrow afternoon," I said, as I closed the door for her. I stood there as she started the car and drove away. 

Returning to the back porch, I hoped I was ready for the inquisition I knew was coming. 

Mom was waiting for me at the top of the steps. She asked, "Well, what happened?" 

"We told you," I said. "I told Amanda what my plans are and showed her the barn and feed room. She thinks it will be a neat place to work." 

"There has to be more," Mom said. "Ya'll were down there quite a while." 

"Well, we talked about how ya'll had set us up," I said. "That was when we had the idea to play the joke on you. I then asked her if she would go to El Chico and the movie with me. She said yes." 

"That's all?" Mom asked. 

"That's all," I said. "Are ya'll satisfied now?" I asked. 

Grandma said, "I'll call Maggie after while and find out." 

"What's goin' on?" I asked. "Ya'll act like you think we were misbehavin' down there. Neither one of us did anything. Amanda hugged my arm when I asked her to help me with my bookkeepin'. That's all, other'n holdin' hands." 

We continued to visit for a few minutes before Mom said, "We'd better get home. We need to unload the coolers and get a good hot bath." 

We said our goodbyes, got in the truck, and started home. 

On the way, Mom said, "Mike, we weren't trying to embarrass you. It's just you're my child about to go on his first real date. I'm very happy for you." 

"Mom," I said, "I didn't want to say anything in front of Grandma, but I tried to be the gentleman you've taught me to be. I told Amanda that if we dated, she would control what we did. She told me that her previous dates had been with guys with grabby hands and she didn't like it. I wanted her to know that I respected her and would follow her wishes." 

Continuing, I asked, "Mom, how's this gonna affect us? Are you really sure you want me to do this?" 

Mom thought a minute. I thought I saw a tear on her cheek. "What's wrong?" I asked her. 

"Absolutely nothing," she said. "I'm so proud of you for what you told me. I'm now so ashamed that I pushed you into doing the things we've done. I thought I was doing the right thing, but I see now that I was wrong." 

"What do you mean?" I asked. "Where else would I have learned what I know now? You've given me something that no one else has. I have knowledge about my body and a woman's body that most people don't. I realize it's something I can never tell about, but when the time's right I can use it to keep someone very happy." 

Continuing, I said, "Mom, I owe you everything. You and Dad gave me life as part of your love. Then you lost your love when he died. I feel like I'm finally able to give you something you've been missin' for so long. I do love you, both as my mom and as a woman." 

"I understand what you're sayin'," she said. "It's something I'm gonna have to live with, though." 

"Mom," I said, "I may have something that may help ease your mind." 

"What's that?" she asked. 

"I was tellin' Amanda about our trainin' date," I said. "I told her that you were tellin' me about the signals that girls use. She said that she should talk to you about those so she could learn 'em. I'll ask her in a roundabout way to see if she was serious. You could possibly tell her some of what you told me. Her mother may not have the knowledge you have or may not be willin' to talk about it." 

"Mike, I'd have to think about that. Give me a few days," she said. "I might have to talk to Maggie before I do. She might not want Amanda to know all that." 

"Mom, remember what you told me," I said. "Amanda's over eighteen. She's an adult." 

"I still want some time to think about it," she said. 

The talk turned to a general discussion. We were primarily trying to decide what we wanted to eat when we got home. 

After we got home, I backed the truck to the back door of the house so I could unload the coolers and foodstuffs we hadn't used. The fish were frozen with the remaining cold items going in the refrigerator. After everything was put away, we prepared a breakfast meal for supper. It was quick and easy without a lot of mess. 

I let Mom have the bathroom first for her shower. While she was bathing, I started a load of laundry. By the time she was finished, I was ready for the shower. Once finished, we settled in on the sofa to watch TV before bedtime. Mom was serious. She didn't sit in my lap and only allowed a kiss on the cheek when we went to bed. 

*** 

Waking the next morning, I went to the kitchen to start the coffee brewing. Mom was still sleeping. I had the coffee done and breakfast almost completely done when she came into the kitchen. I asked her to sit while I poured her coffee. Turning to the stove, I finished dishing up the meal, setting hers on the table. 

We were discussing the plans for the day. With the laundry I'd done the evening before, there wasn't much housework to do. I planned to clean my truck up before I went to pick up Amanda this afternoon. While we were talking the phone rang. Mom answered. It was Grandma with the Maggie report. It seems Amanda had endured the same thing I did when she got home. I was sorry not to have been there to support her like she did for me. I fully expected an interrogation when I went to get her today. 

After she ended the call, Mom turned and looked at me. "Now you've done it," she said. 

"What'd I do now?" I asked, wondering what was going on. 

"You're in deep now," Mom said. 

I began to suspect payback for the gotcha yesterday. "Tell me what I did," I said. "If I did it I don't know about it, whatever it is." 

"Amanda's dad wants to have a talk with you when you get there," Mom said seriously. She couldn't quite hide the hint of a grin in the corners of her mouth. 

Yep. Payback. Just what I thought. 

"OK. The joke's on me," I said. 

"No," Mom said, "I'm serious. He wants to talk to you about doing some cabinet work and possibly buildin' a chest for Amanda." 

"OK. I'll talk with him, but you know my work schedule," I said. "I'm pretty well booked 'til after Thanksgiving with Raymond's work. I hope that's not a problem." 

"I need to go into town to clean my truck up. I'll be back in a while," I said, as I headed out the door. 

Coming back home I showered and dressed. Mom was sitting on the sofa, looking lonely. I walked over and sat beside her. "Mom, are you alright?" I asked. "You look kinda down. I haven't done something to upset you have I?" 

"No, you haven't done anything," she said. "I was just sitting here thinking about how fast you've grown up. It seems like only a very few years ago that you were barely walking and learning to talk. Look at you now. You're a responsible young adult right on the verge of making your own way in life." 

"Now you don't worry about me," she said with a smile. "You go get your girl and have a good time tonight. Just be safe and be careful. I'll see you when you get back." 

Mom kissed my cheek and said, "Now go, and have fun." 

With that I left to drive to Amanda's home. I was reasonably sure the telephone was hot notifying Grandma to tell Maggie that I was coming. I was fully expecting the reception committee when I arrived. 

I pulled into Amanda's driveway at 5:15, a little early. I parked the truck and walked to the front door. I knocked and waited. I knocked again. This time I heard someone coming to the door. Amanda's father opened the door saying, "Who're you and what'd you want?" 

Being very polite I said, "Mr. Reynolds, I'm Mike Davidson. I'm here to take Amanda to dinner and a movie tonight." 

"I don't remember your asking my permission," he said gruffly with a twinkle in his eye. 

"Well, Sir, I'm informed that Amanda is over eighteen," I said with a smile. "That's an adult in this state. She's able to make her own decision regarding the matter. Since you insist, however, I ask your permission to take your daughter out tonight. I plan to have her home no later than 10:30 since we both have school tomorrow." 

I looked and saw Maggie laughing quietly in a doorway behind her husband. 

Mr. Reynolds turned and looked at Maggie, saying, "You told me and I didn't believe you. He'll do." Looking back at me he said, "Mike, come in and welcome to our home. Maggie'll let Amanda know you're here." 

"Pardon me Sir, but what were you told?" I asked. 

"Mike, first thing is I want you to call me Charles," he said. "The second thing is I was told you were a very polite but determined young man that wouldn't let anything stand in the way of what you wanted." 

"That's right, Dad," Amanda said from the doorway I'd seen Maggie in. "He's definitely a keeper." 

Looking at me she said, "Hi, Mike." 

"Hello, Amanda," I replied. "You look pretty this evening." 

Amanda was wearing a cream colored short sleeved satin blouse, a knee length full cut black skirt, dark stockings, and one inch black heels. She was lightly made up, her natural skin tone and tan didn't need much. She had on a warm pink lipstick and matching nail polish. A small silver heart necklace completed her ensemble. She looked beautiful. 

Amanda came to me. I took her hands in mine. Raising one, I kissed the back of it before releasing them. 

Hearing an intake of breath, I looked up to see Maggie watching me. 

Turning to Charles, I said, "Sir, I'm informed you wish to discuss a cabinet project." 

Laughing, he said, "Don't worry about it now. You kids go have a good time." 

Amanda turned to her parents, saying, "Bye, ya'll. We'll be careful and be back early." 

"Ya'll be safe," Maggie said, as we walked out the door. 

I held Amanda's hand as I escorted her to the truck. Opening the passenger side door, I assisted her into the seat, before closing the door for her. I got in and started the truck. Amanda said, "Look," as she pointed to the front of the house. Sure enough, a face was peeking through the curtain. 

We shared a laugh as I drove slowly away. 

Amanda was seated closer to the passenger door until we were out of sight of her house. She then scooted over close to me. Glancing at her I asked, "What happened to casual dress?" 

Smiling, she said, "I'm tryin' to make a good impression on my future employer." She then giggled, before asking me, "You don't appear too casual yourself. What happened?" 

"Let's just say that I'm tryin' to impress my prospective employee," I said, chuckling. I was wearing the clothes Mom had gotten me before our practice date. They were the best I owned. 

It was about a thirty minute drive from Amanda's home to the restaurant. 

"I think that concludes the business part of the evening," I said. "Now, tell me about Amanda." 

"What do you want to know?" she asked. 

"Well, I know you said you love the outdoors, fishin' and campin'," I said. "There has to be more." 

"OK," she said. "I like horses and ridin'. I was always climbin' trees and wantin' to help Dad with drivin' the tractor, and workin' around the farm. Mamma was the one that talked me into takin' bookkeepin' and accounting because she said it would come in handy no matter what I did. I was an A-B student in school. I never was much interested with the boys in school because most of 'em acted like idiots, always showin' out." 




Amanda Pt. 03



Authors Note – This is part 3 of the continuing story of Mike and Amanda. It picks up the next morning after the end of Part 2. Mike and Amanda's relationship develops and deepens. Mike and Patsy's connection is revealed. Mike is forced to make an impossible decision. I fully expect much grief for posting this in Incest/Taboo but want to keep the story all together. Enjoy and please vote. 

As before, tobacco use present. 

***** 

Part 3 - Plans Change Again 

We were on the road by 9:00. Mom and Karen were in the back seat, Larry and I in the front. Karen was talking about Amanda. I was listening when Karen said, "I don't think Amanda'll ever have a steady boyfriend. Every guy that went out with her never took her out again. I'm not sure what happened between 'em because she never would say. She'd only say that the guys were jerks." 

Mom asked, "Karen, do you think the guys might have done something Amanda didn't like?" 

Karen said, "I thought about that and asked her. She just wouldn't tell what it was. I just don't know what the deal is." 

Mom told her, "I'm sure you'll see Amanda today. She may surprise you." 

"What do you mean?" Karen asked. 

"Just wait and see," Mom said with a smile. 

We arrived at the farm. I saw Charles's truck at the barn. I backed to the large door. We all got out and Mom said, "I'm gonna go see Grandma." 

Larry, Karen, and I walked in the barn. The feed room door was open so I figured Charles was in there. He heard us and came out. I introduced Larry and Karen. 

"Hi, Mike," he said. "Now that you're here there goes my help." 

Amanda came out behind him. She saw Karen and said, "Karen! How've you been? I haven't seen you since last school year." 

Karen ran and hugged Amanda, saying, "I'm great. You need to meet my new husband, Larry. Do you know Mike? We came with him." 

Amanda said, "I know him. He's my boyfriend. I'm gonna be workin' here for him." 

"Your boyfriend?" Karen asked. "What happened?" 

Larry looked at me, asking, "Girlfriend? Boyfriend? When did this happen?" 

"A couple of weeks ago," I said. "Mom and I were campin' at the lake out here. Amanda, her mom, and Grandma came down to go fishin'. We met then and it's been downhill since." I started laughing. 

Amanda heard me. She came over, slapped my arm, and said, "I heard that. That's not what you were sayin' last night." She started laughing with me. 

Charles said, "Mike, I'll rescue you from that irate female. I need to ask a couple of questions." 

I kissed Amanda, saying, "I've gotta go. See you later, Sugar." Turning to Larry, I said, "Come on in the office." We followed Charles. 

Amanda said, "Don't be long, Honey. I'm waitin' and I'm worth it." 

Karen's eyes were wide open. Amanda was in for a lot of questions. 

Charles had set a new electrical panel beside the old one. He was running conduit up into what would be attic space. He wanted to know where I was going to install the door and windows and where outlets would be. I showed him where the restrooms were going to be and answered his other questions. I told him that I planned to start framing the additional walls next weekend. 

We also discussed locating the machinery in the shop. I told him I'd get that figured out this coming week. I had an idea and told Charles to leave an area open on the long interior wall. I wanted to put a window in there to see into the shop. Charles said that took care of what he needed. 

I asked Larry what he thought. He was impressed with what I wanted to do. He asked, "Mike, how soon are you movin' out here?" 

"Probably by Thanksgiving," I told him. "Grandma needs us out here. Mom's gonna talk to a realtor this week about listing our house. We're gonna sell it." 

"There goes my ride," he said. 

"Larry, you'll still be able to ride with me 'til school's out next spring," I said. "Don't worry about it." 

"Thanks Mike, I really appreciate that," Larry said. 

"Let's look at the shop," I said. 

When we walked out of the office, I saw that Amanda and Karen were in the back of the barn talking. I showed Larry what I planned to do. I told him that much of the work would be here in the shop, that the cabinets would be built here and delivered to the job for installation. I explained my ideas on building jigs to use multiple times and to speed up the work. He was enthusiastic about everything. 

*** 

While Larry, Charles, and I were occupied, Karen was asking questions. The first was, "Amanda, I never expected this out of you. What happened?" 

Amanda said, "Karen, it's real simple. I never met a man before. You can't compare him to those boys in high school." 

"What do you mean?" Karen asked. 

"Karen, Mike is a real man," Amanda said. "He owns everything you see out here, the land, this shop, the house, everything. He's been workin' since he was fifteen. Larry'll soon be workin' for him." 

"Yeah, I know," Karen said. "Larry likes the work and says Mike is a good teacher. He's learned a lot already. Amanda, you still haven't told me why you didn't date much in school. We used to think you weren't interested in guys much." 

Amanda said, "Karen, this may be kinda hard to understand. I want to save myself for the man I marry. All those guys in school wanted was to get in my pants. They weren't interested in me as a person. Mike's interested in me, not just what's under my clothes." 

*** 

While we were all in the shop, Mom was talking to Grandma. She was hesitant until Grandma finally said, "Patsy, somethin's botherin' you. Spit it out." 

"Grandma," she said, "you were almost implyin' that you had the idea that Mike and I were foolin' around when I talked to you the other day. What would give you that idea?" 

Grandma said, "Ya'll gave it away. You left the sleepin' bags stacked and didn't air the sex smell out of the tent. I may be gettin' old, but I remember what sex smells like. How long have ya'll been sleepin' together?" 

Mom hung her head and said, "We started in the early summer after school was out." 

"Why'd you wait so long to do it?" Grandma asked. 

"I wanted Mike to be an adult," Mom said. "I was concerned about gettin' caught with him before he turned eighteen." 

Grandma said, "So you've been sleepin' with your son. It's not the first time it's happened and it won't be the last. Are you still doin' it?" 

"No," Mom said. "I stopped when he went out with Amanda. I don't want to mess that up the way I've messed up everything else." 

Grandma asked, "Why do you think you've messed anything up?" 

Mom said, "I've messed up Mike's life. He still talks about how much he misses sleepin' with me. I love him so much that it's almost all I can do to keep from draggin' him back into my bed. Bill's dyin' left such a hole in my life and Mike had filled it completely." 

Grandma giggled and asked, "That ain't the only hole he was fillin' now was it? I'll bet it was good." 

Mom blushed and said, "You're right about that. It was good." 

"Patsy, hold your head up high," Grandma said. "I'm not gonna say anything about it. I didn't actually see you and Mike together in a compromisin' position. If anything happens and I'm asked that's what I'll say. As far as anyone else is concerned, I didn't see anything so I don't know anything." 

Mom asked, "Grandma, why are you doin' this? I'd think at the least you'd be upset about it, that you'd want me out of your house. Why?" 

Grandma thought for a minute. There were some family secrets she'd sworn to never reveal. For now, she'd keep her peace. She said, "Patsy, I love you like the daughter I never had. Because I love you so much I have to accept what you've done and help you carry the load. You know yourself that that's what bein' a parent is about. You love your kids and always try to help 'em over the rough spots when they need it. You're goin' through a rough spot now. I'm here when you feel like you need to talk about it." 

Mom hugged Grandma and said, "I really hate to burden you with this, with your health like it is. You don't need this kinda thing to be worryin' about. I'm tryin' to put what I did behind me and get on with my life. I will say it's one of the hardest things I've ever tried to do. It has to be over for Amanda's sake. It has to be over for Mike and me too." 

Grandma asked, "You say it's over but you still love him don't you?" 

Mom said, "I do. So help me, I do. I still love him as much as I loved Bill when he was alive." 

Grandma said, "Patsy, I know how you feel. Don't say anything about it. It'll all work out for the best. These things usually do. Now, Maggie's comin' over to help with lunch. Help us get started and then you go to the shop and see what's goin' on. While you're there you can tell 'em to come and eat." 

*** 

Amanda and Karen saw us. They came our way. Amanda leapt at me like she did last night. "What took you so long?" she asked, while I held her. "I'm gonna have to talk to that man." 

"No, Sugar," I said. "You leave my electrician alone. Don't bother him." 

"I like that," Amanda said. 

"Like what?" I asked. 

"You callin' me Sugar, 'cause I'm so sweet," she said. 

"You've got that right," I said. "You're my Sugar 'cause you're the sweetest thing I know." 

Mom walked into the shop just in time to see and hear us. "OK, you two. I thought this was a work day," she said. 

"We're workin'," I said, laughing. "Don't you see me holdin' this girl off the ground? She's workin' on hangin' on to me and I'm workin' on holdin' her up." 

"That's about what I thought," Mom said dryly. 

I let Amanda down. She ran to Mom, hugging her and saying, "Mrs. Davidson, your son has to be the greatest man in the world. I'm so happy he's mine." 

Mom said, "Mike, we'll have lunch ready by the time you get unloaded. Grandma's feelin' some better today." 

"Thanks, Mom," I said. "We'll get on it." 

Amanda asked, "Is there anything I can do to help?" 

"No, Baby," Mom said. "Maggie came over. We've got it taken care of." 

I backed the truck into the barn. Larry and I quickly unloaded, stacking everything against the interior wall of the office room. I told Charles that lunch was about ready. He went to the house with us. 

It was a good thing we had a table for eight. It was full. 

After lunch I told Charles, "Let's take a ride. I want to show you something. Larry, Karen, ya'll might want to come too." 

Amanda said, "You're not goin' anywhere without me." She knew where I was going. 

We all got in the truck. Amanda was in the middle of the front seat between Charles and me. I drove down to the lake. 

After I parked and everybody got out, Charles said, "Mike, this is beautiful. I can understand why you don't want anybody here." 

Larry and Karen were amazed. Larry asked, "This is yours?" 

"Yeah, it's mine now," I said. "Grandma and I signed the papers this past week. I'm showin' ya'll this because I want to make it available to you. All I ask is let me know when you want to come out here. Please, respect the land and don't leave a mess behind. My great granddad built this lake over sixty years ago. It's always looked like this and I want to keep it this way." 

I continued, "At first I was gonna restrict this to just the family. After thinkin' about it I decided to make it available to employees and their families. I have a very small family, an aunt and uncle in Texas City with their three girls and an uncle workin' overseas." 

Larry asked about the fishing. I told him there were bluegill, bass and catfish. He liked to fish as much as I did. 

Charles asked, "You were campin' here over Labor Day weren't you? Other that the ashes in the fire pit it looks nobody's been here in a while." 

Amanda said, "Daddy, this is where we came last night. I love this place." 

While we were at the lake I was telling Charles and Larry about my plans to build a pier and get a small johnboat to use. I mentioned the deep hole and showed them about where it was. Larry mentioned getting a depth finder and mapping the lake bottom to find the good places to fish. I also mentioned that I was thinking about building a small cabin later. Charles mentioned how pretty the area would be in the late fall when the hardwood leaves turned. 

About mid afternoon I said, "We'd better get back. I need to get Larry and Karen home. We've got school and work tomorrow. Amanda's got school too." 

On the way back I told Charles I planned to be back next Saturday to do the framing in the office area. I wanted to stop early enough to take Amanda out that night. Larry said he would drive out himself that morning. Karen wanted to visit with Amanda. 

After we got back to the house, we went inside. Mom, Grandma, and Maggie were all in the living room talking. I told them that we needed to get Larry and Karen home. Mom wanted to stay with Grandma. She would wait until I could go and come back to get her. 

When we went to get into the truck Amanda got in the front seat, saying, "This seat's mine." 

Larry and Karen got in the back. As I drove back to town Amanda and Karen talked while Larry and I listened. Amanda and I was the main subject of discussion. Karen still found it hard to believe that Amanda was actually interested in someone. Amanda finally said, "Karen, I finally found the perfect man. Mike is still kinda shy and won't do anything unless I want him to. I told you earlier that all the others I'd dated were a bunch of jerks. They were pushin' me to do things I didn't wanna do." 

Karen said, "Yeah, Larry's a little bit the same. I'm the one that pushed him all the way. I'm now havin' a baby because of it. We might shoulda waited, but I didn't want to. We're gonna work it out, though. I'm stayin' out of school this year. After the baby's born I'll go back and finish." 

Larry broke into their conversation to say, "I was wonderin' about Mike. He never went out and was always workin'. I didn't think he'd ever look at a girl. Amanda, you musta done somethin' to him." 

I said, "Larry, Mom and I'd been talkin' about it for a long time. Your gettin' married got me to really thinkin'. That was the same weekend I met Amanda. Nothin's been the same since." 

Amanda and I dropped Larry and Karen off at his house. Driving away I asked, "Amanda, do you want to get somethin' to eat before we go back?" 

"Why not," she said. "I want some more time alone with you." 

I drove to the Shamrock and we went in. We ordered and were sitting and talking when Darla came by. She stopped and said, "I don't believe it. You're out with a girl! When did this happen?" 

I said, "Amanda, meet Darla Matthews. She works with my mom. Darla, this is Amanda Reynolds. We met over Labor Day." 

Darla said, "Damn! I was just about to fix you up and you beat me to it. Tell Patsy she's got some 'splainin' to do tomorrow." 

Darla left about the time our orders arrived. Amanda was looking at me with a question in her eyes. 

"OK, Amanda," I said. "Let's hear it." 

"What was she doin' fixin' you up? You're mine. Not anybody else's. You belong to ME!" she said. "Do you understand that?" she asked, with a giggle. 

"Amanda, that's just Darla. She's kiddin'," I said. "Mom and I were in here a few weeks ago. Darla was here too. She saw us and said she needed to find me a girlfriend. Mom told her to stay out of it. I'm gonna have to warn her to be ready for Darla tomorrow." 

"Well, you just remember who you belong to," Amanda said with a smile. 

"Sugar, I'm completely happy just where I am," I said. "You're all I want and need." 

"You'd better be," she said. 

We finished our meal and were going back to the farm. Amanda scooted even closer to me in the seat. She draped my right arm across her shoulders, pulling my right hand down onto her breast. "That's what I've been wantin' all day," she said, holding my hand in place. 

"Amanda, Sugar, can I ask you a question?" I asked. 

"Sure, Honey," she said. "What'd you wanna know?" 

"If you don't mind, would you tell me how big your breasts are?" I asked. 

"I'm a 34 C," she said. "Why?" 

"I was just curious," I said. "I knew it felt like a good handful when you let me touch it last night and right now." 

"Do you wanna see 'em?" Amanda asked. 

"Sure," I said, "but not while I'm drivin'. That might make me run off the road," I said with a laugh. 

Amanda pulled her tee shirt up so her bra was showing. She slid my hand into her right bra cup. Her breast was so soft and warm. I slid my hand deeper into the cup until I was touching her nipple. When I touched it Amanda moaned softly. "Oh Mike," she said softly. "That feels so good." 

I was barely able to keep my eyes on the road. Amanda's breast was proving to be a major distraction. 

I pulled my hand from her bra cup, saying, "Amanda, I'd better find some place to stop this truck. I can't do this and drive too." 

Amanda said, "You need to find someplace quick." 

We were coming up on a tee intersection. There was an open area beside the road there. It was already getting well into twilight. I pulled off the road into the open area behind a large tree. 

Amanda was pulling me into the passenger side of the seat. She straddled my legs and pulled her tee shirt off. She wrapped my hands around her breasts, saying, "Feel my tits, Mike. I want it. I want it NOW!" 

I was gently squeezing her breasts through her bra cups as she leaned forward kissing me. Amanda reached behind her back and released the clasp on her bra while continuing the kiss. When her bra was loose I slid my hands under the cups. Her breasts were perfect hands full. Her nipples were pressed into my palms. 

Amanda slid the bra off her shoulders laying it in the seat beside us. I moved my hands to the sides of her breasts so I could see them. Amanda's breasts were beautiful. Her areolae were about halfway between the sizes of a quarter and a half dollar. Her nipples were almost the size of the last joint of my little finger. The color was a light reddish brown. Her left breast had a small mole just to the right of the areola. Her right one was perfect. 

I was as entranced as I had been when I saw Mom's breasts up close the first time. Amanda's were the same perfection in a slightly larger size. I had to kiss these wonders. I had to feel them. I had to lick and suck on them. I had to bury my face in them. I had to do all these things at the same time. Amanda was moaning softly and holding my head to her breast as she humped her hips on my legs. 

It felt like my erection was about to tear through my jeans. 

I felt myself starting to loose control. Finally forcing myself to stop, I said, "Amanda. Amanda! We're about to go too far, If we don't stop you're gonna end up like Karen. Sugar, please help me here." 

Amanda took a long shuddering breath as she leaned back against the dash of the truck. Her nipples were fully erect and her areolae were crinkling from arousal. 

"Just one more kiss, Mike, Honey," she moaned. "Just one more, pleeeaaassssse." 

I kissed her once more and then said, "Sugar, you'd better get dressed." 

"I don't want to, Honey," she said. "I don't know what you do to me but I want you. I want all of you." 

"Amanda," I said, "we don't want you to end up like Karen. I want you too but we need to back off some. Sugar, I was so close to rippin' your clothes off and doin' somethin' we don't need to right now." 

I didn't know how much more I could stand. Mom was right. Amanda was a firecracker when she got started. 

Amanda had a slight pout on her face as she put her bra back on. "Mike don't like my tits," she said, 

I waited until she had her tee shirt on before I said, "Amanda, I love you and your tits. I just don't know if we should be doin' this yet. You told me that you didn't like the guys you'd dated because they were always tryin' to feel of you. What's so different now?" 




Amanda Pt. 03



"Mike, Honey," Amanda said, "I don't know how to explain it. When you touched my hands while we were cleanin' those fish it was like an electric spark. I wanted to throw you down and kiss you then. When I asked you to kiss me the first time there was the same spark. Every time I'm with you it's the same. It's almost like you're what's been missin' my whole life. Mike, I can't stand bein' away from you. I love you more every day." 

"Amanda, I feel the same way about you. I've felt that same spark. Just holdin' your hand does it for me. I'm really beginnin' to think I'm fallin' in love with you. I've been thinkin' about what it'd be like to marry you and live the rest of my life with you. What concerns me, though, is bein' able to support you like I'd want to, Sugar." 

When I said 'marry' Amanda was all over me. She grabbed me in a tight hug. I could feel her heart racing in her chest. 

"Mike, did you really say that?" she asked. 

"Say what?" I returned the question. 

Amanda lightly slapped my shoulder, saying, "That you wanted to marry me. That's what you said, isn't it?" she asked. 

"I said I was thinkin' about it," I told her. "You think it's a bad idea?" I asked. 

"Mike!" she screamed. "You better do more than thinkin'! I think it's a great idea. I want you more than I've ever wanted anything in my life." 

"Amanda, we'd better get you home. We've both got school tomorrow," I said. "I don't want to, but we'd better." 

Getting off me, Amanda said, "Yeah, I guess your right, much as I hate to." 

We were only a few miles from Grandma's. Charles and Maggie had gone home when we got there. Mom was ready so we went to Amanda's house to drop her off on our way home. She invited us in for a minute when we got there. 

Charles and Maggie welcomed us into their home. After Mom and I were seated, Amanda sat in my lap. Maggie asked, "Amanda, what are you doin'?" 

"I'm sittin' with the guy I'm gonna marry," she said. 

Mom and Maggie's mouths fell open. Charles looked at me as I looked at him. 

"Marry?" Maggie asked. "You barely know him!" 

Mom looked at me wide eyed. "Mike, what's goin' on here?" she asked. 

Amanda looked at Mom and her parents and said, "We were talkin' comin' home after we ate. Mike said he was thinkin' about what it would be like to marry me and spend his life with me. I think it's a great idea and I'll say yes when he asks me." 

Mom said, "Mike, are you sure about this? Ya'll have known each other just a couple of weeks." 

"Mom, I've been thinkin' for a few years about what I'd want for a wife and life mate," I said. "I told you that I've always compared the girls I knew to you. Every one of them has always fallen short of your standard except this one. I believe Amanda is every bit your equal. I know we haven't known each other very long, but I feel every bit as comfortable with her as I do with you. I feel like she's the missin' part of my life." 

Amanda broke in to say, "Mom, Dad, I feel the same way about Mike. Dad, he's every bit your equal. He don't realize it, but he's so far ahead of every other guy I've known. He's already got things most of them'll never have. He's gonna have me, too. All he has to do is ask." 

Charles asked with a big grin, 'Amanda, do I need to get my shotgun after this guy? Has he done anything I need to be concerned with?" 

"NO Dad!" she exclaimed. "Don't you dare! Mike hasn't done anything. I even had to ask him to kiss me the first time. I love this guy!" 

Charles looked at me saying, "Mike, you have my permission to ask Amanda to marry you. With what I've seen and learned about you, I'd be proud to have you for a son." 

Maggie asked, "Charles, what do you know that I don't?" 

"Maggie," Charles said. "When I was in town the other day I ran into Raymond Fields and some other builders at the lumberyard. I asked about Mike. Those guys all bragged on him. Raymond said he wished he had a son like this young man. He told me that Mike is the most dedicated guy he's ever seen. Mike started workin' for him at fifteen to help his mother with his pay. He averages workin forty hours a week durin' school and fifty or more in the summers. He said Mike has a great future ahead of him." 

