13 comments/ 53672 views/ 18 favorites Close to Home Ch. 01-07 By: Pearson21 CHAPTER ONE: An Education There are some things about growing up in a small community that can be a pain. When you do something stupid people are not afraid to call your parents and let them know. But, there are advantages as well. You learn everything that is really important in life very early on. Things like the value of hard work, faith, sense of community and patriotism. But the most important thing you learn is the value of family. When it really comes down to it family is the only thing that will matter from start to finish in life. I learned this lesson in the life from a unique teacher, my uncle Bobby. Bobby is my dad's accidental brother' Bobby was born only five years before me. I thought he was the coolest uncle on the planet. While my dad and grandfather worked the fields of our family farm, Bobby would lead me in the smaller tasks that we were assigned thus teaching me about farming along the way. After the chores were done my true instruction began. Bobby taught me to swim, fish, throw football, field grounders, and to fight. Besides Bobby and me, there were other cousins of mine (two boys and three girls ages eight to thirteen) in the same area and we all attended the same school. The community schools sat on the same road, the primary and junior high on one side and the high school on the other. Booby was a senior in high school when he taught me one of life's most valuable lessons. As an eighth grader I had decided to try out for the high school junior varsity baseball team and Bobby helped me prepare as he was the starting shortstop on the varsity unit. Things went well and I made the team. The roster was posted and as was tradition, each senior player chose a JV player to be their understudy. That really meant their slave for the first two weeks of practice. Bobby chose me. I thought that I had lucked out; as he was my uncle he would go easy on me. I was so very wrong. Every day it was extra; extra push ups, fielding, batting, sliding, and extra running. I was so sore and tired. On the last day of apprentice weeks Bobby decided to run the ten extra laps with me. "You've done good Andy" he said as we ran. Oh, I guess I should have told you before now; I'm Andy or Andrew Cole Quinn if it's important. Anyway, Bobby went on to tell me it was a big deal that if I was to lead my team I had to show everybody that I was willing to do the work and not rely on the fact that my last name was Quinn, or that the coach was my third cousin. It was good advice because as an eighth grader I started on the J.V. team at second base. The next year I was on the varsity team as back-up catcher, and my sophomore year I was again starting at second. By my junior year, Bobby had gone into the marines and gotten married. I had a girlfriend for the first time in my life. Things were going well for me. I had been getting letters from several Division One programs interested in recruiting me for baseball, my grades were good and every Friday and Saturday night I was out doing stuff with my girlfriend Janet. In late Summer I learned that my uncle Bobby was being deployed to the Middle East for a year. He and Aunt Teresa asked me to spend a few weeks with them during the summer. I was eager to meet Bobby's wife. I had never met her as she and Uncle Bobby eloped during her spring break from university. I knew she had to be pretty because every girl he ever dated was a knock out. All the arrangements were made and I took the train up to where they live near Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. As I stepped onto the platform that day I was greeted by the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. She was about five foot four with reddish brown hair and eyes that were the exact same color as her hair. She was incredible! No wonder Why Uncle Bobby married her! "Hello, you must be Andy!" she spoke before I had really taken her all in, "Bobby talks about you all the time. He keeps up with your scores and stats too. I'm Teresa." I was dumb struck and unable to speak. I simply nodded, smiled and hurried past to give Uncle Bobby a hug and a handshake. My palms were sweaty and my heart boomed like a bass drum. From the moment I saw her I was smitten. Aunt Teresa made a special effort to make me feel comfortable around her, speaking in soft cheerful tones. Since Teresa and I were just over two years apart in age she was really easy to get along with and talk to. She and I had a lot of things in common like music, movies and TV shows that we liked. I guess my job was to keep her mind off of Uncle Bobby and the danger he faced during his deployment. I really was happy to help. Teresa wasn't' just a beautiful face, she was also beautiful person. And I truly liked being around her. The time spent with them in North Carolina passed much too quickly. But we had lots of fun days. We went to Raleigh to see a baseball game, toured the base where Bobby was stationed, had a pig picking' (that's a whole hog barbecue), and went fishing a few times. It was some of the best times I had ever had. But, it ended much too soon and I was on my way home to the farm. CHAPTER TWO: Dancing in the moonlight My senior year in High School went well. I had made a decision to play baseball at Coastal Carolina near Myrtle Beach and only a couple of hours from home so my parents could see me play. As the year went on, things progressed well with Janet and I asked her to the prom. I made plans to make the night a big deal. I rented a tuxedo, and borrowed my mom's brother, Uncle Mikes old Jaguar to drive. All of my friends were going with their girls and we had planned an after prom party at my friend Matt's cabin by the lake. Maybe something really big would happen! On the Thursday morning before the prom on Saturday the phone rang. It was Janet. I could tell she had been crying. She said that her grandmother had had a severe stroke and had been taken to the hospital in Charlotte. Her family was leaving right away to go as the doctors said her grandmother may not live through the night. She said that she would call soon. I told her that I understood and would be praying for her grandmother. She then said a quiet "Goodbye." Now I hated the news about Janet's grandmother but I also hated that she would not be back in time for prom. I know it was a little selfish but it was my senior year and I had high hopes for afterward! Besides all of the money I had spent. My mom asked what the call was about and I told her. Mom was concerned about Janet's grandmother but also was sad for me too. She asked if there were any other girls that I could ask, or if any of the guys were going stag as she called it. My silence gave all the answer that she needed. She walked out the door saying that she was going to her sewing bee and that she would try to figure something out, and she was gone. The only thing I wanted to do was to wallow in self pity. After school on Friday I drug into the house and slumped down on the couch still in a pouting mood, when the phone rang. My mom answered in the other room. I was startled when mom called me to the phone. In no hurry to be bothered, I slowly made my way to the phone. Placing the receiver to my ear I made a weak "Hello." I was surprised to hear Aunt Teresa's voice on the phone. "Andy, I heard about your problem about the prom. I'm sorry and I hope your girlfriend's grandma does well." Even when she was trying to be sympathetic she sounded cheerful! "I have an offer for you. I know this girl who is just a little older than you. Because she was home schooled, she didn't get to attend a prom. I know she would be happy, no thrilled, to go with such a great guy." "I don't know Aunt T." I whined, "I don't know her. What if we don't even like one another?" "She's a lot like me. You'll be fine. Don't miss your senior prom!" was her response. "By the way, her name is Reese." I nearly dropped the phone as I realized it was she that was offering to go with me! A chance to go to the prom with the most beautiful woman I knew, and was a college junior to boot! I went from moping to ecstatic in a millisecond. I got no sleep at all that night, and was up early washing and waxing the Jag! I was more anxious than I could ever remember. Finally, it was late enough for me to go pick up my "date" from my grandparents. With great anticipation I knocked on my grandparent's door. I had never had to knock before, but tonight this was Aunt Teresa's or "Reese" house. The senior Mr. Quinn, my grandpa, opened the door and invited me in explaining that Teresa would be a few minutes yet. Grandpa invited me to take a seat and wait. It was during that little wait that he reminded me that I was expected to remain the consummate gentleman all evening, opening doors etc., and then he slipped me a twenty dollar bill to help with diner while shaking my hand. As I caught a glimpse of Aunt T at the head of the stairs I nearly dropped the twenty. She was wearing a modest black off the shoulder gown that was snug enough to accentuate her awesome body with flat stomach, narrow hips, curvy backside, and pert breast. It was a good thing mom thought to buy a wrist corsage as there was no way I could pin one to her gown without passing out. With the pictures taken Aunt Teresa and I made our way to the car. After a mile or so in complete silence, Teresa asked me to find a side street and pull over. Being a little confused, I cautiously complied with her request. Once the car had stopped Teresa turned in her seat and took a deep breath as she spoke. "This is really my first prom and I want to have good time every bit as much as you." "I want you to introduce me to your friends as a family friend named Reese," she said, "That's what my friends at school and Bobby call me most of the time." She continued, "If you and Janet were going to an after party I would like to go if, you don't mind?" She said softly, "I even brought a change of clothes in my purse." I was floored! "Of course I want you to have a good time!" I said slowly. "I just am having a hard time believing that I'm taking such a beautiful date to the prom; even if you are my Aunt." "Not tonight," Reese assured me, "I'm your friend Reese from Jacksonville. Now let's go and have a blast!" We arrived at the prom and walked into the hall without anyone seeing us. I desperately wanted someone I knew to see me with this stunning lady on my arm! Janet was a cute girl, but Reese was drop dead gorgeous! Finally, as we entered the building Mr. Cox, the principle, was there to greet us and welcome us to our prom. He also wanted to check our pockets and Reese's bag for booze. "Mr. Quinn," he called, "good to see you see you and your lovely date." as he looked long and hard at Reese. As we stepped forward he patted me on the shoulder and said "Good job!" Our "Starry, Starry Night" went well with all off my friends and class mates gawking at my beautiful date. A couple of guys asked Reese to dance but she always refused politely saying that she wanted to stay close to me. I felt like the king of the world. When a slow song came up I asked if she wanted to take a break from dancing thinking she wouldn't want to slow dance but was pleasantly surprised when she said no and leaned in close for the dance. It made me very nervous to be so close. I could smell the sweetness of her vanilla and melon scented soap, shampoo and perfume and became aroused. Oh my God! I was getting excited in public over my sexy aunt! How could I explain it away, she had to feel me grow against her. Thankfully the song ended and she said that she needed to excuse herself to the ladies room. Wow! That was so close! About twenty minutes before the time for the prom to end couples started easing out to the after parties. Reese and I followed suit and headed to the car. Once inside the jag I asked if she was sure that she wanted to go. She assured me that she was looking forward to it. Twenty minutes later we were pulling into the drive at Matt's parents' lake cabin. "I've had a great time so far," Reese said, "but I think this will be even more fun out of the dress and all." "It will be more comfortable!" I said; not sure if I really agreed. What will she think about her nephew when she finds out that he is sporting MAJOR wood for her! We went into the house and changed into our casual clothes. I had brought jeans, a button down shirt, and running shoes that would be easy to swap into. Reese had also brought Capri style jeans and a white tank top that clung tightly to her body. She looked incredible. In the cool night air you could just make out the tiny nubs of her nipples through the tight top and thin bra. My jeans were now killing me. The biggest differences in the after party and the prom were the less conservative music, lack of proper supervision and alcohol! There was a keg flowing and everyone it seemed had broken into their parent's liquor cabinet. The party was in full force with every one either dancing, gathering around the bond fire, coupled up making out, or some combination. Reese had a plastic cup filled with beer as did I, and we were casually dancing in the glow of the fire. It was so sexy to be close to her but painful at the same time. I couldn't reach out, take her in my arms and attack her the way that I desperately wanted. It was exhilarating torment! I was still on top of the world as I noticed every guy there was stealing glances at Reese. I was so proud. In all the commotion of the party no one had noticed the clouds rolling in or heard the low rumbling of the thunder over the music. But we all noticed when a bright flash of a lightning bolt split the night. Then the bottom suddenly fell out. Everyone rushed into the small lake house for cover. We were all soaked by the time we got in. Reese was drenched. Her hair a tangled mess and her eye makeup running. I was looking at her and we were laughing when I glanced down at the tank top. Even with her thin bra the shirt was totally transparent. You could easily see her breast in all their beauty with extended nipples from the cold rain. Reese noticed my staring at her and looked down. She quickly crossed her arms across her chest. I looked at her expecting her to respond in anger but was surprised by her expression. I was still inexperienced with women and couldn't read her. I in subsequent years found that the look was one of anticipation. Reese knew there was nothing she could do to remove what I saw from my memory. She was waiting to gauge my expression to determine if I approved of her breast. I must have had the right expression on my face; for as I looked back at her face I saw helplessness for her plight with a glint of a smile peeking out. As my hormonal self-protested, my gallantry began removing my button down shirt. I removed my shirt and gave it to her to wear. She thanked me profusely and asked if I would be OK in just my t-shirt. I assured her I was fine and asked if she wanted to wait out the storm or try and make a dash for the car. She looked around at everyone else who was beginning to couple up to wait out the storm. I blushed. "We probably should head home" she said with a soft tone that seemed slightly disappointed. We made it to the car without being lightning struck and slowly made our way home. I was good to drive since I had nursed only one cup of beer through the night but with the rain I was very careful in the old jag. As I pulled up to my grandparents the rain had become nothing more than sprinkles and I walked Reese to the door. I followed her up the steps trying not to stare the soft curves of her butt. At the door she abruptly turned under the light of the porch light. She was taking off my shirt and thanking me for such a great experience. My eyes could not help but drop to her breast. When I looked back up she was smiling and leaning in. She kissed my lips softly, smiled again, and said in the sexiest voice I had or have ever heard, "My prom was everything I ever dreamt of, Thank you and. . . Goodnight Drew." I have no clue how I got home. No clue what I had for breakfast or anything else that day. I floated for a week. Reese was gone to see her parents before I ever woke Sunday. Aunt Teresa returned to North Carolina later that week and things were back to normal. CHAPTER THREE: What Do May Flowers Bring? Funeral wreaths. On May 18th things took a tragic turn. Janet's grandmother passed but things became worse when the news came that Uncle Bobby was seriously injured in a refueling fire. He was flown to a Navy hospital in Maryland where he survived only three weeks. He was in a lot of pain but was alert. He recognized Aunt Teresa and she stayed by his side every minute. I only got to go to see him for a few minutes. He knew me and smiled at me telling me to watch after Reese for him when he was away. I promised that I would. Pneumonia took him on day twenty-four. Our family was devastated. Aunt Teresa was totally heartbroken. She moved home with her parents, took a semester off from school, and tried to get over the hurt. As time went by I had less contact with her, as did my parents. She said that staying so close made the pain more intense. We understood, kind of, we were all hurting and had to find our own ways to cope. Mine was baseball and school. Later that summer I lost my virginity to Janet who I continued to date into my sophomore year of college. Things came to an end when she had the opportunity to study in Spain. We parted as friends and life began to move on along. My college days passed really quickly. When you go to school at one of the most popular beaches on the east coast it is a blast but hard to study. Baseball is what kept me focused. My career in baseball was going awesome and I was signed to a minor league contract after college with the Cincinnati Reds. I never expected to make it to the big leagues. There are so many players with great talent and too few spots on major league rosters. I had a chance, but only about 50/50. Even if I didn't make it I wanted to give it my best shot and I wanted to play as long as I could. I would be alright as I got a generous signing bonus and I had a degree and a family business to go back to when I was ready. It was baseball that made the biggest change that I could have imagined and it didn't happen on the playing field. I was assigned to the Reds double A team in the Southern League, the Carolina Mudcats. It was pretty good for a rookie to skip single A ball and go straight to double A. I was settling in to my apartment when my phone rang, it was my aunt Teresa. We talked for nearly two hours catching up with each other, she congratulated me on my contract and all that. She also explained how she had returned to school and gotten her degree and had a teaching job only twenty miles from Raleigh and was working on her Master's degree. Teresa wanted to get together and grab a meal which was fine with me. The next evening I drove out to meet Teresa. We had a great time and I was in heaven as she was every bit as beautiful as I remembered. To make my head swell further she kept going on about how handsome I had become. She told me about telling the girls at work that the new short stop took her to her prom. She was glowing and laughing throughout the night until it was time to go. Teresa smiled a thin smile and kissed my cheek goodnight. I didn't know what to say or do. I knew being around each other brought up sad memories for her but not for me. Uncle Bobby was a great influence on me. I will never forget him but Teresa brings me nothing but happiness. I asked shyly if she wanted to see me play. Teresa readily accepted, then confided that she had already seen me play. A few years ago Coastal had played East Carolina in Greenville and she had come out to see me. She said that she had wanted to see me afterward but it was too soon. Of course I understood, but was also kind of sad. Close to Home Ch. 01-07 CHAPTER FOUR: Swing And A Miss The summer flew by. Teresa and I saw each other on a somewhat regular basis, having diner about once a month and her coming to at least one game each home stand. I also found a girlfriend in town to take the edge off so to speak. We both knew it was nothing serious. My team made the playoffs and even made it to the championship series where I had a game winning "walk off" RBI. That win evened the series and the team rushed to meet me at home plate where a "dog pile" ensued. That was the beginning of the end of my baseball career. In the celebration of the win the team all piled on to me. I had a rib broken to show for it that kept me out of the lineup for the rest of the series which we lost four games to two. In the spring I made the team but was never really able to swing the bat as before. I re-injured the rib in the first month of the season. The team doctors advised me to retire. Retire! At twenty-four I was going to be a retiree. As soon as Teresa heard she called to offer her sympathy and buy me a conciliatory dinner to which I conceded. While we were talking her tone became a little more reserved almost shy "I'll see you tonight then, Bye." she whispered and hung up. At dinner there was a cloud that hung over the conversation as we talked about the future, my future, and Teresa was helpful in talking through possible strategies. You could tell there was something on her mind as she rambled. Finally she came to her point. "Since you're no longer in baseball, you should have a pretty open calendar right?" I confirmed that I had no real plans, that I only had to decide if I would use my degree and get a real job or go back home and help run the farm. Teresa chuckled at me with what sounded like a mischievous grin and said "You know you owe me a favor, right". "I don't remember but if you say so." I responded, "Plus I'll do anything I can to help you, you know that, Aunt T". You could hear in her voice that Teresa was beaming, "I know you remember my filling in as your date for the prom." Pausing for a second she continued, "Well, I need you to return the favor". "I was asked to be in a wedding on Hilton Head at the end of next month, and I would like you to be my date. It's still too early for me to get back into the dating scene, I trust you, and you are the only one that I would consider." Teresa said. Then she continued, "I would consider it a real favor if you would go." How could I possibly say no, even if I wanted to? There was no way I would miss this opportunity! I was silent, but had a huge grin on my face. Teresa surmised that I was agreeable. The details were laid out and things settled. I would drive since I had bought a new car with my signing bonus just over two years ago. The room and most meals were being taken care by the bride's family and those that weren't Teresa insisted on covering as well as gas. Teresa could be stubborn when her mind was set so I didn't argue with her. All that was left was to wait and watch the calendar for June. Unlike our date years ago where I only had one restless night of anticipation, now there were weeks of it! I thought it would never come! I had tried to think of every possible event that could arise and be prepared for it. The same way I did when playing ball. I would think in every situation what I'd do if the ball came to me so I would make the play, every possible pitch that a guy could throw and where I would swing. I did not want to be surprised and "whiff" the best pitch I would see. I practiced my dancing for the reception, bought a new suit, and was measured for a tuxedo that I would pick up in Hilton Head. It was to be a fancy wedding where even the guests wore formal attire! I had all the bases covered so to speak. No way would I "whiff"! CHAPTER FIVE: Sand And Fun Teresa had suggested that we leave early in the day so we would have plenty of travel time and wouldn't have to use the interstate. That gave us the opportunity to ride with the top down, have time together, and to enjoy the mostly beautiful Carolina countryside. It was a fine trip and we got to our hotel in plenty of time to rest and clean up before the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner that began at six. Teresa had upgraded from the regular room to a two bed room bungalow so we would each have a bedroom for privacy. The bungalow was a short distance from the main building and sat overlooking the beach. It was very nice and had all of the best amenities including a garden tub and walk in shower between the two bedrooms. I felt guilty that she had spent so much knowing I would have been fine on a sleeper sofa for two nights. But it was done and paid for she said. After unpacking Teresa and I sat on the patio looking at the ocean and relaxing. She decided after a minute to give me my instructions for the weekend. "I have told these guys a good bit about you, how that you were a pro shortstop and were able to be here because of a minor injury; but not that you were my nephew. All of which is true technically" she said smiling. "You are my date" "I'm flattered that you would consider me as such." I answered feeling the blood rushing into my face. "I wouldn't have considered anyone else "she said with a trusting look and I smiled. There was a moment's pause as I got up the nerve to ask her, "Just how close are we?" "Well . . . ," she thought, "Close enough to be sharing a room". She added, "At least they think I'm moving on". "It's inevitable," I replied, "That you move on. That we all move on." In an attempt to end the painful direction of the conversation Teresa stood abruptly and said, "I need to get my shower and get dressed for the rehearsal." "One last thing," Teresa said looking back over her shoulder, "Everybody will be calling me Reese, You should too, I guess." "And I call you Drew." No one had ever called me Drew. It was always Andy or Andrew if I was in trouble. The only time I had ever been called Drew was by Teresa, or Reese I should say. She called me Drew the night of my senior prom when she kissed me goodnight. What was going on here? A bit later I heard the bathroom door open. I turned as Reese was walking from the bathroom to her bed room wrapped only in a towel. Her hair was wet and stringy her bare shoulders and legs shimmered. Even then she was beautiful. I sat in awe. She stopped and looked at me and asked what I was staring at. I blushed and said something dumb about not being used to seeing women in towels, just jocks. Reese shook her head and chuckled, "I hope you can tell a difference." She said as she closed her door behind her. I was really smooth! I showered and put on some khaki pants with a nice golf shirt and sport coat. I thought I looked good but when Reese came from her room I knew I might as well been wearing cutoffs and a tank top. She was stunning in her gown with sheer lacy cloth over a shiny gold gown. I asked if that was what she was wearing to rehearsal. Again she laughed