Maggie looked at me saying, "Mike, I had no idea. I was thinkin' that you were just gonna be a tradesman, goin' from job to job." 

Charles said to Maggie, "Maggie, this young man is not a tradesman. He's a craftsman. He's already so well known he's gonna be turnin' work down. Builders are gonna pay a premium to get his work." 

Mom said to Maggie, "Maggie, I've been wonderin' when this was gonna happen. It's a little sooner'n I expected. I guess we need to think about plannin' a weddin'." 

After looking at my watch, I said, "Mom, I hate to interrupt all this high level plannin', but you've got work tomorrow and I've got school. Charles, Maggie, Sugar, we'd better go." 

"Sugar?" Maggie asked. "Who's 'Sugar'?" 

Amanda said, "That's me, Mamma. Mike says I'm his Sugar 'cause I'm so sweet." 

Maggie just shook her head. 

Charles, Maggie, and Amanda came out to the truck with Mom and I. The parents stayed on the passenger side while Amanda came to the driver's side with me. Mom honked the horn to interrupt Amanda's kiss. "See you, Honey," she said. 

"Good night, Sugar," I said, as I got in the truck. 

On our way home I told Mom, "Amanda and I ran into Darla at the Shamrock. She wants to see you tomorrow. She said you had some explainin' to do." 

"That's all I need," Mom said. "Now. What's goin' on between you and Amanda? Aren't ya'll movin' kinda fast?" 

"Mom, maybe we are," I said. "You're the one that said I'd know if it was love. I feel like it is. Amanda's always in my thoughts and she says she's the same way. I feel like both of us were meant to be together. I feel kinda bad about it though. Sometimes I don't know which way to turn. I still love you too. You won't let us do anything anymore and I really miss it. I miss sleepin' beside you and wakin' up with you in my arms." 

Continuing, I said, "Mom, what do I do? I love both of you. I want both of you. I know it ain't supposed to be this way, but it is. I don't know what to do. I want Amanda and I want you. It's too bad I can't have you both. If I settle on Amanda and then do somethin' with you I'm cheatin' on her. If I settle on you and do somethin' with her it's the same thing on you. I need to get my head straight but I can't. I love both of you too much. What do I do? My heart tells me it wants both of you. I'm so confused." 

"Ya'll haven't done anything have you?" she asked. 

"No, Mom. We really haven't. I'd say we're both thinkin' about it, though," I said. "I told Amanda tonight that I didn't want us to end up like Larry and Karen, you know, havin' to get married. We're still gettin' to really know each other." 

Mom sat quietly, thinking. She finally said, "I really shouldn't be surprised. Bill and I only knew each other about three months before we got married. You and Amanda have each known a lot about the other from Grandma. You both seem to fit together and like each other." 

"Mom, the last thing in the world I wanna do is hurt either Amanda or you. I love both of you. I just hope I can support her the way I want to. Sometimes I wish we were a pioneers a couple of hundred years ago so we could get away with the three of us livin' and lovin' together." 

She said, "Mike, I think understand your feelin's and your confusion. I can't tell you what to do. You're gonna have to make a choice. That's part of what bein' an adult is all about. Life's full of hard choices. I told you when you and Amanda met that I'd step back out of the way. I'll tell you this. It's one of the hardest decisions I've ever made. I still love you and always will. I still want you and always will. I still wanta drag you into my bed every night. I'm fightin' with myself to let you go because I think your future lies with Amanda." 

Things were quiet for a few minutes. Mom was right. I was going to have to make a decision. I had no idea of the anguish I was going to go through in the coming week as I thought about things. 

Mom asked me, "Mike, have you really looked at your finances? At how much you're saving now? At what your expenses actually are?" 

I had to think. The biggest expense that I had to pay was buying my gasoline each week. I gave Mom half my pay each week to help with the household expenses and groceries. The rest either went into savings or my checking account. 

"I'm doin' OK. Other than my gas and a little spendin' money each week it all goes in either savin's or the checkin' account. What about the money I give you each week, Mom?" I asked. "I wasn't countin' that." 

She said, "Mike, I haven't told you this, but I still have way over three quarters of what you've given me. It's in a savings account at the bank." 

"But Mom," I said. "You're supposed to be usin' that to help pay the bills and buy groceries with. That's why I give it to you each week." 

"Mike, we haven't needed it," she said. "Remember, the house is paid off and I just paid my car off. We just have the utilities and grocery bill. We're not hurtin' money wise. I've been savin' that money for you. Also, we still won't have any bills when we move. Half what we get out of the house'll be yours. Use it to help get your business started. Your dad woulda wanted that and I do too." 

While we were having our discussion, Amanda and her parents were also talking. 

Maggie and Charles both wanted to know how serious Amanda and I were. Amanda told them, "Mom, Dad, I think we're gettin' pretty serious. Mike said tonight he'd been thinkin' about what it would be like to be married. I have too. Like I said earlier, I'll say yes when he asks." 

Charles asked, "Amanda, all I want you to do is to be sure. I don't want you rushin' into anything. Maggie and I'll support you in whatever you do. We'll continue to pay for your college. Just be sure in your heart that you're makin' the right decision." 

Amanda said, "Daddy, that's what I'm thinkin' about. Right now it feels right to me. I already know a lot about him because his grandmother tells us about him when Mamma and I visit her. Mike and I still have a lot of talkin' to do about things. That's what we're doin' now. We've both still got a lot of talkin' and thinkin' to do." 

Maggie said, "Amanda, all of us have some thinkin' to do. I'd hoped that ya'd wait a while. Please, keep us informed about your plans. I wanted you to have a really nice wedding to remember and I know your dad wants to give you away." 

"I'll be sure to let ya'll know what we're plannin'," Amanda said. "Mamma, why don't you and I try to have dinner with Mike's mom one night this week? I want to talk to both of you together." 

Looking at Charles, Maggie asked, "Would that be OK with you? Patsy and I can get to know each other better and have a chance to visit." 

"Fine with me," Charles said. "I'm at the fire station tomorrow and Thursday." 

Maggie said, "Thursday's better. I'll call Patsy tomorrow and set it up." 

*** 

This week was much the same as the week before with school, work, and home each day. Raymond came by the job Monday and said his framing and sheetrock crews would have some time next week to get some of the work done. After talking with him, we agreed to meet after school on Thursday and look at what I needed. I would take Larry with me and pay his time for the day since he would loose the time on the job. We also discussed my getting the shop in operation after the first of the year. I would build all the casework there rather than on site. He also agreed to let other builder's contact me about cabinetwork. 

Thursday, Larry and I met Raymond at the lumberyard. He followed us to the barn. He was impressed with the space. We worked together to lay out all the walls, windows, and doors. After discussing several options we decided on the best and estimated the materials. Raymond's estimate, including labor, was much better than I expected. I told him to do the work, leaving one side of each wall and the ceiling open until all the wiring rough in was finished. 

We finished our business by mid afternoon. After checking on Grandma, Larry and I were on our way home. We got there about thirty minutes before Mom was due to get home. Larry walked across the street and I went in the house to clean up and start dinner. 

I had been thinking all week about the conversation Mom and I had coming home last Sunday night. I still wanted the both of them. I loved Mom and would do anything in the world for her. I still felt that I had been giving her something she lost when Dad died. I also loved Amanda and really wanted her. Mom was right about this being a hard decision to make. Both of them were so much alike and both of them meant so much to me. I was in an impossible situation trying to make an impossible decision. 

I was not concerned about their physical appearance. That wasn't an issue. They were both equally beautiful to me. I would be equally satisfied with either. I still wanted them both. The emotional connection to both of them was the driving force. Was I going to have to flip a coin and let chance decide the issue? I was almost to that point. 

Mom came in while I was looking over the choices for dinner. "What're you doin' here?" she asked. 

"Raymond wanted to look at the new shop today," I said. "I forgot to tell you." 

"Company's comin'," she said. "Maggie and Amanda'll be here in about twenty minutes. They wanted to talk." 

"Do I need to leave?" I asked. 

"I'm not sure yet," she said. "I stopped and got some chicken quarters for dinner." 

"I can get the grill goin' and be ready to cook in about thirty minutes," I told her. "That'll be better than baked and quicker too." 

Mom thought a minute, saying, "Go ahead. We'll find out what they want to talk about when they get here." 

I was on the back porch with the grill when they arrived. Amanda had spotted my truck and made a beeline for where I was. 

I felt two arms wrap around me from behind. I turned and was immediately grabbed again and kissed soundly. 

"Hello, Sugar," I said. "What're you doin' here?" 

"Couldn't stand bein' away from you, Honey," she said. "Actually, I wanted to talk to your mom again." 

"Do I need to leave? Is it that kinda talk?" I asked. 

"NO! You ain't leavin'!" she said. "I'm glad you're here 'cause I wanted to talk about us. Why aren't you workin' today?" she asked. 

"Raymond wanted to see the new shop," I said. "He's gonna have his framin' and sheetrock crews go out next week and build the walls and do the ceilin' framin'. They have some slack comin' up and he wanted to keep 'em busy." 

Mom and Maggie had come out just before I said that. 

Mom asked, "Mike, does this mean you'll get it done faster?" 

"Sure does," I said. "He's gonna leave one side of the walls open so Charles can get the wirin' done. He's gonna have the sheetrock crew come back and finish later. We'll most likely have the inside done before the first of November. We'll be able to move into the shop before Thanksgiving." 

Amanda was jumping up and down, squealing, when I said that. 

Mom asked, "What about the cost, Mike?" 

I said, "Mom, he figured it close. It'll only take about half what I've got in savings now. I've still got money to buy insulation, doors, and windows." 

Maggie asked, "Mike, it's none of my business, but how much are you spendin'?" 

I told her what I estimated the cost was going to be to complete the shop. I went on to say that I was paying for it without borrowing any money. I could tell she was concerned about me spending so much. Mom could tell also. 

She said, "Maggie, you need to know something. Mike has given me half his pay each week as long as he's been workin'. He said I was to use the money to help pay the bills here at home and to buy groceries. I've saved well over half of it for him. He's just using his savings, not that. I was gonna give the money to him when he found a girl he was serious about. He's financially secure right now. He has no debt." 

Maggie said, "Mike, I need to apologize to you." 

"No, Ma'am," I said. "You don't owe me an apology. You're concerned about Amanda's future. I completely understand how you feel. I want you to know that Amanda's welfare is my primary concern now and always will be." 

Amanda threw herself at me. She turned her head and looked at her mother, saying, "Mamma, you don't have to worry about this man." 

By this time the fire was ready. I started cooking the chicken while Mom and Maggie did the other preparations in the kitchen. Amanda refused to leave my side. 

During dinner I asked the ladies if I needed to leave during their talk. Amanda said, "No, Honey. You need to stay. I wanted to talk to your mom and mine about you." 

After dinner we cleaned up and sat in the living room. Mom and Maggie were sitting in the chairs. Amanda sat in my lap. Mom asked, "Amanda, what did you want to talk about?" 

Amanda said, "Mrs. Davidson, I hope you're not upset with us. I know it seems like we're movin' awfully fast." 

Mom said, "Amanda, dear, I'm not surprised. I think it's a little soon, but I understand how you feel. Bill and I only knew each other about three months before we married." 

Maggie commented, "Yeah, Charles and I married quick also. We were together about four months." 

Amanda said, "This is embarrassin'. It's gonna seem like I'm pryin' in your affairs." 

I interrupted her, asking, "Amanda, what are you doin'?" 

"Mike," she said, "this is somethin' I need to know." 

Looking at Mom and Maggie, she asked, "Did ya'll wait 'till you were married?" 

Mom and Maggie looked at each other and Amanda and me. Maggie asked, "What do you mean, Amanda?" 

Amanda asked, "Oh heck. Did ya'll have sex before you married?" 

Mom stared at me before asking, "Mike, what have you not told me?" 

I was blushing now. Maggie was staring at both of us. She asked, "Amanda, what have ya'll done? Have ya'll done something I need to know about?" 

Amanda told them, "I'll answer your questions when you answer mine. Now tell me." 

Maggie and Mom looked at each other again. Neither seemed to want to speak first. Finally, Mom said, "OK. Amanda, I'll tell you. Bill and I didn't wait. We did it the first time about a month before we married." 

Maggie was blushing almost as much as I was when she said, "Amanda, Charles and I did it the week before we married. Now, tell me. What have you two done?" 

Amanda was blushing now. She looked at me as I looked at her. I said, "We'd better tell 'em and get it over with." 

Mom asked, "Tell us what?" 

I was still blushing when I said, "Mom, Mrs. Reynolds, Amanda's let me touch her breasts." 

Amanda shyly said, "Yeah, I did. I had to make him do it." 

Maggie asked, "Is that all?" 

Amanda blushed again before saying, "No. Last weekend I showed 'em to him and let him touch 'em bare. That's all we've done though. I want to do more, but Mike keeps slowin' things down." 

Maggie asked her, "Amanda, are you sure you wanta go that far? Have you thought this out? Are you really sure? Mike, what about you? Same questions. 

Amanda said, "Mamma, I've been thinkin' about this ever since meetin' Mike. I love him and wanta marry him. I wanta give him the greatest gift I can, me. You don't understand. I think I fell for him the first time he touched my hand." 

Things were coming to a head. I had to make a decision and I had to make it now. I still wanted Mom but was going to have to let her go. I just hoped she wouldn't be upset with me. 

"Mrs. Reynolds," I said, "I'm the same way about Amanda. It was like a spark jumped between us. I've been thinkin' of how I can support her the way I'd like, and how much I love her. Amanda's the reason I'm doin' what I am. When we're apart I feel like a piece of me's missin'. The more I'm around her the more I'm sure she's the one I wanta marry and spend my life with." 




Amanda Pt. 03



Mom stared at both of us for a minute. She finally said. "This is sooner than I was expectin'. Both of you are adults and able to make adult decisions. I'm just glad you wanted to talk to Maggie and me before doin' something you'd regret." Looking at Maggie, she said, "I told Mike that I wasn't gonna tell him what to do, that it was his decision. It still is. I only ask that you be sure before you do, Mike." 

Maggie said, "I agree fully with what Patsy just said. Just be sure in your hearts and minds. It's something you can never undo." 

Amanda asked, "Mamma, Mrs. Davidson, IF we were to have sex what can you tell us about doin' it the first time?" 

Mom said, "Amanda, I don't recommend doin' it in the back seat of a car the first time. That's OK after you have some experience, but not for the first time. My first time was there and I can tell you, it was uncomfortable." 

Maggie said, "I agree with Patsy. That's not a good idea." 

Mom said, "Amanda, Mike, if you're gonna do it, the best way the first few times is to let Amanda be on top. She should be in control. That way she can control how fast and deep the penetration is. Since she's a virgin, she'll have to adjust to you. Her bein' on top will let her control everything." 

Amanda looked at me. I had a good idea what she was thinking. I said "Amanda, I told you that you'd be in charge in our personal lives. I meant it then and I still mean it. You have to convince me that it's what you really want. I'm not gonna do something you'll have any regrets about. I love you and respect you too much to ever do anything you don't want." 

Amanda looked at Maggie and Mom before saying, "That's why I love Mike. I can trust him to always have my interests first." 

I looked at Maggie and Mom before looking into Amanda's beautiful brown eyes. I said, "Amanda, do you think we should make it official?" 

She asked, "What do you mean, Honey?" 

I asked her, "Amanda Jean Reynolds, in front of our mothers as witnesses, will you marry me?" 

Amanda turned in my lap and screamed, "YES, William Michael Davidson! I'd be proud to marry you," before giving me a kiss that took my breath away. 

When we finally broke the kiss, we looked at Mom and Maggie. Both of them had tears in their eyes. 

I said to Amanda, "Sugar, we need to go shoppin'. I need to buy you an engagement ring. What do you want?" 

Amanda asked, "Can we go Saturday mornin'? I don't know what I want yet." 

I asked, "Do you want white or yellow gold? How big a diamond? Think about what you want and we'll start lookin'." 

I continued, "Now, Sugar, think about where and when you wanta get married." 

Amanda asked, "Mike, Honey, we're gonna live on the farm aren't we? Why not get married at the lake there? That would be really beautiful in the spring." 

I said, "Whatever you want. We'll make it happen." 

Amanda turned and asked, "Mamma, Mrs. Davidson, can we do that? I think that's what I want." 

Mom looked at Maggie and said, "I guess we've got a wedding to plan." 

Maggie looked at Mom as she said, "Yes, I guess we do. Amanda, what's your dad gonna say about this?" 

Amanda looked at Maggie and sheepishly asked, "Mamma, do you hafta tell him everything? Can't you just tell him that Mike asked me to marry him?" 

Maggie asked her, "Amanda, do you really want to do that? Don't you think your dad needs to know everything?" 

Amanda looked at me and asked, "Mike, Honey, will you be with me when I talk to Daddy?" 

"Amanda, Sugar, I'll do anything you ask me to do," I said. "If you want me there, I'll do it. I may not survive, but I'll do it for you. You know you have to be honest with him and not try to hide anything. I'll be there Saturday mornin' early. We can talk to him then." 

The visit ended shortly after when Maggie and Amanda left for their home. As I expected, Mom wanted to talk to me. 

"Mike, I see you finally made a decision," she said. 

"Mom, I want you to know that it's the hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life," I said. "I still love you both and still want you both. I've been in turmoil all week because of this. I'm still an emotional wreck. It was you continuing to say that I needed to be thinkin' about the future and the kiddin' I'd get about not datin' that made my mind up. You and Amanda are both equal to me. I could be equally happy with either of you." 

Continuing, I said, "I hope you're not disappointed with me. I know this has to hurt. I'm hurtin' because of it and am gonna have a hard time puttin' it behind me." 

She said, "Baby, you're a man now. You were faced with a very difficult decision to make, thought it through, and I think you made it the right way. Don't have any regrets and don't worry about it now. I'll always support you. You're right about the hurt. I hurt like that when your dad died. I can tell you that it does get better with time. You'll always have the memories and wonder what if. You need to concentrate on Amanda now. You've made a lifetime commitment to her and don't need to let the past come between you." 

"Mom, I guess you're right," I said. "I just have to figure out how to let you go." 

"You can do it," she said. "You're gonna have to do it again when Grandma passes. It's all a part of life and part of bein' an adult. Now, it's gettin' late and you have to go to school tomorrow." 

She hugged me and kissed my cheek as we went to our separate bedrooms. 

*** 

Friday afternoon Charles was in his shop gathering materials he would need in my shop. When Amanda got home from school, Maggie asked, "Amanda, have you talked to your dad yet? If you don't, I'm gonna do it tonight." 

Amanda said, "No, Mamma, I haven't talked to him yet. I was either gonna do it tonight or tomorrow when Mike's here. I probably ought to do it now." 

Maggie said, "I think you should. He needs to know." 

Amanda walked out to Charles's shop. When she walked in, she said, "Daddy, I need to talk to you." 

"OK, Baby," he said. "What do you want to talk about?" 

"Daddy, Mike asked me to marry him when Mamma and I were at his house Thursday night," she said. "Mamma and Mrs. Davidson were there when he did. I told him yes, that I'd marry him. He wants to take me shoppin' for a ring tomorrow morning." 

Charles hugged her and asked, "Baby, are you really sure in your heart and mind he's the one? Your mother and I have tried to teach you that marriage is a really big step. You're makin' a lifetime commitment to him." 

Amanda said, "Daddy, I've been thinkin' about this for the past couple of years. Mike's grandmother has told me so much about him I feel like I know him already. When I'm with him my heart sings. When we're apart about all I can do is think about him. I love him, Dad. He feels the same way about me." 

Charles said, "Amanda, I have some questions. First, have ya'll done something you shouldn't? Second, has he been pushin' you to do something you might regret?" 

Amanda asked, "Dad, are you hintin' around about sex?" 

He said, "Yes, Baby, I am. You know that once you do it you can never take it back." 

Amanda blushed, and said, "We've fooled around some. I'm the one that's pushin' it. Mike made me a promise that he wouldn't try to do anything I didn't want to do. He's held to that promise. I had to ask him to kiss me the first time. I was the one that put his hand on my breast. He wouldn't do it until I convinced him that I truly wanted it. I want to give myself to him completely but he won't do it yet. He says he wants us to be comfortable with each other before we go that far." 

Charles said, "Amanda, your mother and I have talked about this. We both know that we can't stop you. All we can do is try to guide you in making a life changing decision like that. I will say that we really like Mike. He's a dependable, hard workin' young man that I'd be proud to have as a son. Everyone I talk to that knows him says the same. He's so much better than some of those boys that've come out here to take you out." 

"Dad, I need to be completely honest with you," Amanda said. "Last Sunday night when Mike and I were comin' back from town I had him stop. I took my shirt and bra off and let Mike see and feel me. I wanted to go farther but he stopped us. I could tell he was really strugglin' to control himself. Dad, I've never seen a man have that kind of self control before. He's that way in everything he does. That's one of the many reasons I love him like I do." 

"Amanda, just be sure in your heart that he's the right one," Charles said. "Don't do anything you have any doubts about. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to me or your mother." 

*** 

Saturday, Mom and I were on our way to the farm at 7:00. When we arrived, Mom went in the house with Grandma and I went to the shop. Charles and Amanda were there, looking at all the chalk lines on the floor. "Good morning," I said. 

Amanda ran to my side saying, "Good mornin' Honey," as she hugged and kissed me. 

Charles said, "Mike, Amanda and I had a talk last night. I want to talk to you." 

"Yessir, I figured you would," I said hesitantly. "How much trouble am I in?" 

"Son, you're not in trouble," he said. "I told you a week ago that you had my permission. Now, why would you be in trouble?" 

"Well, Sir, I figured I was in trouble for Amanda and me foolin' around some," I said. 

"Mike, Maggie and I talked about this a few years ago before Amanda ever dated the first boy," he said. "We decided that young people are gonna do what they do, that we can't stop it. We know that the only thing we can do is provide guidance for Amanda. Maggie and I just want you to take care of her. You do that and we're square." 

Charles and I discussed the work Raymond's crew would do next week. I told him I wanted to start working in the shop before the first of the year. We were about finished with our talk when he asked about telephones. I had not even considered that. I thought about it and decided that I would need two-line service with two phones in the office and one in the shop. 

Amanda waited patiently for a while. She finally said, "Daddy, Mike needs to take me shoppin'. We need to go." 

Charles asked, "What's the big hurry, Baby? What do you need you don't already have?" He knew what she wanted. 

"Dad, Mike said I need a ring," she said. "I'm ready to get it now! Please, let him go. You can ask all those questions later." 

Charles looked at me, asking, "Mike, are you really sure you want this girl?" 

Looking at him, I said, "Mr. Reynolds, if I didn't want her I wouldn't have asked her to marry me. I'm sure I want her. I just hope she wants me." 

Amanda leapt into my arms, saying, "Mike, Honey, yes I want you. I want you more than I've ever wanted anything," before she kissed me. 

After taking our leave, Amanda and I drove to town. There were three jewelry stores there that would give us a good selection. I asked, "Amanda, have you decided what kind of ring you want? What about wedding rings too?" 

"Mike, I don't really know yet," she said. "I sorta like white gold. Honey, how big a diamond can I have?" she asked. 

"Well, Sugar, let's wait and see what they have," I told her. "It's your choice. I'm just payin' for it." 

Amanda sat quietly for a few minutes before asking, "Honey, are we gonna go out tonight?" 

"Well, Sugar, I guess we can. Where do you wanta go?" I asked. 

"Mike, why don't we do what we did the first time?" she asked. 

"If that's what you want," I said. 

I found a parking spot and we started looking at rings. The first store had a nice selection, but the jeweler acted like he didn't think we were serious because of our ages. The second store's selection wasn't quite as good. At the third store we were welcomed immediately. The jeweler asked if he could be of help. I said, "Yessir, you can. I need to buy an engagement ring for this lovely young lady." 

The jeweler looked at Amanda with a smile, saying, "Come over to this counter, my dear. We have a nice selection of rings here." 

Amanda and I followed him to the counter. His selection was the best yet. Amanda started looking at the smaller stones first. My eye was caught by a spectacular ring with a large square cut center stone and three smaller stones on each side in a white gold setting. I nudged Amanda, saying, "Amanda, look at this one." 

The jeweler took it out of the case, showing it to her. He said, "Your young man has a good eye. The center stone is a half-carat square cut and the side stones are 1/10-carat brilliant cut. It's in a 14 karat white gold setting." 

Amanda was entranced. She tried it on and found it fit perfectly. She looked at me, saying, "Mike, Honey, I really like this one but can you afford it? You don't need to get something like this. This is too much." 

I was watching her as she looked at the ring. I knew she liked it, as did I. I asked the jeweler what his cash price was. He told me. Amanda was looking faint. I asked Amanda, "Do you like it, Darling? Would you be happy with this one?" 

Amanda said, "Honey, this is too much." 

"Not when it's for the woman I love and am gonna spend my life with," I told her. 

Looking at the jeweler, I said, "We'll take it." 

Getting my checkbook, I started writing a check to cover the cost. The jeweler saw my imprinted check and asked, "Are you the Mike Davidson that works for Raymond Fields?" 

"Yessir, I am," I told him. 

"Raymond built my house last year. He was bragging about your cabinets then. My wife and I both love the work you did, especially the way the cabinet doors were grain matched. You do excellent work, young man," he said. "We have many friends that like your work also." 

"Thank you for the compliment," I said. "I've always liked working with wood. I'm starting my own cabinet shop and plan to expand into a few furniture pieces after the first of the year." 

The jeweler explained the warranty on the ring. I asked about wedding bands. He then showed us a selection of matching bands that would compliment the engagement ring. Amanda said, "Mike, Honey, we don't have to get them now." 

I told her, "Amanda, we might as well get them now as later." 

The jeweler said, "Young lady, he's right. If you buy them today as a package set, I'll include your wedding band at no charge and include engraving them also." 

Amanda asked, "Can we have the engraving done later?" 

"Certainly, my dear," the jeweler said. 

"Well, OK then," she said. Amanda selected a matched pair of simple white gold bands. 

The jeweler completed ringing up the sale and I paid him. He boxed the wedding bands and was going to box the engagement ring when Amanda said, "Please, I wanta wear that one. Mike's already asked me and I said yes." 

The jeweler wished us a happy future together as we left. I looked at Amanda and asked, "Do you feel official now?" 

"Yes!" she exclaimed, kissing me. "Oh, Mike, I do love you so much." 

Amanda and I drove back to the farm. We went in the house and found Mom, Maggie, and Grandma sitting at the kitchen table. Maggie looked at us and asked, "Well?" 

When Amanda showed them the ring they all started talking at once. They all wanted to know where we found the ring. Amanda related our experiences at the stores and how much we liked the one. 

Mom asked, "Amanda, are you sure you want to be married here and not somewhere else? What if the weather's bad? That can happen, especially in the spring." 

Amanda told them, "Yes, I want it here. If the weather's bad we may have to do it in the back of the shop. I don't care about anything big. I want it to be simple and quick. I don't want a big fuss over it." 

I said, "Ladies, ya'll are pushin' things. Amanda and I need to decide what and when. We'll start tryin' to decide what we want. I don't think either of us is gonna go overboard. Give us a little time to talk things out and make some decisions." 

Grandma said, "He's right. Ya'll give 'em some breathin' room. It's their wedding. Daddy and I were married at the crossroads sittin' in a buggy. Patsy, you and Bill were married by a JP. What about you and Charles, Maggie?" 

Maggie said, "Yeah, we were too." Looking at Mom, she said, "Patsy, I guess we're guilty of tryin' to push our wants on 'em. Let's see what they come up with." 

Mom said, "You're right. We'll give 'em some time." 

I told them that Amanda and I were planning on going out that night. Maggie suggested that Amanda get ready and go with me when Mom and I left to go home. I could clean up and change before leaving for the evening and bring Amanda home after. Mom and I agreed. Maggie and Amanda left so she could get ready. 

Mom told Grandma and me, "I have a realtor coming by the house next Wednesday. If everything looks good I'll get the house listed and we'll start packing things." 

We discussed possible sleeping arrangements. Grandma told us that Junior and his family were coming in for Thanksgiving. They would be there Wednesday night, Thursday, and Friday, returning home Saturday afternoon. I commented that I might have to camp out in the shop for a few days. 

Grandma said, "Mike, when ya'll move out here I want you to take the master bedroom. You're gonna end up there anyway." 

"Grandma, are you sure about that?" I asked her. "This is still your home." 

"Mike, it's not gonna be for much longer," she said. "Ya'll know I'm gettin' weaker. As much as I want to I don't think I'll get see you and Amanda get married. I may not make it much past Christmas." 

There it was, the reality of Grandma's health. This wonderful woman that had done so much for me would soon be gone forever. How I would miss her. I knew in my heart it was coming but it was sure hard to face. 

"Grandma, do you need someone here durin' the day?" I asked. 

Mom asked, "Mike, what're you thinkin'?" 

"I'm thinkin' about Karen," I said. "I'm soon gonna have Larry workin' out here most of the time. This might be a good opportunity for her to make a little money. What do you think?" 

Mom said, "Mike, that might be a good idea. I'll talk to Connie and her when we get home tonight." 

Grandma said, "I could use a little help with some house cleanin' and in the kitchen some days. I have days that about all I can do is sit around and nap. Also, the medicines the doctor has me takin' sometimes make me kinda sleepy. I'm gettin' to where I almost don't trust myself in the kitchen." 

Mom said, "Grandma, Karen's pregnant and can't do any heavy liftin'. She can help with housekeepin' and cookin' for you. She can also be here in case you can't get to the phone. She could drive you to your doctor's appointments and can get groceries when we're not here. We'll look into home nursin' later if you need it. Maggie's also close. She can be here in just a few minutes." 

We discussed the situation for a few more minutes. Mom and I left to get Amanda and go home. 

Amanda was ready and waiting. She was wearing a light blue satin blouse and navy blue skirt, dark stockings, and sandals with one-inch heels. Her makeup was light, with just a little eye shadow and lipstick. Of course, she was wearing the ring. She was truly beautiful as always. 

Mom told Amanda to take the front seat while she got in back. We drove home. Mom and Amanda sat in the living room while I cleaned up and changed clothes. Once I was ready, Amanda and I left. 