at me and said that it was her dress for the wedding. She was just checking the fit. It had been delivered directly to her room since she was coming in from out of town. I breathed a sigh of relief as she said that she was wearing a simple sun dress to the rehearsal. Within five minutes she had changed and we were on our way down the path to the main hotel area. We met her friends in the lobby and she introduced me with her arms wrapped tightly around my right arm. Her friends were all nice enough even though I could feel that I was being scouted like I was back in school and the scouts would come watch me play. It was all cool. The wedding party went into the ball room to rehearse leaving me and a couple of the other husband/ boyfriends waiting in the lounge. Bob was the oldest of the group and he'd known Reese since high school. He confided that he envied me in that Reese was a great catch but didn't envy me in that I had really big shoes to fill compared to her late husband. I assured him that I had no intentions in trying to replace Bobby, being Drew was all that I could handle. We all had a laugh but they didn't know that being Drew was really a new challenge for me! Finally the rehearsal had come to an end and dinner was done. Everyone retreated to the lounge where there was dancing and plenty of drinks to go around. After about an hour and everyone was feeling pretty goof the DJ announced that the rest of the show would be Karaoke. Some of the singers were decent but most were really bad. Pretty much everyone that wanted to sing had so the DJ started calling on folks. It was really funny until he pointed to me and said "You there, you should sing your girl a love song!' I wanted to climb under the table, but the crowd was yelling and cheering. I looked at Reese. She shook her head and said that I didn't need to but her eyes were excited. Hating to disappoint I agreed and made my way to the stage. The DJ asked if I had anything that I wanted to sing. I didn't have a clue but said "Country I guess". He said he'd find something and in a few seconds later the music started and he handed me the microphone. Fortunately I knew the song. I looked at Reese and smiled letting her know that I wasn't angry as the first words came, "I'm not the hero that always saves the day, don't always wear a white hat, don't always know the way, I may not even be the dream you wanted to come true, but I'll always be the man in love with you . . ." I did my best and had a good time. I even made a point to sing directly at Reese at a few places playing the part of Drew as best I could. I felt bad afterward because I thought I saw a tear in her eye as I sang and I supposed she was thinking of Bobby. The party ended and we headed to our room. I had my arm around Reese as we had both been drinking most of the evening. Reese leaned into me as we made our way down the path. "That was very sweet. Thanks for singing to me." she said quietly, "You have a nice voice." "Thanks, it was kinda fun" I said, "Haven't sung in front of anybody since high school". Laughing she said, "You can sing to me anytime". I unlocked the room and we stepped inside. There was an awkwardness that had come over us. Reese looked right into my eyes, leaned forward and placed her lips on mine. The kiss wasn't a peck nor was it very long either, but was full of electricity. When she pulled away she smiled and said "Goodnight Drew." as she turned into her room closing her door behind her. I tossed and turned all night and was up before dawn the next morning. I stood in my boxer briefs watching the waves crash onto the shore when I heard Reese behind me. She quietly came to my side wrapped in her light silky robe. "Mad?" she asked. "No, why should I be?" I replied. "Well, I know you didn't sleep well," she said, "and I hope it wasn't my fault". "Why would it be your fault?" I asked her. "Most guys don't like being kissed and left standing at the door." "It's better than not being kissed at all!" With this we both began to laugh. "I'm hungry," I said, "let's go get some waffles." The day went by to quickly as Reese and I lounged around the hotel pool, Reese was beautiful anytime but in a swim suit she was awesome. Later we ate a light lunch and walked along the beach until time to dress for the wedding. We then took our showers and dressed. Of course Reese took more than twice as long as I did. CHAPTER SIX: The I Do's I was dressed and ready watching a baseball game on TV when I heard her door open. I turned toward the sound about to make a wise crack about how long she had taken when I saw her come through the door. Instead of making a wise crack, I was stunned. Reese was wearing the shiny gold gown with a garnet sheer outer layer that made the dress appear almost translucent. The gown hugged her perfectly in all of the right places accentuating the curve of her breast and hip. It had a halter tie but came straight across the top of her breast creating a hint of cleavage. It was the kind of dress where you were just waiting for the girl to bend over so you could look down it! Just a hint of eye makeup was all she wore besides lip gloss, and her hair was pulled back on the sides and parted just to one side. She was absolutely the most beautiful lady I had ever seen and I told her so. Typical to her nature she didn't believe me but thanked me for the compliment. The bride was going to be pissed when she saw Reese! I was so proud and strutted like a peacock walking beside her into the wedding venue. I missed the whole ceremony staring a Reese. I think the romance of the place and all was getting to me. But I had always had a crush on Reese. The wedding went by quickly and after a while of picture taking Reese and the rest of the bridal party made it to the reception and the festivities got under way. The entire group had a great time drinking and dancing well into the night. The reception eventually wound down, as the newlyweds had gone to their suite and the other guest went their separate way. As Reese and I made our way down the path to our bungalow, we walked and talked not being in any hurry. We were in a happy mood and not really wanting the night to end. "You had some good moves out there." I told Reese. "You too" She responded adding, "And you were making good time with the girl I saw you dancing with when I came in." "You guys took forever with those pictures; I couldn't just wait around for you forever now could I?" Then I really piled it on, "Besides, she was really hot for a 7th grader!" "You perv!" Reese yelled as she pushed against me trying to knock me over. I was much sturdier than she anticipated and she only pushed herself backwards causing her to lose her balance. She stumbled back stepping on the hem of her dress and fell on her butt in the shrubs lining the pathway. Until this point we had not noticed the misters that keep the greenery watered were on and Reese was now getting drenched by the water. She screamed and shrieked at the water yelling for me to help. I tried as best as I could to control my laughter at her situation as I went over to help. I reached down to pull Reese up but her heel had caught in the dress hem making it more difficult and time consuming. By the time we had gotten her up and back onto the path my trousers were soaked and Reese looked like she had been in the shower fully clothed. Removing her shoes to make walking easier we held each other up as we made it to the door of the bungalow. We were laughing so hard that we were in tears as we came through the door. I was suddenly somber when I saw Reese in the light. Her wet gown was clinging to her breast and the wet material had caused her nipples to respond by pushing against the dress. While the dress wasn't transparent, it didn't need to be. "I've seen that look on your face before." she said breaking the silence. "Really" I asked. "Yeah," she answered her tone even and solid. "The night of your prom when we were caught in the rain, I saw that you were looking at my breast" in a lighter voice and a smile. "You were such a gentleman that night." Before I had thought I blurted "I didn't want to be". Reese was caught off guard but for only a second as she posed, "What did you want to be? What did you want to do?" The line was crossed and I couldn't go back. Besides, I had never been less than honest with Reese about anything. "I wanted to be a man and not some inexperienced kid. I wanted to pull you into my arms and kiss you. . I wanted to touch you." I said. Reese floored me with what she said next, "Show me." I knew that this moment would never come again and I wanted it desperately, but did not want to take advantage of Reese. Her eyes pleaded. I closed the distance between us, drew her to me, and wrapped my arms around her. As I looked into her eyes I leaned into her until I felt our lips touch. I thought that I had been electrocuted but not in a painful way. I felt like our lips had been fused together and could never be parted. It was Reese who stepped things up as I felt her tongue pressing and parting our lips causing our tongues to dance in our mouths. With her now initiating our kisses I felt empowered to act freely knowing that she was feeling the same as I was. I began to move my hands up and down her exposed back letting them ease towards her bottom and to the sides of her breast. Suddenly, Reese broke the kiss and stepped back. I thought that she may have had a change of heart about what was happening between us. I waited for what seemed an eternity as she looked deep into my eyes. I had never seen her look this way before. She had a look that bordered on anticipation and pain. Finally Reese, " This is what you really wanted isn't it". She unhooked the dress and let it collapse to the floor revealing herself to me. Her breath was quick as she looked for my reaction. I was blown away with her beauty. The only word that I could form was "Wow". Her breasts were perfect! Neither large nor small, but perfectly proportioned to her size with upturned nipples that were very hard and protruding. I kissed her. I kissed from her lips to her ear, then her neck and shoulder. I kissed until I had made my way to the softness of her chest. My hands had been caressing her sides and ribs slowly rising to the underside of her breast and rubbing slow circles. Reese had had enough teasing she said as she grabbed my hands and forcefully moved them up to her breast and started plying them with my hands. I had reverted back to the high school kid who was too shy to try anything and Reese was the beautiful woman who needed a man. I needed to step up but was so overwhelmed by the events unfolding before me. Reese must have sensed this as well and helped to ease my mind. "It's okay Drew." She said. "I wanted it that night too." Reese continued, "We couldn't then, but it's alright now. Take me and make love to me, please." Tears were in her eyes and that made me want to cry. Instead I made small circles around her nipples while I kissed her for all I was worth. She returned the kiss with equal if not greater intensity. Emboldened by her words I allowed my left hand to drift southward and under the waist band of the small thong she was wearing. I felt the thin patch of hair guarding her jewel and played for a moment while she squirmed and moaned into our kiss. After a second or two she pushed my hand deeper until I felt the moistness of her slit and I began playing with her most private area. I slid a finger into the juicy opening and worked the finger in and out. Reese was writhing on the fringe of ecstasy then suddenly she broke away. With wide eyes she looked at me and said, "We can't do this!" I began to panic, wondering what was going on in her mind. Then she continued, "My knees are going to buckle, Take me to bed Drew!" I took her by the hand and led her to the bedroom turning on the bedside lamp. I sat her on the edge and she leaned back on her elbows as I knelt before her. Her eyes watched every move that I made with wonder and curiosity. Gently I reached for the waist band of the tiny undergarment covering her. I pulled the thong down as Reese lifted slightly to allow me to take the garment off, discarding it on the floor. Without prompting Reese instinctively spread herself wide for me to see her in all of her glory. She even slid a finger into her pussy and began to rub her clit. She caught me staring at her love bud and asked if I liked watching her play with herself. I answered yes and Reese smiled at me. She then said that she would show me anything I wanted to see anytime that I wanted. I bent forward and began to plant small kisses on the inside of her thigh causing her to coo and pull my head in. I was in heaven. For all of the girls I had been with in college and since, I couldn't picture any of them, remember how they smelled or remember their taste. I could only see, smell, taste, and feel Reese. Close to Home Ch. 01-07 I kissed my way up to her neatly trimmed pubes and teased her with my tongue. "Oh god that feels so good, don't stop please." she whimpered. I tried every trick I had ever heard of to please her. I didn't quite know how I was doing. She moved and moaned some but said very little until she stroked my hair and said in a loving voice, "Are you going for three?" "What do you mean?" I asked. "I've cum twice already! Come here." she said while pulling me up to her. I kissed softly then asked "Do you mind?" "No, I like the taste of my pussy on you." Then I kissed her deeply and probed her mouth with my tongue. We kissed with passion until she pulled away and spoke. "I've never had my pussy eaten by a guy in a tux before!" It was just at that moment I realized that I was still dressed. I was dressed just as I had been that night six years earlier. Reese returned to kissing me as she rolled over to straddle my waist. She kissed down to the collar of my shirt then began to unbutton it. With each button loosened she placed kisses on my newly exposed skin. She made beautifully sexy coos as she worked. When she had reached my cummerbund she spread the shirt revealing my chest in its entirety and began kissing and licking it hungrily. Her hands caressed me and her lips found my nipple causing a gloriously erotic feeling to shoot through me. I suppose there was no way that she could have missed the enormous erection that she had caused in my trousers as she straddled me. She sat up and smiled down to me saying, "You seem to like my attention." She then removed the cummerbund and unsnapped the pants as I removed the shirt. Reese stood gloriously naked at the side of the bed between my legs as she pulled the pants off. She removed the shoes and socks then smiled like an angel as she leaned to shut off the lamp. With the glow of moonlight filling the room she cooed, "That's better, now you can show me what else you wanted to do to me on prom night" as she crawled her way up my body. The kisses were like fire and she pressed her naked flesh against me while moving her hips along the erection struggling to get out of my boxer briefs. I caught my breath as I felt her slender hand reach under the waist band and wrap itself around my hardness. Reese began to stroke me as she kissed my lips and face. Then my prayers were answered. Reese rolled off of me saying, "Take off those shorts so I can taste you". No sooner had the head of my dick appeared over the waist band of my undies, that I felt the most wonderful wet and warm velvet encase me. I could hear Reese moan as she took me into her mouth. Slowly she performed the most amazing blow job that I had ever experienced. She gently stroked me with one hand, cupped and kneaded my ball sack with the other as she expertly serviced my member. It had been a while since a lady had shown that area any attention and I felt the stirrings of my orgasm quickly approaching. I told Reese that I was nearly there. To my surprise this information seemed to spur her on as she sucked and stroked me with vigor. I tried once more to warn her of the impending eruption but as my seed gushed out of me it must have cut off my brains ability to process thought or form words. A grunt was all that came as I opened my mouth. I was cumming like a volcano. Reese slid her lips up to where she only had the head of my dick in her mouth and swallowed every drop of my ejaculate. Stream after stream of the warm white cream spewed into her mouth and down her throat as she swallowed and gasped in alternate perfection. She was a natural man pleaser. My head spun from the euphoria of the climax. I hardly noticed that Reese had crawled up to my body and was lying with her head on my chest. We lay there breathing in deep rapid breaths tired but happy. "I never even dreamed that I would get this far on prom night" I thought aloud. I wondered what would come next. I knew that I wanted more as soon as I could recover but was unsure how Reese felt. I didn't have to wait long to find out. Reese spoke, "Let's get into the bed and under the covers. You're sleeping in my bed tonight. If we sleep that is". This announcement was followed by a smile and a kiss. That night Andy became Drew, Bobby had finally been laid to rest and his Reese taken care of, and a new chapter of family begun. CHAPTER SEVEN: Long Road Home The sun was shining through the balcony windows and the gulls were squawking as I awoke from the incredible wet dream from the night before. I was shaking the cobwebs loose when I recognized the sound of the running shower. I eased out of bed and made my way to the bathroom. Turning into the room I saw the most beautifully erotic thing I had ever witnessed. Reese was standing under the water washing her hair. The sudsy water cascaded down her body, down the valley between her breast, down her back and across her butt as her hands moved sensuously all over. I was standing at full attention. Out of the corner of her eye Reese saw me and turned unashamedly to face me with the biggest smile ever, "There's room enough for two. Come, let me wash you then we'll have breakfast." I was starving, but not so much that it couldn't wait a bit, so I climbed in with her. She washed me alright and took care of my special parts too. After a long hot shower we got out taking nearly as long drying as we did for the shower. Make that lunch instead of breakfast. As I was pulling on some pants to go down to the restaurant I noticed that the checkout time had already past and commented to Reese that we should hurry and get some food on the road. Reese looked at me with a devilish grin and said, "I have a confession to make. I booked the room through tonight in case we were really hung over today or had some other reason to stay." With a kiss I told her just how very bright she was and picked up the phone. When the operator came on the line I spoke, "I'd like to order room service please!" Close To Home Sometimes it's right under your nose... Anne was one of those women who oozed sex from every pore. She certainly made enough references to it, but it was more than that - it was evident in the way she talked, the way she dressed, and the way she carried herself that she liked men and everything that went with that. There were the little touches, the shaded references, the not so subtle come-ons. She was quite striking and much taller than the average woman, with long, dark red hair, dangerous curves, and a sultry voice. She had managed to hang onto much of her youth, but proudly wore the label of MILF. She reveled in being adored, and was adored by many. Jack was a few years older than her, in his mid-fifties. Although he had passed the half-century mark, he was in decent shape and maintained his condition through regular exercise and an active lifestyle. He was one of those men blessed with a good head of hair just tinged with silver, and hadn't started losing it yet. After her marriage ended he had taken on the role of helper when she needed it, fixing little things around her house and feeding her pets when she made her frequent out of town trips to visit family. She watched out for his place too, as his job had him on the road a lot. There was mutual affection and caring between them and they occasionally exchanged small gifts as tokens of their appreciation for each other. They had recently been spending time in the evening sitting on her deck, just talking and drinking wine, sharing their thoughts and opinions. They just enjoyed each other's company and were both dating other people - she often asked him to judge how she looked before she went on a date, and was comfortable enough with him that he could touch pretty much any part of her to help "adjust" things. They were well beyond tipsy this evening, and as was usually the case, inhibitions were fading away. "Do you think you'll ever marry again?" she asked. "Ever?" he answered. "That's a long time. I'm enjoying life as it is right now, and three divorces don't exactly make me a good candidate for another marriage." "Oh, stop," she replied. "You're a nice guy with a good job, and fine looking too. Eminently fuckable." The last statement almost caused him to choke on his wine, and he looked straight at her. Did she really just say that, or is that the wine talking? he thought. "Mmmm?" he said through his glass. "You heard me. You're a catch." "Well, thanks for that. I don't think of myself in those terms." "I do, and you are." She drank the last of her wine, and reaching for more found that the bottle was empty. She excused herself and went in for more. She came back and said, "I'm out of the cabernet. Unless you have some at home, we'll have to switch to the Pinot Grigio someone left here after a party." At that point he wouldn't have known the difference between a '59 Chateau Lafitte and MD 20/20, so he drunkenly nodded his assent. She was standing behind his shoulder and holding the bottle in front of him, and was close enough for him to take in all of her intoxicating fragrance. Her breasts were right at his head level. Without a word or nary a thought, he simultaneously turned his head toward her, looped his arm around her waist, and pulled her close enough to bury his face between them. Nothing more than that, no groping or grunting, just his face between her surprisingly firm boobs. He immediately sensed through his stupor that he had probably gone too far, and had in fact risked their entire friendship. Her own actions belied that, though, as she set the bottle on the table and put both of her arms around his head, drawing him tighter to her chest. For a moment they lingered like that, both aware that something was happening, something very different. He tilted his head back to look up at her at the same instant she looked down. Their lips met. Neither one of them was a stranger to lovemaking, but that first kiss was as passionate as any they had experienced. Lips pressing, tongues exploring, years of pent up passions struggling to break those final limiting bonds. Her mouth tasted of wine and tobacco - she was a smoker - and that enhanced the sensation. She finally drew her head back. "Well, well," she said with a smile. You can kiss, too. I had wondered about that." With that, she took his hands, drew him to his feet, and guided him inside without a word. It was such a natural act that no further words were necessary. They made it as far as the couch, falling onto the cushions in an intertwined mass of arms and legs. Their mouths sought the other, their hands stroked and slid and felt every inch as they rolled and kissed and tongued and their breathing grew heavy. His hands ran over her breasts, felt her neck, slid under her shirt, grabbed the cheeks of her quite amazing ass. Her hands were under his shirt, her fingernails scraping lightly over the skin of his chest and abdomen. His knee parted her legs and pressed against her crotch; she responded with a moan and a slight thrust of her hips, then pushed him backwards into a seated position. Swinging her leg over him, she straddled his lap facing him. More kissing, more groping, their bodies as close as two clothed bodies could be. She wanted more. Sitting back momentarily, she smiled and pulled her shirt over her head in one fluid movement. She expertly reached behind her back and unhooked her bra, casting it across the room. Her boobs were lovely, well shaped and sized, with small pink nipples graced with metal studs. "Pierced?" he questioned. "Interesting." "Yeah, I did it years ago because Dan wanted me to, and I've gotten used to it. And that's not all I had done," she said with a naughty leer. She pulled his head to her chest and he tongued and sucked each one in turn as she moaned with pleasure. He fingered each one to erectness and he added a light scrape of his teeth. He cupped her ass in his hands through the tight yoga pants she always wore at home. She fell upon him again and they continued where they had left off, now laying out together the length of the couch. His hands slid easily under the elastic waistband of her yoga pants to hold the cool cheeks of her ass. Her left leg was hooked over his right, and she pulled tighter against him. All of the rolling around had brought her to a position on her back, so he shifted his weight off to one side and began running his hands the length of her body. He kissed the hollow of her throat as his hand stroked her breast and pinched her nipple before sliding down her toned belly and under the waistband of the pants. Down it went, through her shaved pubic hairs, parting her pussy lips. He found that she had also had her labia pierced, and felt yet another stud there. His thumb found her clitoris while his fingers went to her hot, wet canal and entered there. His hand moved farther down as his middle finger explored further into her pussy, and she responded by pressing against it. "More, More!" she cried out, so he inserted a second and third finger, moving in and out as she thrashed on the couch. Their movements increased in tempo as her orgasm became inevitable, and she finally allowed that final release as her body quaked and she pulled him to her chest tightly. He hadn't expected her to cum that quickly. Omigawd this guy is good, she thought. No one can ever find my spot like he just did. What have I been missing all this time? She knew her body and knew she wasn't done. With barely a pause to catch her breath, she moved from under him and stood, sliding her yoga pants over her hips and down her legs along with her black thong panties, and stepped out of both. He noticed that she shaved her public hairs into a narrow strip, and that she was a true redhead. Kneeling, she quickly unbuckled his belt, unzipped his pants, and pushed them down his legs. They giggled as they realized his shoes were still on, but those and the socks slipped off easily and he joined her on the floor, both of them completely unclothed. Pushing him onto his back and kneeling next to him, she immediately grabbed his erection