I opened the truck door for Amanda. When she got in she raised her leg enough for me to see her stocking tops. After I got in and was driving away from home, she scooted over close to me. After I had my arm across her shoulder, she asked with a giggle, "Did I do it right?" 

"If you're talkin' about me seein' up your skirt, yeah, you did it right," I said with a laugh. 

"Good," she said. "That's what I wanted to do." 




Amanda Pt. 04



Author's Note -- This chapter starts immediately at the end of Ch. 3 and covers about a month of elapsed time. A big hat tip to Ciguardian. His off site comments and suggestions have really improved the storyline and my skills as a writer. Thank you so very much. Enjoy and please vote.

Part 4 -- A Change, Moving In, a Secret, and a Wedding

We continued to sit by the fire pit, chatting excitedly about our future together, and also refining the plans for the cabinet business, as the sun marched higher in the morning sky. Eventually, Amanda moved over to her own chair, to be more comfortable. I pulled out my cigarettes and lit one, and Amanda held out her hand, two fingers extended. I handed her the cigarette and lit another for myself, then reached for my cup of coffee, which was perched on a stone near the edge of the pit to help keep it warm. As I took a sip, I noticed that Amanda had that 'deep-in-thought' look in her eyes.

"What are you thinkin', Sugar?" I asked her.

"I'm thinkin' that it's just about warm enough for us to shuck off these clothes and have a little fun, Honey," she giggled in reply, taking a long puff from her cigarette. "How about you? You in the mood?"

"I think I could be persuaded," I laughed. The lovemaking that Amanda and I had shared, the night before, had been wonderful, especially taking into account the fact that it had been Amanda's first time. To be honest, I don't think that Mom and I had achieved that kind of 'wonderful' more than a handful of times since our first night together.

Fortunately, it was just then that we heard the sound of a vehicle engine coming down the road to the campsite. Give it another few minutes, and we'd have been a little too naked to feel right receiving visitors.

"Now, who in blazes can that be?" Amanda wondered aloud. "We told everyone in both families that this was to be our weekend alone together, and that we didn't want to be disturbed!"

"I reckon we'll find out, in a minute or so," I shrugged. "I guess we'll have to wait and find out who it is, before we decide to be polite and let them stay, or send them packing."

We waited another couple minutes, and finally spied Raymond's truck as it came out of the woods into our clearing. We sat and watched until it came to a stop a number of yards away, and Charles got out of the passenger side. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of Amanda as she pitched her half-smoked cigarette into the heart of the fire.

Charles approached us, hands up in a 'hold on, a minute' gesture.

"Mike, Amanda," he said, "I know this was supposed to be your weekend to be alone together, and I apologize for disturbin' you, but I needed to bring these two men out here to talk to you."

By this time, Raymond and another man -- carrying a leather briefcase -- had emerged from the truck. Raymond also offered his apologies and said, "Mike, you need to meet this man. He called me the other day lookin' for you. I want to introduce Harrison Richards to you. You need to hear what he has to say."

Mr. Richards approached with his hand extended. He said, "Mr. Davidson, I'm so pleased to finally meet you."

Amanda came to stand by my side. I said, "Mr. Richards, let me introduce my partner and future bride, Amanda Reynolds. We're camping this weekend to get away and plan our future."

"Miss Reynolds, I'm very happy to meet you also. Please, both of you call me Harrison," Mr. Richards said.

Raymond had brought three additional chairs from his truck. Amanda brought out some additional cups and offered coffee.

After we were all seated, Mr. Richards began, "I'm a partner in H&R Homes, a home building company based in Tyler. We've been building homes in Tyler and other areas of the state. We're preparing to expand into the Longview market next year. We build higher end homes. Our cabinetmaker is retiring at the end of the year and closing down his shop. We need a man to replace him. After looking at several others and talking to most of the builders in the area, you, Mr. Davidson, are our choice."

"Why me?" I asked. "I'm a relative unknown and some would consider me too young with not enough experience."

Mr. Richards said, "Mike, if I may, we've looked at work from almost every cabinet shop in Longview, Tyler, and the surrounding area. Quality is what we're after, and your work is the highest quality we've found. I'm prepared to offer you a contract, today, for a minimum of fifty homes next year."

I was astounded. Fifty homes in one year, plus the work I had scheduled already? I was going to be extremely busy! Could Larry and I get out of school early? Where could I get competent help? I had to think this out. I also needed to talk this out with Amanda, since it would affect her, as well.

"Mr. Richards," I said, "this is totally unexpected. I'm gonna need a few days to consider your offer. I would really be interested, but there are several things I'll have to think about. Fifty homes in a year works out to about one per week, plus the work I've already contracted for, through Raymond, here. I need a little time to make sure that I can give you the quality work you want. I would also need to have any potential contract reviewed by my attorney."

Handing me his business card, Mr. Richards said, "Mike, I would expect no less." He reached into his briefcase and handed me a folded contract, saying, "Have your attorney review this contract. We would like to have your decision within two weeks."

Since we were all sitting and somewhat relaxed, and none of our visitors had finished their coffee, yet, I figured that it would be a good thing to try and get some more information about these homes and the type of work that Richards would be expecting from me.

"So, what can you tell me, about the homes you'll be building, Harrison?" I asked him.

"Well, Mike, we have plans for a large development of higher-end homes, to accommodate some of the hid- and higher-level executives from the oil and gas companies that are beginning to move into this part of Texas. We start with one of several floor-plan layouts, and work with the prospective owners to customize many details of the home's overall construction. The custom work includes the sort of cabinets the owner wants.

"We'd be looking at you to provide the cabinets for large, roomy kitchens, as well as wet bars. The homes will have three or four bathrooms, ranging from roomy baths off the master bedroom, to additional full baths in the bedroom area and a small powder room -- that's a room with a vanity and toilet -- off the entry hallway. We've also got two or three customers looking for a sort of 'home office' area, with cabinets and bookshelves, as well."

Richards opened his briefcase and pulled out a thick folder that held a single page diagram of a floor plan and a dozen or more 8 by 10 photographs. As I sifted through the photos, I could see that these were not the average tract homes I was used to working on, in my time with Raymond.

"This is an example of a similar home that we've built in another part of the state," Richards informed me as I looked at the photos. "We've typically offered cabinetry in ash, oak, and walnut, although we'll provide what the customer wants. We have access to decent supplies of maple, mahogany, cherry, and other woods through a millwork company in Houston."

Raymond said, "Mike, this is something I've been expectin'. Your work is really that good."

Mr. Richards said, "Mike, Raymond and the homeowners were kind enough to show me several of your jobs. I was especially impressed with the kitchen you did at Center Point. Your craftsmanship really shows on that job. The joinery is among the finest I've ever seen."

I said, "Mr. Richards, that job was built entirely on site, even the drawers and doors. I'm expecting our work to improve when I get my shop up and runnin'. We'll be able to use more jigs and fixtures to improve quality then. The Center Point house was also done while I was trainin' a new man. His work is improvin' on each job. We're a little slower than others because I insist on taking the time to select the material for color and grain match, before puttin' things together."

"Mike, that was one of the things that impressed me wit your work," Richards replied. "That uncompromising dedication to quality is what brought me here today. We want you to work for us because you can provide what our customers insist on."

"Mr. Richards," I smiled, "This is a very interesting proposal you've brought me, and I would very much like to take you up on it. But, as I said earlier, I need to do some thinkin' and figurin', to see if I can give you the sort of quality work you're expecting, and still meet my existing commitments. I won't shortcut any work, because my reputation depends on it. Let me see what I can figure out, with regard to production speed -- and also have my attorney go over this contract, and I'll get back to you within the next week or so."

"Fair enough, Mike," Richards grinned back at me. Then, looking around the campsite and the clearing and lake, he turned back to me.

"This is the most beautiful small lake I've ever seen, Mike. Who owns it?"

"It's mine," I told him, trying not to look too proud of the fact. "It's been here for over sixty years. The farm's been in the family since the 1850's. My grandmother just deeded it, and the farm, over to me earlier this year, with the stipulation that I never sell it, and always keep it lookin' the way you see it now."

Raymond added, "I remember when you got the farm, Mike. Even though I've been to the farmhouse, and the shop here, I didn't know you had this lovely little lake tucked away out here."

"Not many people know about it, Raymond," I answered him. "I restrict access to my family, and a very few people that I know, who'll respect and care for the land the way my family has. The lake has looked this way for over sixty years, and I intend to keep it lookin' just the way you see it."

"I can't imagine anyone in their right mind wanting to give up property this lovely," Richards shook his head. "You're a lucky man, Mike.'

"It comes with a price," I shook my head. "My grandmother has a form of cancer that the docs can't treat, and she's got maybe six or eight months left to live. She deeded it over to me, to avoid probate tangles."

"My sympathies, Mike," Richards said, looking a bit misty-eyed. "I've lost my share of family, over the years. Tell you what. Why don't you do your calculating, and get back to me. You're going to need some time to deal with things, when your grandmother finally passes, and Charles, here, tells me that you and this lovely young woman are fixin' to tie the knot real soon. I think we can work a little 'wiggle-room' into this contract, as far as the actual starting date is concerned. That ought to give you time to ramp up your production, and include in advance the time you'll need for both your honeymoon and dealing with your grandmother down the road. Would that make you any more interested?"

"Harrison," I chuckled, "You had me at 'fifty homes', but, yes, those little bits of grace do add some sweetening to the deal. I already said that I was interested. Let me do my thinkin' and get back to you."

"Fair enough, Mike," Richards smiled, reaching to shake hands with me. "Now, if you don't mind, I'd love to stroll around the shore of your little lake here a bit, and take in the view."

"Go ahead," I nodded. "It is a pretty nice view, isn't it?"

"I'll walk along with him, if you don't mind, Mike," Raymond chimed in.

As they wandered off along the shore of the lake, Charles turned to the two of us.

"Amanda, Mike," he began, "I really didn't want to bring those two out here, but they showed up at your shop this morning while I was pulling wire. They insisted that it was urgent they see you."

"That's alright, Charles; don't worry about it," I told him. "You did a good thing in bringin' 'em, since they had a really good business offer for me. If I can make it work, it goes a long way to helping me see to your daughter's future. I'm just glad that you came along with them."

"Well, someone had to show them the way," he laughed. "You having fun, Baby girl?"

"Yes, Daddy, we were!" Amanda giggled. "And we'll get back to havin' fun once y'all leave, too!"

Charles snorted, and then about split a gut laughing. Then he looked at his daughter and asked, "When did you start smokin', Amanda? I've never seen you doin' it, until just as we pulled up in the truck."

"I started -- occasionally -- last year," Amanda answered him, hanging her head. "A couple of the girls I hung out with at school, got me to try it over lunch, one day. Mike smokes, too, though, so he don't mind it. We were havin' one with our coffee, when you showed up."

Charles reached out a hand and gently put his index finger under Amanda's chin, lifting her head up to face him.

"Don't hang your head, Baby girl," he chided her gently, smiling. "You know your Mama and I still smoke, some -- and used to do it a lot more, back when we were your age -- so we can't fault you for takin' it up. You're a full adult woman, now, able to make your own mind up, on things."

"Thanks, Daddy," Amanda smiled.

"It's okay, Baby girl," he touched her cheek with his hand. "Just don't go feelin' self-conscious or anything about smokin' in front of us, from now on."

About that time, Harrison and Raymond finished their stroll along the lake, and wandered back to join us.

"Thanks for letting us take a look at your little slice of paradise here, Mike," Harrison told me. "I can see why you keep it such a secret."

"Likewise, Mike," Raymond added. "Though, any time you want to invite me out here to fish, you just let me know."

"I'll do that," I nodded, smiling.

"Mike, I want to apologize again, to you and Amanda, for intruding on your weekend getaway. I've been trying to catch you for the past three weeks. Raymond just explained to me -- while we were looking at the lake -- that you're still in school, and working evenings and Saturdays on this whole cabinet thing. That you can handle that sort of load, and still produce the quality of workmanship that I've seen in your jobs -- well, frankly, it amazes me, and it's just one more reason why I want you providing the cabinetry for our new homes."

"Yes, I'm still in school," I nodded. "I'm supposed to graduate in the spring, unless I can manage to figure out a way to test out earlier."

"You're in a vocational program for finish carpentry, if I heard Raymond correctly," Harrison said. "Is that true?"

"Yes, sir," I answered.

"Seems to me that, if you brought your teachers out to that home at Center Point, and showed 'em the cabinets you built there, they'd go ahead and sign off on you, right quick.'

"It's a thought," I nodded, "but I'm still looking into the early graduation bit, at the moment. It'd sure help me get my business up and runnin' quicker, to not have school to deal with."

"Well, if I can help any, in that regard, you let me know." Harrison nodded, reaching out to shake my hand once again. "I'll look to hear from you in a week or two."

Then he turned to Raymond and Charles.

"Gentlemen, we've intruded enough on these folks' weekend. I suggest that we take our leave of them and let them get back to their relaxing."

Raymond stayed behind for a moment, as Charles and Harrison moved off toward the truck.

"I'll get with you on Monday," he suggested. "I've got some ideas on where you might find a couple of extra hands for the shop."

"I'll look forward to it, Raymond," I told him.

Raymond waved briefly, headed for the truck, and -- a few moments after that, they had vanished back into the woods along the road.

As the truck vanished into the woods, I sat in my chair and Amanda planted herself on my lap.

"Is that a good deal, Honey?' she asked me.

"Sugar, that's a lot of work he was talkin' about," I said. "That's averagin' a house a week, plus Raymond's work. I've also gotten interest from other local builders, too. As far as whether it's a good deal, a lot of that is gonna rest on what Richards expects from me, and what he's willin' to pay for it."

I opened the contract and started reading through it. I was primarily interested in the payment schedule and to see if any amounts were specified. I found the section covering terms. They would pay for work done within three working days of completing the installation. I was to furnish and install the cabinet doors and drawer fronts. I was to do the work for an agreed on price per linear foot of cabinetry. Countertops were not part of my work. The contract was for cabinets, wet bars, and vanities only.

Folding the contract I looked at Amanda and said, "Let me put this in the truck, Sugar. It looks pretty good. Now, what were we doin' before we were so rudely interrupted?"

Amanda got up so I could take the papers to the truck. When I closed the door she was right behind me with a big smile on her face, saying, "Honey, we were talkin' about gettin' naked when we heard 'em comin'."

***

At the house, Maggie had come over to talk with Mom about our wedding plans. After she arrived, Grandma sat her and Mom down across the kitchen table from her.

"Patsy, Maggie, ya'll think you're hidin' things from me," she began. "I know Mike and Amanda are campin' at the lake. I also know what they're doin' down there, so don't either of you deny it. Those kids are down there, havin' sex, aren't they?"

Mom and Maggie flashed astonished looks at each other. Mom finally gave a shrug of her shoulders and asked, "Grandma, how do you know this?"

"I've been a mother a lot longer than ya'll have," Grandma smiled. "You let two kids as much in love as those two are go off campin' in the woods for a weekend. You know very well that they're likely to be getting' frisky with each other. You should know, Patsy; you and my Bill weren't exactly angels, when he was courtin' you. As for you, Maggie, your Mama and I talked plenty, back in the day, so I know all about some of the shenanigans you pulled."

Grandma smiled craftily across the table at the two younger women, took a sip of coffee, and continued.

"Patsy, you were talkin' to Mike, outside, Thursday night. Want me to tell you what you were talkin' to him about? You were tellin' him to let Amanda control how things went, durin' her first time. And, Maggie, I'd be willin' to bet that you've had the same sort of talk with your daughter, and told her to take control of things, her first time outa the gate. Am I right?"

"Okay, Grandma; you're right. What do you want?" Mom asked, sheepishly.

"I think you two should get Charles and go pack Amanda's things, and move her in here with Mike. If ya'll are gonna let 'em do it in the back of that old truck, you should let 'em do it in Mike's bed where they'd be a lot more comfortable. After all, they're gonna be husband and wife in a month, anyway."

Mom looked at Maggie for a moment, then shrugged her shoulders.

"What do you think, Maggie?" she asked. "Amanda's your daughter. Do you want to go ahead and do what Grandma's suggesting? And, do you think that Charles will be alright, with it?"

"It makes a lot of sense, when you think about it," Maggie agreed. "It won't take much to get a fair amount of Amanda's clothes and personal items over here and put away. What are we gonna tell the kids, though?"

"Ya'll haven't heard the weather report, lately," Grandma laughed. "There's a cold front and a chance of rain comin' in, tonight. Those two kids'll be downright miserable in that old tent. Even their love won't be enough to keep 'em warm!"

"Let me go out to the shop, and tell Charles. He'll think I've gone plumb crazy, but it'll be easier to use his truck to move everything."




Amanda Pt. 04



"If he kicks up a fuss, send him to me," Grandma laughed. I'll straighten him out!"

***

We'd waited long enough, while I read over Harrison's contract, to be pretty certain that nobody else was coming to interrupt our weekend together, and so we straightened up the campsite a little and washed the extra coffee cups and put them away.

"I can see that I'm gonna have to put in a gate that I can lock, to keep people outta here," I told Amanda.

"That sounds good to me," she giggled. Then, looking at me with those lovely, mesmerizing brown eyes of hers, she asked, "Honey, d'you suppose that contract would let us build that cabin out here, next spring?"

"That depends," I mused. "If I could get out of school sooner, and get my shop operatin' faster, we might be able to manage it. It wouldn't take much. The place where the truck is sittin' is already pretty level. If we build on a pier and beam foundation we could do it pretty fast. We'd need to take maybe a few days away from the shop, in order to get the foundation built and the structure framed up and dried in. After that, it'd be a job we could do on weekends."

"Good!" she smiled. "On Monday, I want you to stop in at the guidance counselor's office at school. Ask about taking the GED test."

"What's that, Sugar," I asked.

"It's a test that's equivalent to a high school diploma, if you pass it," she replied. "If you can take the test and pass it, you'll be out of school and ready to get moving on the business."

"Why haven't you told me about this before now?" I asked, as I started to unbutton her shirt.

"I only found out a couple of weeks ago. There's a guy in my history class that finished high school that way. He quit school to go in the service and took the GED there," she said. She'd gone without a bra when we'd gotten dressed, that morning, so my opening her shirt and slipping it off of her shoulders exposed her magnificent breasts to my sight.

I was right behind her in removing my shirt, and we tossed the shirts on the back seat of the truck. Jeans were the next items discarded. We kept our shoes on and got out clean shorts and tee shirts, laying them on the tailgate of the truck, where they'd be handy if we had more visitors. Meanwhile, the coffee I'd drunk was wanting out. I started around the truck when Amanda asked, "Where ya goin'?"

"Gotta pee," I said.

Amanda followed me and stood there while I took care of business. When finished, I turned to her and said, "Sugar, I want us to have the kind of open relationship with each other that my mom says she had with my dad. From what she's told me, they were completely open about everything. What do you think?"

She looked into my eyes and said, "Mike, I want that too. I don't believe a couple can have a good relationship without always being totally honest and open with each other."

That brought on a sense of guilt because of what I'd done with Mom. That was something that would have to stay hidden in the past.

She then melted against me again for another hug and kiss. "Mike, Honey, let's get back in the bed," she said. "I want you again."

Playing dumb, I asked, "What do you want?"

Pulling on my semi erect penis, she said, "You dummy, I want this back in my pussy, where it belongs."

Kissing her again, I said, "I knew what you wanted. I was just tryin' to find out what you'd say. You're tellin' me that you wanna play around again aren't you?"

Walking to the back of the truck, pulling me along by her grip on my erection, she said, "You come with me. I'm gonna show you exactly what I want, and you're gonna give it to me."

"Hold on a minute," I said. "Let me get a towel or two and a washcloth so we don't have to get up so quick to clean up."

She refused to release her grip on me, so she led me to the cab of the truck. After getting the towels, I followed closely behind Amanda to the tailgate, where the ladder was, because of her grip. She released her grip to climb the ladder into the bed of the truck. When she bent over on the tailgate she was in a perfect position. After quickly pitching the towels into the bed of the truck, I grasped her thighs and leaned forward to kiss her vulva before licking from her clit, through her slit and across her perineum, and into the cleft between her magnificent butt cheeks.

"Ooohhhh! I like that!" she said, as she wiggled her butt in my face. "Do that again."

I grasped her hips and pulled her back for better access. Opening her legs slightly, I spread her labia for better access. I licked and sucked on her clit before licking through her slit to her vaginal opening. I licked around her opening and stuck my tongue as deeply into her as I could.

Amanda pushed her pussy back against my face as she moaned, "Oh Honey, that feels so good."

After plunging my tongue into Amanda's vagina repeatedly, I licked across her perineum and through the cleft of her ass. She jumped and shivered slightly when I licked across her anal star. I had to go back and lick it again, which made her jump again. This time she pushed back against my tongue.

I briefly wondered whether she'd enjoy my playing with her ass, the way Mom had, but there was only one way to find out for certain.

I returned to her vulva and attacked her clit. I licked across it several times before sucking it in between my lips where I began to flick and tease it with my tongue.

Amanda finally pulled away from me and said, "Mike, get your butt up here and in bed with me!"

Knowing what was good for me, I complied.

When I got into our bed, Amanda was waiting for me. She pushed me onto my back and then turned and threw her leg over me as she again pushed her pussy into my face while her mouth hovered over my penis.

"Back to what you were doin'," she ordered.

I returned to licking her labia and sucking on her clit. Amanda was already very aroused. Her outer labia were swollen and her vagina was weeping fluids copiously. While I was sucking and tongue teasing her clit, I slowly pushed the middle finger of my left hand into her vagina and began to thrust it in and out.

Amanda was busy working on me. She was stroking my length while licking and kissing the head of my penis. Swirling her tongue around the corona and over the frenulum was driving me crazy with lust. She used her other hand to gently cup my scrotum and roll my balls around.

I took the first finger of my right hand and wet it with her fluids before I pressed it against the star of her anus. Amanda's body was beginning to quiver with the onset of an orgasm as my finger penetrated her anal sphincter.

She screamed as the orgasm took her. Amanda shuddered, clamped her thighs around my head, and tried to bury my face in her pussy as she came. Fluid poured from her all over my face. I was being drowned and suffocated by pussy. What a wonderful feeling, to know that I'd made her cum so hard.

After Amanda came down from the orgasmic high and relaxed, she started working on my erection again. I was already very close to climaxing. She was sucking on my penis when I said, "Amanda, Sugar, I'm about to cum."

She was using her tongue to lick across the end of my penis when I shot the first time. Amanda was swallowing rapidly as I climaxed in her mouth. After I finished cumming, I said, "Sugar, stop. It's too sensitive right now."

Amanda turned and lay on top of me. My face was still coated with her cum and she had my cum on the corners of her mouth. We kissed and each began to lick the other's face clean.

After kissing and sharing each other's taste I said, "Amanda, I love you. I love you more than anything. You complete me in ways I never thought possible."

She said, "Mike, you are the fulfillment of my wants and desires. I love you so much. Honey, I can't wait for us to be married. I'm so looking forward to living my life with you."

After we'd lain there for a while and exchanged more kisses and endearments, Amanda said, "Honey, there's something I want to know."

"What's that, Sugar?" I asked.

"Why were you playin' with my butt? Why'd you stick your finger in me back there?" she asked.

"You made me do it, Sugar," I said. "When you were bent over on the tailgate, I was lickin' your pussy. You jumped when I licked across there. That made me think you might like it. Didn't you like it?" I asked.

"It really felt kinda weird at first," she said. "It did feel good, though. I think I'd like for you to do it again."

I'd recovered and was fully erect again. Amanda sat up and worked her pussy back and forth along my length. I reached up and began rolling and tugging her nipples between my thumbs and forefingers. Amanda's pussy was still wet and soon had me coated with her moisture. She rose, raised my penis and slowly slid down my length. The feel of her tight, wet, warmth surrounding me was exquisite. Looking at our joining I saw our pubic hairs mingling.

After a moment, Amanda began a circular motion with her hips. I reached down to tease her clit. As her arousal mounted, she began to raise and lower her pussy on me. I started thrusting into her vagina and pinching her clit between my thumb and forefinger. Amanda's moans grew louder and louder and her downward thrusts became harder as she approached orgasm. I was thrusting into her harder also.

The dam finally burst. Amanda screamed my name as she came. I called hers when I did the same. She again collapsed on me as she relaxed. I wrapped my arms around this lovely woman as she shuddered through her orgasmic aftershocks.

After we relaxed and shared a prolonged kiss, Amanda said, "Mike, you did it to me again. I can hardly move. I love you so much, Honey."

I kissed her again before saying, "Amanda, you are the light of my life. I don't know what I'd do without you. I love you too, Sugar."

I reached my shorts and got into the pocket pulling out my cigarettes and lighter. I lit one, mentally thanking Mom for showing me just how good a cigarette was, after good lovemaking.

"Gimme," Amanda murmured in a sultry tone of voice, reaching out a hand to take the cigarette from me. I studied her silently, as she brought the cigarette to her lips, took a long drag, and inhaled deeply.

"Mmm, yesss," she sighed pleasantly as she exhaled. I raised an eyebrow at her, questioningly.

"A couple of the girls that I usually take a smoke break with, at school, were talking about smoking one day. They both seemed to agree that the cigarette after sex was the best one of the day. Now I see what they were talkin' about!"

"You want one for yourself, Sugar?" I asked her.

"Mmm, why not," she nodded, taking another drag.

"You keep that one," I told her, grabbing my pack and lighting another. I rolled to my other side, locating the battered old tin pie plate that Mom and I had used as an ashtray when we camped out, and put it between us where we could both reach it.

"It is good, ain't it?" I asked. "Sugar, your parents didn't know that you smoked? Do they?"

"Mama don't," she said. "Or, at least I thought she didn't, until Daddy made that comment, this morning, that he and Mama both smoked a bit. I know that she smoked, years ago. We've got an old shoebox full of photos, and there are plenty of them of Mama, when she was younger, with a cigarette in her hand. I just don't remember seeing her smoke in front of me. Maybe she only smokes after sex; I don't know. Daddy still smokes, but not much. A pack'll last him four or five days. I guess I was hidin' it from 'em 'cause I'm still kind of 'new' at it. I don't make it look all graceful and glamorous, like your mom does, when she smokes."

"Seems to me, that's just nerves," I commented. "Once you stop bein' all nervous about how you look, it'll all smooth out, and the 'ease' will come. As far as I'm concerned, you look pretty -- and pretty sexy -- to me, when you smoke."

"Well, then, that settles it!" she laughed. "You're the only one whose opinion I really care about, anyway!"

We lay there in the truck bed, relaxing and talking with each other for as long as it took to smoke our cigarettes, and another one apiece. Then, looking at the angle of the sun, I figured it was nearly mid-afternoon. We'd been otherwise occupied during our late-morning and early afternoon, what with our unexpected visitors and the long round of lovemaking, and we'd completely missed eating lunch. We decided, then, that we ought to get up and get cleaned off, so that we could start preparing our evening meal.

There were still some coals in the fire ring, and the water hadn't completely cooled off. I threw some small bits of wood on the coals and soon had a nice fire blazing again. Amanda had gotten the soap, washcloths, and towels out, so that we could wash. We each took a good sponge bath and rinsed before drying off, and then I rinsed and refilled the water-pot with clean water and put it back onto the grate over the fire ring.

The temperature was dropping more rapidly than I'd expected it to, even for late afternoon, so we decided that -- much as we loved being naked -- it was time to put on our shorts and tee shirts. That turned out to be a good choice, because we were looking through the coolers to decide what we wanted to eat when we heard the sound of another car approaching through the woods. There wouldn't have been enough time to scramble and get clothed, before this batch of unexpected visitors arrived.

"That does it!" I told Amanda. "I'm putting that damned gate in, next weekend, even if nothin' else gets done around here!"

Amanda was staring at the point where the road emerged from the woods, a hand cocked to one ear.

"That sounds like Mama's car," she told me. "What's she doin', comin' down here? Honey, I told her that we wanted to be alone, this weekend!"

"I told my mom the same thing," I nodded. "I wonder what's goin' on."

Sure enough, Maggie's Wagoneer came out of the woods. We could tell that someone was with her. They drove up to our camp and stopped. Maggie and Mom got out of the car.

"What're ya'll doin' here?" Amanda asked brusquely.

"From the looks of things, ya'll haven't listened to the radio have you?" Maggie asked.

"No, Mama," Amanda said. "We've been talkin'."

"Sure you have, Baby, among other things," Maggie said dryly. "There's a bad cold front comin'. It's due in here sometime tonight and supposed to be down in the upper thirties in the mornin'."

Mom said, "That's right. The front's a strong one. It's already through Amarillo and the temperature there dropped fifteen degrees in about thirty minutes accordin' to the TV. Ya'll better come in."

I looked at Amanda and said, "Sugar, we better do it."

I asked Mom, "Did they say anything about rain?"

Mom replied, "They're givin' about a sixty to seventy percent chance."

Looking at Amanda again, I said, "This is serious. If it rains hard we might not be able to get out of here."

Maggie said, "We'll help you get ready to go."

We all got busy packing up. The ladies drained the coolers and packed them and the chairs into the back of Maggie's car. I dumped the water on the fire and helped Amanda with folding our bedding and putting everything in the back seat of the truck. Maggie and Mom were untying the tent so we could take it down and fold it. Once it was out of the way, I started the truck and backed up to the tree so I could take the rope and supports down.

We finished loading everything in the truck. I told them I was going to park the truck in the back area of the shop by the tractor. Amanda rode with me and the moms followed us out.

After parking the truck, I told Amanda, "Leave everything. I'll unload tomorrow. Just get your clothes."

We grabbed our bags and headed for the house, where we helped unload Maggie's car. When we finished, Maggie and Mom stood on the back porch looking at Amanda and me. We both knew they were dying to question us.

Amanda looked at them both before saying, "Okay, let's have it. I know ya'll are havin' a fit," before she started laughing.

Maggie and Mom shared a look before Maggie asked, "Amanda, did ya'll do what you were wantin' to do?"

Amanda said, "Yes, we did."

After a long pause, Maggie asked, "Is that all you have to say?"

Amanda asked, "What do you want me to say, Mama? Mike's a wonderful lover. He brought me pleasures I never knew I could feel."

Mom asked me, "What about you?"

"Mom, livin' and lovin' with Amanda is gonna be wonderful. It's just gonna get better and better," I said.

Amanda hugged Mom and unknowingly made the understatement of the year when said, "Mama Davidson, how can I ever thank you for teachin' us both what we needed to know?"