and took it fully between her lips, moaning as she hungrily moved it in and out of her warm, wet mouth. She would occasionally run her tongue the length of the shaft and run her tongue over his balls while stroking him with her hand, then return to swallowing as much of him as she could. She had oriented herself in such a way that her ass was right next to his head, so with gentle pressure on her leg with his hand he encouraged her to straddle his face. She placed her knees on both sides of his head and slid them back, bringing her delightful pussy down onto his mouth. With his hands hooked around her thighs, he grabbed her ass cheeks with both hands and pushed his face squarely into her pussy. His cunnilingus skills had been honed with years of practice, and he put them to good use. Running his tongue the length of her pussy, he would briefly stop to tickle her clitoris with the tip of his tongue, then back again to push it into her swollen vagina. She lifted her head from his cock to speak. "That's delightful. Where did you learn to do that?" He took a break from his own ministrations. "Just something I picked up over the years. I love to do it for you." His tongue and lips returned to her dipping pussy. She was as wet as he had ever experienced, and the taste of her pussy heightened his excitement and strengthened his erection. She responded by taking it entirely into her mouth, sucking and licking the precum at the head. For several minutes they remained in that position, his finger occasionally pressing on the brown bud of her anus. They were both near to cumming. Suddenly lifting her head, she moved off of him. "I want to feel all of you deep inside me," she whispered huskily, and taking him by the hands, stood them both up. She lowered herself onto the couch lengthwise with her head on the arm and reached her arms out for him. "Come here, stud. Fuck me silly." He slid between her legs, hooking his arms under them so her ankles rested on both his shoulders. Her eyes glinted and widened in excited anticipation as he reached down and guided his cock into her dripping pussy, slowly pushing it in its entire length until he could feel her cervix against the tip. Holding that position, he slowly rotated his hips in such a way that his cock moved in circles inside her, drawing a gasp of pleasure from her as she closed her eyes. "That feels so fucking good," she gasped. "I want all of you." In that position he was able to bury his shaft to its base, and he ever so slowly began to move in and out of her. Pausing at the end of each thrust, his pace slowly began to quicken. In and out, her ass against him and her movements mirroring his, they fell into a common rhythm. Their tempo quickened in their excitement until he was literally pounding against her with each thrust, driving himself harder and harder into her. "Omigodyesjustlikethat," she cried. "Dontstopdontstopdontstopomigodyesfuckme." Her words poured out in a torrent. With one final thrust, he mashed himself against her pussy as they erupted in simultaneous orgasms, shooting his load deep into her as she felt his balls against her ass pulsing with each spasm. He came so hard it actually hurt with each one, but maintained himself as he drained into her. She shook with delighted release. The rest of the night flowed together seamlessly. This was right, this was real, this was natural. They lay intertwined on the couch for a while, then rose together. She took him by the hand and led him to the bedroom. She stretched out on red sheets and reached for him with a contented smile. He took a few moments to drink her beauty. He had always considered her strikingly beautiful, but he realized that she was so much more than that. Her long, toned legs joined at slim hips; her flat stomach was edged by a beautifully curved waist; her breasts, so perfectly shaped and sized, still retained their youthful firmness; her long hair sprayed across her pillow and framed her amazingly unlined face with its luscious mouth. She was breathtaking. He fell into her arms and their lips met again. Feeling the entire length of her naked body against him was another revelation, almost like the first time he experienced it as a teenager all those years before. Kissing, stroking, lying with limbs enlaced and lips locked together, they spent some time just enjoying each other. At some point she rolled to face away from him but backed tightly against him in the ever-popular spooning position, with his arm over her waist and between her delightful breasts. She held his hand in hers as they both fell into a light sleep. Opening his eyes a couple of hours later, he smiled at all that had transpired. She is amazing, he thought, so unlike anyone I've ever known, and right under my nose. Her ear was slightly exposed through her hair and he lightly ran his teeth across it. She stirred and purred gently, a smile coming to her face. He began gently kissing her neck and shoulder. She turned back toward him and they shared another long, deep kiss as his hands stroked every delightful inch of her. "Sorry," he apologized. "I didn't mean to wake you." "Yes you did, and I'm glad," she smiled. "I can't believe someone like you was living right next door." She kissed him deeply. Between the kissing, the stroking, and the very nearness, she felt those deep stirrings again. Gently pushing his shoulder, she rolled him onto his back. Moving herself near his feet, she began using her mouth and hands on every inch of him. Up his thighs, flicking her tongue around his cock and licking the edges of his balls, running her mouth across his stomach. He reveled at the sight of her bare back, ass elevated, as she used her superior skills to bring his member back to life. Looking up at him with a sly smile, she straddled his body, and lowering hers, lightly scraped her studded breasts across various parts of him. As her face reached his, they kissed again as his hand sought her delicious wetness. He was fully hard again. She loved the way he used his hands in her, with just the right amount of pressure and the ability to immediately find her G spot. Her kiss intensified as he fingered her, his hand moving in and out, one finger pressing against the brown bud of her ass. Using his thumb in her pussy, he gently pressed his finger ever so slightly into her anus. She thought she would explode and a guttural moan escaped her throat. He felt her reach down to grab his shaft and moved both his hands to her hips. "Enough of that. I want you in me again." She expertly guided him into her dripping pussy, and with a sigh settled herself onto him. Sitting up, she leaned forward slightly and rested her hands on his chest. Locking her eyes on his, she began a slow, rhythmic movement up and down, bringing herself to the very end of his penis then taking it completely into her. She continued for several minutes like that. Suddenly moving herself off of him, she huskily told him, "Stand up." He obeyed immediately as she moved to her hands and knees facing away from him and backed her ass toward him. So she also likes it from behind, he thought, and I certainly want to give her what she wants. Using his left hand to gently part the cheeks of her ass, he used his right to guide his shaft into her pussy. Grasping her hips, he began to thrust into her repeatedly. As he continued to fuck her, he marveled at the sights and sensations. Her long body, with her sweetly curved hips and her ass and back before him, was truly a sight to behold. Her narrow hips were so exciting to hold; he thought she was about as perfect a woman as he had ever been with. With each thrust she shoved herself harder and hard back against him, her ass cheeks so cool and soft. There was a large mirror next to the bed, and they were reflected in all their glory in it. She apparently liked to watch herself fucking too, as he caught her gaze in the mirror and she smiled. "Oh yeah," she said. "I like to watch too." He could see her long hair and sweet tits swinging slightly with each thrust. Their pace quickened. Having cum once already, he was able to last a long time this go-around. Again and again he pumped, thrusting now gently, then harder, listening to her contented sounds and watching her face in the mirror. She came once more, pushing back against him and holding that as it washed over her. Soon after he started thrusting again, she could tell he was getting close by is rapid breathing/ Pulling forward off his cock, she spun around and sat before him, holding and rapidly stroking his shaft in front of her face. As he threw his head back and grabbed her hear between his hands, she took him into her mouth just as he shot his man juice into it. Holding him with her mouth and hand until his spasms subsided, she finally swallowed his goo and pulled him down onto her for another long, deep, meaningful kiss. She broke the kiss and looked into his eyes. "Stay the night?" she asked. "Wild horses couldn't drag me away from you," he said. Close to Home Ch. 08-13 Thank you to all who liked chapters 1-7 and I hope this is up to your expectations. Chapter 8 Your Place or Mine. The rest of the day was spent getting to know one another better. Not so much the persons that we were, we each had a good understanding of each other, but knowing the other psychically and intimately. I did not know that Reese was so ticklish around her belly or that she could be aroused to orgasm simply by rubbing her feet. She had no idea that rubbing my hair equated to giving me a sleeping pill. It was a very good day for us. That night we had dinner at a waterfront seafood restaurant where the fishing boats came by. Occasionally we would see a dolphin or two trailing behind the boats scavenging. It was really great food and very romantic. After dinner we walked along the shore taking in the glory of nature as we made our way back to our bungalow. Even after the events of the previous twenty four hours I was unsure as to Reese' intentions for sleeping arrangements and did not want to make any assumptions that would be embarrassing if they were wrong. I opened the door to the room and once inside turned Reese to face me. "Thank you for the wonderful day I've had and hope that you feel the same." I paused before saying, "I don't want the night to end, but I'm not sure what you want." I leaned in and gently kissed her lips then forehead. "If this is goodnight, I understand. I am a big boy. It's whatever you want." With a big smile and a tear in her eye Reese hugged me and said "It doesn't matter where you sleep. If you sleep in my bed I will be beside you, if you sleep in your room I'll be there, and if you don't want me to sleep with you I will sleep in the floor beside your bed to be near you." Reese was silent for a moment before softly speaking, "I don't want this night, any of this to ever end." I kissed her hard but soft for a long time each allowing our hands to roam freely and our tongues to wrestle. When the kiss broke I took her to her room leading her by the hand, "Your bed is bigger." I was awakened the next morning by the light shining in the window and the squawk of the seagulls. Rolling out of bed, I stumbled to the bathroom and took care of business. I called room service for breakfast and then stepped into the shower. It was nice to have an early riser to get the shower warmed up for you in the morning I thought. Reese kissed me good morning before handing me the soap saying we couldn't play this morning we really had to vacate the room by eleven. She chuckled at my best puppy dog face as she stepped from the shower. I finished quickly and started to dress. As I checked my cell I noticed a missed call from my dad. There were, actually, two missed calls, one last night and one at 7:30 this morning. What was my dad thinking? While Reese used the blow dryer I stepped into the living area to give him a call. I was just finishing up when Reese stepped in to hear the final stages of the call, "Yeah Dad, I will see which works best and let you know. Tell Mom how much I love her and bye" At just that moment there was a knock on the door from room service. We sat on the patio and ate quietly neither wanting our time together to end. Reese spoke a little uneasily, "How are things with you parents? Is everyone O.K.?" "They're great." I answered, "Dad has been taking care of something for me." "One of my friends is liquidating his parent's estate and had some land with a small house on it." I continued, "I guess I bought it as much to help them as to have something besides a car to show for my baseball money" Then as if to justify, "Dad thought it was the right thing to do." Walking on eggs I said, "You know; if we take the interstate we will go within twenty miles of the farm. I know everyone there would love to see you!" Reese' eyes dropped to her lap, "I know", She said slowly, "I would love to see them again too' but I just don't know. . ." Then after a moment she asked, "Would it be weird for you? Is it too soon for me to be happy in their eyes? Reese was conflicted. We finished breakfast in silence then went to our respective rooms and packed. After checking out of the hotel and refueling we headed toward home. There was about twenty or so miles to decide between the interstate or back roads. I reached for Reese hand and gave it a gentle squeeze and smiled at her. "Either way is fine". She returned the smile and asked, "What do we tell them about us?" I thought for a moment and said with all of the honesty that I could muster, "Only the truth. That you have become my dearest friend and that I don't want anything to hinder that." "Oh Drew, "she said, "I feel the same but that's not what I meant." "My family wasn't at the wedding. And have no idea that there is anything going on between us" I answered. "All of my friends said I was "glowing" this weekend and I even saw it myself in the mirror." then Reese chuckled a bit, "And your grandmother is E.T. or something!" Reese was right about Grandma. "I know", I thought aloud, "I'll do something to piss you off just before we get there. Then you can sulk at me and they'll never know a thing" We laughed hard as I turned right onto the interstate. Reese said, "I don't sulk". Chapter 9 Road Less Traveled I had been home at least every few months or so but it had been quite a while for Reese. She commented on the few changes that had been made to town and the road heading to the farm. One thing that had not changed was the weathered sign hanging at the end of the drive that read "C.B. Quinn and Sons Family Farms". Reese eyes dropped to her lap and she was quiet. I had no idea what to say so I held her hand. You can't sneak up to the old farm house as it set several hundred yards down a gravel drive from the main road. The cloud of dust announced the arrival of anyone well before they actually got to the farm. Reese and I were no exception. Grandma and Grandpa were standing at the top step waiting to see who the visitors were as we pulled up to the house... When the dust had cleared and Grandma saw Reese in the passenger's seat she ran to the car, opened the door and was giving Reese a hug even before she had been able to stand. Tears were welling up in my eyes as I saw just how happy Grandma was. Reese matched Grandmas hug and they were both an emotional mess with tears of joy flowing freely. Grandpa surprised me with a slap to the back and a hug of his own. After everyone had hugged we went inside where Grandma continued to carry on and force feed us cookies and sweet tea. Things were going well with my grandparents very happy to see Reese and catch up on what had been going on in her life. They were genuinely concerned and it was obvious that they still had a lot of love for her. The sentiment was true for Reese too but still she felt awkward being her first visit in such a while and having basically no contact with my family. There were questions that they asked about Bobby's estate and how the military had treated her. Grandpa offered to call his "friends at the Capitol" if she needed any help with anything. I thought my being there may have made her feel uncomfortable so when Grandpa asked if I wanted to see the new tractor I gladly followed him to the barn. As we were heading across the yard Grandpa put his hand on my shoulder and said, "Andy, You've seemed to have done well for yourself. Be sure to take care and don't take it all for granted, you hear me son?" Grandpa never wasted words. I was sure that these were placed there to tell me something that he thought was very important and it was my job to figure out what he really meant. He had to have known about the deal dad had been working on for me and the car and the rest of the money issues but I was beginning to wonder if Grandma was rubbing off on him. I simply nodded and smiled. Grandpa responded with "Good." and that was the end of it. The tractor was really nice and something that had been needed for a while. When we came back inside the ladies looked at us and became immediately very quiet. I had the feeling we had interrupted, and by the look on Reese face she was glad. "I have to go see mom and dad and I know they would like to see you, but I can come back and pick you up when I'm done if you'd rather." I explained to Reese. She quickly stood and walked to my side while telling me that she couldn't come all this way and not see them. After more hugs and tears and goodbyes Reese and I were headed back down the gravel road and onto the highway for the mile trip to my parents place on the other side of the farm. As soon as I had gotten into the driver's seat Reese shot me an evil look and said "I can't believe you were going to leave me there to face that inquisition alone! How could you even suggest it?" and finished with a slap to the arm. "I was only trying to make them think there wasn't anything going on with us!" I said trying to defend myself and not burst out laughing. "Too late I'm afraid." she said, "You're grandmother said that she had not seen me looking this well since my wedding day and that she was thrilled for me. I had no idea what to say!" I relayed my conversation with grandpa as we pulled into my parents drive and honked the horn. Soon we were in the midst of another 'love fest' as we greeted my Mom and Dad. Mom insisted that we have lunch with them and set about to whip up a little gourmet meal. Reese offered to help and while they got the food ready Dad and I went to his office to sign the paperwork. Lunch was great and went well with the conversation pretty light and casual. As we were finishing up Dad suggested that I ride with him to drop off the papers at the lawyer's office. I looked over at Reese who spoke up, "I'll help your mom clean up and then rest a little, and we have a long ride yet. You go on; I'm not in a hurry to get home". I thought that I saw mom smile at dad but wasn't sure. As we headed down the steps toward the truck Dad tossed the keys my way and told me to drive. You see, when dad wanted to tell me something and didn't want me to be able to do anything but listen he always made me drive. It was just his way, probably grandpas too. He didn't say a word for the first mile or so and I was actually beginning to sweat. Finally Dad asked if I had been dating anyone. That was Mom's department, he was definitely going somewhere but I didn't know where. "Son, do you know who Boaz is? He asked. I was silent, that was how this worked. "You should remember him from Sunday school." he said, "It's in the book of Ruth." "He was the kinsman redeemer," Dad continued on, "Ruth came and laid herself at his feet." "You know how we always leave that half acre in the bottoms unharvested? That's because of Boaz." He looked out the window at the traffic for a couple of minutes before adding, "Teresa is a beautiful young woman, she needs someone, and she may have laid herself before you. That's fine, good even but Andrew, do it right" As was usually the case, Dad had timed what he had to say so that he finished just as we ended the trip. On the way home Dad drove and talked about baseball. He never changed. While in town we had two stops to make. One was to my Uncle Mikes office to sign paperwork on the purchase of a piece of property and the other to real estate office to pick up the keys. Having knocked those out, Dad wanted to stop and pick up something to go with the dinner Mom had planned. We were heading back to the farm before four. It had been a good day so far and I was in a really good mood. Why did I have this nagging feeling that everything had turned serious and my world was about to change. When Dad and I walked into the house I nearly hit the floor. Mom was dressed to the nines and the house smelled like an Italian restaurant. I looked for Reese but she was nowhere in sight. I turned to Mom who was smiling openly. "I figured tonight was a time to celebrate with you becoming a home owner and having our family with us again, so I got a little carried away." she said. When Mom got carried away it meant that she cooked some fancy Italian dish her grandmother taught her and we dressed for dinner and ate in the dining room rather than the kitchen or in front of the television. Sure enough Mom told Dad to shower and dress in the clothes hanging on the bathroom door. Then she turned to me and asked if I could still wear the suit hanging in my closet or would I need to get something out of my car. I didn't know that I had a suit still hanging in my closet since had not lived there for about six years. I didn't question her and simply headed to get my suit bag from the car. When I came back Mom said, "You'll need to use our bathroom when your dad is done, Teresa is set up in your old room." "I thought that it would be best to let her sleep in the bed and you on the couch." Mom added. I must have looked a Mom funny because she said "Don't argue with me!" "I've cooked this big meal and there will be wine, and you're not going to rush through it so you can get on the road just to die when you fall asleep at the wheel!" More calmly mom said, "Enjoy tonight with your family, get a good night's rest and you can head out after breakfast in the morning." "That's Settled" she said. It was settled. She was Mom. After Dad was done showering I jumped in and within fifteen minutes he and I were dressed sitting in front of the television watching baseball. I was watching the pitcher trying to get a clue from his body language as to what pitch he was about to throw when I heard my Dad clear his throat, stand, and then say, "Wow, my dear lady you are simply beautiful." I turned as he spoke and saw Reese descending the stairs. Dad was right; she looked incredible maybe even better than the first time I saw her in that dress at the wedding. Mom gasped as she stepped in from the kitchen and Reese blushed. I am not really sure why but I seemed to be full of pride that mom and dad made over Reese like that. They already knew her and loved her why should it matter that they thought she looked so beautiful tonight? Mom broke the spell when she announced that dinner was ready. Reese offered to help but mom said everything was done. We all went into the dining room where mom had set the table with her nice china, candlelight, wine, and Chicken Parmigiana. I followed dad's lead when he held mom's chair. Reese complemented mom on the table and the preparation. She continued nearly gushing, that she was glad to dress up one more time how she hated spending that much on dress to wear only once. Then dad really surprised me when he said that he wanted to make a toast. He raised his glass and said, "To Andrew, and to becoming a homeowner, and to Teresa for gracing us once again with her beauty and presence in our home". Mom said "Here, here." Reese blushed then looked at me with a questioning look. Through dinner I explained how dad thought that having a home would be a good investment and when my friend's parents decided to relocate for their retirement that the opportunity had just seemed right and so I bought it. I explained that it was a small home on about fifteen acres and while it was simple, it had a certain charm and room for expansion if I chose. Right now the home would be a getaway spot. Reese complimented my dad for his sound advice and said that I didn't need to spend all of my money on fast cars and cheap women. Everyone laughed. We ate and laughed and talked and cried and drank for over three hours. Everything was great as mom was a wonderful cook. The time was well spent and I thanked mom for making me stay. Quietly mom excused herself and reappeared a few minute later wearing sweats and carrying a stack of sheets and blankets. She said for me to sleep here on the sofa. Then she turned to Reese and smiled saying, "Teresa I put fresh linen on Andy's bed and you can sleep there." Reese looked at me with a look of pleading. Mom though Reese was not wanting to put me out my bed. Mom said, "You are family but no lady is going to sleep on the couch with a man piled up in the bed. In this house the man sleeps on the sofa! Now that's that." "I've got it mom." I chimed in, "We're going to finish watching this show then I'll get everything settled." Reese and I went to change and met back in the den. A few minutes' later mom and dad excused themselves to turn in. Everyone said their good-nights and mom admonished me not to stay up too late with the long drive ahead. I hugged her and promised not to be up late and thanked her for the meal then they were gone. I turned to Reese and she was again giving me that pleading look. I hugged her and said "I've got it covered." I was awakened by the sound of breaking glass and feet on the stairs. I looked but saw no one. I nudged Reese who was nestled into my shoulder to wake her. "Good morning," I said with a kiss to her forehead. She smiled back at me. "I think we must have 'fallen asleep' watching television and surprised Mom when she came down." Reese smiled even more and said "I hate it when I 'fall asleep' watching T.V.". We laughed to ourselves knowingly while hearing footsteps coming down the stairs. It was Dad and he was smiling broadly. "Morning you two!" he said. Mom was just behind him but didn't speak. She did begin to sweep up the broken coffee mug. Breakfast was hearty and lively in conversation but without mention of mom finding Reese and I asleep on the couch with her in my arms. I was uneasy yet a little relieved that no one cared to discuss it. See, when something was a problem with mom and dad you never had to wait for them to get it out in the open and taken care of. That's probably the coolest thing about my parents. Friends would tell me how their parents would let things stew until it all blew up. Then things really became nasty. After breakfast Mom and Reese cleaned up the dishes and Dad and I carried the bags (Including the one Mom had made with sandwiches and drinks for the road) to the car. Once done