Mom pulled Amanda into a tight hug, saying, "Baby, I'm so glad you both had a good time and enjoyed each other. That's a big part of what makes a marriage happy and successful."

"She's absolutely right," we heard. We all looked and saw Grandma standing there. How much had she heard?

Grandma came up and hugged Amanda and me both before saying, "You two youngsters are where I've wanted you for a long time. I'm so happy that you changed your wedding plans for me. Thank you both. Amanda, you might as well stay here with Mike tonight. I know you want to and I know he wants you to."

Continuing, Grandma said, "Ya'll thought you were bein' sneaky and hidin' what you were doin' from me. I've known this was gonna happen before ya'll ever met. Let me sit down in the swing with you both. I've got somethin' to tell the both of you."

"This is just between me and the young 'uns," she added, when neither Mom nor Maggie made a move to go indoors. "Would y'all mind waitin' inside for us?"

Our mothers nodded, smiling softly, and stepped into the house, closing the door behind them. We sat in the swing with Amanda and I on either side of Grandma. She turned and kissed Amanda on the cheek before doing the same to me. Taking our hands in hers, she brought them together and clasped them in her lap.

"Amanda, Mike, I want both of you to know that I love you. You are both exactly the type of grandchildren Daddy and I wanted. I've watched the both of you grow up into wonderful young adults. I have no regrets about leaving the farm in ya'll's hands."

Looking at me, she said, "Mike, after I'm gone you'll need to see my lawyer. He'll have some papers for you and the key to a safe deposit box at the bank."

Looking at Amanda, she said, "Amanda, as Mike's wife you'll need to be there too. There's something in the papers and the safe deposit box for the both of you."

She continued, "Mike, your grandfather and I planned this and worked on it from the time your dad died. Don't ask questions. Just see the lawyer. He'll explain everything. Now, Mike, take Amanda to ya'll's bedroom and both of you get cleaned up. We'll have dinner on the table when ya'll get through."

With that, Grandma went into the house. I kissed Amanda and said, "Come on, Sugar. We've got our orders."

Taking her hand, I led her into our bedroom and closed the door. Our bedroom. What a wonderful thought. Here, in this room, is where I would always be sleeping with my wonderful, amazing, Amanda.

I opened the closet door to show Amanda where she could hang her clothing. We were both surprised to see that some of Amanda's clothes and shoes had been brought in and placed in the closet. We then went to the dresser and started looking in the drawers. Some of her lingerie was already there. One drawer had panties and bras, another had her stockings, garter belts and socks, and a third had nightwear.

A look in the bathroom revealed one of her bathrobes. Opening the linen cabinet, we found her feminine sanitary needs.

We looked at each other. I said, "Sugar, somebody's already moved you in. I like that idea."

"So do I," she said. "That means I can stay here with you between now and when we get married. Just think, Honey. We don't have to hide anymore."




Amanda Pt. 04



I started undressing and Amanda did the same. I said, "We should shower together to save time and water."

Kissing me, she said, "I like the way you think, Honey. Let's do it."

Granddad had the tub removed and a five-foot shower installed four years before he passed away. When I opened the shower door we found that her shampoo, conditioner, and bath soap had been moved in also.

Showering with her was a delight. We each washed the other and I shampooed her hair. After applying and then rinsing the conditioner we were finished. I turned the water off and opened the door. We stepped onto bath rugs where we dried each other. Leading her to the built in dressing table it one corner of the bedroom, I pulled out the stool and seated her. We found her make up, hairbrushes and combs, and personal beauty items there.

I combed out Amanda's beautiful hair while she very lightly applied her make up. After finishing her hair, I returned to the bathroom to shave and brush my teeth. Opening the medicine cabinet, I found another toothbrush and some other personal items of hers. Calling her, I pointed the items out.

After we were dressed, I kissed her and said, "Sugar, let's go see what's goin' on."

I opened the door. We left the bedroom, and went into the kitchen. We heard voices coming from the living room. Going there we found everyone sitting and talking. All conversation stopped when we walked in. I seated myself and Amanda got in my lap.

I asked, "Grandma, do I have you to thank?"

She asked in return, "Mike, why do you think I need thanks?"

I said, "Well, to whoever it's due, thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Charles asked, "Mike, why would somebody need thanks?"

Amanda said, "Daddy, you know why. Mike's tryin' to thank the person that had the idea to move me in. Now, who was it, and why? I wanna thank 'em too."

Grandma started laughing before she said, "It was my idea, but they did all the work. I knew where ya'll were and what ya'll were doin' down there. Your mothers were over here this mornin' talkin' about ya'll's weddin' plans. I told 'em that ya'll needed to be more comfortable than sleepin' in the back of that truck. I told 'em to pack up some of your things and move you in here."

Amanda got up and walked over to Grandma and hugged her, saying, "Thank you so very much. How can we ever repay you for your kindness and thoughtfulness?"

Grandma kissed her cheek and said, "Amanda, you and my grandson gettin' together is payment enough. I'm just glad everything's out in the open now. Ya'll've been tiptoein' around tryin' to hide things from me. I was ya'll's age once and remember what it was like. Now, I want you two to love each other like you mean it. You don't have to hide anymore. We all know what you're doin', so be open about it. Now, let's eat."

I got up and escorted them to the dining room. I tried to seat Grandma at her normal seat at the foot of the table. She refused, saying, "That's Amanda's seat now." Grandma insisted on being seated on the side by her.

After we were all seated and eating, Charles asked, "Mike, have you looked at that contract yet?"

I said, "I read through it after ya'll left." Looking at Amanda, I continued, "The distraction in my lap didn't bother me too much."

Charles started laughing, before saying, "Amanda, when a man's studyin' business you need to leave him alone."

Mom asked, "Mike, what contract is he talkin' about?"

"The one I was offered this mornin'," I said. "Raymond brought a man named Harrison Richards out this mornin' to see me. They found Charles workin' in the shop. He didn't wanta tell 'em where I was until they told him what they wanted."

Charles said, "Yeah. I figured I'd better go with 'em to where ya'll were camped."

"Mom, he offered me a contract to do the cabinet work in fifty houses, next year. They'll be in the Tyler and Longview areas. From the way he talked, I'm lookin' at way over a hundred thousand dollars here. I won't know for certain, until I have the chance to sit down and do some figurin' on it."

Mom asked, "What about your other work? Can you handle a job that big?"

"I'm gonna have to really look at that," I said. "He wants an answer within two weeks. I'm gonna drop by the lawyer Monday or Tuesday and have him review the contract, and start on the business organization. I'll have to talk to Raymond about his work, and start lookin' for some help. Right now, I think we can do it."

Grandma asked, "Mike, what are you gonna call your business?"

I looked at Amanda and said, "You tell 'em."

Everybody was looking at her when she said, "It's gonna be A&M Woodworks. He's namin' it for both of us."

We spent the remainder of the meal discussing the business and work prospects.

After dinner was finished and cleaned up we all were in the living room. Charles and Maggie said they needed to go. Maggie had misty eyes when she hugged me and said, "Mike, you take care of my baby."

I said, "Mrs. Reynolds, that's my full intention. I owe you and Charles a debt I can never hope to repay. Your greatest treasure is now my greatest treasure, also."

Charles started to shake my hand but pulled me into a man-hug instead before he said, "Mike, thank you for taking care of Amanda."

Amanda hugged and kissed her parents at the door. She said, "Thank you, Mama and Dad, for letting me stay with this wonderful man. Ya'll take care. We'll see you tomorrow."

After they left I called Raymond to ask if he would be available tomorrow. He was, so I made arrangements to meet him tomorrow afternoon.

Amanda and I talked about Thanksgiving plans with Mom and Grandma. We discussed the sleeping arrangements. I told them that we would stay in the office in the shop while Junior's family was here. Uncle Junior and Aunt Kathy could have our bedroom.

Grandma asked about what I wanted to eat. Amanda told us that her family always had a turkey. I said I would prefer a ham but we could also get a small turkey.

While we were talking the forecast cold front and rain came through. I changed the thermostat for heat. I asked, "Sugar, did you see a coat in the closet? You're gonna need one tomorrow."

She went to look and came back saying, "There's two of them there."

We continued our talking until Grandma said she was getting tired. She hugged each of us and kissed our cheeks as she left for bed. Mom was right behind her. Amanda and I made the rounds locking the doors and turning out lights on our way to bed.

When we entered our bedroom she pulled me into a tight hug and kiss. She asked, "Honey, which side of the bed do you want?"

"I'll take the left if you don't mind," I told her.

She opened the dresser drawer and asked, "What do you want me to wear?"

"What's wrong with your skin?" I asked her.

"Nothin'," she said. "I just thought you might wanna take it off me," she said with a giggle.

"Okay," I said. "Let's see what you've got, there."

Amanda laid out a couple of baby doll sets and an ankle length, sheer, pink gown with a fitted bust. She had a matching robe to go with it.

"Let's try the gown," I said. "The color'll look good on you."

We both undressed. I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth and pee. Amanda came in while I was brushing. She sat on the toilet and started to pee. I could feel my erection growing while I finished brushing.

After I rinsed my mouth I gave her a kiss before leaving and closing the bathroom door. I turned the lights off except for the lamp on the nightstand on my side of the bed. I lay down and pulled the covers up to my waist.

Hearing the bathroom door open, I looked and saw a vision before me. Amanda was standing there with the gown and robe on. She walked to my side of the bed and stood, asking, "What do you think, Honey?"

I could see her body through the gown. Her areolae and nipples showed plainly as did her pubic hair. "You're what dreams are made of," I told her. "Now, get around there and get in bed with me."

Amanda swayed delightfully as she walked around the bed. Taking her robe off and laying it across the foot of the bed she lay down beside me. Meeting her in the middle of the bed, I wrapped her in my arms and kissed her before turning out the light.

***

When I awoke the next morning, Amanda was not there. Her robe and gown were lying on the foot of the bed. Getting up, I pulled on some jeans and a tee shirt and went looking. Opening the bedroom door, I smelled coffee. I headed for the kitchen, where I found Amanda. She was already dressed and was just pouring two cups of coffee.

"Mornin', Sunshine," I said.

Turning, she brought a cup of coffee, sitting it on the kitchen table. Giving me a kiss, she got the other cup and sat down. I sat across from her and asked, "What time did you get up?"

"About twenty minutes ago," she said. "I was wantin' to bring you coffee in bed, but you ruined that."

"Yeah," I said. "I woke up and you were missin'. I came lookin'."

"What're we doin' today?" she asked.

"Well, I've gotta unload the truck this mornin'," I said. "Then, we've gotta go see your parents, and I've gotta go see Raymond this afternoon. Do you have any schoolwork to do?" I asked.

"No, I'm all caught up," she said. "I've got a couple of papers due in about three weeks. Most of them are done except for typin'."

"Do we need to think about gettin' you a desk?" I asked.

"No, Honey," she said. "If it's all right I can do them at Mama's house."

"Sugar, you can do whatever you think's best," I told her. "Now, I have a question for you."

"What's that," she asked.

"When do you want me to put you on my checkin' account?" I asked. "You're gonna need money to buy gas and other things. Another thing, what about your car? Is it yours or does it belong to your parents?"

"Those are all very good questions," we heard.

Looking around, we saw Mom standing in the door. Amanda got up and poured her a cup of coffee, as she said, "Good morning, Mama Davidson. How are you, this morning?"

Mom said, "I'm fine, Baby. How're you doin'?"

Amanda said, "I'm wonderful. I was very comfortable last night."

Looking at me, Amanda said, "Honey, let's wait 'til we get married, about the checkin' account. The way I understand it, the bank is gonna want proof that we're married. Mama and Daddy told me they'd continue to pay my tuition and books and pay for my gas to get to school. They gave me the car for high school graduation. We need to get it today and bring it home."

Amanda thought for a minute before saying, "Home. This is my home, now, too, isn't it?"

Grandma had come into the kitchen in time to hear Amanda. She said, "It surely is your home now, Dear; yours and Mike's."

Amanda got up and hugged Grandma before saying, "Grandma Davidson, please have a seat. I'll get your coffee."

After serving Grandma, she asked, "What does everybody want for breakfast? I'll start cookin' in a few minutes."

Mom said, "No, Amanda, you sit down. I'll fix breakfast."

She replied, "Mama Davidson, I need to prove to Mike that I can cook. He needs to know that before we get married."

Mom asked, "Can you make biscuits?"

Amanda said, "Sure can. Show me where the ingredients are and I'll make 'em for breakfast."

"While y'all are arguin' about who's doin' what, for breakfast, I'm gonna step outside for a few minutes," I said. Amanda looked at me, and I put two fingertips to my lips and mimed taking a puff. Grandma missed that signal, as she had her attention focused on the good-natured banter that was being exchanged by her daughter and my soon-to-be wife.

"That sounds like a good idea, Honey," Amanda replied. "Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all," I smiled, and waited until she'd grabbed her coffee cup and mine. Then I held the door for her, and we stepped onto the porch. Once the door was shut behind us, I pulled the pack of cigarettes from my shirt pocket and shook a couple loose, extending the pack toward Amanda. She took one, and I pulled the other from the pack with my lips as I dug in my pocket for my lighter. I lit hers first, then mine.

"Oh, my," Amanda sighed, following her first long drag with a sip from her mug. "A cigarette with coffee, first thing in the morning, tastes almost as good as that cigarette after sex!"

"I was thinking' exactly the same thing, Darlin'," I grinned at her across the rim of my mug.

"We missed the one, last night, though," she added as an afterthought.

"Well, I didn't want to smoke indoors, on account of Grandma, and I didn't think either one of us was in the mood -- after that wonderful lovin' -- to get up and get dressed, just to go outdoors and have a smoke."

"There's a door out of the bedroom to the porch, you know," she informed me.

"I know," I told her. "There was still the crawlin' out of the nice, warm bed, and that nice, warm pair of arms I was thinkin' about."

Thinking back to last night, I had to chuckle. I'd always heard the joke, where about 'Do you smoke after sex?' and the silly answer, where the other person says, 'I don't know; I've never looked.' Amanda was so hot, when she got stirred up, that she most definitely 'smoked' during sex. Mom was absolutely right about her being a firecracker. Once she got used to it, I was going to be hard pressed to keep up with her. Her attitude and enthusiasm toward sex was every bit as strong as Mom's was.

"Mind if I join the two of you?" came Mom's voice, as she stepped onto the porch, an unlit cigarette already poised between her lips. "And, can I get a light?"

Well, that was the end of any talkin' sex between me and Amanda, so we turned our conversation to the beauty of the sunrise -- cold as the weather was, the wispy clouds near the horizon were shot through with varying shades of pink and orange and purple as the sun made its way above the edge of the world -- and our agendas for the day.

While I was looking at the day and thinking my thoughts, Grandma came to the back door. She asked, "What're y'all doin' out there in the cold? Get your butts back in here where it's warm."

"We're lookin' at the day and havin' a smoke," I said.

"Why aren't you inside?" she asked. "After all, this is your house, now. Y'all can smoke indoors, if you want to."

"I don't wanna bother you," I said.

"It don't bother me," she said. "Not at all! After all, Daddy, Bill, and Junior all smoked in here. It's your house; do what you want. To tell you the God's honest truth, even though it's been years -- since before your Granddad passed away -- since the last time I took a puff off a cigarette, I've kinda missed the smell of smoke in the air."

We trooped back into the kitchen and took our seats at the table while we finished our cigarettes, and then Mom and Amanda got back to cooking our breakfast. Before long, at all, it was ready. I got another cup of coffee and sat down to eat.

Amanda's biscuits were excellent. They had risen well, and were very light. After tasting one I told her, "Well, Sugar, I'll keep you around just for your biscuits," as I laughed.

"I thought you wanted me for the fringe benefits," Amanda laughed.

"Well, there's that too," I said, laughing.

"Okay, you two," Grandma said, laughing with us. "Settle down before I spank the both of you."

After breakfast I went to the shop to unload the truck. Some items went back into the smokehouse, the sheets and towels went in the laundry, and the blankets went back into the linen closet. While I was busy with that, Raymond called the house and explained that he'd gotten tied up at his shop, and would appreciate it if I could drop by instead of him coming to see me. Mom wanted to look at the contract, so I left it with her while Amanda and I went to her parent's home. After a visit and lunch, Amanda got her school materials and car, and followed me home.

It was about time for me to leave to see Raymond. Amanda wanted to go with me, especially after I said I also wanted to talk to Larry. When we arrived at Raymond's he was in his shop again.

"Hello, Amanda," he said. "Are you keepin' this bum straight?"

I'd warned Amanda about Raymond's sense of humor, so she started laughing, before she said, "It's a hard job but somebody's gotta do it."

Raymond laughed uproariously before looking at me, saying, "She'll do."

We got down to our discussion. Amanda was especially interested in the parts about payroll and general business accounting. We reviewed the contract because I trusted Raymond's opinion.

"This looks to be a preliminary agreement," he informed me. "It's just setting up the basics of the eventual agreement that the two of you -- you and Harrison -- will work under. Eventually, you might want to put some cabinets together against a section of wall, in the unused area of the shop or in the office, and get a photographer to come in and take some professional shots that can be used so that Harrison's customers can see what the cabinets might look like in their own homes. I think that you've done enough different jobs for me, with varying stains and finishes, so that we can put together some photos from your actual work. I ought to be able to talk at least some of the home owners we've worked for into letting us go in with a photographer and get some shots."

We also discussed the help I would need. He suggested a couple of semi-retired carpenters that would be good shop hands. I asked about John, the man that had trained me. I said I really needed an experienced cabinetmaker to act as a shop foreman.

After thinking about what I'd said, Raymond called John from his shop phone. After a brief visit, Raymond got to the point. He explained to John what I was looking for. After some discussion, Raymond asked if I thought a part time would work. I said that it would, that what I wanted was someone that could read drawings and cut lists and supervise the shop when I was out measuring or installing a job.

Raymond passed the phone to me. John and I talked for a while about what I thought I needed. I told him where the shop was and we made arrangements for him to come out and talk more.

While we were in Raymond's shop, I showed Amanda the tools I'd bought. I told her we were going to start moving them next weekend.

After Raymond and I concluded our business, we went by Larry's home. He and Karen were at her parent's home and wouldn't be back for a few hours. Lawrence and Connie were pleased to meet Amanda and promised to be at our wedding.

After leaving the Kelly's home, we returned home. We both had an early morning tomorrow with school and, in my case, work. Amanda and I both wanted to spend more time with Mom and Grandma. We also wanted to spend some time with each other.

***

Larry and Karen arrived about fifteen minutes before Amanda and I each needed to leave. We shared a kiss before we each went our way. On the way to school I told Larry about the GED test. I told him it was the same as a high school diploma. He was really interested when I said we could get out of school and not have to work nights any more. We both decided to see the counselor first. I also wanted to talk to Mr. Groves, my shop instructor, about a good woodworking student or two.

The counselor attempted to talk us out of taking the GED until I mentioned the size of the contract I had pending. She scheduled us for the test at the end of the week and handed us a thick stack of materials to use as study aids for the test.

After school, I stopped by the lawyer's office. I asked him to review the contract and I told him what I wanted for a business organization. I paid a deposit on his fees and told him I needed the review by the end of the week.

Larry and I went to work and made a day.

The remainder of the week was much the same, school, work, and a delightful night with Amanda. Each night we learned more about each other although our time was limited due to the late hours I was working.




Amanda Pt. 04



Larry and I did take the GED test and I got the contract review from the lawyer. His conclusion was the same as mine -- it was very fair for both parties with no surprises. I called Mr. Richards to tell him that I would accept his contract. We agreed to meet the Monday after Thanksgiving at my shop to sign and let me have the first five sets of plans.

We moved machinery to the shop on Saturday. The biggest item was the cabinet saw. It was very heavy due to the cast iron base and oversized cast iron top. Each machine was set in place as we unloaded them. Crates and boxes were placed wherever we could find room for them. Mom got me a case of beer and Amanda cooked for the guys that helped.

Sunday I worked on sorting items in the boxes. There were large quantities of consumable supplies like sandpapers, screws, and nails. There were also many small hand and power tools. John, the cabinetmaker that trained me, came by to see my shop and to visit. I explained what my plans were and the part I wanted him to play. He was agreeable to work on a part time basis, overseeing the shop operations when I was away. I found out that he only lived about five miles away.

The second week was much the same, school, work, and nights with my lovely Amanda. The more time we spent together, the more I realized just how much I really loved her.

The third week after we started living together, Amanda had her period. She was remarkably even tempered throughout, which must have been a side benefit of the birth control pill. She mentioned that her cramps were not as bad as they used to be, and she felt much better since she had started taking them.

***

The middle of this week I unknowingly did something that would have a major effect on my life with Amanda. She awakened in the middle of the night to go pee. Since she was having her period, I was horny and having an erotic dream. There I was, flat on my back with an erection, when she returned to bed. She couldn't resist the temptation, and began to lick and kiss my erect penis. When she finally sucked it into her warm, wet mouth, I started mumbling in my sleep.

Amanda was surprised to hear me mumble something about "Mom's pussy". She stopped what she was doing before I awoke. Lying beside me, Amanda was thinking, wanting to know what I was mumbling about. She finally decided that if anyone knew anything, Grandma would. The next morning she behaved normally as we prepared for the day, and was all hugs and kisses as we headed out to work and school, as usual.

When Amanda came in from school, she asked Grandma quietly if she could send Karen on an errand for about an hour or so. Without asking why, Grandma asked Karen to go to the store and pick up some items. After she left, Grandma asked, "Okay, Amanda. What's botherin' you? You're not havin' trouble with Mike are you?"

Amanda replied, "No, I don't think so, but I don't know."

She then told Grandma what had happened the night before. Grandma sat thinking for a few minutes before she asked, "Amanda, how much do you really love Mike? What would change your love for him?"

Amanda said, "I love him more than anything. I've been attracted to him ever since I figured out who he was at school. With what you've told me about him and what I saw watchin' him, I couldn't help fallin' for him. He means so much to me. I just want to know if he's done anything with his mom. I'd want to understand why, if he did. It wouldn't change how I feel about him."

Grandma cautiously told her, "Amanda, I can't prove anything because I haven't actually seen anything, but I'm almost positive he and Patsy have been lovers. Let me explain something to you. Mike lost his dad almost nine years ago. Bill and Patsy were deeply in love with each other and she was devastated when he died. Mike was young enough that he didn't totally understand what had happened, but he almost immediately tried to step into his dad's shoes and be the man for Patsy. He mowed yards and tried to find any kind of odd job he could to make money. Somehow he knew his mother needed the help. He was always talkin' about gettin' a real job so he could help his mother."

She continued, "He started takin' vocational classes and went to work full time at fifteen to try and help her more. I don't know how he was able to work like that and keep his grades up in school. He was behavin' more like his dad each day. Patsy was always talkin' about how much he tried to do and how much he reminded her of Bill. I think she fell in love with him for tryin' to be the man she no longer had. Watchin' 'em together, I could see the signs of a developin' love between them. I figure he fell in love with her because he felt like she needed him. I'm surprised they waited as long as they did."

Amanda was crying. She said, "I never knew the full story. How can I not love that wonderful man? He cares and loves so much."

Grandma said, "Amanda, I'm so happy to hear you say that. Loosing you would devastate Mike. He's an unusual person. Whatever he does, he holds nothin' back. I don't really understand how he was able to give Patsy up, but love does some strange things."

Amanda asked, "Grandma, would you think badly of me if I said I'd be willin' to share him? Think about this, his mom has lost so much. She lost her first love when her husband died. Then, when I met Mike she lost her second love. I feel responsible for that loss."

Grandma said, "Amanda, there's more to the story. Patsy had some severe problems when she was pregnant with Mike. The doctors told her if she ever got pregnant again it'd likely kill her. She had herself fixed so she could never get pregnant again. He's the only child she'll ever have. I think that's another part of the reason she fell in love with him. Now, don't say anything about that."

Amanda said, "Grandma, thank you for tellin' me all this. I need to do some serious thinkin' about the best solution for this situation. I love both of 'em and hate to think about 'em hurtin' over bein' separated because of me."

Grandma asked, "Amanda, you truly deserve your name. I don't know if you know this or not but your name, Amanda, means 'worthy of love'. You care so much about Mike that what he's done hasn't upset you. Very, very few would be able or even want to try and understand what and why they did what they did. Your love for him is more important than what he may have done in the past. He must really love you too."

Amanda said, "Grandma, I love him with all my heart. I know he loves me too. Thinkin' about what you've said, I can tell that Mike still loves his mother too, and I can see that she still loves him. I can see it in the way they look at each other. Sometimes I can see the longing in her eyes. I didn't really understand what I was seein' until you told me what you have. There has to be a solution that's best for all of us."

"How serious were you about sharin'?" Grandma asked. "I admire you for even considerin' that. Think about it for a while. That might be the best solution. When you decide what you want to do let me know. I'll help you any way I can because I still believe you and Mike belong together."

***

Work and school were much the same until the end of the week. The school counselor let Larry and I know that we had passed the GED exam on Friday morning. She commented that the results came back sooner than expected. Larry and I both withdrew from school and left. We went to my shop.

Charles had completed all the wiring. All the machines I had set up were fully functional. We had the office finished inside now, only lacking the desks and chairs. The telephones were working. The septic tank and field lines were installed. My shop was almost ready. Mom and I, with the help of some friends, had moved our furniture to the shop.

Karen was surprised to see us. We told her that we were finished at school and were going in to work early. We could tell Raymond we would be working days next week.

Coming in from the job that evening, Amanda met me at the door with a squeal and a leap into my arms. Karen had told her that we had passed the GED.

"I knew you could do it, Honey," she said. "Now I won't have to face those lonely evenings any more."

After bidding Larry and Karen a good night, Amanda and I went to our bedroom. I needed to clean up and she wanted to help.

As always, showering with Amanda was a delight. She always wanted to get us both soapy and then rub her body all over me. She called it a body wash. Of course, I would do the same to her.

After we finished in the shower and dried off I put on a pair of cut offs and a tee shirt, my usual dress down wear. Amanda had a heavy pink robe she put on with nothing underneath. She'd just finished her period and was feeling very affectionate.

She led me to the kitchen where there was a coconut cream pie waiting on the table. After looking at it, I asked, "Looks good, Sugar. Is it fit to eat?"

She slapped my shoulder before handing me a plate and fork. As I seated myself, Amanda cut the pie and put a piece of it on the plate for me. As she did she asked, "I'm supposed to serve my Lord and Master first, aren't I?"

Amanda and I were now comfortable enough with each other that we were always kidding each other.

"You're gettin' there," I said. "I just haven't got you trained as my footstool, yet."

"That ain't happenin'," she replied.  "You tell 'im, girl," Mom said, as she walked into the kitchen.

"Why not?" I asked. "Every time I sit down, Amanda thinks I'm her cushion."

"But Honey," Amanda asked, "do you think my delicate derriere should be subjected to upholstery when there's a nice warm man around?"

By this time, I'd finished the slice of pie and pushed back from the table. Amanda immediately sat in my lap, and we both shared a kiss and started laughing.

Mom said, "Watching you two reminds me so much of Bill and me when we first married. Mike, your personality is so very much like your dad's. He was always kidding around."

Looking at her, I said, "Mom, Amanda reminds me so very much of you. That's one of the reasons I fell in love with her so soon."

Amanda giggled before saying, "My mom and dad are the same way. They're always playing pranks on each other."

Kissing Amanda again, I said, "Girl, you're definitely a keeper. Not only do you look good, you keep me warm at night and you can cook."

"Oooooohhh! I have advantages," she said, before kissing me.

After the three of us talked for a while, I said, "Amanda, we've got a busy day tomorrow. We need to set up a bed in the shop office and John's comin' out to help me set up a couple of machines. Don't your mom have some weddin' stuff for ya'll to do also?"

"Yes, we do," she said. "Mama says we need to go to the florist and get the flowers ordered. I want pink and white carnations and yellow roses."

"Sugar, why don't you get red roses instead?" I asked. "Red roses are supposed to show love. I think yellow roses show jealousy."

Mom said, "He's right, Amanda."

I said, "Amanda, our wedding is an expression of our love. That's why I suggested the red roses."

Amanda said, "I didn't think about that, Honey. OK, we'll get red roses instead."

My wedding attire was hanging in the closet now. Amanda wouldn't let me see her dress. She'd also told me she was spending Thanksgiving night with her parents and I wouldn't see her until the ceremony the next day.

After cleaning up, we all went to bed. Amanda took off her robe and laid it on the chair beside her side of the bed. I took off my shorts and tee shirt, laying them on the floor by the bed. We both got into the bed and met in the middle. I lay on my back and my darling got on top of me. We began kissing as I rubbed my hands from her shoulders to her magnificently rounded ass.

Amanda was rubbing her wonderful breasts against my chest, rising slightly until only her nipples were tracing patterns on my skin. I hugged her against me as I kissed her again.

After a few minutes, Amanda flipped the covers back and turned around on top of me shoving her pussy in my face. After kissing her protruding clit and licking up through her slit, I asked, "Do you want something?"

Wiggling her beautiful pussy in my face, she said, "You know what I want. Now, get to it."

I wrapped my arms around her delectable thighs and pulled her outer labia more open. I began to lick her from clit to vaginal opening. Amanda sucked the head of my penis into her warm, wet, mouth and began to swirl her tongue around it. She would try to insert the tip of her tongue into my slit and then resume the swirl.

I sucked her swollen clit into my mouth and began flicking it with my tongue. I pushed the forefinger of my left hand into her vagina and began rubbing in and out along the front wall feeling for that magic spot. She was beginning to hump her hips.

Amanda spread my thighs open to gain better access to my balls while stroking and sucking my penis.

I changed hands with the finger in her vagina. My wet finger was moved to her anus. As I began to push past her sphincter, Amanda did the same to me. As her finger pushed into me I felt my balls draw up. She was beginning to thrust her hips harder as one finger entered her rectum and I massaged that magic spot in her vagina with another.

We both climaxed almost simultaneously. I was shooting cum into Amanda's magical mouth while she was flooding my face with her cum.

After we came down from our orgasmic highs, Amanda turned around and lay on top of me again. We each still had the others cum in our mouths when we kissed deeply. We shared what was in our mouths with each other during the kiss.

After we broke the kiss and swallowed what we'd exchanged, we began to lick each other's face clean.

I asked Amanda, "Sugar, do you think we should get some sleep? I need to be up early tomorrow."