Dad put his hand on my shoulder and asked if I had really had a good night's sleep. I looked him in the eye and assured him that I had slept like a baby. He said, "I'm glad Son, Truly glad". After a pit stop we were all hugged up and ready to go with promises to call and come back really soon. Chapter 10 To Be Determined As we pulled onto the road Reese asked how long I would make her wait to hear all about this property I had bought. I said "It's on the way to the interstate and I was going to ask if you would mind a slight detour to see it?" She slapped me on the arm assuring me she would only mind if I didn't take her to see it. The turn from the highway was only a mile or so away. The road to the house led by the lake and with the sunshine of a beautiful day it was too nice to talk so we made the less than ten minute trip in silence. I would occasionally look over at Reese who would look back and smiled like a kid going to pick out a new puppy. She was nearly giddy. I was nervous wandering how the house had changed in the years since I had seen it. When I pulled into the drive I heard a little gasp escape Reese lips, "I know this place! This is the house were you had the after party at your prom!" she exclaimed, "Oh my god!" I laughed at her as she became so animated over it all. "Yeah, it was Matt's parents get away spot. They only used it for weekends to get away from town. With his dad being the only dentist in town, he would have to leave or he would be working all of the time". I added, "This was their place to hide and he brought me a lot, with us both being without siblings, it gave us something to do." I placed the car in park and turned off the engine. I turned to say something to Reese but she was already out of the car running toward the house. I just laughed and chased after her. Close to Home Ch. 08-13 Rounding the back I saw Reese standing at the fire pit staring down towards the water. "It's absolutely spectacular", Reese cried. "If there were no house, only a tent I'd still want to wake up and look at this every morning". I added. Reese asked "Is this where we danced?" I nodded an affirmative. "Dance with me" she asked. I wrapped her in my arms and we danced to the music only we could hear. After several minutes I asked, "How would you like to see the inside?" Reese actually giggled and ran towards the door. We walked from room to room looking in the closets and just being snoops. The place was just as I remembered it. I guess you don't redecorate a house that you use so infrequently. Every room was distinctively seventies decor. Even the appliances were well past their prime. I was beginning to think this wasn't as good of a deal as it had seemed. All in all I was pleased knowing the place was solid and well built. Reese liked the layout and saw a lot of potential. "Are you moving here permanently?" Reese asked with some angst in her voice. I answered honestly, "Depends on what I decide as for as working goes. It was originally to be a get way for me, someplace for the off season. But who knows now". We had stopped at a doorway but I had not opened it. "What's in there?" Reese asked. I answered, "It leads up to the attic, but I'm not sure what's in it" I said as I opened the door and climbed the stairs. I was truly surprised by what we found at the top of the stairs. We found nothing, nothing at all. No trash, no empty boxes, nothing what so ever. I had no idea what to expect but this wasn't it. The only thing that was discernible was white chalk marks on the floor. Not like those that outline a body, but strait lines and squiggly ones that looked like an oversized blueprint. Apparently Matt's parents had planned on making living space in the attic. From the look the lines marked a living area like a sitting room, a bath, a large closet and a bedroom. Because of the way the lines were drawn they had planned on a large dormer looking out over the lake. It was a great idea and now I had the opportunity to complete it. As we walked around in the attic becoming sweaty from the heat of the non-insulated space I suggested that we take a swim to cool off. Reese was all for it so we went down and retrieved our gear from the car. After changing I lead Reese down the path to dock. We laid our towels down on the bench and as I looked up Reese had already began to run toward the water yelling "Last one in is a rotten egg!" I chased after her yelling "Cheater"! We both hit the water with an ungraceful but happy splash; we frolicked for a while before getting out lying on the dock in the sun. Happiness reigned supreme. The growling of my stomach broke the mood of serene calm as we both laughed out loud. When the hilarity subsided I checked my watch for the time. It was nearly four. "Are you hungry too? I asked. Reese admitted that her stomach too was rumbling. "Well, there are two options. " I said, "Either we dress and grab a bite at a fast food place at the interstate so we get home before it gets late. "And option two?" Reese asked. "We still have to dress, but we could head across the lake to a nice little restaurant, have dinner and come back here. Then in the morning we head home." I answered. Surprising me somewhat Reese said, "Why not dress, eat and head out from the restaurant. You could drop me at my place and be at yours by say two!" My face had betrayed me. She smiled widely as she said "I don't like that option either. Come on let's get dressed I'm really hungry!" In less than an hour we were in the car pulling up to the marina across the lake. At the door we were greeted by a girl in her late teens or early twenties who cheerfully led us to a table by the window overlooking the marina and lake asking if the seats were OK. Feeling a little mischievous I asked if table 99 was available this evening. The girl gave me a questioning look and asked if we would have a seat while she checked and quickly headed to the kitchen. We sat and awaited her return. Reese was watching the marina traffic and the birds when the young lady returned."Would you follow me please? It will be our pleasure to seat you as you wish" she said smiling broadly but with an uncertain look in her eyes. We were lead to an area around the corner from the main dining area which had only a sofa, cocktail tables, and a small dining table looking out of a floor to ceiling window. The view was much better as you didn't see the marina but only the lake. This area was much more romantic and reserved for special guest and events. As we were seated the young lady asked "Chef Bernard asks who it is that we have the pleasure of serving tonight?" carefully minding her p's and q's. Keeping the young girl I the dark, I responded, "Tell Chef Fife that we request the Eggplant soup as appetizer please." "But Sir there is no Chef Fife tonight?" she responded. "Then tell whomever is Chef for the evening, please." she nodded and quickly departed to the kitchen. It was less than fifteen seconds when we heard the kitchen door burst open and the booming voice say "Andy!" man it s good to see you! Man, you don't forget anything do you?" Then looking at Reese the chef continued, "I make one dish that worked best as a weed killer and he doesn't let me live it down." He then turns attention to me, "Who is this lovely creature in such terrible need of glasses?" I laugh at the dig as I begin to introduce, "This is my good friend Reese . . ." The chef cut me off, "From Jacksonville if I remember correctly. He never forgets food and I never forget a beautiful lady". It's my pleasure to serve you this evening, my dear." Reese blushed profusely at his obvious flirting compliments. [So you're not left wondering I'll quickly let you in on the eggplant soup joke. When we were in middle school all of the guys had to take a class teaching us how to take care of ourselves when mom wasn't around so we had to learn to sew buttons on, do laundry and of course cook. The girls had to learn how to change light bulbs or whatever. B.J. (he went by B.J. then) really liked the cooking part and became adventurous. But, he mistook egg drop soup for eggplant soup. It was terrible and when we poured it out next to the dumpster the grass there died. That was probably because it was still very hot when we poured it out. So, back to the real story.] "Reese," I began, "This is my old friend Bernard Forester, the best chef in the southeast. We called him Barney Fife in school because of his name and how skinny he was. This is a third generation family business. . ." B.J. beamed while interrupting, "Actually, fourth now as two of my brothers kids work here now". He and I chatted for a few more minutes before the waitress, his niece, took our drink orders. With a huge smile and a slap on the back B.J. excused himself to the kitchen adding "When the cats away . . ." Momentarily the niece/waitress returned with our drinks asking, "Uncle B, um Chef Bernard asks if the prime rib with steamed veggies and mashed potatoes would be alright, um, acceptable?" "Of course", Reese piped up as I nodded an affirmative. Chapter 11 Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head The meal was awesome and we had a good time talking with each other and the friends who occasionally stopped by the table. When the waitress stopped by with the check, I opened the booklet to see we had been charged a dollar for two coffees. I smiled and laid my card in the sleeve. The girl quickly returned with the booklet and a take out box. "Uncle B sent you some cheesecake for later, and thank you for coming by it was nice to meet you both." And she was gone. I left a fifty dollar tip and we headed back across the lake. As we drove the moon began to hide behind the clouds. It didn't matter the night had been such a happy time the weather was of no consequence to our mood. Reese sat closely as I drove and I felt grand with her so near. I was definitely not ready for the trip home tomorrow. At the house, we brushed our teeth after eating the cheesecake on the deck watching the clouds roll in. When we lay in the bed we kissed and drifted off to peaceful sleep. It had been an eventful day. The sound of rain gently falling and peppering the window sill awakened me in the night. I quickly realized where I was and that I was alone in the bed. So, I got up and began to look for Reese slowly making my way through the house. As I entered the kitchen I could see her standing on the deck at the railing looking out into the night. Reese had left the sliding glass door open, and I stepped through quietly enough that she did not hear my approach. I wrapped my arms around her gently nuzzling my face into her neck just behind her ear. She was not surprised by my being there and arched herself back into me wrapping her arms around mine. "What are you doing out here standing in the rain?" I asked. Reese turned in my arms to face me, placed a gentle kiss to my lips and said "waiting for you to come and find me." I was a little confused by her words until she stepped back and I saw that she was wearing my white dress shirt completely unbuttoned without anything beneath. She was beautiful in the transparent rain soaked shirt. Then she surprised me by reaching up and pushing the shirt off of her shoulders letting it fall to the deck. "Look at me Drew", she said softly, "the way I truly wish that you could have before". I was awestruck by both her beauty and her brazenness, but I did as she asked and drank her in with my eyes. After what seemed a long while but only a few seconds I again brought her to me and hugged her tight and kissed her passionately. Our tongues danced in each others mouth and our hands explored the other with her finding my hardened shaft and me her eraser like nipples. I kissed first one then the other taking it in between my lips and circling it with the tip of my tongue. My other hand had found its way to the soft tufts of wet matted hair of her pubis and I gently stroked her folds. As I was exploring she was too. She kissed my neck and chest rubbed her hand up and down my back to my butt never letting go of my erection that she was lightly caressing. Reese kissed me hard and then grabbed my hand and started toward the house pulling me along. She pulled me along all the way to the bedroom and alongside the bed where she climbed in and rolled onto her back holding her arms toward me. I fell atop her and we began to kiss fiercely. She wrapped her legs around my hips, her arms around my neck and we melded into one as I penetrated her. Reese moaned into my ear encouraging me to never stop. I promised that I would not and continued to slide between her velvety folds. I felt her vaginal muscles tighten around me as we moved. I couldn't hold on much longer and told her so. Then I felt Reese squeeze her pussy around me and her arms tighter around my neck as she told me that she didn't want me to wait. She wanted to feel me cum deep inside her and I did not disappoint her. I never wanted to disappoint Reese. We made love deep into the night and woke with coldness of dawn clinging tightly to each other. I kissed the top of her head and then her nose as she looked up at me then drifted off to sleep awhile longer. I slipped quietly from the bed and stepped out to watch the sunrise. It was a beautiful day and the sun was brilliant. You would never known that it had rained during the night had you not been awake during it. The air was crisp and clean everything was wonderful. The morning was made more perfect when I heard Reese voice. "Good morning, " she said in a gravely barely awake voice, "I'm hungry. Are there any of those sandwiches left? Breakfast was PBJ's and diet cola. The company made it perfect Chapter 12 Tidying Up After breakfast I showered and began packing and securing the house. Reese decided to get a bath while I finished up. When I had been working a while I noticed an urgent need to pee. It was then that I found a considerable problem with the house; it had just one bathroom. I really needed to go and started to just whip it out over the railing when I had another idea. I decided to test just how close Reese and I had gotten, thinking that if Reese would let me pee while she was in the tub it would mean a lot. So, I knocked. Reese answered and I asked if I could come in and she said that I could. I made sure to lift the seat and take careful aim as I emptied my bladder then set the seat back down. I looked over at Reese who quickly dropped her eyes down into the tub and began spreading white foam on her legs. Feeling my stare Reese looked up from her legs, "What are you looking at?" she asked after a few seconds, I was embarrassed because I had been caught but didn't want to turn away as her movements seemed very erotic. I felt like I was watching something that I wasn't supposed to see. "I was just watching what you were doing", I said. Reese looked at me quizzically, "Have you never seen a woman shave her legs and stuff?" "And stuff?" I asked. "Yes, stuff." she said. "What exactly is stuff?" I questioned. "Ah". She gasped, "You know, stuff!" She continued saying "Guys have junk and girls have stuff". "Oh! That stuff!" I finally got it. Reese went back to her ministrations and I watched intently. Finally, I asked if I could help. She was taken aback at my desire to shave her legs but after a moment's thought she said alright. So I knelt beside the tub and took the razor from her. I was really nervous but determined. I made some simple passes up her leg to mid thigh before getting up the nerve to venture higher. I looked up to see Reese not watching me as I expected but rather with her head back against the tub and eyes closed relaxing. Shaving her was much more erotic than watching her. Starting at the ankle on each leg and going to about an inch below her "Stuff" I shaved each leg carefully. Having done each leg, I announced that I was done. Reese raised her head to survey my handiwork and began to softly laugh. With a glint in her eye she said, "Oh no buddy, you ain't nearly done! You can't leave my stuff all stubbly like this! Get in here and finish." I was excited to think that I might get to do this but scared to death that I now had to do this. It was then that I noticed my hands were shaking like a stadium souvenir bobble head doll. I began to slide the razor up Reese leg toward her nether regions when she called out with an "Ouch!" I thought that I had cut her but she assured me that it just the razor pulling the hair. "I should've gotten a new one at the house but didn't think about it" she said. "I have a new razor if that's what we need?" I said. She nodded. So I retrieved my razor from my shaving kit asking, "Must we do this in the tub or can you lie on the bed so it's not such an odd position." Reese climbed from the tub and walked to the bed with her towel in hand. We settled in on the bed with a Reese lying on a towel, me at her side razor in hand, and a wash basin. Reese had laid her head back on the pillow waiting for me to begin but she sat upright when she heard the buzz of the little battery powered razor. "You can't use an electric razor on me you'll burn me!" she protested. "It's not 'electric' as such, it has a normal razor blade but it works better; closer" I answered. "Be careful." She warned as I touched her sensitive skin with the blade. At the first touch Reese's eyes lit up at the feel of the vibrating razor, and while she said nothing she obviously liked the sensation. I finished shaving her bikini line or landing strip as she lay there in a sexually charged bliss. I myself was highly aroused and just a bit on edge. I decided to be a little mischievous. I rotated the razor over so the blades were opposite her skin and touched the back of the razor handle to the protruding lips of her vagina. I expected her to jump and protest. What did happen shocked, amazed, and thrilled me. Reese let out a gentle moan as she let her legs fall open and raised her hips to increase the pressure of the razor against her. I smiled and asked if she enjoyed the feeling. She only looked at me through glassy eyes and whimpered softly as she took hold of my hand and guided my movements. Together we rubbed the vibrating razor all over her pubis and before we were done she was completely bare and in orgasmic bliss. I then slowly crawled up her body placing kisses as I went stopping to pay very close attention to her breasts. Her nipples were hard and begging to be sucked; so I did. All the while I had begun to slowly press the end of the razor handle against the opening of her sweet pussy. As the handle entered her she let out a grunt and began grabbing hold off the bed sheet bucking her hips toward the razor as she came hard. Reese looked at me as she came down from the orgasm and said in a panting voice, "You must think I'm a terrible slut." "I think you are the most terribly sexy awesomely wonderful woman I have ever known" was my answer. Reese rolled on top of me and kissed me deeply while she buried me deeply within her to show her gratitude for the shave that I had given her. Little did she know the thrill I had received of her letting me watch her. We were packed and on the road to Raleigh in just a bit. We stopped for gas and lunch and talked of what lay ahead. My head was reeling with questions that I wanted to have answered. Some by Reese and some by I wasn't sure who, me I guess. I was filled with happiness but burdened by a bit of uncertainty. Things had forever changed between Reese and me but I wanted to be sure that we wanted the same things. That was made more difficult however because I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted. I did know three things: I never wanted to see Reese hurt in any way, I wanted her to be happy and taken care of, and I wanted to be with her again and again. Had I fallen in love with her or was it simply lust. I didn't think it was lust but I couldn't be sure. There was so much still hanging between us. I didn't even know her full name, or her parent's names, or what size shoe she wore. Not that those were the kinds of things that were truly important, only that there was so much yet to know. "You must have fallen into a mighty deep well" she said breaking the silence and waking me from my coma of thought. "You look way too serious. It's kind of scary after the way things have been going." "Yeah," I replied, "I was thinking of what I don't know about you." "Oh shit, that is deep" she chuckled at me. "What do you want to know? I'm an open book." "OK," I started, "what size shoe do you wear?" Reese looked aghast, "NONE OF YOUR BUSSINESS! Are you making fun of my feet?" Unsure if see were serious in her hurt I broached a different question. "Then what's your middle name?" I tried. After a bit of a pause Reese whispered "Size 6." "That's an odd middle name." I pushed my luck. Reese cut her eyes at me while speaking, "I was named after my grandmother. My great grandpa was a preacher; her name was Naomi Ruth Jenkins. I'm Teresa after my mother's mother, my name is Teresa Ruth" "It's perfect" I assured her. "My name is Andrew Cole, after. . ." Reese cut me off, "I know what your name is and who it's after." Only guys forget to find that stuff out" she laughed. "Is that all you were thinking about?" she asked. Reese grabbed my hand and squeezed it tighter than I thought she could. "We need to talk." I said. Chapter 13 Confession Is Good For The Soul. As we continued up the interstate I explained to Reese that I believed that I had fallen for her the second that I saw her on the train platform, and how guilty I felt because of it. I told her what Uncle Bobby had said when I saw him at the hospital. I told Reese how that I wanted to take care of her and be there for her but was so unsure whether or not it was right to feel about her as I did. Was it possible she could feel the same? I explained that I was so happy and proud being "Drew" that I never wanted to be "Andy" again and did not want her to become "Aunt Teresa". Close to Home Ch. 08-13 Tears were rolling down her face as she looked at me so tenderly and she sobbed softly. Finally she spoke. Reese told me how guilty she had felt about leading me on prom night and the loneliness of Bobby being gone. "You know that Bobby was my first. And I never planned on another." Reese was again sobbing, "It was good but not perfect, and we had to make ourselves defy the odds of military marriages. Bobby loved the Marines and wanted to retire as a Marine." She sat in the passenger seat and sobbed. I felt like a heel for bring up those memories. Through her tears she continued, "But, I wanted to be with him and raise our kids together. It was hard waiting for him to move up and get a permanent station." She was finished for a while. Then she told me about the night Bobby died. She told me how Bobby had whispered something to me as I hugged him just before leaving the room the last time I saw him. How that she had asked Bobby what he had said. Bobby told her that I had promised to take care of her and be there for her no matter what. I was truly blown away by what she said next. "It's scary I know, but there are those that, I think, will be happy for both of us" she said, "When you left with Mr. Quinn the other day, as soon as the door closed your grandmother looked at me and said 'That boy looks at you just like Bobby did, maybe stronger. But that's OK'. Her smile was so sweet that I nearly cried. "What could I say to your grandma?" "Reese," I started slowly, "I don't know what to say." "Andrew, I love you. I had fallen in love with you before I asked you to come on this trip. Not to trap you. You can go as soon as you drop me off at my place. I wanted to give you something that let you know how special you are. I wanted to give you that first night on the island but I chickened out. I saw how unfair it was to you." She was sobbing. "Then that second night it just happened. I couldn't believe how good it was with you, and every time since. Thank you for all that you have done for me. I love you but you do not owe me anything". "I don't know how to react." I stammered, "I've had two girlfriends that I loved in my entire life. There was Janet in high school and the last few days with you. I love you too, and not like family. I don't ever want to be like 'just family' with you. How does this work?" "Step by step, minute by minute" was Reese response. Always the philosopher I thought. We rode on in silence. When I turned into Reese apartment complex the uneasiness was palpable. As I stopped the car I looked to Reese and asked "When do you have to be back at work?" For the last few miles had been thinking and had decided on a plan. "August" she answered with a smile. "You don't have meetings or something?" , I asked. Reese had a look of seriousness and resolve,"I have to call them by the last week of July to set up an appointment to sign an annual contract. The school wants me back but I am not obligated until a contract is signed." "I am under contract until the team doctor's release me. That will be whenever I decide to take the retirement package or an office job with the team as a salesman or promotions or something." I added," but that could mean a move either up or down". I sat looking into her eyes and I held her hand as I said, "I wanted to see if you would move into the house with me through the summer and figure out what we wanted". I asked a little apprehensively, hopefully. I did not want her to think I only wanted a 'shack up' for the summer so I added "We'll surely know each other better and what we both want by then." I already knew what I wanted. I wanted to make a home there with Reese, marry and live there all of the time. We could make the renovations that Matt's parents had drawn and have a very nice place for the two of us and if there were more down the road we could even make it bigger. But, that was getting way ahead of myself as I hadn't gotten her response. I didn't have to wait very long for an answer. Reese lit up like the sun, leaned over and gave a big kiss before saying "I'll have to throw some things into a bag for the stay and make a few calls so people will know where I am, and go by the post office and forward my mail, and then we can head out." To say she was agreeable would be putting it mildly. I was just as happy. After packing both our cars full and gassing up we were headed right back down the interstate to the lake house by late evening. We got there just about time for bed so we piled everything into the living room floor and climbed into bed. It felt right. We drifted off to sleep in each others arms both too tired from the day for anything else. I was awakened by a loud clap of thunder and a screech from Reese as a storm had come up over the lake. Putting my arms around her and holding her tight I whispered, "It's just a storm." Reese looked at me with a sexy little grin while reaching her hand down my thigh, "I can never sleep through thunderstorms."