Looking at the clock, she replied, "You're probably right, Honey. Why don't we pick this back up tomorrow night?"

Kissing her again, I said, "Let's rinse off in the shower first."

We got up and headed for the bathroom. Amanda said, "Honey, I've gotta pee."

"You go ahead while I get the water adjusted in the shower," I said.

Turning the water on and adjusting the temperature, we quickly showered. Turning the water off and getting out, we dried each other and headed back to bed.

After I lay on my back, Amanda got on top of me again and said, "Honey, I never thought you wanted to know about my period. That can be an embarrassing time for a girl. You showed interest, and didn't even mind driving to the store to get me a box of pads because I was almost out. That's one more reason I love you so much."

Wrapping my arms around her I said, "Sugar, I want us to be open with each other. If there's something about me you want to know, ask. If there's something you don't like, tell me. I want to know as much as possible about you. Knowing your likes and dislikes will help me please you better. I believe the openness will make us have a much stronger marriage. What do you think?"

"Honey, I think you're right," she said. "I want to know all I can about you too. I already know a lot about you, but I want to know everything. Like you, I think it'll make us stronger."

Pausing for a minute, Amanda said, "Honey, don't get mad about this because it's not that important. I had a guy at college that wanted to take me out. He kept comin' back even after I told him no. He didn't give up 'til I showed him my ring and said I was gonna tell you. He hasn't bothered me since."

"I'm glad you told me, Sugar," I said. "I'm not worried about you. I do want you to let me know if it happens again, though. OK?"

"OK. I'll tell you," she said.

With that the conversation changed to whispered endearments and kisses until we drifted off to sleep.

***

Waking with Amanda in my arms was one of life's greatest delights. I kissed her awake.

"Mornin' Honey," she mumbled. "Let me up, so I can start the coffee."

Amanda got up and put her robe on before leaving the bedroom. I got up and put my shorts on before heading to the bathroom to shave.

After finishing my business, I put on my tee shirt and headed for the kitchen. Grandma and Mom were both up and in the kitchen with Amanda. Coffee was made and Amanda was mixing her wonderful biscuits. Mom was cooking sausage this morning to go with the scrambled eggs she had ready to cook. I got a cup of coffee, kissed Amanda, Mom, and Grandma before I sat at the table and lit a cigarette. Looking out the window, I could see it was going to be a nice day.

Grandma asked about my school. I explained about the GED test I had taken. When I told her that test meant I was finished with high school, she asked, "Does this mean you don't have to work so late at night now?"

"Yes Ma'am," I said. "That's exactly what it means. I'll be home in the evenings now. In fact, I'm gonna start workin' in the shop after Thanksgiving, so I'll be here most days too."

"I'm really glad to hear that," she said. "I've always liked having you around."

Amanda put the biscuits in the oven and went to get dressed. Mom had finished the sausage and was scrambling the eggs. I got up and set the table. I could visualize Amanda and I eating at this kitchen table every morning.

We had everything on the table by the time Amanda returned. We talked about our plans for the day as we ate. Grandma suggested that we set up two beds in the shop office and put Junior's family there over Thanksgiving. I was reluctant but she insisted. Once we finished and cleaned up we went our separate ways. Grandma went to the living room. She was going to call Junior. Amanda and I went to the shop, and Mom went into town to meet with the realtor.

Amanda and I opened the room where Mom's furniture was stored. We carried the two beds into the office area and set them up. Amanda said we would bring the sheets and blankets down later. She was leaving to go to her mom's as John came in the shop. I introduced him to Amanda, explaining that she had to leave to go to her mom's house.

John and I worked on setting up the band saw and the jointer. They were the last two major machines we had to set up. Once we were finished we discussed material storage and flow through the shop. I had the materials on hand so we started building a 4'x 16' assembly table. I would need this table for assembling casework and face frames. We were very careful to ensure that everything was flat, level, and square, and proofed against warping.

We were just finishing the table frame when Amanda came back. She told me that I was invited to dinner with her parents. John was about ready to call it a day, so we shut down and closed up the shop. I needed to clean up and change clothes before going to Charles and Maggie's. Amanda and I headed for the shower.

Mom stopped me to tell me that the realtor seemed to think that we would get a serious offer on the house within the next week. That was good news.

Amanda and I played a little while showering; enough to get each other aroused but not enough for climax. Amanda told me that she fully intended to get what she wanted, later that night. When I handed her the box of sanitary napkins, asking if she wanted to keep her panties dry, she started laughing her head off.

As we dressed, Amanda did everything she could think of to tease and arouse me. She wanted me to put her stockings on her legs with her aroused, spread pussy in my face. Then she wanted me to put her bra on and adjust her breasts in the cups. That almost backfired on her when I started tweaking her nipples. Next she wanted me to pull the panties up her legs so I could smell her arousal again. I was able to get one lick on her clit and kiss her mound before she pushed me away, telling me to get dressed.

Amanda and I talked with Mom and Grandma briefly before we left for our dinner with Charles and Maggie. We got in Amanda's car for the drive over. On the way, she said, "Honey, I had so much fun getting dressed with you tonight. We'll have to do that again."




Amanda Pt. 04



I replied, "Yeah, Sugar, it was a lot of fun. It'll be even more fun takin' it off of you later tonight."

"Oooooohhhhhhhhh!" she said. "I hadn't thought of that." Yeah, right!

Pulling her skirt up, Amanda dipped two fingers into her wetness and stuck them in my mouth. "There's a reward for that idea," she said.

We got out of the car at Charles and Maggie's. They invited us in. Charles shook my hand and Maggie hugged me and kissed my cheek. We were all seated in the living room for a brief visit before dinner. They were both pleased that I was finished with school and that Amanda appeared to be so happy. Charles and I started talking about putting a cattle guard in the fence that separated our properties and building a drive between them. He had a larger tractor than I did with a loader on the front. There was also a small deposit of iron ore gravel on his farm that would make a good road base.

While we were talking road, Amanda and Maggie'd gone to the kitchen to put dinner on the table. We were called to dinner very shortly when Amanda came in and sat in my lap.

Charles asked, "Amanda, why'd you sit in his lap if he needs to get up?"

Pointing at me, she said, "Ask him."

Before Charles could say anything, I said, "I was informed last night, that her 'delicate derriere' should not be subjected to upholstery when a warm man was around."

Charles started laughing uproariously before he looked at me, saying, "Son, you're in deep trouble."

Maggie had overheard the exchange. She looked at Amanda and asked, "You didn't really say that did you?"

Amanda replied, "Yeah, Mama, I did. He told ME that he'd keep ME around because I could cook and I kept him warm at night."

Charles looked at Maggie, saying, "Does this remind you of anyone, Dear?"

Maggie kissed Charles before saying, "It sure does. They sound a lot like we do."

Maggie's dinner was delicious. She'd cooked a pork roast with sweet potatoes and onion. I could easily see where Amanda's culinary skills came from. I was very complimentary about the meal.

After dinner we all gathered in the living room to discuss our upcoming wedding. Of the forty-five invitations Amanda had mailed, forty had responded. We were as ready as we could be.

I suggested a dinner for both families after the reception. Since we had the community center reserved for the day, I thought we might as well take advantage of it. We discussed a possible menu. The decision was made to do a barbecue with brisket, beans, and potato salad. I offered to pay for the briskets, but Charles refused. He and Maggie insisted on furnishing the meal as part of the wedding. Amanda and I gratefully accepted.

Amanda and I returned home after a very nice visit with her parents. When we walked in Mom and Grandma were waiting for us. We told them of the plans for the family dinner after the wedding, which pleased them. Grandma told us about her call to Junior earlier in the day.

"Mike, he insisted that you and Amanda stay here in your home," she said. "Since you have the office finished inside and have a bathroom available, he says they'll be very comfortable there. He also said to tell you he wants to talk to you about buying his land. He wouldn't tell me anything, but I think he wants you to have it now."

I thought for a minute before saying, "I'll really have to think about what he offers. I've got to buy a box trailer for the shop. I'll need it to haul cabinets in bad weather. I've also got to have some cash in reserve to operate on. It'll take a couple of months for the contract to start really generating income and it doesn't start 'til the first of the year. Things are gonna have to be tight for a while, because I don't want any debt if I can help it."

Looking at Amanda, I said, "My bookkeeper and I need to look at my finances. I'll need to get my bank statements so we know where I am. I've spent a lot recently."

Mom said, "Mike, your bank statements are boxed in the storage room. I think the box is on your desk in there."

Amanda said, "Honey, I've got the books in the back of my car. I picked them up a week ago. One of the first things you need to do is open your business bank account. I'll need the starting balance to open your books with. Anything you buy for a job or the shop I'll need the receipts for. You'll need to order checks to make payroll and pay the bills when they come in."

I said, "We'll get the bank statements in the morning and start settin' things up. Right now it's gettin' late."

We all exchanged good night hugs and kisses. Amanda and I went to our bedroom. Once I had the door closed, she turned to face me and said, "OK, Honey. It's time for you to take my clothes off. I want what you owe me, and I'm gonna get it."

Opening the closet door, I got hangers for her blouse and skirt. Unbuttoning her blouse, I slipped it off her shoulders and placed it on the hanger. Next, I unbuttoned and unzipped her skirt and lowered it so she could step out of it. Clipping it to the hanger, I hung her skirt and blouse in the closet. Amanda turned so I could unfasten her bra and remove it. She allowed me to gently massage her breasts, briefly. Turning again, I slipped her shoes off. I put them on the shoe rack in the closet.

Kneeling in front of Amanda, I slid her panties down her stocking clad legs. I turned them so the crotch was up and licked the wet fabric, saying, "Delicious, just like the rest of you."

Amanda said, "Stand up and take your boots off."

I did as requested. Amanda unfastened my belt and unsnapped and unzipped my jeans. She pulled the shirttails from my jeans and unsnapped the front of the shirt. Next, she unsnapped the cuffs of the sleeves and removed the shirt, laying it on the foot of the bed. She then knelt and pulled my jeans down and off my legs. My socks were the next items to go. Finally, she pulled my jockeys down and off. She briefly sucked the end of my penis into her mouth and swirled her tongue around the corona.

Amanda stood and came into my arms. We hugged and kissed. My penis left a trail of pre cum as it slid across her lower abdomen when our pelvises came together. We eventually separated. I guided Amanda over to the chair on her side of the bed. I seated her with her hips at the front of the seat. Kneeling, I spread her legs and put her feet on my shoulders.

Amanda's beautiful pussy was perfectly presented for me to feast on. I licked her from perineum to clit and back before pushing my tongue as deeply as possible into her vagina. As I thrust my tongue in and out of her, Amanda began to moan softly. Looking up, I could see that she was cupping her breasts and twisting her nipples. I moved up and sucked on her clit. I was flicking it with my tongue and nipping it lightly with my teeth. Amanda's vagina was producing fluids copiously enough it was running down over her anus. I pushed a finger into her vagina searching for the magic spot and began to push another finger into her back portal.

Amanda was moaning louder as her arousal reached a crescendo. She was humping her hips when the orgasm took her. Her feet flew off my shoulders as her legs went rigid as she screamed and shuddered. She grabbed my head, pulling it into her pussy as her thighs clamped the sides of my head. Fluid flooded from her vagina over her magnificent ass and dripped onto the floor.

As Amanda came down from her high, she pushed my head away as she groaned, "Enough. Enough Honey. I'm too sensitive."

I spread her thighs enough to begin licking the flood from her. Amanda was limp except for occasional aftershock shudders.

I gently put her feet on the floor and got up. The first order of business was to pull the covers down on the bed. I picked Amanda up and laid her in bed and pulled the cover up over her. Going to the bathroom I got a damp washcloth and towel to clean the floor and chair. After putting the towel and washcloth in the hamper, I hung my shirt and jeans in the closet.

Uncovering Amanda, I unclipped the garter straps from her stockings and rolled them down her satin smooth legs. Next I unfastened her garter belt and lifted her enough to remove it from under her. I covered Amanda again and put her stockings and garter belt on the dresser.

Amanda was beginning to recover when I got into bed with her. She moved to me as I moved to her. I kissed her gently and asked, "Was that what you wanted, Sugar?"

She hugged me and kissed me before saying, "Partly. I still want you in me. Honey, I want your big, hard dick to fill my pussy."

I moved on top of her as she spread her legs. I moved up until I felt my penis touch her vulva. Amanda reached down to guide me in as she wrapped her legs around me. I pushed forward and slowly entered her vagina. She was incredibly wet and warm. I kept pushing in until I felt my balls come to rest on her. Amanda wrapped her arms around me, pulling me down against her so we could share a kiss.

After the kiss, she said, "You feel so good in me, Honey. I wish I could keep you there permanently."

I said, "Amanda, being in your pussy is the greatest feeling in my life. How can I ever thank you for accepting me?"

Amanda kissed me again and said, "Just keep making me cum like that last one. I've never cum like that before."

I laughed softly before saying, "Sugar, you made a big mess. You flooded the chair, the floor, and me. I had to get a towel and damp washcloth to clean up. It looked like you really enjoyed it."

"I sure did," she said. "Now, I want to enjoy that big dick pumpin' in my pussy. You're in there, now work that thing."

I began to slowly thrust in and out of her vagina. Amanda was moving her hips in a circular motion and thrusting up to meet my downward thrusts. The feeling of her tight, wet, warm vagina swallowing me on each downward thrust was incredible. Amanda's upper body was beginning to flush, a sign of her rising arousal.

I was moving in and out of her at a faster pace. Amanda was using her legs to pull me into her harder. She surprised me when she said, "Fuck me. Fuck meeeee! Fuck me harder, Honey!"

I had never heard Amanda say anything like that before. It did what she wanted as it increased my arousal. I was rapidly approaching a climax.

Amanda was still moaning softly as she groaned out, "Fffuuuuccckkk mmeeeeeee! Fill my pussy with your cum! Cum in meeeee!"

I thrust as deeply into her vagina as I could when I began to cum. As I was firing shot after shot of cum into Amanda, she reached orgasm again. Her vagina tightened around me even more as she tried to pull my entire body into her pussy. Her kegel muscles felt like they were milking my penis.

Amanda finally began to relax and go limp. I finally collapsed on top of her. We lay there exchanging kisses until I could feel my erection begin to subside.

"We'd better get up," I said. "If we don't we're gonna have a big wet spot on our bed."

I rolled onto my back and began working to the side of the bed. Amanda lay on top of me as I moved. Once there, I worked my hips to the edge of the bed and started to sit up. Amanda was trying to keep me in her vagina. As I rose she wrapped her arms and legs around me again. I was holding her up with her hips as I walked to the bathroom.

Amanda said, "Honey, I need to pee."

I stepped into the shower and let her legs down. When I came out of her cum dripped onto the shower floor. "Go here or on the toilet," I said. "Don't matter much to me 'cause it's all gonna wash down the drain anyway."

She stepped over to the toilet while I turned the shower on. When finished, she got in the shower saying, "I was kinda surprised when you let me drip out in the shower. Why'd you do that?"

"Sugar, I knew we were gonna shower," I said. "It washed down the drain. It's not a big deal. It's the same if you pee in the shower. It's water and gets washed down the same drain the toilet uses."

She said, "I didn't know what you'd think. I'm glad you didn't get upset about it."

"Sugar, you surprised me too," I said. "I've never heard you say a bad word before."

Amanda started giggling and said, "You musta liked it. You gave me exactly what I was wantin'."

"Yeah," I said. "It really turned me on to hear you talkin' like that. Sugar, I think that's somethin' we should keep between us. I wouldn't want us talkin' like that around other people."

"Honey, you're right," she said. "Our personal lives are ours, not anyone else's."

We drifted into whispered endearments and shared kisses until we dozed off.

I woke the next morning to find Amanda gone. I didn't find her in the bathroom so I put on a pair of jeans and tee shirt before heading for the kitchen. I found Amanda and Mom sitting together at the table, enjoying their morning coffee and cigarettes. As I walked in Mom was saying, . . . "need to keep the noise down some."

Amanda saw me in the door and got up to pour my coffee. As she did, I located her pack of cigarettes, on the table, and lit one. When I sat, she immediately sat in my lap and kissed me, just as I was about to exhale that first drag. I was quite surprised when I felt her gently inhale, taking the smoke from me into her own lungs. Then, smiling and giving me a little wink, she slowly exhaled through her mouth and nose while saying, "Good morning, Honey."

Her little stunt had aroused me, and she knew it, too, based on the way she subtly wriggled her ass on my lap, but that was a matter best dealt with in private, I figured.

"What were ya'll talkin' about?" I asked. "What noise?"

Mom said, "The noise ya'll were makin' last night. I'm concerned about disturbin' Grandma. She needs her rest."

"I had a very restful night, thank you," Grandma said, as she entered the kitchen. Looking at Mom, Grandma said gently, "Patsy, leave these kids alone. They're just doin' what comes natural. Listenin' to them last night brought back a lot of good memories for me. I had very pleasant dreams about Daddy and me in our younger days."

Mom blushed slightly as she said, "Yeah, I had some nice dreams of Mmm, my own too."

I caught Mom's "Mmm". She saw me looking at her and blushed slightly when realized I had caught her almost mistake.

Amanda started to get up when Grandma said, "Girl, keep your seat. I'll get my coffee and join ya'll."

After she was seated, she looked at Amanda and me and said, "You two youngsters have made me feel so much better. I now know I did the right thing by getting you two together. Just watching how you behave around each other, I can tell how right you are for each other. I can feel the love you have for each other. Whatever you do, don't lose what you have now. Keep it and you'll always love each other."

After breakfast and the clean up, Amanda and I went to the shop in search of the bank statements. The box was just where Mom remembered it being. As we spread papers across the desktop, Amanda started giggling.

"What's so funny," I asked.

"I'm finally gonna find out just how much money you have," she replied.

We finally had the statements laid out in consecutive order. I was finally opening my financial life to someone else.

Amanda started with the oldest statements first. She was making notes as she went. After finishing her look through my checking account records, she asked, "You don't have any debt do you? All I see here are checks written to lumberyards, grocery stores, hardware stores, and gas stations."

"You're right," I said. "I don't believe in debt. If I can't afford it I don't buy it."

Amanda said, "Honey, you have business and personal mixed here. A lot of this can be deducted from your taxes as business expense. That will save you a lot of money each year."

"Amanda, that's why I wanted to hire you as a bookkeeper and accountant," I said. "You're gonna have to show me how to do all this."

"Mike, how is your business organized?" she asked. "That can really affect your taxes and what you can deduct."

"Sugar, I'm having it organized as a partnership between us both," I told her. "I insisted on doing it that way even though the lawyer tried to talk me out of it. He said he was trying to protect me but I wanted to protect you."

She said, "Honey, what if things don't work out between us?"

"Amanda, I love you," I said. "I can't ever see that there'll ever be a problem between us. You are the greatest thing that's ever happened or will ever happen to me. The only protection I need is from you when you really get aroused like you did last night. It was all I could do to keep up with you."

I pulled her into a tight hug and kissed her.

"As much as I'd like to continue this, we need to get back to business," she said. "Honey, I need to talk to Mama. I think we need to talk to a CPA about your business. They can advise us on how to set up your accounting for the best tax advantages. I can keep the books, keep the bills paid, and figure the payroll for employees for you. You need the CPA to figure your business taxes because that gets very complex."

"Amanda, you're in charge of making an appointment with a CPA," I said. "I'll go with your recommendation." Digging into the box and finding what I was after, I asked, "What about my savings? Do you need to see this?"

She took my savings passbook and looked through it. Amanda said, "Mike, you're in better financial shape than you know. With what's here and what I saw in your checking, you still have enough cash to cover our livin' expenses for about three months. That's includin' paying the utilities on the house and buyin' groceries to feed us."

"Sugar, you're gonna have a fight with Mom on that," I said. "She insists on payin' for groceries and the utilities. I've already lost that fight."

"I remember your mom sayin' that," Amanda said.

"Amanda, let's go talk to Mom for a minute," I said.

We locked up and walked back to the house. Mom was in the kitchen with Grandma when we came in the house. She had just put a beef stew on to cook.

"Mom, Amanda and I need to talk with you for a few minutes," I said.

Mom asked, "Where do you want to talk?"

I said, "Mom, here at the kitchen table is fine. Grandma, you can stay also. We wanted to ask about the money you have saved. Amanda says we need to get our business account opened up and talk to a CPA. After looking at my checking and savings, Amanda thinks I still have enough cash to carry the house expenses for about three months. That includes the utilities and groceries."

Mom said, "Mike, I'm able to take care of those."

Amanda said, "Mama Davidson, Mike and I need to be paying our share. We insist that you let us help."

"We'll talk about that later," Mom said. "Now, what exactly is it you need, Mike?"

"Mom, I'm gonna need enough to cover my shop operatin' costs, buy some materials, and make payroll for a couple of months until the contract starts to pay off. I've got some smaller jobs to do while we're gettin' everything set up and runnin' like it should. I'm just tryin' to keep from runnin' short."

We discussed what I thought my operating expenses would be. Mom said there was enough there to cover those expenses for a three to four month period. We agreed to meet at the bank Wednesday afternoon when Amanda got in from school.

Amanda said, "Honey, why don't you set up two business accounts? Use one for operating expenses and the other for payroll."

Mom said, "Mike, that's what most businesses do. They have a general operating account and transfer money to a payroll account as needed. That's a very good idea, Amanda. Now, who'll be able to draw on the accounts?"

"Mom, I want Amanda and me to both be able to draw on the accounts," I said. "If I can, I'd like to require two signatures on any check over a specified amount, say about a hundred fifty dollars. What do you think, Amanda?"

"Honey, I was going to suggest that," she said. "I'll come to the shop each afternoon to check the bills that come in and pay what needs to be paid."




Amanda Pt. 05



Author's Note -- This part picks up the morning following Mike and Amanda's wedding. There is a major surprise for Mike here and some hints of things to come. I owe you readers an apology for taking so long getting this posted. The plot took an unexpected twist and the holidays intervened, which took much time away from the story. In addition I was working on editing and reposting earlier parts of this story. I owe a major tip of the hat to Ciguardian for his input. His comments and suggestions have added immensely to the plot and overall character development. Thank you so very much. Enjoy and please vote.

Part 5 -- Welcome to Married Life and a Surprise

Awakening the next morning with my lovely Amanda in my arms was a truly wonderful experience. Brushing the hair from her face with my fingertips, I gently kissed her. It took the third kiss before she began to awaken.

When she finally opened her eyes, Amanda immediately smiled.

"Good morning, Mr. Davidson," she said softly, following her greeting with a gentle, yet passionate kiss.

"Good morning to you, too, Mrs. Davidson. You look lovely, this fine mornin'," I replied once my lips were free to speak. Of course, her kiss had felt and tasted so good that I just had to kiss her again. She smiled at me again, as I pulled my lips away, and I knew that it was a good day to be alive.

"I could stay here all day with you, like this," she told me softly, "but I need to pee."

"Yeah, we'd better get up and shower," I nodded.

Sitting up and stretching the kinks out of our bodies, we slid out of bed and headed for the bathroom. Amanda used the toilet while I adjusted the water in the shower. Our joint shower was the same delightful experience we'd enjoyed before. I washed her body, and she washed mine, and we both spent some time paying special attention to certain body parts on the other, but we really didn't have the time.

"I'd sure love to hang out here awhile and pleasure you," I told my new bride, "but we've got a day ahead of us -- and I reckon if we take much longer showin' up in the kitchen, folks'll be knockin' on the door to roust us out."

Amanda was rinsing me off, at the moment, paying a little more attention to my dick than was necessary to get the soap off it. She smiled and then slid her body down along mine until she was about eye-level with it. Opening her mouth, she took it inside, gave it one long slurp, and then pulled herself to her feet again.

"Promissory note, husband!" she chuckled. "To be paid in full sometime after sundown."

I leaned forward and took one of her nipples between my lips, sucking on it gently, while slipping a finger up inside her and twirling it around.

"What was that, husband?" she asked me, as I stood straight again.

"Well, y'all didn't say whether that promissory note was supposed to be from you or me, so I guess that'd be my agreement to either collect in full, or pay in full, whichever the case may be, Mrs. Davidson!" I laughed. "Now, we best get movin', 'fore the coffee gets cold!"

We finished rinsing and then gently toweled each other dry, and I combed Amanda's hair out before we dressed. She chose a long-sleeved blouse and a wrap-around denim skirt, while I slipped into my normal jeans and shirt -- a long-sleeved one, this time. I was ready to head for the porch, for a smoke, and wasn't in the mood to go digging a coat out in order to deal with the morning's chill.

Amanda was still finishing dressing and fussing with her hair when I headed for the kitchen. As I walked into the room, I found Grandma and Mom both seated at the table. I grabbed a pair of mugs from the cabinet and poured coffee for both Amanda and me, and took a seat at the table just as she showed up. She smiled, blushing somewhat, at Mom and Grandma, and took her usual place in my lap, arm draped across my shoulders. We looked across the table as Mom and Grandma both gave us the once-over.

"Well, Patsy, it looks like they survived the night," Grandma chuckled.

"Yep; I reckon' they did," Mom nodded, smiling. "And they don't either of 'em look any the worse for wear."

Amanda and I exchanged amused glances. She rolled her eyes, giving me a quick squeeze on my shoulder. I caught on and rolled my eyes, as well.

"Well, Honey," she sighed theatrically, "Looks like we'll be hearin' that line all day, don't it?"

"I guess you're right," I answered.

"What do you youngsters want for breakfast? Patsy and I were just talkin' about that before ya'll came in. The way them mattress springs was squeakin', last night, y'all must've burned up a lot of energy. I bet you're both starved!"

I debated responding to Grandma's gentle barb, for a moment, and decided not to let her get the best of me -- at least, this once.

"Amanda and I bought groceries the other day," I replied. "I know we bought some green pepper, cheese, onion, and ham..."

"I know what you're thinkin'," Mom interrupted. "Let me get the griddle out."

"Sugar," I addressed my bride, "would you mind makin' a double batch of your biscuits?"

"Sure," she said, as she slid off of my lap.

I got busy chopping vegetables while Mom got the griddle out and started grating cheese. Grandma poured the coffee into another pot to keep hot on the stove and started another pot brewing. That was a smart thing, since it was only a few minutes later that we heard Junior, Kathy, and the girls coming onto the back porch. Junior and Kathy would be wanting coffee, definitely. I didn't know if the girls had started drinking it, yet. As they came in through the kitchen, Grandma had coffee poured for Junior and Kathy.

I saw my uncle look at Amanda and me, and then at his wife, and I figured I'd head both of 'em off at the pass.

"Yep, we survived the night," I informed them.

"How did you know what we were going to say?" Kathy asked me, laughing.

"We've already heard it," I said.

Junior laughed, then asked me, "What can we do to help with breakfast?"

"Well, Amanda's makin' biscuits and Mom and I are gettin' ready to cook omelets to order, plus sausage and bacon. We could use some eggs cracked, though."

Junior got a large bowl out of a cabinet and cracked a dozen or so eggs into it, then scrambled them up with a whisk. I was finished with my part of the prep, as was Mom, and Amanda had just put the biscuits into the oven.

"The biscuits'll be out in about fifteen minutes," she told us, glancing at her watch. "I figure we ought to start the rest of the food when they're halfway done."

"That's about enough time to go grab a smoke," I said, grabbing my mug and heading for the porch.

"Wait for me, husband!" Amanda called after me, shucking out of her apron and grabbing her own coffee.

I waited long enough to hold the door, for her, and then proceeded to set my mug on the porch-rail while I lit a cigarette for each of us. Mom came out right behind Amanda, already pulling a cigarette out of her pack. Junior followed Mom, with Kathy on his heels, though that was no surprise. What did surprise me, though, was the fact that sixteen-year-old Laura trailed along in her mother's wake. I watched, out of the corner of my eye, as Kathy shook two cigarettes from her pack, handed one to her daughter, and then extended a light.

"I didn't know you smoked, Laura," I commented.

"Well, not all that much, Mike," she blushed prettily. "Mama's pretty strict about the number I can have, per day."

"Laura came to me, a few days before she turned sixteen, and asked me if she could try a cigarette," Kathy explained, blushing and looking just a trifle uncomfortable, herself. "She told me that a couple of her girlfriends had started, and were after her to try one with them. I talked it over with her daddy, and we finally figured that, if she wanted to smoke, she'd try it one way or another, and we'd sooner not have her sneakin' around -- or, worse, maybe getting' in with the wrong crowd. We figured that, if she could just as easily smoke at home, we could at least know she wasn't getting' into any trouble."

"Right now, we let her have one in the morning, one after she gets home from school, and one or two more in the evening," Junior added. "That way, hopefully, she won't be gettin' so she's wantin' one while she's at school."

"Will we get to see your new cabinet shop today, Mike?" Laura asked, and I figured it was meant to try and move the conversation away from having her at the center.

"Sure thing, Laura," I told her. "We'd already planned a tour for a little later in the morning, after we get cleaned up from breakfast."

"You've gone through a lot of changes in the last couple months, Mike," Kathy commented. "Openin' your own business, takin' over the farm, and getting' married. Has your head stopped spinnin', yet?"

"Just about, Aunt Kathy," I laughed. "Of course, every time it looks like it's about to hit a dead stop, this little lady here - " I draped my arm over my wife's shoulders -- "gives me a kiss and sends it spinnin' like a top, again."

Amanda blushed, looking up at me, and then tried to cover her silly grin by taking another drag from her cigarette. I guess the brief moment gave her time to think of something to say, because she glanced at me again, and then looked at the others.

"I have to keep his head spinnin'," she chuckled. "If I let it stop, he just might figure out what I'm up to, and turn the tables on me."

"I'd ask what it is that you're up to," Mom laughed, "but I figure we're all safer not knowin'."

"That, you are, Mama Davidson," Amanda nodded, grinning from ear to ear.

She took the last puff from her cigarette, stubbed it out in the ashtray that we kept on the porch, and glanced at her watch.

"Perfect timing," she smiled. "The biscuits will be done in about seven minutes, so we ought to get the rest of breakfast on the stove. That way, we'll have fresh, piping hot biscuits to eat, along with the omelets."

We all trooped back into the house, and those of us with cooking tasks grabbed our aprons and set to work.

"There's a stack of small bowls on the counter," I informed everyone. "Take a bowl, fill it with the ingredients you want, and hang onto it. I'll be cooking omelets to order. For them that wants it, there should be a big jar of homemade hot sauce in the fridge."

Mom cooked the bacon and the sausage in two skillets, while I took over two burners with the griddle that was so perfect for omelets. The way I cooked an omelet was to spread the eggs into a square on the griddle, placing the filling ingredients in a row across the center. As the eggs set, I'd fold them over the center allowing it to cook and then turning once to cook the other side before putting it on the plate. The secret is having a restaurant type griddle spatula. With the griddle, I could cook two at the same time.

At first, I thought that Mom was cooking an awfully large batch of sausage, but then I noticed that she had some other ingredients sitting on the counter, ready to make some sausage gravy to go with the biscuits, if we wanted.

With lots of hands helping the task along, it took a relatively few minutes to provide everyone with a plate full of delicious food, and we gathered at the table to eat. During the meal, talk naturally turned to the coming Christmas holiday.

"Christmas Day falls on a Sunday, this year, so the 'observed' Christmas holiday would be a Monday," Amanda noted. "Mike and I will have the shop closed, though he might go putter around in it for a few hours, and all our guys'll get their first paid holiday."

"So, where do we want to get together, this year?" Kathy asked. "Do y'all want to host, or do you want to come down to our place?"

"Actually, I'm thinking that we really ought to host, this year," Mom offered, "even though we hosted last Christmas. I don't think we ought to put Grandma through the hassle of the drive and all."

"I'm glad you offered, Patsy," Junior said. "I was thinkin' along the same lines, but I didn't want to 'volunteer' y'all to go to all the trouble."

"Are you folks okay, with the current sleeping arrangements?" Amanda asked.

"Yeah," Junior nodded, blatantly ignoring his wife's barely-hidden scowl. "We'll be just fine sleepin' out in the shop again. After all, it's only for Christmas Eve and Christmas night."

"Then Amanda and I will wait until after Christmas to start getting' the office area ready to actually be a workin' office," I told him. "A couple days during the week after Christmas to move things around and get it ready, and it'll be ready to open the first of the New Year."

"We're all so busy makin' plans for the holiday, that we're forgettin' the newest member of the family," Mom said, chasing a bit of sausage onto her fork with a piece of biscuit. "Amanda, honey, when does your family do their openin' gifts and such?"

"We usually have a little bit more 'special' dinner, on Christmas Eve, and then exchange our gifts, Mama Davidson. Why do you ask?"

"Well, I figured that scatter-brained husband of yours hadn't asked, yet, so I ought to at least help him find out what his schedule is gonna be. Mike, looks like you're gonna be dividin' your Christmas Eve between two houses, this year."

"I reckon so, Mom," I grinned. "Wouldn't want to disappoint the news by keepin' their daughter away from their family get-together."

""Maybe you hadn't considered it, yet, son, but that family is just as much yours, now, as our family is Amanda's." Mom reminded me.

"Which means we have some more Christmas shoppin' to do, in the next few weeks, husband," Amanda added.

"Speakin' of Christmas shoppin, Amanda," Junior said, pushing his chair back from the table, "I guess we ought to find out some things about you, to give us some ideas for presents."

Well, I'm not even going to try and recount the chatter that ensued at the table for the next few minutes, as everyone but me bombarded my wife with questions on the kinds of books and music she liked, the styles of clothing she preferred -- both dress-up and casual -- her favorite colors to wear, and her sizes for everything from boots clean down to unmentionables. Just take it from me, I was glad I'd already snooped at clothing sizes in our closet, and I had a pretty fair idea of the colors she preferred in clothing, and already had my eye on a couple items at one of the shops in town. I'd never have gotten a word in, edgewise!

I will say this, though, it did my heart good to see my new bride burstin' with happiness to be so quickly included as a member of the family.

After breakfast was finished and cleaned up, Amanda and I went to open the shop. We wanted to do a quick walk-through, to check everything, before our guests arrived. I checked and locked the doors that led into the office and the room where Mom's furniture was stored. About the time we finished, Amanda's family arrived. Meeting the group outside, I explained that we had work in progress in the shop. After cautioning them about safety, Amanda and I escorted them in.

Starting at the rear, in the materials storage area, I told them about the various lumbers and plywoods used in our cabinets. Amanda and I led the group through the shop following the material progression from machine to machine. Questions were asked about how the machines and tools were used. Amanda was able to answer some, and I answered the rest.

When we gathered around the assembly table, I said, "You can see that we're using fast production methods to build custom cabinets. All our work is custom built to fit the customer's situation. We measure the site carefully and build to fit."

Maggie interrupted to say, "You were supposed to measure my kitchen."

Amanda, Charles, and I began to laugh. Maggie was becoming slightly upset, thinking we were laughing at her.

I took her hand and pulled her beside me, saying, "My dear, sweet, new, mother, the parts and pieces you've been lookin' at are your new cabinets. We'll assemble them this comin' week and install them the week after."

Maggie's eyes went fried-egg round, and her mouth gaped wide open, and I smiled.

"Mike, less than a day in the family and you've already accomplished the impossible," Charles laughed. "You've shut Maggie up."

Everyone erupted in laughter at that, and Maggie was quick to wrap me in a hug and kiss both my cheeks.

"I can't believe it. I'm lookin' at my new cabinets. Thank you, Mike. Thank you. How much do I owe you?"

"Mama Reynolds," I told her, as Amanda and I surrounded her in a three-person hug, "your cabinets are already paid for. They were paid for when your daughter became my wife. Charles has your new countertops on order, down at the lumberyard. I even think you're getting a new sink and a dishwasher all at the same time."

Maggie hugged and kissed Amanda and me both, before running to Charles and smothering him with kisses.

"Charles," I asked my new father, "What do you think about a woman that would exchange her only child for a new kitchen?"

The laughter started again. Maggie blushed heavily before turning and starting toward me, but Amanda put herself in between us.

"Mama, who can't take a joke? You've been had. Mike and Dad have been plannin' this for the past couple of months."

Maggie stopped a couple steps short of her daughter, took a deep breath, and seemed to calm down. I guess I don't have to tell you, I was mighty glad, of that!

"I guess ya'll got me," she said at last, and then began to laugh along with the rest of us.

"Maggie, I fully intended for your cabinets to be the first ones built in my shop, but it didn't work out," I told her. "I had a couple of other jobs already scheduled, and I couldn't change 'em. You'll have a new kitchen before Christmas."

Other than joining in with us in the laughter, Fred Harrison -- Maggie's brother -- had been pretty quiet, up to this point, but now he raised an excellent question.

"You aren't overloaded, are you?"

"If you're referring to debt owed by the company, Uncle Fred, I can tell you that the only debt we have currently is for the new box trailer. Everything else that you've seen here today is paid for. My husband doesn't believe in debt, and tries to avoid it whenever possible. He's had some very good fortune in finding tools at good prices, and we've had some excellent help in gettin' our shop finished. It was all paid for as the work was done."

"You talk as though you were a partner in the business."

"That's probably because I am, Uncle Fred," Amanda grinned proudly. "Mike had the business organized as 'A & M Woodworks.' It's named for, and owned and operated by the both of us. We're signin' a contract with one homebuilder, on Monday, for all the cabinetry for fifty homes this next year. And that doesn't include the work we'll be doin' for other builders in the area."

"How many employees do you have, Mike?" Tom -- Charles's brother wanted to know.

"Right now, I have one full-timer and one part-timer. Next week, I'm hiring two more men, full time. They're experienced semi-retired carpenters that want to work in the shop."

"That doesn't sound like a very big staff -- even including you -- if you're lookin' at handlin' what amounts to be a whole house worth of cabinets every single week," Tom mused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

"Well, I'll probably hire one or two high school students from the vocational program, after the first of the year, to work part time in the afternoons. I may have to hire more, later, dependin' on the work load."

"You'd hire kids still in school?" Tom's eyes widened.

"Actually, that's how I got my start," I chuckled. "One of my neighbors hired me as a cabinetmaker for his company, when I was fifteen. I'd been takin' woodworkin' classes since seventh grade. It's somethin' I've always had an aptitude for, and an interest in, and I got a good recommendation from my teacher."




Amanda Pt. 05



"Mike's gonna teach me about woodworkin', too, Uncle Tom," Amanda told him. "That's the reason I got my hair cut. He really stresses safety above everything else. You can see how clean the shop is. It wasn't just because we were plannin' on havin' you folks look at it. He insists on havin' it cleaned up like this at the end of every workday."

A note from Mike:

Some years have passed, now, since the events told in this story. In order for everything to make sense to you, there's some things you need to know.

Unfortunately, they happened between other people, and I wasn't present to witness them, so I had to put things together later on, after I found out the whole story. If this next little bit seems 'out of place', I ask you to forgive me. After all, I'm a cabinet-maker, not a professional author...)

Between explanations of how cabinets were made, and stops at each big power tool, plus questions from family members and answers from Mike or Amanda, the tour had been going on for a little over two hours. The early part had been interesting enough; power tools and how to use them were things that Junior easily understood. They were talking finances, now, and debt-to-income ratios and bookkeeping.

That kind of thing was over his head, like a roof. The day had started out a bit on the chilly side, but had already warmed up to nearly seventy degrees. He'd already rolled his shirtsleeves up past his elbows, but he was still a bit warm. For some reason -- maybe the noise; he recalled the things made a fair amount -- Mike hadn't bothered to turn the big overhead ventilation fans on. Stepping outside, into the cooling mid-day breeze, would feel like pure heaven -- and, besides, he was feeling the urge for a smoke.

Catching Mike's eye, he hooked his left thumb over his shoulder in the direction of the open bay door, while bringing two fingers of his right hand to his lips, pantomiming taking a puff. Thankfully, he saw Mike grin at him and give him a gentle nod that it was okay if he stepped outside for a smoke. He'd have hated to accidentally offend his favorite nephew.

Maggie saw Junior turn and head outdoors out of the corner of her eye, and realized that this might be the perfect time to have a private word with him. She'd wanted to the moment she'd awakened this morning, but couldn't see a way to manage it that wouldn't attract undue attention. As the day had moved along, a sense of urgency had built within her, as she recalled that Mike's uncle and his family would be heading back to Texas City later in the day. If she didn't talk to him now, she might never have another opportunity that was as good. She leaned toward her husband, who was listening intently to Mike and Amanda explain the financial structure of their cabinet business, and whispered into his ear.

"Charles, I've heard a lot of this, already, from Amanda. It's a little stuffy, in here, with those big fans not runnin', and I'd kinda like to get a bit of fresh air. D'you mind?"

"Of course I don't, Darlin'," he smiled at her, then kissed her on her cheek. "You go ahead and get some air. I'm thinkin' this tour is gonna wind down pretty soon, anyway."

Maggie returned his kiss, then turned and walked slowly and quietly -- so as not to disturb the other guests -- out through the bay doors. Looking left and then right, she spied Junior a few yards away, quietly smoking a cigarette.

"Would you happen to have an extra one of those?" she asked as she drew near to him. "I'm afraid I left mine in my purse, and I left that back up at the house."

"Sure, Maggie," Junior smiled at her, taking the pack from his shirt pocket and shaking one loose "Go ahead."

"Thanks, much," she smiled graciously and allowed her voice just a hint of giggle as she reached out and withdrew the cigarette from the pack. 'Can I get a light, too?"

Junior fished in the left-hand pocket of his jeans, finally pulling out his battered Zippo. Flipping the top, he thumbed the wheel and extended the flame toward Maggie. As he did so, the star-shaped pucker of scar tissue on his left forearm was clearly visible. She was struck with a strange sense of what the books called 'déjà vu,' knowing that she'd had a moment exactly like this one, many years in her past.

"Thanks," she told him, venting a cloud of exhaled smoke into the late morning air. "I appreciate it."

"No problem," Junior shrugged.

"That's a mighty nasty-lookin' scar y'all have, there," she said softly, extending her right hand to touch the little pucker with a fingertip. "How'd you come by it?"

Junior was in the midst of inhaling a deep drag, and the smoke caught in his throat as he heard her words. The short hairs on the back of his neck began to rise, and a chill slithered like a snake down his spine. He could swear he'd heard those words, in that same soft voice, once before -- a woman asking him about his scar.

"Little souvenir from a place called Tulagi -- an island in the Solomon chain, in the South Pacific," he told her. "Matter of fact, it was 24 years ago, today -- only, it was Thanksgiving Day, that year, and a battalion of Japanese troops got the idea of tryin' to overrun our base while we were havin' our Thanksgiving dinner."

"I thought so," Maggie murmured quietly. "I should've realized it, after the reception, yesterday, when you rolled up your sleeves to help put away the tables and chairs, and I caught a glimpse of your scar. I was too wrapped up in all the mother-of-the-bride duties, though, for my brain to connect it. It was only this morning, when I woke, that it all came back to me."

"What came back to you?" Junior asked her the question, even though he already had a fair idea what her answer would be.

"In the late spring of 1947, you went to your doctor for a physical exam. He told you that you were healthy as a horse, and then he asked you if you'd be interested in helping a young married couple have a child. The husband had suffered a groin injury while in the army, and was unable to father a child. The couple didn't have the funds to pursue adoption, so the only way a child could come into their lives was if she was 'with' some other man who could provide healthy sperm cells..."

Even though he'd had some notion of what her answer would be, the full impact of Maggie's words hit Junior like a bolt of lightning and he stood straight up as the shock flooded through him -- along with the full meaning of her words.

"That was you, Maggie?" he asked, his eyes wide and his voice hoarse and choked with emotion.

"Yes, that was me," she nodded, her lips forming a shy smile.

"So Amanda..."

"She's your daughter, Junior," Maggie confirmed.

"But that would make her and Mike..."

"... first cousins. I know." Maggie nodded, frowning.

"What do we do, now?" Junior asked her. "Should we tell them?"

"And tear their world apart?" Maggie shrugged, tears rolling down her cheeks. "They've barely been married a day! I can't bear to do that to my daughter. Mike is her whole world. Better we just keep this between the two of us, and pray that any children they have will be normal and healthy."

Junior drew on his cigarette, sucked the smoke down and exhaled, thinking all the while.

"Your folks didn't raise livestock, did they?" he asked her.

"No," she shook her head. "Well, we kept some chickens, for fresh eggs and the occasional Sunday dinner, but the cash crops were cotton and corn. What's that got to do with Mike and Amanda?"

"When I was a youngster, we had a fair number of dairy cows, and the farmer on down the road a piece had a prize bull. Every so often, we'd get a cow bred by that bull. If we were lucky, she'd eventually calve, and then -- a couple of years later, we'd get that same calf bred by the same bull. We never saw any birth defects in any of the offspring. Mike and Amanda are both a couple of healthy young folks, and I think the same will be true of them. I don't think we have anything to worry about, on that count. And, as long as you and I keep quiet about what we know, neither one of 'em will ever have to worry about goin' to jail for committin' incest, either!"

"You make it sound comforting, Junior," Maggie told him. "I'll just have to hope it's true. Those two are honor-driven enough that, if they ever found out, they'd get a divorce or an annulment, even though doin' it would tear the hearts right out of their chests. I can't do that to my daughter."

"And I sure as hell can't do that to my brother's only son, either, Maggie," Junior nodded. "So, we're agreed, then? It'll remain our deep, dark secret?"

"It has to, Junior," Maggie agreed, pausing to take the last drag on her cigarette, then drop it to the ground and crush it beneath her shoe. Her eyes brimmed with tears. "Their future and their happiness depend on us keeping quiet."

Junior pulled a clean handkerchief from his pocket and extended it to her.

"You best dry your eyes, Maggie," he advised, "'fore your husband sees you've been cryin', and wonders why."

"True enough," Maggie agreed. "If you don't mind, I could use another cigarette, to help me calm myself down, a bit. When the rest of them come out, we can just be catching up with each other's lives. After all, we grew up as 'next-door' neighbors, and went to school together, even if you graduated two years ahead of me."

Junior passed her another cigarette, offered her a light, and the two were actually recounting places they'd lived and things they'd done, through the years since high school, when the tour finally ended and the rest of the two families came trickling out of the shop.

Things were winding down, so I told everyone that -- since we were having nice weather -- I was preparing a lunch up at the house. We all walked back to the house where Mom, Junior, and Kathy had card tables set up and the grill lit and ready. Both families mingled and talked, while Junior and I brought out the hamburgers and hot dogs and started cooking. One table had the buns, condiments, and prepared vegetables ready.

Three groups, one of men, one of women, and the third of children, separated and talked. When the meats started coming off the grill, the youngsters were served first. Amanda and I made the ladies go next. After the men had served themselves, Amanda and I prepared our plates. We mingled from table to table, chatting, while everyone was eating.

I did take note of the fact that Junior seemed to be a bit quiet, compared to his usual outgoing self, during the meal, but I put it down to a combination of some of the things he'd told me -- about the state of his relationship with Aunt Kathy, at the moment -- and the fact that, shortly after the meal was over and everything was cleaned and put away, he'd wind up being trapped in that station wagon of his, with Kathy and the girls, for the nearly five-hour drive back to Texas City.

I did see Grandma go over to him, at one point, and the two of them got up and wandered off toward the other side of the house. I figured that Grandma wanted to talk to him about selling his land to me, and he'd clue her in on the fact that it was already a done deal. They were gone for about half an hour and, when they came back, Junior seemed to be more his old, jovial self again, so I didn't think much on it beyond that. I was wrong, then, but I wouldn't find out until much later.

Junior and Kathy stayed long enough to help get things cleaned up and put away, after the meal, and then they needed to start on their way back to Texas City. We all wished them a safe trip home and reminded them that we were looking forward to seeing them at Christmas. Amanda's parents, and the rest of her family, left shortly after Junior and Kathy.

Grandma was tired, and wanted to lie down and rest for a while, so Mom saw her off to her bedroom. As I watched the two ladies head off into the hall, I suddenly realized that this thing with Grandma getting tired was happening more often, of late. I guess it had taken me this long to have it sink through to me. Grandma's illness was progressing, and she wasn't going to be with us much longer.

I had just poured a cup of coffee for myself, and one for Amanda, and sat down at the table and lit a cigarette, when Mom returned from putting Grandma to bed. She took a seat across the table and looked over at me.

"What are your plans for tomorrow, Mike?" she asked me.

"I don't know," I shrugged. "The boss hasn't told me yet."

"Then, maybe you ought to ask her," Mom chuckled.

"Boss, what'm I doin', tomorrow?" I asked Amanda -- who, for a change, was sitting across the table next to Mom.

"I love a man that knows his place," Amanda turned and winked at Mom, before giving me a smile. "I haven't really decided, yet. What do you want him for, Mama Davidson?"

"We need to go into town and do a final check on the house, to make sure we got everything out. I'm pretty sure we did, but it was a hectic move, and I want to be sure. There's a real possibility that we'll be able to close on the sale, this comin' week."

"I guess I'll have to loan you out, tomorrow, Honey," Amanda chuckled. "Though, I think I ought to come along and supervise."

"Yeah, you'd better," I nodded. "I'm so incapable of doin' anythin' on my own. You remember all the trouble I had askin' you to marry me."

Mom started laughing, and I joined in, while Amanda got up and came around the table to sit on my lap. Plucking the cigarette from between my fingers and taking a drag, then handed it back to me. Then, wrapping her arms around me, she gave me a big, sloppy kiss.

"I'm sure glad you were able to do it without all your usual stammerin' and stutterin', too!" she laughed.

"Speakin' of which," Mom broke in, looking at both of us with slightly misty eyes, "Maggie and I talked about your proposal to Amanda, Mike. We were surprised when you asked her in front of us, but we were both pleased and honored that you included us as witnesses."

"I was expectin' him to pop the question at some point," Amanda laughed, "but not in that exact way. You always hear about the guy getting' down on one knee and all, but there I was, sittin' in his lap!"

"Okay, okay, okay!" I grumbled -- it was fake, of course, and they both knew it -- "Y'all will be sure and let me know, if I ever do anythin' right!"

Mom about split a gut, laughing, but my darling Amanda -- bless her sweet little heart, simply gave me the most loving smile.

"Honey, I don't know if you can ever do anythin' WRONG! Everythin' I know of that you've done, is right."

"That ain't exactly true, Amanda," Mom giggled. "Mike has pulled his share of stunts. He's skipped school to go fishin' and generally acted like a typical boy when he was younger. That only changed when he started workin' for Raymond. He seemed to grow up, mentally, and act more like a responsible young adult, almost overnight. Even his teachers in school took note of it."

Amanda looked at me for a long moment, kind of distant, like she was seeing scenes flash by in her memory, and then she leaned close and gave me a soft kiss.

"I noticed it, too," she told Mom. "I've been watchin' him ever since we got to know Grandma Davidson, and she started tellin' me about him. It didn't take me long to figure out who he was. He was always so quiet and serious and shy, just like Grandma described him.

"There were some girls, in high school, that were interested in him, and we all wondered what it'd take to get to know him. If a girl tried to talk to him, he'd mumble somethin', and then turn and be gone. He seemed to put all his efforts into his studyin'. Every time I'd see him, his head would be in a book, or he'd be studyin' a drawin' or somethin'. He never laughed and joked around, like the rest of the boys did. Even in tenth grade, he seemed to be driven to accomplish somethin'."

"What was I tryin' to tell you, for so long, Mike?" Mom asked pointedly. And, when I say pointedly, I mean that she was pointing a wagging finger at me. I raised my hands in surrender.

"What can I say, Mom," I asked her, "except I'm glad I listened?"

"I'm gonna have to ask you to forgive me, Amanda," Mom continued. "I was always workin' evenin's or nights, and wasn't with him that much. I let his shyness go on for far too long, before I did anythin' about it."

"I'm actually kinda glad you didn't, Mama Davidson," Amanda said, as she reached for my pack of cigarettes and took one. I offered her a light and, once she was set, she continued. "See, I know I wasn't the prettiest girl in school. Lord knows, there were some real pretty girls fixin' to set their caps for Mike, but he never looked at 'em. You straightened him out at just the perfect time, and I'm the one that got him!"

"Is that so, girl?"

"Believe it, Mama Davidson. I'd been wantin' him for the past couple years. The more I've learned about him, the more I've wanted him. Out of all the guys at school, I got the best one of the bunch! I'm gonna have to make him take me out to places where those others go, so's I can show him off!"

"Don't I have a choice in any of this?" I asked. "Ya'll are talkin' about me like I was a bug on a pin in biology class! I'm sittin' right here!"

A resounding "NO!" came from both of them.

"Honey, you were the very one that told me I had to take the lead in our relationship," Amanda reminded me.

"That was in one very specific area only," I countered. "I think we're well past that now, aren't we? We're partners now, both in life and in business."

"I know we're partners, Honey," she giggled. "I'm the managin' partner, and you're the producin' partner. I'll manage your life and you'll produce what I want."

"Well," I told her, as straight-faced as I could, "One of these days, I hope to manage somethin' that sees YOU producin' somethin' about nine months later!"

"An' I guess that all depends on your production, husband," she turned it back on me with a sly wink.

Mom burst into laughter at our exchange. As for me, I could see that this line of discussion was going downhill very fast for me. It was time to change the subject.

"Not to change the subject, Mom," I fibbed, "But I need to tell you about the offer Junior made. When he, Amanda, and I were in the shop -- that'd be Thursday morning, after breakfast - he made us a heck of a deal. He said that, if I paid him a hundred dollars a month for sixty months, starting in January, his sixty acres would be mine. He's sellin' me the land for half what it's worth, and lettin' me pay it out over five years at no interest. I can't turn that down. He even had the deed already made out, where all I have to do is take it to the court house and have it recorded."

While Mom was busy picking her lower jaw up off the floor, I turned to Amanda.

"Sugar, that's one bill we always have to pay." I told her.

"There'll be more than enough, from your part of the house sale, to cover that," Mom reminded me.

"I know," I replied. "Amanda's the one that's convinced me that a little debt can be a good thing, by allowin' us to keep a larger cash reserve. We haven't really talked about it much, but I'd like to build up a reserve that would carry us at least six months. I'd feel a lot more comfortable that way."

"Mike," a voice came from behind me, "I'm really glad to know you'll be able to have the entire farm. Try not to ever sell any of it, please?"

Grandma had awakened from her short nap, and returned to the kitchen to join us. As she took a seat at the end of the table, Amanda tapped me on the arm.




Amanda Pt. 05



"I've been thinkin', Honey," she began.

"Uh-oh," I said with a fake groan.

"Watch it, mister!" she chuckled, giving me a gentle swat on the same arm.

"I am, darlin," I laughed. "I am!"

"Ooohhh, you!" she growled through clenched teeth. Then, the 'storm' was over, and she was continuing with her initial thought.

"We'll most likely wind up inheritin' my folks' place, too, since there's no other kids. They've got sixty five acres, and you know it adjoins our ninety acres. Combined, that could be a pretty good-sized spread. Dad's been talking about gettin' a few cows. Maybe y'all could work together, on that."

"It'll be something to look into, in two or three years," I nodded, "unless your dad wants to pursue it sooner. Right now, though, we need to get the cabinet shop up and runnin' smoothly. That, an' gettin' you finished at school have to be our first priorities."

"Speakin' of the shop, Mike,' Mom said, "If you're gonna leave the beds set up in that office area for Junior's family, Amanda's gonna need a place to work 'til after Christmas. Is there space in the room where our furniture is stored, to set up a temporary office?"

I looked to my wife for input on that count.

"All I'll need is a desk, chair, and a lockin' file cabinet," she shrugged. "I think there's room for that. There's a place we can set it up, just inside the door."

"Why don't you two go and check, to be sure?" Grandma suggested. "Patsy and I'll start dinner. How many of your family are coming Amanda?"

"Just Mama and Dad," Amanda said. "The rest of them were leavin' this afternoon. Dad's parents don't want to face the Sunday traffic, and the rest have work or school on Monday. I'm sure they all want to use tomorrow to get ready for the comin' week."

Hand in hand, Amanda and I strolled leisurely down to the shop, chatting idly. The main door had been left unlocked when Junior ands his family packed and loaded their station wagon to head home, of course, so we went on inside. While I trusted my uncle, after hearing what he'd had to say about his wife and daughters, I wasn't so trusting of them and so, with my wife at my side, I made a quick check on all the other interior doors and found them all secure.

As we opened the door into the office area, I saw that someone -- Junior, I figured -- had stripped the beds and had the sheets and towels bagged neatly inside a couple of the pillowcases, ready for the laundry. As the word, 'laundry,' crossed my mind, I made a mental note to look into getting hold of a washer and dryer -- perhaps a used pair -- for the shop, as soon as our finances would permit. I wasn't crazy about the idea of washing shop rags in the household washer. We went out into the main area of the shop where Amanda headed for the coffee bar I'd built in.

She grabbed a pair of clean shop rags out of a package I'd picked up at the local lumberyard, a small pail of water, and headed for the storage room. I unlocked the door for her and we looked briefly at the stacks of boxes and furniture, figuring out a way to move some of the things around and re-stack them, to give us a reasonable amount of open floor space directly beneath one of the overhead lights. She began to wipe down the desk and the exterior of the filing cabinet, to get them ready for her use. I gave her a hand, coming along behind her with a drying-rag, and the task only took a couple of minutes. With that finished, she stepped back, looked things over, and said, "Honey, I believe that'll do."

With the aid of an old hand truck that had been part of the lot of tools I'd bought from Raymond, it didn't take us long to move the desk and filing cabinet into position in the storage area. The chair that went along with the desk was on wheels, so Amanda moved it over to the desk on her own while I hauled the heavier items. I opened the drawers of the cabinet, one by one, and found that the top-most drawer was empty, except for an envelope that held a pair of small keys. Testing one of those in the lock on the cabinet, I found that it worked.

Meanwhile, Amanda was going through the drawers in the desk, and found them empty except for a couple of pencils and a legal pad. She sat down in the chair, while I perched on the corner of the desk, and we took a few minutes to talk about the office supplies she'd need. She used the legal pad and a pencil to make a thorough shopping list.

"Tuesday is a short day of classes, for me, so I'll be out of class early, and swing through town and take care of this list," she told me. "Meanwhile, where do you want to do the contract signing on Monday?"

"Why don't we just use the big assembly table in the shop?" I suggested. "There's plenty of room for all of us to gather around it, and the lighting's good there, too."

"Sounds good to me, Honey," she voiced her approval.

"So, what do you think, Sugar?" I asked her. "Do we have everything taken care of?"

"We're ready," she said.

I slid off the desk, took my wife by the hand and pulled her to her feet. Then, wrapping her in my arms, I kissed her. That first kiss turned into more kisses, and she pressed her body tightly against me, wriggling it in an absolutely delightful and terribly suggestive manner.

"I hope we can get to bed early, tonight, Honey," she murmured between kisses. "You've got something I want... something I need, badly."

"What would that be?" I asked, having a good idea.

Her hand slithered down between us and grasped my penis through the fabric of my jeans.

"This, of course," she informed me in a sultry voice.

"You've got something that I want, too," I told her, letting my arms slip downward along her back and buttocks until my hands could lift up the hem of her skirt. I pulled one hand toward the front, to rub her pussy, and then discovered that her panties were missing.

"Why, Mrs. Davidson!" I said, "You've forgotten part of your wardrobe!"

She dipped her head slightly forward, to look up at me through her long eyelashes, like a shy little girl.

"Mama told me about boys wantin' to see my panties," she told me, in that 'little girl' voice she did so well. "She always said I shouldn't never let 'em see my panties. So I thought, if I didn't wear no panties, nobody'd be wantin' to see 'em."

"Well, little girl, it should be alright then," I said, falling in line with her role-play. "If you don't have no panties on, I can't see 'em, and your mama won't be upset about it. Would that be okay with her?"

"I guess maybe it would," she said. "I'm havin' a problem though. I'm itchin' in a place I can't get to. Can you help me, Mister? This itch is really, really botherin' me."

"You'll have to show me where it's itchin' little girl," I said. "Can you do that?"

"Can you help me sit up on the desk, Mister?" she asked. "I'll have to put my knees up so I can show you where my itch is."

She spread the towel on the desktop, unfastened, and removed her skirt, draping it neatly over the back of the chair. I lifted her at the waist, and helped her sit on the desk, her luscious buttocks positioned squarely on the towel. She leaned back then, first to her hands, then down onto her elbows and, finally, flat on her back, raising her knees and spreading her legs wide open.

"Mister, I didn't used to have all this hair down here," she explained, running her fingers -- like a comb -- through her lush bush. "The itchin' started when all this hair started growin'. I tried shavin' the hair off, but that only made it itch on the outside, too. The real bad itch is on the inside, where I can't reach it."

"You can't scratch the itch?" I asked.

"No, Mister," she said. "It itches way up inside of me."

"Where at, inside?" I asked.

"See that tiny li'l hole, Mister?" she moaned, spreading her labia with two fingers of her left hand and pointing directly into her vagina with her right, "It itches real bad, up in there, and I can't reach far enough inside to scratch it. Can you help me? Do you have somethin' you can put in there and scratch my itch with?"

I was busily unbuckling, unsnapping, and unzipping. I shoved my jeans and jockeys down. When my erection sprang free, Amanda raised her head and looked at me with wide eyes.

"Mister, what is that big thing? What're you gonna do with that?"

"That's a special itch scratcher, little lady," I said. "It'll reach your itch and fix it."

"Will that big ol' thing fit in my tiny li'l hole? It looks too big. Won't it hurt?" she asked plaintively.

"It'll fit in there, and it'll really scratch your itch, little lady," I said. "That's what it's for. It makes a lotion that'll really make you feel good, up inside there, where the itch is."

"Well, I don't know. I'm kinda afraid it'll hurt me," she said, as she touched her clit. "I wuz rubbin' this bump in the front here, to try and stop the itch but that only made it get all wet and slick-feelin'. It helped a little bit, with the itch, but it didn't last long."

"Little lady, that slicky stuff will make my itch-scratcher go in, real easy," I chuckled. "Let me pull you closer, so your bottom is at the edge, here. Are you sure your mama won't mind us doin' this?"

"My mama don't have to know," she giggled. "Besides, I saw her doin' somethin' like this, with Daddy, one time. She musta had a real bad itch, too. Please help me, Mister. I'm itchin' real, real bad."

Amanda was so wet that I slid right into her. She rose on her elbows, to see the place where we were joined together, and I took advantage of her pose by leaning over and kissing her.

"OOOOOhhhh, I like that," she sighed, before kissing me again. "Mister, my itch feels better already. That big ol' thing really did fit in my tiny li'l hole."

"I told you it would, little lady," I laughed. "Now, I have to move it in and out, to really scratch your itch. I'll rub this bump here, in front, too. That'll make it feel a lot better and it'll help my scratcher put its magic lotion inside your li'l hole."

It takes a fair amount of effort to keep up that sort of role-playing act, and do it with a straight face, under any circumstances. As it was, with the physical sensations we were both getting from our joined bodies, we'd both reached our limit. We burst out laughing, while we coupled frantically on the desk. After a few moments, the laughter turned to moans and groans of pleasure as we satisfied each other's urgings. She came, at last, with a screech voiced at the top of her lungs, and I was glad that the shop was some distance from the house, so that our passion went unheard by the rest of the family.

Eventually, the heat of the passion was spent, and we relaxed, holding each other gently, kissing and swapping tongues until I shank and slipped from her.

"Stay here, Sugar; I'll be right back," I told her, and then went off to grab a fresh wet rag and a dry one. Returning to her, I cleaned her gently and then went to clean myself.

"Uh-uh, Mister!" she said, sitting up and grabbing my hand. "I'll take care of cleaning you off!"

Sliding off the desk, she dropped to her knees and proceeded to clean me off with her lips and tongue.

"We taste real good, together, Honey," she told me as she finished, and then she rose to her feet and kissed me, slipping her tongue into my mouth so I could see what she meant. I have to say, I tasted a lot more of her pussy juice than I did of me. Overall, it wasn't bad.

She took a minute to put her skirt back on, and then we cleaned the mess off the corner of the desk, making sure we'd removed all the evidence of our passion. The smell of it was thick in the air around us, but it'd vanish before anyone else would be venturing into that area, so we closed the storage room and headed back to the office to gather the laundry.

"Mister, that really did help my itch," she giggled as we started our walk back up to the house. "Can I get you to do that again, if I start itchin' again?"

"I'll always be ready to help stop your itch, little lady," I said, as we both laughed.

Amanda started the bed linens and towels in the washer, when we returned. Grandma was napping again, so the two of us, and Mom, sat at the kitchen table with fresh cups of coffee. Amanda took my pack of cigarettes from my shirt pocket, lit one, and Mom and I followed suit. As she exhaled her first puff at the ceiling, Amanda looked across the table at Mom.

"Mama Davidson, I want to talk to both you and Mike, when we're out tomorrow. I just want it to be the three of us."

"What do you want to talk about, Baby?" Mom asked, raising a curious eyebrow.

"Let's wait 'til tomorrow," Amanda suggested. "It's nothin' bad, but it is somethin' that concerns just the three of us. It'll keep 'til then. Just know that I love the both of you and want to help us be a more successful, happy, family."

I turned to gaze into Amanda's beautiful brown eyes. What was on her mind? What did she want to talk about? Had I done something? Had Mom? Knowing my darling wife, we were going to have to wait to find out.

We finished our cigarettes and coffee while discussing other topics, and then it was time to finish fixing dinner.

By the time Charles and Maggie arrived for dinner we were ready. Amanda and I had the table set, and she and Mom had everything ready in the kitchen. We all took seats and the meal began. The conversation flowed easily, as we ate. After dinner, coffee was served as we all cleared the table. After the cleanup was finished, the conversation continued in the living room. We discussed tentative plans for another family dinner at Christmas.

After Charles and Maggie left, we continued to talk until Grandma said she was ready for bed. When she and Mom left for their bedrooms, Amanda and I checked the locks and lights before going to our room.

Amanda refused to tell me what she wanted to talk to Mom and me about. She did get her itch scratched again, though.

***

Amanda woke early the next morning. She slipped out of bed, put on her robe, and tiptoed to Grandma's bedroom. Grandma had just awakened, but wasn't out of bed, yet, so Amanda went over and knelt by the bed.

"Grandma, I've been thinkin' about what we talked about," she whispered. "I'm gonna surprise 'em today while we're out. Will you help me?"

Grandma softly asked, "Amanda, you and Mike just got married. Are you sure this is what you really want to do?"

"Yes'm, it is," Amanda replied. "I've been watchin' 'em. I can tell they still have strong feelin's for each other, although they try to hide it. I really think Mike's mom should be as happy and fulfilled as I am."

"Bless you, Amanda," Grandma said. "I don't know of another that would be willin' to do what you're plannin'. You must really love both of them."

"Oh I do," Amanda said. "I think I'll be even happier when we can both openly love that wonderful man."

Amanda left Grandma's room and came back to the master bedroom where she started dressing for the day. She had the trap set and baited. All she had to do was spring it at the right moment.

After breakfast was eaten and cleaned up, Mom, Amanda, and I got in my truck for the trip to the house in town. Somehow, Mom wound up in the middle of the front seat between Amanda and me. We'd gone maybe a couple of miles down the road, when Mom decided it was time to bring up the subject she knew we were all thinking about.

"Amanda, what was it that you wanted to talk to us about?"

Amanda turned in the seat so she was facing both of us.

"Mamma Davidson, there's something I'm really curious about. When you had the sex talk with me you said you'd had the same talk with Mike."

"That's right, Amanda, I did." Mom nodded.

Amanda paused for a moment, blushing. Then, taking a deep breath, she spoke again.

"Well, I had the impression that Mike was like me and had no experience before we made love the first time. Am I wrong? Mike seemed to know things about my body you never talked about. Did you tell me everything you told him? It seemed to me that he knew exactly where and how to touch me to really make me have a wonderfully unforgettable experience. Did you or someone else show him what to do?"

She paused for a moment, and I wasn't sure whether it was to catch her breath or wait for an answer from Mom. I'm sure that Mom was caught off guard, and I knew I was, as well, but the question had been asked of Mom, and it was up to her to give an answer.

"I'm so very grateful if someone did," Amanda continued when neither of us spoke up. "Bein' with him is like bein' with a sex master that really knows how to play my body. I feel like I owe someone for that. I really love Mike and I'm so appreciative of how he makes me feel. I'm sure I'm right because Mike talks in his sleep. A couple of weeks ago, I got up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. When I came back to bed Mike was laying on his back with a hard-on. I was suckin' on it, when he started mumblin', 'Oh Mom, your pussy feels so good.'"

All of a sudden, that big breakfast didn't feel so comfortable, sitting in my stomach, and I could see the color drain from Mom's face. If Amanda saw our reactions, she didn't let on about it, but went right on with what she had to say.

"At first, I wondered if he was just havin' a dream, where he was livin' out a fantasy, or somethin'. I've heard talk among the girls, at school. Accordin' to some folks, every young man has a fantasy about beddin' his mama, and I thought that might be what Mike was dreamin' about. Still, that didn't make a whole lot o' sense, 'cause it didn't explain how a guy who'd supposedly never been to bed with a woman before, could be so skilled as he was, first time out o' the gate. I mean, there's a whoppin' big difference between book-learnin' and hands-on experience."

She paused again and, this time, I think, she was expecting one of us to say something, because she'd laid out her case pretty clearly. She pulled a pack of smokes from her purse and lit up, I guess to give us another minute or so to start speaking.

"Well, y'all aren't sayin' anything, but maybe that's 'cause I just haven't asked the right question. Point blank, Mama, have you made love to Mike?"

Mom and I were stunned. This was something I'd never thought would happen. I stopped the truck and looked at Amanda and Mom. What were we going to do? Thankfully, I guess Mom had given some thought to the possibility of our secret coming to light, and how she'd answer such a question.

"Amanda, you've figured out something that we were never going to tell anyone about. To my shame, you're right. I regret it now, but I did have sex with Mike before ya'll met the first time."

"I kinda thought as much," Amanda nodded, taking a drag from her smoke. "How did it happen?"

"You have to understand that I'd watched him grow up into the man you fell in love with and married," Mom explained as she fumbled in her purse for her own cigarettes. Strangely -- at least to me -- Amanda smiled at her and extended the pack she still held in one hand, shaking one loose. Mom took it, accepting Amanda's offered light, and then -- exhaling a puff of smoke with a resigned sigh, she continued.

"Mike reminded me so much of his dad that I fell in love with him as a man, also. I couldn't help myself, even though I tried for a long while. Eventually, I gave in, and started tryin' to send him little signals that I was open to the idea, if he wanted me -- you heard right, at school, by the way. Most young men DO fancy their mothers, and it's somethin' you'll probably have to deal with, if you and Mike ever have any sons.

"But Mike was shy -- you know that from seein' him at school. I swear, the boy was clueless! So -- like I said, to my shame -- I finally seduced him. When he finally realized what I wanted, he admitted that he'd come to love me in a way that wasn't just a boy lovin' his mama, but he'd thought that such a thing was impossible. We talked about things for a couple of hours, and still wanted each other, so I dug out that book and started teachin' him all about men and women, and sex.




Amanda Pt. 06



Author's Note – Many thanks to all of you going on the journey with Mike and Amanda. This chapter picks up immediately following the end of chapter 5. Again, a huge hat tip to Ciguardian for the help keeping me on track. Thank you for reading and your votes.

 Part 6 – Family Life, Business Life, and A Marriage Ends 

 We finished the tour of the shop and returned to the assembly table. 

 "Mike, I'm impressed," Harrison told me. "Your shop is better equipped and laid out than I expected, for such a new operation. It's apparent that you put a lot of thought and planning into material flow, and economy of handling parts. I expected no less after seeing the attention to detail in your finished work. It'll be a pleasure doing business with you."

 He produced the original and three copies of the contract. He, Amanda, and I reviewed it together. Harrison and I had talked several times already, by phone, and agreed on prices, terms, and conditions. The contract specified our top grade cabinets with cathedral raised panel doors in three woods, red oak, ash, and walnut. The prices were different for each because of the differences in lumber prices. I noticed one difference from the copy of the contract that Harrison had left with me, out at the campsite. 

 "I'm noticing that the price point you're offering, on our cabinets, is about five percent higher than in the paperwork you gave me the other day. What's up with that, Harrison?" 

 "We expect the best quality workmanship, in these cabinets, Mike," he replied, "and we're perfectly willing to pay for it. I have a couple business advisors, and they've told me that the current inflation rate is expected to rise another three to five percent, over the coming year. We've adjusted our pricing schedules to ensure that our subcontractors won't be losing money to give us what we ask for."

 "I see," I said.

 "Do you have any other questions, regarding the contract?" Harrison asked.

 "What about some of the exotic woods, that aren't available in commercial plywood? Would you permit us to use veneers over plywood?" I asked. "I'm just speculating, but what would you do if the customer wanted cabinets from zebrawood or ebony? I know we can get solid stock, but I wouldn't want to use it for large end panels due to their rates of expansion and contraction. Would veneer over plywood be acceptable?"

 "That's a good point, Mike," he nodded pleasantly. "You continue to impress me. You'd be surprised at how many local woodworkers really don't understand the differences in expansion and contraction rates, with some of the exotic woods, or would even consider it. But, to answer your question, we've never had a customer request us to use exotic woods in their homes, thus far. If it should happen, that falls under the 'special exceptions' clause in the contract, and you and I will sit down and work out the process and the pricing for such cabinets, accordingly, so that you can maintain your quality and not lose money on the deal. Will that work, for you?"

 "It will," I agreed, much relieved. Those exotic woods were often far more expensive to obtain, and harder to work with. I turned to my wife.

 "Are you satisfied with the contract?" I asked her. "Do you have any question about the terms?"

 "No, Mike," she shook her head. "I understand everything, and I'm satisfied with the terms and pricing, if you are."

 "In that case, we accept your contract." I informed Harrison.

 "I'm very pleased," he smiled. "I think we're going to be doing a lot of business, together, over the coming years."

 Harrison took a pen from his pocket and signed all four copies, passing them to Amanda as he did so. As co-owners of the business, both our signatures were required. After all four were signed, Harrison's notary added her signature at a corner of the page, affixing her seal atop it, and we were done.

 At that point, Mom, Grandma, Maggie, and Charles took the Wagoneer and headed back up to the house to await the furniture delivery, leaving Amanda and me to chat with Harrison. 

He produced copies of the blueprints for the first five houses, for our use. The address for each house was listed on the plans, and they included detailed drawings of the cabinet layouts and elevations. Each plan had a sheaf of documents that accompanied it, which specified the projected dates for completion of the framing, drywall, and painting, and there was even a page listing the number and sizes of the cabinets, as well as the hardware to be used.

 "We'll be handling the ordering of the hinges, handles, and drawer-pulls, as well as the drawer-slides, for the cabinets," Harrison noted, "and they will either be direct-shipped to you, or one of our people will be dropping them off at your shop. We'll keep you updated, by phone, on the progress of the construction on each home, to account for weather delays or other hold-ups in the process, so that you can adjust your delivery dates accordingly."

 He dug into his briefcase, again, and pulled out a thick three-ring binder filled with papers.

 "This is a complete catalog of our company's standards for construction," he said as he handed the notebook to me. "There's a wealth of detail that goes into the building of a custom home, and we have our own standards for tolerances in construction. You'll be responsible for making your own set of measurements, as you come on-site, and verifying that your measurements match what's indicated in the blueprints."

 I could expect minor variations in dimensions. I always measured the site before building the cabinets since they were built to fit the specific location. John and Mr. Groves both had taught me, long ago, that you measure three times and cut once.

 "You can count on that," I told him. "Though, it's not uncommon to find things off an eighth of an inch, or so, from the blueprints. With my own set of measurements, I'll make the cabinets a perfect fit." 

 "Well, if there's nothing else, I think this concludes our business here, today," Harrison said at last, closing his briefcase and smiling. He turned, then, and looked at Amanda.

 "I understand that congratulations are in order, Mrs. Davidson," he grinned at her.

 Amanda's face was blank, for a moment, but then brightened.

 "Yes Sir," she replied brightly. "We married this past Friday while the families were all here for the holiday."

 "What made you choose that date?" Margie – the notary, who was also Harrison's executive secretary, we'd learned – asked her. "I mean, it was the day after Thanksgiving."

 Amanda replied, "We chose that date for two reasons. First, we knew all the families would be here to see it. Second, and most importantly, we chose that date for Mike's grandmother. She's ill and doesn't expect to live much longer. She gave Mike the property and has supported us tremendously in getting started. She's also been trying to get us together for a few years. We did it for her."

 I added, "It was totally Amanda's idea. Once we explained why to our moms, they made it work for us. We both have had tremendous family support, both in our lives and in getting this business started."

 "Won't that be awkward, with your anniversary and a holiday that close?" Margie asked.

 "I doubt it," Amanda chuckled. "And it oughta make sure that my hubby never forgets our anniversary!"

 "I hadn't thought of it, that way," Maggie chuckled, amidst the laughter that Amanda's reply caused.

 "We look at our employees as part of our extended family, also," Amanda continued as the laughs died off. "Today is our first official day of business operations. We had several contractors in earlier, because we wanted them to meet our staff and see our shop."

 "Mike, Amanda, I look forward to a long business relationship with you," Harrison smiled warmly. "Thank you, both, and thanks to your families for the wonderful lunch. I really wish that we had some time to stay and chat a bit, but Margie and I need to get back to Tyler."

 "We understand," I nodded, smiling. "You've got a business to run."

 "So do you, Mike," he chuckled. "But I meant what I said, about sitting and chatting. I like to get to know the people I work with. My employees are family, too – and that goes for my regular subcontractors, like you, and my plumbers and electricians, too. My wife and I host a big barbecue every summer, at our place outside of Tyler. Margie will make sure that you and Amanda get put on the guest list."

 Amanda and I walked Harrison and Margie out to his car, shook hands and said our goodbyes, and watched as they drove up the lane toward the main road. As we watched them leave, I noticed that a big truck, with 'Maness' painted on the side, was backed up to the house.

 "Looks like our furniture's here," I told her. "How about we shut the shop down, for the day, and pay everyone for a full eight hours?"

 "Sounds good to me, Honey," she nodded.

 We walked back into the shop and called the guys together.

 "Amanda and I have a load of new bedroom furniture bein' delivered," I explained, "and we need to head up and tell the folks where everythin' goes, in the room. We're closin' down, for the day, but y'all get a full eight hours pay, anyway."

 "Why don't y'all split the leftover food amongst you, and take it home?" Amanda suggested. "We'll see y'all tomorrow morning, regular startin' time."

 Several of the crew made themselves some brisket sandwiches and wrapped them in paper, stuffing them into their lunch bags, and then left. There was still some brisket left in the pan, and a good bit of potato salad in the big bowl.

 "Mind if I take the pan of brisket and the bowl of potato salad home with me?" Larry asked. "I got nothin' to put the leftovers in. I'll bring your pan and bowl back, washed, in the mornin'."

 "Go ahead," I said with a laugh. "You get to pay for it by waitin' a few minutes for Amanda to lock that contract up and helpin' me move a refrigerator over by the coffee bar."

 After we moved the refrigerator, he helped us shut down and secure the shop, and we helped him carry the food to his car and put it on the floor in the back seat.

 Larry drove up to the house to pick up his wife, while Amanda and I spent another minute or so in locking up the shop. As I locked the outer door, I led her a few steps away from the building, and then turned to point out the sign to her.

 "Makes it look nice and official, don't it?" I asked her.

 "It sure does," she agreed. "Honey, I've gotta go see my bedroom." 

 We turned and walked, my arm over her shoulder, up the lane toward the house. Hugging me close, she leaned in and whispered into my ear.

 "Mister, I don't have no panties on, and I'm itchin', again."

 "Now you tell me," I said. "You could have waited 'til after all the company left. You're just torturin' me."

 "Let's just say I'm keepin' you interested," she replied smugly.

 As we reached the house, Larry and Karen were just leaving. We said another round of goodbyes and then went inside as they got into their car to head home. Grandma was seated at the kitchen table, and we went in and sat down with her for a few minutes. 

 "Mike, I'm amazed at what you've done with that old barn," she told us. "It's never been that clean and neat inside. I'm so proud of you."

 "I couldn't have done it without your inspiration and guidance," I said. "You, Mom, and now Amanda, all have made it possible. I can never repay what I owe the three of you."

 "Having you and Amanda together is payment enough," she said. "You can pay it forward, by takin' care of her. Now, ya'll need to go see what they've done to your bedroom."

 By the time we reached the bedroom, the furniture was all in place and the deliverymen were standing around, waiting for a final approval. Amanda and I took a look around, and decided that the furniture was basically where we'd figured on putting it. Maggie and Mom were in the final stages of making up the bed for us. I turned to look at my wife, to find her in tears.

 "What's wrong, Sugar?" I asked, hugging her close.

 "Oh, Honey," she said. "There's nothing wrong. It's just so beautiful. I've always wanted a poster bed and I just love the cherry wood. Grandma sure did us proud. I even like the way everything is arranged in the room. Thank all of you so very much."

 With that, the deliverymen thanked us and left. Amanda ran to the kitchen, still shedding tears, where she hugged and kissed Grandma. 

 "Thank you, so much, Grandma!" she blubbered. "What did I ever do, to deserve this? You've made me so happy."

 Grandma hugged her back, then pulled a clean tissue from the pocket of her housedress, and blotted my wife's eyes.

 "Amanda, don't tell anyone this, but you're my favorite granddaughter," she said. "I did it for you, because I love you."

 "But I'm not your granddaughter," Amanda countered, with a puzzled tone in her voice.

 "You're more of a granddaughter, to me, than you know," Grandma insisted cryptically. "The others're only interested in themselves, and don't care anything about the family. I love Junior, but I'm really disappointed with Kathy and the girls. You, on the other hand, are like my grandson, here. You love without reservation. That's the way it should be, and it's how I'd want any granddaughter of mine to act."

 As she spoke, Mom and Maggie returned to the kitchen, and Charles had come in from the porch, where he'd been seeing to the loading of the old bedroom suite. Grandma looked around at everyone for a moment.

 "Mike, come over here and stand by Amanda," she commanded. When I'd done so, she addressed the others.

 "I want all of you to look at what we've brought together. We have two youngsters here that not only love each other, but also love everyone they come in contact with. I predict they'll be very successful, in their business and personal lives both. Ya'll need to be very proud of both of them."

 Maggie unexpectedly burst into tears, and Charles turned her and drew her into his arms.

 "What's wrong, Darlin'?" he asked, hugging her close.

 Maggie sniffled for a moment, as she regained control over her emotions.

 "Nothin'," she shook her head. "There's nothin' wrong. There's nothin' to worry about, any more. It's too late, now, anyway. I'm just glad the kids are gettin' on so well. Seein' them happy makes me happy."

 Maggie's behavior and what she said seemed a bit strange to me. Thinking about the times I had been around her, she had always been enthusiastic until our wedding. Now she seemed a bit hesitant. Was she worried because Amanda and I had fallen in love and married so quickly? I knew that, with most couples, they took a longer period between meeting for the first time and getting married, so maybe that was it. And, if that wasn't it, then what was she upset or worried about? Whatever it was, it was apparently between her and Charles, to get settled.

 We sat down at the table and chatted a bit, relaxing over cups of coffee after the long day we'd all put in. Eventually, Charles and Maggie told us goodnight, and headed for their home. That left Mom, Amanda, Grandma, and me, sitting at the table.

 "It's so nice to be surrounded by a loving family," Grandma said, quietly.

 "I agree with you, Grandma," I said. "I don't know what I did to deserve it, but I'm so thankful to be living with three wonderful, loving women. All three of you mean more to me than you can ever know."

 I watched, as all three women blushed prettily, and then turned to Grandma.

 "I probably shouldn't say anything," I told her, "but over Thanksgiving I heard some things you might should know about. I got the impression from Uncle Junior that he and Aunt Kathy are havin' some trouble."

 "That's what I figured," she sighed plaintively. "Kathy was actin' strange when we left to go to the community center for ya'll's weddin'. She made some smart alecky comments about having to come out with a bunch of hicks that were too dumb to get out of the rain. She and those girls whined and complained about everything when they were here."

 "I think I know the reason for her mood on our weddin' day," I offered. "I gathered, from what Junior told me, that she was pushin' him to put the land up for sale at the full price, cash on the barrel head, whether I had the money to buy it or not, and he was draggin' his feet about it."

 "I really hate to be the one to say it, Mike," Grandma sighed, "but I wish he had never married her and had those girls. I hope they can stay together, but it don't look good. I wouldn't be surprised if they don't come home for Christmas. It may just be us, this time. Now, not to change the subject, but what are we gonna eat tonight?"

 "Why don't we make it easy and make a big chef's salad or something?" I suggested.

 "Honey, that sounds good, after all the holiday food we've had," Amanda agreed.

 "Amen, to that!" Mom chuckled. "Between Thanksgivin' and the weddin', I must've put on five pounds. First, though, I want Mike to come with me for a minute."

 I followed Mom into the master bedroom and into the bath. She turned and asked sternly, "Mike, why were you bringin' up Junior and Kathy? Don't you think Grandma has enough to worry about?"

 "I figure she knew already, Mom," I said. "In spite of her bein' sick, she's still pretty sharp on those kinda things. I just wanted her to know that she's not alone, in dealin' with it."

 "Well, I guess that's alright," she said, cocking her head to the side a little. "There ain't a lot she ain't got her finger on, around here."

 "Junior also told me somethin' that I never expected to hear him say," I said, glad she was no longer upset with me. "He said that he would rather have had a son like me, than the girls he has. From the way he talked about the whole situation, Kathy has ruined those girls, good and proper."

 "Mike's right, Mama," Amanda spoke up just then, and I guessed that she'd followed along behind us and overheard what we said. "I heard it, too."

 "Well, that's for them to worry about, not for us," Mom advised us. "We've got enough on our plates. Grandma was right, though. Kathy and those girls complained about everything, when they were here. They were really mad about havin' to stay in "some old dirty cow barn". I don't think they'll ever come back up here. They even acted offended that people were payin' attention to you two at your weddin' instead of them. I'm really sad for Junior havin' to put up with those evil witches."

 "I was thinkin' the same thing, after havin' been around 'em for a few days," Amanda grinned and snickered, "though, the word I had in mind ain't 'witches'. It only rhymes with 'witches'."

 "Well, this ain't gettin' dinner ready," Mom chuckled at Amanda's humor. 
"I'm gonna go change and get busy."

 Mom left us, then, and headed off to her bedroom to change clothes. 

 "We might as well get changed, too, Sugar, while we're here," I suggested.

Amanda took her clothes off and got her robe from the closet. I undressed and got a pair of gym shorts and tee shirt to put on. I was just about to head for the kitchen when Mom popped back into our room, carrying a calf-length men's robe in a deep blue. She took one look at my clothing selection, frowned, and shook her head in disapproval.

 "I figured you'd pick somethin' like that. Wear this instead." She handed the robe to me.

 Granted, I knew that Mom had seen me totally buck naked, on plenty of occasions, but my new status as Amanda's husband required me to wait until she'd gone before changing clothes yet again. I got rid of the tee shirt and was about to do the same with the gym shorts, but then I remembered that Amanda had nothing on, under her robe. Figuring that might cause me a little problem, I decided to keep the shorts on. 




Amanda Pt. 06



I slipped into the thick robe, stepped into my house shoes, and headed for the kitchen. Mom and Amanda were waiting for me, in the hallway.

 "Amanda, you've got a real gentleman there," Mom instructed her. "Please take care of him."

 Grandma overheard her and said, "She's right. He's almost one of a kind."

 "I know," Amanda told her. "Every boy I'd dated before Mike wanted to start pawin' my tits and reachin' between my legs on the first date. I had one of them actually tell me I should "put out" because he lowered himself to date me. He said that he could get some from so and so and she was much better lookin' than I was. I started watchin' Mike, at school, after you started talkin' about him. He never talked to anybody except a few of the boys. A few of the girls were interested in him but couldn't get his attention. None of us could figure out how to get him to talk. I was the only one that thought he was just shy."

 "You were right, Amanda," Mom said in agreement. "He was terribly shy."

 "Tell me about it!" Amanda chuckled. "When I went out with Mike that first time, I was really surprised by just how much of a gentleman he was. I even had to ask him to kiss me the first time. I just couldn't believe that there were men like that still around."

 "That wasn't Mike bein' shy, dear," Grandma told her. "It was what his mama taught him – that it's right to let the woman take the lead in things like that. Men are good at readin' some signs, but they're absolutely pitiful when it comes to figurin' out when a woman wants to be kissed, that first time."

 "I know that, now, Grandma," Amanda replied, with a big smile on her face. "Thank you again for getting us together. I couldn't be any happier!"

 "All right, ladies," I grumbled. "Now that you've analyzed me, how about we get somethin' to eat?"

 It didn't take long for Amanda and Mom to make the salad. We had some ham in the fridge, already chopped for breakfast use, and Grandma had hardboiled a few too many eggs when she'd made the potato salad for our big luncheon, so we had them to slice into the mix.

 We sat down to a relaxing meal and, when we were finished, Amanda and I took care of the clean up. With the two of us working, it was finished in only a few minutes, since we just had salad bowls and forks to worry about.

 "Instead of the usual after-dinner coffee, tonight, why don't we have tea, instead?" Grandma suggested. "It'll relax us and make it easier for us to fall asleep, after the busy day we've all had."

 "That's an excellent idea, Grandma," Mom nodded, rising from the table. 

 She filled the kettle with water and set it on the stove to boil, and then turned to dragging out some mugs and the box of tea bags, dropping one bag into each mug.

 Meanwhile, when we'd finished our dishwashing, Amanda and I had come back to the table. I sat in the chair I'd used for dinner, while my wife took her usual spot on my lap. She lit a cigarette, then put it to my lips for me to catch a quick drag, since my hands were a bit occupied, at the moment. One was holding her on my lap, while the other one was between her thighs, one finger gently rubbing her clit. I was getting exactly the results I wanted, as she was quickly becoming very swollen, wet, and aroused.

 After a few minutes, the teakettle began to whistle, and Amanda took full advantage of the fact to stand up and get a bit of relief from the 'torture' I'd been inflicting on her. She filled the mugs with the boiling water, placed one each in front of Mom and Grandma, and two in front of me. 

 She slid into my lap, again, flashing me a naughty grin as my hand resumed its covert activity between her thighs. Her vulva hadn't had time enough for the swelling to go down, and her clit was now protruding from beneath its hood. She was beginning to fidget on my lap, and the skin on her upper chest was beginning to flush, a sure sign of her level of arousal. I stopped teasing her with my fingers just before she came, simply to tease her. She took a long drag from the cigarette, exhaled, and leaned close to kiss me and then put her lips to my ear.

 "You're just plain mean, Honey!" she whispered.

 I brushed her hair back with my nose and gently licked her ear as I fingered her again. 

 "I'm just payin' you back, for this afternoon," I whispered back.

 I let my wife calm down, while we sat and drank our tea, chatting idly about what we'd accomplished with the day that was ending, and what we had planned for the next one.

 "Mike, I'm goin' to bed," Grandma said, as she drained the last of her tea from her mug and placed it on the table. "You need to take that wife o' yours to bed, an' give her what she's achin' for. You've been sittin' there, getting' her all hot an' bothered for the last half hour, so it's high time you go and finish what you started."

 "Who? Me?" I asked, trying to look all sweet and innocent.

 "Don't even try to deny it, boy, 'cause I know what you were doin'!" she chuckled at me.

 I couldn't put anything past Grandma. She seemed to know me better than Mom did – though, judging from the expression on Mom's face, at the moment, my actions weren't exactly a secret from her, either.

 "You seem to forget what I keep tellin' you, Mike," Mom laughed. If you can think o' doin' it, like as not we did it, years ago. Besides that, our noses still work."

 Amanda stubbed the cigarette out in the ashtray on the table, and slid off of my lap, so that we could escort Grandma back to her bedroom. We made a brief stop at the bathroom, and I waited outside until she'd finished. By the time I got her to the bedroom, Mom had her bed covers neatly pulled down. Amanda and I gave her a brief goodnight kiss, and then retreated to the hallway to allow Mom to assist her out of her robe and into bed.

 "I'm goin' to bed, myself," Mom informed us, as she left Grandma's bedroom and closed the door behind her. "Y'all be sure to lock up, for the night, okay?"

 "Go get ready, Sugar," I grinned at Amanda. "I'll take care of the lockin' up, and join you in a few minutes."

 My first stop was the kitchen, where I cleaned off the table. I washed the mugs and sat them in the drain basket on the counter, so they'd be ready for coffee, in the morning. I also emptied the used grounds in the basket of the coffee pot, rinsed and dried it, and filled it with fresh grounds for morning. Filling the coffee pot with water, I sat it on the counter and grabbed a piece of paper off of a notepad we kept there. After writing a brief note for whoever got up first, next morning, that all they needed to do is turn on a burner on the stove and set the coffee pot on it, I turned out the lights in the kitchen and made my way to Amanda's and my bedroom. What a sight waited for me, there!

 My lovely bride lounged, casually, utterly naked, in the middle of our new bed. She'd taken time to put on a light touch of lipstick and brush out her hair until it softly framed her face. Her eyes smoldered as she looked up at me when I entered the bedroom, and smoke curled upward from the freshly lit cigarette perched between the first two fingers of her right hand.

 "Get them clothes off, and bring that big dick over here, husband!" she commanded, her words punctuated with little puffs of exhaled smoke. "You teased me long enough, and now it's time to give me what I want!"

 I lost no time, stripping out of my robe and underwear, and slid across the new mattress to lie next to her. I reached for her, but she fended me off with her hand.

 "Oh, no, Big Boy," she chuckled quietly; utter naughtiness flashing like sparks from her eyes. "It's my turn to tease YOU, now!"

 So saying, she slid downward alongside my body, until she had my dick at eye-level. Then, taking a drag, she switched the cigarette to her left hand and took hold of my dick with her right. Curling her lips, she proceeded to blow a series of three perfect smoke rings around my cock before the first one broke apart, and then engulfed me with her mouth. Rapidly, she bobbed her head up and down, quickly bringing me to a boil, and then stopped.

 "What're you doin, Sugar?" I groaned.

 "Payin' you back for teasin' me, that way, after dinner," she laughed quietly. 

 She kept on with her little tease, blowing smoke rings on me and then sucking me, until the cigarette was nearly spent. Then, stubbing it out in an ashtray that sat on a little shelf in the headboard, she gently pushed me to one side and slid herself onto her back, legs spread and knees raised.

 "Bet your Mama wonders why I asked her to teach me how to blow smoke rings," she smiled naughtily at me.

 "I'll bet you she don't," I chuckled. "Remember what she said – if we can think it up, odds are it's already been done, and probably by her."

 "Did she ever do that, to you, Honey?"

 "If she had, I'd have already taught you how to blow smoke rings," I shook my head, grinning. "So, now what are we gonna do?"

 She leaned up and kissed me deeply, then stretched out on the mattress.

 "Honey, you're gonna do what Grandma said, and give me what I want!" she informed me. "You've played with my pussy and got me all stirred up. I want you to give me your dick!"

 I rose up on my hands and knees, above her, and she grasped my penis and guided me into her warm, wet vagina. As I pushed home, her hand shifted and she began to play with her clit as we began the horizontal tango of love.

My playing with her in the kitchen had her in a high state of arousal, to start. Watching my darling, I could see her arousal build until she was very close.

 Finally she exploded in a quaking, shuddering, screaming orgasm. I was caught in a vise as Amanda came. Amanda took a finger from her other hand and pushed it into my anus. I was already close and the finger invasion set me off too. I shot cum into my darling Amanda as she held me to her.

 When she started to relax, I rolled onto my back with her on top. She rode me for a few moments, until she could see by my face how sensitive I was getting, then rose up until I came out of her. Then she turned and presented her pussy to me. I licked her clean while she slurped the combination of her cum and mine from my dick. At length, she finished and, turning around again, snuggled in beside me. We shared a cigarette and passionate kisses as we cooled off.

 "Sugar, we need to hit the shower," I told her, after we'd relaxed a bit.

 "I suppose so," she sighed, "though I hate to pull my body away from yours."

 To tell the honest truth, I felt the same way, but we needed to get the juices and aroma left over from our little romp washed off of us, so we reluctantly slipped out of bed and padded into the bathroom. I turned on the shower, to let the water warm up, holding my hand in the spray until I felt that the temperature was worth exposing the rest of my body to.

 "It's warm enough, now, Sugar," I told her, and then followed her into the overly large shower area, watching as she squatted over the drain in the center of the floor.

 "What're you doin'?" I asked her.

 "Peein'," she giggled as her stream started. "What's it look like I'm doin'?"


I watched until she'd finished, soaping up a washcloth, and then I proceeded to wash her body. I may have paid more attention to cleaning some parts of her, than others, but I didn't mind, and she didn't seem to mind it all that much, either.

 "You do realize," she finally told me, "that, if you keep washin' my clit like that, we're gonna wind up getting' dirty, all over again."

 "Well, seein' as we're in the shower, I guess we'd be in the right place for it," I laughed.

 "Well, I guess we're gonna do it in the shower at some point or other," she giggled. "Might as well be tonight..."

 She stepped under the spray and turned slowly, letting the water rinse all of the suds from her luscious body. When she was finished, she dropped gently to her knees.

 "Come here, big boy," she leered, beckoning me with one index finger.

 I stepped closer, and she took my dick in her hand and pulled me the rest of the way. When I was close enough, she leaned in and took me in her mouth. She only spent a minute or so, sucking on me, but that was all I really needed, as I'd been pretty hard just from having spent all that time washing her.

 "Alright," she giggled. "You're good and hard, now. How do you wanna do this, cowboy?"

 I just smiled, silently putting my hands to her waist and guiding her backwards until her back was against the tile wall. Then, moving my hands to under her shoulders, I lifted her up. She quickly got the idea, and began to wrap her legs around me, centering my dick at the opening of her pussy with one hand. Thanks to our earlier loving, she was very ready to receive me into her. 

 Once she was seated firmly, I leaned her against the wall and started to pummel into her. Her passionate moans echoed strangely in the confines of the shower stall, and the water cascading over us helped our bodies slide delightfully against one another. She held on for dear life as I gave her all I had to give.

 By this time, we'd made love to each other often enough that we were starting to become familiar with each other's 'body language', and so I could fairly often tell when she was fixing to cum, and she was pretty good at judging me. She must have felt the slight increased hardening of my dick, and seen the urgency in my facial expression.

 "Pull out, Mike!" she commanded me, suddenly.

 I wasn't really sure why she wanted that, since I knew that she was taking birth control pills so as not to get pregnant until we decided that we were ready to start a family. Still, it's always good to do what your wife wants, if it's reasonable, so I lifted her off of me and stepped back a half-pace, setting her on her feet again.

 "Give me all of it, Honey!" she groaned desperately, dropping to her knees. She pulled me close and wrapped her lips around the head of my dick. I got the message, and let myself go, filling her mouth with my cum. This was a thing she'd only done on a couple occasions, since the first time we made love to each other, and I was still worried that she'd choke or gag, or that she'd find the taste to be something she didn't like. I watched closely, as she drained me into her mouth, then pulled her lips from me.

 She tried to smile up, at me, but the movement only caused trickles of cum to leak from the corners of her mouth. Hastily, she tipped her head upward and scraped the leakage back into her mouth with a fingertip. Then she opened her mouth to display what it held, her eyes latched onto mine and not leaving them or blinking until she'd made me watch her swallow every last drop.

 With a look on her face like the cat that swallowed the cream (yeah, the pun is intended!) she rose to her feet and stepped close, kissing me and sliding her tongue into my mouth to share the last taste. For me, the taste of my seed wasn't anything either good or bad, but taking it from my lover's tongue made it something special and good.

 "You taste so good, Honey," she told me, as our kiss ended. "Sometimes, I just can't decide whether I want you to cum in my pussy, or in my mouth. I figured you'd already pumped my pussy full, tonight, so I wanted to taste you again. You don't mind, do you?"

 I got this quick mental image of the times, in the locker room after gym class, at school, when I'd overheard various guys complaining that their girlfriends wouldn't let a dick get anywhere near their mouths, and I just had to laugh.

 "What's so funny?" she demanded.

 "Sugar, if you only knew how many guys would envy me if they could see what you just did..."

 "I guess that's so, Honey," she nodded, grinning. "I've heard plenty of girls complaining that their guys want them to do that, but they don't like the taste. Personally, I think you taste scrumptious – in fact, you're my new favorite flavor – but, let's let that be our private pleasure, can we?"

 "Mama taught me not to kiss and tell, Sugar," I nodded. "What we do, when the door closes, ain't nobody's business but ours!"

 Well, we'd gone and gotten dirty, again, so that meant we had to clean up, and we had just a little more fun washing each other off. Then we rinsed and had some more fun drying each other off, slowly and tenderly. We spent a couple minutes cleaning up the bathroom, and then headed for bed. Slipping between the sheets, we cuddled up in the middle, with Amanda on my right side. After sharing one last cigarette, we turned the lamps off and settled down, snuggled against each other. After a minute or two, Amanda rolled over onto her left side, draping her right leg and arm across me.

 "Thank you for all the lovin', Honey," she murmured into my ear. "I really needed that, and you did me real good!"

 "That's all thanks to you, Sugar," I replied, stroking her cheek. "You inspired me."

 "Who?" she giggled softly. "Lil' old me?"

 "There's nothin' either little OR old, about you, Darlin'," I told her, gently cupping one of her luscious breasts. "And, much as I'd love to continue this, we need to get to sleep. Mom's on one of her vacation stretches, this week, but I have to work tomorrow, and you've got school. We're snuggled in, nice and cozy, so lets get our goodnight kisses and then get some sleep.'

 "Alright," she sighed.

 "Huh?" I asked.

 "Sorry," she giggled. "It's just that makin' love with you is so damned good that it's just plain hard to stop – even when we have to."

 "You don't have to tell me that, Sugar," I agreed, as I leaned in and kissed her lips softly. "Good night, Darlin'. Pleasant dreams."

 "Goodnight, my love," she replied.

 It's funny, considering the things we'd just said to each other, but I really don't remember drifting off to sleep, it happened that fast.

 *** 

 We got up early, the next morning, and figured – from the quiet that filled the house – that we were the first ones up, but we were wrong. Grandma and Mom had beat us to the kitchen. They had the coffee made and were sitting at the table when Amanda and I entered the kitchen.

 "Well, how did the new bed work out?" Grandma asked us with a grin that was a tad on the wicked side.

 Amanda walked over to bend down and give Grandma a hug, while I took care of getting coffee for both of us.

 "It was wonderful, Grandma," she told her. "The mattress is very comfortable. "Thank you so very much, for getting it for us!"

 "I was listenin', and I didn't hear nothin' goin' on," Mom teased. "Y'all weren't that tuckered out, were you?"

 "The new foundation is very quiet, Mom," I tossed back at her with a grin. "And, after y'all got things organized in the bedroom, last evening, I took the time to move the bed out so that the headboard is two inches from the wall, so there's no bangin'."

 "I guess that'd explain the lack o' noise," Mom giggled. "Well, daughter, I reckon we oughtta get breakfast ready."

 "Okay, Mama Patsy," Amanda replied.

 Between the two women, they had sausage, biscuits, oven fries, and eggs on plate and on the table in a very short time, and we tucked in to eat.

 "How'd you sleep, last night, Grandma?" Amanda asked "I know that sleepin' in a new bed can feel a bit strange, 'til you get used to it."

 "I slept just fine, granddaughter," Grandma smiled around a mouthful of sausage. Don't y'all worry, about me."

 "Like you tellin' us that would stop us!" I snorted.

 We polished off breakfast fairly quickly, since Amanda and I had things on our schedule for the day. I helped my wife with the clean up, afterward, and we were just finishing as Larry and Karen arrived.

 "I'm gonna be a little late gettin' home, this afternoon," Amanda informed us. "I'm gonna run by my folks' house, this afternoon. I need to start typin' up my history paper. "I'm figurin' about three good evenin's to get most of it done. It's due the end of next week."




Amanda Pt. 06



"Can I do that, for you, Amanda?" Karen offered. "I've taken three years of typing, at school, and I can type pretty near sixty words a minute. Would that help?"

 "Karen, you're a wonder!" Amanda said. "The best I can type is about thirty words a minute. That'd be a big help. How much do you want me to pay you for the typin'?" 

 "Nothin'," she said, "ya'll are already payin' me for doin' a little cleanin' and cookin' here and it don't take all day to do that. I'll do it just to have somethin' else to do durin' the day."

 "Sugar, you said we needed a typewriter for the office. Where can we get a good electric typewriter? And what about the rest of the office supplies?" I asked.

 "If you have a list, I could get it for you while I'm out today." Mom offered.

 "The list is on the desk, in the shop. We could bring the typewriter and some of the paper here to the house and leave everything else in the office," Amanda said.

 "I'll grab the list and bring it to you when Larry and I leave to go do our install this mornin'," I said.

 "She'll need a check, to pay for it all, too," Amanda reminded me, as she left the kitchen. She returned a minute or so later, with her briefcase. Opening it, she pulled out the company checkbook, made a partial entry in the log, and then tore out a check. We both signed it, and passed it to Mom.

 Larry took a long moment to swap kisses with Karen, while I saw to it that my wife left for school with her head spinning from the kiss I gave her. She tagged along behind me as we headed out the back door.

 Amanda got in her car and headed off to school, with a wave out her window. Meanwhile, Larry and I got in the truck and drove it down to the shop, backing up to the overhead door. We were just opening up for the day as John, Jim, and George arrived.

 I tucked Amanda's list of needed office supplies into my shirt pocket, after scribbling 'typewriter' at the bottom of the list. Larry took care of starting a pot of coffee while I went over the day's work with John. First on their list was finishing up the cabinets for the Nu Way job, and – with whatever amount of day they had left, starting the work on the cabinets for Maggie's kitchen remodel. Larry and I hooked up the trailer and double-checked to see that we had all of the tools we needed, for the install.

 "Are you gonna have a sign painted on the trailer to match the ones at the shop?" Larry asked, with a chuckle.

 "I need to do that, don't I?" I asked. "I shoulda said somethin' to that sign painter, when he was here. I'll have to contact him and see what it'll cost. That'd be free advertisin' every time we have the trailer out."

 We headed up the lane, stopping at the house long enough for me to take Amanda's shopping list in and give it to Mom, and then headed off to do our work for the day.

 The installation job went fairly quickly, with everything fitting as perfectly as I'd expected it to. After the last cabinet was in place and anchored, we trimmed the top of the overhead cabinets with bed mould and the ends with cove moulding. I'd given Raymond a heads-up that we'd be doing the install on this house, today, and he came by as we were hanging the last couple of doors. 

 "Everything looks good, Mike," he said, smiling broadly. "But, then, I wouldn't have expected to see anything else. I'll get your check cut this afternoon, and drop it by the shop." 

 We returned to the shop about mid-afternoon, and I backed the trailer into the shop so we could load the next job. The shop crew was well on the way to having their work completed, so I called NuWay's office to tell them their job would be delivered Thursday morning. Larry and I loaded all of the completed cabinets onto the trailer, and worked in the shop the rest of the day.

 When Mom came back from her shopping trip, she drove to the shop so we could unload her car. There were boxes of file folders, reams of paper, and other miscellaneous office supplies. We stacked everything in Amanda's temporary office. I left the typewriter and one ream of paper to unload at the house.

 While the shop crew was finishing the day, John and I started looking at the plans Mr. Richards had left with us. We were looking at the features, in particular the cathedral raised panel doors.

 "I need to buy some Ponderosa pine so we can experiment with buildin' these doors." I commented.

 "Yeah, they're different. We'll really get some use out of that band saw, blankin' out the curved panel tops and top rails of those doors," was John's comment.

 "I'm gonna try and figure out a way to build a jig that'll save us some time. As many of these as we'll have to do, it'll be worth it," I told him.

 "Actually," John suggested, "didn't you say that their cabinet maker was retiring? Maybe he's got some jigs that he uses, for makin' those doors, and would be willing to sell 'em to you. Sure be worth a call..."

 "You're right, John," I nodded. "Why invent the wheel, if someone else already has? I'll give Richards a call, and see if he'll tell me who the cabinetmaker is, and where his shop is. It might be worth a visit, to see if he's got jigs and fixtures I can buy, since he's been buildin' this type of door and he's closin' down at the end of the year."

 I went into the office area and closed the door, to block out some of the shop noise, and put in a call to Harrison Richards.

 "Mike! Hello!" Harrison greeted me when his secretary put the call through to him. "I hadn't expected to hear from you quite so soon. What can I do for you?"

 "Well, Harrison, it's like this," I explained. "You mentioned that you're takin' A and M Woodworking as a subcontractor for your cabinets because your current sub is retiring at the end of the year."

 "Yeah, that's true," Harrison replied. "His boy went off to college and then got a real nice job with NASA, in Florida. There's a couple o' grandkids, now, and Fred's wife would like to live a lot closer to 'em."

 "That's definitely a Grandma thing," I chuckled. "Well, the reason I'm callin' you is that it occurred to me that – if this fella's been buildin' your cabinets for years, he's probably got some custom-made fixtures and jigs to help make the construction go more quickly. I'd like to get hold of him, and see if he has any such things, and if they'd be for sale."

 "Excellent idea, Mike!" Harrison enthused. "Why spend time reinventing the wheel, right?"

 "Exactly!"

 "Well, I've been to his shop, and I know for a fact that he does have some pretty nice jigs and fixtures for cutting and assembling cabinets. Since he's retiring in a few weeks, I don't see why he wouldn't make them available to you at a good price. Why don't you give him a call? His name is Fred Thompson, and his phone number is Lyric-5-2367. Excuse me. That would be 595-2367. I hate this damned new-fangled 'digit dialing' crap! Worst damned thing that A T and T ever decided to do. The old exchange names were so much easier to remember!"

 "I can't fault you on that count, Harrison," I laughed. "Matter of fact, I heard this funny song, on the radio, the other day. It's by Allan Sherman, the same guy that did the 'Camp Granada' song? This one's all about some guy who's trying to drum up a huge, nationwide protest march against the phone company over this digit dialing stuff. It's hilarious!"

 "I'll have to be on the lookout for that one, Mike," Harrison chuckled. "I haven't heard it, yet."

 "You'll enjoy it, I think," I told him. "Thanks for the information, Harrison. I'll give Mr. Thompson a call, right now."

 I dialed Fred Thompson, next, and spent a moment introducing myself and then explained my reason for calling. Fred invited me to drop by his shop, in Tyler, the next morning, to take a look at his jigs and fixtures, and talk prices. He mentioned that all of his other shop tools and machines were for sale, as well. I covered the mouthpiece for a moment, and opened the door into the shop.

 "John," I called out, "Can you cover the shop for me, tomorrow morning? This guy wants me to come see his jigs and fixtures, and talk prices. I'll get the shop open for you, and then head out."

 "Sure thing, Mike," John agreed.

 "Thanks, John!" I told him, closing the door and returning to my call.

 "Thanks for holding on, Fred," I told Thompson. "I had to make sure that my shop foreman could get here about a half hour early, to cover for me, while I come look at your equipment. It'll take me a bit to get to you, since I'm up just outa Gilmer. How would 9:00 suit you?"

 "Suits me fine, Mike," Thompson replied. "Just to let you know, I've got a fair stock of four-by-eight sheets of cabinet plywood, in oak, ash, and maple, and they're for sale, as well."

 "Great!" I said. I just might be able to take those off your hands, if the price is right. I'll see you, tomorrow, then."

 When I returned to the shop area, John was eager to find out the results of my phone call.

 "He's got jigs and fixtures, for sale, and the rest of his tools and machines are for sale, as well, so I may buy a few more items. He also told me that he's got a pile of full sheets of cabinet plywood, so I'll talk price on those, with him, too," I filled John in on the results of my call.

 "Sounds like you might have lucked into a sweet deal, Mike," John said, with a grin. "Man – getting' this farm, marryin' a right pretty girl, and now this! Wish I had your luck!"

 Amanda breezed into the shop about the time we were shutting down for the day. She wrapped me in a big hug, and laid a potent kiss on my lips, which brought a round of chuckles from the crew.

 "Hi guys. Ya'll been keepin' this one straight?" she asked them, bringing another round of applause and laughter that took a minute to die down.

 "We've been workin' hard on it, without a lot of success," John reported.

 "Watch out, now," I cautioned him. "I'm still the boss, you know!"

 "Yeah, but she signs my paycheck," he laughed.

 The guys were still laughing about that comment, five minutes later, as they filed out the door to head home.

 I locked up the shop, leaving my truck there, and Amanda and I walked up to the house. Larry and Karen were just leaving, so we said another round of goodbyes, and then Amanda and I went into the house. Mom met us at the door, with hugs and kisses for both of us.

 "Somethin' smells mighty good!" I exclaimed, sniffing the air in the kitchen.

 "Karen started dinner awhile ago," Mom said. "Grandma and I have the table all set, so we can eat as soon as you get cleaned up, Mike."

 Amanda joined me in the shower – not that she really needed it, after a day of sitting in classrooms – and, somehow, I managed to pay more attention to getting my body clean than to my naked wife. We dried, dressed in some clean clothes, and headed for the dinner table. Dinner was Grandma's fried chicken, gravy, and mashed potatoes, and some cream-style corn, and it all smelled very good.

 "So, how was your shopping trip, today, Mom?" I asked her, as we ate.

 "I was able to get y'all three sets of sheets and pillowcases," Mom said. "I also picked up everything on Amanda's list. Baby, you'll need to get the typewriter and paper out of my car, in the morning, so that Karen can have it to use. So how did your day go?"

 "Larry and I got our install done, with no problems," I told her, "and I made an appointment to go to Tyler, tomorrow, to meet with the cabinetmaker that we're replacin'. He's got some jigs and fixtures, in his shop, that I want to see about buyin' for our use. If I can get 'em at a decent price, it'll make our job a lot easier, down the road."

 "That's wonderful, Mike!" Amanda exclaimed.

 "I agree, Mike," Mom chimed in. "You might also give a thought – if the guy's tools are in decent shape – to making him an offer for everything in his shop. Tools wear out, after awhile, so you'd have some replacement tools to move into place right away, rather than having a hold-up in some project while you wait for a new machine. Remember, I have a tidy sum of money saved up from what you've given me, over the years."

 "How much money is there?" I asked her.

 "I'd have to double-check the savings account book, on it," Mom said, but it's north of eight thousand, at least. I saved it all, in case you ever needed it, and this might be a good use for some of it."

 "Thanks, Mom," I nodded. "I'll bear that in mind, when I look over what the guy has."

 There was more small talk, over the meal, and eventually I pushed my plate back, just about stuffed.

 "Grandma, I don't know what your secret is, but you need to show Amanda what you do to your fried chicken and gravy," I said. "If she had that secret to go along with her biscuits, I know what I'd be wantin' a couple o' times a week."

 "If you ate like you want to, I'd have to roll you to the shop every mornin'," Amanda replied drolly, which brought a laugh from the other two. "I guess I'm gonna have to make you exercise more."

 "You've already got me doin' them special push-ups, every night, woman!" I teased her. "What more do you want?"

 "The recipe for the fried chicken is in my cookbook," Grandma said. "It's not all that hard, really. Karen made what you just polished off, readin' right from my recipe. Larry's gonna be a lucky man. Karen's turnin' into a pretty good cook. She asked me to help her make some cookies today in between her cleanin' and laundry. She did a really good job on 'em. A little more practice and she's gonna be as good as either of you two settin' here."

 Mom, Amanda, and I cleaned up the kitchen after we finished eating, and then we all went into the living room to watch television before going to bed.

 *** 

 That noisy alarm clock woke us again, the next morning. We dragged ourselves out of bed, washed up and got dressed, and then made the bed before heading for breakfast. Mom apparently already had coffee made, and was busy cooking breakfast, because the tantalizing aromas of coffee and fried bacon reached our nostrils long before we reached the kitchen.

 "Morning, you two," Mom greeted us cheerily. "I'll have ya'll's plates ready in a jiff, so grab a chair."

 I poured coffees for Amanda and me, and took a seat at the table.

 "Amanda, I need you to sign a check for me before you leave for school," I reminded her.

 "Sure thing, Honey, I'll get it as soon as we're done eatin'," she said brightly. "Do you think you're gonna find much, there?"

 "The guy said he had a set of jigs he used for runnin' those doors. If we can reach a price I can stand, I think there'll be everything we'll need," I said. 

 "Mornin'," Grandma greeted us, as she slid into a chair at the table.

 Amanda got her a cup of coffee and brought it to her. 

 "How'd you sleep, last night, Grandma?" she asked.

 "Just fine, child," Grandma smiled.

 "So, what's everyone doin', today?" I asked.

 "I'll be takin' Grandma to her doctor's appointment, later this mornin'," Mom answered.

 "And I've got classes 'til noon," Amanda added. "I'll be home around 1:30, or so, and talk to Karen about the typing work."

 That reminded me, so I got the typewriter and paper from Mom's car and brought them in, putting them on the table Grandma had, in the old 'courting parlor' next to the living room.

 "It's all in, and only needs settin' up, Sugar," I told Amanda when I returned to the table to finish my breakfast.

 I left for the shop before Amanda left for school, and opened up and started the coffee. The rest of the crew came trickling in about five minutes to seven, and John and I laid out the day's work orders for them. First in line was finishing off the cabinets for the Thursday delivery, and getting them onto the trailer. After that, they were to finish machining the parts and begin assembling Maggie's cabinets. They dug in and were all busily working when I left to head for the cabinet shop over in Tyler.

 The drive wasn't bad, and I arrived at the shop to find the owner, Fred Thompson, waiting for me. We shook hands in introduction, and then he showed me around his shop, which was a bit larger than mine. We spent some time discussing the cabinets that he'd been building for Harrison's homes, and he showed me the jigs he used, explaining how they worked, even cutting a couple pieces of scrap pine to demonstrate them for me.

 Eventually, we got around to discussing prices on the fixtures and jigs, and I just had to ask him one question, first.

 "If you don't mind," I put it to him, "Why are you retirin', Fred? You really don't look all that old."

 That much was the God's honest truth. His face didn't have that many lines on it, yet, and his full head of hair was just starting to show a tinge of gray at the temples.

 "Well, Mike," he laughed, "I've gotta thank you for the compliment. Truth is, I just turned the big five-oh, last month. I've been workin' this business since I was younger'n you, I reckon. My boy went off to college and got himself a good job at the NASA place, in Florida. He's married, with a couple o' kids, and the wife wants to move there so's she can spoil our grandbabies. What can I say? I've made good money, here, and saved up enough that we oughtta be okay. Didn't hurt, none, that they found a big pocket o' natural gas under my land, and we're gettin' a nice check for the royalty, every month."

 "Well, I'm prepared to make you an offer for these fixtures and jigs," I told him, "but what're you gonna do with the rest o' the stuff?"

 "I'm probably gonna put it up for auction, after the fifteenth of December," he shrugged. "I figger if I can get five-six thousand for the lot, I'll be happy."

 "Well, before we talk any further, let me go do a little calculatin', to see if I can give you a decent price for the whole shootin' match," I suggested.

 I stepped outside and went and sat on the tailgate of my truck, lighting up a cigarette while I ran the deal through my mind. Fred had a pair of nice router tables, along with commercial routers and a sizable collection of router bits – some of which hadn't been included in that batch of surplus tools I'd bought from Raymond. He also had a wall-mounted contraption that allowed for making horizontal and vertical cuts in full four-foot by eight-foot sheets of plywood or paneling, which was easily worth several hundred dollars, by itself.

 I thought a bit, about what Mom had suggested, regarding buying all of Fred's tools and machines. It made sense, but only if the equipment was still in good shape. Most of Fred's stuff had seen its better days. While they might make good 'emergency' spares, I couldn't count on them lasting for a very long time. In the long run, I decided that – if I was going to spend some of the money Mom had saved for me – it'd be more worthwhile to spend it on new equipment.

 I went back inside, and made Fred an offer on the two router tables and routers, and all the tooling that went with them, plus the panel-cutting unit, along with the jigs and fixtures I'd originally come to look at. We haggled a bit, and eventually came to an agreement on a slightly higher price, and then settled on a date – December 16th – for me to come and pick up my purchases. I wrote him out a check for half of what we'd agreed on, as a down payment on the lot, with the balance to be paid in December, when I picked up the load.

 "Would you be interested in some lumber?" he asked me, then.

 "I might be," I offered. "Depends on what you've got, and how much you want for it."

 He led me out the rear door of his shop, and opened the doors to a big shed that was standing a few feet away. Inside, neatly stacked flat on some old wooden pallets, were several stacks of cabinet-grade plywood panels, four feet by eight feet. There looked to be enough panels to make the cabinets for several average sized kitchens, in oak, ash, and maple.